PIEZO channels PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 are the newly identified mechanosensitive, non-selective cation channels permeable to Ca2+. In higher vertebrates, PIEZO1 expresses ubiquitously in most of the tissues and cells while PIEZO2 expresses more specifically in the peripheral sensory neurons. PIEZO channels contribute to a wide range of biological behaviors and developmental processes, therefore driving a significant attention in the effort to understand their molecular properties. One prominent property of PIEZO channels is their rapid inactivation, which manifests itself as a decrease of channel open probability in the presence of a sustained mechanical stimulus. Lack of the PIEZO channel inactivation is linked to various mechanopathologies emphasizing the significance of studying this PIEZO channel property and the factors affecting it. In the present review, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the PIEZO channel inactivation, its modulation by interaction of the channels with lipids and/or proteins, and how the changes of PIEZO inactivation by the channel mutations can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans.

Background: Waste management is one of the challenges facing cities around the world. In Africa, where the increase in the urban population and the growing demand for consumer goods are driving up the rate of waste production, waste collection and disposal are posing serious problems, not only for municipal and central government officials, but also and above all for the local population. In Togo, and more specifically in the city of Lomé and the surrounding area (Greater Lomé), as in other African cities, the average annual production is estimated at 305340 tonnes, of which 89428 tonnes are collected and buried, giving a collection rate of 29.29%. A tiny proportion of the waste collected (9,000 tonnes, or 2.95%) is recycled as compost by associations and/or NGOs. The three key players who share this task are the local authority, the formal sector and the informal sector. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the current state of waste management in Greater Lomé, which poses a major threat to public health, socio-economic development and the environment. Material and methods: To this end, documentary research and surveys carried out on two types of waste management stakeholder, namely formal and informal, in the five districts of Greater Lomé enabled us to make a general diagnosis. Results: However, despite the efforts made by the stakeholders involved in waste management, it appears that the transformation of solid household waste into compost remains the most suitable endogenous method for recovering fermentable waste and returning it to the soil, in order to improve the organization of waste management in the city of Lomé, reduce the quantity of waste to be landfilled and clean up the city. KEYWORDS: Urban waste, management, composting, collection, treatment, autonomous district of Greater Lomé.

Hydrogels can be considered as mimics of extracellular matrix (ECM).Cytoskeleton through integrins is connected with ECM and cytoskeleton tension depends on ECM stiffness.A number of age-related diseases depend on cellular processes related with cytoskeleton function.Some examples of cancer initiation and progression and heart disease in relationship with ECM stiffness has been analysed.Incorporation of rigid particles in ECM can increase ECM stifness and to promote formation of internal residual stresses. Water migration, changes of water binding energy to biomactomolecules, changes of the state of water from tightly bound water to free and loosely bound water changes stiffness of ECM. Risks related with rigid particles incorporation into ECM have been also iscussed.

Earthworms are iteroparous organisms with indeterminate growth, i.e. they continue to increase in size throughout their life and after completion of sexual development. Terrestrial oligochaetes vary greatly in size. Depending on the species, adult earthworms can reach between 10 mm and 3 m in length and between <1 mm and >25 mm in width, with most being of length 5-15 cm. Among the more than 7000 species described to date, very few (~20) reach lengths greater than 1 m. The longest earthworm on record is Amynthas mekongianus, which is found in the mud banks of the Mekong River in Southeast Asia and which reaches almost 3 m in length. It is about the same size as Megascolides australis, the ‘Giant Gippsland Earthworm’. These atypically giant earthworm species remain a scientific curiosity in terms of their biology, but they cannot be considered cases of gigantism. Gigantism occurs when organisms are much larger than normal or exhibit excessive growth. Earthworms obtain energy from the organic matter on which they feed, and their growth mainly depends on the quality of the resource and on the species, as well as on food availability, environmental factors, which can directly or indirectly affect growth by modifying food availability, and other factors such as competition. This is particularly evident in earthworms, which display indeterminate growth and large species-dependent variations in size. The biology, life cycle and growth and reproduction rates of Eisenia fetida (Savigny 1826) and Eisenia andrei (Bouché 1972), the earthworm species most commonly used in vermicomposting and vermiculture, have been widely reported. Here we present details of the enormous growth of individual specimens of Eisenia andrei and Dendrobaena hortensis reared under particular culture conditions and fed a special diet. Individuals almost 20 times the average weight of individuals of the species have been obtained. Possible explanations for this interesting phenomenon are discussed.

Strandings are one of the most worrying issues in relation to the conservation of cetacean species, and in the case of Chile, due to its geography and large extension of the coastline, monitoring and access to these events is difficult, making their study more complex. Chile has a shortage of specialized scientific forensic research facilities for cetacean; however, for this study it was able to collect data recorded from official institutions and sporadic scientific biological sampling oriented to investigate the causes of death or stranding. According to the Chilean government official database, we described that the main causes of unusual mortality events (UME) and mass strandings from year 2015 and 2016 were acute poisoning by biotoxin and trauma to the auditory complex, respectively, while individual strandings would have their causes in anthropogenic activities such as entanglements in fishing an aquaculture gear and collisions with vessels. The predominant species in mass strandings was the sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis). The geographical area of greatest prominence in mass strandings was the Aysén Region in the Central Patagonia of Chile, while the species mostly involved in individual strandings along the south-central, central, and northern coast of Chile was the small porpoise (Phocoena spinipinnis). The most common gross pathological findings were advance decay of the carcasses and nonspecific wounds of different nature, difficult to associate with possible causes of death without further histopathological studies.

Large volume bone defect regeneration is complex and demands time to complete. Several regeneration phases with unique characteristics including immune responses follow, overlap, and interdepend on each other and, if successful, lead to the regeneration of the organ bone's form and function. However, during traumatic, infectious, or neoplastic clinical cases, the intrinsic bone regeneration capacity may exceed, and surgical intervention is indicated. Scaffold-guided bone regeneration (SGBR) has recently shown efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies. To investigate different SGBR strategies over periods of up to 3 years we have established a well characterized large segmental tibial bone defect ovine model, for which we have developed and optimized immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocols. We present an overview of the immunohistochemical characterization of different experimental groups in which all ovine segmental defects were treated with a bone grafting technique combined with a three-dimensionally printed medical-grade polycaprolactone-tricalcium phosphate (mPCL-TCP) scaffold. The qualitative data set is based on osteoimmunological findings gained from IHC analyses of over >350 sheep surgeries over the past two decades. Our systematic and standardized IHC protocols enabled us to gain further insight into the complex and long-drawn-out bone regeneration processes, which ultimately proved to be a critical element for successful translational research.

Abstract Plant uptake and assimilation of essential nitrogen compounds from the soil are mainly in the form of nitrate and ammonium ions. Plant nitrate transporters (NRTs) play a crucial role in nitrate uptake from the soil into the roots. NRT structural analysis reveals the mechanisms by which these transporters function. Similarly, plant ammonium transporters (AMTs) mediate the uptake of ammonium ions, and their structural analysis has provided valuable information on their mechanisms. After nitrogen uptake by plant roots, the nitrogen metabolism pathway involves the incorporation of nitrogen into organic compounds. Glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate synthase (GoGAT) are the master players in this pathway. They work together to convert ammonium ions into glutamine and glutamate, respectively. Different isoforms of GS and GoGAT exist, enabling plants to fine-tune nitrogen metabolism based on environmental cues. Under severe abiotic stress conditions, nitric oxide (NO) has been found to enhance plant survival under drought. Furthermore, the interaction between salinity stress and nitrogen availability in plants has been studied, with NO identified as a potential mediator of responses to salt stress. On the other hand, excessive use of nitrate fertilizers can lead to health and environmental issues. Therefore, alternative strategies, such as establishing nitrogen fixation in plants through diazotrophic microbiota, have been explored to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Ultimately, genomics can identify new genes related to nitrogen fixation, which could be harnessed to improve plant productivity. By deciphering the genetic basis of nitrogen-fixing traits, researchers aim to develop crops that efficiently utilize nitrogen from the environment.

Fat and oils plays one of the major roles in Sri Lankan modern unhealthy diet. The study was guided to collect, analyze, and interpret data about the awareness of general community on edible fat and oil products available in the market and their knowledge about healthy ways of usage. A total of 250 purchasing women were surveyed with a welldeveloped questionnaire. Results revealed that, Coconut oil (71%) is the leading supermarket oil product purchased and consumption of animal fats and oil are very limited (<3%) in Kandy. Educational level affects significantly (P<0.05) on purchasing behavior. Regardless of educational level and working status, price (73%) will be the most significant factor look at during purchasing edible oils. Total of 57% of purchasing women use the same oil for both deep frying and stir frying. Besides, 43% of women keep two different types. From all respondents, 83% use oil more than one time after first cooking. Working women prefer internet and facebook (38%) as the major food related information searching resource, while newspapers (35%) are among non-working women. All in all, lowering the price of healthy fat and community awareness programs will encourage healthy fat and oil purchasing behavior in Sri Lanka.

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent and lipid peroxidation-driven cell death cascade, occurring when there is an imbalance of redox homeostasis in the cell. Nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (NFE2L2, also known as NRF2) is key for cellular antioxidant responses, which promotes downstream gene transcription by binding to their antioxidant response elements (AREs). Numerous studies suggest that NRF2 assumes an extremely important role in the regulation of ferroptosis, for its various functions on iron, lipid and amino acid metabolism and so on. Many pathological states are relevant to ferroptosis. In cancer cells, ferroptosis is frequently found abnormal suppression. While during tissue damages, ferroptosis is recurrently promoted, resulting in a large number of cell deaths and ultimately loss of the functions of the corresponding organs. Therefore, targeting NRF2-related signaling pathways, to induce or inhibit ferroptosis, has become a great potential therapy for combating cancers, as well as preventing neurodegenerative and ischemic diseases. In this review, a brief overview of the research process of ferroptosis over the past decade will be presented. In particular, the mechanisms of ferroptosis and a focus on the regulation of ferroptosis by NRF2 will be discussed. Finally, the review will briefly list some clinical applications of targeting the NRF2 signaling pathway in the treatment of diseases.

Cellular biomolecular condensates termed ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules often are enriched in messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules relative to the surrounding cytoplasm. Yet, the spatial localization and diffusion of mRNAs in close proximity to phase separated RNP granules is not well understood. In this study, we performed single molecule fluorescence imaging experiments of mRNAs in live cells in the presence of two types of RNP granules, stress granules (SG) and processing bodies (PB), which are distinct in their molecular composition and function. We developed a photobleaching- and noise-corrected colocalization imaging algorithm that was employed to determine the accurate positions of individual mRNAs relative to the granule’s boundaries. We found that mRNAs are often localized at granule boundaries, an observation consistent with recently published data. We suggest that mRNA molecules become spontaneously confined at the RNP granule boundary similar to the adsorption of polymer molecules at liquid-liquid interfaces, which is observed in various technological and biological processes. We also suggest that this confinement could be due to a combination of intermolecular interactions associated with, first, the screening of a portion of the RNP granule interface by the polymer and, second, electrostatic interactions due to a strong electric field induced by a Donnan potential generated across the thin interface.

Kiwifruits are often exposed to various temperature fluctuation (TF) during postharvest storage. To evaluate the effect of TF on the qualities of kiwifruits, fruits were stored at 2 ºC, 2 ºC or 5 ºC (TF2ºC-5ºC), 2 ºC or 7 ºC (TF2ºC-7ºC), alternating every 12 h. Observations revealed that kiwifruits stored at constant 2 °C showed the lowest loss of weight and vitamin C due to the minimum ethylene production and respiratory rate compared to that of TF2ºC-5ºC and TF2ºC-7ºC. Moreover, the results of RT-qPCR verifed that the expression of genes encoding polygalacturonase, β-galacturonidase, and pectin methyl esterase was significantly increased by the treatment of TF. Hence, TF accelerated the degradation of the cell walls, softening, translucency and relative conductivity of the flesh of kiwifruits. Besides, the impact of TF2ºC-7ºC on kiwifruits was more significant relative to TF2ºC-5ºC. The present study provides a theoretical basis for kiwifruit during cold storage.

Before the green revolution, crude plant materials and plant-extracts were used for crop protection. However, their use was swiftly replaced by synthetic pesticides after World War II due to increased demand for more effective pesticides in intensified farming systems. The 20th century saw a steady increase in the use of synthetic pesticides until the mid-21st century when the world started to realize the negative impact of synthetic pesticides. The increased environmental awareness and the need for safe human food led to increased research and development of biopesticides as crop protection options in modern agriculture. This paper brings into perspective the global history of the application and use of botanical biopesticides in crop production. It also highlights the research progress, product development and registration challenges, and opportunities for business and adoption at the farm level in Kenya.

Telomeres are structures at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes that help maintain genomic stability. During aging, telomere length gradually shortens, producing short telomeres, which are considered markers of premature cellular senescence. This is believed to contribute to age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and based on this, several studies have hypothesized that telomere shortening may characterize AD. Current research, however, has been inconclusive regarding the direction of the association between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and disease risk. We assessed the association between LTL and AD in a retrospective case-control study of a sample of 255 unrelated patients with late-onset AD (LOAD), including 120 sporadic cases and 135 with positive family history for LOAD, and a group of 279 cognitively healthy unrelated controls, which were all from Calabria, a region from south Italy. Following regression analysis, telomeres were found to be significantly shorter in LOAD cases than in controls (p<0.001 for both sporadic and familial cases). Interestingly, LTL were associated to disease risk independently of the presence of conventional risk factors (e.g., age, sex, MMSE scores, presence of the APOE-ε4 allele). Altogether, our findings lend support to the notion that LTL shortening may be an indicator of the patho-genesis of LOAD.

In this study, we report the first outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A H5N8, clade 2.3.4.4b in Kosovo on May 19, 2021. The outbreak consisted of three temporal phases: May–June 2021, September–November 2021, and January–May 2022. In total, 32 backyard and 10 commercial holdings tested positive for the virus, affecting 179,198 poultry. Interestingly, the third and last phase of the outbreak coincided with the massive H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b epidemic in Europe. Phylogenetic analyses of 28 viral strains from Kosovo revealed that they were closely related to the H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4.b viruses that have been circulating in Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, and Russia in early 2021. Whole genome sequencing of the 25 and partial sequencing of 3 H5N8 viruses from Kosovo showed high nucleotide identity, forming a distinctive cluster and suggesting a single introduction. The results of the network analysis were in accordance with the three epidemic waves and suggested that the viral diffusion could have been caused by secondary spreads among farms and/or different introductions of the same virus from wild birds. The persistent circulation of the same virus over a one-year period highlights the potential risk of the virus becoming endemic, especially in settings with non-adequate biosecurity.

The experiment was carried out during October 2022 to January 2023 at Mae Hea Agricultural Research, Demonstration and Training Center, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand; latitude: 18° 44′ 36″ North, Longitude: 98° 57′ 50″ East, and an al-titude 304 msl. Evaporative greenhouse, 9.6 x 40 square meters, with 8 planting troughs was prepared, Sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) system were installed to monitor continuously vital parameters, collect data, and send timely alerts to facilitate problem resolution. The data were displayed via IoT platform dashboard. An average air temperature, light intensity, media moisture and CO2 concentration in the greenhouse during 4 months was 21.1 ◦C, 12,948 Lux, 2 kPa and 495 ppm, respectively. The average maximum temperature in the evaporative greenhouse was 29.6 ◦C, which 4.2 ◦C lower than outside; 33.8 ◦C. Root-zone cooling of the strawberry planting was de-signed as factorial 3x4 in completely randomized design (CRD). Factor A was the short-day strawberry cultivars: 1) “Pharachatan 88” 2) “Pharachatan 80” and 3) “Akihime”. Factor B was the root-zone cooling treatments: 1) normal water dripping (NWD) 2) cold water dripping (CWD) 3) cold water dripping + cold water piping (CWD+CWP) and 4) normal water dripping + cold water piping (NWD+CWP). The results revealed that there was an interaction between the two factors on canopy width, leave width, crown diameter, number of flowers, fruit qualities and fruit color, whereas plant height, leaves length, SPAD and number of inflorescences were not affected by the interaction between the two factors. Four months after the experiment, the root-zone cooling treatments had no effect on chlorophyll contents, whereas “Pharachatan 80” had lower chlorophyll content than others. The CWD+CWP treatment could reduce 2 °C of root-zone temperature and leading to promote vegetative and reproductive growth in strawberry plants. Anyhow, without the root-zone cooling treatment, “Akihime”and “Pharachatan 88” still could produce flowers and yield, but “Pharachatan 80” could not. Furthermore, “Akihime” seemed appreciable in flowering, TSS and yield as compared to others.

Cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), which may occur in various severities, represents one of the commonest and most disabling non-motor manifestations during the course of the disease, causing a negative impact on patients’ quality of life. Eventually, it becomes a burden for the family members and/or the caregivers of patients, as it progresses to PD dementia. Current pharmacological treatments for cognitive impairment in PD exhibit partial efficacy, while novel effective therapeutic strategies are required. Accumulating preclinical and clinical evidence shows that several agents may provide beneficial effects on patients with PD and cognitive impairment, including ceftriaxone, ambroxol, intranasal insulin, nilotinib, atomoxetine, mevidalen, blarcamesine, prasinezumab, SYN120, ENT-01, NYX-458, GRF6021, fosgonimeton, INT-777, Neuropeptide S, silibinin, osmotin, cordycepin, huperzine A, fibroblast growth factor 21, Poloxamer 188, ginsenoside Rb1, thioredoxin-1, tangeretin, istradefylline, and Eugenia uniflora. Potential underlying mechanisms include the inhibition of a-synuclein aggregation, improvement of mitochondrial function, regulation of synaptic plasticity, impact on gut-brain axis, modulation of neuroinflammation, upregulation of neurotrophic factors, as well as cholinergic, dopaminergic, serotoninergic and norepinephrine neurotransmission. In this overview, we aim to cover the clinical aspects of PD associated cognitive impairment, highlighting recent evidence on emerging treatment approaches that are currently under investigation at a preclinical and clinical level.

Coffee processing generates a huge amount of waste which contains many natural products. Here, we report the discovery of a panel novel cell-penetrating and metal-ion binding microproteins designated coffeetide cC1a-c and cL1-6 from the husk of two popular coffee plants, Coffea canephora and Coffea liberica, respectively. Combining sequence determination and database search, we showed that the prototypic coffeetide cC1a is a 37-residue, eight-cysteine microprotein with a hevein-like cysteine motif but without a chitin-binding domain. NMR determination of cC1a revealed a compact structure that confers it resistance to heat and proteolytic degradation. Disulfide mapping together with chemical synthesis revealed that cC1a has a ginsentide-like, and not a hevein-like, disulfide connectivity. In addition, transcriptomic analysis showed that the 98-residue micrcoproten-like coffeetide precursor contains a three-domain arrangement like ginsentide precursors. Molecular modeling together with experimental validation revealed a Mg2+ and Fe3+ binding pocket at the N-terminus formed by three glutamic acids. Importantly, cC1a is amphipathic with a continuous stretch of 19 apolar amino acids, and which enables its cell penetration to target intracellular proteins, despite being highly negatively charged. Our findings suggest that coffee by-products could provide a source of ginsentide-like bioactive peptides that have potential to target intracellular proteins.

We demonstrate the use of a nanotechnology-based approach for the investigation of enzymatic activity of a single molecule of horseradish peroxidase with a solid-state nanopore. The artificial 5 nm solid-state nanopore has been formed in a 40-nm-thick silicon nitride structure. Single molecule of HRP has been entrapped into the nanopore. The activity of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme molecule inserted in the nanopore has been monitored by recording the time dependence of the ion current through the nanopore in the course of the reaction of 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) oxidation reaction. We have found that in the process of ABTS oxidation in the presence of 2.5 mM hydrogen peroxide, individual HRP enzyme molecules are able to retain activity for approximately 700 seconds before a decrease in the ion current through the nanopore, which can be explained by structural changes of the enzyme.

Goat milk starts to be gradually the preferred milk by consumers worldwide and also in Slovakia. It is also demanded as functional and/or nutraceutical drink as it is rich in bioactive components. Goat milk contains complex of microbiota among which the phylum Firmicutes have been occurred with abundance 20.5 %. Among individual representatives of this phylum are involved also lacticaseibacilli. This study has been focused on bacteriocin-producing, beneficial strain Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LPa 12/1 isolated from raw goat milk and its potential to be additive in dairy products. Based on safety testing of bacteriocin-producing LPa 12/1 strain using BALB/c mice, it looks as safe. Even increase tendency in phagocytic activity in blood of mice was noted after LPa 12/1 strain application. Encapsulated form of LPa 12/1 strain producing thermo-stable bacteriocin seems to be a suitable to supplement dairy products. The strain colonized better ewe-goat milk yoghurt (up to 6.1 cfu/g log 10) than cow milk yoghurt (almost 5.0 cfu/g log 10). Although specific organoleptic tests were not involved, cow milk yoghurts remained in better consistency after LPa 12/1 strain supplementation in comparison with ewe-goat milk yoghurts. LPa 12/1 strain may be supposed as a new potential additive in dairy products/yoghurts.

Laccases are versatile and relatively accessible catalysts with practical/industrial applications. Their proteic nature entails limited stability under non-native conditions, especially such as those that would be required for industrial applications. Here, derivatization of a laccase from Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is reported, using an (methyl-PEG12)3-PEG4) N-succinimide ester in order to improve the thermostability of the enzyme. The PEGylated laccase is characterized using gel electrophoresis, size-exclusion chromatography, catalytic parameters and thermal stability. A 50% increase in residual activity after incubation at 50°C for up to two hours was achieved for the PEGylated laccase compared to the native enzyme.

Genetic adaptation of Hermetia illucens (BSF) to suboptimal single sourced wastes can open new perspectives for insect production. Here, four replicate BSF lines were maintained on a single sourced, low-quality wheat bran diet (WB) or on a high-quality chicken feed diet (CF) for 13 generations. We continuously evaluated evolutionary responses in several performance traits to rearing at the two diets. Subsequently, we tested responses to interchanged diets, i.e. of larvae that had been adapted to low-quality feed and to high quality feed and vice versa to evaluate costs associated with diet adaptation. BSF were found to experience rapid adaptation to the diet composition. While performances on WB diet were always inferior to CF diet, the adaptive re-sponses were stronger to the former diet. This stronger response was likely due to stronger se-lection pressure experienced by BSF fed on the low-quality single sourced diet. The interchanged diet experiment found no costs associated with diet adaptation but confirmed diet adaptation for the larval biomass and insect frass traits for the WB diet treatment. Our results revealed that BSF can rapidly adapt to diet through evolutionary responses, which has potential to be utilized to produce lines tailored to specific diets.

Since 2017, a fishing moratorium has been enforced in Lake Honghu as part of Chang-Jiang’s biodiversity conservation strategy. However, given that the lake is a semi-closed aquatic ecosystem, and no longer serves as a habitat for certain fishes of the mid-lower Chang-Jiang basin, the efficacy of this moratorium remains uncertain. To address the question from a trophic ecology perspective, a stomach content analysis was performed on captured anchovies C. brachygnathus, a current predominant species in Lake Honghu, from November 2020 to October 2021. Results showed that copepods, shrimps, and macrophytes were the main components of this anchovy's diet, and had size-related shifts in diets. The dominance of C. brachygnathus, a pelagic-littoral omnivore in this lake, implies a lacustrine environment shift triggered by continued human disturbances. The utilization of macrophytes as the main food items by large-sized anchovies of Lake Honghu partially contributed to the rapid degradation of submerged vegetation. This highlights the need to remove large-sized individuals of C. brachygnathus and Carassius auratus, another benthic-omnivorous dominant fish, in order to effectively restore the aquatic vegetation and ecosystem of Lake Honghu. The current implementation of fishing moratoriums in subtropical shallow floodplain lakes such as Lake Honghu should be reviewed critically.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) processing generates a by-product (CB) with potential for health benefits and could be a favorable ingredient to be added to a probiotic food matrix. This study aimed to assess the functional attributes of CB in fermented milk with a probiotic and a starter culture using in vitro- gastrointestinal conditions. Using a standardized fermentability assay, two strains more adapted to the dehydrated CB were chosen and applied in: Test Formulation (TF, with CB) and Control Formulation (CF, without CB). TF and CF were fermented by the probiotic strain Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei F19® and the starter Streptococcus thermophilus ST-M6®. During a 28-day refrigerated (6-8 °C) shelf-life study, both strains used in CF and TF were resistant and maintained a population above 8.0 log CFU/mL in the fermented milk. TF had significant increase in total phenolic compounds and greater antioxidant potential during shelf life, along with improved survival of F19® after in vitro-simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The cashew by-product revealed to be promising as a substrate for the strains studied and the presence of CB increased the content of phenolics and antioxidant activity during storage, as well as the gastric resistance to the probiotic., leading to a promising healthy product.

Maize silage is produced to alleviate forage shortage on dairy animals, particularly during the dry season. Microorganisms play a significant role in silage fermentation and thus determine the silage quality. Therefore, modulation of microorganisms in silage may help prohibit undesired bacteria and improve silage quality. Hence, this study evaluated the effects of tannin extract as an additive on fermentative quality, aerobic stability and microbial composition of maize silage. Therefore, a mini-silo experiment of maize with five treatments was conducted for 75 days. The results showed that additives modulate silage microorganisms. In addition, tannin extract reduced certain silage bacteria while promoting others. However, this is without affecting the silage’s fermentative quality and aerobic stability. All silage fermented well with a pH below 4.2. Tannin extract improved dry matter recovery of silage while reducing silage weight loss. Furthermore, tannin extract suppressed the establishment of undesired bacteria, such as genera Dysgonomonas, Gluconacetobacter and Clostridium, while promoting desirable bacteria, such as genera Lactobacillus and Weissella, which attributed to silage quality. Therefore, it is concluded that tannins can be strategically used as silage additives to modulate microbial composition of silage and improve silage quality by promoting the dominance of desirable bacteria in silage.

The Oriental ratsnake Ptyas mucosa is a common non-venomous snake of the colubrid family, with a wide geographic range spanning much of South and Southeast Asia. P. mucosa is widely cultivated dut to it used in traditional medicine, scientific research, and handicrafts. Therefore, genome resources could play an important role in the efficacy of traditional medicine and the analysis of the living environment of the species. We collected a snake sample in Hezhou, Guangxi, China, which was identified as P. mucosa by morphological identification. Here we present a highly continuous P. mucosa genome with a genome size of 1.74Gb. The scaffold N50 length is 9.57Mb and the maximal length of scaffold is 78.3Mb, the P. mucosa genome has a CG content of 37.9% and the integrity of the gene reached 86.6%.Assembled using long-reads, the total length of the repeat sequence in the genome reached 735 Mb, and its repeat content was as high as 42.19%. A total of 24,869 functional genes were annotated. This study will assist in the understanding of the P. mucosa, and also provide a basis for medicinal research.

Minirhizotron tubes were installed to monitor root growth dynamics of mature Shiraz grapevines in a rootstock trial established in the hot climate Riverina region of New South Wales, Australia. The vertical root distribution and seasonal root growth dynamics of Shiraz on own-roots and Shiraz grafted on the rootstocks Ramsey, 140 Ruggeri and Schwarzmann was studied for five seasons across a seven-year period to a depth of 60 cm. New root production was significantly influenced by genotype, soil depth, season, growth stage and year. Soil moisture and soil tem-perature were monitored at 10, 30 and 60 cm in the last two seasons. Soil moisture at 30 cm and soil temperature at all three depths were significant predictors of root growth. New root numbers were significantly higher in 140 Ruggeri than the other rootstocks. To the depth studied, 140 Ruggeri roots were evenly distributed from the topsoil down, whereas the majority of roots of Schwarzmann and Shiraz were located at intermediate depths in the 10-40 cm ad 20-40 cm zones respectively, while Ramsey roots were found at 20 cm or below. Depending on genotype, root growth occurred across several phenological stages but tended to peak at flowering. In some years we observed root growth in early and late winter at rates exceeding that of autumn, and this was associated with warmer temperatures during this period. Overall, seasonal rooting dynamics were responsive to abiotic factors but dominated by genotype.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the worldwide health threats, kidneys may be affected by internal pathologies and environmental factors as well as a number of genes are also involved in the kidney dysfunctioning, so UMOD is one of these genes which has significant effect in regulating urea and creatinine level in blood and decreased excretion of uric acid which causes interstitial damages in kidney and may result CKD. Hence, the present study is envisaged to observe the association of this gene locus (r.1264T>C) with CKD in Pakistani population using ARMS-PCR genotyping, for the purpose, a total of 75 samples were investigated, out of which 45 were found homozygous wild-type, 21 heterozygous and 09 homozygous mutants. PLINK data analysis toolset showed that our sampled population does not obeys Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium by χ² (2, N = 75) = 18.87, p = and Chi-square statistics with p = 1.40×10^-005 showing a significant genotypic association with the subject phenotype with an alternative allele frequency of 0.15 and 0.48 within cases & controls respectively. Furthermore, an odds-ratio of 0.2 predicts that the risk of wild-type allele (A) is 0.8 times higher in patient as compared to controls and mutant allele is 0.2 times preventive in patients. Additionally, a few bioinformatics tools e.g., ProtParam, PsiPred, TMHMM-2.0, Motif Scan, ScanProsite, NetPhos3.1, GPS PAIL2.0, NetOGlyc4.0, PRmePRed, PDB-RCSB and STRING were applied to predict different characteristics of Uromodulin protein including physicochemical properties, secondary/transmembrane structures, protein conserved domains and posttranslational modifications respectively. This pilot scale study provided a comprehensive insight of the association of aforementioned genetic variant with CKD to identify and evaluate the genetic risk factors along with functional effects of the subject variant which may be used as CKD prevention by adopting DNA screening and genetic counselling recommendations.

Signaling modules that integrate the diverse extra- and intracellular inputs to control cell proliferation are essential during both development and adult stages to guarantee organism homeostasis. Mobs are small adaptor proteins that participate in several of these signalling pathways. Here we review recent advances unraveling Mob4 cellular functions, a highly conserved non-catalytic protein, that plays a diversity of roles in cell proliferation, sperm cell differentiation and simultaneously is involved in synapse formation and neural development. In addition, the gene is often overexpressed in a wide range of tumors and is linked to poor clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, Mob4 molecular functions remain poorly defined, although it integrates the core structure of STRIPAK, a kinase/phosphatase protein complex, that can act upstream of the Hippo pathway. In this review we focus on the recent findings of Mob4 functions, that have begun to clarify its critical role on cell proliferation and development of tissues and individuals.

The emergence of drug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis (Mtb) and the phenomenon of phe-notypic tolerance to drugs challenge the goal of tuberculosis (TB) elimination worldwide. By using the ex vivo cultures of alveolar macrophages obtained from lung tissues of TB patients after intensive antimicrobial chemotherapy before surgery, different subpopulations of multi-drug-tolerant Mtb with a spectrum of phenotypic and growth features were identified in the same TB lesions. Our results indicative of not only passive mechanisms generating nonheritable resistance of Mtb to antibiotics, which are associated mainly with a lack of Mtb growth, but also some active mechanisms of Mtb persistence, such as cell wall and metabolic pathway remod-eling. In one of the subpopulations, non-acid-fast Mtb have undergone significant repro-gramming with the restoration of acid-fastness, lipoarabinomannan expression and replication in host cells of some patients after withdrawal of anti-TB drugs. Our data indicate the universal stress protein Rv2623 as a clinically relevant biomarker of Mtb that have lost acid-fastness in human lungs. The studies of Mtb persistence, dormancy, and resumption and the identification of biomarkers characterizing these phenomena are very important to develop vaccines and drug regimens with the individualized management of patients for overcoming the re-sistance/tolerance crisis in anti-TB therapy.

Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone that plays a crucial role in controlling growth, development, and lifespan. Molecular regulation of GH is accomplished via the GH receptor (GHR) gene, which is the main factor influencing human development and is essential to optimal functioning of the GH/IGF-I axis. Two GHR isoforms have been studied, according to the presence (flGHR) or absence (d3GHR) of exon 3. The d3GHR variant, which has recently been related to longevity, is associated with enhanced signal transduction and higher receptor function. Many of these studies indicated that the growth response to GH treatment may be affected. Individuals carrying the d3GHR isoform have higher receptor activity, improved signal transduction, and alterations in the treatment response and efficacy compared with those carrying the WT isoform. Further, studies performed in patients with acromegaly, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, small for gestational age (SGA), and growth hormone deficiency (GHD) suggested that the d3GHR variant may have an impact on the relationship between GH and IGF-I levels, height, weight, BMI, and other variables. Other research, however, revealed inconsistent results, which might have been caused by confounding factors, including limited sample sizes and different experimental methods. In this review, we lay out the complexity of the GHR isoforms and provide an overview of the major pharmacogenetic research conducted on this ongoing and unresolved subject.

Cotton (Gossypium L.) is a major source of natural fibre for the world's textile industry and is also an important oil plant. Cotton fibre is the main source of textiles, the seeds are used for oil and the rest of the bagasse is a high-protein animal feed. In addition, more than 50 industries use cotton's so-called short fibre. Breeding studies in cotton are generally based on crosses between the best genotypes in terms of yield and fibre quality. However, the narrow genetic diversity of cultivars has a negative impact on cotton breeding programmes. For this reason, the identification of genetic resources and the disclosure of genetic diversity are important. Herein, high-resolution capillary gel electrophoresis was used to determine the genetic diversity of G. hirsutum and G. barbadense genotypes. Using 19 EST-SSR markers, a total of 47 genotypes were screened. The PIC values of the markers used ranged from 0.268 to 0.889. The mean PIC value was calculated to be 0.603. Concerning the clustering, PCoA and population structure analyses gave similar results, and the genotypes could be divided into 3 main groups. Genetic admixture with G. hirsutum was found in some genotypes of G. barbadense species. We can conclude that i) the EST-SSR markers used in this study are effective in the determination of genetic diversity, ii) The genetic diversity should be increased through the collection of genetic resources iii) genic EST-SSR markers in this study should be considered in breeding programmes by using them in QTL studies.

The Apetala2/ethylene response factor superfamily refers to a group of transcription factors that share a conserved AP2 DNA binding domain. These factors have been found to have different roles in plant responses to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Samples of hexaploid wheat, tetraploid pasta (or durum wheat), and diploid wheat progenitors were selected. The 29 dehydration-responsive element binding transcription factors in these samples were downloaded from NCBI GenBank for six different countries: Iran, China, Italy, France, Afghanistan, and Azerbaijan. The AP2 domain sequences were identified from the dehydration-responsive element binding transcription factors using PROSITE, ProDom, and SMART software. Next, all sequences were aligned using Multalin and Jalview software. The aligned sequences were then analyzed to identify amino acid locations, types, and frequencies. The multiple alignments showed that approximately 76% of the amino acid residues in the AP2 domains are conserved. According to the amino acid analysis, alanine, serine, and glutamic acid are the most abundant amino acids found in three motifs. The performed phylogenetic analysis illustrates the role of geographical effects on the transcription factor sequences of bread wheat in the Middle East. Significant differences were found between Iranian and Chinese transcription factor sequences. Moreover, genetic variation was observed in the transcription factors of Italian sequences found in pasta and wheat progenitors. Motif structures play a critical role in the domain organization of wheat proteins to enhance the characteristics of assorted metabolic pathways. The structure of the AP2 domain was analyzed by several programs, I-TASSER for instance, to identify the α-helix, β-sheets, and the regions of some significant amino acids in the 3-D model.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, but relatively common endocrine disorder associated with chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and micro-polycystic ovaries [1]. In addition to reduced fertility, people with PCOS have a higher risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disease [1], all comorbidities that are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. This review summarizes human and animal data that report mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic dysregulation in PCOS to better understand how mitochondria impact reproductive organ pathophysiology. This in-depth review considers all the elements regulating mitochondrial quantity and quality, from mitochondrial biogenesis under transcriptional regulation of both the nuclear and the mitochondrial genome, to the ultrastructural and functional complexes that regulate cellular metabolism and reactive oxygen species production, to dynamics which regulate subcellular interactions that are key to mitochondrial quality control. When any of these mitochondrial functions are disrupted the energetic equilibrium within the cell changes, cell processes can fail, and cell death can occur. If this process is ongoing, it affects tissue and organ function to cause disease. The objective of this review is to consolidate and classify a broad number of PCOS studies to understand how various mitochondrial processes impact reproductive organs including the ovary (oocyte and granulosa cell), uterus, placenta, and circulation to cause reproductive pathophysiology. A secondary objective is to uncover the potential role of mitochondria in transgenerational transmission of PCOS and metabolic disorders.

Modulating the gut microbiota with probiotics has been identified as a promising therapeutic method for the management of gastrointestinal illnesses. The effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders can only be determined by delving into their underlying mechanisms of action. Through an analysis of the underlying processes, this study hopes to provide light on the potential benefits of probiotics for treating a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. The study covers a wide variety of gastrointestinal conditions, such as IBS, IBD, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Modifying the gut microbiota composition, strengthening the gut barrier function, modulating the immune system, and producing beneficial metabolites are among mechanisms of action that have been investigated. The strain- and dose-specific variables essential to getting the best treatment results are also highlighted. This review, which synthesizes the current information, gives a thorough overview of the effectiveness of probiotics in treating a variety of gastrointestinal illnesses and illuminates potential avenues for further study and therapeutic use.

Abstract: The brain endothelial cell (BEC) glycocalyx (ecGCx) is a BEC surface coating consisting of a complex interwoven polysaccharide (sweet husk) mesh-like network of membrane-bound proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) covering the apical luminal layer of the brain endothelial cells. The ecGCx may considered as the 1st barrier of a tripartite blood-brain barrier (BBB) consisting of 1) ecGCx; 2) BECs; (3) extravascular compartment of pericytes, extracellular matrix, and perivascular astrocytes, Perturbations of this barrier allow for increased permeability in the postcapillary venule that will be permissive to both fluids, solutes, and proinflammatory peripherally-derived leukocytes into the perivascular spaces (PVS) to result in enlargement as well as increased neuroinflammation. The ecGCx is known to have multiple functions, which include its physical and charge barrier, mechanical transduction, regulation of vascular permeability, modulation of inflammatory response, and anticoagulation functions. This review discusses each of the listed functions in detail and utilizes multiple transmission electron micrographs and illustrations to allow for a better understanding of the ecGCx structural and functional roles as it relates to enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS). This is the 5th review of a series quintet that discuss the importance of EPVS from the perspective of the cells of brain barriers. Attenuation and/or loss of the ecGCx results in brain barrier disruption with increased permeability to proinflammatory leukocytes, fluids and solutes, which accumulate in the postcapillary venule perivascular spaces. This accumulation results in obstruction and results in EPVS with impaired waste removal of the recently recognized glymphatic system. Importantly, EPVS are progressively being regarded as a marker of cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative pathology.

Nodule bacteria (rhizobia) represent a suitable model to address a range of evolutionary prob-lems including the tradeoff between genetic polymorphism and natural selection. Rhizobia possess the complicated genomes in which symbiotically specialized (sym) genes differ in their natural histories from core genes encoding for housekeeping functions. Diversification of sym genes is responsible for the rhizobia microevolution which depends on the host-induced natural selection. For the rhizobia speciation, diversification of core genes is responsible for which the selective factors are unclear. In this paper we demonstrate that in the goats’ rue rhizobia (Neorhizobium galegae) populations collected at North Caucasus and composed of two host-specific biovars orientalis and officianalis (N2-fixing symbionts of Galega orientalis and G. officinalis, respectively), evolutionary mechanisms are different for core and sym genes. In both N. galegae biovars, core genes are more polymorphic than sym genes. In bv. orientalis, evolution of core genes occurs under the impacts of driving se-lection (dN/dS > 1), while evolution of sym genes is close to neutral (dN/dS ≈ 1). In bv. officinalis, evolution of core genes is neutral, while for sym genes, it is dependent on purifying selection (dN/dS < 1). A marked phylogenetic congruence of core and sym genes revealed using the ANI analysis may be due to a low intensity of gene transfer within and between N. galegae biovars. Polymorphism of both gene groups and the impacts of driving selection on the core gene evolu-tion are more pronounced in bv. orientalis than in bv. officianalis reflecting the diversities of re-spective host plant species. In bv. orientalis, highly significant (P0 < 0,001) positive correlation was revealed between the p-distance and dN/dS values for core genes, while in bv. officinalis this cor-relation is lowly significant (0,05 < P0 < 0,10). For sym genes, correlation between the p-distance and dN/dS values is negative in bv. officinalis but is not revealed in bv. orientalis. These data along with the functional annotation of core genes implemented using the Gene Ontology tools sug-gests that evolution of bv. officinalis is based mostly on adaptation for in planta niches while in bv. orientalis evolution presumable depends on adaptation for soil niches. New insights into the tradeoff between natural selection and genetic diversity are presented suggesting that the gene polymorphism may be extended by driving selection only in the ecologically versatile organ-isms capable to support a broad spectrum of gene alleles in their genepools.

Polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) plays an important role in mediating mucosal defenses, but the association between its single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and traits (such as growth and disease-resistant) in birds is scarcely known. In this research, we aimed to detect the single nucleotide polymorphisms of the pIgR gene in the chicken F2 resource population and discern the possible associations between pIgR SNPs and chicken growth, disease-resistant, respectively. Six-SNPs (3, 9, 15, 16, 19, and 21) in chicken (Gallus gallus) were significantly associated with disease-resistant in the pIgR gene (P < 0.05). The major allele genotype with SNP 9 and SNP 19 occurred more frequently with high Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) antibody rates; the major allele genotype with the SNP 3 was predominant in those with significantly lower NDV antibody rates (P < 0.05); heterozygous with the SNP 15 and SNP 21 occurred more frequently with high avian leukemia virus (ALV) antibody rates; the TT genotypes with the SNP 16 was predominant in those with low infectious bursal disease (IBD) antibody rates (P < 0.05). Besides, SNP 12 showed significant associations with body weights (BW) and shank lengths (SL) (P < 0.05). Genotyping revealed that the C allele occurred more frequently in breeds with high growth rates and the T allele was predominant in those with low growth rates at 8, 10, and 12w of age (P < 0.05). This polymorphic site may serve as a useful target for the marker assisted selection of growth and disease-resistant traits in chicken.

Cellobiose phosphorylase (CBP) catalyzes the reversible phosphorolysis of cellobiose into α-glucose 1-phosphate and glucose. When it was used in transforming cellulose to amylose (PNAS, 110: 7182-7187, 2013) as well as in constructing a yeast with the ability to phosphorolytically use cellodextrin to produce ethanol, a CBP with a broadened substrate specificity would be more desirable. Based on the structure differences in the catalytic loops of CBP and cellodextrin phosphorylase from Clostridium thermocellum (named CtCBP and CtCDP, respectively), CtCBP was mutated. A single-site mutant S497G was identified to have a 5.7-fold higher catalytic efficiency with cellotriose as a substrate in phosphorolytic reaction direction compared to wild type, without any loss of catalytic efficiency on its natural substrate cellobiose. When S497G variant was used in the transformation of mixed cellodextrin (cellobiose + cellotriose) to amylose, a significant increase in amylose yield was achieved compared to that of wild type CtCBP. Structure change in the substrate binding pocket of S497G variant accounted for its capacity to accept longer cellodextrins than cellobiose. Taken together, S497G variant of CtCBP was confirmed to acquire a promising feature favorable to those application scenarios involving cellodextrin’s phosphorolysis.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer. Although prognosis continually improved along years, a significant proportion of patients still relapse from the disease due to leukemia resistance to therapy. Methotrexate (MTX), a folic acid antagonist, is a chemotherapy agent commonly used against ALL and a immune-system suppressant for rheumatoid arthritis, that presents multiple and complex mechanisms of action and resistance. Previous studies have shown that MTX modulates the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, an important family of transcription factors involved in inflammation, immunity, cell survival, and proliferation, frequently hyperactivated in ALL. Using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on publicly available gene expression data from 161 newly diagnosed pediatric ALL patients, we found “TNF-α signaling pathway” to be the most enriched Cancer Hallmark in MTX poor responder patients. Transcriptomic analysis in a panel of ALL cell lines (6 BCP-ALL and 7 T-ALL) also identified the same pathway as differentially enriched among MTX resistant cell lines, as well as in slowly dividing cells. To better understand the crosstalk between NF-κB activity and MTX resistance, we genetically modified the cell lines to express luciferase under a NF-κB biding site promoter. We observed that the fold change in NF-κB activity triggered by TNF-α (but not MTX) treatment correlated with MTX resistance and proliferation across the lines. At the individual gene level, NFKB1 expression was directly associated with a poorer clinical response to MTX, and with both an increased TNF-α-triggered NF-κB activation and MTX resistance in the cell lines. Despite these results, pharmacological inhibition (with BAY 11-7082 and parthenolide) or stimulation (with exogenous TNF-α supplementation) of the NF-κB pathway did not alter MTX resistance of the cell lines significantly, evidencing a complex interplay between MTX and NF-κB in ALL.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) often causes severe viral pneumonia, especially among older individuals and those with underlying health conditions. The C57BL/6 mouse is widely used to develop mouse models of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and immune disorders, conditions that are associated with increased risk of severe COVID-19. Although many studies using these mouse models have examined the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 pathogenesis remains poorly understood. In vivo imaging analysis using two-photon excitation microscopy is useful for elucidating the pathology of COVID-19, providing pathological insights that are not available from conventional histological analysis. However, there is no reporter SARS-CoV-2 that demonstrates pathogenicity in C57BL/6 mice and emits sufficient light intensity for two-photon in vivo imaging. Here, we generated SARS-CoV-2 expressing the fluorescent protein Venus to facilitate in vivo pathological studies using C57BL/6 mouse models. We generated a mouse-adapted strain of SARS-CoV-2, by performing sequential lung-to-lung passages in BALB/c mice, followed by in C57BL/6 mice. We observed that the C57BL/6-adapted SARS-CoV-2 (named MASCV2-p25) replicated efficiently in the lungs of C57BL/6 mice, causing fatal pneumonia. Histopathologic analysis revealed severe inflammation and infiltration of immune cells in the lungs of MASCV2-p25-infected C57BL/6J mice, not unlike that observed in COVID-19 patients with severe pneumonia. Subsequently, we generated a mouse-adapted reporter SARS-CoV-2 (named MASCV-Venus-p9) by inserting the fluorescent gene Venus into MASCV2-p25, and sequential lung-to-lung passages in C57BL/6 mice. C57BL/6 mice infected with MASCV2-Venus-p9 exhibited severe pneumonia similar to that induced by MASCV2-p25. In addition, two-photon excitation microscopy of the lungs of the infected C57BL/6J mice showed that the infected cells emitted sufficient levels of fluorescence for easy observation. These findings suggest that MASCV2-Venus-p9 will be useful for two photon in vivo imaging studies of the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19 and for the development of therapeutic agents for severe pneumonia.

Cultivated Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil and cash crop in worldwide. Hundred pod and seed weight are important components for peanut yield. In order to dissect the genetic control of hundred pod weight (HPW) and hundred seed weight (HSW), a RIL population containing 188 individuals was developed from a cross between Jihua 5 (JH5, large pod and seed size) and M130 (small pod and seed size). An integrated genetic linkage map was constructed by using SSR, AhTE, SRAP, TRAP and SNP markers. The map contained 3,130 genetic markers which were assigned to 20 chromosomes and covered 1,998.95 cM with an average distance 0.64 cM. Based on the genetic map, a total of 31 QTLs for HPW and HSW were identified on 7 chromosomes, explaining 3.7-10.8% of the phenotypic variation by each QTL. Among these, seven QTLs were detected under more than two environments, two major QTLs were found on B04 and B08, respectively. A QTL hotspot containing seven QTLs was detected on chromosome A08 spanning a 2.74 cM genetic interval with 0.36 Mb physical map which included 18 candidate genes. Among these, Arahy.D52S1Z, Arahy.IBM9RL, Arahy.W18Y25, Arahy.CPLC2W and Arahy.14EF4H may be involved in regulating peanut pod and seed weight. These results may help further analysis of genetic mechanisms for pod and seed size in cultivated peanut.

Plums are widely distributed in Türkiye and around the world. Different wild grown plum spe-cies such as Prunus spinosa, Prunus cerasifera and Prunus domestica shows abundance of different climatic zones in Türkiye. Seed propagated diverse plum trees has been growing Anatolia for centuries and fruits of wild plants has economic value. In this study a total of 8 wild grown blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) sampled from Ispir district of Erzurum province and subjected to morphological, biochemical and antioxidant characterization. Taste, aroma, and juiciness were used as the criteria for sensory analysis, and a trained panel of five experts established and evaluated the sensory characteristics of the fruits of the blackthorn. Fruit weight, fruit skin and flesh color as L*, a* and b* values were the main morphological parameters. For biochemical analysis, organic acids, SSC (Soluble Solid Content), vitamin C, total anthocyanins, total phenol-ic content and total antioxidant capacity were determined. Antioxidant capacity was determined by FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assay. Results indicated significant differences among genotypes. Fruit weight were found between 2.78-3.67 g. Skin L∗, a∗ and b∗ values were 13.11-16.12, 2.56-3.85 and 2.01-3.44, respectively. Flesh L∗, a∗ and b∗ values were in range of 17.45-20.37, 4.88-6.73 and 4.12-5.66, respectively. SSC content was ranged from 18.66% to 21.07%. The total phenolic content (TPC), total anthocyanin content (TAC) and ferric reducing antioxi-dant power (FRAP) were between 372-504 mg GAE/100 g; 53-72 mg cy-3-g eq./100 g and 107-134 mmol Fe (II) eq./g, respectively. The dominant organic acid was malic acid for all genotypes and varied from 1.04 g/100 g to 1.52 g/100 g fresh weight base. Results indicated the importance wild blackthorn fruits for human health.

The aim of this study was to investigate the biochemical properties and gel-forming capacity of duck myofibrillar proteins under the effects of 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-mediated oxidation. Duck myofibrillar proteins were extracted and treated with different concentrations of AAPH solutions (0, 1, 3, 5, 10 mmol/L) and then analysed for carbonyl content, dynamic rheology, protein profiles and gel-forming properties (colour, water holding capacity, hardness, protein profile, microstructure). The results showed that with increasing AAPH concentration, the carbonyl content of protein showed an increasing trend (p &lt; 0.05); SDS-PAGE pattern results indicated that moderate oxidation (3 mmol/L AAPH) induced myosin aggregation via covalent bonds including disulfide, enhanced protein-protein, and thus improved protein-water interactions and gel strength of DMPs heat-induced gels. However, high oxidation (5 and 10 mmol/L AAPH) led to partial degradation of myosin heavy chain (MHC), as evidenced by lower storage modulus and irregular microstructure, which significantly reduced gelation ability. These results suggest that the internal relationship between alkanoperoxy radical-induced oxidation should be taken into account in the processing of duck meat, as mild protein oxidation is conducive to improving gel quality.

Primary lymphoma of the middle ear is rare in cats, and little information has been accumulated on the treatment and course. An 11-year-old spayed female mixed-breed cat was brought to our hospital with facial nerve paralysis, which had been stable using prednisolone for 3 months. She was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma of the right middle ear after otoscopic sampling, which showed evidence of filling of bilateral tympanic bullae on computed tomography. Hepatic metastasis was suspected and she was treated with multidrug chemotherapy, resulting in clinical remission. On day 176, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography was performed as a checkup, revealing tumor invasion into the nasopharyngeal region and recurrence of hepatic lesions without any brain abnormality. Nasal congestion then worsened and the patient died on day 228 after presenting with generalized seizures. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of invasion to surrounding tissues and hepatic metastasis in cases of feline primary middle ear lymphoma.

The wild grapevine, Vitis vinifera subsp. sylvestris grows naturally throughout the northern hemisphere, including the Mediterranean region. Wild grapevines were also observed sporadically across the southern Levant and have been considered a non-native feral plant. Nevertheless, no formal characterization was conducted for wild grapevines in this region; thus, its taxonomical assignment remains elusive. Previously we have shown that the wild grapevine populations growing in northern Israel are genetically separated from the feral domesticated forms. The aim of this work was to comprehensively describe the morphological, anatomical, and ecological traits of wild grapevines naturally thriving in two distinct habitats in Israel. The dioicous nature of the wild grapevine, as well as their flower and pollen morphology, their characteristic sylvestris fruit and seed morphology, in addition to the occurrence of natural germination of seeds in close vicinity to the mother plant, all lead to our conclusion that these plants belong to Vitis vinifera subsp. Sylvestris, and should be included in the Flora Palaestina. These findings, combined with the recently-published genetic evidence for these populations significantly advance our understanding of the species' ecology and persistence under climate change.

Cerebrospinal fluid contacting neurons (CSF-cNs) are a specific type of neurons located around the ventricles in the brain and the central canal in the spinal cord and have been demonstrated to be intrinsic sensory neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). One of the important channels responsible for the sensory function is polycystic kidney disease 2-like 1 (PKD2L1) channel. Most of the studies concerning the distribution and function of the PKD2L1-expressing CSF-cNs in the spinal cord have previously been performed in non-mammalian vertebrates. In the present study immunohistochemistry was performed to determine the distribution of PKD2L1-immunoreactive (IR) CSF-cNs in the spinal cords of 4 mammalian species: mouse, rat, cat, and macaque monkey. Here, we found that PKD2L1-expressing CSF-cNs were present at all levels of the spinal cord in these animal species. Although the distribution pattern was similar across these species, differences existed. Mice and rats presented a clear PKD2L1-IR cell body labeling, whereas in cats and macaques the PKD2L1-IR cell bodies were more weakly labeled. Ectopic PKD2L1-IR neurons away from the ependymal layer were observed in all the animal species although the abundance and the detailed locations varied. The apical dendritic protrusions towards the lumen of the central canal were clearly seen in all the animal species, but the sizes of protrusion bulbs were different among the species. PKD2L1-IR cell bodies/dendrites were co-expressed with doublecortin, MAP2 (microtubule-associated protein 2) and aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, but not with NeuN (neuronal nuclear protein), indicating their immature property and ability to synthesis monoamine transmitters. In addition, in-situ hybridization performed in rats revealed PKD2L1 mRNA expression in the cells around the central canal. Our results indicate that the intrinsic sensory neurons are conserved across non-mammalian and mammalian vertebrates, and that this may play an essential role in the regulation of motor and sensory functions as well as in the maintenance of homeostasis in the CNS.

Oxidative stress-mediated damage is often a downstream result of Parkinson’s disease (PD), which is marked by sharp decline in dopaminergic neurons within the nigrostriatal regions of the brain, accounting for the symptomatic motor deficits in patients. Regulating the level of oxidative stress may present a beneficial approach in preventing PD pathology. Here, we assessed the efficacy of a nicotinamide adenine phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) inhibitor, an exogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulator synthesized by Aptabio therapeutics with the specificity to NOX-1, 2, and 4. Utilizing N27 rat dopaminergic cells and C57Bl/6 mice, we confirmed that the exposures of alpha-synuclein preformed fibrils (PFF) induced protein aggregation, a hallmark in PD pathology. In vitro assessment of the novel compound revealed an increase in cell viability and decreases in cytotoxicity, ROS, and protein aggregation (Thioflavin-T stain) against PFF exposure at the optimal concentration of 10nM. Concomitantly, the oral treatment alleviated motor deficits in behavioral tests, such as hindlimb clasping, rotarod, pole, nesting, and grooming test, via reducing protein aggregation, based on rescued dopaminergic neuronal loss. The suppression of NOX-1, 2, and 4 within the striatum and ventral midbrain regions including SNc contributed to neuroprotective/recovery effects, making it a potential therapeutic option for PD.

The need for multi-gene analysis in evolutionary and taxonomic studies is generally accepted. However, sequencing of multiple genes is not always possible. For various reasons, short mito-chondrial DNA barcodes are the only source of molecular information for some species in many genera, although multilocus data are available for other species of the same genera. In particular, such a situation exists in the species-rich butterfly subgenus Polyommatus (Agrodiaetus). Here, we analysed partitioning of this subgenus into species groups by using three data sets. The first data set was represented by short mitochondrial DNA barcodes for all analysed samples. The second and third data sets were represented by combination of short mitochondrial DNA barcodes for a part of the taxa with longer mitochondrial sequences COI+tRNA-Leu+COII (data set 2) and with longer mitochondrial COI+tRNA-Leu+COII and nuclear 5.8S rDNA+ITS2+28S rDNA sequences (data set 3) for the remaining species. We show that DNA barcoding approach (data set 1) failed to reveal the taxonomic structure resulting in numerous polytomies in the phylogenetic tree ob-tained. Combined analysis of the mitochondrial and nuclear sequences (data sets 2 and 3) re-vealed the species groups and position within these species groups even for the taxa for which only short DNA barcodes were available.

In these times, consumers mistakenly believe that the terms “expiration date” and “best before” found on packages only convey information about food safety. Consequently, a misunderstanding of these terms contributes to food waste. In this sense, the understanding and behavior of the con-sumer with respect to the two terms were evaluated; in addition, the consumer's perception of the health risks of consuming expired food was analyzed. The research was carried out with the population of the sector of Lurigancho-Chosica, Lima – Peru; sample size was 555 participants. An online survey was sent to consumers over 18 years of age, from different sociodemographic and socioeconomic conditions. In general terms, it was found that 45% (p <0.01) consider that both terms mean the same thing, this result is a problem for food safety. The 67% (p <0.05) and 45% (p <0.05) correctly defined the first and second terms, respectively; however, the behavior is not coherent with the understanding of the terms. In addition, irrational and dangerous behavior toward expired food was evidenced, i.e., they consume expired food - "expiration date", and discard expired food - "best before". Finally, the health risks they perceived from consuming expired foods of both terms were: upset stomach, vomiting, gas, intoxi-cation, and malnutrition; these perceptions are erroneous and unfounded. Sociodemographic and socioeconomic conditions influence the under-standing, behavior, and perception of health risks. Therefore, in general lines, the level of understanding of the terms was low (p<0.01), the be-havior was inappropriate toward expired food (p<0.01), and the percep-tion of the health risk of consuming expired food was incorrect (p<0.01).

Fertility preservation technologies have existed for decades, and the field is rapidly advancing; limited data exist regarding the use of these technologies by transgender patients. Many options are available for transgender patients who wish to preserve fertility before transitioning. These options include the cryopreservation of gametes, ovarian tissue, or embryos. Currently, ejaculated, or testicular sperm, immature oocytes, and ovarian tissue can be preserved for later use, but no such use option exists for immature testicular tissue. Many financial, sociological, and legal barriers and a lack of awareness among physicians and patients also hindered the utilization of these fertility preservation services. While options are abundant, usage rates are relatively low. The initial data regarding the successful use of preserved tissues appears promising, with birth rates not dissimilar to non-transgender patients. Further investigations into this area are needed. In addition, counseling regarding fertility preservation options should become a significant part of the provider-patient conversation before transitioning therapies.; fertility; transgender; reproductive technology.

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) plays a very important role in the annual national vegetable supply and export trade. In recent years, the cadmium content of agricultural soils has increased. As a result, cabbage yields and quality have declined significantly. Studies have shown that selenium can counteract the harmful effects of cadmium on plants and can alleviate the stress caused by cadmium during the growth of plants. However, the mechanism of exogenous selenium application in the alleviation of cadmium stress in cabbage seedlings has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, exogenous selenium (10μMol/L) was applied under cadmium (25μMol/L) stress and the physiological mechanisms such as biomass, photosynthetic pigment, leaf stomata parameters, selenium and cadmium content, chloroplast ultrastructure, active oxygen accumulation, leaf membrane esterification and antioxidant enzyme activity were determined. The protective mechanism of exogenous selenium on cabbage seedlings under cadmium stress was investigated. The re-sults showed that exogenous application of selenium could effectively alleviate the decrease in growth, photosynthetic pigment and gas exchange characteristics of cabbage seedlings under cadmium stress, im-prove cabbage root vitality, reduce root leaf cadmium content and alleviate cadmium stress-induced damage. Ultrastructural observation showed that cadmium stress caused the disruption of the internal structure of chloroplasts of cabbage leaves, while exogenous selenium treatment alleviated the chloroplast damage to some extent, improved the stability of the inner capsule membrane and alleviated the cadmium stress-induced damage to photosynthetic organs. Cadmium stress also caused oxidative damage and ex-cessive accumulation of ROS in the leaves of cabbage seedlings as evidenced by significant accumulation of O2-, H2O2, MDA and electrolyte leakage. On the other hand, after exogenous selenium treatment, cadmium stress- induced oxidative damage could be reduced by up-regulating the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, POD and APX. At the same time, cadmium stress significantly increased GSH levels, and exogenous selenium treatment further increased GSH levels, thereby increasing the tolerance of cabbage to cadmium stress. In conclusion, by protecting the photosynthetic system, eliminating excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species in cadmium-stressed cabbage seedlings, alleviating oxidative stress and reducing cadmium levels in the plant, exogenous selenium can further improve cadmium tolerance in cabbage seedlings.

Cadmium (Cd) is a major heavy metal pollutant and a significant cause of abiotic stress in the environment. Organisms have developed various pathways to protect themselves against Cd stress. MYB protein is a large transcription factor family in plants. Many members of the family have been found to regulate developmental processes and stress responses. However, the function and mechanism of MYB116 are far from clear. In a recent study, we found that MYB116 of Chinese cabbage enhances Cd tolerance in yeast. BrMYB116 is transiently inducible by Cd treatment in Chinese cabbage. When expressed in yeast cells, it enhances tolerance against Cd stress and reduces Cd accumulation in the cells. Further analysis shows that BrMYB116 protein enhances Cd tolerance in yeast cells by activating one target gene that encodes the facilitator of iron transport 3 (FIT3). ScFIT3 is activated through specific binding with its promoter. More importantly, the expression of ScFIT3, leads to a substantial reduction of Cd accumulation in both yeast and Chinese cabbage. This finding implies that a similar network may exist in other biological systems, which presents a promising avenue for enhancing Cd tolerance in plants and developing Cd-resistant crops.

Antibiotics were once called miracle drugs which hit the market with astounding impact as it was considered the ultimate cure for infectious diseases in the mid-20th century. However, today nearly all bacteria that afflict humankind have become resistant to these wonder drugs once developed to stop them, imperilling the foundation of modern medicine. During the COVID pandemic, there was a surge in macrolide use to treat secondary infections and this persistent use of macrolide antibiotics has provoked the emergence of macrolide resistance. In view of the current dearth of new antibiotics in the pipeline, it is essential to find an alternative way to combat drug resistance. Antibiotic potentiators or adjuvants are non-antibacterial active molecules that, when combined with antibiotics, increase their activity. Thus, potentiating the existing antibiotics is one of the promising approaches to tackle and minimize the impact of antimicrobial resistance. Several natural and synthetic compounds have demonstrated effectiveness in potentiating macrolide antibiotics against MDR pathogens. The present review summarizes the different resistance mechanisms adapted by bacteria to resist macrolides and further emphasizes the major macrolide potentiators identified which could serve to revive the antibiotic and can be used for the reversal of macrolide resistance.

Sirtuins are a family of Class III epigenetic modifying enzymes involved in regulating cellular processes through the removal of acetyl groups from proteins. They rely on NAD+ as a coenzyme in contrast with classical HDACs (Class I, II, and IV) that depends on Zn+ for their activation, linking their function to cellular energy levels. There are seven mammalian sirtuin isoforms (SIRT1-7), each located in different subcellular compartments. Sirtuins act as master regulators of cellular homeostasis, responding to changes in nutrient availability and energy status. They play vital roles in diverse physiological and pathological conditions, making them promising therapeutic targets for various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic diseases. High levels of SIRT6 are involved in the cancer progression of many tumor types and our previous studies revealed that sirtuin 6 was highly expressed in NSCLC cells and its inhibition potentially favored apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Sirt6 emerged as a promising target and inhibitors of natural and synthetic sources are highly warranted. Imidazole derivatives are often investigated as sirtuin regulators due to their ability to interact with the binding site and modulate their activity. Imidazole bestows many possible substitutions on its ring and neighboring atoms, to design and synthesize derivatives with specific target selectivity and improved pharmacokinetic properties, optimizing drug development. We recently developed imidazole-based derivatives that potentially inhibited classical HDAC enzymes. Therefore, we evaluated the Sirtuin inhibition activity of our in-house compound comprised of imidazole derivatives and the strongest inhibition was observed with Ethyl 2-[5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-methyl-1-H-Imidazole-4-yl) acetate against Sirt6 by in-silico and protein expression studies. Our results suggested that Ethyl 2-[5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-methyl-1-H-Imidazole-4-yl) acetate could be a potential novel sirt6 inhibitor.

Methodologies for the synthesis and purification of metabolites, which have been developed following their discovery, analysis and structural identification, have been involved in numerous life science milestones. The renewed focus on the small molecule domain of biological cells has also created an increasing awareness of the rising gap between the metabolites identified and the metabolites which have been prepared as pure compounds. Due to the large number and molecular diversity of metabolites the design and engineering of resource-efficient and straightforward synthetic methodologies for their production have attracted much interest. The variety of metabolic pathways in biological cells provide a wonderful blueprint for designing simplified and resource-efficient synthetic routes to desired metabolites. Therefore, biocatalytic systems have become key enabling tools for the synthesis of an increasing number of metabolites, which can then be utilized as standards, enzyme substrates, inhibitors or products, or for the discovery of novel biological functions.

Over the past several decades, the extensive use of pyrethroids has led to the development of resistance in many insect populations, including the economically damaging pest tarnished plant bug (TPB), Lygus lineolaris on cotton. To manage TPB resistance, several commercially formulated pyrethroid-containing binary mixtures, in combination with neonicotinoids or avermectin are recommended for TPB control and resistance management in the Mid-south USA. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity and resistance risks of four formulated pyrethroid-containing binary mixtures (Endigo, Leverage, Athena, and Hero) on one susceptible and two resistant TPB populations which were field-collected in July (Field-R1) and October (Field-R2), respectively. Based on LC50 values, both resistant TPB populations displayed variable tolerance to the four binary mixtures, with Hero showing the highest resistance and Athena the lowest. Notably, the Field-R2 exhibited 1.5-3-fold higher resistance compared to the Field-R1 for all four binary insecticides. Moreover, both resistant TPB populations demonstrated significantly higher resistance ratios toward Hero and Leverage compared to their corresponding individual pyrethroid, while Endigo and Athena showed similar or lower resistance. This study also utilized the calculated additive index (AI) and co-toxicity coefficient (CTC) analysis, which revealed that the two individual components in Leverage exhibited antagonist effects against the two resistant TPB populations. In contrast, the two individual components in Endigo, Hero and Athena displayed synergistic interactions. Considering that Hero is a mixture of two pyrethroids which can enhance the development of TPB resistance, our findings suggest that Endigo and Athena are likely superior products for slowing down resistance development in TPB populations. This study provides valuable insight for selecting the most effective mixtures to achieve better TPB control through synergistic toxicity analysis, while simultaneously reducing economic and environmental risks associated with resistance development in the insect pest.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are enclosed by a lipid-bilayer membrane and secreted by all types of the cells under various physiological conditions. EVs play important roles in intercellular communication and crosstalk between tissues in the body. They are classified into three groups, such as apoptotic bodies, microvesicles, and exosomes. Exosomes were isolated from biofluids including blood, urine, milk, and cell culture media. Exosomes have significant potential for drug delivery and diagnosis. However, the method of isolation affects the physical and biological properties of exosomes. Several methods based on different principles have been developed for exosome isolation. These include ultrafiltration, precipitation, ultracentrifugation, size-exclusion chromatography, and microfluidics. In this study, we applied three common methods, such as ultrafiltration, precipitation, and ultracentrifugation, to isolate exosomes from the cell culture medium and investigated the effects of these different isolation methods on the size distribution and quality of the isolated exosomes. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images, size distribution, total protein content, and the effect of exosomes on the viability of hypoxic cells were analyzed in this study. The analysis revealed that compared to other methods, the ultracentrifugation method can isolate exosomes with smaller diameter (ranging from 20 to 80 nm), lower total protein content (50 µg/ml), and causing the increased viability of the hypoxic cells. The precipitation method does not require special equipment and is inexpensive, if the quality and purity of this method are solved, and it can be used as the best method for exosome isolation. This study can serve as a guide for choosing the best exosome isolation method for applications in medicine according to the needs, time, cost, and equipment.

Transmembrane carriers of the Slc11 family catalyze proton (H+)-dependent uptake of divalent metal-ions (Me2+) such as manganese and iron - vital elements coveted during infection. Slc11 mechanism of high affinity Me2+ cell import is selective and conserved between prokaryotic (MntH) and eukaryotic (Nramp) homologs, though processes coupling the use of the proton motive force to Me2+ uptake evolved repeatedly. Adding bacterial piracy of Nramp genes spread in distinct environmental niches suggests selective gain of function that may benefit opportunistic pathogens. To better understand Slc11 evolution Alphafold (AF2)/Colabfold (CF) 3D predictions for bacterial sequences from sister clades of eukaryotic descent (MCb and MCg) were compared using both native and mutant templates. AF2/CF model an array of native MCb intermediates spanning the transition from outward open (OO) to inward open (IO) carrier. In silico mutagenesis targeting i) a set of (evolutionary coupled) sites that may define Slc11 function (putative synapomorphy), and ii) residues from networked communities evolving during MCb transition, indicate Slc11 synapomorphy primarily instructs Me2+-selective conformation switch which unlocks carrier inner gate, and contributes to Me2+ binding site occlusion and outer gate locking. Inner gate opening apparently proceeds from interaction between transmembrane helix (h) h5, h8 and h1a. MCg1 xenologs revealed marked differences in carrier shape and plasticity, owing partly to altered intramolecular H+-network. Yet, targeting Slc11 synapomorphy also converted MCg1 IO models to OO state, apparently mobilizing the same residues to control gates. But MCg1 response to mutagenesis differed, extensive divergence within this clade correlating with MCb-like modeling properties. Notably, MCg1 divergent epistasis marks emergence of the genus Bordetella-Achromobacter. Slc11 synapomorphy localizes to the 3D areas that deviate least among MCb and MCg1 models (either IO or OO) implying it constitutes a 3D network of residues articulating Me2+-selective carrier conformation switch which is maintained in fast evolving clades at the cost of divergent epistatic interactions impacting carrier shape and dynamics.

Dyes, as indigo carmine have become indispensable to modern life being widely used in food, textile, pharmaceutical, medicine and cosmetic industries. Although indigo carmine is considered toxic and presents many adverse effects, it is heavily used in the food industry because the blue pigment is difficult to obtain from natural sources and is one of the most used dyes in the textile industry, especially for dyeing denim. Also, indigo carmine is one of the dyes used in medicine as diagnostic agent because it has impressive applicability in terms of diagnostic methods and surgical procedures. In the literature it is reported that indigo carmine is toxic for humans and can cause various pathologies, such as hypertension, hypotension, skin irritations, corneal and conjunctival disorders or gastrointestinal disorders. In this review, we discuss the structure and properties of indigo carmine, its use in various industries and medicine, the adverse effects of its ingestion, injection or skin contact, the effects on environmental pollution and its toxicity testing.

Electrochemical biosensors based on immobilized enzymes are among the most popular and commercially successful biosensors. Literature in this field suggests that modification of electrodes with nanomaterials is an excellent method for enzyme immobilization, which can greatly improve the stability and sensitivity of the sensor. However, the poor stability, weak reproducibility, and limited lifetime of the enzyme itself still limit the requirements for the development of enzyme electrochemical biosensors for food production process monitoring. Therefore, constructing sensing technologies based on enzyme electrochemical biosensors remains a great challenge. This article outlines the construction principles of four generations of enzyme electrochemical biosensors and discusses the applications of single-enzyme systems, multi-enzyme systems and nano-enzyme systems developed based on these principles. The article further describes methods to improve enzyme immobilisation by combining different types of nanomaterials such as metals and their oxides, graphene-related materials, metal-organic frameworks, carbon nanotubes and conducting polymers. In addition, the article highlights the challenges and future trends of enzyme electrochemical biosensors, providing theoretical support and future perspectives for further research and development of high-performance enzyme chemical biosensors.

Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic process in eukaryotic cells. Reactive nitrogen species play roles as inductors and signaling molecules of autophagy. A key mechanism of NO-mediated signaling is S-nitrosylation, a posttranslational modification (PTM) of proteins at cysteine resi-dues. In the present work we analyzed the patterns of protein S-nitrosylation during the induc-tion of autophagy in Triticum aestivum roots. The accumulation of S-nitrosylated proteins in the cells during autophagy induced by KNO2 and antimycin A was visualized using monoclonal an-tibodies by Western blot analysis, and proteins were identified using a standard bottom-up pro-teomics approach. Protein S-nitrosylation is a labile and reversible PTM, and therefore SNO group can be lost during experimental procedures. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis using predictive algorithms and protein-ligand docking showed that identified proteins possess hypothetical S-nitrosylation sites. Analyzing protein-protein interaction networks enabled us to discover the targets that can directly interact with autophagic proteins, and those that can interact with them indirectly via key multifunctional regulatory proteins. In this study, we show that S-nitrosylation is a key mechanism of NO-mediated regulation of autophagy in wheat roots. A combination of in silico predictive algorithms with a mass spectrometry analysis provides a targeted approach for the identification of S-nitrosylated proteins.

Brassinosteroids (BR) are key phytohormones involved in the regulation of major processes of cell metabolism guiding plant growth. In the past decades, new evidence made it clear that BRs also play a key role in the orchestration of plant responses to many abiotic and biotic stresses. In the present work we analyzed the impact of foliar treatment with 24-epicastasterone (ECS) on the endogenous content of major phytohormones (auxins, salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid) and their intermediates in soybean leaves 7 days following the treatment. Changes in the endogenous content of phytohormones have been identified and quantified by LC/MS. Obtained results point to a clear role of ECS in the upregulation of auxin content (indole-3-acetic acid, IAA) and downregulation of salicylic, jasmonic, and abscisic acid levels. These data confirm that under optimal conditions ECS in tested concentrations of 0,25 µM and 1 µM might promote growth in soybean by inducing auxin contents. Benzoic acid (a precursor of salicylic acid (SA)), but not SA itself, has also been highly accumulated under ECS treatment which indicates an activation of the adaption strategies of cell metabolism to possible environmental challenges.

Unlike animals, persistent dynamic environmental perturbations threaten plants, as they are sessile. Plants keep an inbuilt database of all epigenetic episodes during their lifetime. Present knowledge for exploiting information about how the gene network of plants contributes to epigenetic memory needs to be improved, and extensive in-depth studies are needed. Data from epigenetic memories imparts intelligent behaviour to plants, and these memories can be decoded further to investigate how these plants respond when the same abiotic stress recurs. The epigenetic phenomenon refers to gene expression patterns, including vital factors such as nucleic acids (small ribonucleic acids), histones modelling and methylation of DNA. These changes are cell cycle-associated events that may be transmitted to successive generations. Epigenetic memories due to abiotic stress are necessary for maintaining healthy ecophysiological behaviour of plants and impart the tendency to resist and adapt to challenging environmental conditions. These intelligent memories can be stored and interpreted to prepare for future challenges.

The term neuroinflammation defines the reactions of astrocytes and microglia to alterations in homeostasis in the diseased central nervous system (CNS), the exacerbation of which contributes to the neurodegenerative effects of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Local environmental conditions, such as the presence of proinflammatory molecules, mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and local cell-cell interactions, are determinants of glial cell phenotypes. In AD, the load of the cytotoxic/proinflammatory amyloid β peptide (Aβ) is a microenvironmental component increasingly growing in the CNS, imposing time-evolving challenges on resident cells. This study aimed at investigating the temporal and spatial variations of the effects produced by this process on astrocytes and microglia, either directly or by interfering in their interactions. Ex vivo confocal analyses of hippocampal sections from the mouse model TgCRND8 at different ages have shown that overproduction of Aβ peptide induced early and time persistent disassembly of functional astroglia syncytium and promoted a senile phenotype of reactive microglia, hindering Aβ clearance. In the late stages of disease, these patterns were altered in the presence of Aβ-plaques, surrounded by typically reactive astrocytes and microglia. Morphofunctional characterization of peri-plaque gliosis revealed a direct contribution of astrocytes in plaque buildup that might result in shielding Aβ-peptide cytotoxicity and, as a side effect, in exacerbating neuroinflammation.

Current routine diagnosis of a life-threatening central nervous system (CNS) infections is based on commercial multiplex real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and in-vitro culture investigations, targeting a limited number of pathogens, which requires implementation of a universal diagnosis at the point-of-care laboratory. This study aimed to document a case of non-routinely diagnosed meningoencephalitis in a twelve-year-old patient in Niger Republic. Metagenomic-based on real-time sequencing was applied directly on DNA/RNA extracted from 50 µL leftover CSF sample using Oxford Nanopore MinION, to detect all residual microorganisms non-routinely targeted by RT-PCR panel. In parallel, 1 ng DNA/RNA was used for paired-end Illumina library preparation to confirm the MinION results. Real-time analysis of MinION data detected 132 WU Polyomavirus specific reads after one-hour run. Blast nucleotide of the fasta sequences after assembly of both Illumina and Nanopore reads against NCBI GenBank database identified WU polyomavirus strain W33 (GenBank accession no: GU296367.1). Haemophilus influenzae specific reads (667 reads) were detected which explains the possible co-infection bacteria-DNA virus in this case. Blastn after total reads assembly identified H. influenzae strain PittGG (GenBank accession n° CP000672), belonging to the non-typable H. influenzae genotype by muti-locus-sequence-typing analysis. Furthermore, Achromobacter xylosoxidans (599 reads) were detected in this patient. Based on these findings, we classified this case as polymicrobial meningoencephalitis. Using RT-mNGS, the pathogen genome could be detected directly from a clinical sample, with no specific target. This technique seems to be an adapted method to diagnose non-routinely detectable pathogens, as well as their genotype and antimicrobial susceptibility in reduced time.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the citric acid on the properties of solid pine wood, which were submitted to thermomechanical treatment. A preliminary test was performed in a previous study to evaluate the influence of different temperatures of pressing and concentrations of citric acid over the physical properties of wood. After choosing the best treatments (170°C and 5% and 10% of citric acid) it was evaluated the effect of these on the chemical properties (SEM, FTIR and pH), on the density profile using an X-ray microtomography, and on the resistance to ageing through abrasion test. The result of the chemical analysis allowed to observe an increase of the presence of ester functional groups, as well as a better coverage and higher acidity of the surface. The density profile technique allowed to observe the formation of peaks of density on the surface where the acid was applied. Lastly, it was also possible to verify an increase in the resistance to abrasion because of the application of the citric acid.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is one of the important medicinal and aromatic plants. Light intensity is an indispensable factor for plants due to its effect on photosynthesis and physiological processes. Here, we investigated the impact of light intensities and harvesting times on the photosynthesis of green and purple basil. The experiment involved subjecting the plants to three different sunlight levels for 12 days: complete – 100%, 50%, and 30% sunlight. In addition, we scrutinize the harvesting time. The highest levels of photosynthetic and protective pigments were detected under full sunlight conditions in the purple basil harvested at noon. The highest levels of soluble and storage carbohydrates were recorded in the purple basil grown under full sunlight and harvested in the early morning. In contrast, their lowest levels were obtained in plants grown under 30% sunlight and harvested at noon time. Under all light treatments, the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (FV/FM) was detected at 4 a.m. in both basil varieties; it decreased at noon and increased again at 5 p.m. Non-Photochemical Quenching (NPQ) got most elevated in the green variety under all light intensities at noon. However the highest NPQ was detected in the purple variety at 8 a.m. The NPQ was lowest in both basil varieties during the early morning and afternoon. Full sunlight at noon caused temporary photoinhibition and reduced car-bohydrates while enhancing pigment concentration and photo-protective mechanisms in basil plants.

(1) The study using the quails of the Manchurian golden breed was aimed at the efficacy of the food supplement based on micro-incapsulated phytase of Obessumbacterium proteus in the recombinant yeast producer Yarrowia lipolytica at a dose of 500 FYT/kg of the feed. (2) The effect of the supplement in the poultry diets on the productivity of young and adult quails was assayed; (3) It was found that the keeping the quails on the diets using the microencapsulated phytase O. proteus provided the highest live weight, the highest intensity of egg production, and the slaughter yield of animals, the lowest feed conversion compared to those in control groups and the groups getting a commercial phytase supplement based on Aspergillus ficuum. Taken together the data obtained in our experiments indicate a high degree of assimilation of phytate-containing products by the quails when using the encapsulated phytase compared to both the control and commercial preparation of phytase of the PhyA class. It can be concluded that it is a highly expedient and promising supplement based on the microencapsulated phytase of class D for feeding, which shows the best kinetic features compared to the phytases of PhyA and PhyC classes when working in the chyme of the poultry.

Methanotrophic bacteria that possess a unique ability of using methane as a sole source of carbon and energy have attracted considerable attention as potential producers of a single-cell protein. So far, this biotechnology implied using freshwater methanotrophs, although many regions of the world have limited freshwater resources. This study aimed at searching for novel methanotrophs capable of fast growth in saltwater comparable in composition with seawater. A methane-oxidizing microbial consortium containing Methylomarinum- and Methylotuvimicrobium-like methanotrophs has been enriched from a sediment of the river Chernavka (water pH 7.5, total salt content 30 g L-1), a tributary river of the hypersaline Lake Elton, southern Russia. This microbial consortium, designated Ch1, demonstrated stable growth on natural gas in a bioreactor in media with a total salt content of 23 to 35.9 g L-1 at a dilution rate of 0.19-0.21 h-1. The highest biomass yield of 5.8 g CDW/L with a protein content of 63% was obtained during continuous cultivation of the consortium Ch1 in a medium with a total salt content of 29 g L-1. Isolation attempts resulted in obtaining a pure culture of methanotrophic bacteria, strain Ch1-1. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain Ch1-1 displayed 97.09-97.24% similarity to the corresponding gene fragments of characterized representatives of Methylomarinum vadi, methanotrophs isolated from marine habitats. The genome of strain Ch1-1 was 4.8 Mb in size and encoded 3 rRNA operons, and about 4400 proteins. The genome contained the gene cluster coding for ectoine biosynthesis, which explains the ability of strain Ch1-1 to tolerate high salt concentration.

The Douro Demarcated Region (DDR) has peculiar edaphoclimatic characteristics that provide a suitable terroir for premium wine production. As climate change effects continue to emerge, ensuring productivity and quality becomes increasingly important for viticulturists, as those directly determine their profits. Cultural approaches, such as the use of biostimulants, are actively being developed to mitigate abiotic stress. The main objective of this work was to assess the effect of foliar sprays of a seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) based extract (ANE) and glycine betaine (GB) on grape berry quality, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activity. A trial was installed in a commercial vineyard (cv. Touriga Franca) in the Douro Superior (Upper Douro) sub-region of the Douro Demarcated Region. In 2020, a total of three foliar sprayings were performed during the growing season, namely at pea-size, bunch closure, and veraison. There was a positive effect of both biostimulants (ANE and GB) on the physiological and biochemical performance of cv. Touriga Franca exposed to summer stress. In general, the GB 0.2% spraying was the most promising treatment for this grape cultivar, as it increased berry quality, the concentration of bioactive compounds (total phenolics, flavonoids and ortho-diphenols), and the antioxidant activities. These results revealed the efficacy of biostimulants sprayings as sustainable viticultural practice, improving berry quality under summer stress conditions.

Fire-related cues could alter vegetation community composition by promoting or excluding different types of plants. Smoke-derived compounds have been a hot topic in plant and crop physiology. There are some fire-prone areas in Australia, both Americas, some Mediterranean countries and regions with extensive prescribed or illegal burning like central European, which are subjected to a direct impact of fire (heat, minerals accumulation from the burning matter) and/or the indirect one (smoke) and undergo compositional and structural changes. This review first updates information about the effect of the compounds on plants' kingdoms and focuses on the research advances in the field of smoke compounds and attempts to gather and summarize the recent state of research and opinions on the role of smoke-derived compounds in plants' lives. We finish our review by discussing major research gaps, which include: Why plants respond to smoke chemicals? Is the response of seeds to smoke and smoke compounds an evolutionary-driven trait allowing plants to adapt to local environment?

The traditional understanding of brain function has predominantly focused on chemical and electrical processes. However, new research in fruit fly (Drosophila) binocular vision reveals ultrafast photomechanical photoreceptor movements significantly enhance information processing, thereby impacting a fly's perception of its environment and behaviour. The coding advantages resulting from these mechanical processes suggest that similar physical motion-based coding strategies may affect neural communication ubiquitously. The theory of neural morphodynamics proposes that rapid biomechanical movements and microstructural changes at the level of neurons and synapses enhance the speed and efficiency of sensory information processing, intrinsic thoughts, and actions by regulating neural information in a phasic manner. We propose that morphodynamic information processing evolved to drive predictive coding, synchronising cognitive processes across neural networks to match the behavioural demands at hand effectively.

The goal of this study was to analyze the instability during stepping of young and older adults at fast and spontaneous speed. To this aim, the anteroposterior and the mediolateral distances between the body center of mass (COM) and the minimum moment axis (MMA) were computed. A total of 15 young adults (25y.o. [19-29]) and 15 older adults 68.7y.o. [63-77] volunteered for this study. For the computation of the distances, a complete biomechanical protocol combining two force platforms and a 3D motion capture analysis system was setup. The subjects were equipped with 47 reflective markers and were modeled as a frictionless multibody with 19 segments, 18 joints and 42 degrees of freedom and were asked to perform a stepping at both speeds. The stepping was divided in 5 phases with successive swing and double stance phases. The greater instability was observed during the swing phases. The distances indicate a significant higher instability at fast speed for both groups (p &lt; 0.001) for all the phases. The anteroposterior distance also increases significantly for older adults highlighting greater instability while no differences were observed for the mediolateral distance all along the 5 phases suggesting higher risks of backward of forward falls during stepping.

Copepods are the most abundant metazoans on Earth, exhibit remarkable species diversity and global distribution. Accurate species identification of copepods presents a challenge due to their cryptic nature, necessitating meticulous examination and differentiation. To address this challenge, innovative approaches utilizing molecular markers have emerged, enabling more reliable and precise species identification. Mitochondrial genes, which are characterized by high variability, have proven invaluable in uncovering taxonomically significant variations among copepod species. In this study, we present the first complete mitochondrial genome analysis of the marine calanoid copepod Bestiolina similis (Sewell, 1914). Recent investigations employing whole mitochondrial genome-based phylogenetic analyses have generated considerable interest in exploring the deep branching patterns of arthropods. The complete mitochondrial genome of B. similis spans 23,704 base pairs and includes 13 protein-coding genes and 20 transfer RNA genes. The nucleotide composition of the mitochondrial genome is characterized by 43.42% adenine, 43.22% thymine, 6.48% guanine, and 6.88% cytosine. Maximum likelihood-based phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial genome were constructed of the available copepod species. Mitochondrial ge-nome-based phylogenies often reveal intriguing and distinctive topologies compared to traditional phylogenetic approaches. However, the sequencing of copepod mitochondrial genomes, particularly within the calanoid copepods remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to construct a phylogenetic tree based on the extracted mitochondrial genome, incorporating available data, to enhance our understanding of the evolutionary relationships among calanoid copepods.

The aims of the review were to elucidate the spatial variation in sea ice algae primary production rates and biomasses (Chl a) in the Canadian Arctic – Greenland region, characterized by comparable physical settings. A database was compiled from 30 studies of sea ice algae primary production rates, biomasses (Chl a), snow and ice thicknesses, ice types, nutrient (Si(OH)4, PO4, (NO3+NO2), and (NH4) concentrations in ice and below ice from the region. Production rates were significantly high (463 mg C m-2 d-1) in Resolute Bay and in Northern Baffin Bay (317 mg C m-2 d-1) both in Canadian Arctic, as compared to a rate of 0.2 mg C m-2 d-1 in northeast Greenland. The biomasses reached 340 mg Chl a m-2 in Resolute Bay in comparison to a 0.02 mg Chl a m-2 in southwest Greenland. Primary production at other Canadian and Greenland sites were comparable but sea ice Chl a was higher (15.0 ± 13.4 mg Chl a m-2) at Canadian sites as compared to Greenland (0.8 ± 0.5 mg Chl a m-2). Resolute and Northern Baffin Bays production rates were significantly higher when compared to other Arctic Ocean sites outside the studied region. The review concludes that high production rates and biomasses in Resolute and Northern Baffin Bay’s were related to inflow and mixing of nutrient rich waters of Pacific origin. A conceptual model with drivers and inhibitors of sea ice algae primary production is projected, and the database compiles a dataset of published data for further studies.

The present study provides new insights into the growth of brown algal cell wall by showing that cell wall polysaccharide plays an important role in the process of growth consider- ing the physicochemical characteristic of young and old Cladosiphon okamuranus. To determine its structural variation in detail, the cell wall was sequentially fractionated into five fractions: hot water (HW), ammonium oxalate, hemicellulose-I (HC–I), HC-II, and cellulose, and analyzed physicochemically. Results showed that almost 80% of the total recovery cell wall from both young and old thalli was HW and HC-I contained mainly fucoidan composed of Fuc, GlcA, and sulfate in molar ratios of 1.0: 0.3: 0.6~0.7 and 1.0: 0.3: 0.2~0.3, respectively. Fucoidan in HW was a highly sulfated matrix polysaccharide abundance in young thalli, while fucoidan in HC-I was rich in old thalli and functions as hemicellulose in land plants, crosslink with cellulose and strengthen the cell wall. We found that HW and HC-I were particularly involved in the growth and strength of old thalli appeared to be due to the deposition of HC-I and reducing of water content during the growth process.

Mitochondrial hypochlorite (ClO-) plays important and often contradictory roles in maintaining the redox balance of mitochondria. Abnormal ClO- levels can induce mitochondrial inactivation and further cause cell apoptosis. Herein. we have developed an anthracene carboxyimide-based fluorescent probe mito-ACS for imaging mitochondrial ClO- in living cells. This probe exhibits some distinctive features as excellent resistance to photobleaching, high selectivity and sensitivity, as well as good water solubility. Mito-ACS showed a noticeable fluorescence response toward ClO-with a fast response (within 6 s) and a low detection limit (23 nM). Moreover, the introduction of triphenylphosphonium makes the probe soluble in water and selectively localizes to mitochondria. Furthermore, mito-ACS was successfully applied to image mitochondria ClO- in living cells with low toxicity. Remarkably. the less used fluorophore anthracene carboxyimide exhibiting excellent photostability and desirable optical properties provides a promising application prospect in biological systems.

Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a complex tri-layer membrane that wraps droplets of lipids in milk. In recent years, it has attracted widespread attention due to its excellent bioactive functions and nutritional value. The milk fat globule membrane contains a diverse array of bioactive lipids, including cholesterol, phospholipids, and sphingolipids, which play pivotal roles in mediating the bioactivity of the milk fat globule membrane. We sequentially summarize the main lipid types in milk fat globule membrane in this comprehensive review and outline the characterization methods used to employed them. In this comprehensive review, we sequentially describe the types of major lipids found in the milk fat globule membrane and outline the characterization methods employed to study them. Additionally, we compare the structural disparities among glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and gangliosides, while introducing the formation of lipid rafts facilitated by cholesterol. The focus of this review revolves around an extensive evaluation of current research on lipid isolates from the milk fat globule membrane, as well as products containing milk fat globule membrane lipids, with respect to their impact on human health. Notably, we emphasize clinical trials encompassing a large number of participants. The summarized bioactive functions of milk fat globule membrane lipids encompass regulation of human growth and development, influence on intestinal health, inhibition of cholesterol absorption, enhancement of exercise capacity, and anti-cancer effects. By offering a comprehensive overview, the aim of this review is to provide valuable insights into the diverse biologically active functions exhibited by lipids in milk fat globule membrane.

Seeds stored for a prolonged period are subject to aging and reduction in germination potential (GP), which will negatively affect seed sales. Rare-earth elements have a synergistic effect on the improvement of seed GP. In this study, we examined the effects of neodymium on biochemical components, the antioxidant protective system, and metabolism-related enzymes during germination of naturally and artificially aged seeds of three wheat cultivars. Seed germination indices, biochemical substance contents, and enzyme activities decreased after seed aging. Soaking seeds in neodymium nitrate solution revived aged wheat seeds at an optimal concentration of 20 µmol/L for 8 h. Soaking in neodymium nitrate solution increased the GP (by 2.25%–60.9%), germination index (by 1.69%–29.2%), and vigor index (by 3.36%–18.7%) of aged seeds. Compared with non-soaked seeds, soaking significantly changed the contents of biochemical substances, and the activities of antioxidant protective enzymes and metabolic enzymes in seedlings were increased. Soaking with neodymium may revive aged seeds by regulating the synthesis of soluble sugars, soluble proteins, chlorophyll, and carotenoids, and decomposing malondialdehyde, in the germinating seed. Root dehydrogenase and amylase showed different responses to the aging modes. The differential responses of root dehydrogenase and amylase may reflect differences in the resistance of enzymes to long-term mild seed aging and short-term severe environmental aging.

In Argentina there are urban areas of intensive cultivation around most of the big cities, where the soils may be unsuitable for some of the horticultural species and the use of chemical fertilizers is common. Bioinoculants based on plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) could be an al-ternative for crop improvement, without affecting the environment. These formulations are gen-erally liquid, and their main disadvantage is the low viability of microorganisms. The objectives of this work were to evaluate a different inoculation method, the application of the biofilm pro-duced by Bacillus subtilis as a growth promoter on seeds of three varieties of Lactuca sativa. Biofilm was obtained under static culture conditions, the liquid (planktonic) inoculum was produced at 150 rpm. The major effects were observed with Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii, that showed an-tifungal activity against phytopathogens, synthesize plant growth regulators (IAA, cytokinin and ABA) and solubilize phosphates. The best results were obtained with the Grand Rapid variety inoculated with biofilm, its positive effect was throughout the plant development until the har-vest time, when the bacterium was recovered from the interior of the roots. The biofilm of B. sub-tilis subsp. spizizenii would be an innovative and promising seed inoculant for horticultural spe-cies.

COVID-19 patients suffer from detrimental effects of cytokine storm and not much success has been achieved to overcome this issue. We sought to test the ability of selenium in reducing the impact of two important cytokine storm players; IL-6 and TNF-a. The effects of four selenium compounds were evaluated on the secretion of these cytokines from THP-1 macrophages in vitro following LPS challenge. Also, potential impact of methylseleninic acid (MSeA) on Nrf2 and IkBa was determined following short treatment of THP-1 macrophages. MSeA was observed to be the most potent selenium form to reduce IL-6 and TNF-a levels among the four selenium compounds tested. In addition, an increase in Nrf2 and decrease in pIkBa in human macrophages was observed following MSeA treatment. Our data indicate that COVID-19 patients might benefit by suppressing their cytokine storm with addition of MSeA to the standard therapy.

To utilize heterosis and combining ability for grain yield and its attributing traits along with three physiological traits viz., leaf area index, chlorophyll fluorescence and chlorophyll content in bread wheat (Tritium aestivum L.) the crosses were attempted during rabi, 2019-20 in a half diallel mating scheme among 8 wheat varieties and the study was carried out during rabi, 2020-21 at Block No. D-13 field of Mahua block, Simradha research farm, Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi. Analysis of variance showed significant differences for treatments. Based on per se performance the hybrids NW 5054 x PBW 723 (23.3 g), and HI 1544 x NIAW 34 (23.14 g), were identified for the higher grain yield. The hybrid HI 544 x NIAW 34 (18.41 %) was identified as the best heterotic cross for grain yield per plant and its component traits. The hybrids HI 1544 x NIAW 34 (3.40) and HI 1544 x GW 322 (2.76), as well as the parents HD 3086 (21.85) and PBW 723 (20.68), were identified as superior economic hybrids and parents based on SCA/GCA effects, per se performance for grain yield per plant, and its component trait in bread wheat. Days to heading, flag leaf length, biological yield per plant, harvest index, number of grains per spike, 1000 grain weight, spike length, leaf area index, chlorophyll fluorescence, and chlorophyll content were all positively correlated with grain yield per plant.

Henipaviruses are single-stranded RNA viruses that have been shown to be virulent in several species including humans, pigs, horses, and rodents. Isolated nearly 30 years ago, these viruses have been shown to be of particular concern to public health, as at least two members (Nipah and Hendra viruses) are highly virulent, as well as zoonotic, and are thus classified as BSL4 pathogens. Although only 5 members of this genus have been isolated and characterized, metagenomics analysis using animal fluids and tissues has demonstrated the existence of other novel henipaviruses, suggesting a far greater degree of phylogenetic diversity than currently known. Using a variety of molecular biology techniques, it has been shown that these viruses exhibit varying degrees of tropism, on a species, organ/tissue, and cellular level. This review will attempt to provide a general overview of our current understanding of henipaviruses, with particular emphasis on viral tropism.

Phosphorus (P) is an essential plant macronutrient; however, its availability is often limited in soils. Plants have evolved complex mechanisms for efficient phosphate (Pi) absorption, which are responsive to changes in external and internal Pi concentration, and orchestrated through local and systemic responses. To explore these systemic Pi responses, here, we identified AtMYB44 as a phloem-mobile mRNA, an Arabidopsis homolog of Cucumis sativus MYB44, that is responsive to the Pi-starvation stress. qRT-PCR assays revealed that AtMYB44 was up-regulated and expressed in both shoot and root in response to Pi-starvation stress. The atmyb44 mutant displayed higher shoot and root biomass, compared to wild-type plants, under Pi-starvation conditions. Interestingly, the expression of PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1;2 (PHT1;2) and PHT1;4 was enhanced in atmyb44 in response to a Pi-starvation treatment. A split-root assay showed that AtMYB44 expression was systemically regulated, under Pi-starvation conditions and, in atmyb44, systemic controls on PHT1;2 and PHT1;4 expression were moderately disrupted. Heterografting assays confirmed graft transmission of AtMYB44 transcripts, and PHT1;2 and PHT1;4 expression was decreased in heterografted atmyb44 rootstocks. Taken together, our findings support the hypothesis that mobile AtMYB44 mRNA serves as a long-distance Pi response signal, which negatively regulates Pi transport and utilization in Arabidopsis.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly heterogeneous, complex disease and the fifth most common cancer worldwide (about one million cases and 784 000 deaths worldwide in 2018). CG is lately diagnosed and guarantees a poor prognosis for GC (the 5-year survival rate is less than 20%, but in early detection can reach 90%). This study evaluated the transcriptional profile in tumor gastric samples to find genes highly expressed during tumor establishment and use the related proteins as targets to find new anticancer molecules. Data was collected at Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) bank to obtain 3 dataset matrices that analyze gastric tumor tissue versus normal gastric tissue, performed microarray using GPL570 platform, and from different sources. The genes found in silico analysis were confirmed in several lines of GC cells by RT-qPCR. The protein data bank was used to find the correspondent proteins. Then a structural-based virtual screening was done to find molecules, and docking analysis was done using the DockThor server. Our results of transcriptomic analysis, together with RT-qPCR, confirm the high expression of the genes AJUBA, FBXL13, CCDC69, CD80 and NOLC1 in GC lines. Based on that, the correspondent proteins were used in SBVS analysis. Five molecules, one each target, MCULE-2386589557-0-6, MCULE-7343047040-0-1, MCULE-5230409338-0-3, MCULE-9178344200-0-1 and MCULE -5881513100-0-29. All molecules have favorable pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicological properties. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the molecules interact with proteins in critical sites for their activity. Using a virtual screening approach, a molecular docking study was performed for proteins encoded by genes that play important roles in cellular functions for carcinogenesis. Combining a systematic collection of public microarray data with a comparative meta-profiling, RT-qPCR, SBVS, and molecular docking analysis provided a suitable approach to find genes involved in GC and work the correspondent protein to strive for new molecules with anticancer properties.

The emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) poses public health challenges, and this has led to a continuous search for effective novel antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to isolate marine actinomycetes from South Africa, evaluate their in vitro antimicrobial activity against Listeria and STEC, and characterize their mechanisms of action. Marine actinoymcetes were isolated and identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the chemical constituents of bioactive actinomycetes secondary metabolites. Antibacterial activity of the secondary metabolites was assessed by the broth microdilution method and their mode of actions were predicted using computational docking. While five strains showed antibacterial activity during primary screening, only Nocardiopsis dassonvillei strain SOD(B)ST2SA2 exhibited activity during secondary screening for antibacterial activity. GC-MS identified five major bioactive compounds: 1-octadecene, diethyl phthalate, pentadecanoic acid, 6-octadecenoic acid, and tri-fluoroacetoxy hexadecane. SOD(B)ST2SA2`s extract demonstrated the minimum inhibitory con-centration and minimum bactericidal concentration ranging from 0.78–25 mg/ml and 3.13 to > 25 mg/ml, respectively. Diethyl phthalate displayed the lowest bacterial protein binding energies (kcal/mol): −7.2, dihydrofolate reductase; −6.0, DNA gyrase B, and −5.8, D-alanine:D-alanine lig-ase. Thus, marine N. dassonvillei SOD(B)ST2SA2 is a potentially good source of antibacterial compounds that can be used to control STEC and Listeria monocytogenes.

The objective of this research was to evaluate the physicochemical and sanitary parameters of raw cow's milk intended for consumption in the Amazonas region, Peru. We sampled 31 collection centers and dairy processors. We evaluated physicochemical parameters (fat, protein, solids not fat, lactose, ash, pH, and density), somatic cell count, and microbiology (mesophilic aerobic bacteria and total coliforms) of raw milk. We applied an analysis of variance (α=0.05) and the comparison of means between the collection centers and livestock basins (p&lt;0.05). In addition, we performed a cluster analysis, principal components and correlation. Depending on the collection center, we found differences in all the physicochemical parameters, somatic cell count and milk microbiology. In the livestock basin analysis, we found differences for somatic cells, fat, protein, solids, pH, coliforms and bacteria. The Jumbilla basin presented less somatic cells, less fat was found in the Levanto basin and higher protein in the Yambrasbamba basin. Lactose, ash, density, total coliforms and mesophilic aerobic bacteria did not vary according to basin. The cluster analysis yielded four groups, Group 1 is higher in ash and density, Group 2 and 3 are higher in fat, Group 3 with higher protein, but higher in total coliforms and mesophilic aerobic bacteria. Group 4 registered the highest pH and the lowest protein concentration. There was a positive correlation of fat with protein and solids not fat, lactose with solids not fat, ash with density. Negative correlations of somatic cells with fat and, protein and solids not fat with pH.

The aimed of this study was to explore the current state of knowledge of agrobiodiversity to improve nutrition and health. The study focused on wild mushrooms commonly consumed in North-Eastern of Thailand in term of ecology, cooking and preservation method and folk remedies. The monosaccharide, sugar alcohol, glucans and carbohydrate polymer content and the glycemic index of these wild mushrooms was determined using Enzymatic method. The mushrooms collected were belong to three biological groups and mostly saprotrophic and symbiotic. The most abundant mushrooms are Amanita, Boletus and Russula and followed by Calostoma sp., Astraeus asiaticus C. Phosri and Astraeus odoratus C. Phosri. Wild edible mushrooms can be used include food and medicinal purpose. Cooking methods utilized in the area are steaming, boiling and grilling. The carbohydrate profiles results showed that glucose is the major monosaccharide detected in mushroom samples. Xylitol and inositol was found in all mushroom sample while mannitol and arabitol was detected in some samples. Glucan was presented in all mushroom samples ranged from 8.03-31.1 mg/g DW. All mushrooms are classified as low GI food. Therefore, this finding provide important information that may be adopted to enhance and promote the utilization of wild mushroom to improve nutrition security and sustainability.

Alzheimer’s disease(AD) progression correlates with the propagation of hyperphosphorylated Tau (pTau) from the entorhinal cortex to the hippocampus and neocortex. Neutral sphingomyelinase2(nSMase2) is critical in the biosynthesis of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which play a role in pTau propagation. We recently conjugated DPTIP, a potent nSMase2 inhibitor, to hydroxyl-PAMAM-dendrimer nanoparticles which can improve brain delivery. We showed that dendrimer-conjugated-DPTIP (D-DPTIP) robustly inhibited pTau spread in an AAV-pTau propagation model. To further evaluate its efficacy, we tested D-DPTIP in the PS19 transgenic mouse model. Unexpectantly, D-DPTIP showed no beneficial effect. To understand this discrepancy, we assessed D-DPTIP’s brain localization. Using immunofluorescence and fluorescence-activated cell-sorting, D-DPTIP was found to be primarily internalized by microglia where it selectively inhibited microglial nSMase2 activity with no effect on other cell types. Furthermore, D-DPTIP inhibited microglia-derived EV release into plasma without affecting other brain-derived EVs. We hypothesize that microglial targeting allowed D-DPTIP to inhibit tau propagation in the AAV-hTau model, where microglial EVs play a central role in propagation. However, in PS19 mice, where tau propagation is independent of microglial EVs, it had a limited effect. Our findings confirm microglial targeting with hydroxyl-PAMAM dendrimers and highlight the importance of understanding cell-specific mechanisms when designing targeted AD therapies.

Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) is a natural sweetener with diterpenic glycosides, offering 300 times more sweetness than sucrose, and boasting low-calorie content, along with medicinal and therapeutic properties. To address a limited genetic diversity, a germplasm bank comprising 115 segregated lines of stevia was established in Colombia. Notwithstanding, the fungus Athelia rolfsii adversely impacted key stevia lines, leading to wilting and plant mortality. For this reason our study aimed to explore the biocontrol potential of native strains of Trichoderma spp., isolated from productive lots in Colombia's Cordoba department, as a solution to manage A. rolfsii. Soil samples underwent serial dilution technique (103 conidia.mL-1) to obtain Trichoderma spp. isolates, which were thoroughly morphologically and molecularly characterized. A total five native strains were identified through sequencing the PCR products using universal ITS primers, and comparisons with the GENBANK database confirmed their identity (OK310695.1, ON237703.1, ON238106.1, ON237737.1, and ON237923.1). Their biocontrol efficacy against A. rolfsii was evaluated using the dual culture technique. Remarkably, all strains exhibited significant biocontrol capacity against the A. rolfsii isolate INVEPAR-05 (OK271308.1), except for Trichoderma viride INVEPAR-T10 (ON237923.1). These findings suggest that Trichoderma spp. could be a potential option to manage the fungus in stevia.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a challenge for global health services, affecting millions and leading hundreds to end-stage liver disease each year. This comprehensive review explores the interactions between HBV and the host, examining their impact on clinical outcomes. HBV infection encompasses a spectrum of severity, ranging from acute hepatitis B to chronic hepatitis B, which can potentially progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), characterized by low HBV DNA levels in hepatitis B surface antigen-negative individuals, can reactivate and cause acute hepatitis B. The identification of diverse HBV genotypes reveals distinct geographical distributions and associations with clinical outcomes. Moreover, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the host genome have been linked to several clinical outcomes, including cirrhosis, HCC, OBI, hepatitis B reactivation, and spontaneous clearance. The immune response plays a key role in controlling HBV infection by eliminating infected cells and neutralizing HBV in the bloodstream. Furthermore, HBV can modulate host metabolic pathways involved in glucose and lipid metabolism and bile acid absorption, further influencing disease progression. HBV clinical outcomes correlate with three levels of viral adaptation. In conclusion, the clinical outcomes of HBV infection could result from complex immune and metabolic interactions between the host and HBV. These outcomes can vary among populations and are influenced by HBV genotypes, host genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle. Understanding the degrees of HBV adaptation is essential for developing region-specific control and prevention measures.

Paratuberculosis (PTB) is a chronic granulomatous enteritis caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) that affects a wide variety of domestic and wild animals. It is considered as one of the diseases with the highest economic impact in the ruminant industry. Despite many efforts and intensive research, PTB control is still controversially discussed and diagnostic and immunoprophylactic tools lack great limitations. Thus, models play a crucial role in understanding the pathogenesis of infection and disease, and in testing novel vaccine candidates. Here, we review the potential and limitations of different experimental approaches currently used in PTB research, focusing on laboratory animals and cell based models. The aim of this review is to offer a vision of the models that have been used and what has been achieved or discovered with each one so that the reader can choose the best model to answer their scientific questions and prove their hypotheses. Also, we bring forward new approaches that we consider worth exploring in the near future.

Although the vegetation of the Cerrado biome is prone to fire, plant species composition can be altered according to its severity and frequency. Furthermore, many Cerrado plant species are resistant and can adapt to frequent fires. Little is known about how plant species of Cerrado environments respond to fire and the extent to which fire is beneficial for their conservation. The present study analyzed the responses of plant species of areas of campo sujo to fire and changes in floristics and vegetation structure at different post-fire intervals. Areas with frequent fires had a greater diversity of species, while the area with 10 years without burning had lower diversity and greater DBH. The distribution of species differed among the four the studied areas. We conclude that fire was beneficial for species diversity in the studied areas of Cerrado since it was able to promote the insertion and removal of species during intervals between fires.

An increase in Spodoptera species was reported in Bt soybean fields expressing Cry1Ac insecticidal proteins in Brazil, requiring additional management with chemical insecticides. Here, we evaluated the dose effects of flubendiamide and thiodicarb on Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858), Spodoptera eridania (Stoll, 1782), Spodoptera albula (Walker, 1857) and Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) that survived on MON 87751 × MON 87708 × MON 87701 × MON 89788, expressing Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2 and Cry1Ac; MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean, expressing Cry1Ac; and non-Bt soybean. On unsprayed Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2/Cry1Ac soybean, only S. frugiperda showed ~60% mortality after 10 d, whereas S. cosmioides, S. eridania and S. albula showed >81% mortality. Surviving larvae of all species on this Bt soybean showed &gt;80% mortality when exposed to the field label dose of flubendiamide (70 mL/ha) or thiodicarb (400 g/ha) or at 50% of these doses. In contrast, all four species had <25% and <19% mortality on Cry1Ac and non-Bt soybean, respectively. Surviving S. cosmioides, S. eridania and S. albula on these soybean types presented >83% mortality post-exposure to both dose levels of flubendiamide and thiodicarb. Some S. frugiperda larvae surviving on Cry1Ac and non-Bt soybean sprayed with a 50% dose of either insecticide developed into adults. However, L1 larvae developing on Cry1Ac soybean leaves sprayed with flubendiamide and L2 larvae on this soybean sprayed with thiodicarb had a prolonged immature stage, and females lower fecundity, which are likely to impact its population growth on soybean.

Alfalfa is an important forage crop around the world. LncRNAs are considered to be a class of functional biomacromolecules, while little is known about lncRNAs in alfalfa. In this study, RNAs from different tissues of alfalfa were sequenced and anlyzed with full-length transcriptome sequencing technology, yielding the full-length transcripts dataset of alfalfa. Based on sequencing and public RNA-seq data, lncRNAs of alfalfa were predicted genome-wide by CPC2 and PLEK. The results showed most lncRNAs shared low sequence conservation with those in other plant species, part of which seems originate from plastid genome. We also identified 88563 lncRNAs, approximately 99.8% of total lncRNAs, with possibility of coding small ORFs using two prediction tools. Our research generated the biggest sequence set of alfalfa lncRNAs, and revealed some plastid originated lncRNAs with high sequence conservation.

This review describes and discusses unusual axonal structural details and evidence for unmasking of sulfhydryl groups (-SH) in axoplasmic membranes resulting from electrical stimulation or asphyxia. Crayfish axons contain fenestrated septa (FS) that in phase contrast micrographs appear as repeated striations. In the electron microscope each septum is made of two cross-sectioned membranes containing ~550 Å pores, each occupied by a microtubule. Thin filaments, likely to be made of kinesin, bridge the microtubule to the edge of the pore. FS are believed to play a role in axoplasmic flow. The axons also display areas in which axon and sheath-glial cell plasma membranes are sharply curved and project into the axoplasm. In freeze-fractures, the protoplasmic leaflet (P-face) of the projections appears as elongated indentations containing parallel chains of particles. The sheath-glial cell plasma membrane also contains particles, but they are irregularly aggregated. The axons also display areas where axonal and glial plasma membranes fuse, creating intercellular pores. In axons fixed during electrical stimulation the plasma membrane, the outer membrane of mitochondria, membranes of other cytoplasmic organelles and gap junctions increase in electron opacity and thickness, resulting from unmasking of sulfhydryl groups (-SH). Similar changes occur in asphyxiated nerve cords.

The dogs with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) play a key role in the transmission cycle of Leishmania infantum to humans in the urban environment. There is a consensus regarding the importance of developing a vaccine to control this disease. Despite many efforts to develop a protective vaccine against CVL, the ones currently available, CaniLeish®, Leish-tec® and LetiFend® have limited effectiveness. This is due, in part, to the complexity of the immune response of the naturally infected dogs against the parasite and the complexity of the parasite transmission cycle. Thus, strategies such as the development of a transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs), already being applied to other vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, would be an attractive alternative to control leishmaniasis. TBVs induce the production of antibodies in the vertebrate host, which can inhibit parasite development in the vector and/or interfere with aspects of vector biology, leading to an interruption of parasite transmission. To date, there are few TBVs studies for CVL and other leishmaniasis forms. However, the few studies that exist show promising results justifying further development of this approach.

The objective of this investigation was to enhance the sensory appeal of Cerasus humilis (C. humilis) juice and ascertain potential interactions among bioactive compounds within a functional juice matrix. Sensory attributes, color, antioxidant potential, polyphenol and vitamin C (VC) concentrations, and sugar levels were assessed. Diverse dosage combinations were examined to determine their impact on the quality of both C. humilis and Green grape juices. Among the formulations, CG5 exhibited elevated antioxidant activit y and polyphenol content (455.02 mg TE/100 ml and 173.1 mg/100 ml, respectively), coupled with favorable consumer preference. Notable variations in compound content were observed across the seven analyzed juices. In the blended juices (CG1–CG5), interactions between distinct juices influenced VC and sugar levels, with other bioactives contributing to beneficial modifications, displaying a progressive rise. This study innovatively crafted delectable and convenient C. humilis juice, upholding its intrinsic high antioxidant activity, thereby presenting a novel avenue for marketable functional juice offerings.

Keywords: Y RNA; Canine hepatocellular carcinoma, canine hepatocellular adenoma

Sphingolipids play an important role in the development of diabetes both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as well as in the development of both micro- and macro-vascular complications. Several reviews have been published concerning the role of sphingolipids in diabetes but most of the emphasis has been on the possible mechanisms by which sphingolipids, mainly ceramides, contribute to the development of diabetes. Research on circulating levels of the different classes of sphingolipids in serum and in lipoproteins and their importance as biomarkers to predict not only the development of diabetes but also of its complications has only recently emerged and it is still in its infancy. This review summarizes the previously published literature concerning sphingolipid-mediated mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes and its complications focusing on how circulating plasma sphingolipid levels and the relative content carried by the different lipoproteins may impact their role as possible biomarkers both in the development of diabetes and mainly in the development of diabetic complications. Further studies in this field may open new therapeutic avenues to prevent or arrest/reduce both the development of diabetes and progression of its complications.