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Objective: Individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) exhibit a higher susceptibility to infections, suggesting potential immunological alterations within this population. Consequently, this study aims to assess the immune response profile in children with DS to identify potential immune dysfunctions associated with recurrent infections. Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective analysis involving 49 DS patients, examining various epidemiological, clinical, cytogenetic, and laboratory variables. The study's sample comprised patients aged 2-20 years, with a predominance of males. These patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of recurrent infections, as indicated by the Jeffrey Modell Foundation alert signs. Results: Immunoglobulin (Ig) A, G, and M levels were deemed normal, although individuals with DS experiencing recurrent infections exhibited significantly lower IgA levels. Additionally, CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD19 lymphocyte counts were found to be within normal ranges, with no significant differences between the two groups. While overall data indicated normal seroconversion levels of pneumococcal polysaccharide antibodies, a notable impairment in seroconversion was observed among DS patients with recurrent infections compared to those without such infections. Conclusion: The deficiency of anti-polysaccharide antibodies in individuals with DS may constitute an important immunological comorbidity. Therefore, it warrants further investigation, particularly among individuals with recurrent infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper draws on the data gathered from a survey on men and women living in Spanish municipalities affected by depopulation. Using factor analysis, it identifies labour profiles among men and women associated with socio-demographic, economic and technological variables. We establish four profiles related to employment status for the men and women in a rural environment. For the women, we identify a group linked to the services sector, another to the public administration sector, and a group with unstable employment and the intention to emigrate, with these women being the youngest. Additionally, there is a group of women that report not working or never having worked, with these individuals being older and associated with family businesses. Regarding the men, the first three groups correspond to the agricultural sector, the industry sector and the services sector, with there also being a further group consisting of young men either without a job or with an unstable one. The article also applies cluster analysis to examine men and women's preferences as regards the policies currently most widely used to promote rural employment in Spain: concession of tax benefits for job creation, the promotion of entrepreneurial activity, innovation in the primary sector and the advancement of rural tourism. The order of preference for the four policies is the same for both sexes, with entrepreneurship and improved funding being the most preferred, followed by innovation in agricultural activity. The results show, however, that variables such as age, level of education, type of job, economic sector, income and size of municipality of residence, have a different impact on men's and women's choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral microbiomes play crucial roles in holobiont homeostasis and adaptation. The host's ability to populate broad ecological niches and to cope with environmental changes seems to be related to the flexibility of the coral microbiome. By means of high-throughput DNA sequencing we characterized simultaneously both bacterial (16S rRNA) and Symbiodiniaceae (ITS2) communities of four reef-building coral species (Mussismilia braziliensis, Mussismilia harttii, Montastraea cavernosa, and Favia gravida) that differ in geographic distribution and niche specificity. Samples were collected in a marginal reef system (Abrolhos, Brazil) in four sites of contrasting irradiance and turbidity. Biological filters governed by the host are important in shaping corals' microbiome structure. More structured associated microbial communities by reef site tend to occur in coral species with broader geographic and depth ranges, especially for Symbiodiniaceae, whereas the endemic and habitat-specialist host, M. braziliensis, has relatively more homogenous bacterial communities with more exclusive members. Our findings lend credence to the hypothesis that higher microbiome flexibility renders corals more adaptable to diverse environments, a trend that should be investigated in more hosts and reef areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The expansion of bamboo forests increases environmental heterogeneity in tea plantation ecosystems, affecting soil properties and microbial communities. Understanding these impacts is essential for developing sustainable bamboo management and maintaining ecological balance in tea plantations. Methods: We studied the effect of the continuous expansion of Pleioblastus amarus into tea plantations, by establishing five plot types: pure P. amarus forest area (BF), P. amarus forest interface area (BA), mixed forest interface area (MA), mixed forest center area (TB), and pure tea plantation area (TF). We conducted a comprehensive analysis of soil chemical properties and utilized Illumina sequencing to profile microbial community composition and diversity, emphasizing their responses to bamboo expansion. Results: (1) Bamboo expansion significantly raised soil pH and enhanced levels of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus, particularly noticeable in BA and MA sites. In the TB sites, improvements in soil nutrients were statistically indistinguishable from those in pure tea plantation areas. (2) Continuous bamboo expansion led to significant changes in soil bacterial diversity, especially noticeable between BA and TF sites, while fungal diversity was unaffected. (3) Bamboo expansion substantially altered the composition of less abundant bacterial and fungal communities, which proved more sensitive to changes in soil chemical properties. Conclusion: The expansion of bamboo forests causes significant alterations in soil pH and nutrient characteristics, impacting the diversity and composition of soil bacteria in tea plantations. However, as expansion progresses, its long-term beneficial impact on soil quality in tea plantations appears limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The North Western Himalayan region, particularly the Kashmir valley, harbors a rich diversity of rice landraces, yet systematic studies on climate resilience are lacking. The present study was aimed at investigating the root traits and their interplay with shoot morphological and physiological traits under drought stress using seven indica and three japonica rice varieties released by SKUAST-Kashmir and their possible role in adaptive capacity to different environments. Significant variability was observed in root and shoot traits across the varieties. Root traits exhibited a wide phenotypic range, including rooting depth, fresh and dry weight, diameter, length, volume, surface area, and length density. Associations between root and shoot traits were identified, with notable correlations such as shoot weight with root shoot ratio, shoot length with root dry weight, diameter, and surface area, and tiller number with various root traits. Additionally, physiological traits like canopy temperature depression showed significant correlations with root depth and surface area. Principal component analysis (PCA) analysis grouped japonica type varieties together with a notable outlier, Chenab, due to its superior root traits among indica varieties. These findings emphasize the substantial contribution of root traits to productivity and advocate for their integration into varietal development processes. In view of the increasing evidences in crop plants about their role of root traits in defining plant productivity and reproductive fitness, study of root traits could provide valuable insights into the patterns of crop adaptation to diverse areas and growing environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a key pathogen in cystic fibrosis (CF) associated infections, known for its biofilm-forming ability and resistance to multiple antibiotics. Understanding the relationship between biofilm production and antibiotic resistance profiles in clinical isolates can guide treatment strategies. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to investigate the biofilm-forming abilities and antibiotic resistance profiles of clinical P. aeruginosa isolates from patients with CF and to determine the relationship between these two factors and their impact on treatment efficacy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa from CF patients. Biofilmforming capacity was categorized as strong, moderate, or weak based on quantitative assays. Antibiotic resistance was assessed for ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, ceftazidime, meropenem, and piperacillin/tazobactam. Multi-drug resistance was defined as resistance to three or more antibiotic classes. Statistical correlations between biofilm-forming capacity and resistance levels were evaluated using the Chi-square tests. Results: Fifty-six percentages of isolates were strong biofilm producers, while 34% and 10% were moderate and weak producers, respectively. The highest antibiotic resistance was observed against ciprofloxacin (60%), followed by tobramycin (50%) and ceftazidime (45%). Forty percentages of the isolates were classified as multi-drug resistant. Strong biofilm producers demonstrated a significantly high correlation with antibiotic resistance (P<0.05). Two predominant clonal groups were identified among the isolates, suggesting a possible clonal spread of resistance traits. Conclusion: The study confirms a strong association between robust biofilm production and heightened antibiotic resistance in P. aeruginosa isolates from CF patients. These findings highlight the need for targeted therapeutic strategies to disrupt biofilm formation and curb resistance spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is a determining factor for common bean production in several regions of Brazil. This study formed a thematic collection for high temperatures of mulatto common bean from the Active Germplasm Bank of Embrapa Rice and Beans. The experiments were conducted under field conditions in suitable temperature environment (STE), and in a high temperature environment (HTE) where 94 accessions were evaluated. Joint analysis of the agronomic data obtained in these experiments, together with the database of ecogeographical and morphological characterization of mulatto common bean accessions constituted the study to elaborate the thematic collection for high temperature conditions, totaling 30 accessions, of which 28 had their root growth characterized in a rhizotron system in a greenhouse. Data analysis identified superior genotypes in relation to the studied characteristics, but there were no significant correlations. It was observed that the grain yield averages per accession in the field experiments in STE and in HTE of the 96 accessions were 2068.9 and 1227.2 kg ha−1, respectively, altered to the value of 2400.8 and 1271.5 kg ha−1 when selecting the 30 accessions which compose the thematic collection. The root architecture varied for the different evaluated accessions. The resulting thematic core collection potentially reflects the maximum diversity of mulatto common beans in a smaller sample size for high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper draws on the data gathered from a survey on men and women living in Spanish municipalities affected by depopulation. Using factor analysis, it identifies labour profiles among men and women associated with socio-demographic, economic and technological variables. We establish four profiles related to employment status for the men and women in a rural environment. For the women, we identify a group linked to the services sector, another to the public administration sector, and a group with unstable employment and the intention to emigrate, with these women being the youngest. Additionally, there is a group of women that report not working or never having worked, with these individuals being older and associated with family businesses. Regarding the men, the first three groups correspond to the agricultural sector, the industry sector and the services sector, with there also being a further group consisting of young men either without a job or with an unstable one. The article also applies cluster analysis to examine men and women’s preferences as regards the policies currently most widely used to promote rural employment in Spain: concession of tax benefits for job creation, the promotion of entrepreneurial activity, innovation in the primary sector and the advancement of rural tourism. The order of preference for the four policies is the same for both sexes, with entrepreneurship and improved funding being the most preferred, followed by innovation in agricultural activity. The results show, however, that variables such as age, level of education, type of job, economic sector, income and size of municipality of residence, have a different impact on men’s and women’s choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The activities of microbiomes in river sediments play an important role in sustaining ecosystem functions by driving many biogeochemical cycles. However, river ecosystems are frequently affected by anthropogenic activities, which may lead to microbial biodiversity loss and/or changes in ecosystem functions and related services. While parts of the Atlantic Forest biome stretching along much of the eastern coast of South America are protected by governmental conservation efforts, an estimated 89% of these areas in Brazil are under threat. This adds urgency to the characterization of prokaryotic communities in this vast and highly diverse biome. Here, we present prokaryotic sediment communities in the tropical Juliana River system at three sites, an upstream site near the river source in the mountains (Source) to a site in the middle reaches (Valley) and an estuarine site near the urban center of Ituberá (Mangrove). The diversity and composition of the communities were compared at these sites, along with environmental conditions, the former by using qualitative and quantitative analyses of 16S rRNA gene amplicons. While the communities included distinct populations at each site, a suite of core taxa accounted for the majority of the populations at all sites. Prokaryote diversity was highest in the sediments of the Mangrove site and lowest at the Valley site. The highest number of genera exclusive to a given site was found at the Source site, followed by the Mangrove site, which contained some archaeal genera not present at the freshwater sites. Copper (Cu) concentrations were related to differences in communities among sites, but none of the other environmental factors we determined was found to have a significant influence. This may be partly due to an urban imprint on the Mangrove site by providing organic carbon and nutrients via domestic effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explored forest management goals - conservation and socio-economic goals. It is seen that the goal of socio-economic reduces forest conservation. The ideological conflict between the two approaches can be overcome through the management of property rights and access to forest resource utilization that is not for the purpose of local interests. Ownership rights to land in Minangkabau are in the hands of women, but men have the ability to determine the use of the land. The difference between property rights and access rights between women and men in processing customary land and Nagari land is a means of resolving conflicts between the government, traditional leaders and land managers in processing social forestry in the inheritance and matrilineal system of the Minangkabau community. This study focused on the role women play in conflict management of social forests in Nagari Sungai Buluh. From the results of research conducted using qualitative research methods and case study approaches, it was found that the role of women in conflict management included bringing together the community and the government in meetings discussing the planning and management of social forestry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of physical exercise on human health make it desirable to identify new approaches that would mimic or potentiate the effects of exercise to treat metabolic diseases. However, whether far-infrared (FIR) hyperthermia therapy could be used as exercise mimetic to realize wide-ranging metabolic regulation, and its underling mechanisms remain unclear. Here, a specific far-infrared (FIR) rays generated from graphene-based hyperthermia devices might promote exercise capacity and metabolisms. The material characterization showed that the graphene synthesized by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) was different from carbon fiber, with single-layer structure and high electrothermal transform efficiency. The emission spectra generated by graphene-FIR device would maximize matching those adsorbed by tissues. Graphene-FIR enhanced both core and epidermal temperatures, leading to increased blood flow in the femoral muscle and the abdominal region. The combination of microbiomic and metabolomic analysis revealed that graphene-FIR modulates the metabolism of the gut-muscle axis. This modulation was characterized by an increased abundance of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA)-producing bacteria and AMP, while lactic acid levels decreased. Furthermore, the principal routes involved in glucose metabolism, such as glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, were found to be altered. Graphene-FIR managed to stimulate AMPK activity by activating GPR43, thus enhancing muscle glucose uptake. Furthermore, a microbiota disorder model also demonstrated that the graphene-FIR effectively restore the exercise endurance with enhanced p-AMPK and GLUT4. Our results provided convincing evidence that graphene-based FIR therapy promoted exercise capacity and glucose metabolism via AMPK in gut-muscle axis. These novel findings regarding the therapeutic effects of graphene-FIR suggested its potential utility as a mimetic agent in clinical management of metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) pose a significant threat to human and animal health. However, the diversity and antibiotic resistance of animal ExPEC, and their connection to human infections, remain largely unexplored. The study performs large-scale genome sequencing and antibiotic resistance testing of 499 swine-derived ExPEC isolates from China. Results show swine ExPEC are phylogenetically diverse, with over 80% belonging to phylogroups B1 and A. Importantly, 15 swine ExPEC isolates exhibit genetic relatedness to human-origin E. coli strains. Additionally, 49 strains harbor toxins typical of enteric E. coli pathotypes, implying hybrid pathotypes. Notably, 97% of the total strains are multidrug resistant, including resistance to critical human drugs like third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins. Correspondingly, genomic analysis unveils prevalent antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), often associated with co-transfer mechanisms. Furthermore, analysis of 20 complete genomes illuminates the transmission pathways of ARGs within swine ExPEC and to human pathogens. For example, the transmission of plasmids co-harboring fosA3, blaCTX-M-14, and mcr-1 genes between swine ExPEC and human-origin Salmonella enterica is observed. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and controlling ExPEC infections in animals, as they can serve as a reservoir of ARGs with the potential to affect human health or even be the origin of pathogens infecting humans. Extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) is a significant cause of human and animal disease. Here, the authors compile a collection of 499 ExPEC samples from swine in China and characterise their phylogenetic population structure and antibiotic resistance profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 may have different effects on animal growth and health due to unique metabolism in vivo. This study was investigated to explore the different effects of altering the ratio of C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 in fat supplements on growth performance, lipid metabolism, intestinal barrier, cecal microbiota, and inflammation in fattening bulls. Thirty finishing Angus bulls (626 ± 69 kg, 21 ± 0.5 months) were divided into 3 treatments according to the randomized block design: (1) control diet without additional fat (CON), (2) CON + 2.5% palmitic acid calcium salt (PA, 90% C16:0), and (3) CON + 2.5% mixed fatty acid calcium salt (MA, 60% C16:0 + 30% cis-9 C18:1). The experiment lasted for 104 d, after which all the bulls were slaughtered and sampled for analysis. Results: MA tended to reduce 0–52 d dry matter intake compared to PA (DMI, P = 0.052). Compared with CON and MA, PA significantly increased 0–52 d average daily gain (ADG, P = 0.027). PA tended to improve the 0–52 d feed conversion rate compared with CON (FCR, P = 0.088). Both PA and MA had no significant effect on 52–104 days of DMI, ADG and FCR (P > 0.05). PA tended to improve plasma triglycerides compared with MA (P = 0.077), significantly increased plasma cholesterol (P = 0.002) and tended to improve subcutaneous adipose weight (P = 0.066) when compared with CON and MA. Both PA and MA increased visceral adipose weight compared with CON (P = 0.021). Only PA increased the colonization of Rikenellaceae, Ruminococcus and Proteobacteria in the cecum, and MA increased Akkermansia abundance (P < 0.05). Compared with CON, both PA and MA down-regulated the mRNA expression of Claudin-1 in the jejunum (P < 0.001), increased plasma diamine oxidase (DAO, P < 0.001) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, P = 0.045). Compared with CON and MA, PA down-regulated the ZO-1 in the jejunum (P < 0.001) and increased plasma LPS-binding protein (LBP, P < 0.001). Compared with CON, only PA down-regulated the Occludin in the jejunum (P = 0.013). Compared with CON, PA and MA significantly up-regulated the expression of TLR-4 and NF-κB in the visceral adipose (P < 0.001) and increased plasma IL-6 (P < 0.001). Compared with CON, only PA up-regulated the TNF-α in the visceral adipose (P = 0.01). Compared with CON and MA, PA up-regulated IL-6 in the visceral adipose (P < 0.001), increased plasma TNF-α (P < 0.001), and reduced the IgG content in plasma (P = 0.035). Compared with CON, PA and MA increased C16:0 in subcutaneous fat and longissimus dorsi muscle (P < 0.05), while more C16:0 was also deposited by extension and desaturation into C18:0 and cis-9 C18:1. However, neither PA nor MA affected the content of cis-9 C18:1 in longissimus dorsi muscle compared with CON (P > 0.05). Conclusions: MA containing 30% cis-9 C18:1 reduced the risk of high C16:0 dietary fat induced subcutaneous fat obesity, adipose tissue and systemic low-grade inflammation by accelerating fatty acid oxidative utilization, improving colonization of Akkermansia, reducing intestinal barrier damage, and down-regulating NF-κB activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit seeds are leftovers from a variety of culinary sectors. They are generally unutilized and contribute greatly to global disposals. These seeds not only possess various nutritional attributes but also have many heath-beneficial properties. One way to make use of these seeds is to extract their bioactive components and create fortified food items. Nowadays, researchers are highly interested in creating innovative functional meals and food components from these unconventional resources. The main objective of this manuscript was to determine the usefulness of seed powder from 70 highly consumed fruits, including Apple, Apricot, Avocado, Banana, Blackberry, Blackcurrant, Blueberry, Cherry, Common plum, Cranberry, Gooseberry, Jackfruit, Jamun, Kiwi, Lemon, Mahua, Mango, Melon, Olive, Orange, and many more have been presented. The nutritional attributes, phytochemical composition, health advantages, nanotechnology applications, and toxicity of these fruit seeds have been fully depicted. This study also goes into in-depth detailing on creating useful food items out of these seeds, such as bakery goods, milk products, cereal-based goods, and meat products. It also identifies enzymes purified from these seeds along with their biochemical applications and any research openings in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluidic behavior of porous scaffolds plays a vital role in the mass transportation of cells and the formation of new tissue, which is crucial for promoting bone ingrowth. TPMS porous structures are widely recognized in the field of tissue engineering as a versatile solution for designing biomorphic scaffolds due to their unique structural and biological properties. To explore the flow behavior of TPMS-based porous scaffolds, we employed a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. Our study focused on two types of TPMS structures: I-graph wrapped package (IWP) and diamond (D); both were developed by using mathematically defined TPMS equations. For each structure, we created four model variants with porosities of 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80%, respectively. These models underwent systematic fluid flow simulations to evaluate important parameters such as permeability, wall shear stress (WSS), pressure distribution, velocity distribution, and pressure drop. These aspects are critical for assessing the suitability of scaffolds as bone substitutes. Our simulation results revealed that the IWP structure exhibited superior fluid accessibility compared to the diamond structure in terms of permeability and WSS. Overall, this investigation emphasizes the benefits of utilizing TPMS structures as a viable option for bone applications. The significant finding of this work underscores the importance of optimizing scaffold architecture to enhance cell ingrowth and transport phenomena at targeted anatomical sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leishmania infantum is endemic in the Mediterranean region, presenting mostly as visceral leishmaniasis (VL). In Portugal, reporting of VL cases to public health authorities is mandatory, but significant underreporting is likely. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the VL cases diagnosed in hospitals of the Portuguese National Health Service (NHS), between 2010 and 2020. Methods: Collaboration was requested to every hospital of the Portuguese NHS in Mainland Portugal. Cases were screened through a search of diagnostic discharge codes or, if not available, by a search of positive laboratory results for Leishmania infection. Sociodemographic and clinical data was retrieved from medical records. Simultaneously, the National Health authority was contacted to request access to data of notified cases of VL between 2010 and 2020. Descriptive, hypothesis testing and multiple binary logistic regression models were performed. Results: A total of 221 VL cases were identified. A significant increase in estimated national incidence was seen in the years after 2016 (P = 0.030). VL was predominantly diagnosed in people living with HIV (PLWH) and in children (representing around 60% of the new cases), but the outcome was generally poorer in non-HIV patients with associated immunosuppression, with significantly lower rates of clinical improvement at 7 (P = 0.003) and 30 days (P = 0.008) after treatment. Atypical presentations, with gastrointestinal and/or respiratory involvement, were seen in 8.5% of VL cases. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was diagnosed in 40.0% of children under 5 years of age. Only 49.7% of incident VL cases were reported. Simultaneous involvement of the skin was confirmed in 5.9% of patients. Conclusions: VL presents a continuing threat in Portugal, especially to PLWH and children, and an increasing threat to other immunosuppressed groups. Recent increases in incidence should be closely monitored to allow prompt interventions. Programs to control the disease should focus on providing tools for earlier diagnosis and on reducing underreporting and promoting an integrated surveillance of human and animal disease. These data should be combined with asymptomatic infection and vector information, following a One Health approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple diseases can decrease levels and changes in gut microbial populations, while increasing microbiota diversity causes an increase in the immune response. Evidence shows that exercise can affect the gut microbiota and, subsequently, the health of individuals. Also, regular exercise provides many benefits for health, protection against the spread of chronic diseases, and improved quality of life. Exercise can increase the number of helpful microbiota species, enrich microflora diversity, and improve the growth of commensal microbiota. This article reviews recent findings on the interaction of gut microbiota and exercise. Also, another purpose of this research is to suggest different mechanisms that using them can provide the way that the exercise factor can change the gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptosporidiosis is an opportunistic, globally distributed parasitic disease. Whereas Cryptosporidium causes asymptomatic infection and diarrhea in healthy people, it may lead to severe illness in immunocompromised individuals. Limited, effective therapeutic alternatives are available against cryptosporidiosis in those categories of patients. So, we are in urgent need of better drugs for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Fifty male Swiss albino mice were used. Mice were grouped into five groups of ten mice each. Group I was left uninfected, and four groups were infected with 1000 oocysts of cryptosporidium. The first infected group was left untreated. The remaining three-infected groups received nitazoxanide (NTZ), eugenol, and eugenol + NTZ, respectively, on the 6th day post infection (dpi) for five days. Mice were sacrificed on the 30th dpi. The efficacy of treatment was evaluated using parasitological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. Combination therapy of eugenol with NTZ caused a significant reduction of the number of oocysts secreted in stool and improved cryptosporidiosis-induced liver injury manifested by the restoration of normal levels of liver enzymes (ALT and AST). Treatment with eugenol-NTZ combination maintained a well-balanced antioxidant status, as evidenced by a reduced level of nitric oxide (NO) and increased antioxidant Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity. Moreover, the combination of eugenol with NTZ resulted in the restoration of the normal morphology of intestinal villi, crypts, and muscularis mucosa. Based on the findings extracted from the present work, we can conclude that eugenol is a complementary therapeutic when used with NTZ in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. The addition of eugenol to NTZ in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis synergized the effect of NTZ, causing a greater reduction of the number of shedded oocysts, improving liver enzyme levels, and restoring normal intestinal pathology. Therefore, we presume that eugenol's antioxidant capacity accounts for the protective effect seen in the current study. We suggest eugenol as a supplemental chemotherapeutic agent with good therapeutic potential and high levels of safety in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis based on the findings of the current study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine physiology is a complex subject for students. Game-based learning (GBL) and case-based learning (CBL) are active methodologies that are widely used because of their potential for motivation and greater proximity to the reality of modern students. We evaluated the effectiveness of GBL and CBL among veterinary medicine students compared with a control group using peer tutoring. Students (n = 106) from two institutions volunteered to participate in this study. The participants were submitted to a pretest questionnaire and subsequently were divided into three paired groups by their performance on the pretest exam: 1) traditional class + peer tutoring, 2) traditional class + GBL, and 3) traditional class + CBL. After the students completed the activities, their performance was once again evaluated by applying a new test with the same initial 10 questions and another set of 10 different questions. The students' perceptions and satisfaction with the methodologies and learning strategies were assessed. Anxiety was assessed with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory before and after the conventional class and after the active methodologies. The GBL group significantly improved their correct answers compared with the baseline (P < 0.05), with no significant difference from CBL and peer tutoring. Anxiety levels did not differ regardless of the time of evaluation or the teaching methodology applied. GBL promoted a greater perception of the stimulus for self-study and problem-solving ability and contributed to the development of group dynamics compared with the group who received CBL (P < 0.05). In conclusion, GBL showed better results than peer tutoring and CBL. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We compared the supplementary use of game-based learning, case-based learning, and peer tutoring in the study of endocrine physiology by veterinary students and observed a slight advantage for game-based learning over the other two methodologies. The game was developed by the authors and is an unprecedented tool that can prove useful to improve knowledge acquisition in students of veterinary medicine. Thus, game-based learning is an effective supplementary teaching strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multidisciplinary nature of physiology requires students to acquire, retain, apply, and evaluate knowledge from different scientific disciplines. Optimal learning techniques, such as active learning, interleaving topics and conditions, and recall, can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness with which students achieve this type of higher-order thinking. However, developing and implementing optimal learning techniques in the classroom can be both time-intensive and challenging for the instructor. In addition, students may be resistant or slow to accept novel learning processes. One way to potentially introduce these learning techniques in a fun and engaging way is through educational gaming, or using a game or game elements intentionally to support learning. In this article we present an easy-to-implement adaptation of the Codenames board game for the physiology classroom. The activity requires minimal preparation while addressing high-level learning outcomes. Postintervention surveys of students were collected in three different health-related academic programs, both graduate and undergraduate, at two different institutions. Results suggest that participating in the activity both actively engaged the students and pushed them toward high-level, integrative thinking regardless of class level. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: An easy-to-implement word game (Codenames) was used to engage students in higher-level Bloom's thinking about physiology. The gameplay required students to recall, apply, evaluate, and debate as they developed and guessed clues as part of the game. Students found the activity fun, engaging, and challenging. The activity is relatively easy to implement both online and in person, requiring at minimum a simple list of vocabulary terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore technological advances and prospects in phenol treatment by providing a detailed bibliometric survey of wastewater treatment applications, highlighting innovative advances in research. Using the Web of Science database, we identified 79,104 articles from 2003 to 2023, later refined to 1848. The keywords were used for the initial search: "phenol", "wastewater", "degradation", "treatment" and "removal". The bibliographic review details the occurrence of journals, authors, newspapers, countries, institutions, keywords, highly cited articles, and prominent predominant research fields. In particular, the field of "Engineering" was responsible for 32% of the published articles, followed by "Ecology of Environmental Sciences" (25%) and "Chemistry" (12%). In addition, a keyword analysis revealed five major groups of clusters that indicate where the research is progressing. This aspect is crucial for understanding the evolution and perspectives of research interests over time. Therefore, future research in the field should prioritize wastewater treatment and feedstock diversification. This focus is essential to address significant challenges, such as production costs, stability, and durability of treatment processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Saúde e Pesquisa is the property of Saude e Pesquisa and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Liver transplantation is a highly complex and challenging field of clinical practice. Although it was originally developed in western countries, it has been further advanced in Asian countries through the use of living donor liver transplantation. This method of transplantation is the only available option in many countries in the Asia-Pacific region due to the lack of deceased organ donation. As a result of this clinical situation, there is a growing need for guidelines that are specific to the Asia-Pacific region. These guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations for evidence-based management throughout the entire process of liver transplantation, covering both deceased and living donor liver transplantation. In addition, the development of these guidelines has been a collaborative effort between medical professionals from various countries in the region. This has allowed for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to a more comprehensive and effective set of guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aim: The pathogenesis of chronic diabetes complications has oxidative stress as one of the major elements, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes belonging to antioxidant pathways modulate susceptibility to these complications. Considering that melatonin is a powerful antioxidant compound, our aim was to explore, in a longitudinal cohort study of type 1 diabetes (T1D) individuals, the association of microvascular complications and SNPs in the gene encoding melatonin receptor 1A (MTNR1A). Methods: Eight SNPs in MTNR1A were genotyped in 489 T1D individuals. Besides cross-sectional analyses of SNPs with each one of the microvascular complications (distal polyneuropathy, cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, retinopathy, and diabetic kidney disease), a longitudinal analysis evaluated the associations of SNPs with renal function decline in 411 individuals followed up for a median of 8 years. In a subgroup of participants, the association of complications with urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) concentration was investigated. Results: The group of individuals with a renal function decline ≥ 5 mLmin-1 1.73 m-2 year-1 presented a higher frequency of the A allele of rs4862705 in comparison with nondecliners, even after adjustment for confounding variables (OR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.20-2.82; p = 0.0046). No other significant associations were found. Conclusions: This is the first study showing an association between a variant in a gene belonging to the melatonin system and renal function decline in the diabetic setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pepper leaf curl virus (PepLCV) disease spread by Begomovirus and infected by whiteflies, is the most destructive disease of pepper worldwide. The genetic basis of resistance to PepLCV was studied in F1 and F2 generations developed from Punjab Lal (P1) x Kashi Anmol (P2) and back cross population (B1 and B2) for segregation analysis following a mixed inheritance model. Analysis of the segregation data revealed that PepLCV resistance in Punjab Lal is controlled by pooled additive genes and additive × additive polygenes. Whereas, the F2 Mendelian population was segregated into 1:3 genetic ratio and showed monogenic recessive gene action. A total of 132 F2:3 families were evaluated for PepLCV resistance in two separate trials identified eight QTLs on five linkage groups (LG1, LG3, LG5, LG7 and LG8). Out of eight QTLs, six were stable in both the trials except QPlcv.teri.1.1 and QPlcv.teri.8.4. The six QTLs identified in both seasons together explained 69.36% (F3/1st trial) and 58.69% (F3/2nd trial) of the total phenotypic variation. Three major QTLs were observed on LG8 QPlcv.teri.8.1, QPlcv.teri.8.2 and QPlcv.teri.8.3 explained 7.82, 34.23 and 14.27 in F3/1st trial whereas 5.86, 28.99 and 12.02 in F3/2nd trial, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruminococcus gnavus (R. gnavus) is a gram-positive anaerobe commonly resides in the human gut microbiota. The advent of metagenomics has linked R. gnavus with various diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, and diabetes mellitus (DM), which has become a growing area of investigation. The initial focus of research primarily centered on assessing the abundance of R. gnavus and its potential association with disease presentation, taking into account variations in sample size, sequencing and analysis methods. However, recent investigations have shifted towards elucidating the underlying mechanistic pathways through which R. gnavus may contribute to disease manifestation. In this comprehensive review, we aim to provide an updated synthesis of the current literature on R. gnavus in the context of IBD, obesity, and DM. We critically analyze relevant studies and summarize the potential molecular mediators implicated in the association between R. gnavus and these diseases. Across numerous studies, various molecules such as methylation-controlled J (MCJ), glucopolysaccharides, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), interleukin(IL)-10, IL-17, and capric acid have been proposed as potential contributors to the link between R. gnavus and IBD. Similarly, in the realm of obesity, molecules such as hydrogen peroxide, butyrate, and UDCA have been suggested as potential mediators, while glycine ursodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA) has been implicated in the connection between R. gnavus and DM. Furthermore, it is imperative to emphasize the necessity for additional studies to evaluate the potential efficacy of targeting pathways associated with R. gnavus as a viable strategy for managing these diseases. These findings have significantly expanded our understanding of the functional role of R. gnavus in the context of IBD, obesity, and DM. This review aims to offer updated insights into the role and potential mechanisms of R. gnavus, as well as potential strategies for the treatment of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arboriculture & Urban Forestry is the property of International Society of Arboriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The gutmicrobiome is a heterogeneous population ofmicrobes comprising viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Such a microbiome is essential for sustaining host equilibrium, and its impact on human health can be altered by a variety of factors such as external variables, social behavior, age, nutrition, and genetics. Gut microbes' imbalances are related to a variety of chronic diseases including cancer, obesity, and digestive disorders. Globally, recent findings show that intestinal microbes have a significant role in the formation of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is still the primary cause of fatalities. Atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, inflammation, and some inherited variables are all cardiovascular risk variables. However, studies found correlations betweenmetabolism, intestinal flora, and dietary intake. Variations in the diversity of gut microbes and changes in their activity are thought to influence CVD etiology. Furthermore, the gut microbiota acts as an endocrine organ, producing bioactive metabolites such as TMA (trimethylamine)/TMAO (trimethylamine Noxide), SCFA (short-chain fatty acids), and bile acids, which have a substantial impact on host wellness and disease by multiple mechanisms. The purpose of this overview is to compile current evidence highlighting the intricate links between gut microbiota, metabolites, and the development of CVD. It focuses on how intestinal dysbiosis promotes CVD risk factors such as heart failure, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. This review explores the normal physiology of intestinal microbes and potential techniques for targeting gut bacteria for CVD treatment using various microbial metabolites. It also examines the significance of gut bacteria in disease treatment, including supplements, prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotic therapies, and fecal transplantation, which is an innovative approach to the management of CVD. As a result, gut bacteria and metabolic pathways become increasingly attractive as potential targets for CVD intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a known risk factor for the development of insulin resistance and other cardiometabolic disorders. Recently, the gut microbiome has been associated with obesity and subsequent health complications. Exercise has been regularly utilized as a therapeutic intervention to treat obesity and its associated comorbidities. This study examined the effects of a 6-wk resistance training exercise program (RT) on the diversity, composition, and metabolic pathways of the gut microbiome. Sedentary young adults (age 18-35 yr) with overweight and obesity (BMI 25-45 kg/m²) were recruited to participate in this randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized to RT (n = 16), a 6-wk resistance training program (3 days/wk), or control (CT) (n = 16), a nonexercising control. Main outcomes of the study included gut microbiome measures (taxa abundances, diversity, and predicted function) and cardiometabolic outcomes [blood pressure (BP) and glucoregulation]. Increased abundances of Roseburia, a shortchain fatty acid (SCFA) producer were observed over 6 wk (W6) with RT compared with CT (group × week, P < 0.05, q < 0.25). RT also induced marginal alterations in predicted microbial metabolic and cell motility pathways compared with CT (group x week, P < 0.05, q < 0.25). However, RT did not significantly impact overall microbial diversity. Furthermore, RT resulted in higher quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and lower diastolic BP at W6 compared with CT [baseline (BL)- adjusted P < 0.05]. RT had mixed effects on the gut microbiome. Although RT increased abundances of Roseburia and induced minor changes in microbial pathways, it is important to consider these changes in the context of the overall stability observed in the microbiome composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro experiments have shown that cell scale curvatures influence cell migration; cells avoid convex hills and settle in concave valleys. However, it is not known whether dynamic changes in curvature can guide cell migration. This study extends a previous in-silico model to explore the effects over time of changing the substrate curvature on cell migration guidance. By simulating a dynamic surface curvature using traveling wave patterns, we investigate the influence of wave height and speed, and find that long-distance cell migration guidance can be achieved on specific wave patterns. We propose a mechanistic explanation of what we call dynamic curvotaxis and highlight those cellular features that may be involved. Our results open a new area of study for understanding cell mobility in dynamic environments, from single-cell in vitro experiments to multi-cellular in vivo mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Foot pain has been associated to factors like: fat, body mass index, age increased, female gender and the presence of pathologies. Although evidence is limited. The purpose is to determine the predictive factors for foot pain in the adult population. Methods: From January to December 2021, 457 patients were > 18 years, gave signed informed consent to take part to this cross sectional study. All completed demographic data and various questionnaires related to pain: Foot Function Index, EuroQoL-5D and Visual Analogue Scale (foot pain). Anthropometric measurements were obtained using McPoil platform and foot posture was assessed by the Foot Posture Index (FPI). To determine whether a volume change is a predictive factor for foot pain, a parameter was established: the volumetric index for footwear (VIF). Factors linked to the presence of pain, including the considered VIF variables, were analyzed through multivariable logistic regression. Results: Among the study population, 40.7% were male and 59.3% female. The mean age of 39.06 years and a body mass index of 25.58 Kg/cm2. The logistic regression model had a classification capability of 72.4%, a sensitivity of 72.3% and a specificity of 73%, in which, the predictors considered were the variables found to have a significant association with FFI-pain > 45 points,, showed that younger women, with a higher BMI, higher values of right FPI (pronation), poorer overall perceived health and with problems in walking were more likely to experience foot pain. Conclusion: Predictive factors for foot pain in the adult population include gender, age, Body Mass Index, FPI on the right foot, perceived health and mobility. Clinical implication, the presented measure aids physicians in assessing their patients´ foot pain likelihood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Mexicana de Odontología Pediátrica (2594-1798) is the property of Academia Mexicana de Odontologia Pediatrica, A. C. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The leaf curl disease (ToLCD), late blight (LB) and root knot nematode (RKN) are the major obstacles for rainy season tomato production all over the world. Several tactics are being considered for the management of these diseases. Reportedly, the most efficient way to manage these multiple diseases is to adopt resistant cultivars. Though, work on development of resistant cultivars against multiple diseases are very confined due to non-availability of the resistant sources. In the present study, BC2F6 population comprising 132 elite tomato lines were evaluated using different screening techniques including marker assisted selection (MAS) during 2019–2020 and 2020–2021. Punjab Chuhhara (check) was used as susceptible for all three diseases, while PVB-4, LBR-10 and NR-14 were the resistant checks for ToLCD, LB and RKN, respectively. The lines which showed resistance and moderately resistance responses under field and artificial conditions were exposed for MAS of major resistant genes (Ty-1, Ty-2, Ty-3, Ph-2, Ph-3 and Mi-1.2). PDRT-104, PDRT-118, PDRT-122, PDRT-124 and PDRT-125 were found to provide multiple disease resistant. There was significant correlation between the phenotypic and genotypic based screening. The resistant lines identified in the present evaluation can be utilized to develop cultivars for potential durable resistance to multiple diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic improvement is crucial for ensuring food security globally. Indeed, plant breeding has contributed significantly to increasing the productivity of major crops, including rice, over the last century. Evaluating the efficiency of breeding strategies necessitates a quantification of this progress. One approach involves assessing the genetic gain achieved through breeding programs based on quantitative traits. This study aims to provide a theoretical understanding of genetic gain, summarize the major results of genetic gain studies in rice breeding, and suggest ways of improving breeding program strategies and future studies on genetic gain. To achieve this, we present the concept of genetic gain and the essential aspects of its estimation. We also provide an extensive literature review of genetic gain studies in rice (Oryza sativa L.) breeding programs to understand the advances made to date. We reviewed 29 studies conducted between 1999 and 2023, covering different regions, traits, periods, and estimation methods. The genetic gain for grain yield, in particular, showed significant variation, ranging from 1.5 to 167.6 kg/ha/year, with a mean value of 36.3 kg/ha/year. This translated into a rate of genetic gain for grain yield ranging from 0.1% to over 3.0%. The impact of multi-trait selection on grain yield was clarified by studies that reported genetic gains for other traits, such as plant height, days to flowering, and grain quality. These findings reveal that while breeding programs have achieved significant gains, further improvements are necessary to meet the growing demand for rice. We also highlight the limitations of these studies, which hinder accurate estimations of genetic gain. In conclusion, we offer suggestions for improving the estimation of genetic gain based on quantitative genetic principles and computer simulations to optimize rice breeding strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myrciaria floribunda is a plant that is distributed across different Brazilian biomes such as the Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest, and it possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the essential oil from M. floribunda leaves (MfEO) were examined in this study using mouse models. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was employed to describe the oil, and the results revealed that δ-cadinene, bicyclogermacrene, α-cadinol, and epi-α-muurolol predominated in the chemical profile. The oil stimulated a decrease in nociception in the chemical and thermal models used to evaluate acute antinociceptive activity. Findings from the use of pain pathway blockers to study the presumed underlying mechanism indicated opioid pathway activity. The anti-edematogenic effect, decreased cell migration, and generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines provided evidence of the anti-inflammatory potential of the essential oil from M. floribunda. According to this research, the essential oil from M. floribunda can effectively alleviate acute pain and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Diabetic foot infections (DFIs) are the most common complications of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), and a significant cause of lower extremity amputation. In this study we used whole genome sequencing to characterize the clonal composition, virulence and resistance genetic determinants of 58 Staphylococcus/Mammaliicoccus spp. isolates from contralateral healthy skin and DFU from 44 hospitalized patients. Results: S. aureus (n = 32) and S. epidermidis (n = 10) isolates were recovered from both DFUs and healthy skin, whereas, S. haemolyticus (n = 8), M. sciuri (n = 1), S. hominis (n = 1) and S. simulans (n = 3) were recovered exclusively from healthy skin. In contrast, S. caprae (n = 2) and S. saprophyticus (n = 1) were recovered only from DFUs. Among S. aureus isolates, MRSA were present with high prevalence (27/32, 84.4%), 18 of which (66.7%) were from DFUs and 9 (33.3%) from healthy skin. In contrast, the coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS)/Mammaliicoccus isolates (n = 26), in particular S. epidermidis and S. haemolyticus were more prevalent in healthy skin, (10/26, 38.5%) and (8/26, 30.8%), respectively. MLST, spa and SCCmec typing classified the 32 S. aureus isolates into 6 STs, ST672, ST80, ST241, ST1, ST97, ST291 and 4 unknown STs (STNF); 8 spa types, t044, t037, t3841, t1247, t127, t639, t937 and t9432 and 2 SCCmec types, type IV and type III(A). Among CoNS, the S. epidermidis isolates belonged to ST54, ST35 and ST640. S. haemolyticus belonged to ST3, ST25, ST29, ST1 and ST56. The sole M. sciuri isolate was found to carry an SCCmec type III(A). A wide range of virulence genes and antimicrobial resistance genes were found among our isolates, with varying distribution between species or STs. The pan-genome analysis revealed a highly clonal population of Staphylococcus isolates, particularly among S. aureus isolates. Interestingly, the majority of S. aureus isolates including MRSA, recovered from the healthy skin and DFUs of the same patient belonged to the same clone and exhibited similar virulence/resistance genotype. Conclusions: Our study provides clinically relevant information on the population profile, virulence and antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus/Mammaliicoccus spp. in DFIs, which could serve as a basis for further studies on these as well as other groups of pathogens associated with DFIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]