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Field experiments during rabi seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19 were conducted to asses the groundnut production, soil biological characteristics, micronutrient content in soil and plant parts, and their uptake influenced by graded levels of phosphorus (15, 30, 45 and 60 kg ha−1), Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) application in Alfisols at Botany farm, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli in a factorial randomized block design with twenty treatment combinations which were replicated thrice. Results indicated that higher dose of phosphours (60 kg ha−1), biofertilizers (AMF + PSB @ 10 kg ha−1 each) and their interaction was found prominent in augmenting the highest bacterial, actinomycetes, fungal populations. Further, the combined application of phosphate and the AMF and PSB strain at higher level significantly improved the enzyme activities viz., dehydrogenase, urease, alkaline and acid phosphatase, CO2 evolution and SMBC compared to lower dose of phosphorus and non-inoculated treatment was on par with application of phosphorus @ 45 kg ha−1 with dual inoculation of AMF + PSB @ 10 kg ha−1 each. However, DTPA-extractable micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) status showed significant improvement because of various treatment combinations. Similarly, the application of phosphorus @ 60 kg ha−1 exhibited the highest uptake in edible portion of crops which was resulted in significantly highest pod yield (35.86 q ha−1) of groundnut which was at par with application of phosphorus @ 45 kg ha−1 (31.96 q ha−1) indicating beneficial effect for improving as well sustaining soil health in long term aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectophosphatases catalyse the hydrolysis of phosphorylated molecules, such as phospho‐amino acids, in the extracellular environment. Nevertheless, the hydrolysis of nucleotides in the extracellular environment is typically catalysed by ectonucleotidases. Studies have shown that acid ectophosphatase, or transmembrane‐prostatic acid phosphatase (TM‐PAP), a membrane‐bound splice variant of prostatic acid phosphatase, has ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase activity. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that ectophosphatase cannot hydrolyse ATP, ADP, or AMP in triple‐negative breast cancer cells. In contrast to previous findings in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, the ectophosphatase studied in the present work displayed a remarkable capacity to hydrolyse AMP in luminal A breast cancer cells (MCF‐7). We showed that AMP dose‐dependently inhibited p‐nitrophenylphosphate (p‐NPP) hydrolysis. The p‐NPP and AMP hydrolysis showed similar biochemical behaviours, such as increased hydrolysis under acidic conditions and comparable inhibition by NiCl2, ammonium molybdate, and sodium orthovanadate. In addition, this ectophosphatase with ectonucleotidase activity was essential for the release of adenosine and inorganic phosphate from phosphorylated molecules available in the extracellular microenvironment. This is the first study to show that prostatic acid phosphatase on the membrane surface of breast cancer cells (MCF‐7) is correlated with cell adhesion and migration. Highlights: A transmembrane prostatic acid phosphatase (TM‐PAP) is expressed in luminal A MCF‐7 breast cancer cells.Ectonucleotidase activity by TM‐PAP was observed in MCF‐7 cells.The presence of prostatic acid phosphatase on the membrane surface is correlated with cell adhesion and migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preventing the decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) is significant for postmenopausal women. We previously discovered that rhamnose, a deoxy monosaccharide used as a food additive, could suppress bone resorption; however, studies confirming this effect in postmenopausal women are lacking. Therefore, this pilot study aimed to explore whether rhamnose could help maintain BMD via bone resorption suppression in postmenopausal women. The participants consumed either 1.0 or 0.5 g/day of rhamnose or placebo for 24 weeks, and BMD (lumbar spine and femur) and bone turnover markers were measured. After 24 weeks, the group consuming rhamnose 1.0 g/day exhibited a significantly higher BMD of the lumbar spine than the placebo group. Furthermore, the levels of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, a bone resorption marker, were significantly lower in both rhamnose groups. These results indicated that rhamnose might contribute to the maintenance of BMD by suppressing bone resorption in healthy postmenopausal women (UMIN000046570). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Changes in the rhizosphere microbiome and metabolites resulting from crop intercropping can significantly enhance crop growth. While there has been an increasing number of studies on various crop combinations, research on the intercropping of tobacco and maize at seedling stage remains limited. Methods: This study is the first to explore rhizosphere effects of intercropping between tobacco and maize seedling stages, we analyzed the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium nutrients in the soil, and revealed the important effects on soil microbial community composition and metabolite profiles, thereby regulating crop growth and improving soil balance. Results and discussion: Compared with mono-cropping, intercropping increased the biomass of the two crops and promoted the nutrient absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Under intercropping conditions, the activities of sucrase, catalase and nitrate reductase in tobacco rhizosphere soil and the content of available potassium, the activities of nitrate reductase and acid phosphatase in maize rhizosphere soil were significantly increasing. Rhizosphere soil bacterial and fungal communities such as Sphingomonas, Massilia, Humicola and Penicillium respond differently to crop planting patterns, and soil dominant microbial communities are regulated by environmental factors such as pH, Organic Matter, Available Potassium, Nitrate Reductase, and Urease Enzyme. Network analysis showed that soil microbial communities were more complex after intercropping, and the reciprocal relationship between bacteria and fungi was enhanced. The difference of metabolites in soil between intercropping and monocropping system was mainly concentrated in galactose metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism pathway, and the content of carbohydrate metabolites was significantly higher than that of monocropping soil. Key metabolites such as D-Sucrose, D-Fructose-6-Phosphate, D-Glucose-1-Phosphatel significantly influence the composition of dominant microbial communities such as Sphingomonas and Penicillium. This study explained the effects of intercropping between flue-cured tobacco and maize on the content of soil metabolites and soil microbial composition in rhizosphere soil, and deepened the understanding that intercropping system can improve the growth of flue-cured crops seedlings through rhizosphere effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion To evaluate Hyuganatsu oranges (Citrus tamurana Hort. Ex Tanaka) derived arabinogalactan for bone turnover, we performed a randomized placebo‐controlled trial.Sixty‐three postmenopausal women were age‐stratified and randomly assigned to receive arabinogalactan‐rich hyuganatsu juice (study group) or a placebo drink (control group) for 90 days. We measured blood tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP5b), type I procollagen N‐terminal propeptide (P1NP), and other bone turnover biomarker levels at baseline, days 45 and 90 (T90) of the intervention, and day 30 of recovery. Cumulative effects were compared between groups using repeated‐measures linear mixed model analysis. The primary endpoint was the difference between the pre‐ and post‐intervention TRACP5b and P1NP levels.Using repeated measures linear mixed model analysis, the study group had significantly lower TRACP5b and P1NP levels at day 90 than the control group (mean [95% confidence interval]; TRACP5b: 310.0 [269.2–350.9] vs. 386.4 [341.2–431.6] mU/dL; P1NP: 53.7 [48.6–58.7] vs. 70.3 [64.1–76.4] ng/mL), whereas other biomarker levels showed no change.Arabinogalactan‐rich Hyuganatsu juice suppressed bone mineral turnover and potentially improved ovarian hormone deficiency‐induced osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the suspension cage culture procedure, a substantial quantity of attachments from the suspension cage will amass in the tidal flats, resulting in environmental pollution and resource wastage. The aim of the present study was to explore the feasibility of using attachments of suspension cage (ASC) as a raw feed material for sea cucumbers. Different ASC concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) were used in sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) fed for 60 d. Replacing sea mud with 50% ASC significantly improved sea cucumber growth, reduced the feed coefficient, significantly increased the activity of intestinal digestive enzymes, improved the activities of acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase, improved the intestinal structure, and enriched intestinal microbiome diversity (P<0.05). Replacing sea mud with 75% and 100% ASC significantly improved sea cucumber total antioxidant capacity and total superoxide dismutase (P<0.05). Furthermore, expressions of c-myc gene, mapk-7 gene and fgfr-1 gene, which all three growth genes, significantly increased in the 50% ASC treatment compared to that in the control; whereas, that of gdf-8 gene, a negative growth regulator, was inhibited (P<0.05). Based on the quadratic regression analysis for the weight gain rate, the appropriate levels of ASC substitution were estimated as to be 44.28%. The results suggested the potential of ASC as a new raw feed material for sea cucumbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Piscirickettsia salmonis, the causative agent of Piscirickettsiosis, poses a significant threat to the Chilean aquaculture industry, resulting in substantial economic losses annually. The pathogen, first identified as specie in 1992, this pathogen was divided into two genogroups: LF-89 and EM-90, associated with different phenotypic mortality and pathogenicity. Traditional genotyping methods, such as multiplex PCR, are effective but limited by their cost, equipment requirements, and the need for specialized expertise. Methods: This study validates Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) as a rapid and specific alternative for diagnosing P. salmonis infections. We developed the first qPCR and LAMP assay targeting the species-conserved tonB receptor gene (tonB-r, WP_016210144.1) for the specific species-level identification of P. salmonis. Additionally, we designed two genotyping LAMP assays to differentiate between the LF-89 and EM-90 genogroups, utilizing the unique coding sequences Nitronate monooxygenase (WP_144420689.1) for LF-89 and Acid phosphatase (WP_016210154.1) for EM-90. Results: The LAMP assays demonstrated sensitivity and specificity comparable to real-time PCR, with additional benefits including rapid results, lower costs, and simplified operation, making them particularly suitable for field use. Specificity was confirmed by testing against other salmonid pathogens, such as Renibacterium salmoninarum, Vibrio ordalii, Flavobacterium psychrophilum, Tenacibaculum maritimum, and Aeromonas salmonicida, with no cross-reactivity observed. Discussion: The visual detection method and precise differentiation between genogroups underscore LAMP's potential as a robust diagnostic tool for aquaculture. This advancement in the specie detection (qPCR and LAMP) and genotyping of P. salmonis represents a significant step forward in disease management within the aquaculture industry. The implementation of LAMP promises enhanced disease surveillance, early detection, and improved management strategies, ultimately benefiting the salmonid aquaculture sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypoxia stress resulted in mortality during the fish aquaculture program, affecting the sustainable development of the aquaculture industry. The Egyptian strain of O. niloticus showed a strong ability to hypoxia. In this study, a Nile tilapia strain that was kept and selected for 45 years by the author's team was used to elucidate the mechanism of the hypoxia response in the liver, including the identification of metabolic pathways and genes, involved in the hypoxia response of this strain. Results: The effects of hypoxia stress were detected at 0-hour, 6-hour, and 72-hour time points (0 h, 6 h, 72 h) on tilapia liver at 1 mg/L dissolved oxygen conditions. The blood triglyceride, blood glucose and cholesterol values exhibited significantly different change trends, but the hemoglobin content showed no significant differences between 0 h, 6 h and 72 h (P > 0.05). The activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and acid phosphatase (ACP) in the liver tissue gradually increased at 0 h, 6 h and 72 h (P < 0.05). Histological analyses revealed structural changes in intracellular lipid droplets, nuclear migration and dissolution, and cell vacuolization in liver tissues. Six pathways were identified as the main enriched metabolic pathways according to the transcriptome profiling analysis, which were protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, steroid biosynthesis, peroxisome, PPAR signaling pathway, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and Insulin signaling pathway. The expressions of the important differentially expressed genes were verified by qPCR analysis, including erola, LOC100692144, sqle, cratb, pipox, cpt1a2b, hik and acss2l, ehhadh, prkcz, fasn and plaa, which showed the same expressions trends as those of RNA-Seq. Conclusions: The Nile tilapia strain improves the abilities of hypoxia response through energy metabolism. Antioxidant enzyme measurements in the liver indicate that these five antioxidant enzymes play important roles in protecting the body from hypoxic damage. The histological changes in liver cells indicate that the damage caused by hypoxia stress. The immune-related metabolic pathways and energy metabolism-related pathways were obtained by transcriptome profiling, and these metabolic pathways and the differentially expressed genes selected from these metabolic pathways may be involved in the mechanism of hypoxia tolerance in this strain. These findings provide a better understanding of the hypoxia response mechanism of fish, and represent a useful resource for the genetic breeding of O. niloticus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly stable copper nanocluster (CuNCs) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties was synthesized. α-, β-, and γ- MnO2 were utilized as quenchers, with CuNCs fluorescence quenching of 48.9%, 91.5%, and 96.6%, respectively. L-ascorbate-2-phosphate (AAP) was hydrolyzed by acid phosphatase (ACP), and ascorbic acid (AA) was formed. Then, MnO2 could be restored by AA, and the fluorescence of the CuNCs could be restored. An on–off–on detection platform with a high signal/noise ratio was constructed for the sensing of ACP. The fluorescence recovery rate of the CuNCs was related to the crystal forms of MnO2. Then, the equilibrium constants (K) for the reaction between AA and MnO2 were calculated to evaluate the reaction process. Compared with the K values of CuNCs/α-MnO2 and CuNCs/γ-MnO2, the K values for AA and β-MnO2 were maximum. The CuNCs/β-MnO2 system exhibited optimal fluorescence recovery for the sensitive detection of ACP. In the concentration range 0.005–0.06 U/mL, the detection limit was 0.0028 U/mL. The determination of serum ACP levels also revealed satisfactory results. This study provides novel insights into enhancing the sensitivity of the determination of quenchers in different crystal form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) is a wild fish species that is both commercially and ecologically valuable and is found in the Adriatic Sea. To better understand its distribution and physiology, this study examined the digestive enzymes in various parts of the barracuda's gastrointestinal system using histochemical analyses. This is the first known study to evaluate the activity of aminopeptidase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, and non-specific esterase in the pyloric caeca and the anterior, middle, and posterior segments of the European barracuda's gastrointestinal tract. In this study, we examined the gastrointestinal tract of the European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) living in the Adriatic Sea near Dubrovnik, Croatia. The study aimed to identify the presence and distribution of four digestive enzymes: alkaline phosphatase, aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase, and non-specific esterase. We found that alkaline phosphatase activity was present in the brush border of the enterocytes in all the investigated intestinal segments. The activity of the alkaline phosphatase was the strongest in the pyloric caeca but strong only in the basal part of the intestinal villi in the anterior and middle intestinal segments. In the posterior intestinal segment, alkaline phosphatase had strong activity along the entire villi. The activity of acid phosphatase was weak in all the investigated parts of the intestine, except in the posterior part, where it was moderate. Aminopeptidase was detected in the brush border of the intestinal epithelium, with stronger activity in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine and weaker activity posteriorly. The activity of the non-specific esterase was moderate in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine, while it was weak in the posterior segment and the lamina propria in all parts of the digestive tract. Weak acid phosphatase activity was observed only in the lamina propria of the posterior part of the intestine. This study is the first to evaluate the activity of digestive enzymes in the European barracuda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chordomas are malignant tumors that destroy bones, compress surrounding nerve tissues and exhibit phenotypes that recapitulate notochordal differentiation in the axial skeleton. Chordomas recur frequently, as they resist radio-chemotherapy and are difficult to completely resect, leading to repeated bone destruction and local expansion via unknown mechanisms. Here, using chordoma specimens and JHC7 chordoma cells, we asked whether chordoma cells possess bone-dissolving activity. Methods: CT imaging and histological analysis were performed to evaluate the structure and mineral density of chordoma-invaded bone and osteolytic marker expression. JHC7 cells were subjected to immunocytochemistry, imaging of cell fusion, calcium dynamics and acidic vacuoles, and bone lysis assays. Results: In patients, we found that the skull base invaded by chordoma was highly porous, showed low mineral density and contained brachyury-positive chordoma cells and conventional osteoclasts both expressing the osteolytic markers tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and collagenases. JHC7 cells expressed TRAP and cathepsin K, became multinucleated via cell-cell fusion, showed spontaneous calcium oscillation, and were partly responsive to the osteoclastogenic cytokine RANKL. JHC7 cells exhibited large acidic vacuoles, and nonregulatory bone degradation without forming actin rings. Finally, bone-derived factors, calcium ions, TGF-β1, and IGF-1 enhanced JHC7 cell proliferation. Conclusion: In chordoma, we propose that in addition to conventional bone resorption by osteoclasts, chordoma cells possess bone-dissolving activity at the tumor-bone boundary. Furthermore, bone destruction and tumor expansion may occur in a positive feedback loop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Investigation of the therapeutic effect of zoledronic acid (ZA) in a preclinical model of jaw osteosarcoma (JO). Materials and Methods: The effect of 100 μg/kg ZA administered twice a week was assessed in a xenogenic mouse model of JO. The clinical (tumor growth, development of lung metastasis), radiological (bone microarchitecture by micro‐CT analysis), and molecular and immunohistochemical (TRAP, RANK/RANKL, VEGF, and CD146) parameters were investigated. Results: Animals receiving ZA exhibited an increased tumor volume compared with nontreated animals (71.3 ± 14.3 mm3 vs. 51.9 ± 19.9 mm3 at D14, respectively; p = 0.06) as well as increased numbers of lung metastases (mean 4.88 ± 4.45 vs. 0.50 ± 1.07 metastases, respectively; p = 0.02). ZA protected mandibular bone against tumor osteolysis (mean bone volume of 12.81 ± 0.53 mm3 in the ZA group vs. 11.55 ± 1.18 mm3 in the control group; p = 0.01). ZA induced a nonsignificant decrease in mRNA expression of the osteoclastic marker TRAP and an increase in RANK/RANKL bone remodeling markers. Conclusion: The use of bisphosphonates in the therapeutic strategy for JO should be further explored, as should the role of bone resorption in the pathophysiology of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The alpha-emitting radionuclide therapy [223Ra]RaCl2 (Radium-223) improves overall survival (OS) and time to symptomatic skeletal event (SSE) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Evidence suggests that the effect of Radium-223 is partly exerted through an impact on the surrounding bone matrix. We hypothesized that bone metabolism markers (BMM) could provide predictive information regarding response to Radium-223. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate changes in BMM during Radium-223 therapy and evaluate association with clinical outcome. Methods: Prospective study of BMM in patients with mCRPC receiving Radium-223. Blood samples were collected before each administration of Radium-223 and the following BMM were quantified; bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), osteocalcin, procollagen type I N-propeptide (PINP), C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen generated by matrix metalloproteinases (CTX-MMP), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoform 5b (TRACP5b), receptor-activated nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and sclerostin. Clinical outcomes were scintigraphic progression during/after therapy, change in bone scan index (BSI), occurrence of SSE, and OS. Results: A total of 55 mCRPC patients were included. There was a significant linear association between skeletal extent of disease and CTX-MMP, PINP, BALP, and osteocalcin. No significant association between dynamics in BSI and BMM were detected. Median OS for the cohort was 14 months (95% CI: 10.7–16.8). Baseline levels of Log2-CTX-MMP (HR = 2.15 (95%CI: 1.1–4.1)) and Log2-BALP (HR = 1.59 (95%CI: 1.1–2.1)) were associated with OS. Patients with increasing CTX-MMP during therapy had significantly shorter OS (Median OS = 4 mo. (95%CI: 2.3–5.7)) than patients with stable or decreasing CTX-MMP (Median OS = 12 mo. (95%CI: 10.1–13.9), P < 0.001). Conclusion: BMM are significantly associated with scintigraphic extent of skeletal disease and OS in patients with mCRPC. Particularly, the bone resorption marker CTX-MMP is a promising surrogate marker for prediction of outcome in patients receiving Radium-223 therapy and could potentially improve selection of patients for therapy and assessment of response. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03247010. Registered 10th of August 2017, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03247010?term=NCT03247010&rank=1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil phosphorus (P) availability is a crucial factor determining primary productivity in terrestrial ecosystem. Plant functional traits and microbes under P‐deficient conditions can respond positively to increase soil P bioavailability. Whether and/or how the fine‐root traits (FRTs) of deep‐rooted desert species affect the rhizosphere and bulk soil community of phoD‐harbouring bacteria and thus improve the availability of soil P, however, remains unclear.We conducted a three‐year artificial outdoor pot experiment of P supply using Alhagi sparsifolia Shap. (hereafter Alhagi) to address this gap. Fine‐root samples from 1‐ and 3‐year‐old Alhagi seedlings and samples of the rhizospheres and bulk soil were collected. High‐throughput sequencing, sequential extraction and root system scanning were used to determine soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria community, Hedley‐P fractions and the FRTs.Fine‐root surface area (RSA), specific root length, foliar Mn concentration (indicating the quantities of root carboxylates that are released) and acid phosphatase (APase) activity were significantly higher in the no‐P supply compared with the high‐P supply conditions. APase activity was significantly higher by 27%, but the foliar Mn concentration was remarkably lower by 26%, in the 3‐ than the 1‐year‐old seedlings. The rhizospheric concentrations of labile P, moderately labile P, inorganic P and organic P in the no‐P supply condition were 5%, 11%, 10% and 21% higher, respectively, in the 3‐ than the 1‐year‐old seedlings. RSA and the foliar Mn concentration were dominated root predictors for the rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria community for the 1‐year‐old seedlings, whereas fine‐root P concentration was the dominated root predictor for the rhizospheric and bulk soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria communities for the 3‐year‐old seedlings. Soil water content, as the most dominant soil factor driving the variation of phoD‐harbouring bacteria community, notably could not be ignored. FRTs were the main factors that directly and positively determined rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria community and thus influenced soil P availability, but bulk soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria community were dominated by inorganic P concentration. The importance of fine‐root morphological traits to soil P availability gradually increased as the plants grew.Overall, our results emphasize the significance of rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria determined by the effect of FRTs on the bioavailability of soil P. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A zeolite pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council Infruitec-Nietvoorbij in Stellenbosch, South Africa, under greenhouse conditions. The experiment aimed to investigate the impact of zeolite application on soil enzyme activities in sandy soils cultivated with Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris Var. cicla) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea Var. capitata L.) over two years (2018-2019). Different zeolite-to-soil ratios (0:1, 1:9, 2:8, and 3:7 w/w) were used, with each pot containing 12 kg of soil. The experiment involved 72 pots for each vegetable, arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Soil enzyme activities, including acid phosphatase, ß-glucosidase, and urease, as well as soil chemical properties (pH, total plant-available nitrogen, organic carbon, and phosphorus), were analyzed. Key findings indicate that the effect of zeolite application on enzyme activities varied between the vegetable species. Zeolite application significantly increased (P<0.05) soil pH across all treatments. However, higher zeolite levels decreased (P<0.05) soil phosphorus availability, likely due to phosphorus adsorption by zeolite. Acid phosphatase activity decreased with rising zeolite levels, possibly due to increased soil pH. Additionally, zeolite application reduced (P<0.05) soil organic carbon, which may explain some of the enzyme activity responses. Alteration Index Three (AI3) scores suggested improved soil biological activity with zeolite application, although responses varied between crops. Cabbage soils showed improvement in all treatments, while Swiss chard soils exhibited mixed responses. In conclusion, while zeolite application can enhance soil pH and nutrient retention, it may also reduce phosphorus availability and organic carbon. The enzyme activity responses observed are complex and crop-specific, highlighting the need for tailored soil management practices. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impacts and optimal integration of zeolite with organic amendments for sustainable soil fertility management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Microbial agents + fertilizers boost bacterial richness in the rhizosphere soil. • Microbial agents + fertilizers resulted in a reduction of fungal diversity. • Microbial agents + fertilizer modify rhizosphere soil's microbial community structure. • Microbial agents + fertilizer reduce the pathogenic fungi. • Microbial agents + fertilizer significantly boost plant growth and yield of peanut. The soil harbors a diverse array of microorganisms, and these are essential components of terrestrial ecosystems. The presence of microorganisms in the soil, particularly in the rhizosphere, is closely linked to plant growth and soil fertility. The primary objective of this study is to assess the potential advantages of integrating microbial inoculants with compound fertilizer in enhancing peanut yield. We utilized Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology to conduct our investigation. The experimental design consists of four treatment groups: compound fertilizers (CF), compound fertilizers supplemented with microbial agents (CF + MA), compound fertilizers supplemented with microbial fertilizers (CF + MF), and compound fertilizers supplemented with both microbial agents and microbial fertilizers (CF + MM). The experimental results demonstrated a significant increase in peanut yield upon application of CF + MA, CF + MF, and CF + MM treatments. During the blossom stage and pod-setting stage, the soil's catalase, urease, and acid phosphatase activities were significantly increased in the CF + MA, and CF + MM treatments compared to the CF treatment. The application of CF + MA resulted in an increase in bacterial richness in the rhizosphere soil of peanuts, as indicated by the sequencing results. The application of CF + MA, CF + MF, and CF + MM resulted in a reduction of fungal diversity. Proteobacteria , Actinobacteria , and Acidobacteria were the dominant bacterial phyla, while Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the dominant phyla in the fungal component of the rhizosphere soil microbiome across all experimental treatments. Microbial agents and fertilizers modify the peanut rhizosphere soil's microbial community structure, as per our findings. The abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria (Bradyrhizobium , Rhizobium, and Burkholderia) and fungi (Trichoderma and Cladophialophora) could increase, while pathogenic fungi (Penicillium and Fusarium) decreased, thereby significantly promoting plant growth and yield of peanut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The worldwide prevalence of periodontitis is considerably high, and its pathogenic mechanisms must be investigated and understood in order to improve clinical treatment outcomes and reduce the disease prevalence and burden. The exacerbation of the host immune system induced by oral microbial dysbiosis and the subsequent tissue destruction are the hallmarks of the periodontitis. However, the oral bacteria involved in periodontitis are not fully understood. We used the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing system to analyze metagenomic information in subgingival dental plaque from periodontitis and non‐periodontitis patients. The number of Lactobacillus zeae (L. zeae) in the periodontitis patients was 17.55‐fold higher than in the non‐periodontitis patients, suggesting that L. zeae is a novel periodontitis‐associated pathogen. Although several Lactobacillus species are used in vivo as probiotics to treat periodontitis and compete with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), the roles of L. zeae in periodontitis progression, and the relationship between L. zeae and P. gingivalis needs to be investigated. Methods: Both L. zeae and P. gingivalis were inoculated in the ligature‐implant site of periodontitis mice. We collected mouse gingival crevicular fluid to analyze inflammatory cytokine secretion using a multiplex assay. Intact or sliced mouse maxilla tissue was used for micro‐computed tomography analysis or hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining to evaluate alveolar bone loss, neutrophil infiltration, and osteoclast activation, respectively. Results: We observed that L. zeae competed with P. gingivalis, and it increased inflammatory cytokine secretion at the ligature‐implant site. Similar to P. gingivalis, L. zeae promoted ligature‐induced neutrophile infiltration, osteoclast activation, and alveolar bone loss. Discussion: We, therefore, concluded that L. zeae accelerated the progression of periodontitis in the ligature‐induced periodontitis mouse model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a kind of green and high quality feed, fermented feed has the activity of promoting growth and improving immunity in aquaculture. The aim of this study was to develop a new liquid fermented feed for the culture of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus and evaluate its nutritional value and function. After the commercial feed of the sea cucumber was fermented by Corynebacterium glutamicum, the contents of crude protein, free amino acids, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, and the total content of polyunsaturated fatty acids were significantly increased. By feeding the fermented food, the weight gain rate, special growth rate and feed conversion rate of the sea cucumber were significantly increased, and the mortality rate was significantly reduced in the challenge test. The cellulase activity in the gut of the sea cucumber fed with the fermented feed was significantly increased, while the activities of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, total nitric oxide synthase, catalase, and lysozyme in the coelomic fluid were significantly increased. The fermented feed changed the gut microbiota of the sea cucumber and significantly reduced the relative abundance of Vibrio, which was the main pathogen causing skin ulcer syndrome. Transcriptome analysis revealed 4492 differentially expressed genes that can be enriched in biological processes such as immune system processes and immune responses, and affect the growth performance and immune regulation of the sea cucumber through metabolic pathways such as ribosomal biogenesis. Further gene expression analysis showed that the upregulation of genes such as NFκBI, TLR, TLR3, TRAF6, MyD88, and p38 activated the TLR signaling pathway and enhances the immune response of the sea cucumber. Therefore, C. glutamicum fermented feed can promote the growth of the sea cucumber, enhance non-specific immunity, and resist pathogen infection, making it a highly promising feed for application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cementum shares many properties with bone; however, in contrast to bone, it is not innervated or vascularized and has a limited capacity for remodeling. Osteocytes located in the lacunae-canalicular system of bone tissue play a central role in bone remodeling by communicating with osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Although cementocytes are present in cellular cementum and are morphologically similar to osteocytes, it remains unclear whether they are involved in the dynamic functional regulation of metabolism in cementum. The present study focused on the extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by cementocytes and examined their effects on osteoclasts and osteoblasts. EVs were extracted from the mouse cementocyte cell line, IDG-CM6. The effects of EVs on recombinant RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and recombinant Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2-mediated osteoblastogenesis were investigated using the mouse osteoclast progenitor cell line, RAW264.7 and mouse pre-osteoblast cell line, MC3T3-E1, respectively. EVs enhanced the formation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity-positive cells. Real-time PCR revealed that EVs up-regulated the expression of osteoclast-related genes. On the other hand, the cell culture supernatant of cementocytes significantly inhibited the differentiation of osteoclasts. Regarding osteoblastogenesis, EVs suppressed the expression of alkaline phosphatase, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin induced by recombinant BMP-2 at the gene and protein levels. A network of cementocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts may exist in cellular cementum, which suggests the involvement of cementocytes in dynamic metabolism of cementum through EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Umbelliferone (UMB) on the inflammation underlying alveolar bone resorption in mouse periodontitis. Methods: Male Swiss mice subjected to a ligature of molars were grouped as non‐treated (NT), received UMB (15, 45, or 135 mg/kg) or saline daily for 7 days, respectively, and were compared with naïve mice as control. Gingival tissues were evaluated by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and interleukin‐1β level by ELISA. The bone resorption was directly assessed on the region between the cement–enamel junction and the alveolar bone crest. Microscopically, histomorphometry of the furcation region, immunofluorescence for nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐ĸB), and immunohistochemistry for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and cathepsin K (CTSK) were performed. Systemically, body mass variation and leukogram were analyzed. Results: Periodontitis significantly increased MPO activity, interleukin‐1β level, and NF‐ĸB+ immunofluorescence, and induced severe alveolar bone and furcation resorptions, besides increased TRAP+ and CTSK+ cells compared with naïve. UMB significantly prevented the inflammation by reducing MPO activity, interleukin‐1β level, and NF‐ĸB+ intensity, besides reduction of resorption of alveolar bone and furcation area, and TRAP+ and CTSK+ cells compared with the NT group. Periodontitis or UMB treatment did not affect the animals systemically. Conclusion: UMB improved periodontitis by reducing inflammation and bone markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence shows that the total flavonoids of Rhizoma Drynariae (TFRD) can improve bone mineral density (BMD). However, there is no evidence to summarize the improvement of biochemical indicators of bone metabolism (BIBM). Methods: The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Chongqing VIP Information Database (VIP) and SinoMed were searched from inception to 6 May 2024. The final included studies performed meta-analyses using RevMan 5.3. Results: Nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were ultimately included. The TFRD group had higher bone gla protein (BGP) and type I procollagen-N-propeptide (PINP) compared to theOther therapies (WMD: 5.11; 95% CI: 3.37, 6.84; p < 0.00001; WMD: 13.89; 95% CI: 11.81, 15.97; p < 0.00001). The tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) decreased significantly (WMD: -1.34; 95% CI: -1.62, -1.06; p < 0.00001). The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased significantly (WMD: 7.47; 95% CI: 6.29, 8.66; p < 0.00001). There were no significant differences in serum calcium (SC) or serum phosphorus (SP) levels between the TFRD and control groups (WMD: 0.08; 95% CI: -0.04, 0.20; p = 0.17; WMD: 0.02; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.05; p = 0.36). Conclusion: TFRD can stimulate bone formation and prevent bone resorption in osteoporosis (OP) patients, but it has no effect on SC and SP. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of replacing dietary fish meal (FM) with defatted yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) meal (DYM) on growth performance, intestinal health, serum immune, and antioxidant indexes of juvenile Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). Four hundred juvenile Chinese mitten crabs (4.94 ± 0.08 g) were randomly distributed into five groups in quadruplicate (20 crabs per tank), and each group was fed with diets that replaced FM with DYM at 0% (CON, containing 200 g/kg FM), 25% (DYM25), 50% (DYM50), 75% (DYM75), and 100% (DYM100) for 8 weeks, respectively. The results showed that the growth, serum immune and antioxidant indexes, digestive enzyme activities, intestinal histology, and microbiota composition of DYM25, DYM50, and DYM75 groups all reached the similar level as the CON group. While when 100% fishmeal was replaced, significantly decreased the final body weight (FBW), weight gain (WG), serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP), acid phosphatase (ACP), lysozyme (LZM), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC), and total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD) activities, hepatopancreas protease activity, mid‐intestine folds height and number (P < 0.05), significantly increased the feed conversion ratio (FCR), serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and the abundance of intestinal harmful bacteria Shewanella (P < 0.05). Overall, these results suggest that 75% dietary FM (150 g/kg) can be effectively replaced by DYM without negative impact on the growth performance, intestinal health, serum immune, and antioxidant indexes of juvenile E. sinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reportedly, nausea or vomiting after heavy exercise was associated with post-exercise increased blood calcium (Ca) levels, which was correlated with enhanced bone resorption. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, enrolling 104 healthy trained male members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces. Risedronate (17.5 mg) or placebo was prescribed 3 and 10 days before heavy exercise lasting approximately 5 h. The primary outcome was the severity of nausea or vomiting assessed by a visual analog scale during or post-exercise. The secondary outcomes included clinical symptoms associated with heat illness, post-exercise serum total Ca (tCa), whole blood ionized Ca (iCa), and serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) levels. The mean age was 26 years. The exercise resulted in a 4.5% weight loss. The two groups were comparable in terms of the symptoms, including primary outcome. However, post-exercise tCa and TRACP-5b were significantly lower with risedronate. A similar result was observed for iCa. The post-exercise urinary Ca/Magnesium ratio and the incidence of hypercalcemia (defined as tCa or iCa levels ≥ each median value of all subjects) were significantly lower with risedronate (78.0% vs. 58.5%). A stronger treatment effect of risedronate on blood Ca levels was observed in participants who lost substantial body weight. Post-exercise hypercalcemia is attributed to enhanced bone resorption but not the cause of nausea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visible and near-infrared (Vis-NIR) reflectance spectroscopy has recently emerged as an efficient and cost-effective tool for monitoring soil parameters and provides an extensive array of measurements swiftly. This study sought to predict fundamental biological attributes of calcareous soils using spectral reflectance data in the Vis-NIR range through the application of partial least square regression (PLSR) and stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) techniques. The objective was to derive spectrotransfer functions (STFs) to predict selected soil biological attributes. A total of 97 composite samples were collected from three distinct agricultural land uses, i.e., sugarcane, wheat, and date palm, in the Khuzestan Province, Iran. The samples were analyzed using both standard laboratory analysis and proximal sensing approach within the Vis-NIR range (400–2500 nm). Biological status was evaluated by determining soil enzyme activities linked to nutrient cycling including acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dehydrogenase (DEH), soil microbial respiration (SMR), microbial biomass phosphorus (Pmic), and microbial biomass carbon (Cmic). The results indicated that the developed PLSR models exhibited superior predictive performance in most biological parameters compared to the STFs, although the differences were not significant. Specifically, the STFs acceptably accurately predicted ACP, ALP, DEH, SMR, Pmic, and Cmic with R2val (val = validation dataset) values of 0.68, 0.67, 0.65, 0.65, 0.76, and 0.72, respectively. These findings confirm the potential of Vis-NIR spectroscopy and the effectiveness of the associated STFs as a rapid and reliable technique for assessing biological soil quality. Overall, in the context of predicting soil properties using spectroscopy-based approaches, emphasis must be placed on developing straightforward, easily deployable, and pragmatic STFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney transplant (KT) requires long‐term glucocorticoid (GC) treatment against acute and/or chronic rejection. Glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is one of the major concerns in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Therefore, it is essential to accumulate GIOP data from paediatric KTRs to aid in their healthy growth. A serial observational study of bone strength was carried out in an 8‐year‐old girl with bilateral hypoplastic kidney who underwent ABO‐compatible living‐donor KT and GC treatment over 2 years. Bone strength was evaluated by bone mineral density (BMD) and serum bone turnover markers (BTMs), including serum alkaline phosphatase (S‐ALP), serum tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (S‐TRACP‐5b), and serum undercarboxylated osteocalcin (S‐ucOC). All the levels of BTMs and BMD from 1 M to 4 M remained lower than the levels at 0 months (0 M: baseline). After gradual reduction of GC dose (4 M–24 M), S‐ALP levels increased from baseline and S‐TRACP‐5b levels remained lower than the baseline level, but BMD recovered to baseline and increased. The S‐ucOC levels did not increase from baseline. The patient's height growth velocity SDS was +3.99 for 23 months, and no fracture occurred during this observation period. A consistent, predominantly formative state of bone, which maintained higher S‐ALP levels and lower S‐TRACP‐5b levels compared to baseline, could contribute to increased BMD. In addition, no increase in S‐ucOC levels from baseline could be associated with no deterioration of bone strength. This case suggests that measurement of BMD and, S‐ALP, TRACP‐5b and ucOC could be useful for evaluating the trend on bone strength in a paediatric KTR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present research was to evaluate the effect of diets supplemented with activated yeast, crude chitin, and chitosan on the growth, immune, and antioxidant response of freshwater prawn Cryphiops (Cryphiops) caementarius. Adult male prawns were kept in individual culture vessels installed in aquarium tanks. The basal diet (control) was supplemented with activated Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast (60 g/kg), crude chitin (20 g/kg), and chitosan (1 g/kg). Each dietary treatment consisted of three replicates. The diet supplemented with activated yeast causes greater growth, as well as a greater number of total hemocytes (82.54 × 105 cells/mL), semigranular (59 × 105 cells/mL), and granular (18.67 × 105 cells/mL) hemocytes and without atypical hemocytes. Furthermore, a higher number of hemocytes positive for prophenoloxidase (98%), a shorter hemolymph clotting time (42.87 s), a higher activity of acid phosphatase (12.50 U/mL) and glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST) (0.186 U/mL) were also observed in dietary yeast group. On the contrary, there were no differences in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme in prawns from any dietary treatment. Results from this research demonstrate for the first time that the diet containing activated yeast increases the growth and immune response of the freshwater prawn through a significant increase in hemocyte and acid phosphatase levels, a decrease in hemolymph clotting time, and a greater number of proPO‐positive hemocytes. However, activated yeast is not effective in increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD and GST. Therefore, the activated yeast diet can be useful to improve the aquaculture production of C. (C.) caementarius and possibly of other commercially important crustaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dahongpao mother tree (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze) is a representative of Wuyi rock tea. Whether there is a difference in rhizosphere soil microbial diversity and function between asexually propagated cuttings of Dahongpao (PD) and the parent Dahongpao mother tree (MD) has not been reported. In this study, high throughput sequencing technology was used to analyze rhizosphere soil microbial diversity, functions and their relationship with soil available nutrients and enzyme activities in MD and PD. The results showed that available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents and urease, protease, acid phosphatase and sucrase activities of rhizosphere soils in MD were significantly higher than those in PD. Both bacterial and fungal diversity were higher in rhizosphere soils in MD than in PD, and secondly, the bacterial community structure was less stable while the fungal community structure was more stable in PD compared to MD. There were significant differences between MD and PD tea tree rhizosphere soils in 6 genera of characteristic bacteria and 4 genera of characteristic fungi. The results of function and interaction effect analysis showed that the rhizosphere soil available nutrient content and enzyme activities in MD were significantly higher than those in PD, and their contributions mainly originated from Pirellula and Acidisphaera of characteristic bacteria and Alatospora of characteristic fungi. Secondly, MD maybe had a stronger ability to inhibit soil pathogens than PD, with the main contribution coming from Scopulariopsis and Tolypocladium of characteristic fungi. Overall, compared with PD, soil texture in MD was relatively better, and its soil nutrient cycling-related enzyme activities were stronger, which was more favorable to soil nutrient cycling and increased the available nutrient content of the soil, which in turn promoted the growth of tea trees. This study provides an important reference for the planting and management of tea tree cuttings and microbial regulation of tea tree growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of biomass ash in sustainable agriculture and increasing its fertilizing efficiency by biological agents, potentially sequestering CO2, have become important issues for the global economy. The aim of this paper was to investigate the effects of ash from sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) and Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) biomass, a biogas plant digestate, and a Spirodela polyrhiza extract, acting alone or synergistically, on soil fertility and the development, health and physiological properties of sorghum plants. The results show novel information concerning differences in the composition and impact of ash, depending on its origin, soil properties and sorghum plant development. Sorghum ash was more effective than that from Jerusalem artichoke. Ash used alone and preferably acting synergistically with the digestate and Spirodela polyrhiza extract greatly increased soil fertility and the growth, biomass yield and health of sorghum plants. These improvements were associated with an increased chlorophyll content in leaves, better gas exchange (photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance), greater enzyme activity (acid and alkaline phosphatase, RNase, and total dehydrogenase), and a higher biomass energy value. The developed treatments improved environmental conditions by replacing synthetic fertilizers, increasing the sequestration of CO2, solving the ash storage problem, reducing the need for pesticides, and enabling a closed circulation of nutrients between plant and soil, maintaining high soil fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stress tends to induce oxidative damage to enzymes and organelles that in turns hampers the phosphorylation process and decreases the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) productivity. Artificial assemblies can alleviate abiotic stress and simultaneously provide nutrients to diminish the oxidative damage. Here, we have integrated natural acid phosphatase (ACP) and ATP synthase with plasmonic Au clusters in a biomimetic microreactor. ACP immobilized on the Au clusters is harnessed to generate proton influx to drive ATP synthase and concurrently supply phosphate to improve phosphorus availability to combat phosphorus‐deficiency stress. In tandem with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and the photothermal functionality of Au clusters, such an assembled microreactor exhibits an improved abiotic stress tolerance and achieves plasmon‐accelerated ATP synthesis. This innovative approach offers an effective route to enhance the stress resistance of ATP synthase‐based energy‐generating systems, opening an exciting potential of these systems for biomimicking applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: During the desalting process of salted cod, important biochemical changes occur, which will reflect on the organoleptic properties of the final product (desalted cod). Subsequent high-pressure processing with low temperature (4 °C) desalting processes can improve the physicochemical and microbial quality of desalted cod. During the desalting of salted cod, significant textural, histological, and biochemical changes occur. Understanding these changes is crucial for enhancing the preservation and extending the shelf life of desalted cod. This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical quality parameters and enzymatic activities during the desalting process of cod (16 h at 4 and 20 °C) and to extend the shelf life of desalted cod through high-pressure processing (HPP) at 400 and 550 MPa for 5 min. During desalting, a correlation was noted between the pH and trimethylamine content in samples desalted at 20 °C, with both parameters increasing in the initial 4 h and stabilizing thereafter. The soluble protein in cod muscle decreased over desalting time, as it dissolved into the desalting water. Enzymatic activity showed a decline in cathepsins (B and D) and acid phosphatase throughout desalting, whereas lipase activity increased, particularly at 20 °C. HPP effectively extended the shelf life of desalted cod by controlling endogenous microbial growth, enabling an extension to 14–21 days compared to the 7 days observed in untreated control samples. This study highlights quality changes during desalting, with lesser effects at lower temperatures. Subsequent HPP improved the microbiological quality of desalted cod during refrigerated storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of tea polyphenols (TP) and medicinal plant mixtures (Astragalus membranaceus + Lonicera japonica, Rheum officinale Bail + Scutellaria baicalensis + Platycladus orientalis) combined with astaxanthin (AST), benzoic acid (BA), and yeast complex on the health status of Eriocheir sinensis. Method: A total of 630 crabs (male crabs: 41.51 ± 1.63 g; female crabs: 47.27 ± 0.79 g) were randomly distributed into seven groups with three replicates (male: female, 1:1). These crabs were fed as follows for 8 weeks: basal diet (M1), M2 (M1 + 100 mg/kg TP), M3 (M1 + 2.0 g/kg A. membranaceus + 20 g/kg L. japonica), M4 (M1 + 2.5 g/kg R. officinale Bail + 1.5 g/kg S. baicalensis + 1.0 g/kg P. orientalis), and M5, M6, M7 (M2, M3 and M4 with 600 mg/kg AST +1.0 g/kg BA + 20 mg/kg yeast complex added, respectively). Results and discussion: The results showed that the activities of acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and lysosome (LZM) in the hemolymph were significantly increased in M5, M6, and M7 (P < 0.05), and the highest phagocytosis index (PI) and LZM activity were observed in M7 of female crabs. Moreover, the antioxidant indicators superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) of hepatopancreas were also significantly improved in M5, M6, and M7 (P < 0.05), while the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents showed an opposite trend. Furthermore, a morphological examination also showed the improved histological structure of hepatopancreas in M7, especially as seen in the clear lumens, no vacuolation, and integrity of the basal membrane of the hepatopancreatic tubule. Taken together, these results suggested that 2.5 g/kg R. officinale Bail, 1.5 g/kg S. baicalensis, and 1.0 g/kg P. orientalis in combination with 600 mg/kg AST, 1.0 g/kg BA, and 20 mg/kg yeast complex could improve the non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity, and hepatopancreatic health of E. sinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) of the kidney is responsible for renal regulation and homeostasis, and patients with chronic kidney disease frequently receive RAS blockades. The purpose of this study was to determine the connection between the stimulation of arsenic in rats and changes in transcription levels of RAS hormones, biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzymes. Twenty-five Wistar rats were divided into five groups (control, low, middle, high dose and high dose + α-tocopherol groups) and given oral doses of 8.2, 12.3 and 16.4 mg/kg sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) and 50 mg/kg α-tocopherol for two months. RT-PCR analysis in nephrocytes revealed that mRNA expression of p53, p21, p27, caspases (3, 7 and 9), ACE, AGT, AT1R, CYP1A1 and Bax was found to be upregulated by ~1.9, ~1.6, ~1.5, ~2.3, ~3.3, ~3, ~2, ~1.9, ~2.4, ~1.7 and ~3.3-fold, whereas that of cyclin A, cyclin B1, cyclin E1, CDK 1, CDK 2, Bcl-2, CAT, SOD, GPx, GR and GST was downregulated consistently in renal tissues of arsenic-exposed groups by ~0.6, ~0.5, ~0.4, ~0.5, ~0.6, ~0.5, ~0.6, ~0.4, ~0.6, ~0.5 and ~0.6-fold respectively. The activities of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase and antioxidant enzymes were significantly reduced by 63%, 71%, 40%, 37% and 44% respectively, upon treatment with NaAsO2. Through this study, we can gain knowledge about the potential function of RAS enzymes and antioxidant enzymes against the detrimental effects of arsenic-induced oxidative stress due to altered transcription levels of RAS enzymes in Wistar rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) affect seedling growth, root configuration, and nutrient uptake in hydroponic rice, but there are few studies on all growth stages of rice. The purpose of this experiment was to determine the response characteristics of root morphology, plant physiology, and P and K uptake and utilization efficiency to different supplies of P and K. Two local conventional rice varieties (Shennong 265 and Liaojing 294) were used as experimental materials across four treatments, including HPHK (sufficient P and K supply), HPLK (sufficient P supply under low K levels), LPHK (sufficient K supply under low P levels) and LPLK (low P and K levels) in a hydroponic setting. The results showed that HPHK and HPLK significantly decreased the acid phosphatase activity of leaves and roots from full heading to filling stages when compared to LPHK and LPLK. Sufficient supply of P or K significantly increased the accumulation of P and K (aboveground, leaves, stem sheath, and whole plant) and root morphological parameters (root length, root surface area, total root volume, and tips) during major growth stages when compared to LP or LK levels. HPHK was significantly higher than other treatments in terms of dry weight and the root activity at the main growth stage, P and K uptake rates in nutrient solutions at various stages, related P and K efficiency at the maturity stage, yield, effective panicle number, and grain number per panicle. In addition, the effect of HPHK on the above indexes were significantly greater than those of single sufficient supply of P or K. In conclusion, HPHK can improve plant configuration, increase plant P and K absorption and root activity, and increase rice yield and related P and K utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungal molecules have the potential to be a cost-effective chemical source for developing eco-friendly disease-controlling pharmaceuticals that target mosquito-borne illnesses. The primary aims of the study were to identify the fungus Fusarium begoniae larvicidal ability against Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Anopheles stephensi. The ethyl acetate extract demonstrated lethal concentrations that kill 50% of exposed larvae (LC50) and 90% of exposed larvae (LC90) for the 1st to 4th instar larvae of An. stephensi (LC50 = 54.821, 66.525, 68.250, and 73.614; LC90 = 104.56, 138.205, 150.415, and 159.466 μg/mL), Cx. quinquefasciatus (LC50 = 64.981, 36.505, 42.230, and 36.514; LC90 = 180.46, 157.105, 140.318, and 153.366 μg/ mL), and Ae. aegypti (LC50 = 74.890, 33.607, 52.173, and 26.974; LC90 = 202.56, 162.205, 130.518, and 163.286 μg/mL). Mycelium metabolites were evaluated for their pupicidal activity towards Ae. aegypti (LC50 = 80.669, LC90 = 119.904), Cx. quinquefasciatus (LC50 = 70.569, LC90 = 109.840), and An. stephensi (LC50 = 73.269, LC90 = 110.590 μg/mL). The highest larvicidal activity was recorded at 300 µg/mL, with 100% mortality against first and second-instar larvae of Cx. quinquefasciatus. Metabolite exposure to larvae exhibited several abnormal behavioral changes. The exposure to F. begoniae metabolite, key esterases such as acetylcholinesterase, α-and-β-carboxylesterase, and acid and alkaline phosphatase activity significantly decreased compared to control larvae. The outcomes of the histology analysis revealed that the mycelium metabolites-treated targeted larvae had a disorganized abdominal mid and hindgut epithelial cells. The is first-hand information on study of ethyl-acetate-derived metabolites from F. begoniae tested against larvae and pupae of Ae. aegypti, Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. stephensi. Bio-indicator toxicity findings demonstrate that A. nauplii displayed no mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant phosphorus (P) acquisition strategy is considered to be an intrinsic driver behind plant succession. However, variations in plant P acquisition strategies in connection to soil P fraction changes after wetland drainage remain unclear. To address this issue, here we conducted a study in six distinct wetlands that experienced long‐term (>20 years) artificial drainage, with the adjacent waterlogged wetlands as a control. We analysed plant community composition, biomass and soil P fractions, and identified three plant P acquisition strategies based on soil acid phosphatase activity, plant P resorption efficiency, and soil arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) content. We found that soil calcium‐bound P (PCa) and enzyme‐extractable P (Penzyme) were key factors influencing plant P acquisition. Soil PCa correlated negatively with acid phosphatase activity but positively with AMF content. Soil Penzyme negatively impacted P resorption efficiency. The wetlands were categorised into three types based on the change in plant richness and composition, with each exhibiting distinct plant P acquisition strategies. These changes in strategies after drainage corresponded with shifts in soil P fractions. Overall, our study highlights the role of soil P fractions in explaining plant P acquisition strategies after wetland drainage, suggesting P regulations on plant succession and ecosystem services. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clanis bilineata is a nutritious and edible insect. In this study, the effects of dietary C. bilineata larva meal (CBLM) on laying performance, egg quality, and serum biochemical parameters of aged laying hens were investigated. A trial diet was formulated by replacing soybean meal with CBLM in the basic diet of laying hens, whereas the basic diet served as a control. Results showed that compared with the control, dietary CBLM increased day egg production, egg weight, egg mass, food intake, yolk colour, eggshell strength, yolk linolenic acid content, yolk total polyunsaturated fatty acid content, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase activity, catalase activity, acid phosphatase activity, alkaline phosphatase activity, glutamyl transpeptidase, activity, and high-density lipoprotein level. Conversely, dietary CBLM decreased the feed-conversion ratio, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and monounsaturated fatty acid in yolks, as well as serum malondialdehyde, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These findings indicated that dietary CBML can ameliorate the laying performance, egg quality, and health status of aged laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the mechanism of curcumin (CUR) suppressing osteoclastogenesis and evaluated its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) mouse. Bone marrow-derived macrophages were isolated as osteoclast precursors. In the presence or absence of CUR, cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8, osteoclastogenesis was detected by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, F-actin rings formation was detected by immunofluorescence, bone resorption was detected by bone slices, IκBα, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways were detected using western blot, osteoclastogenesis-related gens were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A knee OA mouse model was designed by destabilizing the medial meniscus (DMM). Thirty-six male mice were divided into sham+vehicle, OA+vehicle, and OA+CUR groups. Mice were administered with or without CUR at 25 mg/kg/d from the first post-operative day until sacrifice. After 4 and 8 weeks of OA induction, micro-computed tomography was performed to analyze microstructure changes in subchondral bone, hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to calculate the thickness of the calcified and hyaline cartilage layers, toluidine blue O staining was performed to assess the degenerated cartilage, TRAP-stained osteoclasts were counted, and NF-κB, phosphorylated Jun N-terminal Kinases (p-JNK), and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) were detected using immunohistochemistry. CUR suppressed osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption without cytotoxicity. CUR restrained RANKL-induced activation of NF-κB, p-JNK and up-regulation of osteoclastogenesis-related genes. CUR delayed cartilage degeneration by suppressing osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption in early OA. The mechanism of CUR inhibiting osteoclastogenesis might be associated with NF-κB/JNK signaling pathway, indicating a novel strategy for OA treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION The relationship between phosphorus (P) related enzymatic activity and organic P turnover remains unclear, particularly in the context of biochar application. Field experiments were conducted on Phaeozem and Luvisol soil types to investigate the effects of biochar application rates – 0 t ha−1 (CK), 22.5 t ha−1 (D1), 67.5 t ha−1 (D2), and 112.5 t ha−1 (D3) – on soil organic fractions using 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and relevant phosphatase activity.The application of biochar increased the soil organic carbon (SOC), pyrophosphate (pyro), and orthophosphate (ortho) content, as well as the acid phosphomonoesterase (AcP), alkaline phosphomonoesterase (AlP), inorganic pyrophosphatase (IPP), and phosphodiesterase (PD) activities. Biochar application also increased soil organic P (OPa), the sum of inorganic P forms (IP), ortho, monoesters, and myo‐IHP contents, the pH value, AlP and PD activities in Phaeozem, but it significantly reduced diesters, polyphosphate (poly) contents, and IPP and AcP activities compared to those in Luvisol. Acid phosphomonoesterase and PD activities also showed an opposite trend in Luvisol. The structural equation model showed that the potential mechanism of organic P turnover in response to biochar application differed depending on the soil types, potentially influenced by P availability.Overall, the findings of this study enhance the comprehension of the variation of P fractions and their availability in the context of biochar application for agricultural production in northeastern China. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study published in Acta Neuropathologica identified a novel missense mutation of the small muscle protein X-linked (SMPX) gene in a Chinese pedigree. The affected individuals in the pedigree exhibited symptoms of scapuloperoneal myopathy and myofibrillar myopathy, with both proximal and distal muscle weakness and mild sensorineural deafness. Muscle biopsies revealed characteristic pathological features, including atrophic round fibers, rimmed vacuoles, and eosinophilic substances. This study expands our understanding of SMPX-related myopathy and highlights the need for further research to establish a relationship between the mutation and deafness. [Extracted from the article]

Highlights: Biochar and phosphate fertilizers combined to alleviate soda saline-alkali barriers. Addition of biochar decreased the rice Na+ concentration and Na+/K+ ratio in a soda saline-alkali paddy. Biochar enhances the efficiency of phosphate fertilizer utilization under soda saline-alkali stress. Soda saline-alkali significantly hinders rice growth, phosphorus utilization efficiency, and yield formation. The application of biochar can alleviate the adverse effects of saline-alkali stress on crops. However, there is limited research on the interaction between biochar and phosphorus fertilizer concerning ionic accumulation, phosphorus utilization efficiency, and rice yield in soda saline-alkali soils. A two-year field experiment was conducted to study the combined effects of biochar and phosphate fertilizer on ionic accumulation, physiological status, phosphorus utilization efficiency, and rice yield in soda saline-alkali soil. Four treatments were established for the study: NK (225 kg N, 75 kg K ha−1 year−1), NPK (225 kg N, 70 kg P, 75 kg K ha−1 year−1), NK + B [225 kg N, 75 kg K ha−1 year−1, 1.5% biochar (w/w)], and NPK + B [225 kg N, 70 kg P, 75 kg K ha−1 year−1, 1.5% biochar (w/w)]. The findings indicated that the combined application of biochar and phosphorus fertilizer (NPK + B) significantly reduced the Na+ concentration, Na+/K+ ratio, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide anion (O2−), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels in rice plants. Furthermore, it resulted in a significant increase in K+ concentration and elevated the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), proline (Pro), soluble protein (SP), soluble sugar (SS), and acid phosphatase (ACP). The NPK + B treatment exhibited a significant difference compared to the other treatments (p < 0.05). Compared with NK, phosphorus accumulation and phosphorus utilization efficiency under NPK + B were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The average of biomass yield, grain yield, and harvest index of NPK + B, NK + B, and NPK significantly surpassed those of NK by 6.28–12.25%, 19.80–42.13%, and 11.59–24.64%, respectively. Moreover, a significant difference was observed between NPK + B and the other treatments (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis of the two-year mean data revealed a strong positive correlation of 89.5% for PC1 and a minor negative correlation of 4.4% for PC2. Our research findings demonstrate that the combination of biochar and phosphorus fertilizer effectively enhances salt and alkali tolerance in rice plants, resulting in increased yield through improved ionic balance and physiological status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichoderma is a soil-dwelling microorganism that has many benefits for plants and is therefore widely used in agriculture. Among the secondary metabolites produced by Trichoderma, gliotoxin (GT) is one of the most studied. The antagonistic effect of GT on other fungi was first discovered by R. Weindling in 1934. He referred to it as the "lethal principle" of Trichoderma. Despite the long history of studying GT, its impact on the soil microbial community has remained largely unexplored. In our work, we investigated the response of the soil microbial community to different doses of GT (10–500 µM per kg) and different durations (7–56 days) of exposure. We measured microbiological parameters (CO2 emission, microbial biomass (MB)), calculated the eco-physiological indices and determined the activity of soil enzymes involved in the C, N, P and S cycles. We identified three types of microbial responses to GT: inhibition, stress and stimulation. The inhibitory effect developed only by day 56 and in the samples treated with 500 μM GT. The stress effect (increased CO2 emission and decreased MB) of GT on microbial communities was predominant. Soil extracellular enzymes also responded to GT to varying degrees. A stimulating effect of GT on enzyme activity was noted for β-D-1,4-cellobiosidase and β-1,4-glucosidase. The activity of arylsulfatase and leucine aminopeptidase decreased under the influence of GT up to day 28, but by the end of the experiment, there was a restoration of activity. We did not observe any significant changes in the activity of β-1,4-xylosidase, β-1,4-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase or acid phosphatase. The results obtained showed that GT at high, "man-made" doses can inhibit the microbiological activity of soil, but at naturally occurring concentrations, it can have a stimulating effect on soil microbiome functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil properties, including soil compaction and the nutrient content, influence the composition and functions of rhizosphere microbial communities. There is limited information on how soil compaction and phosphorus application affect phosphate-solubilizing (PSB) and nitrogen-fixing bacteria (NFB). This study aimed to examine the responses of PSB and NFB in the rhizosphere of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) plants under varying soil compaction and phosphorus application levels. To address this, pot experiments were conducted to assess the composition and assembly processes of rhizosphere PSB and NFB in peanut cultivar Hua Yu 22 under two soil compaction levels (T1, 1.25 g/cm3 compaction, and T2, 1.00 g/cm3 compaction) and two phosphorus (P) levels (P0, no P applied, and P1, 1.2 mM P/kg soil applied). The results showed that PSB community shifts were closely correlated with the content of soil available phosphorus, soil acid phosphatase activity, soil nitrogenase activity, and soil compaction. Additionally, the content of soil available phosphorus and soil compaction were correlated with changes in operational taxonomic units of NFB. A network analysis revealed that the complexities of PSB were significantly higher than those of NFB. A stronger negative relationship was identified among NFB communities. The assembly of PSB communities was primarily driven by drift processes, whereas NFB communities were influenced by a combination of homogenizing selection and drift. Both PSB and NFB community compositions were significantly affected by phosphorus limitations and soil compaction. These findings enhance our understanding of the impacts of soil compaction and phosphorus application on PSB and NFB communities, with implications for optimizing peanut crop production. Our results will provide reference for crop cultivation in compacted and low-phosphorus soils. The important phosphate-solubilizing and nitrogen-fixing bacteria screened in the interaction network in this study will become candidate microbial agents for alleviating soil compaction and low phosphorus levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study simulated the effects of direct predatory pressure, indirect predatory pressure, and conspecific injury signals on sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) to determine changes in the activity of immune defense enzymes (lysozyme, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase) and antioxidant stress enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde). Samples of sea cucumber juveniles were collected at 3 h, 12 h, 72 h, and 96 h post predatory stress, and six enzymes related to immune defense and antioxidant stress were selected for activity assays, namely, lysozyme (LZM), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The results indicate that under direct predatory pressure, the activity of catalase in sea cucumbers was significantly higher than that of the control group at 3 h (P < 0.05), while the activities of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and catalase were significantly lower at 72 h (P < 0.05). Under indirect predatory pressure, the activity of malondialdehyde in sea cucumbers was significantly higher than that of the control group at 12 h (P < 0.05), the activity of alkaline phosphatase was significantly higher at 72 and 96 h (P < 0.05), the activity of catalase was significantly lower at 72 h, and the activity of superoxide dismutase was significantly higher at 72 h (P < 0.05). Under the influence of conspecific injury signals, the activity of malondialdehyde in sea cucumbers was significantly higher than that of the control group at 12 h (P < 0.05), and the activity of superoxide dismutase was significantly higher at 96 h (P < 0.05). The sea cucumber enhanced its antioxidant capacity 3 h after facing a predator, while its immune defense mechanism was suppressed at 72 h. When facing indirect predatory pressure, the sea cucumber may have made immune and antioxidant preparations for the arrival of unknown risks. The experimental results show that predatory pressure has a significant impact on the immune and antioxidant functions of sea cucumbers, which may be related to the physiological state and environmental adaptability of the sea cucumber. This study provides a new perspective for understanding how sea cucumbers cope with predatory pressure in the natural environment and offers theoretical support for the cultivation management of sea cucumbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our previous study, we demonstrated that the microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum can bioaccumulate bisphenol A analogues. Since this microalgae species is part of the diet of marine filter-feeding organisms, such as bivalves, in this study we tested the hypothesis that a diet based on exposed microalgae can exert negative effects on the clam Ruditapes philippinarum. Microalgae were exposed for 7 days to 300 ng/L of bisphenol AF (BPAF), bisphenol F (BPF), and bisphenol S (BPS), alone or as a mixture (MIX), to allow bioaccumulation. Microalgae were then supplied as food to bivalves. After 7 and 14 days of diet, the effects of exposed microalgae were evaluated on a battery of biomarkers measured in haemolymph/haemocytes, gills and digestive glands of clams. In addition, bioaccumulation of the three bisphenols was investigated in clams by UHPLC-HRMS. The results obtained demonstrated that total haemocyte count (THC) increased in clams following ingestion for 7 days of BPAF- and BPF-exposed microalgae, while BPS-exposed microalgae significantly reduced THC after 14 days of diet. MIX- and BPS-exposed microalgae increased haemocyte proliferation. The diet of exposed microalgae affected acid and alkaline phosphatase activity in clams, with an opposite response between haemolymph and haemocytes. Regarding antioxidants, an increase in catalase activity was observed in clams after ingestion of BPA analogue-exposed microalgae. The results also demonstrated marked oxidative stress in gills, the first tissue playing an important role in the feeding process. Oxidative damage was recorded in both the gills and digestive glands of clams fed BPA analogue-exposed microalgae. Alterations in epigenetic-involved enzyme activity were also found, demonstrating for the first time that BPA analogue-exposed food can alter epigenetic mechanisms in marine invertebrates. No bioaccumulation of BPA analogues was detected in clam soft tissues. Overall, this study demonstrated that a diet of BPA analogue-exposed microalgae can induce significant alterations of some important biological responses of R. philippinarum. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the effects of ingestion of BPA analogue-exposed microalgae in the clam R. philippinarum, suggesting a potential ecotoxicological risk for the marine food chain, at least at the first levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the physiological and immunological effects of 0.5 ppm carbaryl exposure on juvenile Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) over 12 h to 72 h. Notable results include decreased activities of liver enzymes catalase (CAT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), while superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels remained stable, with the lowest activities of CAT and GSH-PX observed at 72 h. Serum biochemistry revealed increased alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) at 24 h, with declining aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and a peak in creatinine at 48 h. Histopathological analysis showed carbaryl-induced necrosis in liver and spleen cells, and increased melanomacrophage centers in both organs. Additionally, immune gene expression analysis indicated an upregulation of heat shock proteins and consistent elevation of complement component C3 and interleukin-8 (IL-8). These findings suggest that carbaryl exposure significantly impairs organ function and modulates immune responses in L. calcarifer, underlining the need for further research on protective strategies against pesticide impacts in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bicuspid valve in sheep and goat showed similar anatomical features. The left atrio ventricular opening was circular and possessed valves. Both these species contained an anterior and a posterior leaflet. The anterior leaflet was large and semicircular with two zones while the posterior leaflet had three zones. The latter was divided into 2-3 scallops by clefts. The free edges of the cusps were attached to the papillary muscles by 6-9 chordae tendinae. Morphometric observations of these leaflets didn't show any significant variations in both species. The free-edge mean length, mean depth of these valves and the mean height of the aterio-posterior commissure and the posterior-anterior commissure were with insignificant differences. Histological features also revealed a similarity in both species. The leaflets were found attached to the annulus made of densely arranged collagen bundles. Lamina radialis formed the core of the leaflet and was composed of dense collagen fibers, few elastic and reticular fibers with fibrocytes and histiocytes. The atrial and ventricular surfaces were lined by a layer of endothelium. Beneath the endothelial lining was lamina spongiosa towards the atrial side and lamina fibrosa towards the ventricular side. The mean thickness of both these valves was with insignificant differences between these two species. These valves showed a mild to weak reaction to PAS in the lamina spongiosa, whereas a moderate activity for Alcian blue was observed in the endothelial linings that confirmed the presence of neutral and acid mucopolysaccharides. The reaction to acid and alkaline phosphatase activity was strong in fibrosa, moderate in spongiosa and weak in lamina radialis. The valves were negative for Oil red O and cholesterol activity. Moderately positive succinic dehydrogenase activity was observed at the endothelial surfaces of the leaflet in both species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineering enzyme–substrate binding pockets is the most efficient approach for modifying catalytic activity, but is limited if the substrate binding sites are indistinct. Here, we developed a 3D convolutional neural network for predicting protein–ligand binding sites. The network was integrated by DenseNet, UNet, and self-attention for extracting features and recovering sample size. We attempted to enlarge the dataset by data augmentation, and the model achieved success rates of 48.4%, 35.5%, and 43.6% at a precision of ≥50% and 52%, 47.6%, and 58.1%. The distance of predicted and real center is ≤4 Å, which is based on SC6K, COACH420, and BU48 validation datasets. The substrate binding sites of Klebsiella variicola acid phosphatase (KvAP) and Bacillus anthracis proline 4-hydroxylase (BaP4H) were predicted using DUnet, showing high competitive performance of 53.8% and 56% of the predicted binding sites that critically affected the catalysis of KvAP and BaP4H. Virtual saturation mutagenesis was applied based on the predicted binding sites of KvAP, and the top-ranked 10 single mutations contributed to stronger enzyme–substrate binding varied while the predicted sites were different. The advantage of DUnet for predicting key residues responsible for enzyme activity further promoted the success rate of virtual mutagenesis. This study highlighted the significance of correctly predicting key binding sites for enzyme engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium is a vital trace mineral that is crucial for maintaining regular biological processes in aquatic animals. In this study, a four-week dietary trial was carried out to assess the impact of bio-fermented selenium (Bio−Se) on the growth and immune response of Chinese mitten crabs, Eriocheir sinensis. The crabs were randomly allocated to five dietary treatment groups, each receiving a different dose of Bio−Se. The doses included 0, 0.3, 0.6, 1.5, and 3.0 mg/kg and were accurately measured in basal diet formulations. The results showed the weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate (SR) in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio−Se group were the highest, and 3.0 mg/kg of Bio−Se has an inhibitory effect on the WGR, SGR, and SR. The activities of the immune enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and acid phosphatase (ACP), of the hepatopancreas were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio−Se group, while they decreased (p < 0.05) in the 3.0 mg/kg feeding group compared to the 0 mg/kg feeding group. The concentration of maleic dialdehyde (MDA) exhibited the opposite pattern. Similarly, the mRNA expression levels of antimicrobial peptides (ALF-1, Crus-1, and LYS), ERK, and Relish genes were also observed to be the highest in the 1.5 mg/kg Bio−Se group compared with the other groups. Furthermore, the administration of 1.5 mg/kg of Bio−Se resulted in an increase in the thickness of the intestinal plica and mucosal layer, as well as in alterations in the intestinal microbial profile and bacterial diversity compared to the dose of 0 mg/kg of Bio−Se. Notably, the population of the beneficial bacterial phylum Fusobacteria was increased after crabs were fed the 1.5 mg/kg Bio−Se diet. In conclusion, the oral administration of 1.5 mg/kg of Bio−Se improved the growth efficiency, antioxidant capabilities, immunity, and intestinal health of E. sinensis. Through a broken-line analysis of the WGR against dietary Bio−Se levels, optimal dietary Bio−Se levels were determined to be 1.1 mg/kg. These findings contribute valuable insights to the understanding of crab cultivation and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To elucidate whether mitochondrial biogenesis disorder and damage from oxidative stress promote refractory apical periodontitis (RAP) in rat and human. Methodology: Twenty Enterococcus faecalis‐induced RAPs were established in the maxillary first molars of male Wistar rats. Concurrently, 12 periapical lesion specimens from patients presenting with RAP were obtained by apicoectomy. Radiographic examination and histologic analysis were conducted to evaluate periapical bone tissue destruction and morphological changes. The expression of key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, PGC‐1α and Nrf2, were detected by immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence staining, Western blot and real‐time PCR were also assayed. Mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) was identified by MitoSOX staining. Mitochondrial function was detected by the quantification of ATP production, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes. Furthermore, mitochondrial oxidative stress was evaluated by the determination of 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT), 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (4‐HNE) and 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) expression levels, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) expression and antioxidant capacity. Student's t‐test was performed to determine significance between the groups; p <.05 was considered significant. Results: In the maxilla, significantly more bone resorption, greater number of periapical apoptotic cells and Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive multinucleated cells were observed in the RAP group compared with the control group (p <.01). PGC‐1α and Nrf2 were significantly reduced in rat and human RAP lesions compared to the control group (p <.01) at both the mRNA and protein levels. Double immunofluorescence analysis of PGC‐1α or Nrf2 with TOMM20 also indicated that mitochondrial biogenesis was impaired in RAP group (p <.01). Additionally, mitochondrial dysfunction was observed in RAP group, as reflected by increased mtROS, decreased ATP production, reduced mtDNA copy number and complexes of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Finally, the expression levels of mitochondrial oxidative stress markers, 3‐NT, 4‐HNE and 8‐OHdG, were significantly increased in the RAP group (p <.01). Consistent with this, systemic oxidative damage was also present in the progression of RAP, including increased MDA expression and decreased antioxidant activity (p <.01). Conclusions: Mitochondrial biogenesis disorder and damage from oxidative stress contribute to the development of RAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascular calcification affects the prognosis of patients with renal failure. Bisphosphonates are regarded as candidate anti-calcifying drugs because of their inhibitory effects on both calcium-phosphate aggregation and bone resorption. However, calcification in well-known rodent models is dependent upon bone resorption accompanied by excessive bone turnover, making it difficult to estimate accurately the anti-calcifying potential of drugs. Therefore, models with low bone resorption are required to extrapolate anti-calcifying effects to humans. Three bisphosphonates (etidronate, alendronate, and FYB-931) were characterised for their inhibitory effects on bone resorption in vivo and calcium-phosphate aggregation estimated by calciprotein particle formation in vitro. Then, their effects were examined using two models inducing ectopic calcification: the site where lead acetate was subcutaneously injected into mice and the transplanted, aorta obtained from a donor rat. The inhibitory effects of bisphosphonates on bone resorption and calcium-phosphate aggregation were alendronate > FYB-931 > etidronate and FYB-931 > alendronate = etidronate, respectively. In the lead acetate-induced model, calcification was most potently suppressed by FYB-931, followed by alendronate and etidronate. In the aorta-transplanted model, only FYB-931 suppressed calcification at a high dose. In both the models, no correlation was observed between calcification and bone resorption marker, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP). Results from the lead acetate-induced model showed that inhibitory potency against calcium-phosphate aggregation contributed to calcification inhibition. The two calcification models, especially the lead acetate-induced model, may be ideal for the extrapolation of calcifying response to humans because of calcium-phosphate aggregation rather than bone resorption as its mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]