Tissue Accumulation Research Articles

Mitigation of Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Augmentation of Anticancer Potency via Tea Polyphenol Nanoparticles' Codelivery of siRNA from CRISPR/Cas9 Screened Targets.

Cisplatin, a frontline chemotherapeutic agent against cancer, faces challenges in clinical application due to significant toxicities and suboptimal efficacy. Renal toxicity, a dose-limiting factor of cisplatin, results from multifactorial processes including cisplatin-induced cellular pyroptosis, oxidative damage, and inflammatory responses. Our findings reveal that Tea Polyphenols Nanoparticles (TPNs) derived from Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) effectively could address these diverse mechanisms, comprehensively alleviating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Leveraging TPNs as carriers, chemical conjugation enables the encapsulation of tetravalent cisplatin prodrug, extending its systemic half-life, enhancing tumor tissue accumulation, while simultaneously mitigating renal toxicity. Concurrently, employing a CRISPR/Cas9 kinase library, we identified CSNK2A1 as a target sensitizing tumor cells to cisplatin, enabling specific siRNA sequences to augment cisplatin susceptibility, thereby minimizing the dosage requirement. Benefiting from the versatile carrier properties of TPNs to codeliver cisplatin prodrug and anti-CSNK2A1 siRNA, we developed a codelivery system, Pt-TPNs/siRNA. Pt-TPNs/siRNA not only enhances the anticancer effects but also mitigates cisplatin-induced renal toxicity, achieving efficacy while reducing toxicity. Mechanistic and safety assessments of these nanoparticles were conducted at both cellular and animal levels, opening new avenues for improved clinical utilization of cisplatin.

Whole milk protein powder separated by low-temperature nanofiltration membrane administration alleviates sepsis-induced myopathy

Sepsis-induced myopathy (SIM) has been recognized as a critical risk factor for the development of acquired muscle weakness among patients in the intensive care unit. These individuals frequently encounter inadequate dietary intake and malnutrition. With the aggravation of the severity of the person’s condition, leading to increased skeletal muscle protein breakdown and reduced synthesis, which is an urgent problem to be solved in clinical nutritional treatment. Whole milk protein powder (WMPP) has promising bioactive nutrients and holds promising potential for enhancing skeletal muscle mass. The study was designed to delve into the potential effects and mechanisms of WMPP intervention for increaseing skeletal muscle mass on SIM mice. Our results clearly show that the intervention with WMPP can significantly improve the exercise capacity and skeletal muscle mass in SIM mice. It significantly increases the diameter and cross-sectional area (CSA) of skeletal muscle fibers, while effectively reducing the excessive aggregation of collagen fibers and the abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue in the skeletal muscle of SIM mice. Moreover, WMPP intervention also significantly alleviated the oxidative stress status of mitochondria, which subsequently enhanced the expression of mitochondrial metabolic enzymes. The mechanism may be associated with decreased AMPK phosphorylation in skeletal muscle tissue and simultaneously increased phosphorylation of mTOR, p70S6K1, and 4EBP-1 in SIM mice. In summary, the WMPP intervention significantly enhances exercise capacity and skeletal muscle mass while mitigating the oxidative stress status of mitochondria. Furthermore, it regulates skeletal muscle anabolism via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway in SIM mice.

Development and optimization of hydrogel-forming microneedles fabricated with 3d-printed molds for enhanced dermal diclofenac sodium delivery: a comprehensive in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo study.

With the developing manufacturing technologies, the use of 3D printers in microneedle production is becoming widespread. Hydrogel-forming microneedles (HFMs), a variant of microneedles, demonstrate distinctive features such as a high loading capacity and controlled drug release. In this study, the conical microneedle master molds with approximately 500μm needle height and 250μm base diameter were created using a Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer and were utilized to fabricate composite HFMs containing diclofenac sodium. Using Box-Behnken Design, the effects of different polymers on swelling index and mechanical strength of the developed HFMs were evaluated. The optimum HFMs were selected according to experimental design results with the aim of the highest mechanical strength with varying swelling indexes, which was needed to use 20% Gantrez S97 and 0.1% (F22), 0.42% (F23), and 1% (F24) hyaluronic acid. The skin penetration and drug release properties of the optimum formulations were assessed. Ex vivo studies were conducted on formulations to determine drug penetration and accumulation. F24, which has the highest mechanical strength and optimized swelling index, achieved the highest drug accumulation in the skin tissue (17.70 ± 3.66%). All optimum HFMs were found to be non-cytotoxic by the MTT cell viability test (> 70% cell viability). In in vivo studies, the efficacy of the F24 was assessed for the treatment of xylene-induced ear edema by contrasting it to the conventional dosage form. It was revealed that HFMs might be an improved replacement for conventional dosage forms in terms of dermal diseases such as actinic keratosis.

Functional study of amine oxidase copper-containing 1 (AOC1) in lipid metabolism

Amine oxidase copper-containing 1 (AOC1) is a key member of copper amine oxidase family, which is responsible for deamination oxidation of histamine and putrescine. In recent years, AOC1 has been reported to be associated with various cancers, with its expression levels significantly elevated in certain cancer cells, suggesting its potential role in cancer progression. However, its function in lipid metabolism still remains unclear. Through genetic analysis, we have discovered a potential relationship between AOC1 and lipid metabolism. To further investigate, we generated Aoc1 -/- mice and characterized their metabolic phenotypes on both chow diet and high-fat diet (HFD) feeding conditions. On HFD feeding conditions, Aoc1 -/- mice exhibited significantly higher fat mass and impaired glucose sensitivity, and lipid accumulation in white adipose tissue and liver was also increased. This study uncovers the potential role of AOC1 in lipid metabolism and its implications in metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, providing new targets and research directions for treating metabolic diseases.

Development of Radiolabeled Probes with Improved Imaging Contrast by Releasing Urinary Excretable Radiolabeled Compounds from Thermosensitive Liposomes in the Blood.

In this study, thermosensitive liposomes (TSLs) encapsulating urinary excretable radiolabeled compounds were developed. We considered that the release of the radiolabeled compounds from the TSLs in the blood by heating the blood in peripheral tissues can achieve rapid clearance of radioactivity, resulting in improved imaging contrast. To demonstrate the hypothesis, classical TSLs mainly composed of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine with a phase transition temperature of 41 °C were used. The optimal composition of TSLs was determined by an in vitro release test using [111In]In-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)-encapsulated liposomes, which showed that the cholesterol content drastically changed the release characteristics of classical TSLs. In the biodistribution experiments, [111In]In-DTPA was significantly released from the TSLs in the blood when the tails of mice were heated at 43 °C. The tumor-to-blood ratio of the heated group was three times higher than that of the nonheated group, and accumulation in normal tissues of the heated group was lower than that of the nonheated group. These results demonstrate the usefulness of the method using TSLs to encapsulate urinary excretable radiolabeled compounds for improving imaging contrast.

Syndromic obesity in children (using the example of clinical cases)

Obesity is a heterogeneous group of hereditary and acquired diseases associated with excessive accumulation of adipose tissue in the body. One example of syndromic obesity in children is Bardet-Biedl syndrome. This is a rare autosomal recessive disease from the group of ciliopathies, characterized by retinal dystrophy, obesity, polydactyly, mental retardation, hypogonadism, and renal dysfunction. The article presents two clinical cases of Bardet-Biedl syndrome. Diagnostic criteria for the disease are given, and the need for molecular genetic research methods in the early stages of the diagnostic search is shown. Promising directions in the treatment of the syndrome are considered.

Early structural valve deterioration following transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a patient with Scheie syndrome: a case report

BackgroundScheie syndrome, an attenuated subtype of mucopolysaccharidosis type I, is a rare storage disease that causes progressive glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) accumulation. Cardiovascular disorders determine the prognosis, and cardiac valve abnormalities are the most common cause. The patients are usually young so mechanical valve replacement is often performed, but because of the features of this disease, the surgical treatment is very risky. Recently, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been reported as an alternative choice for aortic stenosis, but optimal choice is still unclear. Here, we introduce a patient that underwent TAVI and refer to the histological finding of a biological valve extracted in relation to GAGs accumulation.Case presentationA 54-year-old woman with Scheie syndrome underwent valve surgeries three times throughout her whole life. At age 41, she received a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve for mitral stenosis. She promptly developed severe diastolic dysfunction and low output syndrome after the release of aortic clamping, thus requiring temporary mechanical circulatory support4. At age 51, she suffered from heart failure due to severe aortic stenosis and underwent TAVI because conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR) was deemed too risky. Three years later, her heart failure relapsed, and an echocardiogram unexpectedly revealed thickened bioprosthetic valve leaflets and a significant pressure gradient across the valve, consistent with early structural valve deterioration. AVR was performed via median sternotomy with a mechanical valve. As with the first operation, she presented refractory heart failure requiring mechanical circulatory support and was meticulously managed. However, she steadily showed worsening of multiple organ systems and died 9 days after the operation. Pathological autopsy and histological examination revealed accumulation of tissue with GAGs on the leaflets of the bioprosthetic valve of TAVI, which may have been the cause of early structural valve deterioration.ConclusionFor patients with Scheie syndrome, a biological valve can be compromised by the accumulation of GAGs, thereby causing early SVD. These findings may support valve selection for these high-risk patients.

Mechanisms of heavy metal-induced rhizosphere changes and crop metabolic evolution: The role of carbon materials

To investigate the effects of modified carbon-based materials on soil environmental remediation and crop physiological regulation, this research relied on rice pots with lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) composite contamination. Dolomite, montmorillonite, attapulgite and sepiolite modified biochar with different doses have been developed to explore the mechanisms on heavy metal passivation, nutrient improvement, microbial activation, and crop growth. The results indicated that the modified materials effectively reduced heavy metal bioavailability and accumulation in plant tissues through adsorption complexation. Specifically, under montmorillonite and sepiolite modified treatments, the Grains-Pb content significantly decreased by 29.23–30.31% and 27.49–30.58%, compared to the control group (CK). Meantime, carbon-based materials increased available nutrient levels, providing a biological substrate for soil microorganisms metabolism. The content of ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) and available phosphorus (AP) in different proportions of montmorillonite modified biochar increased by 10.99–13.98% and 55.76–77.86%, respectively, compared to CK. Furthermore, sepiolite modified biochar enhanced bacterial community diversity, significantly improving the tolerance and resistance of bacterial communities such as Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria to heavy metals. Meanwhile, carbon-based materials enhanced community stability and network complexity, improving microbial stress resistance to adverse environments. In summary, montmorillonite and sepiolite modified biochar regulated microbial community interaction mechanisms by mitigating the physiological toxicity of heavy metals. This process enhanced soil available nutrients and ecological function stability, which had significant implications for improving crop growth and quality.

The Effect of Synbiotics and Probiotics on Ochratoxin Concentrations in Blood and Tissues, Health Status, and Gastrointestinal Function in Turkeys Fed Diets Contaminated with Ochratoxin A.

The aim of this study was to evaluate carcass quality and analyze gastrointestinal functional status, ochratoxin A (OTA) accumulation in tissues and organs, and the health status of turkeys fed diets contaminated with OTA and supplemented with synbiotic preparations in comparison with commercial probiotic feed additives. The research involved 120 female BIG 6 turkeys, divided into six treatment groups (five replicates, four birds per replicate). Wheat naturally contaminated with OTA (662.03 μg/kg) was used in turkey diets. Turkeys in group 1 received an OTA-contaminated diet without additives. Groups 2 and 3 received 0.4 g/kg of probiotic preparation BioPlus 2B or Cylactin. Groups 4, 5, and 6 received 0.5 g/kg of synbiotics S1, S2, or S3. The following parameters were monitored: growth performance, carcass quality, gastrointestinal tract structure and digesta pH, health status, and concentrations of OTA in the blood and tissues of turkeys. The study found no significant differences in the growth performance and carcass quality of turkey. However, the introduction of probiotics or synbiotics into OTA-contaminated feed mixtures resulted in a reduced pH of the digesta in certain sections of the turkey digestive tract (p < 0.05). Additionally, the tested synbiotic additives significantly reduced liver weight in turkeys at weeks 6 and 15 (p < 0.05). The addition of probiotic and synbiotic preparations based on lactic acid bacteria strains, inulin, and S. cerevisiae yeasts to OTA-contaminated diets in commercial turkey farming may improve health status (p < 0.05) and reduce mycotoxin accumulation in organs and tissues of poultry (p < 0.05).

Aging by autodigestion.

The mechanism that triggers the progressive dysregulation of cell functions, inflammation, and breakdown of tissues during aging is currently unknown. We propose here a previously unknown mechanism due to tissue autodigestion by the digestive enzymes. After synthesis in the pancreas, these powerful enzymes are activated and transported inside the lumen of the small intestine to which they are compartmentalized by the mucin/epithelial barrier. We hypothesize that this barrier leaks active digestive enzymes (e.g. during meals) and leads to their accumulation in tissues outside the gastrointestinal tract. Using immune-histochemistry we provide evidence in young (4 months) and old (24 months) rats for significant accumulation of pancreatic trypsin, elastase, lipase, and amylase in peripheral organs, including liver, lung, heart, kidney, brain, and skin. The mucin layer density on the small intestine barrier is attenuated in the old and trypsin leaks across the tip region of intestinal villi with depleted mucin. The accumulation of digestive enzymes is accompanied in the same tissues of the old by damage to collagen, as detected with collagen fragment hybridizing peptides. We provide evidence that the hyperglycemia in the old is accompanied by proteolytic cleavage of the extracellular domain of the insulin receptor. Blockade of pancreatic trypsin in the old by a two-week oral treatment with a serine protease inhibitor (tranexamic acid) serves to significantly reduce trypsin accumulation in organs outside the intestine, collagen damage, as well as hyperglycemia and insulin receptor cleavage. These results support the hypothesis that the breakdown of tissues in aging is due to autodigestion and a side-effect of the fundamental requirement for digestion.

Metabolic syndrome.

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multiplex modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus and other health outcomes, and is a major challenge to clinical practice and public health. The rising global prevalence of MetS, driven by urbanization, sedentary lifestyles and dietary changes, underlines the urgency of addressing this syndrome. We explore the complex underlying mechanisms, including genetic predisposition, insulin resistance, accumulation of dysfunctional adipose tissue and ectopic lipids in abdominal obesity, systemic inflammation and dyslipidaemia, and how they contribute to the clinical manifestations of MetS. Diagnostic approaches vary but commonly focus on abdominal obesity (assessed using waist circumference), hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia and hypertension, highlighting the need for population-specific and phenotype-specific diagnostic strategies. Management of MetS prioritizes lifestyle modifications, such as healthy dietary patterns, physical activity and management of excess visceral and ectopic adiposity, as foundational interventions. We also discuss emerging therapies, including new pharmacological treatments and surgical options, providing a forward-looking perspective on MetS research and care. This Primer aims to inform clinicians, researchers and policymakers about MetS complexities, advocating for a cohesive, patient-centred management and prevention strategy. Emphasizing the multifactorial nature of MetS, this Primer calls for integrated public health efforts, personalized care and innovative research to address this escalating health issue.

Examining Carotenoid Metabolism Regulation and Its Role in Flower Color Variation in Brassica rapa L.

Carotenoids are vital organic pigments that determine the color of flowers, roots, and fruits in plants, imparting them yellow, orange, and red hues. This study comprehensively analyzes carotenoid accumulation in different tissues of the Brassica rapa mutant "YB1", which exhibits altered flower and root colors. Integrating physiological and biochemical assessments, transcriptome profiling, and quantitative metabolomics, we examined carotenoid accumulation in the flowers, roots, stems, and seeds of YB1 throughout its growth and development. The results indicated that carotenoids continued to accumulate in the roots and stems of YBI, especially in its cortex, throughout plant growth and development; however, the carotenoid levels in the petals decreased with progression of the flowering stage. In total, 54 carotenoid compounds were identified across tissues, with 30 being unique metabolites. Their levels correlated with the expression pattern of 22 differentially expressed genes related to carotenoid biosynthesis and degradation. Tissue-specific genes, including CCD8 and NCED in flowers and ZEP in the roots and stems, were identified as key regulators of color variations in different plant parts. Additionally, we identified genes in the seeds that regulated the conversion of carotenoids to abscisic acid. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the regulation of carotenoid metabolism in B. rapa, which can guide the selection and breeding of carotenoid-rich varieties.

The Effects of Warm Acupuncture on the Expression of AMPK in High-Fat Diet-Induced MAFLD Rats.

This study investigated the effects of acupuncture and warm acupuncture on the expression and mechanism of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling pathway associated with lipid accumulation in the liver tissue of rats with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) induced by a high-fat diet. Sprague-Dawley rats were categorised into four groups: control (CON), untreated MAFLD (MAFLD), and two MAFLD groups treated with acupuncture (ACU) and warm acupuncture (WA). The treatment groups underwent 16 application sessions over 8 weeks at the SP9 and BL18 acupoints. We measured the expression levels of AMPK, sterol regulatory element-binding protein1 (SREBP1), acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα (PPARα), carnitine palmitoyltransferase1 (CPT1), and CPT2. AMPK was activated in both ACU and WA groups. WA downregulated both SREBP1 and ACC expression at the protein level, whereas the acupuncture treatment downregulated SREBP1 expression. Additionally, WA selectively induced the activation of signalling pathways related to AMPK, PPARα, CPT1, and CPT2 at the mRNA level. Histological observations confirmed that fat accumulation was reduced in both the ACU and the WA groups compared to the MAFLD group. The WA treatment-promoted amelioration of HFD-induced MAFLD may be related to the activation of the AMPK/SREBP1/ACC pathway in the liver.

STYK1 mediates NK cell anti-tumor response through regulating CCR2 and trafficking

The serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase 1 (STYK1) is a receptor protein-tyrosine kinase (RPTK)-like molecule that is detected in several human organs. STYK1 plays an important role in promoting tumorigenesis and metastasis in various cancers. By analyzing the expression of RTKs in immune cells in the database of 2013 Immunological Genome Project, we found that STYK1 was principally expressed in NK cells. In order to investigate the function of STYK1, we used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate STYK1-deleted mice, we found STYK1 deletion mice have normal number, development, and function of NK cells in spleen and bone marrow in tumor-free resting state. To examine the tumor surveillance of STYK1 in vivo, we utilized a variety of tumor models, including NK cell-specific target cell (ß2M and RMA-S) clearance experiments in vivo, subcutaneous and intravenous injection of B16F10 melanoma model, and the spontaneous breast cancer model MMTV-PyMT. Surprisingly, we discovered that deletion of the oncogenic STYK1 promoted the four-model tumor progression, and we observed a reduction of NK cell accumulation in the tumor tissues of STYK1 deletion mice compared to WT mice. In order to study the mechanism of STYK1 in NK, RNA sequence of STYK1−/− and WT NK have unveiled a disparity in the signaling pathways linked to migration and adhesion in STYK1−/− NK cells. Further analysis of chemokine receptors associated with NK cell migration revealed that STYK1-deficient NK cells exhibited a significant reduction in CCR2 expression. The STYK1 expression was negatively associated with tumor progression in glioma patients. Overall, our study found the expression of STYK1 in NK cell mediates NK cell anti-tumor response through regulating CCR2 and infiltrating into tumor tissue.

Obesity-induced extracellular vesicles proteins drive the endometrial cancer pathogenesis: therapeutic potential of HO-3867 and Metformin.

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the leading gynecologic malignancy in the United States with obesity implicated in 57% of cases. This research investigates the molecular complexities of extracellular vesicles (EV) secretion as carriers of oncogenic protein and their involvement in obesity-mediated EC. An understanding of these mechanisms is pivotal for unraveling pathways relevant to obesity-associated EC, thereby guiding the development of innovative prevention and treatment strategies. Our exploration revealed a significant increase in EV secretion carrying oncogenic proteins (TMEM205, STAT5, and FAS) in adipose and uterine tissues/serum samples from obese EC patients compared to control (without cancer). We identified alterations in EV-regulating proteins (Rab7, Rab11, and Rab27a) in obesity-mediated EC patients, adipose/uterine tissues, and serum samples. Through a 24-week analysis of the effects of a 45% kcal high-fat diet (HFD) on mice, we observed increased body weight, increased adipose tissue, enlarged uterine horns, and increased inflammation in the HFD group. This correlated with elevated levels of EV secretion and increased expression of oncogenic proteins TMEM205, FAS, and STAT5 and downregulation of the tumor suppressor gene PIAS3 in adipose and uterine tissues. Furthermore, our study confirmed that adipocyte derived EV increased EC cell proliferation, migration and xenograft tumor growth. Additionally, we identified that the small molecule inhibitors (HO-3867) or Metformin inhibited EV secretion in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating significant inhibition of high glucose or adipocyte-mediated EC cell proliferation and a reduction in body weight and adipose tissue accumulation when administered to HFD mice. Moreover, HO-3867 or Metformin treatment inhibited HFD induced hyperplasia (precursor of EC) by altering the expression of EV-regulated proteins and decreasing oncogenic protein expression levels. This study provides critical insights into the mechanisms underpinning obesity-mediated EV secretion with oncogenic protein expression, shedding light on their role in EC pathogenesis. Additionally, it offers pre-clinical evidence supporting the initiation of novel studies for EV-targeted therapies aimed at preventing obesity-mediated EC.

Enhancing resveratrol pharmacokinetics and cytotoxicity in ovarian cancer cells via nanostructured lipid carriers

Resveratrol (Res), a potent nutraceutical, holds promise in ameliorating cancer and catalyzing breakthroughs in cancer therapy. Despite numerous preclinical studies on its anticancer activity, translational research progress remains limited. Poor pharmacokinetics and low potency are primary bottlenecks of Res therapy. In this study, we aimed to enhance the pharmacokinetic profile of Res in a rat model and assess its cytotoxicity against human ovarian cancer cells by developing Res loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (Res-NLCs). The Res-NLCs were synthesized using the solvent injection method, featuring a size of 177 nm, a PDI of 0.25, and an entrapment efficiency exceeding 80%. The formulation exhibited stability for three months at 4 °C and 40 °C. Cytotoxicity assessments using the MTT assay and cellular uptake studies on human ovarian cancer cells (PA1 and SKOV3 luc) revealed significantly superior time-dependent cytotoxic effects and cellular accumulation of Res-NLCs compared to free Res. Pharmacokinetic studies of intravenously administered Res in NLCs demonstrated prolonged plasma levels of Res for at least 48 h. Remarkably, Res-NLCs exhibited approximately 15- and 5-fold improvements in AUC and elimination half-life (t1/2), respectively, compared to Res in solution in rats. Moreover, Res tissue distribution from Res-NLCs in rats showed significantly higher accumulation in the liver, lungs, and ovaries over 48 h, underscoring the potential for targeted therapy. In conclusion, NLCs effectively mitigated premature reduction of Res in the bloodstream, prolonged circulation period, and enhanced tissue accumulation. These findings suggest promising prospects for improving therapeutic outcomes in ovarian cancer therapy using Res-NLCs.

Investigating the spatial associations between thatch and white grub populations in imidacloprid‐treated turfgrass

AbstractField surveys were conducted on golf courses reporting the inability of imidacloprid to control white grubs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) when applied preventively. Surveys of five sites with significant past imidacloprid use (&gt;10 years) revealed significantly greater white grub populations in rough‐mown turf following imidacloprid treatment than that of adjacent short‐mown fairways. Additionally, spatial analysis by distance indicEs (SADIE) analyses demonstrated a positive correlation between white grub and thatch spatial patterns. To investigate the impact of thatch on imidacloprid efficacy and translocation throughout the turfgrass plant, greenhouse experiments were conducted using turf with differing thatch levels. Imidacloprid concentrations in soil and plant tissues were measured with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and compared to values obtained through an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit to determine if the latter could be a cost‐effective alternative in future studies. ELISA provided reliable estimates of concentrations of imidacloprid compared to HPLC, with only minor discrepancies noted across different types of treatments and assessment timings. Despite finding higher imidacloprid levels in leaf tissues compared to roots and some differences in concentration across thatch treatments, there was no clear pattern showing that thatch thickness significantly affects imidacloprid penetration or accumulation in plant tissues or soil over time. These findings suggest that factors other than thatch thickness may contribute to the observed field failures of imidacloprid in controlling white grubs. Further research is necessary to identify these factors and optimize the use of imidacloprid in turfgrass pest management strategies.

A quantitative review of the effects of biochar application on the reduction of Cu concentration in plant: a meta-analysis.

Contamination and toxicity of copper (Cu) in soils are global issues, particularly in regions where Cu-based fungicides are utilized. Elevated Cu concentrations can lead to soil contamination and pose significant risks to the ecosystem, including plant life, wildlife, and human health. The application of biochar has been proposed as a viable strategy to mitigate Cu accumulation in plants. However, there is no quantitative and data-based consensus on the impact of biochar on plant Cu accumulation. In this meta-analysis, 624 data records from 65 published literature were collected and the effects of various factors, including biochar properties, experimental conditions, and soil properties on Cu accumulation in plants, were examined through meta-subgroup analysis and meta-regression models. The results obtained indicate a significant dose-dependent effect of biochar in decreasing Cu concentration in plants by an average of 23.45%. Soils with acidic pH values and medium textures were more conducive for biochar to mitigate Cu accumulation in plant tissues. In addition, manure biochar and green waste biochar were found to be more successful in decreasing Cu concentrations in plants compared to other biochar types. Biochar types with pyrolysis temperatures of > 600°C and pH values of ≥ 10 resulted in greater decreases in plant Cu concentration. Regarding biochar application, biochar minimum range of 1% in potting experiments and 20 t/ha in field experiments have been recommended to effectively decrease Cu concentration in plants. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into Cu transfer mitigation through food chain to human bodies and for policymakers to take preventive measures.

OBESIDADE INFANTIL: FISIOPATOLOGIA E CONSEQUÊNCIAS NA VIDA ADULTA

Introduction: excess weight is due to the abnormally high accumulation of adipose tissue, which results from a caloric surplus through the influence of multiple causal factors, highlighting a sedentary lifestyle and harmful dietary habits. Methodology: study consists of an integrative review of scientific literature, based on previous studies and literary sources, with the bibliographic survey carried out on the Scientific Electronic Library Online portal. Discussion: addresses aspects of childhood obesity, including etiology, clinical picture and diagnosis; with an emphasis on pathophysiology, impacts of childhood obesity in adulthood and management of the disease. Final considerations: considered one of the main epidemics of the 21st century; In this context, childhood obesity stands out, responsible for promoting changes in adipocyte hyperplasia and generating a harmful inheritance for the individual, associated with the repercussions that clinical intervention has in order to prevent and treat excess weight and its respective comorbidities.

Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Zn(II)-Porphyrin Nanotheranostics for Targeted Sonodynamic Therapy.

As a novel noninvasive tumor therapy, sonodynamic therapy (SDT) attracts booming concerns. However, the limited water solubility, inadequate biocompatibility, and low targeting ability of conventional sonosensitizers significantly hinder their potential for clinical application. Herein, novel zinc(II)-porphyrin nanotheranostics (HA@Zn-TCPP) were fabricated in which the zinc(II)-porphyrin (TCPP) metal-organic framework was first constructed by a simple thermal reaction, followed by the addition of hyaluronic acid (HA) for modification. The specific targeting ability of HA facilitated the internalization of HA@Zn-TCPP within tumor cells, resulting in its preferential accumulation in tumor tissues that exhibit CD44 receptor overexpression. The acidic tumor microenvironment induced the rapid decomposition of HA@Zn-TCPP, releasing free TCPP for activating SDT. This controllable generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) could effectively decrease damage to normal tissues. The HA@Zn-TCPP exhibited remarkable antitumor effects in experiments, achieving a tumor inhibition rate of up to 82.1% when under ultrasound. This finding provides an imperative strategy to develop novel sonosensitizers for enhanced SDT.