Phosphatase Activity Research Articles

Varying effects of Vicia sativa and Vicia villosa on bacterial composition and enzyme activities in nutrient-deficient sugarcane soils under greenhouse conditions

Declining soil health and productivity are key challenges faced by sugarcane small-scale growers in South Africa. Incorporating Vicia sativa and Vicia villosa as cover crops can improve soil health by enhancing nutrient-cycling enzyme activities and nitrogen (N) contributions while promoting the presence of beneficial bacteria in the rhizosphere. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the chemical and biological inputs of V. sativa and V. villosa in nutrient-deficient, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) sugarcane plantation soils. The nutrient concentrations, N and phosphorus (P) cycling bacteria, and extracellular enzyme activities of 5 soils were determined pre-planting and post-V. sativa and V. villosa harvest. Post-harvesting soils had higher pH levels than pre-planting soils. The number of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria increased post-V. sativa and V. villosa harvest, with Arthrobacter, Burkholderia, Paraburkholderia and Pseudomonas as the dominant genera. Acid phosphatase and glucosidase activities increased, with Mvutshini and Mzinto showing the most significant increases (phosphatase: 18.66 to 84.67 for V. villosa, 90.33 for V. sativa; glucosidase: 15.33 to 83 for V. villosa and 105 µmolh− 1g− 1 for V. sativa). In conclusion, V. sativa and V. villosa increased PGPR, pH and enzyme activities, making them viable cover crops for nutrient-deficient sugarcane soils.

Preliminary Research on Dietary Supplementation of Potassium Magnesium Sulphate on Transport Stress in Finishing Pigs Prior to Slaughter

Transport stress prior to slaughter frequently induces a stress response, negatively affecting meat quality. This study investigated the impact of dietary potassium magnesium sulphate (PMS) supplementation during the fattening stage on the stress response and meat quality in finishing pigs subjected to transport stress. The experiment involved two phases. Initially, 48 finishing pigs (68.00 ± 0.40 kg) were randomly allocated into two groups: a control group receiving a basal diet (CON) and a PMS-supplemented group receiving the basal diet with 0.50% PMS. Each group was housed in six pens, with four pigs per pen. After 60 days of feeding, in the second phase, two pigs from each pen were randomly selected for slaughter, with one pig subjected to a 4 h transportation stress prior to slaughter. Pigs were categorized into four treatment groups based on diet and stress: (1) control without transport stress, (2) control with transport stress, (3) PMS-supplemented without transport stress, and (4) PMS-supplemented with transport stress. Serum, jejunum, and longissimus thoracis muscle (LM) samples were collected. The results indicated that dietary PMS supplementation did not significantly affect growth performance during the fattening stage (p > 0.05). However, following transport, the PMS pigs showed a reduction in norepinephrine and cortisol concentrations (p = 0.09, p < 0.05) and a significant increase in serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity (p < 0.05). Furthermore, PMS supplementation significantly increased serum catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (p < 0.05), while significantly reducing cholesterol (CHO) levels (p < 0.05). Transport stress adversely affected the intestinal health of finishing pigs, as evidenced by a decrease in intestinal villus height (0.05 < p < 0.1), a condition ameliorated by PMS supplementation. Additionally, transported pigs exhibited a higher drip loss24h in LM (p < 0.05), which was also alleviated through PMS supplementation. In conclusion, PMS supplementation mitigates transport stress and improves meat quality in finishing pigs.

Enhancing Bioactivity of Titanium-Based Materials Through Chitosan Based Coating and Calcitriol Functionalization.

Titanium (Ti)-based materials are favored for hard tissue applications, yet their bioinertness limits their success. This study hypothesizes that functionalizing Ti materials with chitosan nano/microspheres and calcitriol (VD) will enhance their bioactivity by improving cellular activities and mineralization. To test this, chitosan particles were applied uniformly onto Ti surfaces using electrophoretic deposition (EPD) at 20V for 3 minutes. VD was then loaded onto the coated surfaces, and the release profile of VD was monitored. Human fetal osteoblastic cells (hFOB) were cultured on the VD-loaded Ti surfaces. Cellular activities such as proliferation, Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, osteogenic gene expression (runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), collagen type 1 (Col I), osteocalcin ( OCn), osteopontin (OP)), and mineralization were assessed. Von Kossa staining was performed to analyze mineralization, and the expression of cell adhesion proteins (N-cadherin (NC), integrin alpha V (IaV), integrin beta 3, (Ib3)) was measured. The results showed that approximately 50% of the VD released over 50 hours. The chitosan coating increased surface roughness three-fold, and this, combined with VD release, resulted in reduced cell proliferation but increased ALP activity, suggesting enhanced differentiation. VD-functionalized Ti surfaces showed statistically significant differences in osteogenic gene expressions, particularly on rougher surfaces. Additionally, the expression of cell adhesion proteins (NC, IaV, Ib3) was upregulated on VD-containing coated surfaces. Von Kossa analysis revealed that surface roughness significantly enhanced mineralization, particularly on VD-free surfaces by day 7, while mineralization on VD-containing bare surfaces started on day 14. These findings demonstrate that VD-loaded chitosan coatings significantly enhance the biocompatibility and bioactivity of Ti-based materials, highlighting their potential for applications in bone regeneration.

In vitro evaluation of bioabsorbable poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) warp-knitted spacer fabric scaffolds for osteogenic differentiation

Bioabsorbable textile scaffolds are promising for bone tissue engineering applications. Their tuneable, porous, fibre-based architecture resembles that of native extracellular matrix, and they can sustain tissue growth while being gradually absorbed in the body. In this work, immortalized mouse calvaria preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells were culturedin vitroon two warp-knitted bioabsorbable spacer fabric scaffolds made of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB), to investigate their osteogenic properties. Scaffold structure and yarn properties were characterized after manufacturing. Cells were seeded on the two scaffolds and treated with osteogenic media for up to 35 days. Both scaffolds supported similar cell growth patterns, featuring a higher cell density on multifilament yarns, which could be beneficial to drive cell proliferation or related phenomena in localized area of the construct. The increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and the calcium deposition observed on some PLA and P4HB scaffolds after 28 and 35 days of culture, confirm their potential to support MC3T3-E1 cells differentiation, however inconsistent mineralization was observed on the scaffolds. Due to their structural and morphological features, ability to support cell attachment and growth, and their limited osteogenic potential, these PLA and P4HB bioabsorbable textile scaffolds are recommended for further investigation for bone tissue engineering applications.

Yeast cell wall polysaccharides accelerate yet in-feed antibiotic delays intestinal development and maturation via modulating gut microbiome in chickens

BackgroundIt is important to promote intestinal development and maturation of chicks for feed digestion and utilization, intestinal health, and disease resistance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary yeast cell wall polysaccharides (YCWP) addition on intestinal development and maturation of chickens and its potential action mechanism.Methods180 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned to three groups containing control (basal diets without any antibiotics or anticoccidial drug), bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD)-treated group (50 mg/kg) and YCWP-supplemented group (100 mg/kg).ResultsCompared with control group, in-feed antibiotic BMD continuous administration significantly decreased crypt depth (d 21) and villus height (d 42) along with mucosal maltase activity (d 42) in the ileum (P < 0.05). Also, BMD markedly downregulated gene expression levels of β-catenin, lysozyme, occludin and FABP-2 (d 21) and innate immune related genes CD83 and MHC-I mRNA levels (d 42, P < 0.05), and decreased goblet cell counts in the ileum of chickens (d 21 and d 42, P < 0.05). While, TLR-2, TLR-6 and iNOS mRNA abundances were notably upregulated by BMD treatment (d 42, P < 0.05). Nevertheless, dietary YCWP addition significantly increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (d 21), villus surface area (d 21 and d 42), ileal alkaline phosphatase and maltase activities as well as goblet cell (d 21 and d 42) and IgA-producing plasma cell numbers as compared to BMD treatment (d 21, P < 0.05). YCWP addition also upregulated gene expression levels of Lgr5, Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway related gene (Wnt3, β-catenin, d 21; β-catenin, d 42), intestinal cells proliferation marker Ki-67 and barrier function related genes (occludin, d 21 and d 42, P < 0.05). Moreover, YCWP significantly increased antigen presenting cell marker related genes (MHC-II, d 21; CD83 and MHC-I, d 42), TLR-1, TLR-2 and TLR-6 mRNA levels (d 21, P < 0.05). Cecal microbiome analysis showed that YCWP addition obviously improved cecal microbial composition, as indicated by increasing relative abundance of Fournierella, Psychrobacter and Ruminiclostridium on d 21, and Alistipes and Lactobacillus on d 42, which were positively related with gut development and maturation related indexes (P < 0.05).ConclusionCollectively, YCWP promoted yet antibiotic BMD delayed intestinal morphological and immunological development linked with modulating gut microbiome in chickens.

Effect of c-Myb overexpression on osteoblastic-, odontoblastic-, and cementoblastic differentiation of primary human periodontal ligament cells.

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a connective tissue, and PDL cells have a potential to differentiate into cementoblasts, osteoblasts, and gingival fibroblasts. This study investigated whether transcription factor c-Myb could induce differentiation of PDL cells for periodontal regeneration. PDL cells were isolated from extracted teeth and cultured. c-Myb was transfected to PDL cells using replication-deficient adenoviral vector. Differentiation of the PDL cells was analyzed by immunoblot, alkaline phosphatase activity, Alizarin red stain, and immunofluorescence analysis. Cell viability on titanium surfaces was analyzed by crystal violet stain and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. PDL cells cultured in osteogenic medium showed increased production of osteogenic and cementogenic molecules. Moreover, c-Myb-transfected cells showed increased production of dentinogenic molecules, in addition to the osteogenic and cementogenic molecules, even in normal culture condition. c-Myb-transfected cells also exhibited increased autophagy and type I collagen production under nutrient deprivation. When grown on a titanium surface, c-Myb-transfected cells showed increased production of osteogenesis-, dentinogenesis-, and cementogenesis-related molecules and cell viability. Thus, these results suggest that c-Myb might play an essential role during periodontal regeneration by improving the differentiation of PDL cells, and c-Myb can be utilized for enhancing the attachment of PDL cells to dental implant surfaces.

Effects of green manuring on chemical characteristics and microecology of tobacco-growing soil in central henan

ObjectiveThis study explored green manuring effects on microecology, carbon/nitrogen levels, and enzyme activity in tobacco-growing soils.MethodsAfter 30,000 kg·hm⁻² overpressure and 28 days of natural decomposition, plants (Hordeum vulgare L. (DM), Secale cereale L. (HM), Medicago sativa L. (MX), Vicia dasycarpa Ten. (SZ), Brassica napus L. (YC), and Astragalus sinicus L. (ZY)) were grown in a lab to analyze changes in carbon and nitrogen components, microbial community structure, and enzyme activities in the soil.ResultsThe results showed improved soil nutrition and increased organic matter, nitrate-nitrogen, and ammonium-nitrogen levels. Except for MX, the other treatments markedly enhanced carbon/nitrogen in the soil microbial biomass. Compared to the CK treatment, the HM treatment boosted alkaline phosphatase and catalase activities by 20.54% and 61.98%, respectively, and increased the soil microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen content by 99.59% and 61.07%, respectively. Green manuring altered bacterial and fungal community structures. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, Firmicutes, Acidobacteria, Planctomycotes, and Gemmatimonadetes were the dominant bacterial communities. MX significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes. Over half of all soil fungi were Ascomycota, with SZ substantially increasing their abundance. LEfSe analysis revealed 29 differential bacterial and fungal species (LDA > 3.5); fungi comprised 29 distinct species in six treatments (LDA > 4), with the exception of the YC treatment. Fusarium and Mortierella were positively correlated with sucrase and urease activities and negatively correlated with other markers, whereas Sphingomonas was strongly negatively correlated with UE and positively correlated with other indicators. HM showed the highest relative abundance of genes related to the tricarboxylic acid cycle (icd), starch breakdown (malZ), nitrification process (amoABC, hao), and nitrogen fixation process (nifK, nifD, nifH). Secale cereale L. manuring effectively improved the carbon sequestration and nitrogen mineralization capacity of soil microorganisms.ConclusionGreen manuring improved soil nutrition and microecology, controlling bacterial community composition, with optimal results when turning Secale cereale L. first.

The Potential Role of Sanguinarine as an Inhibitor of Leishmania PP2C in the Induction of Apoptosis

Leishmania spp. cause a wide range of human diseases, localized skin lesions, mucocutaneous and visceral infections. In the present study, the aim was to investigate the potential role of sanguinarine as a specific inhibitor of Leishmania PP2C that can induce apoptosis in the parasite. The results demonstrated that sanguinarine inhibits, in a dose-dependent mode at 72 h, the growth and phosphatase activity of both Leishmania major and Leishmania mexicana promastigotes. Therefore, all assays were performed from this time period onwards. TUNEL assay was used to identify apoptosis and indicated apoptosis in L. major and L. mexicana promastigotes. Similarly, Western blot assay showed that PARP, a DNA damage indicator molecule, was present in L. major and L. mexicana promastigotes incubated with the inhibitor. In addition, differential expression of the proapoptotic protein Bax and the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 was observed in both Leishmania species. Finally, the protein phosphatase PP2C expression was not affected, whereas p38 MAPK phosphorylation was increased in L. major promastigotes than in L. mexicana promastigotes. Therefore, sanguinarine proved to be an inhibitor of the growth and PP2C enzymatic activity of L. major and L. mexicana promastigotes, and with it, this inhibition induced apoptosis.

Volumetric bioprinting of the osteoid niche

Volumetric bioprinting has revolutionized the field of biofabrication by enabling the creation of cubic centimeter-scale living constructs at faster printing times (in the order of seconds). However, a key challenge remains: developing a wider variety of available osteogenic bioinks that allow osteogenic maturation of the encapsulated cells within the construct. Herein, the bioink exploiting a step-growth mechanism (norbornene-norbornene functionalized gelatin in combination with thiolated gelatin-GelNBNBSH) outperformed the bioink exploiting a chain-growth mechanism (gelatin methacryloyl-GelMA), as the necessary photo-initiator concentration was three times lower combined with a more than 50% reduction in required light exposure dose resulting in an improved positive and negative resolution. To mimic the substrate elasticity of the osteoid, two concentrations of the photo-initiator Li-TPO-L (1 and 10 mg ml-1) were compared for post-curing whereby the lowest concentration was selected since it resulted in attaining the osteogenic substrate elasticity combined with excellent biocompatibility with HT1080 cells (>95%). Further physico-chemical testing revealed that the volumetric printing (VP) process affected the degradation time of the constructs with volumetric constructs degrading slower than the control sheets which could be due to the introduced fibrillar structure inherent to the VP process. Moreover, GelNBNBSH volumetric constructs significantly outperformed the GelMA volumetric constructs in terms of a 2-fold increase in photo-crosslinkable moiety conversion and a 3-fold increase in bulk stiffness of the construct. Finally, a 21-day osteogenic cell study was performed with highly viable dental pulp-derived stem cells (>95%) encapsulated within the volumetric printed constructs. Osteogenesis was greatly favored for the GelNBNBSH constructs through enhanced early (alkaline phosphatase activity) and late maturation (calcium production) osteogenic markers. After 21 d, a secretome analysis revealed a more mature osteogenic phenotype within GelNBNBSH constructs as compared to their chain-growth counterpart in terms of osteogenic, immunological and angiogenic signaling.

Mechanistic insights of methylcinnamate in improving oxidative stress and inflammation in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxic mice by upregulating Nrf2 pathway.

Methylcinnamate (MC), a safe flavoring agent naturally found in Occimum basilicum L. is reported to have an anti-inflammatory responses in various disease models. Acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity is a significant contributor to acute liver injury, which leads to oxidative stress and inflammation. The transcriptional factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulated the cellular defense mechanisms aid to antioxidant response facilitation and reduction in inflammation against various disorders. This study evaluated the protective effects of MC in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in mice and its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and Nrf2 mechanisms were studied. In-vitro 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay showed the antioxidant capacity of MC. Mice were pretreated with MC (25, 50, 75, and 100mg/kg) orally for 7 days. After a fasting period of 16h, hepatotoxicity was induced by injecting APAP 300mg/kg intraperitoneal on day 7. Liver profile, oxidative test, and histopathological changes were studied. Gene expression of interlukin-1β (IL-1β), interlukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), Nrf2, and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone) 1 (NQO-1) were estimated by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations were also analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The MC treatment showed a notable reduction in alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities, and total bilirubin level of serum. Moreover, MC significantly attenuated oxidative stress by rising the antioxidant enzymes catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase and reducing the malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels in the liver. Furthermore, MC successfully mitigated the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, which were estimated through RT-qPCR and ELISA. The RT-qPCR revealed a CYP2E1 enzyme inhibition and significant upregulation of hepatic Nrf2 and NQO-1 levels after MC therapy. Histopathological analysis showed improvement in liver injury within the MC treatment groups. It was concluded from this study that pretreatment of MC had successfully protected the liver through anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant activity upon subsequent activation of Nrf2.

What is known and unknown about the role of neuroendocrine genes Ptprn and Ptprn2

The protein tyrosine phosphatase receptors N and N2 are encoded by the Ptprn and Ptprn2 genes expressed in neuroendocrine cells of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and diffuse neuroendocrine system, including the pancreas, lung, and intestine. Unlike other members of the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor family, PTPRN and PTPRN2 lack protein tyrosine phosphatase activity due to mutation of two residues in their intracellular catalytic domains. However, during evolution these proteins acquired new cellular roles beyond tyrosine dephosphorylation in the centralized and diffuse neuroendocrine systems. Here we discuss the current understanding and lack of information about the actions of these proteins, focusing on neuroendocrine cells of the hypothalamus, pituitary, and pancreas.

Effect of Application of Nitrogen Fertilizer, Microbial and Humic Substance-Based Biostimulants on Soil Microbiological Properties During Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) Cultivation

Plant biostimulants have been the subject of intense interest in recent years. The aim of this study was to assess, during the years 2021–2022, the effect of mineral nitrogen (N) fertilizer, experimental (PGPB) and commercial (G) microbial biostimulants, and humic substance product (A) on the soil microbial communities, and yield of strawberries, under field conditions. Dehydrogenase activity was significantly affected by nitrogen fertilization, but an increase occurred in the treatment N+G. The treatments N+G, N+G+A, and N+PGPB+A increased FDA hydrolysis, and phosphatase activity. All plant biostimulants increased basal as well as substrate-induced respiration. Culturable bacteria (total counts, dormant forms, actinomycetes) were not clearly affected by treatment. Based on 16S rRNA analysis, bacterial community composition was different in N+PGPB+A and N+G+A treatments. The number of cultivable fungi was significantly lower in N+PGPB and N+PGPB+A treatments. The genus of fungi Pilidium, a potential phytopathogen of strawberries, was present in the second year, but in these treatments, it was absent. In the second year, strawberry yield was shown to be 95% higher in the N+PGPB+A treatment than in the control. Microbial biostimulants in combination with humic substances represent a potential solution in increasing strawberry production.

A novel therapeutic strategy utilizing EpCAM aptamer-conjugated gemcitabine for targeting bladder cancer and cancer stem cells.

Gemcitabine (GEM) is a first line chemotherapy drug for bladder cancer (BCa). GEM's lack of specificity has led to disadvantages, resulting in low efficiency, especially when combined with the targeted treatment of BCa stem cells (CSCs), which is considered the cause of BCa recurrence and progression. To enhance the anti-cancer effect and reduce the side effects of GEM targeting of BCa cells/CSCs, an aptamer drug conjugate (ApDC) targeted delivery system was used to improve the efficiency of GEM in BCa therapy using EpCAM aptamer-GEM conjugates based on the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), which is highly expressed on the cell membrane of BCa cells/CSCs. We designed and synthesized EpCAM aptamer gemcitabine conjugates (EpCAM-GEMs, one aptamer carried three GEMs). The targeting effect of EpCAM-GEMs was examined in a xenograft model using an in vivo imaging system. To evaluate the antitumor activity and mechanism of EpCAM-GEMs, Cell Counting Kit-8, apoptosis and colony formation assays; BCa CSC xenotransplantation; xenotransplantation of subcutaneous tumors; a lung metastasis model; an in situ model; and biosafety assessment were used in vitro and in vivo. EpCAM is highly expressed on the surface of BCa cells/CSCs. EpCAM-GEMs were automatically synthesized using a DNA synthesizer, were stable in serum, and selectively delivered GEM to kill BCa cells/CSCs. EpCAM-GEMs entered BCa cells via macropinocytosis, released GEM to inhibit DNA synthesis, and degraded all BCa cells under the action of a BCa cell intracellular phosphatase; however, they did not kill normal cells because of their low EpCAM expression. EpCAM-GEMs inhibited BCa growth and metastasis in three bladder tumor models, with good biosafety. These results demonstrated the targeted anti-tumor efficiency and good biosafety of EpCAM-GEMs in BCa treatment, which will provide a new therapeutic strategy in BCa biomarker targeted therapy.

MST1R Gene Variants Predispose Individuals to Tetralogy of Fallot

Abstract Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart malformation. While a few susceptibility genes for TOF have been identified, research on the genetic basis of TOF is limited. The Macrophage stimulating 1 receptor (MST1R) gene encodes the macrophage-stimulating protein receptor with tyrosine phosphatase activity that is involved in immune defense. In this study, we performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) on 10 TOF families and 50 sporadic TOF patients and identified a recessive homozygous missense mutation in MST1R, c.T2009G: p.V670G, in two offspring with TOF in a single family. Targeted sequencing of the MST1R gene showed enrichment for rare variants in 417 TOF patients compared with East Asians in Genome Aggregation Database Version 2 (gnomADv2_EAS). MST1R-deficient human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) maintained normal pluripotency but differentiated into non-functional cardiomyocytes (CMs). Taken together, our findings indicate that MST1R may play a critical role in cardiac differentiation and genetic variations in MST1R may be associated with the pathogenesis of TOF.

Defect-Engineered Luminescent Nanozyme with Enhanced Phosphohydrolase Activity for Degradation and Dual-Mode Detection of Paraoxon.

The excessive use of organophosphorus pesticides poses a substantial threat to both human health and the environment. Consequently, there is an urgent need for new methods that can quickly degrade and sensitively detect these compounds. A versatile nanozyme based on the biomimetic principle is an effective strategy to solve this problem. In this study, a multifunctional luminescent nanozyme Eu@Ce/UiO-67 composed of Eu3+ and a bimetallic organic framework Ce/UiO-67 is developed for the degradation and dual-mode detection of paraoxon. The doping of Ce4+ results in the formation of more defective structures in Eu@Ce/UiO-67, which significantly enhances the phosphatase activity of Eu@Ce/UiO-67 and the degradation efficiency of paraoxon. The hydrolysis product 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) shows a distinct UV-vis absorption in the visible light region and can quench the fluorescence of Eu@Ce/UiO-67 by the effect of photo-induced electron transfer (PET), thus achieving dual-mode detection of paraoxon by colorimetric and fluorescent methods. This study provides a new idea for the simultaneous monitoring and degradation of organophosphorus pesticides, expanding the boundaries of "integration of diagnosis and treatment" for environmental pollutants.

Deer antler velvet (Cervus elaphus sibiricus) promotes fracture healing via partial BMP2-Smad mediated osteoblast differentiation

Background Cervus elaphus Sibiricus(CES) has been traditionally used in Korean clinics to promote fracture healing based on its function of tonifying the kidneys and strengthening bones. However, experimental data supporting its efficacy are still insufficient. The aim of this study investigated the bone-union properties of CES in a femoral fracture animal model and its corresponding molecular mechanisms.MethodsFifty-four C57BL/6 male mice underwent femoral shaft fracture by Bonnarens and Einhorn’s method, subsequently receiving a water extract of CES (200 mg/kg/day, daily) for 7 and 14 days. Safranin O staining and immunohistochemistry of the fracture region were conducted against transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), and osterix. MG63 cells used to examine the underlying mechanisms of CES focused on BMP2-Smad pathway-related osteogenesis.ResultsCES administration led to earlier union of the fractured bones, supported by Safranin O staining of the fracture region, demonstrating significantly increased cartilage formation day on 7 and a rapidly decreased cartilage area due to callus formation day on 14. CES administration also significantly upregulated the expression of TGF-β1 day 7, BMP 2, and osterix day 14 at the fracture site and also up-regulated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition, and the phosphorylation of Smad in MG63 cells.ConclusionsCES promotes fracture healing by promoting osteoblastogenesis via a partial BMP2-Smad pathway.

Palm Tocotrienol Activates the Wnt3a/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway, Protecting MC3T3-E1 Osteoblasts from Cellular Damage Caused by Dexamethasone and Promoting Bone Formation.

Background and aim: Prolonged glucocorticoid (GC) treatment increases oxidative stress, triggers apoptosis of osteoblasts, and contributes to osteoporosis. Tocotrienol, as an antioxidant, could protect the osteoblasts and preserve bone quality under glucocorticoid treatment. From this study, we aimed to determine the effects of tocotrienol on MC3T3-E1 murine pre-osteoblastic cells treated with GC. Methods: MC3T3-E1 cells were exposed to dexamethasone (150 µM), with or without palm tocotrienol (PTT; 0.25, 0.5, and 1 µg/mL). Cell viability was measured by the MTS assay. Alizarin Red staining was performed to detect calcium deposits. Cellular alkaline phosphatase activity was measured to evaluate osteogenic activity. The expression of osteoblastic differentiation markers was measured by an enzyme-linked immunoassay. Results: Enhanced matrix mineralization was observed in the cells treated with 0.5 µg/mL PTT, especially on day 18 (p < 0.05). The expression of Wnt3a, β-catenin, collagen 1α1, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6, and runt-related transcription factor-2 were significantly increased in the PTT-treated groups compared to the vehicle control group, especially at 0.5 µg/mL of PTT (p < 0.05) and on day 6 of treatment. Conclusions: PTT maintains the osteogenic activity of the dexamethasone-treated osteoblasts by promoting their differentiation.

Assessment of technogenic pollution by silver compounds on the biological properties of the soil (Model experiment)

Introduction: Silver (Ag) has increasingly become one of the priority pollutants of soils, which is accompanied by a number of consequences for humans and soil biota. To fully assess the effects of the entry of different chemical forms of Ag into soils, it is necessary to conduct experiments with different types of soils, different exposure periods, as well as a wide range of biological indicators. The purpose of the study is to assess technogenic pollution by silver compounds (silver oxide (Ag2O) and nitrate (AgNO3)) on the biological properties of the soil in model experiment of the soil in a model experiment, followed by the use of the data obtained in the normalization of the Ag content in the soil. Materials and methods: The effect of Ag2O and AgNO3 was investigatedin specific permissible concentrations of biological indicators of the state of Haplic Chernozems Calcic (HCC), Haplic Cambisols Eutric (HCE) and Haplic Arenosols Eutric (HAE). Ecotoxicity was assessed by the degree of changes in the indicators of enzymatic activity, microbiological and phytotoxic indicators of soils 10, 30 and 90 days after contamination. Activity of catalase it was determined gasometrically, dehydrogenases, peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase, ferrireductase, ascorbatoxidase, phosphatase, invertase, urease, protease was determined photocolorimetrically, the total number of bacteria by luminescent method, Azotobacter sp. abundance by the method of fouling lumps on the Ashby medium, length of shoots and roots of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) morphometrically. Results: It was revealed that Ag ecotoxicity was determined by the content of Ag in the soil, its form, the period from the moment of contamination and soil type. In most cases, AgNO3 had a stronger ecotoxic effect on biological parameters. Phosphatase activity and number of soil bacteria are the most sensitive indicators. The activity of invertase, urease, dehydrogenases and Azotobacter sp. abundance are the most informative indicators. Conclusion: Abundance is the most informative indicator. The results obtained to assess the ecotoxicity of soils contaminated with Ag, as well as the identified sensitive and informative indicators, can be used for diagnosis and as an indicator of the ecological state of soils.

Morpho-physiological digestive features of genetically closelyrelated sympatric lacustrine whitefish forms with different feeding habits.

The effect of different feeding habits on gut morphology and digestive function has been intensively studied during the last decades but sympatric closelyrelated fishes are relatively rare objects of such studies. In the present study, we have identified both morphological and physiological changes in the digestive system of a sympatric pair of whitefish represented by "normal" Coregonus lavaretus pidschian (benthivorous) and "dwarf" C. l. pravdinellus (planktivorous) forms. There were statistically significant differences in terms of histometric variables between segments of the stomach (height of lining epithelium, fold thickness and height values, and number of folds) and intestine (enterocyte height and fold height) within each form as well as between forms for the same segment of the digestive tract like in the stomach (height of lining epithelium and fold thickness) and intestine (enterocyte height, fold height and fold thickness). Both forms had a similar number (8-9 bands) and molecular weight of isoforms/isoenzymes of alkaline proteases inhibited by PMSF (serine proteases) based on zymogram analyses. The maximum level of activity of alkaline proteases, alkaline phosphatase, and aminopeptidase N were registered in the pyloric caeca for both forms. In contrast to these enzymes, the activity of α-amylase as well as of non-specific lipases and esterases in the pyloric caeca was similar or even lower if compared to other intestinal segments. In conclusion, both sympatric forms of whitefish showed some similarities in several of studied biochemical and histological parameters of their digestive tracts, regardless of their different feeding habits, which might be related to their genetical background.

The Effect of Weed Control with Pre-Emergence Herbicides on the Yield Level of Mung Bean Yield.

The mung bean (Vigna radiata (Linn) Wilczek.) is a major grain crop in China, but its yield is significantly impacted by weeds. However, no pre-emergence herbicides are registered for mung bean fields in the China Pesticide Information Network. Screening for efficient and safe pre-emergence herbicides could improve mung bean production efficiency. In this study, six pre-emergence herbicides were selected: 480 g/L alachlor (1935.00 g a.i ha-1), 720 g/L metolachlor (1620.00 g a.i ha-1), 100 g/L imazethapyr (100.50 g a.i ha-1), 338 g/L oxadiazon (507.00 g a.i ha-1), 330 g/L pendimethalin (144.00 g a.i ha-1), and 480 g/L trifluralin (720.00 g a.i ha-1). Through Petri dish screening, a spraying treatment was carried out before seed germination. By measuring the root length and shoot length, imazethapyr (100.50 g a.i ha-1) and oxadiazon (507.00 g a.i ha-1) were screened out. They were applied to potted plants and sprayed after sowing. The results showed that imazethapyr (100.50 g a.i. ha-1) and oxadiazon (507.00 g a.i. ha-1) had no inhibitory effect on the growth and development of the mung bean. Subsequently, experiments were conducted with imazethapyr (100.50 g a.i ha-1) and oxadiazon (507.00 g a.i ha-1) applied in the field. Compared to the control, under imazethapyr (100.50 g a.i ha-1) and oxadiazon (507.00 g a.i ha-1), the agronomic traits, photosynthetic pigment content, yield, and yield components were not inhibited; the activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase were increased; and gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence were not inhibited. In addition, soil urease activity decreased and soil invertase and alkaline phosphatase activity increased after 60 d of treatment. In summary, imazethapyr and oxadiazon can effectively control weeds and increase mung bean yield. The purpose of this study is to screen out safe and efficient pre-emergence herbicides suitable for the Shanxi mung bean, which is of great significance due to its large-scale planting industrialization and the development of advantageous industries.