Effect Of Various Concentrations Research Articles

Evaluating Paeonia emodi propagation protocols by seed and root cuttings and phytochemical analysis of the plants

The present study aimed to develop conventional propagation protocols for Paeonia emodi, a threatened and high-value medicinal herb of the Himalayan region. Different experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of various concentrations of plant growth regulators (PGRs) on seed germination and vegetative propagation (root cuttings) in nursery conditions. Leaves of well-developed plants were used to evaluate phytochemical content and antioxidant activity. Seed germination percentage reached a maximum (78.88 ± 1.25%) with gibberellic acid + abscisic acid treatment (GA3+ABA) at a concentration of 100 µM each. However, 100% sprouting was observed in roots treated with 500 mg L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Seeds treated with GA3 (100 µM) induced a maximum plant height (11.98 ± 0.05 cm). Similarly, roots treated with IBA (500 mg L−1) resulted in 35.54 ± 0.84 cm plant height and maximum root diameter (25.18 ± 0.90 mm) in IBA (100 mg L−1) treated plants. Among differently treated plants, total phenolic content (100.95 ± 1.36 mg GAE/g dw) and 2, 2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate assay activity (25.24 ± 0.35 mg AAE/g dw) were higher in GA3+ABA (100 µM each) treated seed raised plants. However, vegetatively propagated plants treated with IBA 100 mg L−1 had the highest levels of total phenolics (110.42 ± 3.42 mg GAE/g dw) and 2, 2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay activity (22.35 ± 0.48 mg AAE/g dw). The results of the study will help in the mass multiplication of the species for large-scale production.

Mesenchymal stem cells treated with Interleukin-1 beta for mediation of an inflammatory response in human tissues.

The present study examined the functional activities of the human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) under the effects of various concentrations of the inflammatory mediator interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). The effects of IL-1β on the functional properties of hBM-MSCs were measured using functional assays (adhesion, proliferation, and migration). hBM-MSCs expressions of colony-stimulating factors 1 and 2 (CSF1, CSF2), C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 1 and 3 (CXCL1, CXCL3), were examined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT‒PCR). The pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β did not disrupt hBM-MSCs adhesion, but it improved proliferation and migration only up to 50 ng/ml. However, in response to 100 ng/ml IL-1β, cell growth, proliferation, and migration were reduced significantly. The expression of CSF1, CCR2, CXCL3, and IL-1β genes increased with the increase in the concentration of IL-1β. CSF2 and CXCL1 gene expression increased in the 50ng/ml group compared with the 10ng/ml group to be higher than the control group in the 100ng/ml IL-1β group which might facilitate the differentiation, and homing of MSCs to the site of injury and augment their activities in the inflamed microenvironment. The study corroborates the advantages of prior stimulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with the cytokine IL-1β, demonstrating an upregulation of key chemokines and cytokines. This upregulation potentially enhances MSCs' ability to differentiate and migrate to injury sites, while also augmenting their functional role within an inflamed microenvironment, thereby amplifying their therapeutic potential.

TFC‐1326 Compound Reduces Clinical Signs of Skin Aging. Evidence From In Vitro Human Adipose and Skin Models and Pilot Clinical Trial

ABSTRACTBackgroundAnti‐freeze Glycoproteins (AFGPs) were described to preserve biological materials and protect them from different stresses.AimsThe effects of a synthetic anti‐freeze glycoprotein‐based compound, TFC‐1326, on human skin quality and its biological actions were studied.MethodsThe effects of various concentrations of TFC‐1326 on the biology of human preadipocytes, differentiated in the proinflammatory microenvironment, and on human fibroblasts grown in coculture with human mature adipocytes or monocultured in stress conditions were investigated in, in vitro studies. Additionally, the efficacy of a 1% TFC‐1326 topical cream was evaluated in a clinical investigation on the skin biology and appearance of 20 women aged between 40 and 65 years throughout 84 days of application.ResultsThe in vitro studies revealed that TFC‐1326 mitigated the deleterious effects of a proinflammatory cytokine cocktail produced by human macrophages, by restoring preadipocyte adipogenic capacity and by reducing their fibroinflammatory state. TFC‐1326 also stimulated the proliferative capacity of dermal fibroblasts co‐cultured with mature adipocytes as well as their production of hyaluronic acid and procollagen type I, while decreasing IL6 secretion and increasing fibroblast viability. Furthermore, daily 1% TFC‐1326 topical cream application, measurably improved skin radiance and laxity, as well as skin density. Finally, significant reductions of the volume and depth of the crow's feet wrinkles were also observed.ConclusionsThe compound TFC‐1326 significantly improved the physiological appearance and cellular functions of aging skin.

Nipah Frond Waste as a Renewable Source for Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Nipah frond is one of the wastes that has not been widely utilized by community. Nipah frond contain a relatively high cellulose content that can be used as renewable source for carboxymethyl cellulose production. This research focus on the extraction of cellulose from nipah fronds, followed by synthesis of carboxymethyl cellulose through alkalization and carboxymethylation processes. In the process of the synthesis carboxymethyl cellulose, cellulose was carried out by alkalization and carboxymethylation using sodium hydroxie (NaOH), and trichloroacetic acid. Characterization of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was carried out by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The degree of substitution (DS) was determined using the rasio of -OH and ether absorption. The effect of various concentrations of trichloroacetic acid on the DS of CMC was analyzed. DS of CMC obtained through variations in trichloroacetic acid concentration shows a decreasing trend in DS value due to the formation of by-product that inhibit the carboxymethylation. The maximum DS of 0.92 was obtained when the carboxymethylation process with 15% of trichloroacetic acid. The result of the analysis using FT-IR spectrophotometer showed there is a stretching O-H group at the wave number of 3333 cm-1, and supported with the ether vibration in the 1024 cm-1 and the presence of the carbonyl group COO- at 1601 cm-1.

Responses in organs, sperm, steroid hormones and CYP450 enzyme in male mice treated by quinestrol only or in conjunction with clarithromycin

Pest rodents persistently undermine crop yields and food security. Fertility control could be a viable alternative for managing rodent populations. This study investigates the antifertility effects of various concentrations of clarithromycin combined with 1.0 mg/kg quinestrol on male rodents to determine an effective contraceptive dose that minimizes quinestrol usage, addressing key concerns such as potential environmental residue, which may impact ecological balance, and poor palatability, which could reduce ingestion and limit the sterilant’s effectiveness. Male mice were divided into five groups and administered different doses of clarithromycin or clarithromycin and quinestrol for three consecutive days, while the control group received sunflower seed oil only. After seven days, organ weights, reproductive organ weights, sperm density, serum hormone levels, and CYP3A4 content in small intestinal and liver tissues were measured to assess persistent effects. Compared with the control group, all treatment groups had significant reductions in epididymal weight, seminal vesicle weight, and serum T and LH levels. Higher concentrations of clarithromycin (2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) significantly impacted reproductive metrics, including sperm density, organ weights, and serum LH and testosterone levels, though complete sterilization was not achieved, with more than 60 million cauda epididymal spermatozoa remaining. However, the combination demonstrated potential as an effective strategy for male fertility control. The combination of 2.0 mg/kg clarithromycin and quinestrol can mitigate organ enlargement seen with quinestrol alone. This combination also decreased total enzyme content, thereby diminishing quinestrol’s induction of CYP3A4, which may increase the sterilization effectiveness of the treatment.

Vitamin D3 requirements and relative bioavailability for starter male White Pekin ducks fed either cholecalciferol or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol

The objectives were to investigate effects of various concentrations of dietary vitamin D3 (VD3) or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3) on growth performance, VD3 status, calcium (Ca) metabolism, and tibia mineralization of starter male White Pekin ducks, and dietary requirements and relative bioavailability of these two compounds. One-day-old male White Pekin ducks (n = 624) were assigned to 13 dietary treatments, including 6 added VD3 concentrations (100, 200, 400, 800, 1200, and 2000 IU/kg), and 2 vitamin D3 sources (VD3 and 25-OH-D3), plus a negative control (no vitamin D3 supplementation) for 21 days. Each group had 6 replicate pens of 8 birds per pen. At 21 days of age, growth performance, carcass traits, plasma 25-OH-D3 and Ca content, and tibia mineralization were examined. There was a high incidence of leg disease and mortality in ducks fed the control diet; however, those negative effects were avoided by adequate VD3 or 25-OH-D3 supplementation. Ducks in the negative control group had the lowest body weight, average daily weight gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), breast muscle percentage, plasma 25-OH-D3, plasma Ca, and tibia indices (weight, diameter, ash, density, tibia mineral, strength) (P < 0.05), with all these end points enhanced linearly or quadratically as dietary VD3 or 25-OH-D3 increased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, at 100 or 200 IU/kg, ducks fed 25-OH-D3 had greater body weight, ADG, ADFI, plasma Ca, plasma 25-OH-D3, tibia weight, tibia diameter, tibia ash than those fed VD3 (P < 0.05), indicating 25-OH-D3 was more effective in stimulating growth, Ca absorption, and tibia mineralization. For growth performance, breast muscle percentage, plasma Ca, and tibial indices of starter male Pekin ducks, the VD3 requirements were 281 to 633 IU/kg, whereas 25-OH-D3 requirements were 119 to 395 IU/kg. Based on slope ratio comparisons from multiple linear regressions of plasma 25-OH-D3, bioavailability of 25-OH-D3 was 186% relative to cholecalciferol.

Biosensor for integrin inhibition of mammalian cell adhesion and migration using micropatterned cell culture substrate and retroreflective optical signaling

Integrins are a family of transmembrane receptors that play a crucial role in cell adhesion and migration. Integrins can uniquely transduce biochemical signals bidirectionally across the membrane and physically link the cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) with ligand bonds. The arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide motif is present in the ECM as a minimal recognition sequence for integrins. To leverage this property in cell-based therapy, RGD variants, such as cyclic-type RGDfK (c(RGDfK)), which share a similar structure with RGD but exhibit a higher affinity for integrins, have been developed. However, because most evaluation methods for newly developed RGD variants focus on affinity strength, tools for cellular effects are required. In this study, we developed a new platform that integrates micropatterned three-dimensional cell culture substrates with a non-spectroscopic optical analysis system to quantitatively analyze the effects of RGD variants on cell adhesion and migration. The specially micropatterned substrate provides a cell adhesive and migration area to provide a restricted analysis area. Owing to the characteristics of retroreflective Janus particles (RJPs), a non-spectroscopic optical analysis system provides long-term stable optical verification properties and a simple optical setup. These techniques were integrated to quantitatively determine the integrin inhibitory effect of various concentrations of RGD variant. To demonstrate the efficacy of the developed cellular level RGD variant testing platform, the model cell line L929 fibroblast and model RGD variant c(RGDfK) were analyzed ranging from 0 to 10 μM. The results showed that the developed system could effectively and quantitatively analyze the effects of RGD variants on cells across various concentrations.

Development of wear and pitting curves with vibration analysis for lubricating grease under contamination conditions

The application of grease under contaminated environmental conditions typically leads to its degradation and subsequent damage to lubricated surfaces. This study examines the effects of various concentrations of environmental particles and water content, both separately and in combination, on the variation of tribological characteristics of lithium-based grease during wear. Wear and pitting curves are established for grease contaminated with varying weight percentages of water and particles. The introduction of water into grease reduces wear by absorbing friction heat but increases pitting, while particles extend the running-in period and destabilize surface roughness. In mixed conditions, particles exert a greater influence on the tribological behavior than water. To improve pitting monitoring, vibration indicators FM4 and NA4 are modified by incorporating the cumulative effect of the friction coefficient over time, accounting for the progressive accumulation of wear and vibration energy. The modified FM4 indicator proves more effective in detecting pitting variations under contaminated conditions.

Effect of Flos Sophorae Immaturus extract on the formation of heterocyclic amines and quality characteristics of fried chicken patties

Flos Sophorae Immaturus extract (FSIE) is rich in flavonoids and phenolics. The effects of various concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 g/100 g of meat) of FSIE on the quality and heterocyclic amine (HCA) formation of chicken patties fried at 170°C and 190°C were investigated for the first time. The total HCA content of chicken patties fried at 190°C (7.23-13.73 ng/g) was remarkably higher than that of patties fried at 170°C (2.34-2.57 ng/g). It is noteworthy that most HCAs formed on the surface of the patties. FSIE at 0.2-0.6 g/100 g significantly reduced the formation of HCAs in chicken patties fried at 190°C by 27.09-47.34%, which may be related to the enhanced total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activities of FSIE after heating. With the addition of FSIE, the L* and a* values of meat patties decreased and b* values increased. However, the addition of FSIE to chicken did not negatively affect the sensory attributes of fried chicken patties. Also, FSIE somewhat reduced the TBARS and carbonyl values of fried chicken patties. Correlation analysis revealed that the protein carbonyl value of meat patties was significantly and positively correlated with the total HCA formation (r = 0.90, p < 0.01). These results provide evidence that the addition of FSIE to high-temperature fried products, especially on the product surface or in the frying medium, can effectively reduce the formation of hazardous HCAs.

Evaluating the Protective Effect of Melatonin on Atorvastatin-induced Mitochondrial Toxicity in Pancreatic Beta Cells.

Atorvastatin and other statins belong to a category of cholesterollowering drugs, which may cause some damage to pancreatic cells despite their effectiveness. The present study investigated the effects of melatonin against atorvastatin-induced toxicity on islets of Langerhans and CRI-D2 cells. The MTT assay was used to determine cell viability. The effect of various concentrations of melatonin (0,10, 50, 100, 250, 500 and 1000 μM) on CRI-D2 cell viability was evaluated for 24 hours to determine the non-cytotoxic concentrations of melatonin. Additionally, cells were treated with different concentrations of atorvastatin (10, 100, and 150 ng/mL) for 24 hours to determine a concentration that could induce the maximum cell death. After selecting the appropriate concentrations for melatonin, cells were treated with atorvastatin (10, 100, and 150 ng/ml) and melatonin (10 and 100 μM) simultaneously for a period of 24 hours. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activity were assessed as indicators of oxidative stress. To assess mitochondrial function, the ratio of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were measured. Atorvastatin markedly raised ROS and MDA levels. This result was associated with a decrease in MMP, an increase in the ADP/ATP ratio, and a change in the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Atorvastatin (150 ng/mL)-induced mitochondrial damage was alleviated by concurrent melatonin and atorvastatin therapy. These results suggest that melatonin has a protective effect against atorvastatininduced toxicity in the mitochondria of pancreatic cells.

INFLUENCE OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL FACTORS ON THE SARS-COV-2 STRAIN ISOLATED FROM A DOG

This article presented the results of a study on the impact of physicochemical factors on the biological activity of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus isolated from a dog in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The results indicated that storing the virus at a temperature of -70°C led to a decrease in viral activity, similar to the effect observed when stored at room temperature. Storage at +40°C resulted in complete inactivation of the virus. The study on the effect of various concentrations of ionic and non-ionic detergents revealed that exposure to the ionic detergent DOC at concentrations of 0.1% and 0.5% caused a decrease in viral activity, while no change was observed at a concentration of 0.01%. The detergent SDS, at concentrations of 0.01%, 0.1%, and 0.5%, reduced the biological activity of the virus from the initial titer (5.25 lg TCID50/cm³) to 4.00 lg TCID50/cm³. Similarly, the use of non-ionic detergents, Triton X-100 and Tween-20, led to a reduction in viral activity from the initial titer to 4.50 lg TCID50/cm³. The effect of pH in acidic, neutral, and alkaline environments on the biological activity of the virus was also studied. A decrease in viral activity was observed at acidic and alkaline pH levels, whereas a neutral pH environment had no impact on viral activity.

Facilitation of diabetic wound healing by far upstream element binding protein 1 through augmentation of dermal fibroblast activity.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) often leads to wound healing complications, partly attributed to the accumulation of advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) that impair fibroblast function. Far Upstream Element Binding Protein 1 (FUBP1) regulates cell proliferation, migration, and collagen synthesis. However, the impact of FUBP1 on diabetic wound healing remains unknown. This study is designed to explore the function and mechanisms of FUBP1 in diabetic wound healing. Eighteen Sprague-Dawley rats (weighing 220-240g) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 6): a control group (NC) of healthy rats, a model group (DM) of untreated diabetic rats, and a treatment group (DM + FUBP1) of diabetic rats accepting FUBP1 treatment. A 10mm diameter circular full-thickness skin defect was created on the back of each rat. On days 1 and 7, rats in the treatment group received local injections of 5µg FUBP1 protein at the wound site, whereas the control group and model group were administered saline. Wound healing was documented on days 0, 3, 7, 10, and 14, with tissue samples from the wound areas collected on day 14 for histological analysis, including H&E staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis was utilized to assess the expression of GSK-3β, Wnt3a, and β-catenin. In vitro, the effects of various concentrations of AGEs on cell viability and FUBP1 expression were examined in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). Cells were genetically modified to overexpress FUBP1 using lentiviral vectors and were cultured for 48h in media with or without AGEs. The impacts on fibroblast proliferation, migration, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were evaluated using CCK-8, scratch assays, and Western blot analysis. Animal investigation revealed that from day 7 onwards, the wound healing rate of the treatment group was higher than that of the model group but lower than the control group. On day 14, the wound healing rates were as follows: control group (0.97 ± 0.01), model group (0.84 ± 0.03), and treatment group (0.93 ± 0.01). These differences were statistically significant. Histological analysis indicates that FUBP1 promotes granulation tissue formation, re-epithelialization, and collagen deposition in treatment group. Additionally, FUBP1 protein expression decreased in dermal fibroblasts when exposed to AGEs. Overexpression of FUBP1 significantly enhanced fibroblast proliferation and migration, activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and mitigating the inhibitory effects of AGEs. Our results suggest that FUBP1 can be a promising therapeutic target for diabetic wound healing, potentially counteracting the detrimental effects of AGEs on dermal fibroblasts through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Dose-Response Effect of Various Concentrations of Cl-Containing Water-Soluble Derivatives of C60 Fullerenes on a Selective Regulation of Gene Expression in Human Embryonic Lung Fibroblasts (HELF).

The new synthesized water-soluble derivatives of C60 fullerenes are of a great interest to researchers since they can potentially be promising materials for drug delivery, bioimaging, biosonding, and tissue engineering. Surface functionalization of fullerene derivatives changes their chemical and physical characteristics, increasing their solubility and suitability for different biological systems applications, however, any changes in functionalized fullerenes can modulate their cytotoxicity and antioxidant properties. The toxic or protective effect of fullerene derivatives on cells is realized through the activation or inhibition of genes and proteins of key signaling pathways in cells responsible for regulation of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, proliferation, and apoptosis. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to assess cells viability. Flow cytometry analyses was applied to measure proteins levels in human embryonic lung fibroblasts (HELF) cells. HELF is a standard, stable and well described human cell line that can be passaged many times. Quantitation of ROS was assessed using H2DCFH-DA. Fluorescence images were obtained using microscopy. Expression of BCL2, CCND1, CDKN2A, BRCA1, BAX, NFKB1, NOX4, NRF2, TBP (reference gene) was analyzed using real-time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We found that high and low concentrations of fullerene C60 derivatives with the five residues of potassium salt of 6-(3-phenylpropanamido)hexanoic (F1) or 6-(2-(thiophen-2-yl)acetamido)hexanoic (F2) acid and a chlorine atom attached directly to the cage cause diametrically opposite activation of genes and proteins of key signaling pathways regulating the level of oxidative stress and apoptosis in HELF. High concentrations of F1 and F2 have a genotoxic effect, causing NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) expression activation in 24-72 hours (2-4 fold increase), ROS synthesis induction (increase by 30-40%), DNA damage and breaks (2-2.5 fold 8-oxodG level increases), and activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) (by 40-80%) against the background of reduced NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression (by 20-45%). Low concentrations of F1 and F2 produced a cytoprotective effect: in 24-72 hours they reduce the oxidative DNA damage (by 20-40%), decrease the number of double-strand DNA breaks (by 20-30%), increase the level of anti-apoptotic proteins and enhance the antioxidant response activating the NRF2 expression (NRF2 gene expression increases 1.5-2.3 fold, phosphorylated form of the NRF2 protein increases 2-3 fold). Obtained results show that in low doses studied fullrens may serve as perspective DNA protectors against the damaging genotoxic factors.

Efficacy and Safety of Pilocarpine Eye Drops Combinations for Treating Presbyopia in a Thai Population: A Randomized Crossover Trial

Objective: This study aimed to assess and compare the effectiveness and side effects of various concentrations of pilocarpine eye drops (1.5%, 1.25%, and 1%), with and without 0.1% brimonidine, in treating presbyopia, specifically in a Thai population. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, and crossover trial was conducted at Siriraj Hospital from August 2022 to April 2023. The study included emmetropic individuals aged 40 to 60 with presbyopia (near visual acuity not exceeding J1+) and refractive errors within +/- 0.5D. The ten subjects were assigned randomly to 6 groups for the different concentrations and type of eyedrops using a computer-generated systematic randomization to receive 1.5%, 1.25%, and 1% pilocarpine with and without 0.1% brimonidine. And visual outcomes including visual acuity at distance and near were measured at 2, 4, and 6 hours post-application, with adverse effects monitored. Primary outcome was visual acuity at near after applied topical eye drops. Results: Among the 10 participants (30% male, median age 46.5 years old), 1.25% pilocarpine and combined 1.25% pilocarpine + 0.1% brimonidine significantly improved near visual acuity at all time points (statistically significant with Bonferroni correction). Adverse effects, such as dry eye and irritation, were more common with 1.5% pilocarpine + 0.1% brimonidine. Conclusion: In this preliminary study, 1.25% pilocarpine and 1.25% pilocarpine + 0.1% brimonidine showed promise in effectively treating presbyopia in the Thai study population, with acceptable side effect rates. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these findings and provide more robust insights into presbyopia management in the Asian demographic.

Salinity Studies in Quinoa (Quinoa Chenipodoum Willd) from Haditha Desert, Western of Iraq

The present studies were conducted to determine the effect of various concentrations of NaCl salinity on germination and growth of four genotypes of Quinoa Chenopodium Willd, namely G1 (KVL-SR2), G2 (Q-21), G3 (Q-37), and G4 (Regalona), exposed to 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl. The study was conducted at the Center of Desert Research, Egypt, and the experiment was carried out in the Plant Physiology Laboratory of the Center of Desert Studies. Seeds were treated with four different levels of NaCl concentration: 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM. The experiment followed a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The germination experiment aimed to determine the effect of NaCl salinity on seed germination percentage. Seeds were placed in autoclaved petri dishes lined with two layers of filter paper, with fifty seeds per dish. Seeds were treated with 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl solutions (5 mL). The petri dishes were kept in the laboratory at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 28°C for four weeks. Water loss from the petri dishes due to evaporation was monitored using control petri dishes, and water was added every 24 hours as needed. A pot experiment was conducted using plastic pots containing 1700 grams of fine-sieved soil. Seeds of the aforementioned genotypes were sown in 500 grams of soil, separated from the rest of the pot's soil by a polythene sheet. Plants were watered on alternate days and subjected to salinity treatment 25 days after sowing. Fifty milliliters of nutrient solution (N ratio of 6:4) were also added to the salt solution per pot. The salt solution was applied to the 1200 grams of soil in the pot, and after complete absorption, the polythene sheet separating the soil containing plantlets was removed, allowing the roots of the seedlings to grow into the saline soil in the lower half of the pot. Thinning was done after one week, maintaining five plants per pot. The plants were harvested one month after the salinity treatment. It was observed that the germination percentage decreased as the salinity level increased. G1 was tolerant, while G4 was salt-sensitive compared to the other genotypes. Plant height, number of leaves, and number of nodes per plant decreased with increasing salt concentration. G3 was least affected, followed by G2, G1, and G4. Fresh weight, dry weight, and percentage water content of the plants also significantly decreased with increased salinity. The distribution of Na+ ions in various plant parts showed a high concentration in the roots, stem, leaf blade, and leaf sheath of all genotypes. The highest concentration of Na+ ions was found in the leaf sheath of all genotypes, followed by the stem, root, and leaf blade, with high water content even under the highest salt levels. An effective partition of Na+ and Cl- ions in the leaf sheath and the transport of K+ to the physiologically important leaf blade were observed in G1, while other genotypes did not exhibit this efficiency. The specific ion effect of NaCl on the total N status of plants was most pronounced in G1, followed by G2 and G3, while G4 maintained optimal N levels in the root and leaf blade. The tolerant genotype G1 could be utilized for rehabilitation in salt-affected areas.

Analysis of the Application of Vitamin B1 on the Response of Salinity Stress Resistance in Several Varieties of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)

One of the most common stresses in rice cultivation is salinity. Rice plants stressed by salinity exhibit changes such as yellowing leaves, drying tips, and chlorosis. The efforts made by the government and farmers so far include implementing cultivation scheduling techniques, planting patterns, and using stress-resistant varieties, as well as improving soil to increase water-holding capacity through lime application. Each of these efforts comes with its own risks. Another approach to enhance the growth and yield of rice plants is the application of vitamins. Providing vitamins can stimulate the growth of plant organs, as they play a crucial role in the growth process by acting as catalysts for metabolism. Research has indicated that vitamin B1 can significantly promote plant growth under stressful conditions. This study aims to investigate the positive effects of various concentrations of vitamin B1 on the growth and yield of rice plants while also reducing salinity stress. The method used involved planting three varieties of rice—IR-46, Inpari-32, and Pokkali—in planting buckets using the TABELA system. Vitamin B1 was applied at concentrations of 0, 5, and 10 mM during the peak vegetative phase, with salinity stress of 6 dS/m introduced one day after vitamin application. The plants were maintained under salinity stress conditions until harvest, during which morphological and phytochemical analyses were conducted. Morphological analysis included measurements of plant height, number of tillers, number of productive tillers, number of grains per panicle, and percentage of healthy grains. Biochemical parameters measured included total chlorophyll and electrolyte leakage analysis. The results indicate that vitamin B1 can effectively reduce stress in plants affected by salinity.

Exploration of compounds to inhibit the Panton-Valentine leukocidin of Staphylococcus aureus

The Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) of Staphylococcus aureus is associated with necrotizing infections. After binding to complement 5a receptor (C5aR/CD88) and CD45 it causes cytolysis in polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) as well as inflammasome activation in monocytes. The objective of this study was to test if (ant)agonists of C5aR and CD45 can attenuate the effect of PVL on PMNs and monocytes. We tested the effect of various concentrations of six C5aR (ant)agonists (avacopan, BM213, DF2593A, JPE-1375, PMX205 and W-54011) and one CD45 antagonist (NQ301) to attenuate the cytotoxic effect of PVL on human PMNs and monocytes in vitro. Shifts in the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) of PVL to achieve a cytotoxic effect on PMNs and modulation of inflammatory cytokine response from monocytes were determined by flow cytometry and IL-1β detection. Pre-treatment of PMNs with avacopan, PMX205 and W-54,011 resulted in 3.6- to 4.3-fold shifts in the EC50 for PVL and were able to suppress IL-1β secretion by human monocytes in the presence of PVL. BM213, DF2593A and NQ301 were unable to change the susceptibility of PMNs towards PVL or reduce inflammasome activation in monocytes. Avacopan, PMX205 and W-54,011 showed protection against PVL-induced cytotoxicity and suppressed IL-1β secretion by monocytes. Clinical studies are needed to prove whether these substances can be used therapeutically as repurposed drugs.

Inhibitory Effects of Propolis Flavonoids on Migration and Invasion of Laryngeal Cancer Cell and Analysis of Related Signal Pathways

Laryngeal cancer (LGC) is a malignant tumor that occurs in the larynx, and it is mainly treated through chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Nevertheless, the five-year survival rate for patients is poor. Bee propolis contains various bioactive compounds and abundant anti-tumor active ingredients. Nevertheless, research on the use of propolis extracts for the treatment of LGC is relatively limited. This research aimed to demonstrate the inhibitory effects of ethanol extracts of propolis on migration (Mig) and invasion (Inv ) of LGC cells, as well as the related signaling pathways. The effects of graded ethanol extraction of propolis on the proliferation (Pro), Inv, Mig, apoptosis (Apo), and related signaling pathways of Hep-2 cells were analyzed. Propolis was extracted using ethanol (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) for the graded extraction of crude propolis. The flavonoid content and yield of the extracts were determined. The effects of various concentrations of propolis flavonoids on the clearance of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, O2- radicals, and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) radicals were evaluated, as well as their effects on the Pro inhibition of normal human pancreatic ductal epithelial (hTERT-HPNE) cells. Hep-2 cells of LGC were cultured using media containing 0, 25, 50, and 100 μmol/L propolis flavonoids. The cell Pro activity, Inv, Mig, Apo, and expression of PI3K/Akt pathway-related proteins were evaluated using CCK-8 assay, Transwell chamber assay, acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) double staining method, and Western blotting, respectively. It was revealed that extraction with 50% ethanol solution yielded a higher content and yield of flavonoids, which were 51.20% and 7.42%, respectively. As the concentration of propolis flavonoids increased, the clearance rates of DPPH, O2-, and ABTS radicals, as well as the inhibition of hTERT-HPNE Pro, gradually increased. The maximum clearance rates were 84.1%, 26.6%, and 92.3%, respectively, while the maximum cell Pro inhibition rate was only 8.6%. Relative to the 0 μmol/L propolis flavonoid treatment group, the Hep-2 cells treated with 25, 50, and 100 μmol/L propolis flavonoids exhibited decreased cell Pro activity, reduced number of invasive and migratory cells, increased Apo rate, decreased PI3K and p-Akt proteins, and demonstrated a concentration-dependent effect (P &lt; 0.05). In summary, the extraction with 50% ethanol solution resulted in a higher yield of flavonoids. Propolis flavonoids demonstrated marked antioxidant activity and did not cause damage to normal hTERT-HPNE cells. They exhibited inhibitory effects on the Pro, Inv, and Mig of Hep-2 cells in LGC, and promoted cell Apo. These effects may be associated with PI3K/Akt signaling inhibition.

Eco-friendly biotransformation of penicillin G by free and immobilized marine halophilic Bacillus pseudomycoides AH1

BackgroundSeveral antibiotics are partially metabolized by patients after administration and end up in municipal sewage systems. The fate of biodegradation in aquatic environments and the role of biodegradation in the development of bacterial resistance are poorly understood. Thus, as a crucial step in an environmental risk assessment, the biodegradability of many therapeutically significant antibiotics was investigated.ResultsA marine halophilic bacteria that degrades penicillin G (PEN-G) was isolated and identified based on morphology, physio-biochemical characteristics, and 16S rDNA sequences as Bacillus pseudomycoides AH1 (accession no. MF037698). The effects of various concentrations of PEN-G and carbon and nitrogen sources on the biotransformation ability at 30°C and pH 7.0 were evaluated. Cells grown in medium supplemented with glucose as an additional carbon source and yeast extract as a nitrogen source exhibited maximal PEN-G biotransformation efficiency and rate (71.678% ±1.28 and 2.99 mg/h, respectively). The culture conditions for B. pseudomycoides AH1 cells were optimized using a Plackett–Burman design (PBD). Six key determinants (p < 0.05) significantly affected the process outcome, as deduced by regression analysis of the PBD data, and modified MSM broth achieved PEN-G biotransformation efficiency (100%) under aerobic shaking conditions at 35°C, irrespective of HPLC analysis. Additionally, the present investigation could strongly support the application of immobilization approaches for the removal of PEN-G-contaminated environmental sites.ConclusionTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first detailed study on the efficient biotransformation of PEN-G by an alginate-bacteria system as a simple, green, and inexpensive process, as well as a promising method.

Interaction between soy hull polysaccharide and mucin with sodium-/potassium-ion treatment: interfacial property

Abstract The interaction between soy hull polysaccharide and intestinal mucus is influenced by different ions. This study investigates the effects of various concentrations of Na+/K+ on the stability, interfacial activity, and viscoelasticity of the microwave-assisted ammonium oxalate extraction of soy hull polysaccharide (MASP) in simulated intestinal fluids (SIFs) in terms of particle size, zeta potential, surface hydrophobicity, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, shear rheology, and microstructure. Results showed that 1.5 % Na+/K+ causes MASP and mucin in SIFs to bind through physical adsorption; the average particle size of the MASP/SIF miscible system increases from 1,659 to 1,881 and 1,736 nm. When the ion strength is 0.5 %, MASP rapidly reduces the SIF interfacial tension. The addition of Na+/K+ causes a slight redshift in the protein amide I band and an increase in the α-helix content with respect to the decrease in the β-turn and β-sheet corner content. Furthermore, 0.5 % content of Na+ and K+ causes small MASP particles to adsorb onto the surface of mucin, while 1.5 % content of Na+ and K+ causes MASP particles to arrange above mucin after 12 h. These findings provide reference for a deeper understanding of the selection of macroelements (sodium and potassium) in the intake of polysaccharide.