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Nature Communications Nov 2023Breakdown of reproductive isolation facilitates flow of useful trait genes into crop plants from their wild relatives. Hybrid sterility, a major form of reproductive...
Breakdown of reproductive isolation facilitates flow of useful trait genes into crop plants from their wild relatives. Hybrid sterility, a major form of reproductive isolation exists between cultivated rice (Oryza sativa) and wild rice (O. meridionalis, Mer). Here, we report the cloning of qHMS1, a quantitative trait locus controlling hybrid male sterility between these two species. Like qHMS7, another locus we cloned previously, qHMS1 encodes a toxin-antidote system, but differs in the encoded proteins, their evolutionary origin, and action time point during pollen development. In plants heterozygous at qHMS1, ~ 50% of pollens carrying qHMS1-D (an allele from cultivated rice) are selectively killed. In plants heterozygous at both qHMS1 and qHMS7, ~ 75% pollens without co-presence of qHMS1-Mer and qHMS7-D are selectively killed, indicating that the antidotes function in a toxin-dependent manner. Our results indicate that different toxin-antidote systems provide stacked reproductive isolation for maintaining species identity and shed light on breakdown of hybrid male sterility.
Topics: Male; Humans; Hybridization, Genetic; Crosses, Genetic; Oryza; Antidotes; Chromosome Mapping; Reproductive Isolation; Infertility, Male; Plant Infertility
PubMed: 37980335
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43015-6 -
Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.) May 2024Determining treatment options for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after the PROSPECT trial data readout adds an important level to the decision-making...
Determining treatment options for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after the PROSPECT trial data readout adds an important level to the decision-making process.
Topics: Humans; Rectal Neoplasms; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols; Fluorouracil; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Leucovorin
PubMed: 38776515
DOI: 10.46883/2024.25921019 -
The Science of the Total Environment Jun 2024Here we addressed the capacity of distinct amendments to reduce arsenic (As), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) associated risks and improve the biogeochemical...
Here we addressed the capacity of distinct amendments to reduce arsenic (As), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) associated risks and improve the biogeochemical functions of post-mining soil. To this, we examined nanoparticles (NPs) and/or biochar effects, combined with phytostabilization using Lolium perenne L. Soil samples were taken in a former metal mine surroundings. Ryegrass seeds were sown in pots containing different combinations of NPs (zero-valent iron (nZVI) or hydroxyapatite (nH)) (0 and 2 %), and biochar (0, 3 and 5 %). Plants were grown for 45 days and the plant yield and element accumulation were evaluated, also soil properties (element distribution within the soil fractions, fertility, and enzymatic activities associated with microbiota functionality and nutrient cycling) were determined. Results showed biochar-treated soil had a higher pH, and much higher organic carbon (C) content than control soil and NP-treated soils, and it revealed increased labile C, total N, and available P concentrations. Soil treatment with NP-biochar combinations increased exchangeable non-acid cation concentrations and reduced exchangeable Na%, improved soil fertility, reduced sodicity risk, and increased ryegrass biomass. Enzymatic activities, particularly dehydrogenase and glucosidase, increased upon the addition of biochar, and this effect was fostered by NPs. Most treatments led to a significant reduction of metal(loid)s contents in biomass, mitigating contamination risks. The two different NPs had similar effects in many parameters, nH outperformed nZVI in terms of increased nutrients, C content, and enzymatic activities. On the basis of our results, combined biochar-NP amendments use, specially nH, emerges as a potential post-mining soil restoration strategy.
Topics: Charcoal; Soil Pollutants; Mining; Soil; Lolium; Nanoparticles; Biodegradation, Environmental; Metal Nanoparticles; Environmental Restoration and Remediation
PubMed: 38641107
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172451 -
International Journal of Molecular... Jul 2023In aquaculture, copper sulphate and trichlorfon are commonly used as disinfectants and insecticide, sometimes in combination. However, improper use can result in...
In aquaculture, copper sulphate and trichlorfon are commonly used as disinfectants and insecticide, sometimes in combination. However, improper use can result in biotoxicity and increased ecological risks. The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, lipid metabolism, nutrient storage, and immune function in fish. Selecting the liver as the main target organ for research helps to gain an in-depth understanding of various aspects of fish physiology, health, and adaptability. In the present study, zebrafish were exposed to Cu (0.5 mg/L) and Tri (0.5 mg/L) alone and in combination for 21 days. The results demonstrate that both Cu and Tri caused hepatocyte structure damage in zebrafish after 21 days of exposure, with the combination showing an even greater toxicity. Additionally, the antioxidant and immune enzyme activities in zebrafish liver were significantly induced on both day 7 and day 21. A transcriptome analysis revealed that Cu and Tri, alone and in combination, impacted various physiological activities differently, including metabolism, growth, and immunity. Overall, Cu and Tri, either individually or in combination, can induce tissue damage by generating oxidative stress in the body, and the longer the exposure duration, the stronger the toxic effects. Moreover, the combined exposure to Cu and Tri exhibits enhanced toxicity. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the combined use of heavy metal disinfectants and other drugs.
Topics: Animals; Copper Sulfate; Zebrafish; Trichlorfon; Copper; Liver; Oxidative Stress; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 37446380
DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311203 -
Scientific Reports Nov 2023The consumption of unrefined vegetable oil poses acute and chronic health issues, yet improper disposal of waste plantain peels is not environmentally sustainable. This...
The consumption of unrefined vegetable oil poses acute and chronic health issues, yet improper disposal of waste plantain peels is not environmentally sustainable. This research investigates the feasibility, mechanism and thermodynamics of waste plantain peels, and commercial bentonite clay for soybean oil refining. Experiment was carried out using masses (1-4 g) of commercial bentonite clay, and unripe plantain peel ash (UPPA) to degummed and neutralized free fatty acid (FFA) contents in crude soybean oil at varying temperatures (50-120 °C), and time (15-35 min) for treatment of soybean oil. FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and XRF techniques were applied to characterize the sample. The results established that at optimum 4.0 g dosage, the UPPA (97.73%) was more effective in the removal of FFA from oil at 50 °C and 20 min, while the clay (90%) was more effective in the removal of colour pigment from the vegetable oil 100 °C, and 25 min. The optimum efficiency of Clay-Ash-composite (70:30) in adsorbing pigment from soybean oil corresponds to 80%. The impact of changing viscosities, densities, and acid values on the performance of UPPA, clay, and clay-UPPA composite was investigated. Mechanistic studies confirmed the pseudo-second-order kinetics at 5 × 10 g/mg min and 1.87 × 10 g/mg min, with corresponding adsorption capacity of 30.40 mg/g and 4.91 mg/g, at R ≤ 0.9982. The UPPA-driven sorption of FFA occurred as a physisorption and exothermic process (- 620.60 kJ/mol), while colour pigment removal occurred by chemisorption and endothermic process (22.40 kJ/mol). The finding recommends UPPA and composite as economically feasible for refining soybean oil.
Topics: Bentonite; Clay; Soybean Oil; Plantago; Thermodynamics; Adsorption; Kinetics; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 37949915
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46842-1 -
Frontiers in Sociology 2023While many scholars have noted a rise in boredom coinciding with the emergence of modern capitalism, philosophers have long maintained that boredom is part of the... (Review)
Review
While many scholars have noted a rise in boredom coinciding with the emergence of modern capitalism, philosophers have long maintained that boredom is part of the horizon of human experience. Although specific social conditions may exacerbate it, boredom will never be completely eradicated. Nevertheless, its presence indicates that something is not right. Recently, cultural criminology has highlighted that boredom and monotony can trigger criminal behavior. If boredom is a contributing factor to crime, then I propose that creative, restorative justice processes can serve as an effective antidote. These practices aim to make things right by establishing obligations that restore the dignity and meaning of a victim's life.
PubMed: 38282749
DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1220470 -
Journal of Environmental Management Aug 2023The production of increasing quantities of by-products is a key challenge for modern society; their valorisation - turning them into valuable compounds with... (Review)
Review
The production of increasing quantities of by-products is a key challenge for modern society; their valorisation - turning them into valuable compounds with technological applications - is the way forward, in line with circular economy principles. In this review, the conversion of bones (by-products of the agro-food industry) into bone char is described. Bone char is obtained with a process of pyrolysis, which converts the organic carbon into an inorganic graphitic one. Differently from standard biochar of plant origin, however, bone char also contains calcium phosphates, the main component of bone (often hydroxyapatite). The combination of calcium phosphate and graphitic carbon makes bone char a unique material, with different possible uses. Here bone chars' applications in environmental remediation, sustainable agriculture, catalysis and electrochemistry are discussed; several aspects are considered, including the bones used to prepare bone char, the preparation conditions, how these affect the properties of the materials (i.e. porosity, surface area) and its functional properties. The advantages and limitations of bone chars in comparison to traditional biochar are discussed, highlighting the directions the research should take for bone chars' performances to improve. Moreover, an analysis on the sustainability of bone chars' preparation and use is also included.
Topics: Food; Refuse Disposal; Charcoal; Carbon; Graphite
PubMed: 37080100
DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117896 -
Toxins Jan 2024Institut Pasteur and have enjoyed a relationship lasting almost 120 years, starting from its foundation and the pioneering work of Louis Pasteur in the nascent fields... (Review)
Review
Institut Pasteur and have enjoyed a relationship lasting almost 120 years, starting from its foundation and the pioneering work of Louis Pasteur in the nascent fields of microbiology and vaccination, and blooming after 1986 following the molecular biology/genetic revolution. This contribution will give a historical overview of these two research eras, taking advantage of the archives conserved at Institut Pasteur. The first era mainly focused on the production, characterisation, surveillance and improvement of veterinary anthrax vaccines; the concepts and technologies with which to reach a deep understanding of this research field were not yet available. The second period saw a new era of research at Institut Pasteur, with the anthrax laboratory developing a multi-disciplinary approach, ranging from structural analysis, biochemistry, genetic expression, and regulation to bacterial-host cell interactions, pathogenicity, and therapy development; this led to the comprehensive unravelling of many facets of this toxi-infection. may exemplify some general points on how science is performed in a given society at a given time and how a scientific research domain evolves. A striking illustration can be seen in the additive layers of regulations that were implemented from the beginning of the 21st century and their impact on research. and anthrax are complex systems that raise many valuable questions regarding basic research. One may hope that research will be re-initiated under favourable circumstances later at Institut Pasteur.
Topics: Humans; Bacillus anthracis; Anthrax; Charcoal; Bacterial Toxins; Virulence; Antigens, Bacterial
PubMed: 38393144
DOI: 10.3390/toxins16020066 -
Environmental Geochemistry and Health Aug 2023The risks associated with the use of peloids in thermal centers, spas, or at home, must be tested to develop appropriate safety guidelines for peloids formulations and...
The risks associated with the use of peloids in thermal centers, spas, or at home, must be tested to develop appropriate safety guidelines for peloids formulations and the release of substances of high concern. Additionally, the beneficial effects of some elements on human health should be assessed to aid in interpreting the therapeutic action and effectiveness of pelotherapy on dermatological or osteomuscular disorders. Therefore, a methodology was developed to better understand the biogeochemical behavior of the elements in formulated peloids. Two peloids were formulated with the same clay and two different sulfurous mineral-medicinal waters for 90 days, with light stirring every 15 days. Bentonite clay, with a high content of smectite and Ca and Mg as the main exchangeable cations, and high heat capacity, was used. The selected mineral-medicinal waters were collected from two Portuguese thermal centers with recognized therapeutic efficacy for rheumatic, respiratory and dermatological pathologies. The peloids were used without drying and withdrawn directly from the maturation tank, and a mixture of bentonite and demineralized water was prepared as a reference sample. A stabilized, ready-to-use, artificial perspiration test was used to simulate the peloids' interaction with skin. Thirty-one elements extracted from the two prepared peloids were analyzed using ICP-MS. The data were analyzed and related to the mineralogical composition of the original clay and supernatant composition of the maturation tanks. The content of some potentially toxic elements and metals' bioaccessibility by perspiration showed very low solubility and undetectable amounts extracted from the studied samples. This analytical method provided reliable information on dermal exposure and the identification of some elements that may enter the systemic circulation, requiring implementation of surveillance and control measures.
Topics: Humans; Bentonite; Clay; Minerals; Sulfur; Mineral Waters
PubMed: 37341890
DOI: 10.1007/s10653-023-01639-z -
Biomedica : Revista Del Instituto... Mar 2024Paraquat®, or N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride, is a bipyridyl compound used as a non-selective herbicide and desiccant that can cause acute poisoning...
Paraquat®, or N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium dichloride, is a bipyridyl compound used as a non-selective herbicide and desiccant that can cause acute poisoning through all routes of exposure. There is no known antidote, and the available treatments are based on avoiding its absorption and timely removing it, in adults and children. We describe a case series of 14 pediatric patients from the department of Cauca, Colombia, with acute intoxication after oral intake of paraquat. Patients were referred to a medium-high complexity hospital in southwestern Colombia and treated according to an institutional protocol for acute paraquat poisoning. Acute paraquat poisoning after oral ingestion is associated with a high mortality rate, even with timely medical attention, as the compound has no known antidote and quickly reaches systemic concentrations for fulminant poisoning. Based on the available literature, our center has proposed a clinical protocol including early standard management, immunosuppressive and antioxidant treatments, and systemic removal techniques. This protocol suggests an adequate approach to acute paraquat poisoning in the pediatric population.
Topics: Humans; Paraquat; Child; Female; Male; Child, Preschool; Adolescent; Algorithms; Herbicides; Poisoning; Colombia; Acute Disease; Infant; Antioxidants; Clinical Protocols; Antidotes
PubMed: 38648344
DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.7024