Climate change and land use change pose a threat to the world’s biodiversity and have significant impacts on the geographic distribution and composition of many bird species,but little is known about how they affect ...Climate change and land use change pose a threat to the world’s biodiversity and have significant impacts on the geographic distribution and composition of many bird species,but little is known about how they affect threatened large-sized waterbird species that rely on agricultural landscapes.To address this gap,we investigated how climate and land use changes influence the distribution and nesting habitats of the globally vulnerable Lesser Adjutant(Leptoptilos javanicus) in Nepal.Between 2012 and 2023,we collected distribution data from 24 districts and nesting site information from 18 districts.In a nation-wide breeding survey conducted in 2020,we documented a total of 581 fledglings from 346 nests in 109 colonies.The ensemble model predicted a current potential distribution of 15%(21,637 km2) and a potential nesting habitat of 13%(19,651 km2) for the species in Nepal.The highest predicted current suitable distribution and nesting habitat was in Madhesh Province,while none was predicted in Karnali Province.The majority of this predicted distributional and nesting habitat falls on agricultural landscapes(>70%).Our model showed a likely range expansion of up to 15%(21,573 km2) for the distribution and up to 12%(17,482 km2) for the nesting habitat under SSP5-8.5 scenarios for the 2070s.The range expansion is expected to occur mainly within the current distribution and breeding range(Tarai and some regions of Siwalk),particularly in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces,and extend to the northern portions(Siwalik and Mid-hill regions) in other provinces.However,the current Protected Areas and Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas are inadequate for providing optimal habitats for the species.Although the model suggests range expansion,the use of such novel habitats is primarily contingent on the availability and protection of large-sized trees(particularly Bombax ceiba,observed in 65% of colonies) in agricultural regions where nesting occurs.Therefore,our research suggests that agricultural landscapes should be prio展开更多
Persistent gastritis induced by Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)is the strongest known risk factor for gastric cancer(GC).H.pylori is prevalent in about 50%world's population,while it causes cancer in less than 2%of ...Persistent gastritis induced by Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)is the strongest known risk factor for gastric cancer(GC).H.pylori is prevalent in about 50%world's population,while it causes cancer in less than 2%of exposed individuals.1 Our studies found that H.pylori infection can induce oncogenic properties in AGS cells by deregulating multiple factors associated with the cell cycle,apoptosis,and other important events associated with cancer progression.展开更多
Although many previous studies have suggested that estrogen functions as a cytoprotective agent under oxidative stress conditions, the underlying mechanism by which this effect is exerted remains to be elucidated. Thi...Although many previous studies have suggested that estrogen functions as a cytoprotective agent under oxidative stress conditions, the underlying mechanism by which this effect is exerted remains to be elucidated. This study assessed the effects of estradiol-17β （E2） （10^-8s M） on hypoxia-induced cell injury and its related signaling in primary cultured chicken hepatocytes. Hypoxic conditions were found to augment the level of DNA damage and to reduce cell viability and the level of [^3H]-thymidine incorporation, and these phenomena were prevented through treatment with E2. Hypoxia also increased caspase-3 expression, but showed no evidence of an influence on the expression of Bcl-2. However, E2 induced an increase in the level of Bcl-2 expression under hypoxic conditions and reduced the level of caspase-3 expression. The effects of E2 on Bcl-2 and caspase expression were blocked by ICI 182780 （E2 receptor （ER） antagonist, 10＂7 M）. In addition, hypoxia resulted in an increase in the intracellular reactive oxygen species （ROS） generated. These effects were blocked by E2, but not by E2-BSA and ICI 182780. Hypoxia also activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase （MAPK）, c-JUN N-terminal kinase/stress-activated protein kinase （JNK/SAPK） and nuclear factor-kB （NF-kB）. These effects were blocked by E2, but not by ICI 182780. The inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK/SAPK blocked NF-kB activation. In conclusion, E2 was found to protect against hypoxia-induced cell injury in chicken hepatocytes through ER-mediated upregulation of Bcl-2 expression and through reducing the activity of ROS-dependent p38 MAPK, JNK/ SAPK and NF-kB.展开更多
Reductive iodonio-Claisen rearrangement （RICR） involving 23-iodanes and allyl or substituted-allyl silanes in fluoroalcohols, such as 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroi- sopropanol （HFIP） and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol （TFE）, ...Reductive iodonio-Claisen rearrangement （RICR） involving 23-iodanes and allyl or substituted-allyl silanes in fluoroalcohols, such as 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroi- sopropanol （HFIP） and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol （TFE）, was studied for the synthesis of complex ortho-allyl or substituted-allyl iodoarenes. In comparison to the pre- viously reported condition involving boron trifluoride diethyl etherate, the RICR mediated by fluoroalcohols was found to proceed more effectively. The resulting complex ortho-allyl iodoarenes are useful synthetic intermediates and can be readily converted to various heterocyclic compounds.展开更多
Herpesviruses are smart pathogens that can infect and have lifelong persistence inside the host.Many human herpes-viruses have been shown to affect human health in immu-nologically challenged conditions.Mostly the her...Herpesviruses are smart pathogens that can infect and have lifelong persistence inside the host.Many human herpes-viruses have been shown to affect human health in immu-nologically challenged conditions.Mostly the herpesviruses involved in such cases and widely researched are herpes simplex virus(HSV),human cytomegalovirus(HCMV),Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus(KSHV),and Epstein-Barr virus(EBV).All these herpesviruses share similar virion struc-tures and life cycles.展开更多
More than 60% human infectious diseases have zoonotic origin. Cross species transmission of pathogens is a continuous, dynamic process that occurs throughout the world, giving rise to epizootic (temporary, limited inf...More than 60% human infectious diseases have zoonotic origin. Cross species transmission of pathogens is a continuous, dynamic process that occurs throughout the world, giving rise to epizootic (temporary, limited infection), endemic (on-going infection limited to a defined geographic region) and pandemic viral infections (infection spreading to every part of the world) like the current COVID-19 pandemic, which depends on the existing conditions on the ground. In Nov 2021, sudden mortality of numerous migrating demoiselle cranes was reported from their resting site near Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The symptomatic cranes became gradually weak and were unable to fly. They eventually fell dead which caused concern locally, given the current prevailing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic situation the world over. By the end of Dec 2021, the number of cranes with mortality and morbidity reduced, making it a temporary “epizootic infection”. Molecular diagnosis carried out at a specialized laboratory identified the etiological agent to be the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 (HPAIV), which has been responsible for morbidity of avian species from different parts of the world. There was no report of spreading the H5N1 AIV infection from the infected migratory cranes to nearby chicken farms or pig farms for now. In the absence of vaccines against the highly pathogenic H5N1 AIVs, and the inherent ability of influenza viruses, both avian AIV and human IAVs to constantly mutate its envelope gene or the surface antigens, resulting from the error-prone nature of the viral RNA Polymerase enzyme are the roadblocks for development of a universal, broad-spectrum influenza vaccine. Even when such a universal vaccine against H5N1 is available, vaccinating a large number of wild migratory cranes would be difficult. However, it is possible and indeed necessary to vaccinate chickens in poultry farms and pigs in farms that raise pigs for human consumption.展开更多
Increased knowledge of the elastic and geomechnical properties of rocks is important for numerous engineering and geoscience applications(e.g. petroleum geoscience, underground waste repositories,geothermal energy, ea...Increased knowledge of the elastic and geomechnical properties of rocks is important for numerous engineering and geoscience applications(e.g. petroleum geoscience, underground waste repositories,geothermal energy, earthquake studies, and hydrocarbon exploration). To assess the effect of pressure and temperature on seismic velocities and their anisotropy, laboratory experiments were conducted on metamorphic rocks. P-(Vp) and S-wave(Vs) velocities were determined on cubic samples of granulites and eclogites with an edge length of 43 mm in a triaxial multianvil apparatus using the ultrasonic pulse emission technique in dependence of changes in pressure and temperature. At successive isotropic pressure states up to 600 MPa and temperatures up to 600 ℃, measurements were performed related to the sample coordinates given by the three principal fabric directions(x, y, z) representing the foliation(xy-plane), the normal to the foliation(z-direction), and the lineation direction(x-direction). Progressive volumetric strain was logged by the discrete piston displacements. Cumulative errors in Vpand Vsare estimated to be <1%. Microcrack closure significantly contributes to the increase in seismic velocities and decrease in anisotropies for pressures up to 200-250 MPa. Characteristic P-wave anisotropies of about 10% are obtained for eclogite and 3-4% in a strongly retrogressed eclogite as well as granulites. The wave velocities were used to calculate the geomechanical properties(e.g. density, Poisson’s ratio, volumetric strain, and elastic moduli) at different pressure and temperature conditions. These results contribute to the reliable estimate of geomechanical properties of rocks.展开更多
Triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)cell line MDA-MB-231 is known for Warburg metabolism and defects in mitochondria.On the other hand,dipeptidyl peptidase-IV(DPP-IV)inhibitors such as sitagliptin and vildagliptin and ...Triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)cell line MDA-MB-231 is known for Warburg metabolism and defects in mitochondria.On the other hand,dipeptidyl peptidase-IV(DPP-IV)inhibitors such as sitagliptin and vildagliptin and GLP-1 agonist exendin-4 are known to improve mitochondrial functions as well as biogenesis,but no study has evaluated the influence of these drugs on mitochondrial biogenesis on metastatic breast cancer cell line.We have recently reported anticancer effects of 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide riboside on MDA-MB-231 cells via activation of AMP-dependent kinase(AMPK),which activates the downstream transcription factors PGC-1α,PGC-1β,or FOXO1 for mitochondrial biogenesis;above-mentioned incretin-based therapies are also known to activate AMPK.This study evaluated the effects of sitagliptin,vildagliptin,and exendin-4 on MDA-MB-231 cells and the underlying changes in mitochondrial biogenesis,were examined.Treatment with sitagliptin(100μM),vildagliptin(100μM),and exendin-4(10 nM)for 72 h to MDA-MB-231 cells led to a decrease in viability indicated by MTT assay,cell migration by scratch,and transwell migration assays,accompanied with marginal reduction in cell numbers along with the apoptotic appearance,the rate of apoptosis,and decreased lactate content in conditioned medium.These changes in the cancer phenotype were accompanied by an increase in the mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA ratio,increased MitoTracker green and red staining,and increased expression of transcription factors PGC-1α,NRF-1,NRF-2,TFAM,and HO-1.Pre-treatment of cells with these incretin-based drugs followed by 48 h treatment with 1μM doxorubicin increased doxorubicin sensitivity as observed by a decrease in viability by MTT assay.Thus,sitagliptin,vildagliptin,and exendin-4 exert their beneficial effects on TNBC cells via an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis that helps to switch Warburg metabolism into anti-Warburg effect.Therapeutic response was in the order of:sitagliptin>vildagliptin>exendin-4.展开更多
At Kuwana illegal dumping site in Japan, where hazardous waste was illegally dumped, groundwater was severely contaminated by Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Groundwater was already remedied by conducting Pump-and-...At Kuwana illegal dumping site in Japan, where hazardous waste was illegally dumped, groundwater was severely contaminated by Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Groundwater was already remedied by conducting Pump-and-Treat (P&T) after containment of all the waste by vertical slurry walls from 2002 to 2007. However, 1,4-dioxane was detected in both waste and groundwater outside of slurry walls after it was newly added into Japan environmental standards in late 2009, which suggested that the walls did not contain 1,4-dioxane completely. Our previous study developed a model to predict the 1,4-dioxane distribution in groundwater after the previous remediation at the site. In this study, numerical simulation was applied for remediation planning at the site based on the concept of Verified Follow Up (VF-UP) that had been proposed as a new approach to complete remediation effectively with consideration of future risks. The amount of waste to be removed and pumping plans were discussed by numerical simulation to achieve the remedial objective in which 1,4-dioxane in groundwater outside of walls is remedied within 10 years and 1,4-dioxane spreading throughout the walls is prevented in the case where a portion of waste is remained. Firstly, the amount of waste to be removed considering pumping plans for P&T was determined by scenario analysis. As a result, at least two-third of waste should be removed by combining with P&T. However, if the waste is remained, future risks of 1,4-dioxane spreading through the slurry walls may occur. Our simulation suggested that groundwater within the remaining waste must be pumped up at least 20 m3/d for containment of 1,4-dioxane within the remaining waste. In conclusion, our numerical simulation determined the amount of waste to be removed and the pumping plans for P&T to achieve the remedial objective effectively considering future risks based on the concept of VF-UP.展开更多
Atherosclerosis is becoming an alarming disease for the existence of healthy human beings in the 21 st century.There are a growing number of agents, either modernized life style generated, competitive work culture rel...Atherosclerosis is becoming an alarming disease for the existence of healthy human beings in the 21 st century.There are a growing number of agents, either modernized life style generated, competitive work culture related or infection with some bacterial or viral agents,documented every year. These infectious agents do not have proper diagnostics or detection availability in many poor and developing countries. Hence, as active medical researchers, we summarize some aspects of infectious agents and their related mechanisms in this review which may be beneficial for new beginners in this field and update awareness in the field of cardiovascular biology.展开更多
In malaria-endemic regions,people often get exposed to various pathogens simultaneously,generating coinfection scenarios.In such scenarios,overlapping symptoms pose serious diagnostic challenges.The delayed diagnosis ...In malaria-endemic regions,people often get exposed to various pathogens simultaneously,generating coinfection scenarios.In such scenarios,overlapping symptoms pose serious diagnostic challenges.The delayed diagnosis may lead to an increase in disease severity and catastrophic events.Recent coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)has affected various areas globally,including malaria-endemic regions.The Plasmodium and SARS-CoV-2 co-infection and its effect on health are yet unexplored.We present a case report of a previously healthy,middle-aged individual from the malaria-endemic area who suffered SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium falciparum co-infection.The patient developed severe disease indications in a short time period.The patient showed neurological symptoms,altered hematological as well as liver-test parameters,and subsequent death in a narrow time span.We hereby discuss the various aspects of this case regarding treatment and hematological parameters.Further,we have put forward perspectives related to the mechanism behind severity and neurological symptoms in this fatal parasite-virus co-infection case.In malaria-endemic regions,due to overlapping symptoms,suspected COVID-19 patients should also be monitored for diagnosis of malaria without any delay.The SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium co-infection could increase the disease severity in a short time span.In treatment,dexamethasone may not help in severe cases having malaria as well as COVID-19 positive status and needs further exploration.展开更多
Even though vaccines against rabies are available,rabies still remains a burden killing a significant number of humans as well as domestic and wild animals in many parts of the world,including Nepal.In this study,we d...Even though vaccines against rabies are available,rabies still remains a burden killing a significant number of humans as well as domestic and wild animals in many parts of the world,including Nepal.In this study,we develop a mathematical model to describe transmission dynamics of rabies in Nepal.In particular,an indirect interspecies transmission from jackals to humans through dogs,which is relevant to the context of Nepal,is one of the novel features of our model.Our model utilizes annual dog-bite data collected from Nepal for a decade long period,allowing us to reasonably estimate parameters related to rabies transmission in Nepal.Using our model,we calculated the basic reproduction number(R_(0)=1:16)as well as intraspecies basic reproduction numbers of dogs(R_(0)^(D)=1:14)and jackals(R_(0)^(J)=0:07)for Nepal,and identified that the dog-related parameters are primary contributors to R0.Our results show that,along with dogs,jackals may also play an important role,albeit lesser extent,in the persistence of rabies in Nepal.Our model also suggests that control strategies may help reduce the prevalence significantly but the jackal vaccination may not be as effective as dog-related preventive strategies.To get deeper insight into the role of intraspecies and interspecies transmission between dog and jackal populations in the persistence of rabies,we also extended our model analysis into a wider parameter range.Interestingly,for some feasible parameters,even though rabies is theoretically controlled in each dog and jackal populations(R_(0)^(D)<1,R_(0)^(J)<1)if isolated,the rabies epidemic may still occur(R_(0)>1)due to interspecies transmission.These results may be useful to design effective prevention and control strategies for mitigating rabies burden in Nepal and other parts of the world.展开更多
Our study producted Polydopamine modified gold nanoflowers with controlled morphology for anti-tumor photothermal therapy.The branch structure containsabundant(Au NFs).By adjusting the reduction rate,the dosage of red...Our study producted Polydopamine modified gold nanoflowers with controlled morphology for anti-tumor photothermal therapy.The branch structure containsabundant(Au NFs).By adjusting the reduction rate,the dosage of reducing agent(sodium borohydride)and the reduction temperature,we can adjust tthe morphology and particle size of Au NFs.We found that the lower reaction temperature is,the more abundant the surface branching structure of gold nanoflowers is,by adjusting the reaction temperature.and the largest specific surface area of golden nanopowder was found at 0℃.The results of TEM indicated that with the increase of sodium borohydride,the diameter of gold nano flowers gold nanoflowers decreased and was in the range of 60~100nm,and it has good EPR effect After that,we modify poly(dopamine)(PDA)biomimetic layer on the surface of golden nanoparticles to obtain Au NFS@PDA.Poly(dopamine)has the ability,of photothermal conversion,which can enhance the plasma resonance ability and biocompatibility of gold nanoflowers in the near infrared region.We can control the thickness of polydopamine layer on the surface of gold nanoflowers between 7~15nm by adjusting dopamine DA concentrationgold nanoflowers.Au NFS@PDA was characterized by its morphology and physical properties.We detect(UV-Vis)spectra in the near infrared region.And it showed obvious absorption peaks in the near infrared region of 575~650nm.Under the 808nm irradiation laser,the photothermal conversion of gold nanoflowers and polydopamine can be rapidly increased to 57°C.Fourier Transform Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy(FTIR)and X-ray Diffraction(XRD)analysis showed that polydopamine was modified successfully,Au NFS@PDA and Au NFs had no obvious difference in crystal form.The cell viability test showed that the bionic Au NFS@PDA had good biocompatibility and showed good antitumor activity against HeLa cells under NIR irradiation.The cell viability was only 12%.Therefore,we can use Au NFS@PDA with good biocompatibility as a promising photothermal conversion ag展开更多
基金This work has been supported by CAS-SEABRI(Y4ZK111B01)In-ternational Science,and Technology Commissioner of Yunnan Province(202203AK140027)+2 种基金Yunnan Province Science and Technology Depart-ment(202203AP140007)Rufford Small Grants Foundation(31372-2)Tribhuvan University National Priority Area Research Grant(TU-NPAR-2078/79-ERG-04)。
文摘Climate change and land use change pose a threat to the world’s biodiversity and have significant impacts on the geographic distribution and composition of many bird species,but little is known about how they affect threatened large-sized waterbird species that rely on agricultural landscapes.To address this gap,we investigated how climate and land use changes influence the distribution and nesting habitats of the globally vulnerable Lesser Adjutant(Leptoptilos javanicus) in Nepal.Between 2012 and 2023,we collected distribution data from 24 districts and nesting site information from 18 districts.In a nation-wide breeding survey conducted in 2020,we documented a total of 581 fledglings from 346 nests in 109 colonies.The ensemble model predicted a current potential distribution of 15%(21,637 km2) and a potential nesting habitat of 13%(19,651 km2) for the species in Nepal.The highest predicted current suitable distribution and nesting habitat was in Madhesh Province,while none was predicted in Karnali Province.The majority of this predicted distributional and nesting habitat falls on agricultural landscapes(>70%).Our model showed a likely range expansion of up to 15%(21,573 km2) for the distribution and up to 12%(17,482 km2) for the nesting habitat under SSP5-8.5 scenarios for the 2070s.The range expansion is expected to occur mainly within the current distribution and breeding range(Tarai and some regions of Siwalk),particularly in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces,and extend to the northern portions(Siwalik and Mid-hill regions) in other provinces.However,the current Protected Areas and Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas are inadequate for providing optimal habitats for the species.Although the model suggests range expansion,the use of such novel habitats is primarily contingent on the availability and protection of large-sized trees(particularly Bombax ceiba,observed in 65% of colonies) in agricultural regions where nesting occurs.Therefore,our research suggests that agricultural landscapes should be prio
文摘Persistent gastritis induced by Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori)is the strongest known risk factor for gastric cancer(GC).H.pylori is prevalent in about 50%world's population,while it causes cancer in less than 2%of exposed individuals.1 Our studies found that H.pylori infection can induce oncogenic properties in AGS cells by deregulating multiple factors associated with the cell cycle,apoptosis,and other important events associated with cancer progression.
文摘Although many previous studies have suggested that estrogen functions as a cytoprotective agent under oxidative stress conditions, the underlying mechanism by which this effect is exerted remains to be elucidated. This study assessed the effects of estradiol-17β （E2） （10^-8s M） on hypoxia-induced cell injury and its related signaling in primary cultured chicken hepatocytes. Hypoxic conditions were found to augment the level of DNA damage and to reduce cell viability and the level of [^3H]-thymidine incorporation, and these phenomena were prevented through treatment with E2. Hypoxia also increased caspase-3 expression, but showed no evidence of an influence on the expression of Bcl-2. However, E2 induced an increase in the level of Bcl-2 expression under hypoxic conditions and reduced the level of caspase-3 expression. The effects of E2 on Bcl-2 and caspase expression were blocked by ICI 182780 （E2 receptor （ER） antagonist, 10＂7 M）. In addition, hypoxia resulted in an increase in the intracellular reactive oxygen species （ROS） generated. These effects were blocked by E2, but not by E2-BSA and ICI 182780. Hypoxia also activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase （MAPK）, c-JUN N-terminal kinase/stress-activated protein kinase （JNK/SAPK） and nuclear factor-kB （NF-kB）. These effects were blocked by E2, but not by ICI 182780. The inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK/SAPK blocked NF-kB activation. In conclusion, E2 was found to protect against hypoxia-induced cell injury in chicken hepatocytes through ER-mediated upregulation of Bcl-2 expression and through reducing the activity of ROS-dependent p38 MAPK, JNK/ SAPK and NF-kB.
文摘Reductive iodonio-Claisen rearrangement （RICR） involving 23-iodanes and allyl or substituted-allyl silanes in fluoroalcohols, such as 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroi- sopropanol （HFIP） and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol （TFE）, was studied for the synthesis of complex ortho-allyl or substituted-allyl iodoarenes. In comparison to the pre- viously reported condition involving boron trifluoride diethyl etherate, the RICR mediated by fluoroalcohols was found to proceed more effectively. The resulting complex ortho-allyl iodoarenes are useful synthetic intermediates and can be readily converted to various heterocyclic compounds.
基金supported by the Indo-German Science&Technology Centre(IGSTC)Industrial Fellowship program(No.IGSTC/SING-2022/40/2021e22/332).
文摘Herpesviruses are smart pathogens that can infect and have lifelong persistence inside the host.Many human herpes-viruses have been shown to affect human health in immu-nologically challenged conditions.Mostly the herpesviruses involved in such cases and widely researched are herpes simplex virus(HSV),human cytomegalovirus(HCMV),Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus(KSHV),and Epstein-Barr virus(EBV).All these herpesviruses share similar virion struc-tures and life cycles.
文摘More than 60% human infectious diseases have zoonotic origin. Cross species transmission of pathogens is a continuous, dynamic process that occurs throughout the world, giving rise to epizootic (temporary, limited infection), endemic (on-going infection limited to a defined geographic region) and pandemic viral infections (infection spreading to every part of the world) like the current COVID-19 pandemic, which depends on the existing conditions on the ground. In Nov 2021, sudden mortality of numerous migrating demoiselle cranes was reported from their resting site near Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The symptomatic cranes became gradually weak and were unable to fly. They eventually fell dead which caused concern locally, given the current prevailing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic situation the world over. By the end of Dec 2021, the number of cranes with mortality and morbidity reduced, making it a temporary “epizootic infection”. Molecular diagnosis carried out at a specialized laboratory identified the etiological agent to be the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 (HPAIV), which has been responsible for morbidity of avian species from different parts of the world. There was no report of spreading the H5N1 AIV infection from the infected migratory cranes to nearby chicken farms or pig farms for now. In the absence of vaccines against the highly pathogenic H5N1 AIVs, and the inherent ability of influenza viruses, both avian AIV and human IAVs to constantly mutate its envelope gene or the surface antigens, resulting from the error-prone nature of the viral RNA Polymerase enzyme are the roadblocks for development of a universal, broad-spectrum influenza vaccine. Even when such a universal vaccine against H5N1 is available, vaccinating a large number of wild migratory cranes would be difficult. However, it is possible and indeed necessary to vaccinate chickens in poultry farms and pigs in farms that raise pigs for human consumption.
文摘Increased knowledge of the elastic and geomechnical properties of rocks is important for numerous engineering and geoscience applications(e.g. petroleum geoscience, underground waste repositories,geothermal energy, earthquake studies, and hydrocarbon exploration). To assess the effect of pressure and temperature on seismic velocities and their anisotropy, laboratory experiments were conducted on metamorphic rocks. P-(Vp) and S-wave(Vs) velocities were determined on cubic samples of granulites and eclogites with an edge length of 43 mm in a triaxial multianvil apparatus using the ultrasonic pulse emission technique in dependence of changes in pressure and temperature. At successive isotropic pressure states up to 600 MPa and temperatures up to 600 ℃, measurements were performed related to the sample coordinates given by the three principal fabric directions(x, y, z) representing the foliation(xy-plane), the normal to the foliation(z-direction), and the lineation direction(x-direction). Progressive volumetric strain was logged by the discrete piston displacements. Cumulative errors in Vpand Vsare estimated to be <1%. Microcrack closure significantly contributes to the increase in seismic velocities and decrease in anisotropies for pressures up to 200-250 MPa. Characteristic P-wave anisotropies of about 10% are obtained for eclogite and 3-4% in a strongly retrogressed eclogite as well as granulites. The wave velocities were used to calculate the geomechanical properties(e.g. density, Poisson’s ratio, volumetric strain, and elastic moduli) at different pressure and temperature conditions. These results contribute to the reliable estimate of geomechanical properties of rocks.
基金The work was supported by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Junior Research Fellowship to Ms.Pooja Jaiswal(File No.09/301(0137)/2019-EMR-I)Ms.Versha Tripathi(09/301(0138)/2019-EMR-I)+1 种基金We also acknowledge the India-Belarus joint project(DST/INT/BLR/P-24/2019)funded by the Department of Science and TechnologyNew Delhi and the research grant from Devi Ahilya University,Indore(Dev/Seedmoney2.0/2020-21/655)sanctioned to Dr.Hamendra Singh Parmar.
文摘Triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)cell line MDA-MB-231 is known for Warburg metabolism and defects in mitochondria.On the other hand,dipeptidyl peptidase-IV(DPP-IV)inhibitors such as sitagliptin and vildagliptin and GLP-1 agonist exendin-4 are known to improve mitochondrial functions as well as biogenesis,but no study has evaluated the influence of these drugs on mitochondrial biogenesis on metastatic breast cancer cell line.We have recently reported anticancer effects of 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide riboside on MDA-MB-231 cells via activation of AMP-dependent kinase(AMPK),which activates the downstream transcription factors PGC-1α,PGC-1β,or FOXO1 for mitochondrial biogenesis;above-mentioned incretin-based therapies are also known to activate AMPK.This study evaluated the effects of sitagliptin,vildagliptin,and exendin-4 on MDA-MB-231 cells and the underlying changes in mitochondrial biogenesis,were examined.Treatment with sitagliptin(100μM),vildagliptin(100μM),and exendin-4(10 nM)for 72 h to MDA-MB-231 cells led to a decrease in viability indicated by MTT assay,cell migration by scratch,and transwell migration assays,accompanied with marginal reduction in cell numbers along with the apoptotic appearance,the rate of apoptosis,and decreased lactate content in conditioned medium.These changes in the cancer phenotype were accompanied by an increase in the mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA ratio,increased MitoTracker green and red staining,and increased expression of transcription factors PGC-1α,NRF-1,NRF-2,TFAM,and HO-1.Pre-treatment of cells with these incretin-based drugs followed by 48 h treatment with 1μM doxorubicin increased doxorubicin sensitivity as observed by a decrease in viability by MTT assay.Thus,sitagliptin,vildagliptin,and exendin-4 exert their beneficial effects on TNBC cells via an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis that helps to switch Warburg metabolism into anti-Warburg effect.Therapeutic response was in the order of:sitagliptin>vildagliptin>exendin-4.
文摘At Kuwana illegal dumping site in Japan, where hazardous waste was illegally dumped, groundwater was severely contaminated by Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Groundwater was already remedied by conducting Pump-and-Treat (P&T) after containment of all the waste by vertical slurry walls from 2002 to 2007. However, 1,4-dioxane was detected in both waste and groundwater outside of slurry walls after it was newly added into Japan environmental standards in late 2009, which suggested that the walls did not contain 1,4-dioxane completely. Our previous study developed a model to predict the 1,4-dioxane distribution in groundwater after the previous remediation at the site. In this study, numerical simulation was applied for remediation planning at the site based on the concept of Verified Follow Up (VF-UP) that had been proposed as a new approach to complete remediation effectively with consideration of future risks. The amount of waste to be removed and pumping plans were discussed by numerical simulation to achieve the remedial objective in which 1,4-dioxane in groundwater outside of walls is remedied within 10 years and 1,4-dioxane spreading throughout the walls is prevented in the case where a portion of waste is remained. Firstly, the amount of waste to be removed considering pumping plans for P&T was determined by scenario analysis. As a result, at least two-third of waste should be removed by combining with P&T. However, if the waste is remained, future risks of 1,4-dioxane spreading through the slurry walls may occur. Our simulation suggested that groundwater within the remaining waste must be pumped up at least 20 m3/d for containment of 1,4-dioxane within the remaining waste. In conclusion, our numerical simulation determined the amount of waste to be removed and the pumping plans for P&T to achieve the remedial objective effectively considering future risks based on the concept of VF-UP.
文摘Atherosclerosis is becoming an alarming disease for the existence of healthy human beings in the 21 st century.There are a growing number of agents, either modernized life style generated, competitive work culture related or infection with some bacterial or viral agents,documented every year. These infectious agents do not have proper diagnostics or detection availability in many poor and developing countries. Hence, as active medical researchers, we summarize some aspects of infectious agents and their related mechanisms in this review which may be beneficial for new beginners in this field and update awareness in the field of cardiovascular biology.
基金supported by Council for Scientific and Industrial Research[Grant no 37(1693)/17/EMR-II]Department of Science and Technology as Ramanujan fellowship[Grant no.SB/S2/RJN-132/20/5].
文摘In malaria-endemic regions,people often get exposed to various pathogens simultaneously,generating coinfection scenarios.In such scenarios,overlapping symptoms pose serious diagnostic challenges.The delayed diagnosis may lead to an increase in disease severity and catastrophic events.Recent coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)has affected various areas globally,including malaria-endemic regions.The Plasmodium and SARS-CoV-2 co-infection and its effect on health are yet unexplored.We present a case report of a previously healthy,middle-aged individual from the malaria-endemic area who suffered SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium falciparum co-infection.The patient developed severe disease indications in a short time period.The patient showed neurological symptoms,altered hematological as well as liver-test parameters,and subsequent death in a narrow time span.We hereby discuss the various aspects of this case regarding treatment and hematological parameters.Further,we have put forward perspectives related to the mechanism behind severity and neurological symptoms in this fatal parasite-virus co-infection case.In malaria-endemic regions,due to overlapping symptoms,suspected COVID-19 patients should also be monitored for diagnosis of malaria without any delay.The SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium co-infection could increase the disease severity in a short time span.In treatment,dexamethasone may not help in severe cases having malaria as well as COVID-19 positive status and needs further exploration.
基金The work of NKV was partially supported by NSF grants DMS-1951793,DMS-1616299,DMS-1836647,and DEB-2030479 from the National Science Foundation of USA,and the UGP award and the start-up fund from San Diego State University.
文摘Even though vaccines against rabies are available,rabies still remains a burden killing a significant number of humans as well as domestic and wild animals in many parts of the world,including Nepal.In this study,we develop a mathematical model to describe transmission dynamics of rabies in Nepal.In particular,an indirect interspecies transmission from jackals to humans through dogs,which is relevant to the context of Nepal,is one of the novel features of our model.Our model utilizes annual dog-bite data collected from Nepal for a decade long period,allowing us to reasonably estimate parameters related to rabies transmission in Nepal.Using our model,we calculated the basic reproduction number(R_(0)=1:16)as well as intraspecies basic reproduction numbers of dogs(R_(0)^(D)=1:14)and jackals(R_(0)^(J)=0:07)for Nepal,and identified that the dog-related parameters are primary contributors to R0.Our results show that,along with dogs,jackals may also play an important role,albeit lesser extent,in the persistence of rabies in Nepal.Our model also suggests that control strategies may help reduce the prevalence significantly but the jackal vaccination may not be as effective as dog-related preventive strategies.To get deeper insight into the role of intraspecies and interspecies transmission between dog and jackal populations in the persistence of rabies,we also extended our model analysis into a wider parameter range.Interestingly,for some feasible parameters,even though rabies is theoretically controlled in each dog and jackal populations(R_(0)^(D)<1,R_(0)^(J)<1)if isolated,the rabies epidemic may still occur(R_(0)>1)due to interspecies transmission.These results may be useful to design effective prevention and control strategies for mitigating rabies burden in Nepal and other parts of the world.
文摘Our study producted Polydopamine modified gold nanoflowers with controlled morphology for anti-tumor photothermal therapy.The branch structure containsabundant(Au NFs).By adjusting the reduction rate,the dosage of reducing agent(sodium borohydride)and the reduction temperature,we can adjust tthe morphology and particle size of Au NFs.We found that the lower reaction temperature is,the more abundant the surface branching structure of gold nanoflowers is,by adjusting the reaction temperature.and the largest specific surface area of golden nanopowder was found at 0℃.The results of TEM indicated that with the increase of sodium borohydride,the diameter of gold nano flowers gold nanoflowers decreased and was in the range of 60~100nm,and it has good EPR effect After that,we modify poly(dopamine)(PDA)biomimetic layer on the surface of golden nanoparticles to obtain Au NFS@PDA.Poly(dopamine)has the ability,of photothermal conversion,which can enhance the plasma resonance ability and biocompatibility of gold nanoflowers in the near infrared region.We can control the thickness of polydopamine layer on the surface of gold nanoflowers between 7~15nm by adjusting dopamine DA concentrationgold nanoflowers.Au NFS@PDA was characterized by its morphology and physical properties.We detect(UV-Vis)spectra in the near infrared region.And it showed obvious absorption peaks in the near infrared region of 575~650nm.Under the 808nm irradiation laser,the photothermal conversion of gold nanoflowers and polydopamine can be rapidly increased to 57°C.Fourier Transform Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy(FTIR)and X-ray Diffraction(XRD)analysis showed that polydopamine was modified successfully,Au NFS@PDA and Au NFs had no obvious difference in crystal form.The cell viability test showed that the bionic Au NFS@PDA had good biocompatibility and showed good antitumor activity against HeLa cells under NIR irradiation.The cell viability was only 12%.Therefore,we can use Au NFS@PDA with good biocompatibility as a promising photothermal conversion ag
