Recent Progress in the Research on RNA-Binding Proteins in Bone Development and Diseases.

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which regulate gene expression through post-transcriptional modifications of RNAs, play a role in diverse biological processes that include bone cell development and bone tissue formation. RBP dysregulation may result in aberrant bone homeostasis and contribute to various bone diseases. The function of RBPs in bone physiology and pathophysiology and the underlying molecular mechanisms have been extensively studied in recent years. This article provides a review of such studies, highlighting the potential of RBPs as pivotal targets for therapeutic intervention.

Computational Fluid-Structure Interaction in Microfluidics.

Micro elastofluidics is a transformative branch of microfluidics, leveraging the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) at the microscale to enhance the functionality and efficiency of various microdevices. This review paper elucidates the critical role of advanced computational FSI methods in the field of micro elastofluidics. By focusing on the interplay between fluid mechanics and structural responses, these computational methods facilitate the intricate design and optimisation of microdevices such as microvalves, micropumps, and micromixers, which rely on the precise control of fluidic and structural dynamics. In addition, these computational tools extend to the development of biomedical devices, enabling precise particle manipulation and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in cardiovascular applications. Furthermore, this paper addresses the current challenges in computational FSI and highlights the necessity for further development of tools to tackle complex, time-dependent models under microfluidic environments and varying conditions. Our review highlights the expanding potential of FSI in micro elastofluidics, offering a roadmap for future research and development in this promising area.

Genotypes, epidemiological variables and fungicides application associated with wheat leaf rust development and grain yield.

The present study was carried out at the Plant Pathology Hafizabad Research Station, the University of Layyah, during the crop seasons 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to evaluate the response of various wheat genotypes against leaf rust severity (%), environmental conditions favourable for disease development and grain yield. Except for minimum temperature and minimum relative humidity, which had a negative association with disease development, there was a significant correlation between leaf rust severity (%) and all environmental conditions such as maximum temperature, maximum relative humidity, rainfall, and wind speed. All epidemiological variables such as maximum temperature, minimum temperature, minimum relative humidity, rainfall and wind speed significantly affect the disease progression. The disease predictive model accounted for 48-69 % variability in leaf rust severity. The model performance was evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.69) and RMSE, both demonstrated acceptable predictive results for leaf rust severity (%) management. Leaf rust severity (%) increased with an increase in maximum temperature (17.8-30 °C), maximum relative humidity (76.3-85 %), rainfall (2.2-10.85 mm) and wind speed 1.1-2.7 km/h and decreased with the increase of minimum temperature (7.91-16.71 °C) minimum relative humidity (47.15-56.45 %) during both rating seasons 2021-2022 and 2022-2023. The single and two applications of fungicides at the Zadok's scale 3, ZS 4.3, and ZS 5.4 stages led to a significant reduction in grain yield losses caused by leaf rust severity (%) in both the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 crop seasons. Single and two sprays of prothioconazole, were found to be the first choice among all treatments to reduce the disease severity and increase grain production and maximum gross revenue (513.1-777.8$/ha), as compared to followed by single and two sprays of propiconazole (Progress), tebuconazole + trifloxystrobin, tebuconazole, bixafen + tebuconazole, and propiconazole (Tilt), respectively. These findings recommend the involvement of genotype resistance and weather predictors in wheat leaf rust development, along with fungicide application studies, to improve the predictability of host resistance to disease, future models, and the sustainability of disease control methods.

Methyl jasmonate advances fruit ripening, colour development, and improves antioxidant quality of 'Yoho' and 'Jiro' persimmon.

Methyl jasmonate (MJ) has potential to regulate fruit ripening and quality. 'Yoho' and 'Jiro' persimmons were sprayed with MJ (0, 2, 4, and 6 mM), four weeks before anticipated harvest to evaluate its effects on fruit colour and bioactive compounds. Preharvest MJ application significantly improved fruit colour with increased a*, b*, chroma, and colour index. The MJ 6 mM application had significantly enhanced soluble solids content (SSC), reduced total chlorophyll content in peel and pulp, and soluble and total tannins in persimmons. MJ treatments exhibited higher contents of total phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidant activities. Additionally, MJ treatments enhanced the activities of shikimate dehydrogenase (SKDH), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes. Overall, pre-harvest MJ application at 6 mM four weeks before anticipated harvest could be useful for advancing colour and improving bioactive compounds in 'Yoho' and 'Jiro' persimmons.

A Review on Camel Milk Composition, Techno-Functional Properties and Processing Constraints.

Camel milk plays a critical role in the diet of peoples belongs to the semi-arid and arid regions. Since prehistoric times, camel milk marketing was limited due to lacking the processing facilities in the camel-rearing areas, nomads practiced the self-consumption of raw and fermented camel milk. A better understanding of the techno-functional properties of camel milk is required for product improvement to address market and customer needs. Despite the superior nutraceutical and health promoting potential, limited camel dairy products are available compared to other bovines. It is a challenging impetus for the dairy industry to provide diversified camel dairy products to consumers with superior nutritional and functional qualities. The physicochemical behavior and characteristics of camel milk is different than the bovine milk, which poses processing and technological challenges. Traditionally camel milk is only processed into various fermented and non-fermented products; however, the production of commercially important dairy products (cheese, butter, yogurt, and milk powder) from camel milk still needs to be processed successfully. Therefore, the industrial processing and transformation of camel milk into various products, including fermented dairy products, pasteurized milk, milk powder, cheese, and other products, require the development of new technologies based on applied research. This review highlights camel milk's processing constraints and techno-functional properties while presenting the challenges associated with processing the milk into various dairy products. Future research directions to improve product quality have also been discussed.

Effects of sub-lethal concentrations of lindane on histo-morphometric and physio-biochemical parameters of Labeo rohita.

Lindane is a broad-spectrum insecticide widely used on fruits, vegetables, crops, livestock and on animal premises to control the insects and pests. The extensive use of pesticides and their residues in the soil and water typically join the food chain and thus accumulate in the body tissues of human and animals causing severe health effects. The study was designed to determine the toxicity effects of sub-lethal concentrations of lindane on hemato-biochemical profile and histo-pathological changes in Rohu (Labeo rohita). A significant increase in the absolute (p<0.05) and relative (p<0.05) weights was observed along with severe histo-pathological alterations in liver, kidneys, gills, heart and brain at 30µg/L and 45µg/L concentration of lindane. A significant (p<0.05) decrease in RBCs count, PCV and Hb concentration while a significant (p<0.05) increased leukocytes were observed by 30µg/L and 45µg/L concentrations of lindane at 45 and 60 days of the experiment. Serum total protein and albumin were significantly (p<0.05) decreased while hepatic and renal enzymes were significantly (p<0.05) increased due to 30µg/L and 45µg/L concentrations of lindane at days-45 and 60 of experiment compared to control group. The observations of thin blood smear indicated significantly increased number of erythrocytes having nuclear abnormalities in the fish exposed at 30µg/L and 45µg/L concentrations of lindane. ROS and TBARS were found to be significantly increased while CAT, SOD, POD and GSH were significantly decreased with an increase in the concentration and exposure time of lindane. The results showed that lindane causes oxidative stress and severe hematological, serum biochemical and histo-pathological alterations in the fish even at sub-lethal concentrations.

Pharmacognostic Evaluation, Chemical Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Bassia indica (Wight) A.J. Scott.

Bassia indica (Wight) A.J. Scott is an Indian origin plant with documented medicinal and nutritional value, but has not been fully characterized yet. The present study was designed to establish pharmacognostic standards for the proper identification of the B. indica plant and its chemical characterization. The plant was standardized with World Health Organization (WHO) standardization tools and chemically characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. Antibacterial potential was assessed by the zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and molecular docking studies were also performed. Pharmacognostic evaluation established the macroscopic and microscopic parameters for the identification of whole plant and its powder. Physicochemical parameters were also set forth while quantitative phytochemical analysis showed that the ethyl acetate fraction had the highest quantity of phenols, flavonoids, and tannins. FTIR analysis showed several functional groups such as phenols, alkanes, and alcohols while 55 phytochemicals were identified in the GC-MS analysis of the crude fraction. The crude extract and other fractions showed marked antibacterial activity, while the ethyl acetate fraction showed the least MIC (1.95-31.25 mg/mL). Phytochemicals identified in the GC-MS showed good molecular docking interactions against the DNA gyrase subunit B of bacteria with binding energies ranging from -4.2 to -9.4 kcal/mol. The current study describes the pharmacognostic characterization and phytochemical profiling of B. indica and provides scientific evidence to support its use in infections.

Temporal and Dosage Impact of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles on Grass Carp: Unveiling Oxidative Stress, DNA Damage and Antioxidant Suppression.

Magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) have gained significant importance in biomedicine and variety of nanotechnology-based materials used in the agriculture and biomedical industries. However, the release of different nanowastes in the water ecosystem becomes a serious concern. Therefore, this study was executed to evaluate the toxic impacts of MgO NPs on grass carp. A total of 60 grass carp were randomly divided in three groups (G0, G1, and G2). Fish reared in group G0 were kept as control while fish of groups G1 and G2 were exposed to 0.5mg/L and 0.7mg/L MgO NPs respectively, mixed in water for 21 days. The 96h median lethal concentration (LC50) of MgO NPs was found to be 4.5mg/L. Evaluation of oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidant enzymes, DNA damage in different visceral organs and the presence of micronuclei in erythrocytes were determined on days-7, 14, and 21 of the trial. Results revealed a dose and time-dependent significantly increased values of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation product, DNA damage in multiple visceral organs and formation of micronuclei in the erythrocytes of treated fish (0.7mg/L). The results on antioxidant profile exhibited significantly lower amounts of total proteins, catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase in visceral organs of the fish exposed to MgO NPs (0.5 and 0.7mg/L) at day 21 of trial compared to control group. In conclusion, it has been recorded that MgO NPs severely influence the normal physiological functions of the grass carp even at low doses.

Exploring enantioselective recognition of dTMP-Co-bpe coordination polymer for natural amino acids using molecular simulations and circular dichroism.

The 1D homochiral coordination polymer (CP-1) {[Co(dTMP)(bpe)2(H2O)3]·9H2O}n was constructed by using 2'-deoxy thymidine 5'-monophosphate disodium salt (dTMP·2Na), and auxiliary ligand bpe (1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethene) and characterized by single-crystal XRD, PXRD, IR, UV-visible, CD and TGA analyses. Molecular simulations revealed the selective chiral behaviour of CP-1 towards phenylalanine and histidine, as indicated by their higher binding free energies compared to other amino acids. Theoretical parameters were also compared with experimental UV-visible verdicts. Notably, the D-enantiomers of phenylalanine and histidine demonstrated strong bonding abilities and optimal configurations for probing and distinguishing them from their L-counterparts. These findings led to propositions suggesting that the dissimilarities between these D and L amino acid forms and their binding orientations with CP-1 may contribute to alterations in the CD signal. CP-1 exhibited a robust inherent circular dichroism (CD) signal in aqueous solutions, modulated by the presence of specific amino acids, namely D/L phenylalanine and D/L histidine. Leveraging the measurement of CD signal intensity, a sensor capable of detecting unmodified amino acids has been developed. Unlike previously reported approaches that relied on complex chemical reactions between initially CD-silent molecules and probed amino acids, this new method offers a more straightforward means of amplifying the CD signal. Consequently, this change facilitates a more accurate differentiation between the enantiomers of these specific amino acids compared to others.

Influence of maize genotypes and harvest stages on in-silo fermentation quality and nutritional value of corn silage during hot summer condition of the tropics.

The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the potential of promising summer maize genotypes and optimal stage of harvesting these genotypes for ensiling in terms of dry matter (DM), starch, and crude protein (CP) yields, silage fermentation quality, nutrients profile, total digestible nutrients, metabolizable energy (ME) content, Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) carbohydrate (CHO) subfractions composition, in vitro DM digestibility (DMD) and in situ starch degradation characteristics. Six maize genotypes were chosen for the study: DK9108 from Monsanto, P30Y87, P3939 from Pioneer, QPM-300 (quality protein maize) and W94 from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), and a local cultivar, Afgoii, from the Cereal Research Institute (Persabaq, KP). A total of 72 plots (8 m × 10 m) were blocked in three replicate fields, and within each field, each genotype was sown in four replicate plots according to a randomized complete block design. For the data analysis, the Proc-Mixed procedure of Statistical Analysis System with repeated measure analysis of variance was used. The DM yield was strongly influenced (P < 0.001) by maize genotypes, varying from 12.6 to 17.0 tons/ha. Except for total CHO and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), the contents of all measured chemical components varied (P < 0.001) among the genotypes. Further comparison revealed that, genotype P3939 had a higher (P < 0.05) content of CP (7.27 vs. 6.92%), starch (36.7 vs. 27.9%), DMD (65.4 vs. 60.0%), ME (2.51 vs. 2.30 Mcal/kg) and lactic acid (5.32 vs. 4.83%) and lowest content of NDF (37.3 vs. 43.1%), pH (3.7 vs. 4.10) compared to the local cultivar (Afgoii). Advancement of post-flowering maturity from 25 to 35% DM (23 to 41 days after flowering (DAF)) increased (P < 0.05) the DM yield (10.4 to 17.8 tons/ha), starch content (29.1 to 35.0%), DMD (65.3 to 67.3%) and ME (2.34 to 2.47 Mcal/kg), and decreased (P < 0.001) the contents of CP (7.42-6.73%), NDF (48.8-38.5%), pH (4.10 to 3.60), NH3-N (8.93-7.80%N) and effective degradability of starch (95.4 to 89.4). Results showed that for higher yields and silage nutritional and fermentation quality, maize crops should be harvested at whole crop DM content of 30-35% (34 to 41 DAF). It was further concluded that genotype P3939 is the most suitable summer maize genotype for silage production in terms of yields and silage nutritional and fermentation quality under the hot environmental conditions of the tropics.

Rising Mortality among Non-Hispanics due to Pancreatic Cancer in the United States. A CDC Database analysis.

PURPOSE: To examine mortality trends among non-Hispanic (NH) adults with pancreatic cancer. METHOD: CDC-WONDER database was used to extract death certificate data on pancreatic cancer-related mortality in NH adults aged ≥ 45 from 1999 to 2020. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 persons and annual percent changes (APCs) were calculated and stratified by year, age, sex, race, and region. RESULTS: From 1999 to 2020, 783,772 deaths occurred among middle-aged (45-64) and older (65-85 +) NH adults. Overall AAMR increased from 31.7 in 1999 to 33.8 in 2020 (APC: 0.35; 95% CI:0.28-0.41). NH older adults had higher AAMRs (67.9) than NH middle-aged adults (12.5). Men consistently had higher AAMRs (37.7) than women (28.4). NH African Americans had the highest AAMRs (40.8) compared to NH Whites (32.1), NH American Indians (23.9), and NH Asians (22.4). Metropolitan areas had a higher AAMR (32.7) than non-metropolitan areas (32.2). The Northeast region had the highest AAMR (34.0) followed by Midwest (33.2), South (32.2), and West (30.1). Delaware, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Michigan, and Mississippi had the highest AAMRs among states. CONCLUSIONS: Pancreatic cancer-related mortality among NH adults has increased from 1999 to 2020. Highest AAMRs were reported in older men, NH African Americans, the Northeastern and metropolitan areas.

MicroRNA biomarkers as next-generation diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases: a comprehensive review.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by abnormalities within neurons of the brain or spinal cord that gradually lose function, eventually leading to cell death. Upon examination of affected tissue, pathological changes reveal a loss of synapses, misfolded proteins, and activation of immune cells-all indicative of disease progression-before severe clinical symptoms become apparent. Early detection of NDs is crucial for potentially administering targeted medications that may delay disease advancement. Given their complex pathophysiological features and diverse clinical symptoms, there is a pressing need for sensitive and effective diagnostic methods for NDs. Biomarkers such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as potential tools for detecting these diseases. We explore the pivotal role of miRNAs in the context of NDs, focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. The review delves into the intricate relationship between aging and NDs, highlighting structural and functional alterations in the aging brain and their implications for disease development. It elucidates how miRNAs and RNA-binding proteins are implicated in the pathogenesis of NDs and underscores the importance of investigating their expression and function in aging. Significantly, miRNAs exert substantial influence on post-translational modifications (PTMs), impacting not just the nervous system but a wide array of tissues and cell types as well. Specific miRNAs have been found to target proteins involved in ubiquitination or de-ubiquitination processes, which play a significant role in regulating protein function and stability. We discuss the link between miRNA, PTM, and NDs. Additionally, the review discusses the significance of miRNAs as biomarkers for early disease detection, offering insights into diagnostic strategies.

Effectiveness of cephalosporins in hydrolysis and inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli biofilms.

IMPORTANCE: Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli contribute to global health challenges by forming biofilms, a key virulence element implicated in the pathogenesis of several infections. OBJECTIVE: The study examined the efficacy of various generations of cephalosporins against biofilms developed by pathogenic S. aureus and E. coli. METHODS: The development of biofilms by both bacteria was assessed using petri-plate and microplate methods. Biofilm hydrolysis and inhibition were tested using first to fourth generations of cephalosporins, and the effects were analyzed by crystal violet staining and phase contrast microscopy. RESULTS: Both bacterial strains exhibited well-developed biofilms in petri-plate and microplate assays. Cefradine (first generation) showed 76.78% hydrolysis of S. aureus biofilm, while significant hydrolysis (59.86%) of E. coli biofilm was observed by cefipime (fourth generation). Similarly, cefuroxime, cefadroxil, cefepime, and cefradine caused 78.8%, 71.63%, 70.63%, and 70.51% inhibition of the S. aureus biofilms, respectively. In the case of E. coli, maximum biofilm inhibition (66.47%) was again shown by cefepime. All generations of cephalosporins were more effective against S. aureus than E. coli, which was confirmed by phase contrast microscopy. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Cephalosporins exhibit dual capabilities of hydrolyzing and inhibiting S. aureus and E. coli biofilms. First-generation cephalosporins exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against S. aureus, while the third and fourth generations significantly inhibited E. coli biofilms. This study highlights the importance of tailored antibiotic strategies based on the biofilm characteristics of specific bacterial strains.

Spectral Efficiency Maximization for Mixed-Structure Cognitive Radio Hybrid Wideband Millimeter-Wave Transceivers in Relay-Assisted Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Systems.

This paper proposes a cognitive radio network (CRN)-based hybrid wideband precoding for maximizing spectral efficiency in millimeter-wave relay-assisted multi-user (MU) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. The underlying problem is NP-hard and non-convex due to the joint optimization of hybrid processing components and the constant amplitude constraint imposed by the analog beamformer in the radio frequency (RF) domain. Furthermore, the analog beamforming solution common to all sub-carriers adds another layer of design complexity. Two hybrid beamforming architectures, i.e., mixed and fully connected ones, are taken into account to tackle this problem, considering the decode-and-forward (DF) relay node. To reduce the complexity of the original optimization problem, an attempt is made to decompose it into sub-problems. Leveraging this, each sub-problem is addressed by following a decoupled design methodology. The phase-only beamforming solution is derived to maximize the sum of spectral efficiency, while digital baseband processing components are designed to keep interference within a predefined limit. Computer simulations are conducted by changing system parameters under different accuracy levels of channel-state information (CSI), and the obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed technique. Additionally, the mixed structure shows better energy efficiency performance compared to its counterparts and outperforms benchmarks.

Development of chitosan-based edible film incorporated with purified flavonoids from Moringa oleifera: Structural, thermal, antibacterial activity and application.

Purified flavonoids (PF) from Moringa oleifera leaves were incorporated in chitosan (CS) polymer at different concentrations (0.5-4%) to produce a novel edible film. The physical, structure, mechanical, and bio-functional characterizations of the film were evaluated. The incorporation of PF significantly (p < 0.05) improved the thickness, solubility, swelling, and color of CS-films. Incorporating 4% of Moringa oleifera purified flavonoids (MOPF) improved the water vapor permeability from 8.85 to 2.47 g-1 s-1 Pa-1, and increased the film surface heterogeneity observed by SEM. Results also indicated that PF enhanced the mechanical properties and thermal stability of CS-films. The FTIR results indicated alterations in the CS-MOPF composite films' characteristics. Additionally, the incorporation of MOPF increased the antioxidation capacity. Furthermore, 4% of MOPF inhibited the activity of pathogenic bacteria in packed beef burgers. These results suggest that CS-MOPF composite films with enhanced technological and bio-functional properties could be industrially applied to increase the shelf-life of packaged foods.

Synergistic reductive catalytic effects of an organic and inorganic hybrid covalent organic framework for hydrogen fuel production.

Electrocatalytic hydrogen generation in alkaline medium has become widely used in a variety of sectors. However, the possibility for additional performance improvement is hampered by slow kinetics. Because of this restriction, careful control over processes such as water dissociation, hydroxyl desorption and hydrogen recombination is required. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) based on porphyrin and polyoxometalates (POMs) show encouraging electrocatalytic performance, offering a viable route for effective and sustainable hydrogen generation. Their specific architectures lead to increased electrocatalytic activity, which makes them excellent choices for developing water electrolysis as a clean energy conversion method in the alkaline medium. In this regard, TTris@ZnPor and Lindqvist POM were coordinated to create a new eco-friendly and highly active covalent organic framework (TP@VL-COF). In order to describe TP@VL-COF, extensive structural and morphological investigations were carried out through FTIR, 1H NMR, elemental analysis, SEM, fluorescence, UV-visible, PXRD, CV, N2-adsorption isotherm, TGA and DSC analyses. In an alkaline medium, the electrocatalytic capability of 20%C/Pt, TTris@ZnPor, Lindqvist POM and TP@VL-COF was explored and compared for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The TP@VL-COF showed the best catalytic efficiency for HER in an alkaline electrolyte, requiring just a 75 mV overpotential to drive 10 mA cm-2 and outperforming 20%C/Pt, TTris@ZnPor, Lindqvist POM and other reported catalysts. The Tafel slope value also indicates faster kinetics for TP@VL-COF (114 mV dec-1) than for 20%C/Pt (182 mV dec-1) TTris@ZnPor (116 mV dec-1) and Lindqvist POM (125 mV dec-1).

Delayed Presentation of Severe Blunt Liver Trauma Following a 12-Foot Fall: A Case Report of a Grade 4 Hepatic Injury With a Concurrent Grade 1 Renal Injury.

The delayed presentation of a 15-year-old female with a complex Grade 4 liver injury and a concurrent Grade 1 renal injury sustained from a fall exemplifies the heightened vulnerability of adolescents to blunt hepatic trauma. Unlike typical presentations where symptoms like abdominal pain and internal bleeding appear immediately, this case emphasises the potential for delayed manifestation, posing unique challenges for diagnosis and management. This case, managed at a leading trauma centre, underscores the distinct challenges compared to adult cases due to adolescents' larger space available for the organ and immature livers. While presenting more management complexity than typical splenic injuries, prompt intervention with emergency laparotomy and hepatic packing proved crucial for the patient's successful outcome. This case emphasises the critical role of early identification, vigilant monitoring, and strict activity restrictions post-operatively for optimal adolescent liver trauma management and serves as a reminder of the spectrum of potential injuries, including bile duct and vascular damage alongside contusions and haematomas.