Reciprocal effect on lateral diffusion of receptor for advanced glycation endproducts and toll-like receptor 4 in the HEK293 cell membrane.

Receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) are pattern-recognition receptors that bind to molecular patterns associated with pathogens, stress, and cellular damage. Diffusion plays an important role in receptor functionality in the cell membrane. However, there has been no prior investigation of the reciprocal effect of RAGE and TLR4 diffusion properties in the presence and absence of each receptor. This study reports how RAGE and TLR4 affect the mobility of each other in the human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cell membrane. Diffusion properties were measured using single-particle tracking (SPT) with quantum dots (QDs) that are selectively attached to RAGE or TLR4. The Brownian diffusion coefficients of RAGE and TLR4 are affected by the presence of the other receptor, leading to similar diffusion coefficients when both receptors coexist in the cell. When TLR4 is present, the average Brownian diffusion coefficient of RAGE increases by 40%, while the presence of RAGE decreases the average Brownian diffusion coefficient of TLR4 by 32%. Diffusion in confined membrane domains is not altered by the presence of the other receptor. The mobility of the cell membrane lipid remains constant whether one or both receptors are present. Overall, this work shows that the presence of each receptor can affect a subset of diffusion properties of the other receptor without affecting the mobility of the membrane.

Natural dyes developed by microbial-nanosilver to produce antimicrobial and anticancer textiles.

Developing special textiles (for patients in hospitals for example) properties, special antimicrobial and anticancer, was the main objective of the current work. The developed textiles were produced after dyeing by the novel formula of natural (non-environmental toxic) pigments (melanin amended by microbial-AgNPs). Streptomyces torulosus isolate OSh10 with accession number KX753680.1 was selected as a superior producer for brown natural pigment. By optimization processes, some different pigment colors were observed after growing the tested strain on the 3 media. Dextrose and malt extract enhanced the bacteria to produce a reddish-black color. However, glycerol as the main carbon source and NaNO3 and asparagine as a nitrogen source were noted as the best for the production of brown pigment. In another case, starch as a polysaccharide was the best carbon for the production of deep green pigment. Peptone and NaNO3 are the best nitrogen sources for the production of deep green pigment. Microbial-AgNPs were produced by Fusarium oxysporum with a size of 7-21 nm, and the shape was spherical. These nanoparticles were used to produce pigments-nanocomposite to improve their promising properties. The antimicrobial of nanoparticles and textiles dyeing by nanocomposites was recorded against multidrug-resistant pathogens. The new nanocomposite improved pigments' dyeing action and textile properties. The produced textiles had anticancer activity against skin cancer cells with non-cytotoxicity detectable action against normal skin cells. The obtained results indicate to application of these textiles in hospital patients' clothes.

Shallow-level defect passivation by 6H perovskite polytype for highly efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.

The power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells continues to increase. However, defects in perovskite materials are detrimental to their carrier dynamics and structural stability, ultimately limiting the photovoltaic characteristics and stability of perovskite solar cells. Herein, we report that 6H polytype perovskite effectively engineers defects at the interface with cubic polytype FAPbI3, which facilitates radiative recombination and improves the stability of the polycrystalline film. We particularly show the detrimental effects of shallow-level defect that originates from the formation of the most dominant iodide vacancy (VI+) in FAPbI3. Furthermore, additional surface passivation on top of the hetero-polytypic perovskite film results in an ultra-long carrier lifetime exceeding 18 µs, affords power conversion efficiencies of 24.13% for perovskite solar cells, 21.92% (certified power conversion efficiency: 21.44%) for a module, and long-term stability. The hetero-polytypic perovskite configuration may be considered as close to the ideal polycrystalline structure in terms of charge carrier dynamics and stability.

Advances in functionalization and conjugation mechanisms of dendrimers with iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles.

Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are crucial in various areas due to their unique magnetic properties. However, their practical use is often limited by instability and aggregation in aqueous solutions. This review explores the advanced technique of dendrimer functionalization to enhance MNP stability and expand their application potential. Dendrimers, with their symmetric and highly branched structure, effectively stabilize MNPs and provide tailored functional sites for specific applications. We summarize key synthetic modifications, focusing on the impacts of dendrimer size, surface chemistry, and the balance of chemical (e.g., coordination, anchoring) and physical (e.g., electrostatic, hydrophobic) interactions on nanocomposite properties. Current challenges such as dendrimer toxicity, control over dendrimer distribution on MNPs, and the need for biocompatibility are discussed, alongside potential solutions involving advanced characterization techniques. This review highlights significant opportunities in environmental, biomedical, and water treatment applications, stressing the necessity for ongoing research to fully leverage dendrimer-functionalized MNPs. Insights offered here aim to guide further development and application of these promising nanocomposites.

In silico exploration of deep-sea fungal metabolites as inhibitor of Ebola and Marburg VP35 and VP40.

VP30 and VP40 proteins of Ebola and Marburg viruses have been recognized as potential targets for antiviral drug development due to their essential roles in the viral lifecycle. Targeting these proteins could disrupt key stages of the viral replication process, inhibiting the viruses' ability to propagate and cause disease. The current study aims to perform molecular docking and virtual screening on deep-sea fungal metabolites targeting Marburg virus VP40 Dimer, matrix protein VP40 from Ebola virus Sudan, Ebola VP35 Interferon Inhibitory Domain, and VP35 from Marburg virus. The top ten compounds for each protein target were chosen using the glide score. All the compounds obtained indicate a positive binding interaction. Furthermore, AdmetSAR was utilized to investigate the pharmacokinetics of the inhibitors chosen. Gliotoxin was used as a ligand with Marburg virus VP40 Dimer, Austinol with matrix protein VP40 from Ebola virus Sudan, Ozazino-cyclo-(2,3-dihydroxyl-trp-tyr) with Ebola VP35 Interferon Inhibitory Domain, and Dehydroaustinol with VP35 from Marburg virus. MD modeling and MMPBSA studies were used to provide a better understanding of binding behaviors. Pre-clinical experiments can assist validate our in-silico studies and assess whether the molecule can be employed as an anti-viral drug.

Elucidating the role of rice straw biochar in modulating Helianthus annuus L. antioxidants, secondary metabolites and soil post-harvest characteristics in different types of microplastics.

The emergence of microplastics (MPs) as pollutants in agricultural soils is increasingly alarming, presenting significant threats to soil ecosystems. Given the widespread contamination of ecosystems by various types of MPs, including polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE), it is crucial to understand their effects on agricultural productivity. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different types of MPs (PS, PVC, and PE) on various aspects of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) growth with the addition of rice straw biochar (RSB). This study aimed to examine plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange characteristics, oxidative stress indicators, and the response of various antioxidants (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) and their specific gene expression, proline metabolism, the AsA-GSH cycle, cellular fractionation in the plants and post-harvest soil properties. The research outcomes indicated that elevated levels of different types of MPs in the soil notably reduced plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and gas exchange attributes. Different types of MPs also induced oxidative stress, which caused an increase in various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds, gene expression and sugar content; notably, a significant increase in proline metabolism, AsA-GSH cycle, and pigmentation of cellular components was also observed. Favorably, the addition of RSB significantly increased plant growth and biomass, gas exchange characteristics, enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds, and relevant gene expression while decreasing oxidative stress. In addition, RSB amendment decreased proline metabolism and AsA-GSH cycle in H. annuus plants, thereby enhancing cellular fractionation and improving post-harvest soil properties. These results open new avenues for sustainable agriculture practices and show great potential for resolving the urgent issues caused by microplastic contamination in agricultural soils.

TALE gene family: identification, evolutionary and expression analysis under various exogenous hormones and waterlogging stress in Cucumis sativus L.

BACKGROUND: Three Amino acid Loop Extension (TALE) belongs to the homeobox group of genes that are important constituents of plant systems. The TALE gene family is instrumental not only in growth and development but also plays an essential role in regulating plant response to environmental adversaries. RESULTS: In the present study, we isolated 21 CsTALE genes from the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) genome database. Bioinformatics tools were put in place to understand the structural and functional components of the CsTALE gene family. The evolutionary analysis dissected them into seven subclades (KNOX-I, KNOX-II, and BELL-I to BELL-V). The cis-acting elements in the promoter region of CsTALE genes disclosed that they are key regulators of hormonal and stress-related processes. Additionally, the STRING database advocated the concerting role of CsTALE proteins with other key transcription factors potent in plant developmental biology. The CsmiR319 and CsmiR167a-3p targeting the CsTALE15 and CsTALE16, respectively, further assert the importance of the CsTALE gene family posttranscriptional-related processes. Tissue-specific gene expression unfolded the fundamental involvement of CsTALE genes as they were expressed throughout the developmental stages. Under waterlogging stress, the CsTALE17 expressed significantly higher values in WL, WL-NAA, and WL-ETH but not in WL-MeJA-treated samples. CONCLUSIONS: The present study reveals the evolution and functions of the CsTALE gene family in cucumber. Our work will provide a platform that will help future researchers address the issue of waterlogging stress in the Yangtze River Delta.

The Influence of Taste Genes on Body Fat and Alcohol Consumption.

Dietary intake and alcohol consumption might be influenced by genetic variations in taste receptor genes. The objectives of this study were to examine the relationship between polymorphisms in the bitter taste receptor genes TAS2R13 (rs1015443) and TAS2R38 (rs1726866, rs10246939, and rs713598) as well as alcohol consumption and body fat percentage in college students. Four hundred and two students with a mean age of 20.2 years participated in this study. An NIH Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ II) was used to collect data on their dietary intake, while an AUDIT survey was used to determine their level of alcohol consumption. Bitter taste receptor gene polymorphisms were assessed by TaqMan allelic discrimination assays. Despite significant associations between TAS2R13 (rs1015443) and certain aspects of alcohol consumption, including the frequency of alcohol intake, no significant associations were found between TAS2R13 (rs1015443) and alcohol consumption after accounting for confounding variables in the regression model. Neither association was found regarding percent of body fat. In contrast, ethnicity and gender significantly influenced percent of body fat (p < 0.001), while no significant association was observed between TAS2R13 (rs1015443) and percent of body fat. Likewise, TAS2R38 (rs1726866, rs10246939, and rs713598) demonstrated no significant association with alcohol consumption and percent of body fat. These results were controlled for confounding factors, such as ethnicity and gender. Body fat percentage and alcohol consumption may be influenced by ethnicity, gender, and age rather than SNPs of TAS2R13 and TAS2R38 genes. Assessing taste genes' interactions with diet and body composition might be useful in identifying human disease risk.

Germination responses of Lens Culiunaris L. seeds to osmotic potentials at cardinal temperatures using hydrothermal time model.

BACKGROUND: Lentil is a significant legume that are consumed as a staple food and have a significant economic impact around the world. The purpose of the present research on lentil was to assess the hydrothermal time model's capacity to explain the dynamics of Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 seed germination, as well as to ascertain the germination responses at various sub-optimal temperatures (T) and water potentials (Ψ). In order to study lentil seed germination (SG) behavior at variable water potentials (Ψs) and temperatures (Ts). A lab experiment employing the hydrothermal time model was created. Seeds were germinated at six distinct temperatures: 15 0С, 20 0С, 25 0С, 30 0С, 35 0С, and 40 0С, with five Ψs of 0, -0.3, -0.6, -0.9, and - 1.2 MPa in a PEG-6000 (Polyethylene glycol 6000) solution. RESULTS: The results indicated that the agronomic parameters like Germination index (GI), Germination energy (GE), Timson germination index (TGI), were maximum in 25 0C at (-0.9 MPa) and lowest at 40 0C in 0 MPa. On other hand, mean germination time (MGT) value was highest at 15 0C in -1.2 MPa and minimum at 40 0C in (-0.6 MPa) while Mean germination rate (MGR) was maximum at 40 0C in (0 MPa) and minimum at 15 0C in (-0.6 MPa). CONCLUSIONS: The HTT model eventually defined the germination response of Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 (Lentil) for all Ts and Ψs, allowing it to be employed as a predictive tool in Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 (Lentil) seed germination simulation models.

Influence of planting dates and fertilizer modules on yield of chrysanthemum and soil health.

BACKGROUND: Optimum planting date and appropriate fertilizer module are essential facets of chrysanthemum cultivation, to enhance quality yield, and improve soil health. A field-based study was undertaken over multiple growing seasons in 2022 and 2023, where six different planting dates, viz., P1:June 15, P2:June 30, P3:July 15, P4:July 30, P5:August 15 and P6:August 30 and two fertilizer modules, FM1:Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant-1 and FM2:NPK @ 30 g m-2 were systematically examined using a Randomized Block Design (factorial), replicated thrice. RESULTS: P6 planting resulted in early bud formation (44.03 days) and harvesting stage (90.78 days). Maximum plant height (79.44 cm), plant spread (34.04 cm), cut stem length (68.40 cm), flower diameter (7.83 cm), stem strength (19.38˚), vase life (14.90 days), flowering duration (24.08 days), available soil N (314 kg ha-1), available P (37 kg ha-1), available K (347 kg ha-1), bacterial count (124.87 × 107 cfu g-1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.72 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), fungal count (30.95 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), microbial biomass (48.79 µg g-1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.64 mg TPF h-1 g-1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (23.79 mol PNP h-1 g-1 soil) was recorded in P1 planting. Among the fertilization module, minimum days to bud formation (74.94 days) and days to reach the harvesting stage (120.95 days) were recorded with the application of NPK @30 g m-2. However, maximum plant height (60.62 cm), plant spread (23.10 cm), number of cut stems m-2 (43.88), cut stem length (51.34 cm), flower diameter (6.92 cm), stem strength (21.24˚), flowering duration (21.75 days), available soil N (317 kg ha-1), available P (37 kg ha-1) and available K (349 kg ha-1) were also recorded with the application of NPK @300 kg ha-1. Maximum vase life (13.87 days), OC (1.13%), bacterial count (131.65 × 107 cfu g-1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.89 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), fungal count (31.11 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), microbial biomass (51.27 µg g-1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.77 mg TPF h-1 g-1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (21.72 mol PNP h-1 g-1 soil) were observed with the application of Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant-1. CONCLUSION: Early planting (P1) and inorganic fertilization (NPK @ 30 g m-2) resulted in improved yield and soil macronutrient content. The soil microbial population and enzymatic activity were improved with the jeevamrit application. This approach highlights the potential for improved yield and soil health in chrysanthemum cultivation, promoting a more eco-friendly and economically viable agricultural model.

Operative versus non-operative management of posterior fossa epidural hematoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Posterior fossa epidural hematoma (PFEDH) is rare, occurring in less than 3% of head injuries. It can be managed either operatively or non-operatively. Management guidelines date from 2006, without recent updates providing class III evidence. METHOD: We searched PubMed and other databases for English language observational studies up to 2021 that compared the two treatment approaches for PFEDH and. RESULTS: Twenty-four of the 350 references, for involving 874 patients, met the study criteria. Conservative management showed higher GOS 5 scores and lower mortality. GCS 13-15 patients were more prevalent in the conservative group. Surgical cases often involved ventriculomegaly/compression, hydrocephalus or contusion. CONCLUSION: The study shed light on surgical versus conservative PFEDH management, although evidence is sparse. Generally, conservative methods showed better initial outcomes, and should be preferred. However, respect of individual patient traits and Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines is crucial: conservative management may not suit all cases. To enhance the evidence base, RCTs are important for optimal PFEDH management. Bridging this gap can substantially improve patient outcomes and clinical decision-making, emphasizing the need to consider both the available evidence and patient-specific factors for effective guidance.

Immulina® mitigates the development of illness when administered during the prodromal period of influenza viral infection in mice (Part 2).

BACKGROUND: Immulina®, a dietary supplement derived from Limnospira (formerly Arthrospira), is being investigated as a potential agent to increase antiviral resilience. In our recently published manuscript, we described the effects of Immulina® on influenza when taken daily, beginning before infection (prophylaxis) or after the onset of clinical symptoms of viral illness (therapeutic). However, the benefit of Immulina® in infected individuals before the manifestation of any symptoms (prodromal) has not been investigated yet. PURPOSE: To evaluate Immulina®'s potential use to increase the host antiviral immune response using a prodromal therapy regime. STUDY DESIGN: The efficacy of Immulina® extract was evaluated in rodents using a prodromal protocol (test material administered prior to the emergence of viral illness symptoms). METHODS: Immulina® (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) was orally administered to both genders of mice, 2 h following influenza A viral infection, and continued daily for 14 days. RESULTS: Compared to the infected control mice, animals fed Immulina® exhibited statistically significant reduction in the emergence of various physical symptoms of viral-induced illness and decreased viral RNA levels. The effects are likely mediated through the host immune system since the level of various cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ) were significantly increased in lung tissue. CONCLUSION: This study, together with our previous paper, indicate that Immulina® was most effective at enhancing immune antiviral resilience if administered before or soon after initial infection. The data generated can be used to guide additional research using human subjects.

Prophylactic and therapeutic mouse models for evaluating immunologic resilience to infection with influenza virus by Immulina® (Part 1).

BACKGROUND: Illness resulting from influenza is a global health problem that has significant adverse socioeconomic impact. Although various strategies such as flu vaccination have beneficial effects, the risk of this illness has not been eliminated. The use of botanicals may provide a complementary approach by enhancement of the host antiviral immune response. PURPOSE: Generate preclinical data using rodent models to determine the most effective utility of a Limnospira (formerly Arthrospira)-derived oral supplement (Immulina®) for enhancing host immunity to improve antiviral resilience. STUDY DESIGN: Two non-lethal mouse models (prophylactic and therapeutic) were used to evaluate the impact of Immulina® on increasing host resilience against experimental influenza infection. METHODS: Mice were fed Immulina® only for the 2 weeks prior to viral infection (prophylactic regime) or starting 3 days post-viral infection (at the onset of symptoms, therapeutic design). Three doses of Immulina® were evaluated in each model using both female and male mice. RESULTS: Significant protective effect of Immulina® against viral illness was observed in the prophylactic model (improved clinical scores, less body weight loss, decreased lung/body weight ratio, lower lung viral load, and increased lung IFN-γ and IL-6). Substantially less (minimal) protective effect was observed in the therapeutic model. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that Immulina® exerts a protective effect against influenza illness when administered using a prophylactic regime and may not be effective if given after the onset of symptoms. The results will help to optimally design future clinical trials.

Enhancing saline stress tolerance in soybean seedlings through optimal NH4+/NO3- ratios: a coordinated regulation of ions, hormones, and antioxidant potential.

BACKGROUND: Nitrogen (N) availability is crucial in regulating plants' abiotic stress resistance, particularly at the seedling stage. Nevertheless, plant responses to N under salinity conditions may vary depending on the soil's NH4+ to NO3- ratio. METHODS: In this study, we investigated the effects of different NH4+:NO3- ratios (100/0, 0/100, 25/75, 50/50, and 75/25) on the growth and physio-biochemical responses of soybean seedlings grown under controlled and saline stress conditions (0-, 50-, and 100-mM L- 1 NaCl and Na2SO4, at a 1:1 molar ratio). RESULTS: We observed that shoot length, root length, and leaf-stem-root dry weight decreased significantly with increased saline stress levels compared to control. Moreover, there was a significant accumulation of Na+, Cl-, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and malondialdehyde (MDA) but impaired ascorbate-glutathione pools (AsA-GSH). They also displayed lower photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b), K+ ion, K+/Na+ ratio, and weakened O2•--H2O2-scavenging enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione reductase under both saline stress levels, while reduced ascorbate peroxidase, and dehydroascorbate reductase under 100-mM stress, demonstrating their sensitivity to a saline environment. Moreover, the concentrations of proline, glycine betaine, total phenolic, flavonoids, and abscisic acid increased under both stresses compared to the control. They also exhibited lower indole acetic acid, gibberellic acid, cytokinins, and zeatine riboside, which may account for their reduced biomass. However, NH4+:NO3- ratios caused a differential response to alleviate saline stress toxicity. Soybean seedlings supplemented with optimal ratios of NH4+:NO3- (T3 = 25:75 and T = 4 50:50) displayed lower Na+ and Cl- and ABA but improved K+ and K+/Na+, pigments, growth hormones, and biomass compared to higher NH4+:NO3- ratios. They also exhibited higher O2•--H2O2-scavenging enzymes and optimized H2O2, MDA, and AsA-GSH pools status in favor of the higher biomass of seedlings. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, the NH4+ and NO3- ratios followed the order of 50:50 > 25:75 > 0:100 > 75:25 > 100:0 for regulating the morpho-physio-biochemical responses in seedlings under SS conditions. Accordingly, we suggest that applying optimal ratios of NH4+ and NO3- (25/75 and 50:50) can improve the resistance of soybean seedlings grown in saline conditions.

Exploring half-metallic ferromagnetism and thermoelectric properties of Tl2WX6 (X = Cl and Br) double perovskites.

Half-metallic semiconductors typically exhibit 100% spin polarization at the Fermi level which makes them desired materials for spintronic applications. In this study, we reported a half-metallic ferromagnetic nature in vacancy-ordered double perovskites Tl2WX6 (X = Cl and Br). The magnetic, electronic, and thermoelectric properties of the material are studied by the use of density functional theory (DFT). For the calculations of exchange-correlation potential, PBE-sol is employed while more accurate electronic band structure and density of states (DOS) are calculated by the mBJ potential. Both materials exhibited structural stability in the cubic structure with Fm3̄m space-group. The mechanical stability is confirmed by their computed elastic constants while their thermodynamic stability is attested by negative formation energy. The spin-based volume optimization suggested the ferromagnetic nature of the materials which is further confirmed by the negative value of the exchange energy Δ x(pd). Moreover, computed magnetic moment value for Tl2WCl6 and Tl2WBr6 is 2 µB and the majority of this comes from W. The spin-polarized band structure and DOS confirmed that both materials are half-metallic and at the Fermi level they exhibit 100% spin polarization. Furthermore, in the spin-down state, materials behave as semiconductors with wide bandgaps. Lastly, the thermoelectric properties are evaluated by the BoltzTrap code. The thermoelectric parameters which include the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, power factor, and figure of merit (ZT) are investigated in the range of temperatures from 200 to 800 K. The half-metallic ferromagnetic and thermoelectric characteristics make these materials desired for spintronics and thermoelectric applications.

Revealing tick diversity: Chemical profiling and dynamics in scanning microscopy and molecular phylogenetics.

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the evolutionary trajectories of Rhipicephalus ticks (Ixodidae) through the interpretation of molecular phylogenetics, elucidating their chromatographic spectrum. The use of advanced chromatographic tools in this study explored the dynamics chemical profiling, providing valuable insights into the evolutionary history and ecological adaptations. Prevalence of Rhipicephalus ticks was 4.5% in sheep and 3.9% in goats. The ITS2 sequence of the Rhipicephalus sanguineus (OK642408) and Rhipicephalus microplus (OK642409) form a distinct clade with sequences from other countries. The 16S rRNA sequences of R. sanguineus (OK560870) clustered with sequences form three lineages, tropical, temperate, and south-eastern. The Cox I gene-identified Rhipicephalus turanicus (OK623472) and R. microplus (OK623463) form separate clades with sequences. The HPLC chromatogram of tick samples reveals a diverse array of identified hydrocarbons, explained the complex chemical composition of their exoskeletons. This analytical approach provides valuable insights into the specific hydrocarbon profiles, allowing for potential applications in species differentiation, ecological studies, and a deeper understanding of the functional roles played by hydrocarbon compounds in tick physiology. The findings revealed the potential of applying molecular phylogenetics tools with chromatography not only to enhance our understanding of tick evolution but also to inform strategies for disease control and management in regions where Rhipicephalus ticks (Ixodidae) are endemic. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Chemical mapping utilizing advanced chromatographic techniques. Scanning microscopic insights high-resolution scanning tool to observe structural and morphological features of ticks at a molecular level. Molecular phylogeny data elucidate the evolutionary relationships among tick species.

Evaluation of E-max Porcelain Veneer Failures: A Retrospective Study.

Aim This retrospective study aimed to evaluate if E-max veneers over five years caused changes in gingival, periodontal health, and veneer failures. Background As aesthetic dentistry progresses, dental veneers are becoming increasingly popular in both general and specialized dental practices. Due to technological advancements in dental ceramics and adhesive systems, porcelain veneers have become a highly sought-after solution for improving aesthetics in dental patients. The success of porcelain laminate veneers, a commonly used method for aesthetic restoration, relies on various factors. E-max veneers are frequently utilized, with their long-term durability contingent upon factors such as color stability, resistance to abrasion, as well as good compressive, tensile, and shear strength, along with maintaining marginal integrity. Methodology In this study, data was collected through a checklist form used to record clinical parameters. The clinical parameters evaluated were inflammation and bleeding on probing (BOP). The gingival health was evaluated by gingival index, gingival color, texture, and bleeding on probing, and periodontal health was evaluated by the pocket depth and radiographic evaluations. Finally, the veneer was visually inspected for chipping, staining, and debonding history. The score for most of the cases ranged between 0-1, with only 10 cases displaying moderate gingival inflammation and BOP (Gingival Index 2). Siemens Orthopantomogram (OPG) systems were used for radiological evaluation and documentation of cases. E-max porcelain veneers were only included in the research. Results Out of 28 patients, each with 6-to-10-unit veneer cases was examined, 18 patients (64.3%) displayed healthy gingival status with no bleeding area recorded in none of the veneers amongst the 6 to 10 units. In 10 patients (35.7%) most of the veneers had inflamed gingival tissue that was bleeding on probing. The majority revealed the presence of stippling (92.9%), absence of recession (96.4%), and pocket depth (67.9%). Half of our participants had their veneer for more than five years (50%) and the majority presented with no significant changes in veneer recorded like marginal staining, debonding, or chipping (89.3%). Conclusion Multiple factors such as patient selection, proper treatment planning, and design, including material selection, play a significant role in the long-lasting success of ceramic veneers. The retrospective study indicated that proper oral hygiene measures are vital for the long-term sustainability of E max veneers.

Physicochemical and nutritional profiles of wild adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi Linn) accessions by GC, FTIR, and spectrophotometer.

Purpose of current study was to determine physicochemical, triglyceride composition, and functional groups of wild adlay accessions (brown, black, yellow, grey, green, off white, and purple) to find out its scope as cereal crop. Triglycerides, minerals and functional groups were determined through Gas chromatography, spectrophotometer and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer respectively. Results revealed variation among bulk densities, specific densities, percent empty spaces, and corresponding grain counts per 10 g of sample are useful in distinguishing brown, black, yellow, grey, green, off white, and purple wild adlay accessions. Specific density and grain count per 10 g sample was significantly related. No statistical relationship exists among the pronounced physical characteristics. Brown adlay expressed the highest protein, fat, and fiber contents 15.82%, 4.76% and 2.37% respectively. Protein, fat, ash, and fiber percent contents were found comparable to cultivated adlay. Spectrophotometric analysis revealed macro elements including phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and sodium in the range 0.3% - 2.2% and micro elements boron, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese in the range 1.6 mg/kg - 20.8 mg/kg. Gas chromatography showed polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) constitute the primary fraction (39% ± 7.2) of wild adlay triglycerides. Linoleic and palmitic acids were present as prominent fatty acids, 43.5% ±1.4 and 26.3% ±1.4 respectively. Infra-red frequencies distinguished functional groups in narrow band and fingerprint region of protein in association with out of plane region leading to structural differences among adlay accessions. Comparison of major distinguishing vibrational frequencies among different flours indicated black adlay containing highest functional groups appeared promising for varietal development.

Halotolerant Endophytic Bacteria Regulate Growth and Field Performance of Two Durum Wheat Genotypes with Contrasting Salinity Tolerance Potential.

Soil salinity hampers durum wheat plant growth and development at various stages. The detrimental effects of salinity on plant cellular and physiological processes necessitate strategies to alleviate its negative impact and improve overall crop yield. This study investigates the efficacy of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) bacteria inoculation in mitigating salinity stress on two durum wheat genotypes with contrasting degrees of salinity tolerance (Tamaroi, salt-sensitive and Line 5004, salt-tolerant) under greenhouse and field conditions. For this purpose, two halotolerant-PGPR strains, Pseudomonas jordanii strain G34 and Oceanobacillus jordanicus strain GSFE11, were utilized for the inoculation. For the greenhouse experiment, the two selected genotypes were subjected to salinity at the flag leaf stage with continuous irrigation with a Hoagland solution supplemented with 50 mM NaCl. Field experiments were conducted across two locations with contrasting salinity levels over two growing seasons. At the end of both experiments, various parameters including total weight, spike weight, grain weight, spike number, spikelet number, grains per spike and thousand kernel weight were measured. The halotolerant PGPRs, P. jordanii strain G34 and O. jordanicus strain GSFE11, proved effective in alleviating salinity-induced adverse effects and enhancing growth under greenhouse and field conditions. However, bacterial inoculation significantly improved growth in the salt-sensitive genotype and such effects were not observed in the tolerant genotype, emphasizing genotype-specific responses. Notably, inoculation with O. jordanicus increased Na+ and Ca2+ uptake in the salt-tolerant "Line 5004" without hindering growth, suggesting one of its potential mechanisms for salt tolerance. This research demonstrates the potential of halotolerant-PGPR inoculation in enhancing durum wheat production in saline environments, but also underscores the importance of understanding genotype-specific responses for tailored interventions.

Liming potential and characteristics of biochar produced from woody and non-woody biomass at different pyrolysis temperatures.

Large amount of wastes are burnt or left to decompose on site or at landfills where they cause air pollution and nutrient leaching to groundwater. Waste management strategies that return these food wastes to agricultural soils recover the carbon and nutrients that would otherwise have been lost, enrich soils and improve crop productivity. The incorporation of liming materials can neutralize the protons released, hence reducing soil acidity and its adverse impacts to the soil environment, food security, and human health. Biochar derived from organic residues is becoming a source of carbon input to soil and provides multifunctional values. Biochar can be alkaline in nature, with the level of alkalinity dependent upon the feedstock and processing conditions. This study conducted a characterization of biochar derived from the pyrolysis process of eggplant and Acacia nilotica bark at temperatures of 300 °C and 600 °C. An analysis was conducted on the biochar kinds to determine their pH, phosphorus (P), as well as other elemental composition. The proximate analysis was conducted by the ASTM standard 1762-84, while the surface morphological features were measured using a scanning electron microscope. The biochar derived from Acacia nilotica bark exhibited a greater yield and higher level of fixed carbon while possessing a lower content of ash and volatile components compared to biochar derived from eggplant. The eggplant biochar exhibits a higher liming ability at 600 °C compared to the acacia nilotica bark-derived biochar. The calcium carbonate equivalent, pH, potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) levels in eggplant biochars increased as the pyrolysis temperature increased. The results suggest that biochar derived from eggplant could be a beneficial resource for storing carbon in the soil, as well as for addressing soil acidity and enhancing nutrients availability, particularly potassium and phosphorus in acidic soils.