Scientifica

Speckle‐type pox virus and zinc finger protein (SPOP) has emerged as a key focus in prostate cancer research due to its critical role in regulating the androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway. This review aims to comprehensively summarize current knowledge on SPOP gene mutations in prostate cancer, emphasizing their importance in disease characterization and identification of therapeutic targets. A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. In addition, this study uses computational approaches and data from the TCGA cBioPortal database to explore the landscape of SPOP mutations in prostate cancer. After screening 682 articles and following systematic selection steps, 56 high‐quality articles were included. Computational analysis of TCGA cBioPortal data revealed a SPOP mutation prevalence of 5%‐6%, along with significant alterations in AR signaling and epigenetic regulation. SPOP mutations disrupt substrate recognition, leading to dysregulation of downstream pathways such as AR signaling and chromatin remodeling. Notably, SPOP‐mutant prostate cancers are mutually exclusive with TMPRSS2‐ERG fusions and enriched for Wnt pathway alterations. Patients with SPOP mutations demonstrate prolonged responses to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), although concurrent mutations in TP53 or DNA repair genes negatively impact outcomes. While their prognostic significance continues to evolve, their impact on the AR pathway highlights their potential as therapeutic targets. The clinical implications of SPOP mutations are substantial, as they are linked to variations in treatment response and disease progression, thus serving as valuable biomarkers for risk stratification and prognosis.

Gastric ulcers can result from oxidative stress, which generates free radicals. Amorphophallus oncophyllus ( A. oncophyllus ) has been reported to possess strong antioxidant activity. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidative stress potential of A. oncophyllus tuber extract in preventing indomethacin‐induced gastric ulcers in rats. In this study, 40 male rats were divided into five groups. The negative control group received 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) solvent, while the positive control group was given a single dose of indomethacin at 50 mg/kg BW. The remaining three groups were designated as treatment groups, where rats were administered A. oncophyllus tuber extract orally at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW, once daily for 14 days. On the 14th day, the treatment groups received a single dose of indomethacin at 40 mg/kg BW, 1 hour after administering the A. oncophyllus tuber extract. Four hours following indomethacin administration, the rats were euthanized for further analysis. Gastric tissues were collected for histological analysis and quantification of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels. Phytochemical screening of A. oncophyllus tuber extracts showed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and tannins. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test, which had an IC 50 value of 157.21 μg/mL. A single dose of indomethacin at 50 mg/kg BW caused the formation of hemorrhagic lesions in the gastric mucosa, elevated MDA levels, and decreased SOD and GPx levels and led to necrosis of gastric mucosal epithelial cells. In contrast, the administration of A. oncophyllus tuber extract at a dosage of 400 mg/kg BW showed significant improvements in gastric ulcers, including reduced MDA levels, increased SOD and GPx levels, and decreased necrosis of gastric mucosal epithelial cells compared to the positive control group. However, no significant effects were observed at dosages of 100 mg/kg BW and 200 mg/kg BW. In conclusion, the findings indicate that A. oncophyllus tuber extract possesses strong antioxidant activity and has the potential as a gastroprotective agent for mitigating indomethacin‐induced gastric ulcers in rats.

Te collaborative forest management (CFM) approach involves sustainable forest management in collaboration with local people to derive numerous benefts from government-managed forests, including maintenance of ecological balance, generation of economic returns, and improvement of livelihoods. Tis research aimed to analyze people's perception and knowledge regarding CFM at Sabaiya CFM in Parsa district, Nepal. Data were collected using household survey (n � 400), direct feld observation, focus group discussions and key informant interview. Interviews. Te results showed that both nearby and distant forest users had high expectations of receiving fuel wood and fodder from CFM. However, the inclusion of women and Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Groups (DAGs) in the management planning was found to be very low. Both distant users and nearby forest users demonstrated a lower level of awareness regarding forest management, resulting in a less positive attitude toward CFM and its associated benefts. It is recommended to encourage the participation of women and DAG members in management planning of CFM and engage them in income generation activities.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a crucial crop for food security and income generation in Western Ethiopia. However, unsuitable cultivar choices and misalignment between genotype and microclimate conditions often constrain its productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of eight national tomato cultivars and one local landrace across diverse microclimates in Western Ethiopia during the 2022/2023 off-season cropping period. A randomized complete block design with three replications was employed to assess growth, yield, and quality parameters at two locations: Bako Tibe and Gambella Tare. The results revealed significant genotype–environment interactions affecting various traits, underscoring the necessity for microclimatic adaptation in tomato cultivation. Cochoro emerged as a high-yielding cultivar, achieving marketable fruit yields of 91.5 t/ha at Bako and 84.28 t/ha at Gambella Tare, while Komto (43 t/ha at Bako Tibe) and Geli-Lema (42.2 t/ha at Gambella Tare) exhibited the lowest yields. Melka-Salsa demonstrated superior fruit quality, particularly in ascorbic acid content (26.30 mg/100 g), while Cochoro had the lowest (12.81 mg/100 g). A strong positive correlation (r = 0.998∗∗) was identified between total marketable fruit yield and fruit weight per plant, suggesting potential targets for future breeding efforts. This study highlights the critical role of genotype–environment interactions in optimizing tomato production across microclimates in Western Ethiopia. These findings provide valuable information for farmers and stakeholders to select the most suitable cultivars, enhancing yields and improving farmer incomes. Future research should prioritize expanded genotype–environment interaction studies, breeding programs targeting yield components and stress resilience traits, and the development of location-specific agronomic packages integrating optimized irrigation, nutrient management, and climate-smart pest control strategies.

Land degradation poses a signifcant environmental challenge, leading to reduced soil fertility, agricultural production, and overall land productivity. To combat this issue, the Ethiopian government has implemented various soil and water conservation (SWC) strategies in rural areas over the last few decades. Tis study assessed the impact of these SWC structures on selected soil physicochemical properties in Wali micro-watershed. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the study district and watershed, and a systematic randomized complete block design was used to collect soil samples. Samples were taken from both farmlands conserved with various SWC practices, like soil bund, stone bund, terraces, fanyajuu, and bench terrace, all from nonconserved lands along the lower, middle, slope classes using an "X" sampling design. Eighteen composite soil samples for all three slope classes were collected in triplicate from topsoil (0-30-cm depth) for analysis. Tese samples were processed and analyzed following standard laboratory procedures in the Ambo University Chemistry Department. Te study assessed soil bulk density, moisture, pH, cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, organic matter, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, and other basic cations (sodium, calcium, and magnesium). Te results showed that conserved farmlands had mean values of 1.26 g/cm 3 for bulk density, 6.72% for moisture, 6.29 for pH, 4.32% for organic matter, 2.24% for organic carbon, 0.30% for total nitrogen, 53.02 cmol/kg for CEC, 37.28 dS/cm for electrical conductivity, 25.80 mg/kg for available phosphorus, and 0.91 mg/kg for available potassium. In contrast, nonconserved farmlands exhibited 1.37 g/cm 3 for bulk density, 6.07% for moisture, 5.86 for pH, 3.12% for organic matter, 1.84% for organic carbon, 0.21% for total nitrogen, 46.6 cmol/kg for CEC, 37.23 dS/cm for electrical conductivity, 21.06 mg/kg for available phosphorus, and 0.63 mg/kg for available potassium. Te study concluded that SWC practices signifcantly improved soil bulk density, moisture content, pH, organic carbon, organic matter; cation exchange capacity, total nitrogen, sodium, available phosphorus, and potassium. However, electrical conductivity, calcium, and magnesium showed no signifcant improvement (p < 0.05). Tese fndings highlight the positive efects of SWC structures on soil quality, underscoring the importance of maintaining these practices for sustainable land management and advocating for their expansion to other watersheds.

The early diagnosis of opportunistic infections is a critical concern for patient care worldwide, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review examines the challenges and advancements in the management and early diagnosis of opportunistic fungal infections, which have become increasingly prominent during the pandemic. Using multiple sources, including curated databases such as PubMed and Scopus, as well as Google Scholar for broader literature searches, we systematically reviewed studies on COVID-19-associated fungal infections, with a focus on candidiasis, mucormycosis, and aspergillosis. The inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed articles, clinical case reports, and cohort studies that discussed diagnostic methods, clinical outcomes, and treatment responses. Data were systematically extracted and analyzed to identify key trends and gaps in current diagnostic practices. Given the significance of opportunistic fungal infections—particularly the selected species—this review provides a comprehensive analysis of diagnostic challenges and advancements in the context of COVID-19 and beyond. Currently, there is no definitive strategy for effectively addressing these opportunistic pathogens, highlighting the need for continued research and innovation. Despite advancements in medical technology, opportunistic fungal infections continue to pose significant challenges to early and accurate diagnosis. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, with secondary fungal infections contributing to increased morbidity and mortality rates. This review highlights the complexities of diagnosing fungal coinfections and emphasizes the urgent need for improved diagnostic strategies. Enhancing the early and accurate detection of these infections is critical for effective patient management, particularly during viral pandemics. Addressing the challenges outlined in this review requires innovative diagnostic approaches to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of opportunistic infections on global healthcare systems.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids–rich nuts are a group of natural sources that have served as a tonic in the treatment of many ailments for centuries. In this regard, P. amygdalas and J. regia nuts are traditionally used in infertility treatments. However, so far, the main mechanisms for the fertility-enhancing effects of these nuts in males/females are unknown. The present study was intended to evaluate the fertility-boosting effect of a mixture constituting P. amygdalas and J. regia oil on male/female infertility models and in two successive generations of rats; F0 (parents) and F1 (offspring). For the fertility assessment, male and female rats, 18 pairs (n = 36, 1:1, F0 generation), were separated into three groups and dosed with 2 and 4 mL/kg daily of oil mixture and saline, respectively, from precohabitation up to lactation. To determine the further protective role of the oil mixture in infertility, we designed ethanol-induced male and estradiol-induced female infertility models. Various parameters like hormonal, hematological, lipid profile, and antioxidant markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were measured along with histopathology of sex organs. The continual exposure of F0 and F1 generations to the oil mixture did not affect the fertility index and survival index in females. However, in males, all sperm parameters were significantly improved in both generations. We have found pronounced fertility outcomes with oil mixture supplementation in both genders of F0 and F1 generations. Results showed that the oil mixture significantly restored (p<0.05) luteinizing hormone (LH), follicular stimulating hormone, GPx, plasma testosterone, and SOD activities in both models. Histological findings endorsed enhanced folliculogenesis and spermatogenesis with enhanced architecture. Our results strongly suggest that P. amygdalas and J. regia oil mixture might be a promising option in future for male/female sterility treatment. This finding could pave the way in infertile men and women for clinical trials. This is the first study that has provided an experimental rationale for a walnut and almond oil mixture combination as an effective candidate for fertility recovery by improving sex hormones and managing oxidative stress.

This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition, antibacterial activity, and antitumor potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn, a widely used medicinal plant. Qualitative systematic phytochemical analysis was conducted on flower of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis for determining their antimicrobial and antitumor potential by using disc diffusion method and potato disc bioassay, respectively. Phytochemicals found in chloroform extract of H. rosa-sinensis were alkaloids, betacyanin’s, tannins, and quinones in nature while in ethanol extract only alkaloids and betacyanin’s were present. The findings demonstrated potent inhibitory effects of the extracts against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Chloroform extract exhibited more significant antibacterial activity as compared to ethanolic extract against various drug resistant pathogens such as Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis. Furthermore, the antitumor activity of the H. rosa-sinensis extract was evaluated using in vitro assays against selected cancer cell-lines. These extracts exhibited significant antiproliferative effects such as ethanolic extract had more significant antitumor activity as compared to chloroform. After 24 h zones of inhibition were analyzed and measured using ruler. The diameter of zones of inhibition of chloroform flower extract against E. coli, S. aureus, Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and B. subtilis, S. typhi was 11, 8, 13, 17, 10, and 23 mm, while ethanolic extract had 6, 0, 6, 10, 7, and 10 mm, zone of inhibition, respectively. Flower extracts by inhibiting the formation of crown gall tumors suggesting their potential as sources of natural anticancer compounds. These results provided valuable insights into the phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential of H. rosa-sinensis. Additional investigations into the bioactive components of H. rosa-sinensis might result in the creation of new antibacterial and anticancer medicines for use in a range of medical applications.

The Brazilian Cerrado, renowned as the most biodiverse savanna, is characterized by its pronounced climatic seasonality, diverse vegetation mosaic, and distinct topographic variations. Natural protected areas (NPA) within this biome play a pivotal role in safeguarding both biodiversity and natural resources. The objective of this study is to analyze the dynamic shifts in land use and land cover across seven NPA and their corresponding buffer zones (BZs) within a Cerrado region situated in Central-West Brazil. This research encompasses a comprehensive multitemporal analysis of satellite imagery spanning the period from 1985 to 2018 utilizing a geographic information system (GIS). The variability in land use and land cover classes is considerably more constrained within the NPA than BZs. The Templo dos Pilares Municipal Natural Park exhibits substantial expanses of preserved vegetation, while the Nascentes do Rio Taquari State Park demonstrates an extensive prevalence of pasturelands. The NPA exhibit coherent patterns of land cover transformation within their respective BZs. However, alterations in the landscape within the BZs offer insights into potential forthcoming challenges to the NPA. Escalated land use within the surrounding matrix of protected areas presents a formidable obstacle to biodiversity conservation, owing to extraneous pressures. A comprehensive understanding of the spatiotemporal distribution of land use and land cover within safeguarded Cerrado regions contributes substantively to the augmentation of management, preservation, and conservation endeavors over time.

Background: Pain is a significant symptom in cancer patients that is frequently not effectively treated, and managing it is seen as a crucial aspect of caring for these patients. This severe pain frequently causes a significant disturbance in their quality of life. At present, there are different challenges in utilizing a range of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments for managing pain in cancer patients. Recent technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, have improved the management of pain in cancer patients. Artificial intelligence and its algorithms offer potential solutions for pain relief in cancer patients with reduced side effects. Study Design: The current review aimed to assess the validity of studies on using artificial intelligence in pain management for cancer patients. Four databases have been used to review all published studies from the start of 2023: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search mechanism for articles was mainly using valid and mesh-based keywords, asking experts, and reviewing the literature and including “Pain,” “Pain management,” “Cancer,” and “Artificial intelligence.” During the initial search, a total of 450 articles were found, and after considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria and reviewing the abstract and content of the articles, 15 articles were finally included in the study. Results: AI-based solutions can provide individual pain relief plans. When AI analyzes large patient data such as physiological signals, responses to treatment, and symptoms of patients who have been diagnosed with pain, it is possible to accurately adjust therapeutic measures. Conclusions: AI enables healthcare providers to offer timely care and assistance to cancer patients through remote monitoring and telehealth services, even when they are not physically present. Despite the presence of hurdles such as ensuring ethical AI practices and protecting data privacy, the integration of AI in oncology pain management brings optimism for the future.

This study aims to document plant species used to fight several diseases related to mild COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, colds, fever, dizziness and diarrhoea in Gorontalo Province, eastern Indonesia. Data were collected from 105 local residents using semistructured questionnaires, open interviews and field surveys. Ethnobotanical indices including use reports (UR), relative frequency of citation (RFC) and fidelity level (FL) were used to analyse the data. A total of 82 plant species from 40 families were recorded. Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br. is predominantly used to treat cough, Zingiber officinale Roscoe to treat colds, Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken to treat fever, Allium sativum L. to treat dizziness and Psidium guajava L. to treat diarrhoea. The current research reveals that P. guajava L. is the most popular plant species with a high index value (RFC 0.62, FL 62%). Leaves (46.46%) are the most widely used part of the plant for some of these diseases. Boiling (31.70%) is the main method in preparing medicinal plants, most of which are given orally (77.73%). In addition, no serious side effects caused by the consumption of these medicinal plants in the treatment of several diseases related to mild COVID-19 symptoms have been reported. Current studies reveal the wealth and wide use of plant species to manage cough, colds, fever, dizziness and diarrhoea in the study area. Traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used by local residents of Gorontalo Province may help in the treatment of several diseases related to mild COVID-19 symptoms. Further research on preclinical studies needs to be conducted to provide scientific evidence of this result.

Respiratory viral infections, including influenza and coronaviruses, present significant health risks worldwide. The recent COVID‐19 pandemic highlights the urgent need for novel and effective antiviral agents. The host cell protease, transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), facilitates viral pathogenesis by playing a critical role in viral invasion and disease progression. This protease is coexpressed with the viral receptors of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for SARS‐CoV‐2 in the human respiratory tract and plays a significant role in activating viral proteins and spreading. TMPRSS2 activates the coronavirus spike (S) protein and permits membrane fusion and viral entry by cleaving the virus surface glycoproteins. It also activates the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, an enzyme necessary for the spread of influenza virus. TMPRSS2 inhibitors can reduce viral propagation and morbidity by blocking viral entry into respiratory cells and reducing viral spread, inflammation, and disease severity. This review examines the role of TMPRSS2 in viral replication and pathogenicity. It also offers potential avenues to develop targeted antivirals to inhibit TMPRSS2 function, suggesting a possible focus on targeted antiviral development. Ultimately, the review seeks to contribute to improving public health outcomes related to these viral infections.

Introduction: Periodontitis is an infectious disease of periodontal tissue caused by the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis which can trigger the formation of free radicals. Periodontitis can be treated using metronidazole but long‐term use can cause negative effects. Natural ingredients such as robusta coffee husk can be used as an alternative treatment for periodontitis because of its anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial benefits. Aim: To determine the effect of robusta coffee husk extract on the number of fibroblasts and collagen density in gingival Wistar rats induced by P. gingivalis . Methods: Robusta coffee husk extract was extracted using the maceration process with 96% ethanol. Thirty male Wistar rats divided into 6 treatment groups: healthy rat, negative control ( P. gingivalis + Aquades sterile), positive control ( P. gingivalis + metronidazole), and 3 treatment groups of extract concentration ( P. gingivalis + 125, 250, and 500 mg/kgBW). P. gingivalis injection was carried out in the buccal area of the left mandibular first molar of mice every 3 days. Robusta coffee husk extract and metronidazole were given by using sondase once a day for 21 days. The gingival specimens were then processed histologically. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining was performed to observe the number of fibroblast, and collagen density was observed by Thricome Mallory. The SPSS application was used to examine the data calculation which included the Shapiro–Wilk, Levene, One‐way ANOVA, and post hoc LSD tests. Result: Robusta coffee husk extract at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kgBW showed increased fibroblasts and collagen density in Wistar rats induced by P. gingivalis. Conclusion: The most effective dose of robusta coffee husk extract is 250 mg/kgBW, with an average value of fibroblast number in a field of view is 37 cells, and the average of collagen density in the field of view is 163 pixels.

Methotrexate (MTX), a potent analogue and antagonist of folic acid, is a first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, IBD and cancer. The development of MTX resistance contributes to the reduced efficacy and development of adverse reactions, forcing clinicians to withdraw treatment early. This drawback requires combinational approaches to combat the resistance and enhance the efficacy and safety of MTX. To provide a brief overview of MTX resistance and strategies to mitigate its aftereffects in cancer therapy, a literature-based search was conducted using keywords such as cancer pathology, MTX mechanism and resistance, S100A4, folate uptake, folate efflux, P-glycoprotein, beta-catenin and anticancer properties of Vitamins A, D, E and K. Investigations encompassing in vitro studies, in vivo studies and clinical trials were reviewed to identify the mechanisms of resistance induced by MTX and the potential benefits of coadministering fat-soluble vitamins with existing anticancer drugs. Derivates of Vitamin A could target cancer stem cells and increase chemotherapy sensitivity in non–small cell lung cancer. Similarly, calcitriol and cytotoxic medications exhibit additive or synergistic effects. Existing research revealed that fat-soluble vitamins can inhibit drug transporters, such as P-glycoprotein, which inhibit drug efflux, improving chemotherapy efficacy in cancer. As personalised medicine continues to evolve, incorporating combination approaches with MTX and fat-soluble vitamins holds promise for enhancing treatment efficacy, which can counteract MTX resistance via multiple pathways and improve the safety profile.

The biofilm‐forming ability of Streptococcus species, particularly Streptococcus mutans , is a key factor in the pathogenesis of dental caries and periodontitis. Current treatments often exhibit limitations such as incomplete biofilm eradication and cytotoxicity to host tissues, highlighting the need for innovative and biocompatible therapeutic approaches. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential of Centella asiatica ethanolic extract, its bioactive triterpenoids (asiatic acid and madecassic acid), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from the extract as an alternative strategy for targeting S. mutans biofilms. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of the synthesized AgNPs against Streptococcus species were evaluated, alongside cytotoxicity assessments on human gingival fibroblast (HGF‐1) cells using the MTT assay. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited superior antimicrobial efficacy compared to the extract, with significantly lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values (62.5/125 µg/mL) against S. mutans ATCC 25175 and S. mitis ATCC 49456, highlighting their potent bactericidal activity. Moreover, the AgNPs achieved rapid biofilm disruption, reducing biofilm biomass by 76% within 12 h at 1/2 × MIC, significantly outperforming the extract and triterpenoids. Scanning electron microscopy further revealed substantial extracellular polymeric substance degradation and biofilm structural disruption upon AgNP treatment, confirming their pronounced antibiofilm efficacy. In addition, the synthesized AgNPs demonstrated favorable biocompatibility, maintaining 68% cell viability in dental fibroblast cells, suggesting an optimal balance between antimicrobial potency and cytotoxicity. The synergistic interaction between AgNPs and C. asiatica phytochemicals significantly enhanced biofilm disruption compared to nonfunctionalized AgNPs. These findings underscore the potential of C. asiatica –based AgNPs as a novel, plant‐derived nanotechnological approach for managing oral infections caused by biofilm‐forming Streptococcus species. This study not only contributes to the development of alternative antibiofilm strategies but also paves the way for future clinical applications in oral healthcare.

The agro-industrial wastes gained much attention in recent years as an alternative source of animal feed because of the accelerated increase in the prices of feed and the need for the safe disposal of these wastes. Olive cake (OC), as one of the supplementary olive oil extraction by-products, is distinguished by its excellent nutritional value. However, the crude untreated OC is fibrous with low protein content which makes it unsuitable for animal feed. In this investigation, four indigenous microorganisms (two bacteria, one yeast, and one filamentous fungus) were isolated from OC. These isolates were evaluated for their ability to valorize OC as poultry feed by reducing fiber content and increasing protein content under solid-state fermentation. The filamentous fungal isolate NFAO4 demonstrated the best performance for these objectives. NFAO4 fungal isolate was selected as the best isolate to valorize OC. It was identified as Aspergillus oryzae based on ITS sequencing with 97.35% similarity. The conditions of solid-state fermentation were optimized using one-factor-at-a-time approach to be beef extract, pH 6, incubation period of 14 days at 28°C, and 3% inoculum size. The nutritional value of OC was enhanced by decreasing the crude fiber percentage to 29.01 and the crude protein was increased by 1.67-fold. Statistical optimization determined the optimum factors to be 19.48, 7, 30°C, 2%, and 30% for fermentation time, pH, fermentation temperature, inoculum size, and moisture content, respectively, which decreased the fiber content to 28.1%. The treated OC was utilized alone without any additives as a rooster’s feedstuff for 48 h. Its gross energy and the apparent metabolizable energy were remarkably increased compared with untreated OC. These results demonstrated the ability of Aspergillus oryzae to increase the nutritional value and the digestibility of OC to be used as poultry feed without any additives.

This study aims to evaluate the potential habitat of Astragalus sp. using three different species distribution modeling methods: the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model, the Genetic Algorithm for Rule-Set Production (GARP), and logistic regression. The primary objective was to identify key environmental factors that influence the spatial distribution of Astragalus sp. in the Savar-Abad basin’s rangelands. Vegetation sampling was carried out across diverse vegetation types within the study area, using 2–10 square meter plots to capture a representative sample of plant species distribution. Soil sampling was conducted at varying depths to capture essential soil properties, including physical (clay, gravel, silt, and sand) and chemical factors (organic matter, electrical conductivity, pH, and lime). Soil maps were generated using interpolation techniques to visualize soil variation across the area. The sampling strategy was designed to ensure comprehensive data collection, allowing for robust model training and validation. MaxEnt, which is a presence-only model, outperformed both the GARP and logistic regression models in predicting suitable habitats for Astragalus sp. Results revealed that soil salinity, elevation, and soil acidity significantly influenced species distribution. The findings also suggest that elevation and salinity have the most substantial effects on habitat suitability, while soil texture (clay, silt, and sand) plays a secondary role. These results are valuable for rangeland management, offering insights into areas where Astragalus sp. could thrive or where interventions might be necessary to improve habitat conditions. In terms of management, this study highlights the importance of considering both ecological and environmental factors when planning conservation and restoration activities for rangelands. The ability to predict species distribution can help optimize resource allocation for habitat restoration and enhance biodiversity conservation efforts.

Solanum incanum is a bushy perennial herb which is used for treatment of various ailments in East Africa including stomach pain, toothaches, ulcers, and cardiovascular diseases. However, there is scarcity of data on its safety, and its effect on the physiology of the cardiovascular system. Hence, this study envisaged evaluating the effect of methanol extract of the herb on myocardial action atherosclerotic tendency and safety. Myocardial activity assay involved determination of the heart rate and force of contraction using an isolated rabbit heart in an organ bath and kymograph, while antiatherosclerotic effects were assayed on blood obtained from white Wistar rats fed on high lipid diet where the levels of low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins and total cholesterol were determined. Assays of the toxic effects of the extract were carried out on Swiss albino mice while qualitative phytochemical analyses were carried out using one-way Anova and Tukey as the post hoc test, a value of (p < 0.05) was taken as the limit of significance. The plant extracts exhibited an increase in the force of contraction of the heart and decrease in heart rate. It also caused significant (p < 0.05) reduction in serum low-density lipoproteins and total cholesterol as well as elevation of HDL but no effect on hematological parameters. Phytochemical analyses showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, saponins flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, and phenolics. Hence, the S. incanum root extract may contain compounds with antiatherosclerotic effects that are cardioprotective and therefore a potential source of novel remedies for the ailment.

Aims: This systematic review evaluates how Spirulina supplementation impacts human metabolic syndrome. This review encompasses a broad spectrum of Spirulina supplementation studies, including variations in dosage, trial duration, participants, and the subsequent effects on human metabolic syndrome. Methods: The method involves searching for articles from the Scopus and PubMed databases (up to 2023) to identify relevant studies on Spirulina supplementation. The journal database related to the study was examined using the systematic review approach. Results: Out of 527 articles related to Spirulina supplementation, 13 articles were determined to be suitable for human clinical studies. The treatment is performed at 20 mg to 6 g within 17–360 days. Spirulina contains macro- and micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for health, as well as several bioactives that play a role in improving metabolic syndrome. This seaweed pigment can reduce obesity, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. Its tripeptides lower blood pressure while gamma linoleic acid and glycolipids improve lipid profile. The findings show that Spirulina supplementation improves human metabolic syndrome. It included obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. Conclusion: Spirulina supplementation in humans has a positive effect on metabolic syndrome. It is due to phycocyanin, L-isoleucyl-L-glutaminyl-L-proline (Ile-Gln-Pro), gamma-linolenic acid, and the glycolipid H-b2. However, the form of use, dosage, and treatment should be further researched to determine the right amount for each metabolic syndrome problem.

Acetic acid, a readily available and less toxic alternative to conventional disinfectants, is widely used for cleaning in household settings. This study evaluates the antibacterial efficacy of acetic acid against bacteria isolated from hospital high-touch surfaces, comparing its performance to commonly used disinfectants, including phenol, sodium hypochlorite, and didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC). A total of 120 samples were collected from high-touch surfaces in specialized patient areas. The antibacterial activity of acetic acid, phenol, sodium hypochlorite, and DDAC was assessed using the standard broth microdilution method against the isolated bacterial strains. From the 120 samples, 140 bacterial isolates were obtained. Acetic acid demonstrated strong antibacterial activity, with mean minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.05 ± 0.00 to 0.25 ± 0.06 μL/mL, effectively inhibiting coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CONS), Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Enterococcus species, and Serratia marcescens. Its performance surpassed phenol and DDAC against these strains. Phenol exhibited higher MICs (0.50 ± 0.00 to 0.83 ± 0.10 μL/mL), indicating lower efficacy, while DDAC (0.06 ± 0.00 to 0.17 ± 0.04 μL/mL) and sodium hypochlorite (0.06 ± 0.00 to 0.10 ± 0.00 μL/mL) demonstrated comparable antibacterial effects. Phenol and sodium hypochlorite were found nonsignificant, while DDAC is highly effective at a concentration of 8.5%. Hospital surfaces were found to be contaminated with diverse bacterial strains. Acetic acid demonstrated significant antibacterial efficacy against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, with MICs ranging from 0.05 ± 0.00 to 0.25 ± 0.06 μL/mL, suggesting its potential as an effective, economical, and less toxic alternative to conventional disinfectants.

Water can serve as a source of genetic resistance and act as an amplifier and/or reservoir for genes acquired by human pathogens, which can be released into the environment as pollutants. The interior bay of Puno, part of Lake Titicaca, is a popular tourist attraction, being an active component of the dynamics of the city of Puno. Therefore, the determination of the presence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in water samples from the interior bay of Puno of six collection points was the main objective of this research work. DNA extraction was conducted, followed by the identification and quantification of 16S rRNA and Escherichia coli uidA gene, two ARGs (blaTEM and qacEΔ1), and class 1 integron-integrase gene (intI1) by means of quantitative PCR. The intI1 and qacEΔ1 genes were detected throughout the interior bay of Puno; however, the abundance of the blaTEM gene was comparatively lower. The uidA gene was reported only in some sampled points with < LOQ. These findings should raise concerns regarding the potential risk of their dissemination in Lake Titicaca and their impact on public health.

Medicinal plants have been used for centuries as therapeutic compounds to address various health issues. Their rich phytochemical composition offers diverse bioactive substances with potential health benefits. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of Podophyllum hexandrum root extract by investigating its chemical composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The phytochemical profiling of P. hexandrum root was conducted using GC-MS analysis, which identified 26 compounds in the extract. The ethanolic root extract displayed strong inhibitory effects in the well diffusion assay against all tested microbes, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 64 to 256 μg/mL. Candida albicans exhibited the lowest MIC value of 64 μg/mL. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was compared to standard antioxidant, revealing a dose-dependent response with a notable radical scavenging activity of 59.23% at 100 μg/mL. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated strong cytotoxic effects against the human cancer cell line HT-29, with IC50 values of 38.20 and 32.5 μg/mL for 24 and 48 h. Overall, this study emphasizes the remarkable antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties of P. hexandrum root extract.

Drought stress on soybean crops in some areas becomes more severe due to climate change. The objective of this study was to estimate the drought stress tolerant index (STI) and heterosis level of soybean genotypes derived from crosses of Grobogan (G) and Dering 1 (D) varieties. Field research was conducted in Probolinggo, East Java, Indonesia, during late dry season of 2016. A total of 17 soybean genotypes consisted of 15 lines derived from crosses of G × D varieties, and two check varieties (Grobogan and Dering 1) were tested using a randomized block design and repeated three times. Each genotype was grown in two environments, namely, optimal irrigation condition (irrigation applied in planting until ripening pods) and drought condition in the reproductive phase (irrigation applied in planting until flowering). Results of the study showed that in drought condition, line (G/D) -99-32-14 had the highest seed weight/plant, highest STI, and highest both heterosis and heterobeltiosis value base on seed weight/plant. In drought condition, most of the soybean lines showed positive heterosis values on 100 seed weight. The cross of Dering 1 and Grobogan varieties produced one soybean line (G/D) -99-32-14 which was more tolerant to drought and had seed size (100 seed weight) higher than Dering 1 (the current drought tolerance variety). It is concluded that it is possible to obtain soybean genotype tolerant to drought having higher seed yield and medium seed size than the better parent.

Arsenic (As),iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) pollution in the coastal areas of Bangladesh are severe problems.Irrigation by shallow wells in the agricultural lands is the primary source of these metals. Being a part of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna (GBM) Delta, the coastal accreted land of the Meghna River estuary has experienced a series of erosion and accretion phenomena and deposited a vast amount of sediments along with potentially toxic elements. This study investigated the spatial distribution, source, fate, and potential environmental and human health risks of As, Fe, and Mn from 25 sites across the coastal accreted land in the lower Meghna River estuary, Bay of Bengal. The mean concentration of As, Fe, and Mn in the surface soil samples ranged from 0.1–5.16, 12,000–23,810, and 50.6–1025.12 mg/kg, respectively, where high concentrations of metals were found in the southern belt of the estuary. A high As concentration (> 2 mg/kg) was observed at stations 3-4, 15, and 17. Igeo values of As, Fe, and Mn were estimated as −1.05, −0.50, and −0.55, respectively. The Igeo values analyzed in the sediments were below zero for all the metals, suggesting no contamination from these metals. The pollution load index (PLI) for As, Fe, and Mn was lower than the contamination level, indicating that contamination levels remain below harmful thresholds but require regular monitoring. Potential ecological risk index (PERI) values (1.32–10.75) showed low ecological risks in the studied area. Moreover, “no risk” to “low level” of carcinogenic risk was identified. According to the threshold values, except in the southern belt (stations 3-4, 15, and 17), most of the accreted agricultural land can be considered adequately safe for food production. This study suggests that plant analyses be incorporated into future research; however, it would be more impactful to emphasize bioavailability studies and their relevance to agricultural safety.

Noncanonical autophagy including unconventional protein secretion has been extensively studied. Our work focused on a leaderless IL-1β protein secretion from human macrophage in response to Acanthamoeba castellanii components, Acanthamoeba culture supernatant (CS) and cell lysate (CL), as well as its association with macrophage autophagy. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)–induced THP-1 macrophages were treated with Acanthamoeba components of pathogenic (ATCC50739) and nonpathogenic (ATCC30010) strains in vitro. The data showed that Acanthamoeba treatment resulted in low IL-1β secretion from macrophages. In addition, Acanthamoeba CL of both strains was able to upregulate autophagy-related (Atg) protein 8, an autophagy marker, whereas Acanthamoeba CS downregulated Atg8 expression. We further manipulated autophagy and found that autophagy induction by starvation diminished IL-1β secretion while autophagy inhibition by 3-methyladenine (3MA) increased IL-1β secretion. Interestingly, in the presence of Acanthamoeba components either under starvation or 3MA treatment, IL-1β secretion was significantly reduced. Transcriptional expression of other ATG genes, i.e., ATG6, ATG7, and ATG5, were investigated and showed that their mRNA expression was maintained at the basal level under A. castellanii CS or CL treatment. Inflammasome-related genes, NLRP3 and CASPASE1, were upregulated following A. castellanii 50739 CS treatment but not in A. castellanii 50739 CL-treated condition. However, both conditions were able to increase IL-1β mRNA expression. TEM micrographs revealed that 3MA treatment induced the formation of large vacuoles and accumulation of autophagosome at the edge of THP-1 macrophages. However, the number and size of their structures were declined in the presence of A. castellanii 50739 CS with 3MA. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining demonstrated the association between Atg8/LC3 and IL-1β expression, where downregulation of Atg8 by A. castellanii 50739 CS led to the upregulation of IL-1β. Altogether, the data indicate that Acanthamoeba can manipulate macrophage autophagy, thereby controlling low IL-1β secretion. The expression of autophagy- and inflammasome-related genes also indicates multiple mechanisms in IL-1β secretion in response to Acanthamoeba components. However, further characterization of Atg proteins and investigations into other intracellular pathways or defense mechanisms are needed to fully understand the unconventional secretion of IL-1β in macrophages. This knowledge could eventually lead to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies against Acanthamoeba infection by modulating autophagy or macrophage responses.