Objective:To investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with long COVID symptoms among children and adolescents who have recovered from COVID-19.Methods:This study applied a cross-sectional approach within...Objective:To investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with long COVID symptoms among children and adolescents who have recovered from COVID-19.Methods:This study applied a cross-sectional approach within community settings in a southern province of Vietnam.A structured questionnaire featuring socio-demographic information and common long COVID symptoms was employed.Phi correlation coefficients assessed associations among pairs of long COVID symptoms.Additionally,multivariable logistic regression models were performed to investigate the risk factors of long COVID in recovered COVID-19 children and adolescents.Results:Among 422 participants,39.3%reported long COVID symptoms,with a prevalence of 45.2%(SD=0.5)in children and 22.2%(SD=0.4)in adolescents.Common symptoms reported were cough 34.6%(SD=0.5),fatigue 20.6%(SD=0.4),shortness of breath 10.9%(SD=0.3),and lack of appetite 6.6%(SD=0.3).Concerning risk factors of long COVID,a higher risk was observed among demographic groups,including girls(OR 1.25,95%CI 1.15-1.37;P<0.001,reference:boys),children compared to adolescents(OR 1.24,95%CI 1.12-1.37;P<0.001),overweight individuals(OR 1.14,95%CI 1.02-1.27;P=0.018,reference:healthy weight),and participants without any COVID-19 vaccination(OR 1.36,95%CI 1.20-1.54;P<0.001),or have received only one single dose(OR 1.35,95%CI 1.10-1.64;P=0.004)compared to those who have received two doses.Besides,patients with a COVID-19 treatment duration exceeding two weeks also had a higher risk of long COVID(OR 1.32,95%CI 1.09-1.60;P=0.003)than those who recovered less than seven days.Conclusions:The insights from this study provide crucial guidance for predicting the factors associated with the occurrence of long COVID in pediatric patients,contributing to strategic interventions aimed at mitigating the long COVID risks among children and adolescents in Vietnam.展开更多
This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descr...This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze collected data and significance at p < 0.05 accepted. Corn fufu with huckleberry was the most frequently consumed meal with little or no animal-source protein. Protein and B group vitamins intake of respondents in both communities were below the FAO/WHO recommended values while energy, iron, and vitamins A and C were in excess for most age groups. Adolescents 10 - 19 years and adults 20 years and above failed to meet at least 85% of RNI for calcium.展开更多
Mpox disease is caused by a double-stranded DNA virus, genus Orthopoxvirus of the family Poxviridae. The incubation period is usually 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days while symptoms and signs may persist f...Mpox disease is caused by a double-stranded DNA virus, genus Orthopoxvirus of the family Poxviridae. The incubation period is usually 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days while symptoms and signs may persist for 2 to 5 weeks. Although, the clinical features are usually less severe when compared to the deadly smallpox, the disease can be fatal with case fatality rate between 1% and 10%. In Imo State, Nigeria, there has been a changing epidemiology of the disease in the last 6 years and the frequency and geographic distribution of cases have progressively increased. This study aims to conduct a review of the disease epidemiology between 2017 and 2023 and implications for surveillance in Imo State. Surveillance data from the Surveillance Outbreak Response and Management System (SORMAS) was extracted between January 2017 and December 2023 across the 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Imo State. A line list of 231 suspected cases was downloaded into an excel template and analyzed using SPSS<sup>®</sup> version 20 software. Analysis was done using descriptive statistics and associations were tested using Fischer’s exact at 0.05 level of significance. Of the 231 suspected cases, 57.1% (132) were males, 42.9% (99) were females and the modal age group was between the ages of 0 - 4 (32.5%). Eight (8) LGAs (districts) accounted for 71% (n = 164) of all the suspected cases. 21.2% (49) were confirmed positive, 27 males (55.1%) and 22 females (44.9%) (p > 0.05). Modal age group was 20 - 24 (22.4%, n = 11), 18% (9) were children under 14 years, p > 0.05. Case fatality rate was 8% (n = 4). There was no significant association between mortality and age group. Five (5) LGAs accounted for about 60% (29) of all confirmed cases. These LGAs contribute only 20% to the total population in the State. Only 5.6% and 4% of suspected and confirmed cases, respectively, had knowledge of contact with an infectious source. The study described the epidemiology of Mpox outbreaks between 2017 and 2023 and the findings have significant implications on detection and outbreak response activities.展开更多
This study demonstrates the influence of the Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio in precursor solution on the crystal structural formation,morphology,physical properties,and photocatalytic performance of a Ag_(3)PO_(4)photocataly...This study demonstrates the influence of the Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio in precursor solution on the crystal structural formation,morphology,physical properties,and photocatalytic performance of a Ag_(3)PO_(4)photocatalyst that is fabricated,using a facile precipitation method,from AgNO_(3)and Na2HPO_(4)·12H_(2)O.The material characterizations were carried out using x-ray diffraction(XRD),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy(EDX),Brunauer–Emmett–Teller(BET)surface area,Fourier transform infrared(FTIR)absorption,Raman scattering,x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),UV-vis absorption,and photoluminescence(PL).The results show that Ag_(3)PO_(4)crystallizes better when the excess PO_(4)^(3-)content increases,and the lattice parameters decrease slightly,while the crystal diameter and the particle size increase.This change is also observed in the Raman scattering and FTIR spectra with the increase in the vibration frequency of the[PO_(4)]group.The compression of the[PO_(4)]unit was also confirmed in the XPS spectra with the shift of P 2p peaks toward higher binding energy.The photocatalytic results showed that the samples synthesized from excess PO_(4)^(3-)solution exhibited higher photocatalytic performance compared to the sample with a Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio of 3:1.A sample prepared from the precursor solution with a Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio of 3:1.5 was optimal for RhB decomposition under both visible light and natural sunlight,completely decomposing 10 ppm RhB after 15 minutes of xenon lamp irradiation and after 60 minutes under solar light irradiation.This is attributed to the high crystallinity,small particle size and low electron–hole recombination rate of the sample.展开更多
·AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrastromal transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells(ASCs) in keratoconus patients.·METHODS: This study was conducted on 8 eyes of 8 patients with moderate ...·AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrastromal transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells(ASCs) in keratoconus patients.·METHODS: This study was conducted on 8 eyes of 8 patients with moderate to severe keratoconus. In the patients, ophthalmic assessments including visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp examination, fundoscopy, corneal topography, and confocal microscopy were performed. Autologous stem cells were used. The isolated stem cells were injected into the corneal stroma by using femtosecond laser. Surgical procedure was similar to intracorneal ring implantation. All patients were re-assessed 1, 3, and 6mo after surgery.·RESULTS: The baseline mean visual acuity was 0.48±0.18 and improved to 0.66±0.17 after surger y and final acuity increased by 1.85±0.80 lines(P=0.001).The mean spherical refraction of patients improved 0.34 ± 0.35 D(P=0.039), and the mean cylindrical refraction of patients improved 0.84±0.23 D(P=0.016). The mean flat keratometry decreased 0.78±0.71 D(P=0.017), and the mean steep keratometry decreased 0.59±0.68 D(P=0.023). The mean central corneal thickness of patients improved of 6.29±4.47 μm(P=0.03). The mean keratocyte density at the anterior and middle stroma of cornea increased(P<0.05) but remained stable at the posterior stroma after 6mo. All patients had no complications and their corneas remained transparent. ·CONCLUSION: Intrastromal transplantation of ASCs has positive effects on vision and refractive parameters in most patients with keratoconus. After six months, visual acuity improved moderately, corneal parameters reduced slightly, and stromal keratocytes density increased. This modality is safe, and patients do not have any complications.展开更多
Background: The synergistic mixture of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STCD) aqueous extract is a common drink in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. It is assumed to have various health benefits. Howe...Background: The synergistic mixture of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STCD) aqueous extract is a common drink in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. It is assumed to have various health benefits. However, the synergistic mixture of the content has not been studied scientifically, hence the need to evaluate its effect on the liver and kidney being part of the body’s metabolic organs. Aim: This study evaluated the synergistic mixture of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STCD) aqueous extract in male albino rats. Methods: Acute toxicity LD<sub>50</sub> of STCD was carried out, afterwards, fifteen male albino rats were grouped into three groups with 5 rats in each group;Control, 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg STCD. The rats were administered STCD orally 24 hourly, for 21 days, with feed and water ad libitum. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis of the liver and kidney biomarkers, while the liver and kidney tissues were harvested for histopathological examination using standard laboratory methods. Descriptive statistics were computed and expressed as Mean ± SD. One-way ANOVA and Turkeys test was performed. P value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Acute toxicity LD50 of STCD was observed to be ≥2404.2 mg/kg body weight. An increase in the percentage body weight difference of 8.39% and 2.86% was observed for 200 and 400 mg/kg STCD groups. Also, the liver weight was observed to increase in 400 mg/kg (3.92 ± 1.42) in comparison to the control group (3.48 ± 1.61), a decrease in the kidney weight was observed in all groups administered STCD in comparison to the control group. Administration of STCD at both 200 and 400 mg/kg revealed a decrease in the concentration of the hepatic biomarkers AST, ALT, ALP, TP, Albumin, Total and conjugated bilirubin. The kidney biomarker Urea was observed to decrease in concentration for 200 mg/kg STCD (4.60 ± 1.83) and 400 mg/kg STCD (4.76 ± 0.74) when compared to the control group (6.32 ± 2.74). A decrease in Creatinine was observed in 200 mg/kg (91.80 ± 34.69) and 400 mg/kg (98.60 ± 15.53) in comparison to the control group (117.60 ± 42.88). The histological examination of the liver of rats administered STCD revealed structural normal central vein, hepatocytes and portal tract. The kidney examination revealed normal glomeruli and normal tubule. Conclusion: The findings of this study opine that STCD improved the health of both the liver and kidney as evidenced via the biomarkers and histological examinations of the liver and kidney. This study therefore recommends the intake of STCD at moderate doses for improved liver and kidney function due to its bioactive compounds and nutritional content.展开更多
Background:Rubiadin is a type of anthraquinone compound that can be found in Rubiaceae plants,such as Ronas.Nonetheless,only limited research has been done to explore the potential anticancer properties of rubiadin on...Background:Rubiadin is a type of anthraquinone compound that can be found in Rubiaceae plants,such as Ronas.Nonetheless,only limited research has been done to explore the potential anticancer properties of rubiadin on liver cancer cells.Thus,the objective of the present study is to examine how rubiadin affects the viability of liver cancer cells as well as normal cells.Methods:HepG2 and AGO cell lines were assigned into controls(not exposed to rubiadin)and groups with exposure to rubiadin with 12.5,6.25,3.125,1.56,0.78,and 0.39μg/mL concentrations.3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-y1)-3,5-diphenytetrazoliumromide and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to measure cell viability,and one-way analysis of variance was used for data analysis.Results:The viability of liver cancer cells was significantly reduced when exposed to 12.5,6.25,3.125,and 1.56μg/mL concentrations(P<0.01).An IC50 of 44.73μg/mL was reported.Furthermore,the BAX gene’s relative expression(P<0.05)was significantly increased and the BCL2 gene expression(P<0.05)was significantly reduced.The average ratio of BAX gene expression to BCL2 increased significantly(P<0.01).Conclusion:This research showed that rubiadin decreases cell viability by increasing the ratio of BAX gene expression to BCL2.In addition rubiadin has no cytotoxic effect on normal cells.展开更多
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) share common risk factors and HBV occurs in people with HIV resulting in an increased risk for HIV/HBV co-infection. Globally, hepatitis B virus infection...Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) share common risk factors and HBV occurs in people with HIV resulting in an increased risk for HIV/HBV co-infection. Globally, hepatitis B virus infection is of serious public health causing morbidity and mortality. The increasing incidence of liver diseases caused by HBV is emerging as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among HIV-infected individuals. A clearer knowledge of HBV prevalence in Kogi State is important in order to educate, inform the population and control epidemics through extensive vaccination and treatment programme. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B infection and to evaluate molecularly HBV infection among HIV seropositive individuals. Sera samples were obtained from 218 consented HIV participants and screened for HBsAg using the commercial membrane based rapid qualitative test kit and real-time PCR was performed using Tianlong to assay the virus quantitatively. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on patient’s demographic variables and risk factors for HBV transmission. Overall, 17 of the participants were seropositive to HBsAg. There was a significant difference between the age distribution with (P-value = 0.006) and marital status with (P-value = 0.044). Type of marriage, occupation, place of residence and risk factors associated with HIV and HBV co-infection do not show significant differences. A total of 17 HBsAg positive samples were subjected to viral load analysis, out of which 7 were highly unsuppressed, 5 were suppressed while the remaining 5 were undetectable. This study confirmed a moderately high HIV/HBV co-infection rate (7.8%). The highly unsuppressed viral load obtained from the study is a potential risk for Hepatocellular carcinoma among the study population. Enlightenment programme on routes of virus acquisition with a view to reducing the morbidity and mortality of HIV/HBV co-infection should be intensified.展开更多
Objective:More health workers die from infectious diseases such as tuberculosis(TB)than from any other infectious agent,so the current study is designed to assess TB treatment and preventive measures as they relate to...Objective:More health workers die from infectious diseases such as tuberculosis(TB)than from any other infectious agent,so the current study is designed to assess TB treatment and preventive measures as they relate to nursing care practice.Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 82 nurses from December 2022 to January 2023.The data were collected through a self-developed questionnaire and analyzed by frequency table and analysis of variance(ANOVA)statistics.Results:The researchers found that nurses have sufficient knowledge on Infection Prevention and Control(IPC)policy,but not all nurses follow this management protocol,and the reason for their action is addressed in this study.The management and preventive measures used by the participants were identified as:proper cough etiquette/hygiene,working in a well-ventilated area,use of mask,appropriate disposal of used items and so on was reported.Moreover,this study also discovered that there is a positive correlation between nurses who had received training in IPC policy and their use of airborne preventive measures for TB patients(F=1.87,P=0.002)as well as a positive correlation between the availability of resources and their adherence to the proper use of airborne preventive measures when caring for TB patients(F=1.96,P˂0.001).Conclusion:We proposed infection and control training for nurses and adequate equipment supplies to the TB ward which are required in quick TB diagnosis,and must be carried out on a regular basis by health-care personnel,for efficient nursing practice.Ensuring proper safety equipment and isolation units should be available and assessable for nurses or other health workers showing sign or symptoms of TB.Similarly,it is necessary for government to put in place the control and regulations that will safeguard nurses and mandate them to adopt TB prevention protocols,which will aid in lowering the prevalence of TB among nurses.展开更多
Background:The important roles of liver and kidney in the elimination of injurious chemicals make them highly susceptible to the noxious activities of various toxicants including cobalt chloride(CoCl_(2)).This study w...Background:The important roles of liver and kidney in the elimination of injurious chemicals make them highly susceptible to the noxious activities of various toxicants including cobalt chloride(CoCl_(2)).This study was designed to investigate the role of glycine in the mitigation of hepato-renal toxicities associated with CoCl_(2)exposure.Methods:Forty-two(42)male rats were grouped as Control;(CoCl_(2);300 ppm);CoCl_(2)+Glycine(50 mg/kg);CoCl_(2)+Glycine(100 mg/kg);Glycine(50 mg/kg);and Glycine(100 mg/kg).The markers of hepatic and renal damage,oxidative stress,the antioxidant defense system,histopathology,and immunohistochemical localization of neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin(NGAL)and renal podocin were evaluated.Results:Glycine significantly reduced the markers of oxidative stress(malondialdehyde content and H_(2)O_(2) generation),liver function tests(ALT,AST,and ALP),markers of renal function(creatinine and BUN),and decreased the expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin(NGAL)and podocin compared with rats exposed to CoCl_(2)toxicity without glycine treatment.Histopathology lesions including patchy tubular epithelial necrosis,tubular epithelial degeneration and periglomerular inflammation in renal tissues,and severe portal hepatocellular necrosis,inflammation,and duct hyperplasia were observed in hepatic tissues of rats exposed to CoCl_(2)toxicity,but were mild to absent in glycine-treated rats.Conclusion:The results of this study clearly demonstrate protective effects of glycine against CoCl_(2)-induced tissue injuries and derangement of physiological activities of the hepatic and renal systems in rats.The protective effects are mediated via augmentation of total antioxidant capacity and upregulation of NGAL and podocin expression.展开更多
The anti-freezing strategy of hydrogels and their self-healing structure are often contradictory,it is vital to break through the molecular structure to design and construct hydrogels with intrinsic anti-freezing/self...The anti-freezing strategy of hydrogels and their self-healing structure are often contradictory,it is vital to break through the molecular structure to design and construct hydrogels with intrinsic anti-freezing/self-healing for meeting the rapid development of flexible and wearable devices in diverse service conditions.Herein,we design a new hydrogel electrolyte(AF/SH-Hydrogel)with intrinsic anti-freezing/self-healing capabilities by introducing ethylene glycol molecules,dynamic chemical bonding(disulfide bond),and supramolecular interaction(multi-hydrogen bond)into the polyacrylamide molecular chain.Thanks to the exceptional freeze resistance(84%capacity retention at-20℃)and intrinsic self-healing capabilities(95%capacity retention after 5 cutting/self-healing cycles),the obtained AF/SH-Hydrogel makes the zinc||manganese dioxide cell an economically feasible battery for the state-of-the-art applications.The Zn||AF/SH-Hydrogel||MnO_(2)device offers a near-theoretical specific capacity of 285 m A h g^(-1)at 0.1 A g^(-1)(Coulombic efficiency≈100%),as well as good self-healing capability and mechanical flexibility in an ice bath.This work provides insight that can be utilized to develop multifunctional hydrogel electrolytes for application in next generation of self-healable and freeze-resistance smart aqueous energy storage devices.展开更多
One goal in the face of drought stress conditions is to increase growth and yield through the reduction of negative effects of stress. Vermicompost can play an effective role in plant growth and development and in red...One goal in the face of drought stress conditions is to increase growth and yield through the reduction of negative effects of stress. Vermicompost can play an effective role in plant growth and development and in reducing harmful effects of various environmental stresses on plants due to its porous structure, high water storage capacity, having hormone-like substances, plant growth regulators, and high levels of macro and micro nutrients. This study considered the physiological, biochemical, and photosynthetic responses of the chickpea to different combinations of vermicompost and water stress in a greenhouse environment. Two factors were involved, addition of vermicompost to soil at four ratios: control(100 wt%(weight percentage) soil); 10 wt% vermicompost+90% soil; 20 wt% vermicompost+80 wt% soil; 30 wt% vermicompost+70 wt% soil weight percentage, and treatment of water stress at three levels including 75, 50, and 25% of field capacity. The results showed that vermicompost had a significant effect on all traits under stress and non-stress conditions. Application of vermicompost in soil, especially at the levels of 20 and 30 wt% significantly increased all studied traits under non-stress conditions. Under moderate stress conditions, vermicompost at 30 wt% treatment resulted in a significant increase in the photosynthetic pigments, CO_2 assimilation rate, internal leaf CO_2 concentration, transpiration, the maximal quantum yield of photosystem II(PSII) photochemistry(F_v/F_m), concentrations of Ca and K in root and leaf tissues, proline and soluble protein contents in root tissues. Peroxidase(POX) and catalase(CAT) enzyme activities decreased significantly with increasing proportions of vermicompost, but the activity of superoxide dismutase was not significantly different. In conclusion, the above results showed that vermicompost fertilizer had a positive effect on physiological, biochemical, and photosynthetic responses of chickpea under non-stress and moderate stress conditions, but no positive effect was determined under severe water stress.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract of Vernonia amygdalina (V.A).Methods:Inflammatory response was induced by topical application of croton oil dissolved in suitable vehicle on the r...Objective:To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract of Vernonia amygdalina (V.A).Methods:Inflammatory response was induced by topical application of croton oil dissolved in suitable vehicle on the rat ear.After 6 hrs,cutting out the ear quantitated the response.The cut ear was weighed and the increase in weight relative to control group was evaluated.Results:When co-applied with croton oil to the rat ear extract of V.A.produced a reduction in the inflammatory response when croton oil alone was applied to the rat ear.The extract produced(69.1 +2.0)%reduction of the inflammatory response produced by croton oil alone,lower than the reduction of the inflammatory response produced by acetyl salicylic acid[(71.1±2.0)%].Conclusions:This finding suggests that extract of V.A.exhibits antiinflammatory activity and may explain the usefulness of the leaves of this plant in the treatment of inflammatory disease conditions by traditional healers.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the potential effects of chelidonine, the main alkaloid of Chelidonium majus, on telomerase activity and its regulation in HepG2 cells. METHODS: Cytotoxicity of chelidonine for HepG2 cells was dete...AIM: To investigate the potential effects of chelidonine, the main alkaloid of Chelidonium majus, on telomerase activity and its regulation in HepG2 cells. METHODS: Cytotoxicity of chelidonine for HepG2 cells was determined by neutral red assay. A modified polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based telomerase repeat amplification protocol was used to estimate relative telomerase activity in chelidonine-treated cells in comparison with the untreated control cells. Relative expression level of the catalytic subunit of telomerase (hTERT) gene and P-glycoprotein (pgp) were estimated using semi-quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). Cell senescence in treated cells was demonstrated using a β-galactosidase test. RESULTS: Cytotoxicity of chelidonine in HepG2 cells was not dose-dependent and tended to reach plateau immediately after the living cells were reduced in number to slightly higher than 50%. However, 12 μmol/L concentration of chelidonine was considered as LD50, where the maximal attainable effects were realized. Real-time RT-PCR data showed that the expression of pgp increased three-fold in chelidonine treated HepG2 cells in comparison with the untreated controls. Morphologically, treated HepG2 cells showed apoptotic features after 24 h and a small fraction of cells appeared with single blister cell death. The relative expressionlevel of Bcl-2 dropped to less than 50% of control cells at a sub-apoptotic concentration of chelidonine and subsequently increased to higher than 120% at LD50. Telomerase activity was reduced considerably after administration of very low doses of chelidonine, whereas higher concentrations of chelidonine did not remarkably enhance the effect. Real-time RT-PCR experiments indicated a drastic decrease in expression level of hTERT subunit of telomerase under treatment with chelidonine. Repeated treatment of cells with very low doses of chelidonine caused a decline in growth rate by 4 wk and many of the cells appeared to be aged with large volume and dark staining in the β-galactosidase assay. CONCLUSION: Chelidonine reduces telomerase activity through down-regulation of hTERT expression. Senescence induction might not be directly caused by reducing telomerase activity as it occurs after a few population doublings.展开更多
We investigated the floristic composition of the Hyrcanian forests and the related forest-steppe ecotone in Northern Iran by using two long ecological transects, from lowland to upper mountain areas. The study was con...We investigated the floristic composition of the Hyrcanian forests and the related forest-steppe ecotone in Northern Iran by using two long ecological transects, from lowland to upper mountain areas. The study was conducted during 2008 and 2009 and yielded the identification of 395 plant taxa belonging to 233 genera and 78 families. Dicots with 300 taxa were the richest groups of the flora, followed by monocots with 75 taxa, pteridophytes with 18 species,and gymnosperms with two species. The largest families were Asteraceae(33 taxa); Rosaceae(32 taxa); and Poaceae(30 taxa), and the most diverse genera included Carex(15 taxa); Alchemilla(7 taxa); and Poa, Geranium and Acer(6 taxa each). Hemicryptophytes were the most dominant life forms in the area(40 %); followed by geophytes(31.4 %); phanerophytes(15.4 %); therophytes(11.4 %); and chamaephytes(1.8 %). Phytogeographically,Euro-Siberian/Irano-Turanian elements(86 taxa, 21.8 %)and Euro-Siberian elements(85 taxa, 21.5 %) were the most common chorotypes in the area. Out of 395 taxa, 66taxa(16.7 %) were endemics and subendemics in Iran, of which 26 taxa were exclusively endemics of Iran.According to the IUCN Red List Categories, 48 threatened plant taxa were found in the study area. Plant diversity, life form, and chorotypes in the current study were compared with similar transect studies in other areas of the Hyrcanian forests and in different altitudinal belts, using S?renson similarity indices. Floristic composition of the surveyed transects demonstrated almost 50 % similarity between them.展开更多
Objective: To examine the chemical component of the essential oil of Eremostachys laciniata and evaluate antioxidant activity of the extract.Methods: The hydrodistillated essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatograp...Objective: To examine the chemical component of the essential oil of Eremostachys laciniata and evaluate antioxidant activity of the extract.Methods: The hydrodistillated essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-flame ionization detector and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Also, antioxidant activity, total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric method, respectively.Results: The major components of the essential oil were p-cymene(21.64%), linalool(17.93%), and a-pinene(11.42%). Also, the extract obtained by methanol showed a good antioxidant activity. The same extract also exhibited high phenolic and flavonoid contents.Conclusions: These results indicate that Eremostachys laciniata can be used in dietary applications with a potential to reduce oxidative stress.展开更多
Recently,nanoparticles have been used along with surfactants for enhancing oil recovery.Although the recent studies show that oil recovery is enhanced using nanoparticle/surfactant solutions,some effective parameters ...Recently,nanoparticles have been used along with surfactants for enhancing oil recovery.Although the recent studies show that oil recovery is enhanced using nanoparticle/surfactant solutions,some effective parameters and mechanisms involved in the oil recovery have not yet been investigated.Therefore,the temperature effect on the stability of nanoparticle/surfactant solutions and ultimate oil recovery has been studied in this work,and the optimal concentrations of both SiO2 nanoparticle and surfactant(sodium dodecyl sulfate)have been determined by the Central Composite Design method.In addition,the simultaneous effects of parameters and their interactions have been investigated.Study of the stability of the injected solutions indicates that the nanoparticle concentration is the most important factor affecting the solution stability.The surfactant makes the solution more stable if used in appropriate concentrations below the CMC.According to the micromodel flooding results,the most effective factor for enhancing oil recovery is temperature compared to the nanoparticle and surfactant concentrations.Therefore,in floodings with higher porous medium temperature,the oil viscosity reduction is considerable,and more oil is recovered.In addition,the surfactant concentration plays a more effective role in reservoirs with higher temperatures.In other words,at a surfactant concentration of 250 ppm,the ultimate oil recovery is improved about 20%with a temperature increase of 20°C.However,when the surfactant concentration is equal to 750 ppm,the temperature increase enhances the ultimate oil recovery by only about 7%.Finally,the nanoparticle and surfactant optimum concentrations determined by Design-Expert software were equal to 46 and 159 ppm,respectively.It is worthy to note that obtained results are validated by the confirmation test.展开更多
In order to study the influence of the shell effects on the formation and fission of superheavy elements, we applied multidimensional Langevin equations. The evaporation residue cross sections have been calculated for...In order to study the influence of the shell effects on the formation and fission of superheavy elements, we applied multidimensional Langevin equations. The evaporation residue cross sections have been calculated for 3n, 4n, and 5n evaporation channels using three(K = 0)-and four(K ≠ 0)-dimensional Langevin equations. Calculations were done for ^(48)Ca + ^(238)U and ^(48)Ca + ^(244)Pu hot fusion reactions with 3n, An evaporation channels and ^(70)Zn+ ^(208)Pb, and ^(54)Cr + ^(209)Bi cold fusion reactions with In and 2n evaporation channels. The calculations were performed for An and 5n evaporation channels of the ^(26)Mg+ ^(238)U reaction, as well. Our results show that with increasing dimension of Langevin equations the residue cross section increases, whereas the fission cross section decreases. The obtained results with four-dimensional Langevin and considering shell effects are in better agreement with experimental data in comparison with three-and four-dimensional Langevin equations without shell effects.展开更多
Photofission fragments mass yield for^(232)Th,^(234;238) U,^(237) Np, and^(239;240;242) Pu isotopes are investigated.The calculations are done using a developed approach based on Gorodisskiy's phenomenological for...Photofission fragments mass yield for^(232)Th,^(234;238) U,^(237) Np, and^(239;240;242) Pu isotopes are investigated.The calculations are done using a developed approach based on Gorodisskiy's phenomenological formalism. The Gorodisskiy's method is developed to be applied for the neutron-induced fission. Here we revised it for application to photofission. The effect of emitted neutron prior to fission on the fission fragment mass yields has also been studied. The peak-to-valley ratio is extracted for the240 Pu isotope as a function of energy. Obtained results of the present formalism are compared with the available experimental data. Satisfactory agreement is achieved between the results of present approach and the experimental data.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the consequence of oral administration of Calliandra portoricensis(C. portoricensis) leaf extract on the stomach and pancreas in Swiss albino mice.Methods:Three, groups of mice(B,C and D) were tr...Objective:To evaluate the consequence of oral administration of Calliandra portoricensis(C. portoricensis) leaf extract on the stomach and pancreas in Swiss albino mice.Methods:Three, groups of mice(B,C and D) were treated with 4 mg/kg of C.portoricensis extract.Croup A was the control and received an equivalent volume of distilled water.Group B received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 7 days.Croup C received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 14 days,and Croup D received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 28 days.At different stages in the study,the mice were sacrificed and the stomach and pancreas were excised and fixed in 10%formol saline for histological analysis.Results:The result showed a normal microstructural outline in groups B and C as compared with the control.However,animals in group D showed disorganization of the mucosa and discontinuation of epithelial lining of the stomach while the islets of Langerans in the pancreas were at various degree of degeneration as compared with the control mice. Conclusions:The present finding suggests that chronic administration(28 days as seen in this study) of C.portoricensis leaf extract may inhibit the proper function of the stomach and pancreas.展开更多
文摘Objective:To investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with long COVID symptoms among children and adolescents who have recovered from COVID-19.Methods:This study applied a cross-sectional approach within community settings in a southern province of Vietnam.A structured questionnaire featuring socio-demographic information and common long COVID symptoms was employed.Phi correlation coefficients assessed associations among pairs of long COVID symptoms.Additionally,multivariable logistic regression models were performed to investigate the risk factors of long COVID in recovered COVID-19 children and adolescents.Results:Among 422 participants,39.3%reported long COVID symptoms,with a prevalence of 45.2%(SD=0.5)in children and 22.2%(SD=0.4)in adolescents.Common symptoms reported were cough 34.6%(SD=0.5),fatigue 20.6%(SD=0.4),shortness of breath 10.9%(SD=0.3),and lack of appetite 6.6%(SD=0.3).Concerning risk factors of long COVID,a higher risk was observed among demographic groups,including girls(OR 1.25,95%CI 1.15-1.37;P<0.001,reference:boys),children compared to adolescents(OR 1.24,95%CI 1.12-1.37;P<0.001),overweight individuals(OR 1.14,95%CI 1.02-1.27;P=0.018,reference:healthy weight),and participants without any COVID-19 vaccination(OR 1.36,95%CI 1.20-1.54;P<0.001),or have received only one single dose(OR 1.35,95%CI 1.10-1.64;P=0.004)compared to those who have received two doses.Besides,patients with a COVID-19 treatment duration exceeding two weeks also had a higher risk of long COVID(OR 1.32,95%CI 1.09-1.60;P=0.003)than those who recovered less than seven days.Conclusions:The insights from this study provide crucial guidance for predicting the factors associated with the occurrence of long COVID in pediatric patients,contributing to strategic interventions aimed at mitigating the long COVID risks among children and adolescents in Vietnam.
文摘This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze collected data and significance at p < 0.05 accepted. Corn fufu with huckleberry was the most frequently consumed meal with little or no animal-source protein. Protein and B group vitamins intake of respondents in both communities were below the FAO/WHO recommended values while energy, iron, and vitamins A and C were in excess for most age groups. Adolescents 10 - 19 years and adults 20 years and above failed to meet at least 85% of RNI for calcium.
文摘Mpox disease is caused by a double-stranded DNA virus, genus Orthopoxvirus of the family Poxviridae. The incubation period is usually 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days while symptoms and signs may persist for 2 to 5 weeks. Although, the clinical features are usually less severe when compared to the deadly smallpox, the disease can be fatal with case fatality rate between 1% and 10%. In Imo State, Nigeria, there has been a changing epidemiology of the disease in the last 6 years and the frequency and geographic distribution of cases have progressively increased. This study aims to conduct a review of the disease epidemiology between 2017 and 2023 and implications for surveillance in Imo State. Surveillance data from the Surveillance Outbreak Response and Management System (SORMAS) was extracted between January 2017 and December 2023 across the 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Imo State. A line list of 231 suspected cases was downloaded into an excel template and analyzed using SPSS<sup>®</sup> version 20 software. Analysis was done using descriptive statistics and associations were tested using Fischer’s exact at 0.05 level of significance. Of the 231 suspected cases, 57.1% (132) were males, 42.9% (99) were females and the modal age group was between the ages of 0 - 4 (32.5%). Eight (8) LGAs (districts) accounted for 71% (n = 164) of all the suspected cases. 21.2% (49) were confirmed positive, 27 males (55.1%) and 22 females (44.9%) (p > 0.05). Modal age group was 20 - 24 (22.4%, n = 11), 18% (9) were children under 14 years, p > 0.05. Case fatality rate was 8% (n = 4). There was no significant association between mortality and age group. Five (5) LGAs accounted for about 60% (29) of all confirmed cases. These LGAs contribute only 20% to the total population in the State. Only 5.6% and 4% of suspected and confirmed cases, respectively, had knowledge of contact with an infectious source. The study described the epidemiology of Mpox outbreaks between 2017 and 2023 and the findings have significant implications on detection and outbreak response activities.
基金Project supported by a scientific and technological project at the level of Ministry of Education and Training(Grant No.B2020-MDA-11).
文摘This study demonstrates the influence of the Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio in precursor solution on the crystal structural formation,morphology,physical properties,and photocatalytic performance of a Ag_(3)PO_(4)photocatalyst that is fabricated,using a facile precipitation method,from AgNO_(3)and Na2HPO_(4)·12H_(2)O.The material characterizations were carried out using x-ray diffraction(XRD),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy(EDX),Brunauer–Emmett–Teller(BET)surface area,Fourier transform infrared(FTIR)absorption,Raman scattering,x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),UV-vis absorption,and photoluminescence(PL).The results show that Ag_(3)PO_(4)crystallizes better when the excess PO_(4)^(3-)content increases,and the lattice parameters decrease slightly,while the crystal diameter and the particle size increase.This change is also observed in the Raman scattering and FTIR spectra with the increase in the vibration frequency of the[PO_(4)]group.The compression of the[PO_(4)]unit was also confirmed in the XPS spectra with the shift of P 2p peaks toward higher binding energy.The photocatalytic results showed that the samples synthesized from excess PO_(4)^(3-)solution exhibited higher photocatalytic performance compared to the sample with a Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio of 3:1.A sample prepared from the precursor solution with a Ag^(+)/PO_(4)^(3-)ratio of 3:1.5 was optimal for RhB decomposition under both visible light and natural sunlight,completely decomposing 10 ppm RhB after 15 minutes of xenon lamp irradiation and after 60 minutes under solar light irradiation.This is attributed to the high crystallinity,small particle size and low electron–hole recombination rate of the sample.
基金the project with number IR.SBMU.RETECH.REC.1399.024 from Student Research Committee,Department of Optometry,Faculty of Rehabilitation,Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences,Tehran,Iranthe“Student Research Committee”and“Research&Technology Chancellor”in Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences for their financial support of this study。
文摘·AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrastromal transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells(ASCs) in keratoconus patients.·METHODS: This study was conducted on 8 eyes of 8 patients with moderate to severe keratoconus. In the patients, ophthalmic assessments including visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp examination, fundoscopy, corneal topography, and confocal microscopy were performed. Autologous stem cells were used. The isolated stem cells were injected into the corneal stroma by using femtosecond laser. Surgical procedure was similar to intracorneal ring implantation. All patients were re-assessed 1, 3, and 6mo after surgery.·RESULTS: The baseline mean visual acuity was 0.48±0.18 and improved to 0.66±0.17 after surger y and final acuity increased by 1.85±0.80 lines(P=0.001).The mean spherical refraction of patients improved 0.34 ± 0.35 D(P=0.039), and the mean cylindrical refraction of patients improved 0.84±0.23 D(P=0.016). The mean flat keratometry decreased 0.78±0.71 D(P=0.017), and the mean steep keratometry decreased 0.59±0.68 D(P=0.023). The mean central corneal thickness of patients improved of 6.29±4.47 μm(P=0.03). The mean keratocyte density at the anterior and middle stroma of cornea increased(P<0.05) but remained stable at the posterior stroma after 6mo. All patients had no complications and their corneas remained transparent. ·CONCLUSION: Intrastromal transplantation of ASCs has positive effects on vision and refractive parameters in most patients with keratoconus. After six months, visual acuity improved moderately, corneal parameters reduced slightly, and stromal keratocytes density increased. This modality is safe, and patients do not have any complications.
文摘Background: The synergistic mixture of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STCD) aqueous extract is a common drink in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. It is assumed to have various health benefits. However, the synergistic mixture of the content has not been studied scientifically, hence the need to evaluate its effect on the liver and kidney being part of the body’s metabolic organs. Aim: This study evaluated the synergistic mixture of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STCD) aqueous extract in male albino rats. Methods: Acute toxicity LD<sub>50</sub> of STCD was carried out, afterwards, fifteen male albino rats were grouped into three groups with 5 rats in each group;Control, 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg STCD. The rats were administered STCD orally 24 hourly, for 21 days, with feed and water ad libitum. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis of the liver and kidney biomarkers, while the liver and kidney tissues were harvested for histopathological examination using standard laboratory methods. Descriptive statistics were computed and expressed as Mean ± SD. One-way ANOVA and Turkeys test was performed. P value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Acute toxicity LD50 of STCD was observed to be ≥2404.2 mg/kg body weight. An increase in the percentage body weight difference of 8.39% and 2.86% was observed for 200 and 400 mg/kg STCD groups. Also, the liver weight was observed to increase in 400 mg/kg (3.92 ± 1.42) in comparison to the control group (3.48 ± 1.61), a decrease in the kidney weight was observed in all groups administered STCD in comparison to the control group. Administration of STCD at both 200 and 400 mg/kg revealed a decrease in the concentration of the hepatic biomarkers AST, ALT, ALP, TP, Albumin, Total and conjugated bilirubin. The kidney biomarker Urea was observed to decrease in concentration for 200 mg/kg STCD (4.60 ± 1.83) and 400 mg/kg STCD (4.76 ± 0.74) when compared to the control group (6.32 ± 2.74). A decrease in Creatinine was observed in 200 mg/kg (91.80 ± 34.69) and 400 mg/kg (98.60 ± 15.53) in comparison to the control group (117.60 ± 42.88). The histological examination of the liver of rats administered STCD revealed structural normal central vein, hepatocytes and portal tract. The kidney examination revealed normal glomeruli and normal tubule. Conclusion: The findings of this study opine that STCD improved the health of both the liver and kidney as evidenced via the biomarkers and histological examinations of the liver and kidney. This study therefore recommends the intake of STCD at moderate doses for improved liver and kidney function due to its bioactive compounds and nutritional content.
文摘Background:Rubiadin is a type of anthraquinone compound that can be found in Rubiaceae plants,such as Ronas.Nonetheless,only limited research has been done to explore the potential anticancer properties of rubiadin on liver cancer cells.Thus,the objective of the present study is to examine how rubiadin affects the viability of liver cancer cells as well as normal cells.Methods:HepG2 and AGO cell lines were assigned into controls(not exposed to rubiadin)and groups with exposure to rubiadin with 12.5,6.25,3.125,1.56,0.78,and 0.39μg/mL concentrations.3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-y1)-3,5-diphenytetrazoliumromide and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to measure cell viability,and one-way analysis of variance was used for data analysis.Results:The viability of liver cancer cells was significantly reduced when exposed to 12.5,6.25,3.125,and 1.56μg/mL concentrations(P<0.01).An IC50 of 44.73μg/mL was reported.Furthermore,the BAX gene’s relative expression(P<0.05)was significantly increased and the BCL2 gene expression(P<0.05)was significantly reduced.The average ratio of BAX gene expression to BCL2 increased significantly(P<0.01).Conclusion:This research showed that rubiadin decreases cell viability by increasing the ratio of BAX gene expression to BCL2.In addition rubiadin has no cytotoxic effect on normal cells.
文摘Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) share common risk factors and HBV occurs in people with HIV resulting in an increased risk for HIV/HBV co-infection. Globally, hepatitis B virus infection is of serious public health causing morbidity and mortality. The increasing incidence of liver diseases caused by HBV is emerging as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among HIV-infected individuals. A clearer knowledge of HBV prevalence in Kogi State is important in order to educate, inform the population and control epidemics through extensive vaccination and treatment programme. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B infection and to evaluate molecularly HBV infection among HIV seropositive individuals. Sera samples were obtained from 218 consented HIV participants and screened for HBsAg using the commercial membrane based rapid qualitative test kit and real-time PCR was performed using Tianlong to assay the virus quantitatively. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on patient’s demographic variables and risk factors for HBV transmission. Overall, 17 of the participants were seropositive to HBsAg. There was a significant difference between the age distribution with (P-value = 0.006) and marital status with (P-value = 0.044). Type of marriage, occupation, place of residence and risk factors associated with HIV and HBV co-infection do not show significant differences. A total of 17 HBsAg positive samples were subjected to viral load analysis, out of which 7 were highly unsuppressed, 5 were suppressed while the remaining 5 were undetectable. This study confirmed a moderately high HIV/HBV co-infection rate (7.8%). The highly unsuppressed viral load obtained from the study is a potential risk for Hepatocellular carcinoma among the study population. Enlightenment programme on routes of virus acquisition with a view to reducing the morbidity and mortality of HIV/HBV co-infection should be intensified.
文摘Objective:More health workers die from infectious diseases such as tuberculosis(TB)than from any other infectious agent,so the current study is designed to assess TB treatment and preventive measures as they relate to nursing care practice.Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 82 nurses from December 2022 to January 2023.The data were collected through a self-developed questionnaire and analyzed by frequency table and analysis of variance(ANOVA)statistics.Results:The researchers found that nurses have sufficient knowledge on Infection Prevention and Control(IPC)policy,but not all nurses follow this management protocol,and the reason for their action is addressed in this study.The management and preventive measures used by the participants were identified as:proper cough etiquette/hygiene,working in a well-ventilated area,use of mask,appropriate disposal of used items and so on was reported.Moreover,this study also discovered that there is a positive correlation between nurses who had received training in IPC policy and their use of airborne preventive measures for TB patients(F=1.87,P=0.002)as well as a positive correlation between the availability of resources and their adherence to the proper use of airborne preventive measures when caring for TB patients(F=1.96,P˂0.001).Conclusion:We proposed infection and control training for nurses and adequate equipment supplies to the TB ward which are required in quick TB diagnosis,and must be carried out on a regular basis by health-care personnel,for efficient nursing practice.Ensuring proper safety equipment and isolation units should be available and assessable for nurses or other health workers showing sign or symptoms of TB.Similarly,it is necessary for government to put in place the control and regulations that will safeguard nurses and mandate them to adopt TB prevention protocols,which will aid in lowering the prevalence of TB among nurses.
文摘Background:The important roles of liver and kidney in the elimination of injurious chemicals make them highly susceptible to the noxious activities of various toxicants including cobalt chloride(CoCl_(2)).This study was designed to investigate the role of glycine in the mitigation of hepato-renal toxicities associated with CoCl_(2)exposure.Methods:Forty-two(42)male rats were grouped as Control;(CoCl_(2);300 ppm);CoCl_(2)+Glycine(50 mg/kg);CoCl_(2)+Glycine(100 mg/kg);Glycine(50 mg/kg);and Glycine(100 mg/kg).The markers of hepatic and renal damage,oxidative stress,the antioxidant defense system,histopathology,and immunohistochemical localization of neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin(NGAL)and renal podocin were evaluated.Results:Glycine significantly reduced the markers of oxidative stress(malondialdehyde content and H_(2)O_(2) generation),liver function tests(ALT,AST,and ALP),markers of renal function(creatinine and BUN),and decreased the expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin(NGAL)and podocin compared with rats exposed to CoCl_(2)toxicity without glycine treatment.Histopathology lesions including patchy tubular epithelial necrosis,tubular epithelial degeneration and periglomerular inflammation in renal tissues,and severe portal hepatocellular necrosis,inflammation,and duct hyperplasia were observed in hepatic tissues of rats exposed to CoCl_(2)toxicity,but were mild to absent in glycine-treated rats.Conclusion:The results of this study clearly demonstrate protective effects of glycine against CoCl_(2)-induced tissue injuries and derangement of physiological activities of the hepatic and renal systems in rats.The protective effects are mediated via augmentation of total antioxidant capacity and upregulation of NGAL and podocin expression.
基金supported by the link project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52002052 and 22209020)the Key Research and Development Project of Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province(2022YFSY0004)+2 种基金the Opening project of the State Key Laboratory of New Textile Materials and Advanced Processing Technology(FZ2021009)the Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(2023NSFSC0995)the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province(2022JJ30227)。
文摘The anti-freezing strategy of hydrogels and their self-healing structure are often contradictory,it is vital to break through the molecular structure to design and construct hydrogels with intrinsic anti-freezing/self-healing for meeting the rapid development of flexible and wearable devices in diverse service conditions.Herein,we design a new hydrogel electrolyte(AF/SH-Hydrogel)with intrinsic anti-freezing/self-healing capabilities by introducing ethylene glycol molecules,dynamic chemical bonding(disulfide bond),and supramolecular interaction(multi-hydrogen bond)into the polyacrylamide molecular chain.Thanks to the exceptional freeze resistance(84%capacity retention at-20℃)and intrinsic self-healing capabilities(95%capacity retention after 5 cutting/self-healing cycles),the obtained AF/SH-Hydrogel makes the zinc||manganese dioxide cell an economically feasible battery for the state-of-the-art applications.The Zn||AF/SH-Hydrogel||MnO_(2)device offers a near-theoretical specific capacity of 285 m A h g^(-1)at 0.1 A g^(-1)(Coulombic efficiency≈100%),as well as good self-healing capability and mechanical flexibility in an ice bath.This work provides insight that can be utilized to develop multifunctional hydrogel electrolytes for application in next generation of self-healable and freeze-resistance smart aqueous energy storage devices.
文摘One goal in the face of drought stress conditions is to increase growth and yield through the reduction of negative effects of stress. Vermicompost can play an effective role in plant growth and development and in reducing harmful effects of various environmental stresses on plants due to its porous structure, high water storage capacity, having hormone-like substances, plant growth regulators, and high levels of macro and micro nutrients. This study considered the physiological, biochemical, and photosynthetic responses of the chickpea to different combinations of vermicompost and water stress in a greenhouse environment. Two factors were involved, addition of vermicompost to soil at four ratios: control(100 wt%(weight percentage) soil); 10 wt% vermicompost+90% soil; 20 wt% vermicompost+80 wt% soil; 30 wt% vermicompost+70 wt% soil weight percentage, and treatment of water stress at three levels including 75, 50, and 25% of field capacity. The results showed that vermicompost had a significant effect on all traits under stress and non-stress conditions. Application of vermicompost in soil, especially at the levels of 20 and 30 wt% significantly increased all studied traits under non-stress conditions. Under moderate stress conditions, vermicompost at 30 wt% treatment resulted in a significant increase in the photosynthetic pigments, CO_2 assimilation rate, internal leaf CO_2 concentration, transpiration, the maximal quantum yield of photosystem II(PSII) photochemistry(F_v/F_m), concentrations of Ca and K in root and leaf tissues, proline and soluble protein contents in root tissues. Peroxidase(POX) and catalase(CAT) enzyme activities decreased significantly with increasing proportions of vermicompost, but the activity of superoxide dismutase was not significantly different. In conclusion, the above results showed that vermicompost fertilizer had a positive effect on physiological, biochemical, and photosynthetic responses of chickpea under non-stress and moderate stress conditions, but no positive effect was determined under severe water stress.
文摘Objective:To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract of Vernonia amygdalina (V.A).Methods:Inflammatory response was induced by topical application of croton oil dissolved in suitable vehicle on the rat ear.After 6 hrs,cutting out the ear quantitated the response.The cut ear was weighed and the increase in weight relative to control group was evaluated.Results:When co-applied with croton oil to the rat ear extract of V.A.produced a reduction in the inflammatory response when croton oil alone was applied to the rat ear.The extract produced(69.1 +2.0)%reduction of the inflammatory response produced by croton oil alone,lower than the reduction of the inflammatory response produced by acetyl salicylic acid[(71.1±2.0)%].Conclusions:This finding suggests that extract of V.A.exhibits antiinflammatory activity and may explain the usefulness of the leaves of this plant in the treatment of inflammatory disease conditions by traditional healers.
文摘AIM: To investigate the potential effects of chelidonine, the main alkaloid of Chelidonium majus, on telomerase activity and its regulation in HepG2 cells. METHODS: Cytotoxicity of chelidonine for HepG2 cells was determined by neutral red assay. A modified polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based telomerase repeat amplification protocol was used to estimate relative telomerase activity in chelidonine-treated cells in comparison with the untreated control cells. Relative expression level of the catalytic subunit of telomerase (hTERT) gene and P-glycoprotein (pgp) were estimated using semi-quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). Cell senescence in treated cells was demonstrated using a β-galactosidase test. RESULTS: Cytotoxicity of chelidonine in HepG2 cells was not dose-dependent and tended to reach plateau immediately after the living cells were reduced in number to slightly higher than 50%. However, 12 μmol/L concentration of chelidonine was considered as LD50, where the maximal attainable effects were realized. Real-time RT-PCR data showed that the expression of pgp increased three-fold in chelidonine treated HepG2 cells in comparison with the untreated controls. Morphologically, treated HepG2 cells showed apoptotic features after 24 h and a small fraction of cells appeared with single blister cell death. The relative expressionlevel of Bcl-2 dropped to less than 50% of control cells at a sub-apoptotic concentration of chelidonine and subsequently increased to higher than 120% at LD50. Telomerase activity was reduced considerably after administration of very low doses of chelidonine, whereas higher concentrations of chelidonine did not remarkably enhance the effect. Real-time RT-PCR experiments indicated a drastic decrease in expression level of hTERT subunit of telomerase under treatment with chelidonine. Repeated treatment of cells with very low doses of chelidonine caused a decline in growth rate by 4 wk and many of the cells appeared to be aged with large volume and dark staining in the β-galactosidase assay. CONCLUSION: Chelidonine reduces telomerase activity through down-regulation of hTERT expression. Senescence induction might not be directly caused by reducing telomerase activity as it occurs after a few population doublings.
文摘We investigated the floristic composition of the Hyrcanian forests and the related forest-steppe ecotone in Northern Iran by using two long ecological transects, from lowland to upper mountain areas. The study was conducted during 2008 and 2009 and yielded the identification of 395 plant taxa belonging to 233 genera and 78 families. Dicots with 300 taxa were the richest groups of the flora, followed by monocots with 75 taxa, pteridophytes with 18 species,and gymnosperms with two species. The largest families were Asteraceae(33 taxa); Rosaceae(32 taxa); and Poaceae(30 taxa), and the most diverse genera included Carex(15 taxa); Alchemilla(7 taxa); and Poa, Geranium and Acer(6 taxa each). Hemicryptophytes were the most dominant life forms in the area(40 %); followed by geophytes(31.4 %); phanerophytes(15.4 %); therophytes(11.4 %); and chamaephytes(1.8 %). Phytogeographically,Euro-Siberian/Irano-Turanian elements(86 taxa, 21.8 %)and Euro-Siberian elements(85 taxa, 21.5 %) were the most common chorotypes in the area. Out of 395 taxa, 66taxa(16.7 %) were endemics and subendemics in Iran, of which 26 taxa were exclusively endemics of Iran.According to the IUCN Red List Categories, 48 threatened plant taxa were found in the study area. Plant diversity, life form, and chorotypes in the current study were compared with similar transect studies in other areas of the Hyrcanian forests and in different altitudinal belts, using S?renson similarity indices. Floristic composition of the surveyed transects demonstrated almost 50 % similarity between them.
基金Supported by Islamic Azad University from Borujerd,Iran(Grant No.P–151–930319)
文摘Objective: To examine the chemical component of the essential oil of Eremostachys laciniata and evaluate antioxidant activity of the extract.Methods: The hydrodistillated essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-flame ionization detector and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Also, antioxidant activity, total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric method, respectively.Results: The major components of the essential oil were p-cymene(21.64%), linalool(17.93%), and a-pinene(11.42%). Also, the extract obtained by methanol showed a good antioxidant activity. The same extract also exhibited high phenolic and flavonoid contents.Conclusions: These results indicate that Eremostachys laciniata can be used in dietary applications with a potential to reduce oxidative stress.
基金financially supported by the Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council
文摘Recently,nanoparticles have been used along with surfactants for enhancing oil recovery.Although the recent studies show that oil recovery is enhanced using nanoparticle/surfactant solutions,some effective parameters and mechanisms involved in the oil recovery have not yet been investigated.Therefore,the temperature effect on the stability of nanoparticle/surfactant solutions and ultimate oil recovery has been studied in this work,and the optimal concentrations of both SiO2 nanoparticle and surfactant(sodium dodecyl sulfate)have been determined by the Central Composite Design method.In addition,the simultaneous effects of parameters and their interactions have been investigated.Study of the stability of the injected solutions indicates that the nanoparticle concentration is the most important factor affecting the solution stability.The surfactant makes the solution more stable if used in appropriate concentrations below the CMC.According to the micromodel flooding results,the most effective factor for enhancing oil recovery is temperature compared to the nanoparticle and surfactant concentrations.Therefore,in floodings with higher porous medium temperature,the oil viscosity reduction is considerable,and more oil is recovered.In addition,the surfactant concentration plays a more effective role in reservoirs with higher temperatures.In other words,at a surfactant concentration of 250 ppm,the ultimate oil recovery is improved about 20%with a temperature increase of 20°C.However,when the surfactant concentration is equal to 750 ppm,the temperature increase enhances the ultimate oil recovery by only about 7%.Finally,the nanoparticle and surfactant optimum concentrations determined by Design-Expert software were equal to 46 and 159 ppm,respectively.It is worthy to note that obtained results are validated by the confirmation test.
文摘In order to study the influence of the shell effects on the formation and fission of superheavy elements, we applied multidimensional Langevin equations. The evaporation residue cross sections have been calculated for 3n, 4n, and 5n evaporation channels using three(K = 0)-and four(K ≠ 0)-dimensional Langevin equations. Calculations were done for ^(48)Ca + ^(238)U and ^(48)Ca + ^(244)Pu hot fusion reactions with 3n, An evaporation channels and ^(70)Zn+ ^(208)Pb, and ^(54)Cr + ^(209)Bi cold fusion reactions with In and 2n evaporation channels. The calculations were performed for An and 5n evaporation channels of the ^(26)Mg+ ^(238)U reaction, as well. Our results show that with increasing dimension of Langevin equations the residue cross section increases, whereas the fission cross section decreases. The obtained results with four-dimensional Langevin and considering shell effects are in better agreement with experimental data in comparison with three-and four-dimensional Langevin equations without shell effects.
文摘Photofission fragments mass yield for^(232)Th,^(234;238) U,^(237) Np, and^(239;240;242) Pu isotopes are investigated.The calculations are done using a developed approach based on Gorodisskiy's phenomenological formalism. The Gorodisskiy's method is developed to be applied for the neutron-induced fission. Here we revised it for application to photofission. The effect of emitted neutron prior to fission on the fission fragment mass yields has also been studied. The peak-to-valley ratio is extracted for the240 Pu isotope as a function of energy. Obtained results of the present formalism are compared with the available experimental data. Satisfactory agreement is achieved between the results of present approach and the experimental data.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the consequence of oral administration of Calliandra portoricensis(C. portoricensis) leaf extract on the stomach and pancreas in Swiss albino mice.Methods:Three, groups of mice(B,C and D) were treated with 4 mg/kg of C.portoricensis extract.Croup A was the control and received an equivalent volume of distilled water.Group B received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 7 days.Croup C received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 14 days,and Croup D received C.portoricensis leaf extract for 28 days.At different stages in the study,the mice were sacrificed and the stomach and pancreas were excised and fixed in 10%formol saline for histological analysis.Results:The result showed a normal microstructural outline in groups B and C as compared with the control.However,animals in group D showed disorganization of the mucosa and discontinuation of epithelial lining of the stomach while the islets of Langerans in the pancreas were at various degree of degeneration as compared with the control mice. Conclusions:The present finding suggests that chronic administration(28 days as seen in this study) of C.portoricensis leaf extract may inhibit the proper function of the stomach and pancreas.
