Search Results (1,349)

The impacts of climate change-related stressors are becoming more noticeable in the ocean, particularly in coastal marine ecosystems. Yet limited information still exists on the physiological state and ecological resilience of marine fish species, especially during their early life stages (i.e., larvae and juveniles). The present study investigated the effects of chronic exposure to seawater warming (OW; ΔT = +4 °C) and acidification (OA; ΔpH = −0.3 pH units, equivalent to pCO₂~1000 µatm), acting alone or combined (OWA), on juvenile zebra seabream (Diplodus cervinus) physiological resilience, considering distinct levels of biological organization (i.e., biochemical, cell, organ and individual levels). After 60 days of exposure, both stressors, in isolation or combination, significantly decreased specific growth rate (−11% in OW, −42% in OA and −49% in OWA) and leukocyte counts (from −29% in OA and OWA up to −37% in OW) in relation to the control treatment. In addition, a decreased Fulton’s condition index (K) was observed under warming and acidification in combination (−35% in OWA). At the cell level, OW, OA and OWA triggered different biomarker responses in D. cervinus (i.e., up-regulation, down-regulation, or absence of significant effect). In general, the results are suggestive of an antagonistic effect when warming and acidification are combined. OWA yielded the highest integrated biomarker response (IBR) index value in the whole organism, muscle, brain and gills of D. cervinus juveniles, therefore suggesting that the effects of these stressors are more severe when they act together. The distinct patterns observed in each stress scenario highlight the importance of carrying out further studies adjusted to the specificities of different regions, i.e., accounting not only for the type and degree of severity of environmental stressors already felt and/or projected for that specific area, but also the physiological plasticity of species that inhabit a particular ecosystem. The gathered knowledge will allow one to determine the vulnerability of particular marine species and geographic areas and, most importantly, to draw up effective and tailor-made conservation strategies to overcome climate change impacts. Full article

Pre-existing concealed goafs underneath open-pit slopes (PCO-goafs) pose a serious threat to the stability of open-pit slopes (OP-slopes), which is a common problem worldwide. In this paper, the variable weight-target approaching method, equilibrium beam theory, Pratt’s arch theory, and numerical simulation are used to analyze the management solutions and stability of five PCO-goaf groups in the Nannihu molybdenum mine located in Luoyang City, Henan Province, China. The five PCO-goaf groups, numbered 1#, 2#, 3#, 4#, and 5#, are divided into four hazard classes, ranging from extremely poor to good stability. The stability of 1#, 2#, and 4# is poor and must be managed by filling, and the design strength of backfill is 1.2 MPa; caving is used to treat 3# and 5#, and the safe thickness of the overlying roof is calculated to be 10.5–41 m. After treatment, the safety coefficient of the slope is greater than 1.2, indicating that the slope is stable. This study provides insight and guidance for the safe operation of open-pit mines threatened by the existence of PCO-goafs. Full article

Desertification and salt stress are major causes of terrestrial ecosystem loss worldwide, and the Gobi, representing a salt-stressed area in inland China, has a major impact on the ecosystems and biodiversity of its surrounding environment. The restoration of the Gobi Desert is an important way to control its expansion, but there are few studies on the evaluation of restoration. In this study, soils under different restoration scenarios, namely, soils in restored areas (R1, R2), semi-restored areas (SR1, SR2), and unrestored control areas (C1, C2), were used to investigate differences in microbial diversity and physicochemical properties. The results showed that the soil was mainly dominated by particles of 4–63 μm (26.45–37.94%) and >63 μm (57.95–72.87%). Across the different restoration levels, the soil pH (7.96–8.43) remained basically unchanged, salinity decreased from 9.23–2.26 to 0.24–0.25, and water content remained constant (10.98–12.27%) except for one restored sample in which it was higher (22.32%). The effective Al, Cu, and Zn in the soil increased, but only slightly. Total organic matter (TOM) decreased from 3.86–5.20% to 1.31–1.47%, and total organic nitrogen (TON) decreased from 0.03–0.06% to 0.01–0.02%, but the difference in total organic carbon (TOC) was not significant. High-throughput testing revealed that the bacterial population of the restored area was dominated by A4b (6.33–9.18%), MND1 (4.94–7.39%), and Vicinamibacteraceae (7.04–7.39%). Regarding archaea, samples from the restored areas were dominated by Marine Group II (76.17–81.49%) and Candidatus Nitrososphaera (6.07–9.75%). PCoA showed that the different restoration levels were the main cause of the differences between the samples. Additionally, salinity was the dominant factor that induced this difference, but it was inhibited by the restoration and targeted enrichment of some of these functional genera. Desert restoration should therefore focus on conserving water rather than adding nutrients. Planting salt- and drought-tolerant vegetation will contribute to the initial restoration of the desert and the restoration of the microbiological content of the soil as it migrates over time, creating a cycle of elements. Restoration stimulates and enhances the microbial diversity of the soil via beneficial microorganisms. Full article

Buckwheat is a highly nutritional pseudocereal with antioxidant potential. The aim of this study was to analyze the genetic variability of 21 varieties of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) and 14 varieties of Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) using microsatellite markers. By analyzing 21 SSR markers, an average of 11.6 alleles per locus were amplified and an average PIC value of 0.711 was determined. We determined the heterozygous status of the individuals and variability in the set using the SSR analysis on the basis of expected heterozygosity (He, 0.477), observed heterozygosity (Ho, 0.675), Shannon’s index (I, 0.820), and fixation indices (FST, FIS, FIT). Based on the SSR analyses, the lower level of expected heterozygosity in the analyzed set of Tartary buckwheat genotypes was observed compared to common buckwheat. With the help of a hierarchical cluster analysis using the UPGMA algorithm, Structure analysis, and PCoA analysis for the SSR markers, we divided the buckwheat varieties in the dendrogram into two main clusters according to the species. The AMOVA analysis showed that genetic variability between the individuals prevails in the analyzed set. The SSR technique proved to be a suitable tool for the determination of intra- and inter-varietal genetic variability and for analysis of diversity. Full article

5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) modulators are commonly prescribed medications with potentially life-threatening outcomes, particularly serotonin syndrome (SS). Early prediction of SS is critical not only to avoid lethal drug combinations but also to initiate appropriate treatment. The present work aimed to recognize the significant predictors of SS through a retrospective cross-sectional study that was conducted among patients exposed to an overdose of 5-HT modulators and admitted to a poison control center where 112 patients were enrolled. Of them, 21 patients were diagnosed with SS, and 66.7% of patients with SS were exposed to long-term co-ingestion. There was a noticeable surge in SS between April and May, and 52.4% of patients who suffered from SS were admitted after suicidal exposure (p < 0.05). Patients with SS showed severe presentation indicated by high-grade poison severity scores (PSS) and low Glasgow coma scales (GCS). PSS was a significant predictor of SS with an area under the curve of 0.879. PCO₂, pulse, GCS, HCO₃, and erythrocytic count were other significant predictors of SS. Combinations of serotonergic agents increase the likelihood of developing SS. Clinicians should be vigilant when prescribing a combination of serotonergic therapy, particularly for patients on illicit sympathomimetic and over-the-counter medications like dextromethorphan. Full article

PCOS is a heterogeneous, multifactorial endocrine disorder with a complex pathophysiology. It is a globally rising infertility disorder that affects a large percentage of women of reproductive age, with a relatively high prevalence of 8–13%. Genome-wide association studies have revealed associations of genetic variations with many diseases, including PCOS. The cellular activity of IL8 is mediated by the receptor CXCR2, and transcription of IL8 is controlled by TNF-α. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association of TNF-α, CCR5-delta32, and CXCR2 gene variations with PCOS. Methodology: In this case control study, we used amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS)-PCR to detect and determine the presence of the polymorphic variants TNF-α, CCR5-delta32, and CXCR2 in the study subjects. These gene polymorphs may serve as critical candidate gene variants in PCOS pathogenesis and therapeutics. Results: The case–control study’s findings revealed that the majority of the biochemical and endocrine serum biomarkers examined in the investigation—including lipids (LDL, HDL, and cholesterol), T2DM markers (fasting glucose, free insulin, and HOMA-IR), and hormones (FSH, LH, testosterone, and progesterone)—exhibited statistically significant changes in PCOS patients. The distributions of TNF-α (rs1800629), CCR5-delta32, and CXCR2 (rs2230054) genotypes analyzed within PCOS patients and healthy controls in the considered population were significant (p < 0.05). The heterozygosity of CXCR2-CA, TNF-α GA, and CCR5(WT+Δ32*) genotypes was significantly associated with PCOS susceptibility, with high OR and p < 0.05 in the codominant model. Similarly, the A allele of the TNF-α and CXCR2 genes, along with the CCR5Δ32*(mutant) allele, was significantly associated with PCOS susceptibility, with high OR and p < 0.05. Likewise, the CXCR2 (CA+AA) vs CC genotype was associated with increased susceptibility to PCOS, with OR 2.25, p < 0.032. Conclusions: Our study concludes that TNF-α rs1800629G>A, CXCR2-rs2230054C>T, and CCR5-Delta32 rs333 are potential loci for developing PCOS in the Tabuk population. These findings might eventually be useful in identifying and classifying those who are at risk for PCOS. To validate these results, it is advised that further longitudinal studies be conducted in diverse ethnic populations and with larger sample sizes. Full article

Alzheimer disease, the leading cause of dementia, and polycystic ovary syndrome, one of the most prevalent female endocrine disorders, appear to be unrelated conditions. However, studies show that both disease entities have common risk factors, and the amount of certain protein marker of neurodegeneration is increased in PCOS. Reports on the pathomechanism of both diseases point to the possibility of common denominators linking them. Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway, insulin resistance, and impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which are correlated with amyloid-beta aggregation are these common areas. This article discusses the relationship between Alzheimer disease and polycystic ovary syndrome, with a particular focus on the role of disorders of tryptophan metabolism in both conditions. Based on a review of the available literature, we concluded that systemic changes occurring in PCOS influence the increased risk of neurodegeneration. Full article

Background/Objectives: Temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome consists of several disorders of the masticatory system, namely those of the muscles, the joint itself, as well as the dental and periodontal system. This syndrome is often characterized by pain and an inability to perform functions within the dental–maxillary apparatus, which creates a certain degree of disability in patients. Women are more susceptible to this syndrome than men and hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, are central to its etiology and physiopathology. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases regarding articles published from January 2008 to December 2023. Two authors conducted searches in the mentioned databases based on a pre-established search strategy using agreed-upon keywords. Additionally, each review author performed the selection process of eligible studies based on established inclusion criteria. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale and Risk of Bias tool 2 were used to assess each article for its methodological quality. Results: Of the 1030 records found in the four bibliographic databases, 22 studies were included in this review. Polymorphism in the alpha estrogen receptor appears to be significantly more prevalent in women with temporomandibular dysfunction, suggesting a genetic predisposition. There is a significant role of estrogen in the physiopathology of TMD-related pain. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a significantly higher incidence of TMD, accompanied by elevated inflammatory factors and decreased progesterone levels. In premenopausal women, there is scientific relevance to the association between beta-estradiol levels and TMD development and progression. The effects of estrogen hormones on temporomandibular dysfunction remain highly debated and challenging. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the importance of considering hormonal factors, genetic predisposition, and reproductive life stages in understanding and managing temporomandibular dysfunction. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these associations. Full article

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of anthropogenic organic compounds widely present in the natural and human living environments. These emerging persistent pollutants can enter the human body through multiple channels, posing risks to human health. In particular, exposure to PFASs in women may cause a series of reproductive health hazards and infertility. Based on a review of the existing literature, this study preliminarily summarizes the effects of PFAS exposure on the occurrence and development of female reproductive endocrine diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Furthermore, we outline the relevant mechanisms through which PFASs interfere with the physiological function of the female ovary and finally highlight the role played by nutrients in reducing the reproductive health hazards caused by PFASs. It is worth noting that the physiological mechanisms of PFASs in the above diseases are still unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to further study the molecular mechanisms of PFASs in female reproductive diseases and the role of nutrients in this process. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the effects of applying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on maize root growth and yield formation under different soil conditions. This study was conducted under sandy soil (S) and saline–alkali soil (Y), with treatments of AMF application (AM) and no AMF application (CK). The root characteristics, yield, and quality of maize were measured. High-throughput sequencing technology was employed to assess the impact of AMF on the soil microbial community structure, and the correlation between soil microbes and soil physicochemical properties was elucidated. The results show that under both sandy and saline–alkali soil conditions, AMF application significantly enhanced maize root growth, yield, grain quality, and soil available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), and available potassium (AK) contents compared to the CK treatment. Soil microbial Alpha diversity analysis indicated that AMF application effectively increased soil microbial diversity and richness. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and microbial community structure analysis revealed significant differences in bacterial communities between AM treatment in sandy soil (SAM) and CK in sandy soil (SCK), and significant differences in both bacterial and fungal communities between AM treatment in saline–alkali soil (YAM) and CK in saline–alkali soil (YCK). Furthermore, significant correlations between microbial communities and soil physicochemical properties were found, such as AN, AP, AK, soil salinity (SS), and organic matter (OM) content. AMF application had a greater impact on bacterial communities than on fungal communities. This study demonstrated that the use of AMF as a bio-fungal fertilizer was effective in improving spring maize yields, especially in terms of yield increase and quality stability in sandy and saline soils, thereby contributing to safe and sustainable cropping practices. Full article

Understanding the land use pattern relationships regarding the composition, diversity, and abundance of soil microbial communities in a typical karst depression in southwestern China is crucial for assessing the stability of local karst ecosystems. However, these aspects in typical karst depressions within northern tropical karst seasonal rainforests in China remain limited. Therefore, we examined the differences in soil microorganism abundance, diversity, community composition, and co-occurrence networks under five land use types in a tropical karst region in southwestern China: sugarcane fields, orchards, grasslands, plantation forests, and secondary forests. The soil microbial communities of samples from these areas were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplification. The abundances of Acidobacteria and Ascomycota were lowest (20.66% and 66.55%, respectively) in secondary forests and highest (35.59% and 89.35%, respectively) in sugarcane fields. Differences in microbial abundance across land use types were related to soil pH and total phosphorus. PCoA and ANOSIM demonstrated significant differences in soil bacterial and fungal community structures among the five land use types. Bacterial alpha-diversity showed no significant variation among the different land uses, whereas fungal alpha-diversity exhibited significant differences. Observed Chao1, ACE, and Shannon indices indicated that secondary forests had the highest fungal alpha-diversity. Land use changes also influenced bacterial and fungal co-occurrence networks, with the networks in secondary forests, plantation forests, and orchards being more complex and stable than those in grasslands and sugarcane fields. Key taxa such as Proteobacteria, Planctomycetes, Chloroflexi, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota were predominantly connected within the co-occurrence networks, highlighting their high functional potential. This study provides insights that can inform more effective land use planning and management strategies in karst depressions, thereby enhancing ecological sustainability and balance. Full article

Research question: Theca interna cells (TICs) are an indispensable cell source for ovarian follicle development and steroidogenesis. Recent studies have identified theca stem cells (TSCs) in both humans and animals. Interestingly, TSCs express mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-related markers and can differentiate into mesenchymal lineages. MSCs are promising for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their self-renewal and differentiation abilities. Therefore, this study investigated the potential origin of TICs from MSCs. Design: Whole ovaries from postmenopausal organ donors were obtained, and their cortex was cryopreserved prior to the isolation of stromal cells. These isolated cells were differentiated in vitro to TICs using cell media enriched with various growth factors and hormones. Immunocytochemistry, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain were employed at different timepoints. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results: Immunocytochemistry showed an increase in TIC markers from day 0 to day 8 and a significant rise in MSC-like markers on day 2. This corresponds with rising androstenedione levels from day 2 to day 13. Flow cytometry identified a decreasing MSC-like cell population from day 2 onwards. The CD13+ cell population and its gene expression increased significantly over time. NGFR and PDGFRA expression was induced on days 0 and 2, respectively, compared to day 13. Conclusions: This study offers insights into MSC-like cells as the potential origin of TICs. Differentiating TICs from these widely accessible MSCs holds potential significance for toxicity studies and investigating TIC-related disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Full article

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a female endocrine disorder with metabolic issues. Hyperandrogenism combined with hyperinsulinemia exacerbates the reproductive, metabolic, and inflammatory problems in PCOS patients. The etiology of PCOS is unclear. Patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer a promising model for studying disease mechanisms and conducting drug screening. Here, we aim to use mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) derived from PCOS iPSCs to explore the mechanism of PCOS. We compared the transcriptome profiles of PCOS and healthy control (HC) iPSC-derived MPCs (iPSCMs). Moreover, we assess the impact of androgens on iPSCMs. In the comparison between PCOS and HC, the expression levels of 1026 genes were significantly different. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that adipogenesis- and metabolism-related genes were downregulated, whereas inflammation-related genes were upregulated in the PCOS iPSCMs. Dysregulation of the TGF-β1 and Wnt signaling pathways was observed in the PCOS iPSCMs. Furthermore, there was impaired adipogenesis and decreased lipolysis in the PCOS iPSCMs-derived adipocytes. With testosterone treatment, genes related to metabolism were upregulated in the HC iPSCMs but downregulated in the PCOS iPSCMs. The impact of testosterone varied among HCs and PCOS iPSCMs, possibly because of a genetic predisposition toward PCOS. This study found specific signaling pathways that could serve as therapeutic targets for PCOS. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are prevalent conditions that have been correlated with infertility through overlapped pathophysiological mechanisms. MASLD is associated with metabolic syndrome and is considered among the major causes of chronic liver disease, while PCOS, which is characterized by ovulatory dysfunction and hyperandrogenism, is one of the leading causes of female infertility. The pathophysiological links between PCOS and MASLD have not yet been fully elucidated, with insulin resistance, hyperandrogenemia, obesity, and dyslipidemia being among the key pathways that contribute to liver lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis, aggravating liver dysfunction. On the other hand, MASLD exacerbates insulin resistance and metabolic dysregulation in women with PCOS, creating a vicious cycle of disease progression. Understanding the intricate relationship between MASLD and PCOS is crucial to improving clinical management, while collaborative efforts between different medical specialties are essential to optimize fertility and liver health outcomes in individuals with MASLD and PCOS. In this review, we summarize the complex interplay between MASLD and PCOS, highlighting the importance of increasing clinical attention to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of both entities. Full article

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with significant metabolic implications, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Kallistatin, a serine proteinase inhibitor with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, has been identified as a potential biomarker for PCOS due to its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital’s gynecology clinic. It included 220 women diagnosed with PCOS and 220 healthy controls matched for age and body mass index. Kallistatin levels were quantitatively assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. Associations between kallistatin levels and clinical manifestations of PCOS, including hyperandrogenism and metabolic profiles, were examined. Results: Kallistatin levels were significantly lower in patients with PCOS (2.65 ± 1.84 ng/mL) compared to controls (6.12 ± 4.17 ng/mL; p < 0.001). A strong negative correlation existed between kallistatin levels and androgen concentrations (r = −0.782, p = 0.035). No significant associations were found between kallistatin levels and insulin resistance or lipid profiles. Conclusions: The findings indicate that reduced kallistatin levels are closely associated with PCOS and could serve as a promising biomarker for its diagnosis. The specific correlation with hyperandrogenism suggests that kallistatin could be particularly effective for identifying PCOS subtypes characterized by elevated androgen levels. This study supports the potential of kallistatin in improving diagnostic protocols for PCOS, facilitating earlier and more accurate detection, which is crucial for effective management and treatment. Full article