The Scientific World Journal最新文献

Climate change poses significant challenges to global food security by disrupting agricultural nutrient dynamics through increased temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events. These changes threaten crop productivity, soil health, and environmental sustainability. Traditional nutrient management practices, often reliant on excessive chemical fertilizer use, contribute to nutrient losses, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions. This review systematically analyzes 65 peer-reviewed studies (1998-2024) selected using PRISMA guidelines, supplemented by bibliometric tools, to evaluate nutrient management strategies under climate change. The results highlight climate change's multifaceted impacts on soil nutrient cycles, microbial activity, crop physiology, and crop yield. Elevated temperatures and CO₂ levels alter nutrient availability and reduce grain quality, while erratic rainfall patterns exacerbate nutrient losses through leaching and runoff. Conventional fertilizer practices are shown to be inefficient and environmentally harmful, prompting a shift toward integrated nutrient management, precision agriculture, and biofertilizers. Emerging strategies such as slow- and controlled-release fertilizers, site-specific nutrient management, and decision support systems significantly improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Conservation agriculture and organic amendments further enhance soil health and resilience. The discussion highlights that integrated and adaptive nutrient management frameworks, supported by technology and agroecological practices, are critical for maintaining high productivity while minimizing environmental impacts under climate change. These approaches collectively support sustainable crop production, mitigate climate impacts, and promote long-term soil fertility. The review concludes that nutrient management is central to climate-smart agriculture and offers actionable insights for researchers, farmers, and policymakers aiming to secure food systems in a changing climate.

The unchecked growth and spread of aberrant cells describe a widely diverse collection of disorders that collectively constitute cancer. Conventional therapies for cancer, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, have increased the chances of survival significantly in most patients. These traditional methods usually result in low tumor or tumor cell specificity, significant systemic toxicity, and the development of drug resistance. This review summarizes updates in cancer therapy, some of which include cutting-edge therapies represented by CAR-T therapy, targeted therapies, gene therapy, arginine-depriving therapy, mitochondria-targeted therapies, neutrophil-targeted therapies, and the latest PROTAC technology for proteolysis-targeting chimera. It has emphasized mechanisms underlying these new therapeutic strategies and their translational potential for treating human cancers. We further discuss, for each approach, the challenges, limitations, side effects, and delivery systems. The review proceeds with a dynamic change in the landscape of cancer research in biology, where machine learning and artificial intelligence are increasingly important to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of cancer and treatment responses. We also describe the potential of stem cell therapy, metabolomics, and novel drug delivery systems toward better patient outcomes. The paper pulls together some of the current research findings and results of clinical trials in new therapeutic developments and emerging areas of research that hold out exciting promises for the future progress of cancer treatment.

Plastic packaging poses significant environmental challenges due to its resistance to natural degradation. In response, there has been a growing body of research dedicated to developing sustainable packaging alternatives, particularly those based on biodegradable materials. Biopolymer-based packaging is widely recognized for its enhanced environmental compatibility, owing to its capacity for natural decomposition and reduced ecological footprint. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of recent advancements in biopolymer coatings for food packaging, with a focus on their potential to enhance food safety, quality, and shelf life. Analysis of publications from 2015 to 2024 indicates a substantial and consistent rise in scholarly output related to biopolymer-based packaging solutions, driven by global efforts to mitigate plastic waste and its associated environmental impacts. The findings suggest that the future trajectory of biodegradable packaging research should emphasize the development of materials that simultaneously support human health and environmental sustainability. Bibliometric mapping identified polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), chitosan, and cellulose-based polymers as key areas of innovation, highlighting their increasing prominence and interdisciplinary research significance. These materials are notable for their biodegradability, and many also exhibit intrinsic functional properties such as antimicrobial and antioxidant activities-attributes that are highly desirable in food packaging applications. Biopolymer coatings, in particular, have demonstrated excellent barrier properties, including controlled permeability to moisture and oxygen, which are critical for maintaining food integrity. Such coatings contribute to extended shelf life by minimizing dehydration and oxidative damage while concurrently offering protection against microbial contamination. Despite the promising functional characteristics of these materials, several challenges continue to hinder their widespread adoption. Key barriers include high production costs, the limited availability of industrial composting infrastructure, and the general lack of consumer awareness regarding appropriate disposal practices. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts across research, industry, and policy domains. To enable scalable implementation, future innovation must achieve critical advancements in materials science, biopolymer production efficiency, and regulatory alignment. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach will be essential to realize the full potential of biopolymer coatings as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic packaging.

Ethnobotanical relevance: Traditional medicine plays a crucial role in managing snakebite envenomation (SBE) among the people of Nyatike subcounty. This region is particularly important for such a study due to its high incidence of snakebite cases, limited access to healthcare facilities, and strong reliance on indigenous knowledge systems. However, the medicinal plants used for this purpose remain largely undocumented, leading to a lack of scientific investigation. The absence of proper documentation poses a risk of losing this valuable knowledge, as it is primarily passed down orally within trusted families. There is a growing concern that this traditional wisdom may be lost over time due to death, aging of knowledge holders, or declining interest among younger generations.

Aim of the study: This study sought to identify and document the medicinal herbs most commonly used to manage SBE in Nyatike subcounty. By capturing this ethnobotanical knowledge, the study seeks to promote the preservation of folk medicine and provide a foundation for future pharmacological investigations into their potential antivenom properties.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between December 2024 and January 2025, involving approximately 60 purposefully selected respondents. To document local knowledge on medicinal plants, the study utilized oral interviews, field walks, and semistructured questionnaires.

Results: Thirteen medicinal plant species from seven different families were identified and documented for managing SBE in Nyatike subcounty. The Asteraceae family was the most represented, with four species. Key patterns revealed that the most frequently cited species, Combretum collinum Fresen (RFC = 0.75), Bidens pilosa L. (RFC = 0.42), Ozoroa insignis Delile (RFC = 0.33), and Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray (RFC = 0.22), are readily accessible, fast-acting, and commonly used by traditional healers to manage SBE.

Conclusion: The study highlights the extensive use of medicinal plants for SBE management in Nyatike subcounty due to the limitations associated with accessing conventional antivenom. These plants may offer promising leads for the development of plant-based antivenoms, either as complementary or as alternative therapies to current treatments. Further research is necessary to isolate the bioactive compounds present in these plants, assess their safety profiles, and evaluate their antivenom potential.

Annona reticulata Linn.'s aqueous leaf extract was studied for analgesic, anti-inflammatory and wound healing potentials in animal models. Comprehensive in vivo studies were conducted in a mouse model using three well-established methods for evaluating analgesic potential; in all three studies, the aqueous extract at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight doses showed significant and promising effects. A 400 mg/kg dose of aqueous fraction, in the acetic acid-induced writhing test, demonstrated 75% inhibition of pain; in the hot plate test, exhibited 80% analgesic efficacy (90 min later of taking dose); and in the formalin-induced paw licking test, exhibited inhibition of pain responses values of 32.31% and 66.61% in acute and chronic phases, respectively. By performing the xylene-induced ear edema method and the cotton pellet-induced granuloma test, notable anti-inflammatory potential was also found in the test fraction. Two hundred and 400 mg/kg dosages of aqueous leaf fraction reduced ear edema and granuloma brought on by xylene and cotton pellets (p < 0.001). Remarkable wound healing activity was also noted in the test extract in the burn wound model; the observed epithelialisation period for 10% ointment of aqueous extract was 13 ± 0.32 days, whereas the epithelialisation period for standard medication silver sulfadiazine was 14.20 ± 0.38 days. Moreover, probable components responsible for achieving these potentials were identified by utilising GC-MS analytical data.

Ethiopian Orthodox churches and monasteries help as critical biodiversity sanctuaries, mainly for bird species. The study was carried out in and around Jer Silase Monastery between October and January of 2021 using a stratified sample design by dividing the study area into four habitat types: riverine, cliff, natural forest, and farmland. Both the transect and point count method techniques were employed. A total of nine transects and 96-point stations methodically created. Of the transects, five were applied in the cliff habitat and four were in the riverine. Of the point stations, 51 were applied in the natural forest and 45 were applied at the farmland. The data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests. A total of 116 species, belonging to 16 orders and 49 families, were recorded during the study period. Four species, namely, Abyssinian catbird, Abyssinian woodpecker, Harwood's francolin, and yellow-fronted parrot, are unique to Ethiopia, while the scavengers white-backed vultures and hooded vultures are critically endangered species. In all four habitat categories, there were significant differences in the mean abundance of bird species (p = 0.001). There was no visible variation in bird species abundance between the wet and dry seasons (p = 0.085). During the dry season, the cliff had the lowest diversity index (H' = 2.33), while the natural forest had the highest diversity (H' = 4.24). The natural forest had the maximum diversity (H' = 4.16) during the rainy season, whereas the cliff habitat had the lowest diversity (H' = 2.94). During the dry season, the highest evenness (J = 0.85) was recorded at the riverine, and the least evenness (J = 0.39) was recorded at the cliff. Also, during the wet season, the highest evenness (J = 0.72) was recorded in the natural forest, and the least (J = 0.57) was recorded at the cliff. Enhancing community-based protection and integration traditional spiritual values with contemporary conservation strategies is essential for safeguarding bird species and their habitats in the current study area as well as in other Ethiopian monasteries.

Olluco (Ullucus tuberosus Caldas) is an Andean tuber essential in the diet of communities in the Andean regions of South America, generally cultivated at altitudes above 2800 m above sea level. Despite its importance, information on its nutritional composition, particularly protein variability among varieties, is limited. This study determined the total protein content of 50 freeze-dried olluco varieties by the semimicro Kjeldahl method and evaluated the variability of the protein profile of these varieties by electrophoresis techniques (SDS-PAGE and ND-PAGE). The results revealed a wide range of protein content: 20% of the varieties showed high content (10.07-11.55 g/100 g dry weight), 62% medium content (7.00-9.98 g/100 g dry weight), and 18% low content (5.60-6.65 g/100 g dry weight). Analysis of protein profile variability revealed a remarkable similarity in the low molecular weight proteins, especially the intense bands close to 14 and 24 kDa. Cluster analysis of protein patterns obtained by SDS-PAGE allowed us to establish genetic distances and phylogenetic relationships between the varieties studied. The variability in the protein content of olluco suggests that the region of origin may influence the nutritional composition of the varieties. These findings highlight the protein variability of olluco and its potential as a valuable genetic resource for food security and nutrition in the Andean region.

Straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) may offer a natural, flavorful alternative to synthetic food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG). This study was aimed at developing safe and nutritious straw mushroom-based broths and crackers that meet consumer demands for healthier snack options without compromising taste. Broth formulations with 25%, 50%, and 75% mushroom content and crackers containing 50, 100, and 150 g mushroom powder were produced using a freeze-drying technique. All samples, including controls without mushrooms, were analyzed for microbial safety (total plate count [TPC] and mold yeast count [MYC]), nutritional composition, and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). Results showed that all broth and cracker formulations met BPOM (Indonesian Agency of Drug and Food Control) microbial safety standards, with higher mushroom concentrations, with the 75% broth achieving the highest value (2.86 ± 0.02 μmol TE/g DW), suggesting enhanced potential health benefits due to higher antioxidant content. Cracker formulations demonstrated nutritional profiles with moisture (2.16%-6.28%), ash (3.76%-4.39%), protein (12.36%-15.39%), fat (12.77%-15.74%), and carbohydrate (61.73%-65.98%). Microbial contamination in all cracker samples remained within safe limits. Among the cracker variants, formulation F2 (100 g mushroom powder) was optimal based on nutritional value and microbial safety. In conclusion, both straw mushroom-based broths and crackers demonstrated promising nutritional quality, safety, and antioxidant potential, supporting their viability as healthier alternatives to MSG-containing snacks.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of excessive gingival display on oral health-related quality of life of Egyptian females.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 160 individuals with excessive gingival display and 160 controls matched for gender and age, attending the outpatient clinic. The outcome was oral health-related quality of life evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire.

Results: Participants with excessive gingival display had a higher total OHIP-14 score (6.37 ± 3.34) in comparison with the controls (3.68 ± 2.54, p = <0.001). Impacts were also significant in the domains: functional limitation, physical disability, psychological discomfort, and psychological disability. Mean gingival display on maximum smile in the excessive gingival display group was 3.84 ± 1.13 mm.

Conclusion: Excessive gingival display negatively affects the overall oral health-related quality of life, especially the psychological domain in this particular population. The results of this present study justify the correction of excessive gingival display to improve individuals' oral health-related quality of life.

Anabas testudineus is an amphibious freshwater fish species native to Thailand, which is afflicted by protozoan and metazoan infections. This study was aimed at identifying the presence of parasites in A. testudineus from Thung Lam Natural Reservoir in Buriram Province, Thailand, between November 2022 and January 2023. The analysis of 120 climbing perches indicated a 100% prevalence of parasitic infections. Four species from three phyla and four genera were detected: Trianchoratus aecleithrium, a monogenean trematode found on gill filaments, and three intestinal parasites: Pallisentis nagpurensis (Acanthocephala), Allocreadium sp. (trematode), and Camallanus anabantis (Nematode). The respective prevalence rates were 100% for T. aecleithrium, 83.33% for C. anabantis, 63.33% for P. nagpurensis, and 26.67% for Allocreadium sp. Despite the widespread parasitism, no symptoms of illness were observed in the fish hosts. This investigation underscores the high prevalence of fish-borne helminthic infections in Buriram Province, Thailand.