Search Results (146)

The growing interest in the commercial exploitation of the bioactive components of Dictyota species, including Dictyota kunthii due to its antifungal activity and use in the development of innovative bioproducts, depends on the availability of biomass. In this context, the cultivation of this species emerges as a promising alternative. This study examined thallus fragmentation and ligulae development as methods to produce D. kunthii. Accordingly, thalli were divided into apical, middle, and basal sections to generate the respective tissue fragments, which were cultured under controlled conditions. On the other hand, ligulae development was studied under different conditions of photon flux density (10, 35 and 65 µmol m⁻²s⁻¹); temperature (10, 17 °C); photoperiod (8:16, 12:12, 16:08 h [Light:Dark]), and seawater enrichment:Basfoliar^®, Compo Expert, Krefeld, Germany and von Stosch solutions. The results show that fragmented thalli were non-viable, exhibiting neither wound healing nor regeneration at the cut sites. Furthermore, no buds or new branches were formed. In contrast, ligulae developed under all tested conditions, with nutrients, light, temperature, and photon flux enhancing apical cell formation and branching. We conclude that ligulae can effectively be used as propagules to cultivate fast-growing, branched D. kunthii plantlets. Accordingly, we recommend using a suspended culture system at 17 °C with a 12:12 (Light:Dark) photoperiod and 65 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ light intensity, as well as adding nutrients (Basfoliar^® at 0.1 mL L⁻¹). Under these conditions, growth rates equal to or exceeding 10% d⁻¹ can be achieved, supporting the feasibility of scaling up to larger volumes for biomass production. Full article

Pinus yunnanensis, is an ecologically and economically important tree species in southwestern China. However, its natural renewal is relatively lagging behind, and it is difficult to achieve sustainable development. Apical removal (top-pruning) can eliminate apical dominance, stimulate sprouting, and provide high-quality scions for clonal propagation. Root systems are a critical foundation for sprouting capacity. In this study, one-year-old P. yunnanensis seedlings were subjected to four treatments: removal of 3/4 (H1), 2/4 (H2), or 1/4 (H3) of the seedling height, and a non-topped control group (CK). The objective was to investigate the seedlings’ responses in terms of root morphology, biomass allocation, and allometric growth. The results showed that by May, biomass allocation in the topped treatments increased by 13.37%, 11.01%, and 7.86%, respectively, compared with the control, and also exhibited higher coefficients of variation. Under the H2 treatment, both fine and coarse roots accounted for a higher proportion of total root biomass and displayed stronger water-retention stability. With increased top-pruning intensity and time, root volume, specific root length, root tissue density, and root tip number were the first to respond, indicating the onset of allometric growth. Notably, in May, the growth rate of specific root surface area followed the order: H3 > H1 > CK > H2. These findings suggest that the root system adapts to environmental changes by modulating growth patterns among various indicators to optimize resource allocation and enhance adaptability. Full article

Spermatogenesis in teleosts is essential for reproductive function; however, it varies considerably among species. The testis of the viviparous molly fish (Poecilia sphenops) was examined using both ultrastructural and immunohistochemical methods. The testis displays a restricted lobular type, where germ cells develop synchronously within Sertoli cell-forming cysts. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed all stages of spermatogenesis. Mature sperm are at the apex of the cysts and migrate toward the sperm ducts. Sperm duct epithelium is lined by cuboidal cells joined by tight junctions, with apical cilia and desmosomal complexes contributing to transport and structural integrity. The sperm ducts showed strong Periodic Acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive expression among negative stained spermatocysts. Centrally, a cavity serves as a storage area for spermatozoa that are organized into unencapsulated bundles known as spermatozeugmata. Sertoli cells exhibited extended cytoplasmic processes that supported developing germ cells, whereas Leydig cells occupied the interstitial tissue, contributing to hormonal regulation. Immunohistochemical labeling demonstrated strong vimentin expression in Sertoli cells and telocytes, indicating their mesenchymal origin and structural role. Calretinin expression was confined to Leydig cells and certain ductal epithelial cells, supporting its use as a marker for steroidogenic and secretory functions. These findings provide new insights into the testicular specialization of P. sphenops, highlighting key somatic–germ cell interactions, ductal adaptations, and marker expression patterns that underlie male reproductive success in viviparous fish. Full article

9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenases (NCEDs), serving as the rate-limiting enzymes in abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis, play a pivotal role in regulating plant growth and development, as well as responses to abiotic stresses. Despite their agronomic importance, the molecular dialog between ABA signaling and vernalization, a cold-induced switch from vegetative to reproductive growth in wheat, remains poorly characterized, particularly regarding the TaNCED gene family members. Here, we systematically identified 13 TaNCED members in hexaploid wheat, followed by multi-omics characterization encompassing physicochemical properties, exon–intron architectures, conserved catalytic domains, protein motifs, and cis-acting elements. By analyzing transcriptome data from vernalization treatments, we profiled the expression patterns of TaNCED genes during vernalization. Notably, TaNCED5-6A, TaNCED5-6B, and TaNCED5-6D exhibited significant upregulation in vernalized leaves and tiller buds, while maintaining basal expression in the shoot apical meristem, the site of floral induction. This tissue-specific expression pattern implicates their specialized role in mediating vernalization responses via ABA biosynthesis. Collectively, our findings provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms of ABA-mediated vernalization in wheat and offer valuable targets for vernalization efficiency in cereal breeding programs. Full article

Background/Objectives: The maxillary labial frenum (MLF) is a connective tissue structure attaching the upper lip to the maxillary alveolar process. Its morphology varies significantly among individuals and is often most prominent during early childhood. While hypertrophic or low-attaching frena have been associated with diastemas, feeding issues, and speech impairments, there is no causal evidence supporting early surgical intervention. This review aims to examine current evidence regarding the timing and necessity of frenectomy procedures and to evaluate the implications of early versus delayed intervention. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using twenty peer-reviewed articles published in the past 10 years, with one additional article from 2012 included for its ongoing relevance. Databases searched included PubMed, the NIH database, the Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry, and journals from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Inclusion criteria were English-language, peer-reviewed studies that addressed the morphology, classification, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of MLFs across age groups. Excluded were studies focusing solely on mandibular, buccal, or lingual frena; non-English publications; case reports; and articles lacking full-text availability. Results: The literature suggests that premature frenectomy, prior to the eruption of permanent maxillary canines, typically between 9 and 12 years of age, is associated with frenum regrowth, surgical complications, and orthodontic relapse. Additionally, a lack of standardized diagnostic criteria contributes to inconsistent clinical decision-making. Conservative management, including monitoring, is strongly recommended as the frenum often migrates apically as the maxilla develops. Factors such as airway obstruction and developmental delays should be ruled out before considering surgery. Conclusions: There is insufficient evidence to support early surgical intervention for MLF-related concerns. A conservative, individualized approach, delaying frenectomy until after permanent canine eruption, may minimize complications, improve long-term outcomes, and allow the frenum to migrate apically as the patient develops. Standardized diagnostic tools are urgently needed to guide clinical decision-making. Full article

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is accompanied by sterile inflammation, a necessary biological process that facilitates tooth displacement but also contributes to adverse effects, including hyalinization and orthodontically induced external apical root resorption (OEARR). Despite advancements in orthodontic therapies, the inflammatory response—regulated by dynamic interactions between tissue-specific cells and their molecular mediators—remains a critical factor influencing treatment outcomes. This review summarizes the current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying OTM, with a focus on how these insights can support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. These include cell- and molecule-based therapies, biomaterial-mediated delivery systems, and applications of artificial intelligence (AI). Notably, AI offers promising opportunities for modeling and simulating biological responses, enabling the optimization of individualized treatment planning. We further discuss current clinical practices and highlight emerging experimental findings, with an emphasis on unresolved research questions pivotal to improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing complications such as OEARR. This comprehensive overview aims to inform future directions in orthodontics by integrating mechanistic knowledge with technological innovation. Full article

Background. The use of zygomatic implants (ZIs) provides a highly predictable treatment option for rehabilitation in patients with severe atrophic maxillae. However, these long implants can potentially cause a number of more serious complications than those seen with conventional dental implants. The aim of this study is to report a case of peri-zygomatic cutaneous fistula following placement of monolateral double zygomatic implants and to analyse the available literature on this complication. Methods. The 55-year-old patient was treated with placement of 3 ZIs, two on the left side. Left periorbital swelling with pain appeared 10 days after surgery with progressive worsening of symptoms. After antibiotic treatment, she developed a left cutaneous fistula with purulent discharge. CT showed two ZIs on the left side with the apical portions in close contact with a 1 cm-wide portion of resorbed zygomatic external cortex and a layer of granulation tissue. Results: Due to the limited amount of bone involved by the fixation tip, the left ZIs were removed and the skin fistula repaired. The patient healed without complications but required prosthesis replacement. Conclusions. After conducting a literature review, peri-zygomatic fistulas seem to be more common in patients with two ZIs placed on the same zygoma. In this case, the amount of available zygomatic bone is relatively limited; the bone drill holes can often be too close together and cause overheating, leading to inter-implant bone resorption and infection, with further orbito-zygomatic fistula development. The authors identified the lack of distance between ZI fixtures as one of the main causes of extraoral ZI infection. Full article

Climate change has contributed to a decline in winter chilling accumulation, a critical requirement for budbreak in temperate fruit crops. Its consequence has been a reduction in fruit production. To compensate for insufficient chilling, hydrogen cyanamide (HC) is widely applied, though its effectiveness remains limited. This study investigated the effect of HC application on budbreak in low-chill kiwifruit under warm conditions by correlating phenological responses with changes in carbohydrate and nitrogen concentrations in bark tissues across bud positions. Phenological observations revealed the highest budbreak percentage and total flower buds at the apical position. HC significantly increased budbreak by 58.82% at the apical position and by 375% at the middle position, with corresponding increases in total flower buds by 148.78% and 1066.67%, respectively. Additionally, shoot lengths were uniform among bud positions in HC-treated canes, whereas non-treated canes showed shoot length heterogeneity. Moreover, HC treatment triggered an earlier and more pronounced reduction in soluble sugars (sucrose and hexoses) concentrations along the gradient from apical to basal bud positions, where the response was strongest at the apical position, which was strongly associated with enhanced budbreak percentages and total flower bud formation. While total nitrogen content was highest in the apical position, it was unaffected by HC application. These findings indicate that HC may promote budbreak by enhancing the mobilization and consumption of soluble sugars for bud growth, thereby improving budbreak performance, flower bud production, and uniform shoot development in low-chill kiwifruit under warm conditions. Full article

This critical narrative review presents the concepts and methods that have been or are currently applied in the treatment of periapical tissue changes in mature and immature permanent teeth. Treatment success is defined as the healing of the inflammatory lesion in permanent teeth and, additionally, the completion of root development in immature teeth. Background/Objectives: Endodontics focuses on the prevention and treatment of diseases affecting the dental pulp and periapical tissues. Periapical changes have been managed using various methods depending on factors such as the extent of the lesion and the stage of root and apical development. Conventional root canal treatment, revitalization, and apexification have all been employed. Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for studies discussing different treatment approaches, materials, and the efficacy of techniques used over time in mature and immature permanent teeth. Results: This review includes seven case reports, seven case series, and three cohort studies, each detailing the treatment method, case characteristics, follow-up period, and treatment outcomes. Conclusions: Modern materials have significantly improved the outcomes of revitalization and apexification procedures. These methods can now compete with or even surpass the clinical effectiveness of conventional root canal therapy. Full article

Background/Objectives: The oral cavity represents a convenient route of administration for drugs that exhibit significant hepatic first-pass extraction. In this study, the mucosal permeation properties of selected active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) incorporated into oral cavity drug products that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration were quantified using the human-derived sublingual HO-1-u-1 and buccal EpiOral™ in vitro tissue models. Methods: Epithelial barrier properties were monitored using propranolol and Lucifer Yellow as prototypic transcellular and paracellular markers. APIs were dissolved in artificial saliva, pH 6.7, and transepithelial flux from the apical to the basolateral compartment was quantified using HPLC. Results: Apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) calculated for these APIs in the sublingual HO-1-u-1 tissue model varied from Papp = 2.72 ± 0.06 × 10⁻⁵ cm/s for asenapine to Papp = 6.21 ± 2.60 × 10⁻⁵ cm/s for naloxone. In contrast, the buccal EpiOral™ tissue model demonstrated greater discrimination power in terms of permeation properties for the same APIs, with values ranging from Papp = 3.31 ± 0.83 × 10⁻⁷ cm/s for acyclovir to Papp = 2.56 ± 0.68 × 10⁻⁵ cm/s for sufentanil. The tissue-associated dose fraction recovered at the end of the transport experiment was significantly increased in the buccal EpiOral™ tissue model, reaching up to 8.5% for sufentanil. Conclusions: Experimental permeation data collected for selected APIs in FDA-approved oral cavity products will serve as a training set to aid the development of predictive computational models for improving algorithms that describe drug absorption from the oral cavity. Following a robust in vitro–in vivo correlation analysis, it is expected that such innovative in silico modeling strategies will the accelerate development of generic oral cavity products by facilitating the utility of model-integrated evidence to support decision making in generic drug development and regulatory approval. Full article

Dens invaginatus is a developmental dental anomaly characterized by the infolding of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during early odontogenesis. This process leads to a broad spectrum of anatomical variations, ranging from minor enamel-lined pits confined to the crown to deep invaginations extending through the root, occasionally communicating with periodontal or periapical tissues. The internal complexity of affected teeth presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in severe forms that mimic root canal systems or are associated with pulpal or periapical pathology. Maxillary lateral incisors are most frequently affected, likely due to their unique developmental timeline and morphological susceptibility. Although various classification systems have been proposed, Oehlers’ classification remains the most clinically relevant due to its simplicity and correlation with treatment complexity. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, especially cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), have revolutionized the identification and classification of these anomalies. CBCT-based adaptations of Oehlers’ classification allow for the precise assessment of invagination extent and pulpal involvement, facilitating improved treatment planning. Contemporary therapeutic strategies now include calcium-silicate-based cement sealing materials, endodontic microsurgery for inaccessible anatomy, and regenerative endodontic procedures for immature teeth with necrotic pulps. Emerging developments in artificial intelligence, genetic research, and tissue engineering promise to further refine diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. Early detection remains critical to prevent complications such as pulpal necrosis or apical disease. A multidisciplinary, image-guided, and patient-centered approach is essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in cases of dens invaginatus. Full article

The evolution of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its impact on public health continue to demand attention as the virus continues to evolve, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt to diverse selective pressures including immune responses, therapeutic treatments, and prophylactic interventions. The SARS-CoV-2 variant landscape remains dynamic, with new subvariants continuously emerging, many harboring spike protein mutations linked to immune evasion. In this study, we characterized a panel of live SARS-CoV-2 strains, including those key subvariants implicated in recent waves of infection. Our findings revealed a significant variability in mutation patterns in the spike protein across the strains analyzed. Commercial antibodies and human convalescent plasma (HCoP) samples from unvaccinated donors were ineffective in neutralizing the most recent Omicron subvariants, particularly after the emergence of JN.1 subvariant. Using human airway epithelial cells derived from healthy bronchiolar tissue (hBAEC), we established both monoinfections and coinfections involving SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A virus H1N1 (IFAV_H1N1) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Assessments were conducted to compare viral infectivity and the production and release of immune mediators in the apical and basolateral compartments. Notably, Omicron KP.3.1.1 subvariant induced a more pronounced cytopathic effect in hBAEC compared to its parental strain JN.1 and even surpassed the impact observed with the ancestral wild-type virus (WA1/2020, Washington strain). Furthermore, the coinfection of KP.3.1.1 subvariant with IFAV_H1N1 or RSV did not attenuate SARS-CoV-2 infectivity; instead, it significantly exacerbated the pathogenic synergy in the lung epithelium. Our study demonstrated that pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IFN-β, and IL-10 were upregulated in hBAEC following SARS-CoV-2 monoinfection with recent Omicron subvariants as well as during coinfection with IFAV_H1N1 and RSV. Taken together, our findings offer new insights into the immune evasion strategies and pathogenic potential of evolving SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, as well as their interactions with other respiratory viruses, carrying important implications for therapeutic development and public health preparedness. Full article

Wood is an important raw material for industrial applications. Its fiber-specific genetic modification provides an effective strategy to alter wood characteristics in tree breeding. Here, we performed a cross-analysis of previously reported single-cell RNA sequencing and the AspWood database during wood formation to identify potential xylem fiber-dominant expressing genes in poplar. As a result, 32 candidate genes were obtained, and subsequently, we further examined the expression of these genes in fibers and/or vessels of stem secondary xylem using the laser capture microdissection technique and RT-qPCR. Analysis identified nine candidate genes, including PtrFLA12-2, PtrIRX12, PtrFLA12-6, PtrMYB52, PtrMYB103, PtrMAP70, PtrLRR-1, PtrKIFC2-3, and PtrNAC12. Next, we cloned the promoter regions of the nine candidate genes and created promoter::GUS transgenic poplars. Histochemical GUS staining was used to investigate the tissue expression activities of these gene promoters in transgenic poplars. In one month, transgenic plantlets grown in medium showed intensive GUS staining signals that were visible in the leaves and apical buds, suggesting substantial expression activities of these gene promoters in plantlets predominantly undergoing primary growth. In contrast, for three-month-old transgenic poplars in the greenhouse with predominantly developed secondary stem tissues, the promoters of seven of nine candidate genes, including PtrMYB103, PtrIRX12, and PtrMAP70, showed secondary xylem fiber-dominant GUS signals with considerable spatial specificity. Overall, this study presents xylem fiber-dominant promoters that are well-suited for specifically expressing genes of interest in wood fibers for forest tree breeding. Full article

Background: The flowering transition is a critical process determining the onset of reproductive development and fruit production. The molecular mechanisms underlying this process in coconuts are poorly understood; however, recent studies have identified CnHd3a as a potential regulator of the floral transition in coconuts. Methods: In this study, we characterized the molecular structure of CnHd3a and analyzed its alternative splicing forms in tall and dwarf varieties of coconut palms during the flowering transition. We used qRT-PCR to measure the expression levels of CnHd3a at different developmental stages. Results: CnHd3a was expressed in leaves and the shoot apical meristem (SAM) during the flowering transition in both coconut varieties and flower tissues during flower development. Interestingly, the expression levels of complex isoforms of CnHd3a were higher in the leaves of dwarf coconuts than in those of tall coconuts, suggesting their involvement in shortening the vegetative growth phase of dwarf coconuts. The gene structure of CnHd3a was found to be conserved across different plant species, indicating the evolutionary conservation of the floral transition process. Conclusions: Our findings provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the floral transition and flower development processes in coconut palm. The tissue-specific expression patterns of CnHd3a isoforms show their potential roles in growth and development. Further investigations focusing on the functional characterization of CnHd3a isoforms will have practical implications for coconut breeding and cultivation strategies. Full article

Plant-specific WUSCHEL (WUS)-related homeobox (WOX) family of transcription factors are involved in apical meristem maintenance, embryogenesis, lateral organ development, and hormone signaling. Among the members of this family, WOX1 is known to play essential roles in many species. However, the function of the peony ‘Feng Dan’ (Paeonia ostii L.) WOX1 (PoWOX1) remains unknown. The initial bioinformatic analysis revealed that PoWOX1 belongs to the modern clade of the WOX gene family and has a highly conserved homeodomain (HD), the WUS motif, the STF-box, and the MAEWEST/WOX4-box. Subsequent heterologous overexpression in Arabidopsis thaliana revealed that PoWOX1 promotes root growth, early shoot initiation, and flowering. The root vascular tissues, especially the arrangement and size of xylem cells, were different between the PoWOX1-overexpressing transgenics and the wild-type plants, and the pericycle cells adjacent to the xylem divided more easily in the transgenics than in the wild type. Furthermore, under in vitro conditions, the transgenic leaf explants exhibited more callus induction and differentiation than the wild-type leaf explants. Thus, the study’s findings provide novel insights into the role of PoWOX1 in promoting root development and callus tissue induction and differentiation, serving as a reference for developing an efficient regeneration system for the peony. Full article