Abstract

Plants frequently encounter wounding and have evolved extraordinary regenerative capacity to heal the wounds. However, the wound signal that triggers regenerative responses is not identified. Here, through characterization of a tomato mutant defective in both, wound-induced defense and regeneration, we demonstrate that in tomato, a plant elicitor peptide (Pep), REGENERATION FACTOR1 (REF1), acts as a systemin-independent local wound signal that primarily regulates local defense responses and regenerative responses in response to wounding. We further identified PEPR1/2 ORTHOLOG RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE1 (PORK1) as the receptor perceiving REF1 signal for plant regeneration. REF1–PORK1-mediated signaling promotes regeneration via activating WOUND INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION 1 (WIND1), a master regulator of wound-induced cellular reprogramming in plants. Thus, REF1–PORK1 signaling represents a conserved phytocytokine pathway to initiate, amplify, and stabilize a signaling cascade that orchestrates wound-triggered organ regeneration. Application of REF1 provides a simple method to boost the regeneration and transformation efficiency of recalcitrant crops

Abstract

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) and bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) are infectious diseases characterized by respiratory tract damage, negatively affecting the health of cattle. In this study, an associated inactivated vaccine against IBR and BVD in cattle was developed and tested, demonstrating its safety, non-reactogenicity, and immunogenicity in 6–8-month-old calves. This work aimed to assess the antibody levels against these viruses in cows vaccinated during the third trimester of pregnancy and the duration of maternal immunity in their offspring. The results showed that, one week after vaccination, the antibody titer to IBR virus in pregnant cows was 5–6 log₂ and remained at this level until the third week before revaccination, after which it increased to 7 log₂. The antibody titer dynamics for BVD virus followed a similar trend, reaching 6–7 log₂ after revaccination. Pregnancy proceeded without complications. Blood samples from newborn calves were collected before colostrum feeding, then during 20 weeks post-birth. No antibodies to either virus was detected before colostrum consumption; however, after feeding, antibody levels reached 6–7 log₂, comparable to maternal titers. Maternal antibodies to IBR virus remained constant for 11 weeks, while those to BVD decreased to 5 log₂. Antibodies transmitted via colostrum were detected in calves until week 16, by week 20, antibody titers to both viruses were below 3 log₂. Therefore, colostral immunity in calves born to vaccinated cows persists for 16 weeks. For IBR and BVD prevention, primary immunization of calves should begin at 16 weeks of age.

Abstract

PBMT(photobiomodulation therapy) has been proved a safe, painless and easy-to-use therapy. This therapy is very suitable for children. We proposed two methods to affect the autonomic nervous system and brain wave with single laser acupuncture and array laser stimulation, respectively. From our studies (2012,2013), specific brain waves can be induced by radiating the palm with an NIR array laser. On the other hand, low back pain can be alleviated by laser acupuncture in clinical trial.  In our animal study of PBMT, the pain factors can be reduced by radiating Zusanli (ST36) acupoint with laser acupuncture. PBMT can relieve pain and improve the healing process of Closed Bone Fractures (CBFs) in the human wrist and hand by 830nm diode lasers. This alternative therapy can reduce the use of analgesics. Further, the side effects caused by medicine can be reduced too.  Finally, I will present a case report about a child who has brain trauma injury treated with PBMT and an alternative method I offered.

Abstract

Background: Providing skilled initial neonatal care at birth can greatly improve neonatal outcomes. While simulation-based education is implemented in developed countries to enhance students’ confidence and competence, it remains underutilized in low-income settings like Tanzania. In these contexts, lecture-based teaching dominates, offering limited practical experience in managing neonatal emergencies. This study evaluated whether simulation training improves neonatal care skills among nursing students in Tanzania.

Methods: Using a quasi-experimental study with a control group, 90 students from two nursing schools—45 from an urban school (intervention group) and 45 from a rural school (control group) were conveniently selected. Both groups received standard lectures on initial neonatal care, but the intervention group received additional simulation-based training involving two scenarios: to a normal, healthy breathing neonate and (2) initial neonatal care to neonates with difficulty breathing. Skills performance was assessed using an OSCE checklist on real neonates in labor wards across four sites in Kilimanjaro between June – August 2023. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, and linear regression.

Results: Students who received simulation training scored significantly higher mean score of 47.5 (± 5.8) than those who only received lecture teaching (mean 41.2 (± 5.8), p – 0.001. Linear regression confirmed a significant difference in skills performance favouring the intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Simulation-based education enhanced initial neonatal care skills practice among nursing students compared to lecture methods alone. Implementing simulation can better prepare  students in Tanzania, help address shortages of skilled healthcare provider, and potentially reduce neonatal mortality rates.