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Purpose: To assess the implant survival rate in mandibles reconstructed with free fibula flap after oral tumor resection after 1 year of prosthetic loading. A secondary objective was to compare immediate or delayed implant placement protocols in this population. Materials and Methods: Electronic and manual searches were performed on different databases for controlled and prospective trials that indicated implant survival rate. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was evaluated using Cochrane Collaboration tools. Meta-analyses heterogeneity source assessment and GRADE evaluation were performed among studies with identical follow-ups. Results: Among 305 primarily selected articles, 109 were eligible after reading the title and abstract, and 8 were included after full-text reading: 2 randomized controlled trials and 6 prospective studies comprising 140 patients and 507 implants. Meta-analyses estimated an overall survival rate of 97% (95% CI: 94% to 99%) after 1 year of prosthetic loading. The survival rate was 98% (95% CI: 94% to 100%) with immediate implantation and 97% (95% CI: 90% to 99%) with delayed implantation. Only 3 studies reported radiotherapy treatment, with no real impact on implant survival rate. Overall, 69% of tumors were benign. Conclusions: Implant placement in vascularized fibula flaps in the mandible is recommended for patients undergoing segmental mandibular reconstruction after tumor resection. Within the limitations of this study, no significant difference in survival rates was found between immediate and delayed implant placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important source of microplastics, the water ecological risk of tire wear particles (TWPs) has attracted widespread attention worldwide. However, the occurrence and behavior of TWPs and their biological effects in water environments have not been clearly analyzed. For example, most contemporary studies have focused on the evaluation of the aquatic toxicity of TWPs leachate, and little attention has been paid to the behavior process and potential risks of its surface properties in water environments. In addition, most studies rely on preparing TWPs under laboratory conditions or purchasing commercial TWPs for studying their water environmental behavior or exposure. These obviously cannot meet the requirements of accurate assessment of water ecological risks of TWPs. As thus, in addition to describing the occurrence, distribution, and (aging) transformation of TWPs in different water environments, we further tried to explain the potential water environment behavior process and multiple pathways leading to potential adverse impacts of TWPs on aquatic organisms from the perspectives of particle self-toxicity and release toxicity, as well as synergistic effects of TWPs and other substances are also discussed. The existing data, such as studies on the self-characteristics of TWPs, environmental factors, and subjects, are insufficient to comprehensively evaluate the recent changes in essential water ecosystem services and multifunctions caused by TWPs, implying that the impact of TWPs on water environmental health needs to be further evaluated, and the corresponding countermeasures should be recommended. In this context, the current review provides an outlook on future research on TWPs in aquatic environments., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Biobutanol is produced from the acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation. The major bottleneck of ABE fermentation is the self-inhibition of cells and the high energy consumption while recovering butanol. Several alternative techniques have been investigated, but the continuous recovery of butanol using the inexpensive and inert material could be a reliable choice. In the present study, the kraft lignin isolated from the novel lignocellulosic biomass, Sterculia foetida shells, was investigated for its selective adsorptive recovery of biobutanol from the simulated ABE solutions. SEM analyses of morphology and syringyl and guaiacyl units from FTIR show that the isolated lignin is in the softwood category. The XRD analysis shows 76.99% of the crystallinity index, which shows the crystalline features of kraft lignin. High thermal stability and surface area from TGA–DSC and BET analysis shows that the isolated lignin can be wisely used as an adsorbent. The isolated lignin maximum butanol adsorption capacity and the rate constant is 393.700 mg/g and 0.0954, respectively. The results show that Sterculia foetida lignin can be used commercially as a potential adsorbent for continuous biobutanol recovery in the ABE fermentation process. Using renewable lignin as an adsorbent is a sustainable approach for the circular bioeconomy as part of the lignocellulosic biorefinery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of German International Journal of Modern Science / Deutsche Internationale Zeitschrift für Zeitgenössische Wissenschaft is the property of Artmedia24 and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The automatic transformation of short background videos from real scenarios into other forms with a visually pleasing style, like those used in cartoons, holds application in various domains. These include animated films, video games, advertisements, and many other areas that involve visual content creation. A method or tool that can perform this task would inspire, facilitate, and streamline the work of artists and people who produce this type of content. This work proposes a method that integrates multiple components to translate short background videos into other forms that contain a particular style. We apply a fine-tuned latent diffusion model with an image-to-image setting, conditioned with the image edges (computed with holistically nested edge detection) and CLIP-generated prompts to translate the keyframes from a source video, ensuring content preservation. To maintain temporal coherence, the keyframes are translated into grids and the style is interpolated with an example-based style propagation algorithm. We quantitatively assess the content preservation and temporal coherence using CLIP-based metrics over a new dataset of 20 videos translated into three distinct styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the mechanism of oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acid esters and presents the effect of temperature as one of the factors accelerating this process. The consequences of aging for ester-based biofuels are discussed extensively. The article presents the results of aging of FAMEs obtained from frying oil and of FAMEs derived from unrefined rapeseed oil to examine the influence of temperature as a factor accelerating aging. Acid, peroxide and anisidine values were determined for each sample; additionally, IR spectra were measured. Based on the results, it was confirmed that temperature has a significant effect on the degradation of FAMEs. These changes are best represented by the anisidine value and the change in IR spectra. The paper presents the relationship between acid, peroxide and anisidine values. This paper also highlights the beneficial effect of natural antioxidants in the form of β–carotene, which is found in FAMEs derived from unrefined rapeseed oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic humification, dominated by catalytic oxidation, is one of the critical mechanisms for organic carbon preservation in nature. However, the effects of biochar catalysis on abiotic humification have not yet been elucidated. This study investigated the catalytic power of biochar from walnut shells at different temperatures (300 °C, 600 °C, and 900 °C) for the abiotic transformation of hydroquinone (HQ) as a representative polyphenol. All the biochar samples catalyzed HQ polymerization, resulting in the formation of humic polymers such as fulvic acids (FAs) and humic acids (HAs). Light and oxygen promoted HA formation. HO• was detected in the BC600–HQ reaction system, and HO• quenching resulted in a 41.22% decrease in HA production, indicating that HO• plays a major role in the oxidative polymerization. In the proposed pathway for the abiotic humification, biochar active sites and generated reactive oxygen species accept an electron from HQ, resulting in oxidation to (semi)quinone radicals, which subsequently undergo cleavage or a coupling reaction to form the oligomerized products. Under BC600 catalysis, the weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of the reaction products of HQ, glucose, and glycine reached 14,449 Da. These findings provide new insights into the application potential of biochar for promoting soil carbon sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reveal the influence of the diversity of precursors on the formation of environmental persistent free radicals (EPFRs), pomelo peel (PP) and its physically divided portion, pomelo cuticle (PC), and white fiber (WF) were used as precursors to prepare six hydrochars: PPH-Fe, PCH-Fe, WFH-Fe, PPH, PCH, and WFH with and without Fe(III) addition during hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). PPH-Fe and WFH-Fe had higher EPFRs content (9.11 × 1018 and 8.25 × 1018 spins·g−1) compared to PPH and WFH (3.33 × 1018 and 2.96 × 1018 spins·g−1), indicating that iron-doping favored EPFRs formation. However, PCH-Fe had lower EPFRs content (2.78 × 1018 spins·g−1) than PCH (7.95 × 1018 spins·g−1), possibly due to excessive iron leading to the consumption of the generated EPFRs. For another reason, the required Fe(III) amount for EPFRs formation might vary among different precursors. PC has a lower concentration of phenolic compounds but 68–97% fatty acids, while WF and PP are rich in cellulose and lignin. In the Fenton-like reaction, oxygen-centered radicals of hydrochar played a significant role in activating H2O2 and efficiently degrading bisphenol A (BPA). Mechanisms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in hydrochar/H2O2 system were proposed. EPFRs on hydrochar activate H2O2 via electron transfer, creating ·OH and 1O2, leading to BPA degradation. More importantly, the embedded EPFRs on the hydrochar's inner surface contributed to the prolonged Fenton-like reactivity of PPH-Fe stored for 45 days. This study demonstrates that by optimizing precursor selection and iron doping, hydrochars can be engineered to maximize their EPFRs content and reactivity, providing a cost-effective solution for the degradation of hazardous pollutants. Article Highlights: Characteristics and mechanisms for the generation and consumption of EPFRs were proposed. To favor g3-type EPFRs formation, the quantity of Fe(III) and aromatic compounds of the biomass should be matched. The g3-type EPFRs on hydrochars played a major role in the Fenton-like reaction. The external EPFRs of hydrochars were consumed easily while the internal EPFRs persisted during long-term storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of emission control measures implemented by the Chinese government have effectively reduced air pollution by multiple pollutants in many regions of the country in recent decades. However, the impacts of these control measures on environmental persistent free radicals (EPFRs) and reactive oxygen species (ROSs), the two groups of chemical species that are known to be linked with adverse human health effects, are still not clear. In this study, we investigated the levels, patterns, and sources of EPFRs and gas- and particle-phase ROSs (referred to as G-ROSs and P-ROSs, respectively) in Beijing during the 2015 China Victory Day Parade period when short-term air quality control measures were imposed. EPFRs in the non-control period (NCP) tended to be radicals centered on a mixture of carbon and oxygen, while those in the control period (CP) were mainly oxygen-centered free radicals. The contribution of G-ROSs to the atmospheric oxidizing capacity increased, and that of P-ROSs decreased during the CP compared to the NCP. The strict control measures reduced ambient EPFRs, G-ROSs, and P-ROSs by 18.3 %, 24.1 %, and 46.9 %, respectively; these amounts were smaller than the decreases in most other measured pollutants. Although particle-matter-based air quality control measures have performed well in achieving "Parade Blue", it is difficult to simultaneously reduce the negative impacts of the atmosphere on human health. The Parade Blue days were largely attributed to the dramatic reduction in secondary aerosols, which were also largely responsible for EPFR and ROS reductions. Compared to the cases during the NCP, the source-sector-based concentrations of PM 2.5 , EPFRs, G-ROSs, and P-ROSs during the CP were reduced by 78.7 %–80.8 % when coming from secondary aerosols, by 59.3 %–65.0 % when coming from dust sources, by 65.3 %–67.0 % when coming from industrial emissions, and by 32.6 %–43.8 % when coming from vehicle emissions, while concentrations from other sources increased by 1.61 %–71.5 %. Vehicle emissions and other sources may play complex roles in air quality and public health. This insight will prompt policymakers to reevaluate current air quality management strategies to more effectively address the challenges posed by pollutants such as EPFRs and ROSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) is mediated by the particulate matter's surface, especially transition metal oxide surfaces. In the context of current atmospheric complex pollution, various atmospheric components, such as key atmospheric oxidants ·OH and O3, are often absorbed on particulate matter surfaces, forming particulate matter surfaces containing ·OH and O3. This, in turn, influences EPFRs formation. Here, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to explore the formation mechanism of EPFRs by C6H5OH on α-Fe2O3(0001) surface containing the ·OH and O3, and compare it with that on clean surface. The results show that, compared to EPFRs formation with an energy barrier on a clean surface, EPFRs can be rapidly formed through a barrierless process on these surfaces. Moreover, during the hydrogen abstraction mechanism leading to EPFRs formation, the hydrogen acceptor shifts from a surface O atom on a clean surface to an O atom of ·OH or O₃ on these surfaces. However, the detailed hydrogen abstraction process differs on surfaces containing oxidants: on surfaces containing ·OH, it occurs directly through a one-step mechanism, while, on surfaces containing O3, it occurs through a two-step mechanism. But, in both types of surfaces, the essence of this promotional effect mainly lies in increasing the electron transfer amounts during the reaction process. This research provides new insights into EPFRs formation on particle surfaces within the context of atmospheric composite pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the gut microbiome has been intensively investigated for more than twenty years already, its role in various disorders remains to be unraveled. At the same time, questions about what changes in the gut microbiota can be considered as normal or pathological and whether communities are able to recover after exposure to negative factors (diseases, medications, environmental factors) are still unclear. Here, we describe changes in the gut microbiota composition and the content of short-chain fatty acids in adult healthy volunteers (n = 15) over a 24 month-period. Intraindividual variability in gut microbial composition was 40%, whereas the short chain fatty acids profile remained relatively stable (2-year variability 20%, inter-individual 26%). The changes tend to accumulate over time. Nevertheless, both short-term and long-term changes in the gut microbiome composition were significantly smaller within individuals than interindividual differences (two-year interindividual variability was 75%). Seasonal changes in gut microbiota were found more often in autumn and spring involving the content of minor representatives (less than 1.5% of the community in average) in the phyla Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to military actions, there is destruction of Ukraine's ecosystems, deterioration of sanitary and hygienic indicators of drinking water, air, and soil. With the onset of full-scale war, the negative impact of harmful and dangerous substances (the use of chemical, phosphorus bombs, and other weapons) prohibited by the Geneva Convention leads to unforeseen consequences for the environment of Ukraine. The purpose of the study is to analyze injuries resulting from the action of white phosphorus of various types of phosphorus weapons, namely explosive weapons with a wide area of effect, mines, ammunition, long-range missiles; artillery, mortar shells, various types of grenades in the conditions of russian aggression against Ukraine. The following methods were used in the work: content analysis, comparative analysis, and systematization of the researched material. Research of scientific publications by domestic and foreign scientists using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases for the period 2001-2023 was conducted. Phosphorus munitions such as WP are known for their high effectiveness in combat operations, but also lead to serious injuries, both traumatic and post-traumatic psychological changes. White phosphorus (explosive bombs) causes burns of human body tissues upon contact with burning material, as well as burns of the upper respiratory tract due to inhalation of smoke or gases emitted during combustion. The article analyzes the regulatory framework prohibiting the use of phosphorus munitions in armed conflicts. Clinical cases of gunshot combined injuries of limbs with massive soft tissue defects, gunshot fractures, and the presence of multiple foreign bodies of metal density due to the use of phosphorus munitions are considered. An analysis of scientific research by foreign scientists on this issue was conducted. The article provides algorithms for providing first aid due to the action of phosphorus munitions, as well as methodological recommendations of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine (Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine No. 506 of March 20, 2022) for providing medical assistance at the prehospital stage in case of phosphorus munition injuries, burns, enteral poisoning, exposure to white phosphorus in the eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens causes difficult-to-treat infections with long-term hospitalizations and a high incidence of death, thus representing a global public health problem. To manage MDR bacteria bugs, new antimicrobial strategies are necessary, and their introduction in practice is a daily challenge for scientists in the field. An extensively studied approach to treating MDR infections consists of inducing high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by several methods. Although further clinical investigations are mandatory on the possible toxic effects of ROS on mammalian cells, clinical evaluations are extremely promising, and their topical use to treat infected wounds and ulcers, also in presence of biofilm, is already clinically approved. Biochar (BC) is a carbonaceous material obtained by pyrolysis of different vegetable and animal biomass feedstocks at 200–1000 °C in the limited presence of O2. Recently, it has been demonstrated that BC's capability of removing organic and inorganic xenobiotics is mainly due to the presence of persistent free radicals (PFRs), which can activate oxygen, H2O2, or persulfate in the presence or absence of transition metals by electron transfer, thus generating ROS, which in turn degrade pollutants by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). In this context, the antibacterial effects of BC-containing PFRs have been demonstrated by some authors against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, thus giving birth to our idea of the possible use of BC-derived PFRs as a novel method capable of inducing ROS generation for antimicrobial oxidative therapy. Here, the general aspects concerning ROS physiological and pathological production and regulation and the mechanism by which they could exert antimicrobial effects have been reviewed. The methods currently adopted to induce ROS production for antimicrobial oxidative therapy have been discussed. Finally, for the first time, BC-related PFRs have been proposed as a new source of ROS for antimicrobial therapy via AOPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in the video sector has captured widespread attention. Despite the proliferation of AI video generation tools targeted at general consumers, there remains a gap in addressing the specialized requirements and advanced functionalities sought by industry professionals. This study aims to identify and overcome the barriers hindering the adoption of AI video tools in the Chinese video industry, thereby facilitating their seamless integration. The research unfolded in two phases employing a comprehensive methodology. Initially, we delineated the industry's video usage standards, drawing upon both established norms and insights gleaned from seasoned industry experts through focus group interviews. These insights informed the formulation of semi-structured interview questions. Subsequently, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten Chinese industry experts, leading to the identification of eight primary adoption barriers: innovation, market demand, technological maturity, cross-disciplinary collaboration, ethics and privacy, public acceptance, data security and copyright, and global perspectives and localization. In the second phase, a detailed questionnaire survey involving 401 Chinese industry practitioners validated these factors. A data analysis underscored the significant impact of these eight factors on industry adoption, particularly emphasizing technological maturity. Furthermore, exhaustive examinations and discussions were undertaken for each identified barrier. The findings of this study theoretically bridge the gaps in understanding the impediments to the application of AI video generation tools in the video industry. They offer valuable insights into the current application landscape and furnish pertinent suggestions for advancing technology promotion and development in the future. Ultimately, this research aspires to augment the integration and utilization of AI technology within the Chinese video production industry, thereby propelling its progress and development forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuFeO2 nanoparticles were decorated on biochar by one-step hydrothermal method to form the CuFeO2 /BC catalyst for persulfate (PS) activation and application of CuFeO2/BC in sulfadiazine (SDZ) contaminated soil was explored in this study. The influence of some key factors such as catalyst doses, PS concentration, initial pH and different soil types on degradation of SDZ were investigated. The results showed that CuFeO2/BC system has better catalytic performance and PS utilization efficiency compared with the pure CuFeO2. Under the condition of CuFeO2/BC dosage of 8 g/kg and PS addition of 3 g/kg, 91.72% SDZ (initial concentration of 20 mg/kg) could be removed from the soil within 120 minutes. Furthermore, the mechanism of the CuFeO2/BC/PS system was revealed by quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests. It demonstrated that active species (SO4•-, HO•, O2•-) were involved in SDZ degradation, the weak EPR signal confirmed the existence of 1O2 but not participated in the degradation of SDZ. The steady-state concentrations of HO• and SO4•- were calculated by using free radical probes. Afterwards, the contribution rates of SO4•-, HO•, O2•- to the degradation of SDZ were obtained to be 43.89%, 32.87%, and 23.24%, respectively. Combined X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the high catalytic efficiency was attributed to the synergistic effect of Cu+/Cu2+ and Fe2+/Fe3+ redox cycles. These findings help to achieve more comprehensive understanding of the heterogeneous activation process of PS by CuFeO2 /BC to degrade SDZ in actual contaminated sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diastolic dysfunction, a prevalent condition characterized by impaired relaxation and filling of the left ventricle, significantly contributes to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding lectin, has garnered attention as a potential biomarker and mediator of fibrosis and inflammation in cardiovascular diseases. This comprehensive review investigates the impact of galectin-3 on diastolic dysfunction. We explore its molecular mechanisms, including its involvement in cellular signaling pathways and interaction with components of the extracellular matrix. Evidence from both animal models and clinical studies elucidates galectin-3's role in cardiac remodeling, inflammation, and fibrosis, shedding light on the underlying pathophysiology of diastolic dysfunction. Additionally, we examine the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of galectin-3 in diastolic dysfunction, emphasizing its potential as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target. This review underscores the significance of comprehending galectin-3's role in diastolic dysfunction and its promise in enhancing diagnosis and treatment approaches for HFpEF patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of a large-scale, web-based, in-service hypertension management training project among lay health workers (LHWs) at primary care health (PHC) settings in China, and to examine the factors contributing to the variations of effectiveness. METHODS We used data from a web-based national hypertension management training project implemented in 2018, it was designed to facilitate LHWs to learn, understand, and apply the relevant knowledge and skills in hypertension management through providing training courses by use of the web-based platform with unified standards. All LHWs were required to participate in the exams before and after training to acquire scores for the use of evaluating their performance of hypertension management knowledge. We first used descriptive analysis to present the variations of effectiveness in hypertension management knowledge among LHWs by important subgroups. Afterwards, we used multilevel logistic regression to examine the individual and regional factors contributing to the variations and quantify the magnitude of how these factors affected training effectiveness. RESULTS There were 1,208,610 LHWs who completed training and were certificated. Nationally, the scores of LHWs increased significantly from 62.87 ± 21.14 out of 100 in the pre-test to 88.30 ± 11.31 in the post-test by 25.43 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 25.40-25.47). Training contents involved in antihypertensive medication showed the lowest score (54.36) in the pre-test and soared the most after training, up to 84.22 by 54.94%. Individual factors associated with disparities in the knowledge of hypertension management decreased substantially after training, which included sex, age, education, practice type, professional level, and hierarchy of working institutions. Geographical variations were shown at the provincial level, with the majority of them being explained by factors at the regional level. CONCLUSIONS Accessible web-based training modality, government efforts, accompanied with experiences derived from the training, could be generalized to other low- and middle-income countries in facilitating the hypertension management capacity of LHWs. Localization and evaluation is warranted on the way to its further application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review delineates the extensive roles of Akkermansia muciniphila in various health domains, spanning from metabolic and inflammatory diseases to neurodegenerative disorders. A. muciniphila, known for its ability to reside in the mucous layer of the intestine, plays a pivotal role in maintaining gut integrity and interacting with host metabolic processes. Its influence extends to modulating immune responses and potentially easing symptoms across several non-communicable diseases, including obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. Recent studies highlight its capacity to interact with the gut–brain axis, suggesting a possible impact on neuropsychiatric conditions. Despite the promising therapeutic potential of A. muciniphila highlighted in animal and preliminary human studies, challenges remain in its practical application due to stability and cultivation issues. However, the development of pasteurized forms and synthetic mediums offers new avenues for its use in clinical settings, as recognized by regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority. This narrative review serves as a crucial resource for understanding the broad implications of A. muciniphila across different health conditions and its potential integration into therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The auto-generation of urban roads can greatly improve efficiency and productivity in urban planning and designing. However, it has also raised concerns amongst researchers over the past decade. In this paper, we present an image-based urban road network generation framework using conditional diffusion models. We first trained a diffusion model capable of generating road images with similar characteristics to the ground truth using four context factors. Then, we used the trained model as the generator to synthesize road images conditioned in a geospatial context. Finally, we converted the generated road images into road networks with several post-processes. The experiments conducted in five cities of the United States showed that our model can generate reasonable road networks, maintaining the layouts and styles of real examples. Moreover, our model has the ability to show the obstructive effect of geographic barriers on urban roads. By comparing models with different context factors as input, we find that the model that considers all four factors generally performs the best. The most important factor in guiding the shape of road networks is intersections, implying that the development of urban roads is not only restricted by the natural environment but is more strongly influenced by human design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human milk contains a variety of microorganisms that exert benefit for human health. In the current study, we isolated a novel Lactobacillus gasseri strain named Lactobacillus gasseri (L. gasseri) SHMB 0001 from human milk and aimed to evaluate the probiotic characteristics and protective effects on murine colitis of the strain. The results showed that L. gasseri SHMB 0001 possessed promising potential probiotic characteristics, including good tolerance against artificial gastric and intestinal fluids, adhesion to Caco‐2 cells, susceptibility to antibiotic, no hemolytic activity, and without signs of toxicity or infection in mice. Administration of L. gasseri SHMB 0001 (1 × 108 CFU per gram of mouse weight per day) reduced weight loss, the disease activity index, and colon shortening in mice during murine colitis conditions. Histopathological analysis revealed that L. gasseri SHMB 0001 treatment attenuated epithelial damage and inflammatory infiltration in the colon. L. gasseri SHMB 0001 treatment increased the expression of colonic occludin and claudin‐1 while decreasing the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokine genes. L. gasseri SHMB 0001 modified the composition and structure of the gut microbiota community and partially recovered the Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) metabolic pathways altered by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Overall, our results indicated that the human breast milk–derived L. gasseri SHMB 0001 exhibited promising probiotic properties and ameliorative effect on DSS‐induced colitis in mice. L. gasseri SHMB 0001 may be applied as a promising probiotic against intestinal inflammation in the future. Practical Application: L. gasseri SHMB 0001 isolated from human breast milk showed good tolerance to gastrointestinal environment, safety, and protective effect against DSS‐induced mice colitis via enforcing gut barrier, downregulating pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and modulating gut microbiota. L. gasseri SHMB 0001 may be a promising probiotic candidate for the treatment of intestinal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation sheets for fruit leather are traditionally made of plastic film or wax paper, which not only leads to environmental issues but also is inconvenience to consumers. This study evaluated edible fruit leather separation sheets using food polymers, including hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and incorporation of cranberry pomace water extract (CPE) for providing natural fruit pigment, flavor, and phenolics. HPMCCPE film was then further improved by incorporating hydrophobic compound (oleic acid, OA) and vitamin E (VE) via cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) Pickering emulsion (CNCP) for enhancing film hydrophobicity and nutritional benefit, respectively. The CNCP–HPMCCPE film exhibited reduced water vapor permeability (∼0.033 g mm/m2 d Pa) compared to HPMCCPE film (∼0.59 g mm/m2 d Pa) and had the least change in mass and moisture content when wrapping fruit leather for up to 2 weeks of ambient storage. The fruit leather wrapped by CNCP–HPMCCPE film showed lower weight change than those by films without CNCP due to low mass transfer between film and fruit leather. CNCP resulted in controlled release of VE into a food simulating solvent (ethanol). The developed colorful and edible fruit leather separation sheet satisfied the increased market demands on sustainable food packaging. Practical Application: Colorful and flavorful edible films made of edible polymers, fruit pomace water extract, and emulsified hydrophobic compounds with vitamin E were created. The films have the satisfactory performance to replace the conventional fruit leather separation sheet made of plastic or wax paper. The edible films can be eaten with packaged fruit leather for not only reducing packaging waste but also providing convenience and nutritional benefit to consumers. These functional edible films may also be utilized to package other food products for promoting packaging sustainability and nutritional benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Food Science & Biotechnology is the property of Journal of Food Science & Biotechnology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Persistent free radicals (PFRs) are emerging substances with diverse impacts in biochar applications, necessitating accurate prediction of their content and types prior to their optimal use and minimal adverse effects. This prediction task is challenging due to the nonlinearity and intricate variable relationships of biochar. Herein, we employed data-driven techniques to compile a dataset from peer-reviewed publications, aiming to systematically predict the PFRs by developing supervised machine learning models. Notably, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model exhibited the best predictive performance for both regression and classification tasks in predicting the PFRs, achieving a test R2 value of 0.95 for PFR content prediction, along with an Area Under the Receiver Operating Curve (AUROC) of 0.92 for PFR type prediction, respectively. Based on XGBoost model, a graphical user interface (GUI) was developed to access PFRs predictions. Analysis of feature importance revealed that the biochar properties, such as metal/non-metal doping, pyrolysis temperature, carbon content, and specific surface area were identified as the four most significant factors influencing PFRs contents. Regarding the types of PFRs in biochar, specific surface area, pyrolysis temperature, carbon content, and feedstock were top-ranked influencing factors. These findings provide valuable guidance for accurately predicting both the contents and types of PFRs in biochar, and also hold significant potential for highly efficient utilization of biochar across various applications. Highlights: • Recognizing dual nature of PFRs, a machine-learning framework predicts them in biochar. • XGBoost excels, achieving an R2 (0.95) for PFR content and an AUROC (0.92) for PFR type. • Important factors of PFR: doping, pyrolysis temp, carbon, and surface area. • GUI enhances accessibility, enabling PFR predictions before biochar preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human intestinal tract constitutes a complex ecosystem, made up of countless gut microbiota, metabolites, and immune cells, with hypoxia being a fundamental environmental characteristic of this ecology. Under normal physiological conditions, a delicate balance exists among these complex "residents", with disruptions potentially leading to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The core pathology of IBD features a disrupted intestinal epithelial barrier, alongside evident immune and microecological disturbances. Central to these interconnected networks is hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), which is a key regulator in gut cells for adapting to hypoxic conditions and maintaining gut homeostasis. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), as pivotal gut metabolites, serve as vital mediators between the host and microbiota, and significantly influence intestinal ecosystem. Recent years have seen a surge in research on the roles and therapeutic potential of HIF-1α and SCFAs in IBD independently, yet reviews on HIF-1α-mediated SCFAs regulation of IBD under hypoxic conditions are scarce. This article summarizes evidence of the interplay and regulatory relationship between SCFAs and HIF-1α in IBD, pivotal for elucidating the disease's pathogenesis and offering promising therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion models have swiftly taken the lead in generative modeling, establishing unprecedented standards for producing high-quality, varied outputs. Unlike Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)—once considered the gold standard in this realm—diffusion models bring several unique benefits to the table. They are renowned for generating outputs that more accurately reflect the complexity of real-world data, showcase a wider array of diversity, and are based on a training approach that is comparatively more straightforward and stable. This survey aims to offer an exhaustive overview of both the theoretical underpinnings and practical achievements of diffusion models. We explore and outline three core approaches to diffusion modeling: denoising diffusion probabilistic models, score-based generative models, and stochastic differential equations. Subsequently, we delineate the algorithmic enhancements of diffusion models across several pivotal areas. A notable aspect of this review is an in-depth analysis of leading generative models, examining how diffusion models relate to and evolve from previous generative methodologies, offering critical insights into their synergy. A comparative analysis of the merits and limitations of different generative models is a vital component of our discussion. Moreover, we highlight the applications of diffusion models across computer vision, multi-modal generation, and beyond, culminating in significant conclusions and suggesting promising avenues for future investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a compilation of articles and reviews on various topics in cardiology. The articles cover subjects such as the prevalence of arrhythmia in adults after a specific operation, outcomes of patients after resuscitated cardiac arrest, and catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias. The reviews discuss topics like the pathogenesis and management of a specific syndrome, molecular mechanisms of arrhythmias, and structural heart alterations in that syndrome. The authors have declared their contributions and any conflicts of interest. The document provides valuable information for researchers and healthcare professionals interested in cardiology. [Extracted from the article]

Relevant studies increasingly indicate that female reproductive health is confronted with substantial challenges. Emerging research has revealed that the microbiome interacts with the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, which are the cornerstone of maintaining female reproductive health and preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Currently, the precise mechanisms underlying their interaction and impact on physiological functions of the reproductive tract remain elusive, constituting a prominent area of investigation within the field of female reproductive tract microecology. From this new perspective, we explore the mechanisms of interactions between the microbiome and the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, factors that affect the composition of the microbiome in the female reproductive tract, as well as personalized medicine approaches in managing female reproductive tract health based on the microbiome. This study highlights the pivotal role of the female reproductive tract microbiome in maintaining reproductive health and influencing the occurrence of reproductive tract diseases. These findings support the exploration of innovative approaches for the prevention, monitoring and treatment of female reproductive tract diseases based on the microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC) is a carbonaceous material obtained by pyrolysis at 200–1000 °C in the limited presence of O2 from different vegetable and animal biomass feedstocks. BC has demonstrated great potential, mainly in environmental applications, due to its high sorption ability and persistent free radicals (PFRs) content. These characteristics enable BC to carry out the direct and PFRs-mediated removal/degradation of environmental organic and inorganic contaminants. The types of PFRs that are possibly present in BC depend mainly on the pyrolysis temperature and the kind of pristine biomass. Since they can also cause ecological and human damage, a systematic evaluation of the environmental behavior, risks, or management techniques of BC-derived PFRs is urgent. PFRs generally consist of a mixture of carbon- and oxygen-centered radicals and of oxygenated carbon-centered radicals, depending on the pyrolytic conditions. Here, to promote the more productive and beneficial use of BC and the related PFRs and to stimulate further studies to make them environmentally safer and less hazardous to humans, we have first reviewed the most common methods used to produce BC, its main environmental applications, and the primary mechanisms by which BC remove xenobiotics, as well as the reported mechanisms for PFR formation in BC. Secondly, we have discussed the environmental migration and transformation of PFRs; we have reported the main PFR-mediated application of BC to degrade inorganic and organic pollutants, the potential correlated environmental risks, and the possible strategies to limit them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the efficiency of advanced supercritical CO2 extraction (SC-CO2) and conventional Soxhlet extraction (SE) in the isolation of lipophilic bioactive molecules (BAMs) from the oils of different sea buckthorn (SB) berries (Leikora and Ascola). A SB cake, a valuable by-product of oil extraction, was analyzed for phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (AA). For this purpose, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with 70% (v/v) ethanol was optimized, and the following optimal UAE conditions were determined: ultrasonic power of 60%, temperature of 50 °C, and extraction time of 20 min. The individual BAMs in the oils and cake extracts were analyzed chromatographically, while the AAs were determined using the ORAC method. The oils extracted with SC-CO2 had a higher content of lipophilic BAMs and a higher AA value than the oils extracted with SE. Palmitic and palmitoleic acids, β-sitosterol, and α-tocopherol dominated the Leikora oil, while a higher content of oleic, linoleic, and α-linolenic acids and carotenoids was found in the Ascola oil. The highest phenolic content was found in the Ascola cake, with the flavonols isorhamnetin-3-hexoside, isorhamnetin-3-rutinoside, and quercetin-3-glucoside being the most abundant. Oil and cake extracts of the Ascola variety also had a higher AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite extensive research on microbiome alterations in ulcerative colitis (UC), the role of the constituent stable microbiota remains unclear. Results: This study, employing 16S rRNA-gene sequencing, uncovers a persistent microbial imbalance in both active and quiescent UC patients compared to healthy controls. Using co-occurrence and differential abundance analysis, the study highlights microbial constituents, featuring Phocaeicola, Collinsella, Roseburia, Holdemanella, and Bacteroides, that are not affected during the course of UC. Co-cultivation experiments, utilizing commensal Escherichia coli and Phocaeicola vulgatus, were conducted with intestinal epithelial organoids derived from active UC patients and controls. These experiments reveal a tendency for a differential response in tight junction formation and maintenance in colonic epithelial cells, without inducing pathogen recognition and stress responses, offering further insights into the roles of these microorganisms in UC pathogenesis. These experiments also uncover high variation in patients' response to the same bacteria, which indicate the need for more comprehensive, stratified analyses with an expanded sample size. Conclusion: This study reveals that a substantial part of the gut microbiota remains stable throughout progression of UC. Functional experiments suggest that members of core microbiota – Escherichia coli and Phocaeicola vulgatus – potentially differentially regulate the expression of tight junction gene in the colonic epithelium of UC patients and healthy individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frequent colonization and bacterial infection of skin wounds in small animals prevent or impair their healing. However, the broadly applied antimicrobial therapy of wounds is not always necessary and promotes the spread of bacterial resistance. Thus, alternatives to antimicrobial therapy, including preventive measures in the form of wound dressings with antibiotic properties, should be searched for. The aim of this study was to develop a new, efficient, cost-effective and non-toxic formulation with antimicrobial properties to serve as an alternative to antibiotic administration in wound-healing stimulation in companion animals. Nano/microencapsulated ozonated olive oil in a hyaluronan matrix was developed, with ozone concentration high enough to prevent bacterial growth. The presence and size of nano- and microcapsules were determined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial activity of developed formulations was examined in vitro on 101 Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria isolated from the wounds of companion animals. The highest ozone concentration in the developed formulations inhibited the growth of 40.59% bacteria. Species and genus-specific differences in reactions were observed. Enterococcus spp. proved the least susceptible while non-pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria were the most susceptible to the examined formulations. Changes in the bacterial morphology and cell structure of Psychrobacter sanguinis suspension mixed with Ca-stabilized formulations with nano/microencapsulated ozonized olive oil were revealed during SEM observations. The combination of compounds that promote wound healing (hyaluronic acid, olive oil, ozone and calcium) with the antibacterial activity of the developed formula makes it a promising bionanocomposite for use as a topical dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica (SiO2), accounting for the main component of fly ash, plays a vital role in the heterogeneous formation of polychlorinated thianthrenes/dibenzothiophenes (PCTA/DTs) in high-temperature industrial processes. Silica clusters, as the basic units of silica, provide reasonable models to understand the general trends of complex surface reactions. Chlorothiophenols (CTPs) are the most crucial precursors for PCTA/DT formation. By employing density functional theory, this study examined the formation of 2-chlorothiophenolate from 2-CTP adsorbed on the dehydrated silica cluster ((SiO2)3) and the hydroxylated silica cluster ((SiO2)3O2H4). Additionally, this study investigated the formation of pre-PCTA/DTs, the crucial intermediates involved in PCTA/DT formation, from the coupling of two adsorbed 2-chlorothiophenolates via the Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L–H) mechanism and the coupling of adsorbed 2-chlorothiophenolate with gas-phase 2-CTP via the Eley–Rideal (E–R) mechanism on silica clusters. Moreover, the rate constants for the main elementary steps were calculated over the temperature range of 600–1200 K. Our study demonstrates that the 2-CTP is more likely to adsorb on the termination of the dehydrated silica cluster, which exhibits more effective catalysis in the formation of 2-chlorothiophenolate compared with the hydroxylated silica cluster. Moreover, the E–R mechanism mainly contributes to the formation of pre-PCTAs, whereas the L–H mechanism is prone to the formation of pre-PCDTs on dehydrated and hydroxylated silica clusters. Silica can act as a relatively mild catalyst in facilitating the heterogeneous formation of pre-PCTA/DTs from 2-CTP. This research provides new insights into the surface-mediated generation of PCTA/DTs, further providing theoretical foundations to reduce dioxin emission and establish dioxin control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pyrolysis process is a thermochemical conversion reaction that encompasses an intricate array of simultaneous and competitive reactions occurring in oxygen-depleted conditions. The final products of biomass pyrolysis are bio-oil, biochar, and some gases, with their proportions determined by the pyrolysis reaction conditions and technological pathways. Typically, low-temperature slow pyrolysis (reaction temperature below 500 °C) primarily yields biochar, while high-temperature fast pyrolysis (reaction temperature 700–1100 °C) mainly produces combustible gases. In the case of medium-temperature rapid pyrolysis (reaction temperature around 500–650 °C), conducted at very high heating rates and short vapor residence times (usually less than 1 s), the maximum liquid yield can reach up to 85 wt% (on a wet basis) or achieve 70 wt% (on a dry basis), with bio-oil being the predominant product. By employing the pyrolysis technique, valuable utilization of tobacco stem waste enriched with lignin can be achieved, resulting in the production of desired pyrolysis products such as transportation fuels, bio-oil, and ethanol. The present review focuses on catalytic pyrolysis, encompassing catalytic hydropyrolysis and catalytic co-pyrolysis, and meticulously compares the impact of catalyst structure on product distribution. Initially, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent pyrolysis mechanism of lignin and tobacco waste. Subsequently, an in-depth analysis is presented, elucidating how to effectively design the catalyst structure to facilitate the efficient conversion of lignin through pyrolysis. Lastly, we delve into other innovative pyrolysis methods, including microwave-assisted and solar-assisted pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiome is a diverse ecosystem, dominated by bacteria; however, fungi, phages/viruses, archaea, and protozoa are also important members of the gut microbiota. Exploration of taxonomic compositions beyond bacteria as well as an understanding of the interaction between the bacteriome with the other members is limited using 16S rDNA sequencing. Here, we developed a pipeline enabling the simultaneous interrogation of the gut microbiome (bacteriome, mycobiome, archaeome, eukaryome, DNA virome) and of antibiotic resistance genes based on optimized long-read shotgun metagenomics protocols and custom bioinformatics. Using our pipeline we investigated the longitudinal composition of the gut microbiome in an exploratory clinical study in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT; n = 31). Pre-transplantation microbiomes exhibited a 3-cluster structure, characterized by Bacteroides spp. /Phocaeicola spp., mixed composition and Enterococcus abundances. We revealed substantial inter-individual and temporal variabilities of microbial domain compositions, human DNA, and antibiotic resistance genes during the course of alloHSCT. Interestingly, viruses and fungi accounted for substantial proportions of microbiome content in individual samples. In the course of HSCT, bacterial strains were stable or newly acquired. Our results demonstrate the disruptive potential of alloHSCTon the gut microbiome and pave the way for future comprehensive microbiome studies based on long-read metagenomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incomplete biomass burning produces considerable amounts of pyrogenic carbonaceous materials (PCMs), which are widely distributed in environmental matrices. Those PCMs undergo different environmental processes and consequently have non-negligible impacts on the global carbon cycle, ecological functions and environmental security. This review provided a comprehensive review of qualitative and quantitative methods, carbon sequestration capabilities and other ecosystem functions of PCMs. In addition, the generation mechanism and environmental health risks of emerging contaminants, especially persistent free radicals (EPFRs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) associated with PCMs were discussed. The results showed that the coexisting kerogen and coal may interfere with PCMs quantification, and that estimates of PCMs pools vary significantly due to methodological differences, natural variability and limited spatial coverage. The input of PCMs into soils increased soil carbon sequestration through direct carbon contribution and indirect negative priming effect on native SOC. In addition, PCMs can improve soil structure and properties and immobilize/degrade pollutants, which is conducive to the restoration of soil ecology. However, various contaminants associated with PCMs may threaten ecological safety, and thus their formation mechanisms and toxicological pathway to living organisms need to be further investigated. The development of standards for PCMs identification and quantification, application protocols of PCMs in pilot scale, and assessing the effects of PCMs on soil health deserve extended studies. Highlights: • Accurate quantification of PCMs in complex environmental matrix is the key to evaluating their behavior and implication. • PCMs increase SOC via direct carbon input and negative priming effect, which is not well considered in carbon cycling. • The formation and toxicity of emerging pollutants associated with PCMs in real environment need to be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) has been widely used to explore genetic controls of phenotypic traits. Alternatively, GWAS can use counts of substrings of length k from longer sequencing reads, k-mers, as genotyping data. Using maize cob and kernel color traits, we demonstrated that k-mer GWAS can effectively identify associated k-mers. Co-expression analysis of kernel color k-mers and genes directly found k-mers from known causal genes. Analyzing complex traits of kernel oil and leaf angle resulted in k-mers from both known and candidate genes. A gene encoding a MADS transcription factor was functionally validated by showing that ectopic expression of the gene led to less upright leaves. Evolution analysis revealed most k-mers positively correlated with kernel oil were strongly selected against in maize populations, while most k-mers for upright leaf angle were positively selected. In addition, genomic prediction of kernel oil, leaf angle, and flowering time using k-mer data resulted in a similarly high prediction accuracy to the standard SNP-based method. Collectively, we showed k-mer GWAS is a powerful approach for identifying trait-associated genetic elements. Further, our results demonstrated the bridging role of k-mers for data integration and functional gene discovery., (© 2024 Society for Experimental Biology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Escherichia coli is a major bacterial pathogen which causes diarrhea in the giant panda. This study investigated the biological characteristics of 100 E. coli strains isolated from fecal samples collected from 100 captive giant pandas of different age groups and sexes. A standard Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed with the isolates and we then further evaluated the antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) by high-throughput quantitative PCR. Additionally, we then analyzed O serogroups through a slide agglutination test, virulence genes and the multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) by PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that the 100 E. coli strains were mainly resistant to ENR (68%), AM (56%), IPM (55%), AMX (54%) and CA (52%), but were susceptible to MEM and FOX. The resistance to TZP, AK, FEP, CAZ, AMS, AZM, AT and IPM was significantly related to age (p < 0.05); the resistance rate of E. coli isolated from female giant pandas to N was significantly higher than in males (p < 0.05). Fortyfive different types of ARGs were found, which included a total of 2,258 ARGs, in the 100 E. coli isolates. The top 10 of detection rate of ARGs were: acrA-04, acrA-05, aacC, blaCTX-M-04, ampC-04, blaSHV-01, blaTEM, sul2, blaOXY, tetA-02. ARGs aac (6') I1, blaCTX-M-03, tetD-02, blaSHV-02 and blaOXY were significantly related to age (p < 0.05), blaSHV-02, blaNDM and ampC-04 were related to sex (p < 0.05). Twelve different O serogroups from 32 E. coli isolates were distinguished, including O4, O8, O9, O15, O18, O20, O55, O88, O112, O157, O158, and O167. The most prevalent O serotype was O20, but O28, O45, O101, O149, and O152 were not detected. Fourteen different types of virulence genes were detected in the 100 E. coli isolates, of which papA (99%) were highly detected, while hlyA, elt and estA were not detected. MLST showed that 41 STs, which had one CCs and six groups with SLVs, in the 100 E. coli strains were identified, the main type was ST37. Our results advocate the need of strict biosecurity and surveillance programs in order to prevent the spread of pathogenic bacteria in the captive giant panda population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette smoke is a source of free radicals that cause health problems throughout the world. The study aimed to determine the effects of hydro- ethanolic extract of Euphorbia hirta leaves extract (EHLE) on hemato-biochemical changes in cigarette smoke exposed (CSE) rats. The study using 24 male Wistar rats consisted of Control (not exposed to cigarette smoke and given distilled water), group II Diseased group (cigarette smoke and given distilled water), group III treated group (Cigarette smoke and Euphorbia hirta leaves extract 200 mg/kg BW) and group IV plant alone (Euphorbia hirta leaves extract 200 mg/kg BW alone). Exposure to cigarette smoke and administration of extracts was carried out for 12 weeks. End of the experimental period, the rats were euthanized and dissected to collect the blood for hematobiochemical studies. The results of the study showed that treatment with Euphorbia hirta leaves extract to CSE rats restored the hematological parameters, liver and kidney markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objectives: Despite the quantum of research findings on tobacco epidemic, a review on the formation characteristics of nicotine, aldehydes and phenols, and their associated etiological risks is still limited in literature. Accordingly, knowledge on the chemical properties and free radical formation during tobacco burning is an important subject towards unravelling the relationship between smoking behaviour and disease. This review investigates how scientific efforts have been advanced towards understanding the release of molecular products from the thermal degradation of tobacco, and harm reduction strategies among cigarette smokers in general. The mechanistic characteristics of nicotine and selected aldehydes are critically examined in this review. For the purpose of this work, articles published during the period 2004-2021 and archived in PubMed, Google Scholar, Medley, Cochrane, and Web of Science were used. The articles were selected based on the health impacts of cigarette smoking, tobacco burning kinetics, tobacco cessation and tobacco as a precursor for emerging diseases such as Covid-19., Content: The toxicity of cigarette smoke is directly correlated with its chemical composition derived from the pyrolysis of tobacco stem and leaves. Most of the harmful toxic substances are generated by pyrolysis during smoking and depends on pyrolysis conditions. Detailed studies have been conducted on the kinetics of nicotine by use of robust theoretical models in order to determine the rate constants of reactions in nicotine and those of nicotine dissociation via C-C and C-N scission, yielding pyridinyl and methyl radicals, respectively. Research has suggested that acetaldehyde enhances the effect of nicotine, which in turn reinforces addiction characteristics whereas acrolein and crotonaldehyde are ciliatoxic, and can inhibit lung clearance. On the other hand, phenol affects liver enzymes, lungs, kidneys, and the cardiovascular system while m -cresol attacks the nervous system., Summary and Outlook: The characteristics of chemical release during tobacco burning are very important in the tobacco industry and the cigarette smoking community. Understanding individual chemical formation from cigarette smoking will provide the necessary information needed to formulate sound tobacco reform policies from a chemical standpoint. Nonetheless, intense research is needed in this field in order to prescribe possible measures to deter cigarette smoking addiction and ameliorate the grave miseries bedevilling the tobacco smoking community., (© 2022 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

Environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) are an emerging class of environmental hazardous contaminants that extensively, stably exist in airborne particulate matter and pose harmful effects on human health. However, there was little research about the sources of EPFRs in actual atmospheric conditions. This study reported the occurrence, characteristics, and sources of EPFRs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM 2.5 collected in Dalian, China. The concentrations of PM 2.5 -bound EPFRs ranged from 1.13 × 10 13 to 8.97 × 10 15 spins/m 3 (mean value: 1.14 × 10 15 spins/m 3 ). Carbon-centered radicals and carbon-centered radicals with adjacent oxygen atoms were detected. The concentration of ∑PAHs ranged from 1.09 to 76.24 ng/m 3 , and PAHs with high molecular weight (HMW) were predominant species in PM 2.5 . Correlation of EPFRs with SO 2 , NO 2 , O 3 , and 12 kinds of PAHs indicated that both fuel (coal and biomass) combustion and photoreaction in atmosphere influenced the concentrations of EPFR. The positive matrix factorization (PMF) model results have shown that the primary sources contributed most of the EPFRs and those of secondary sources had a little proportion. Coal combustion (52.4%) was the primary contributor of EPFRs, followed by traffic emission (22.6%), industrial sources (9.6%), and secondary sources (9.2%) during the heating period, whereas industrial emission (39.2%) was the primary contributor, followed by coal combustion (38.1%), vehicular exhaust (23.5%), and secondary sources (9.6%) during the non-heating period. The finding of the present study provides an important evidence for further study on the formation mechanism of EPFRs in actual atmospheric to control the air pollution., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Akkermansia muciniphila is a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, which represents a part of the commensal human microbiota. Decline in the abundance of A. muciniphila among other microbial species in the gut correlates with severe systemic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer. Due to its mucin-reducing and immunomodulatory properties, the use of probiotics containing Akkermansia sp. appears as a promising approach to the treatment of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. In particular, a number of studies have focused on the role of A. muciniphila in colorectal cancer. Of note, the results of these studies in mice are contradictory: some reported a protective role of A. muciniphila in colorectal cancer, while others demonstrated that administration of A. muciniphila could aggravate the course of the disease resulting in increased tumor burden. More recent studies suggested the immunomodulatory effect of certain unique surface antigens of A. muciniphila on the intestinal immune system. In this Perspective, we attempt to explain how A. muciniphila contributes to protection against colorectal cancer in some models, while being pathogenic in others. We argue that differences in the experimental protocols of administration of A. muciniphila, as well as viability of bacteria, may significantly affect the results. In addition, we hypothesize that antigens presented by pasteurized bacteria or live A. muciniphila may exert distinct effects on the barrier functions of the gut. Finally, A. muciniphila may reduce the mucin barrier and exerts combined effects with other bacterial species in either promoting or inhibiting cancer development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Vascularized fibula flap transplantation is the most effective and common method to repair the jaw defects. In addition, implantation is the first choice to restore dentition on the graft fibula. Implants are usually implanted at least 6 months after fibula transplantation. Primary implantation of implants during surgery can restore the dentition earlier, but whether this method can achieve the same restorative effect as secondary implantation is still uncertain. This article aims to compare the survival rate and complications between primary and secondary implantation through meta-analysis. Methods: This meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA protocol and the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Interventions. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we selected the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese BioMedical Literature Database (CBM) according to established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was conducted to compare the survival rate and postoperative infection rate of primary and secondary implantation. Results: Seven studies were involved in our research, involving 186 patients. Five of the studies detailed implant success in 106 patients (primary implantation 50, secondary implantation 56), and four studies documented infection after implantation in 117 patients (primary implantation 52, secondary implantation 65); the survival rate of the primary implantation was 93.3%, and the incidence of postoperative infection was 17.3%. The survival rate of the secondary implantation was 93.4%, and 23.1% had postoperative infection. Meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the survival rate between primary implantation and secondary implantation, OR = 0.813 (95% CI 0.383–1.725, P = 0.589 > 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative infection, OR = 0.614 (95% CI 0.239–1.581, P = 0.312 > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, the research found no significant difference in the survival rate or infection rates between primary and secondary implantation. After appropriate indications selection, primary implantation can be used to reconstruct the dentition with less waiting time, reduce the impact of radiotherapy, and bring a higher quality of life for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanometals constitute a rapidly growing area of research within nanotechnology. Nanosilver and nanogold exhibit significant antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anticancer properties. The size and shape of nanoparticles are critical for determining their antimicrobial activity. In this study, silver and gold nanoparticles were synthesized within a hyaluronic acid matrix utilizing distilled water and distilled water treated with low-pressure, low-temperature glow plasma in an environment of air and argon. Electron microscopy, UV-Vis and FTIR spectra, water, and mechanical measurements were conducted to investigate the properties of nanometallic composites. This study also examined their microbiological properties. This study demonstrated that the properties of the composites differed depending on the preparation conditions, encompassing physicochemical and microbiological properties. The application of plasma-treated water under both air and argon had a significant effect on the size and distribution of nanometals. Silver nanoparticles were obtained between the range of 5 to 25 nm, while gold nanoparticles varied between 10 to 35 nm. The results indicate that the conditions under which silver and gold nanoparticles are produced have a significant effect on their mechanical and antibacterial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Microbes are increasingly (re)considered for environmental assessments because they are powerful indicators for the health of ecosystems. The complexity of microbial communities necessitates powerful novel tools to derive conclusions for environmental decision-makers, and machine learning is a promising option in that context. While amplicon sequencing is typically applied to assess microbial communities, metagenomics and total RNA sequencing (herein summarized as omics-based methods) can provide a more holistic picture of microbial biodiversity at sufficient sequencing depths. Despite this advantage, amplicon sequencing and omics-based methods have not yet been compared for taxonomy-based environmental assessments with machine learning. Methods: In this study, we applied 16S and ITS-2 sequencing, metagenomics, and total RNA sequencing to samples from a stream mesocosm experiment that investigated the impacts of two aquatic stressors, insecticide and increased fine sediment deposition, on stream biodiversity. We processed the data using similarity clustering and denoising (only applicable to amplicon sequencing) as well as multiple taxonomic levels, data types, feature selection, and machine learning algorithms and evaluated the stressor prediction performance of each generated model for a total of 1,536 evaluated combinations of taxonomic datasets and data-processing methods. Results: Sequencing and data-processing methods had a substantial impact on stressor prediction. While omics-based methods detected a higher diversity of taxa than amplicon sequencing, 16S sequencing outperformed all other sequencing methods in terms of stressor prediction based on the Matthews Correlation Coefficient. However, even the highest observed performance for 16S sequencing was still only moderate. Omics-based methods performed poorly overall, but this was likely due to insufficient sequencing depth. Data types had no impact on performance while feature selection significantly improved performance for omicsbased methods but not for amplicon sequencing. Discussion: We conclude that amplicon sequencing might be a better candidate for machine-learning-based environmental stressor prediction than omics-based methods, but the latter require further research at higher sequencing depths to confirm this conclusion. More sampling could improve stressor prediction performance, and while this was not possible in the context of our study, thousands of sampling sites are monitored for routine environmental assessments, providing an ideal framework to further refine the approach for possible implementation in environmental diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]