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DNA methylation in insects is integral to cellular differentiation, development, gene regulation, genome integrity, and phenotypic plasticity. However, its evolutionary potential and involvement in facilitating rapid adaptations in insects are enigmatic. Moreover, our understanding of these mechanisms is limited to a few insect species, of which none are pests of crops. Hence, we studied methylation patterns in the brown planthopper (BPH), a major rice pest, under pesticide and nutritional stress, across its life stages. Moreover, as the inheritance of epigenetic changes is fundamentally essential for acclimation, adaptability, and evolution, we determined the heritability and persistence of stress-induced methylation marks in BPH across generations. Our results revealed that DNA methylation pattern(s) in BPH varies/vary with environmental cues and is/are insect life-stage specific. Further, our findings provide novel insights into the heritability of stress-induced methylation marks in BPH. However, it was observed that, though heritable, these marks eventually fade in the absence of the stressors, thereby suggesting the existence of fitness cost(s) associated with the maintenance of the stressed epigenotype. Furthermore, we demonstrate how 5-azacytidine-mediated disruption of BPH methylome influences expression levels of stress-responsive genes and, thereby, highlight demethylation/methylation as a phenomenon underlying stress resilience of BPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanisation development affects urban vegetation both directly and indirectly. Since this process usually involves a dramatic change in land use, it is seen as likely to cause ecological pressure on local ecosystems. All forms of human activity, including urbanisation of areas close to residential buildings, significantly impact air quality. This study aims to identify and characterise different measurement solutions of VOCs, allowing the quantification of total and selective compounds in a direct at source (in situ) manner. Portable devices for direct testing can generally be divided into detectors, chromatographs, and electronic noses. They differ in parameters such as operating principle, sensitivity, measurement range, response time, and selectivity. Direct research allows us to obtain measurement results in a short time, which is essential from the point of view of immediate reaction in the case of high concentrations of tested compounds and the possibility of ensuring the well-being of people. The paper also attempts to compare solutions and devices available on the market and assess their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Benefits of bilateral cochlear implants (CI) may be compromised by delays to implantation of either ear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sequential bilateral CI use in children who received their first CI at young ages, using a clinical set-up. Methods: One-channel cortical auditory evoked potentials and speech perception in quiet and noise were evoked at repeated times (0, 3, 6, 12 months of bilateral CI use) by unilateral and bilateral stimulation in 28 children with early-onset deafness. These children were unilaterally implanted before 3.69 years of age (mean ± SD of 1.98 ± 0.73 years) and received a second CI after 5.13 ± 2.37 years of unilateral CI use. Comparisons between unilaterally evoked responses were used to measure asymmetric function between the ears and comparisons between bilateral responses and each unilateral response were used to measure the bilateral benefit. Results: Chronic bilateral CI promoted changes in cortical auditory responses and speech perception performance; however, large asymmetries were present between the two unilateral responses despite ongoing bilateral CI use. Persistent cortical differences between the two sides at 1 year of bilateral stimulation were predicted by increasing age at the first surgery and inter-implant delay. Larger asymmetries in speech perception occurred with longer inter-implant delays. Bilateral responses were more similar to the unilateral responses from the first rather than the second CI. Conclusion: These findings are consistent with the development of the aural preference syndrome and reinforce the importance of providing bilateral CIs simultaneously or sequentially with very short delays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural killer (NK) cells play roles in viral clearance and early surveillance against malignant transformation, yet our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms controlling their development and functions remain incomplete. To reveal cell fate-determining pathways in NK cell progenitors (NKP), we utilized an unbiased approach and generated comprehensive gene expression profiles of NK cell progenitors. We found that the NK cell program was gradually established in the CLP to preNKP and preNKP to rNKP transitions. In line with FOXO1 and FOXO3 being co-expressed through the NK developmental trajectory, the loss of both perturbed the establishment of the NK cell program and caused stalling in both NK cell development and maturation. In addition, we found that the combined loss of FOXO1 and FOXO3 caused specific changes to the composition of the non-cytotoxic innate lymphoid cell (ILC) subsets in bone marrow, spleen, and thymus. By combining transcriptome and chromatin profiling, we revealed that FOXO TFs ensure proper NK cell development at various lineage-commitment stages through orchestrating distinct molecular mechanisms. Combined FOXO1 and FOXO3 deficiency in common and innate lymphoid cell progenitors resulted in reduced expression of genes associated with NK cell development including ETS-1 and their downstream target genes. Lastly, we found that FOXO1 and FOXO3 controlled the survival of committed NK cells via gene regulation of IL-15Rβ (CD122) on rNKPs and bone marrow NK cells. Overall, we revealed that FOXO1 and FOXO3 function in a coordinated manner to regulate essential developmental genes at multiple stages during murine NK cell and ILC lineage commitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frankliniella fusca Hinds (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is an economically important pest of many cultivated crops including cotton, tomatoes, peppers and tobacco. Previous research has focused on the importance of non‐crop weeds for F. fusca populations when estimating crop infestation risk in the spring. Although weeds play an integral role in population development, early‐season cultivated hosts (e.g. wheat and sage) may also contribute and augment overall populations. Few studies have examined the role of early‐season crops as a source habitat for sensitive host crops later in the season. The goal of this study was to investigate the abiotic conditions and landscape components that are associated with F. fusca populations in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Exploring these relationships will provide insight into early‐season drivers of F. fusca. To do this, we conducted a 2 year study documenting F. fusca populations during an 8 weeks period each spring. We sampled immature thrips abundance on wheat heads while concurrently monitoring adult dispersal from the field using yellow sticky cards. Across both years, we found that immature thrips sampled during the milk and dough development stages best‐predicted adult dispersal 2 weeks later. Cumulative precipitation and the number of precipitation events beginning in the autumn of the prior year were the most important abiotic predictors of F. fusca abundance. At the landscape scale, adult F. fusca density was negatively related to the area of row crop agriculture, grasslands and amount of landscape fragmentation. Results of our study provide a basis to assess larval thrips and forecast dispersal of this pest from wheat using a head sampling method. At a landscape scale, we show that specific combinations of abiotic and landscape variables influence population abundance of F. fusca in North Carolina row crop agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enriched tungsten disulfide (186WS2) was evaluated at increasing proton beam currents (20–50 μA) and times (up to 4 h) on a GE PETtrace cyclotron for production of high specific activity (HSA) 186Re. The HSA 186Re was separated from the irradiated target as [186Re][ReO4]– by a liquid–liquid extraction method and radiolabeled with a new N2S2 ligand (222-MAMA-N-ethylpropionate). The enriched 186W was recovered from the extraction process, analyzed for purity and enrichment, and converted back to the disulfide (186WS2). The results demonstrate that the 186WS2 is an easily pressed target material that can withstand relatively high currents and can be readily recovered and recycled. The 186Re produced was isolated in high specific activity and readily formed the radiotracers [186Re][ReO(222-MAMA-N-ethylpropionate)] and [186Re][Re(CO)3(OH2)3] +. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nepeta menthoides Boiss. & Buhse and Melissa officinalis are extensively used in Persian medicine for the treatment of depression. Considering the active ingredients and main phenolic compounds of these plants and possible synergistic effects, this study examined the antidepressant and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of N. menthoides (NM) and M. officinalis (MO) in reserpinized mice alone and combination. Mice were pretreated orally for 1‐week with normal saline (10 ml/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg), imipramine (10 mg/kg), NM (50–100–200–400 mg/kg), MO (150–350–550–750 mg/kg), and combination (NM 50 with MO 150 mg/kg). The behavioral changes were evaluated using forced swim, tail suspension, and open field tests, 24 hr after reserpine injection (4 mg/kg) on eighth day. The amounts of active components in the extracts and catalase (CAT) as a brain oxidative stress were measured with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Data showed that this combination produced a synergistic action on behaviors and a significant increase in CAT activity. High‐performance liquid chromatography results showed that rosmarinic acid contents in MO and NM were 6.42 ± 1.1 and 11.03 ± 2.16 mg/g of dried extract, respectively. Total flavonoid and phenolic contents of MO were higher than NM. The findings suggest that the present combination produces an antidepressant‐like effect, which is possibly triggered by its antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic homeostasis is coordinated through a robust network of signaling pathways acting across all tissues. A key part of this network is insulin-like signaling, which is fundamental for surviving glucose stress. Here, we show that Caenorhabditis elegans fed excess dietary glucose reduce insulin-1 (INS-1) expression specifically in the BAG glutamatergic sensory neurons. We demonstrate that INS-1 expression in the BAG neurons is directly controlled by the transcription factor ETS-5, which is also down-regulated by glucose. We further find that INS-1 acts exclusively from the BAG neurons, and not other INS-1-expressing neurons, to systemically inhibit fat storage via the insulin-like receptor DAF-2. Together, these findings reveal an intertissue regulatory pathway where regulation of insulin expression in a specific neuron controls systemic metabolism in response to excess dietary glucose. Metabolic homeostasis is coordinated through a robust network of signaling pathways acting across all tissues. This study shows that Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes fed excess dietary glucose reduce the expression of insulin-1 specifically in the BAG glutamatergic sensory neurons, and that insulin-1 produced by these neurons systemically inhibits fat storage via the insulin-like receptor DAF-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular, small invertebrate and vertebrate models are a driving force in biogerontology studies. Using various models, such as yeasts, appropriate tissue culture cells, Drosophila, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and the mouse, has tremendously increased our knowledge around the relationship between diet, nutrient-response signaling pathways and lifespan regulation. In recent years, combinatorial drug treatments combined with mutagenesis, high-throughput screens, as well as multi-omics approaches, have provided unprecedented insights in cellular metabolism, development, differentiation, and aging. Scientists are, therefore, moving towards characterizing the fine architecture and cross-talks of growth and stress pathways towards identifying possible interventions that could lead to healthy aging and the amelioration of age-related diseases in humans. In this short review, we briefly examine recently uncovered knowledge around nutrient-response pathways, such as the Insulin Growth Factor (IGF) and the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin signaling pathways, as well as specific GWAS and some EWAS studies on lifespan and age-related disease that have enhanced our current understanding within the aging and biogerontology fields. We discuss what is learned from the rich and diverse generated data, as well as challenges and next frontiers in these scientific disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Both forkhead box O (FOXO) and nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐like‐2 (Nrf2) are key transcription factors related to stress responses. Whereas limited studies in mammals and Caenorhabditis elegans have revealed the interaction between FoxO/DAF‐16 and Nrf2/SKN‐1, the role of FOXO in metabolic detoxification and regulation of the Nrf2–Keap1 signaling pathway are poorly understood in insects. RESULTS: Using Tribolium castaneum as a model organism, we found that RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of FOXO enhanced deltamethrin‐induced lethality by affecting the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of CYP6BQ cluster genes. We further demonstrated that injection of dsFOXO into the beetle larvae decreased expression of CncC and KEAP1 at both the mRNA and protein level. Notably, dual‐luciferase and electrophoretic mobility shift assays both confirmed direct regulation of CncC by FOXO, whereas Keap1 was directly regulated by CncC. CONCLUSION: FOXO can directly regulate the expression of CncC and indirectly regulate the expression of Keap1 through CncC. The data provide insights into the regulatory mechanisms of the Nrf2–Keap1 signaling pathway in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the extraction of deep ocean travel time variations from time‐lapse cross‐correlations between a hydrophone station and a three‐component broadband seismometer. The signals we cross‐correlate in this study result from repeated activity by the Monowai seamount, one of the most active submarine volcanoes of the Tonga‐Kermadec ridge. In particular, we introduce a specific workflow to exploit repetitive hydroacoustic underwater source activity, which we detail to such an extent that it serves as an example (or "cookbook"). For this reason, we have made the source code publicly available. The workflow proposed in this study (a) overcomes differences in instrument sensitivity and sample rates, (b) involves the selection of eligible cross‐correlations based on a source activity criterium as well as slowness analysis, and (c) extracts the travel time variations in distinct frequency bands. In our case, the two frequency bands are 3–6 and 6–12 Hz. We find that the estimated travel time variations in both frequency bands consist of a complex periodic pattern superimposed on a robust linear trend. This linear trend is decreasing, which we attribute to increasing water temperatures along the propagation path of the hydroacoustic signals. Plain Language Summary: We extract variations in the ocean travel time between submerged microphones and a seismometer on an island. The signals in this study result from repeated activity by the Monowai seamount, one of the most active submarine volcanoes of the Tonga‐Kermadec ridge. The travel time variations result from a time‐lapse similarity analysis. In particular, we introduce a specific workflow to exploit repetitive underwater source activity. We detail it to such an extent that it serves as an example (or "cookbook"). For this reason, we have made the source code publicly available. The workflow proposed in this study (a) overcomes discrepancies in instrument sensitivity and sampling rates, (b) involves the selection of qualified signals based on a source activity criterium as well as directional analysis, and (c) extracts the travel time variations in distinct frequency bands. The estimated travel time variations consist of a complex periodic pattern superimposed on a robust linear trend. Moreover, this linear trend is decreasing, which we attribute to increasing water temperatures along the propagation path of the hydroacoustic signals. Key Points: Travel time variations extracted from time‐lapse cross‐correlations between a hydrophone station and a three‐component broadband seismometerFrequency‐dependent acoustic travel time serves as path‐averaged temperature changes in the Sound Fixing and Ranging channelSelecting eligible cross‐correlations by source activity and slowness estimation is crucial for extracting reliable oceanic travel times [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the dynamical behaviors for a diffusive virus infection model with two general nonlinear incidence functions, CTL immune impairment and discrete delays, are investigated. Cell-to-cell transmission plays a more important role in virus spreading in addition to virus-to-cell infection. Nonnegativity and boundcedness properties of the solutions are proven to show the well-posedness of the model. Five reproduction numbers are calculated and verified to be thresholds determining the global properties of the virus model. A significant impact of cell-to-cell transmission is that they increase the basic reproduction number. If one neglects either the cell-to-cell transmission or virus-to-cell infection, the basic reproduction number of the model is underevaluated. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the dynamical behavior of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers and plastics are crucial materials in many sectors of our economy, due to their numerous advantages. They also have some disadvantages, among the most important are problems with the recycling and disposal of used plastics. The recovery of waste plastics is increasing every year, but over 27% of plastics are landfilled. The rest is recycled, where, unfortunately, incineration is still the most common management method. From an economic perspective, waste management methods that lead to added-value products are most preferred—as in the case of material and chemical recycling. Since chemical recycling can be used for difficult wastes (poorly selected, contaminated), it seems to be the most effective way of managing these materials. Moreover, as a result this of kind of recycling, it is possible to obtain commercially valuable products, such as fractions for fuel composition and monomers for the reproduction of polymers. This review focuses on various liquefaction technologies as a prospective recycling method for three types of plastic waste: PE, PP and PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TOPIIA topoisomerases are required for the regulation of DNA topology by DNA cleavage and re-ligation and are important targets of antibiotic and anticancer agents. Humans possess two TOPIIA paralogue genes (TOP2A and TOP2B) with high sequence and structural similarity but distinct cellular functions. Despite their functional and clinical relevance, the evolutionary history of TOPIIA is still poorly understood. Here we show that TOPIIA is highly conserved in Metazoa. We also found that TOPIIA paralogues from jawed and jawless vertebrates had different origins related with tetraploidization events. After duplication, TOP2B evolved under a stronger purifying selection than TOP2A, perhaps promoted by the more specialized role of TOP2B in postmitotic cells. We also detected genetic signatures of positive selection in the highly variable C-terminal domain (CTD), possibly associated with adaptation to cellular interactions. By comparing TOPIIA from modern and archaic humans, we found two amino acid substitutions in the TOP2A CTD, suggesting that TOP2A may have contributed to the evolution of present-day humans, as proposed for other cell cycle-related genes. Finally, we identified six residues conferring resistance to chemotherapy differing between TOP2A and TOP2B. These six residues could be targets for the development of TOP2A-specific inhibitors that would avoid the side effects caused by inhibiting TOP2B. Altogether, our findings clarify the origin, diversification and selection pressures governing the evolution of animal TOPIIA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department 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.)

Several new drugs are progressively improving the life span of patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, the rapidly evolving standard of care precludes robust assessments of the incremental clinical value of further innovative drugs. Therefore, we systematically reviewed comparative evidence on newly authorized CLL drugs, as reported by standard and network meta-analyses (MA) published since 2016. Overall, 17 MAs addressed the relative survival or safety of naïve and/or refractory/relapsed (R/R) CLL patients. In R/R patients, therapies including BTK- and BCL2-inhibitors reported progression free survival (PFS) hazard ratios ranging from 0.08 to 0.24 (versus chemotherapy) and a significant advantage in overall survival (OS). In naïve patients, the PFS hazard ratios associated with four recent chemo-free therapies (obinutuzumab- and/or acalabrutinib-based) ranged from 0.11 to 0.61 versus current standard treatments (STs), without a significant OS advantage. Ten MAs addressed the risk of cardiovascular, bleeding, and infective events associated with BTK inhibitors, with some reporting a different relative safety in naïve and R/R patients. In conclusion, last-generation therapies for CLL consistently increase PFS, but not OS, and minimally decrease safety, as compared with STs. Based on available evidence, the patient-customized adoption of new therapies, rather than universal recommendations, seems desirable in CLL patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raises questions about the effective inactivation of its causative agent, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in medical wastewater by disinfectants. For this reason, our study of wastewater from a selected hospital evaluated several different advanced oxidation methods (Fenton reaction and Fenton-like reaction and ferrate (VI)) capable of effectively removing SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The obtained results of all investigated oxidation processes, such as ferrates, Fenton reaction and its modifications achieved above 90% efficiency in degradation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in model water. The efficiency of degradation of real SARS-CoV-2 from hospital wastewater declines in following order ferrate (VI) > Fenton reaction > Fenton-like reaction. Similarly, the decrease of chemical oxygen demand compared to effluent was observed. Therefore, all of these methods can be used as a replacement of chlorination at the wastewater effluent, which appeared to be insufficient in SARS-CoV-2 removal (60%), whereas using of ferrates showed efficiency of up to 99%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a continuous process over time that is mainly related to natural alterations in mechanical–biological processes. This phenomenon is due to several factors, including the time and energy of biological processes. Aging can be attributed to biological factors such as oxidative stress, cell longevity, and stem cell senescence. Currently, aging is associated with several diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and other diseases related to oxidative stress. In addition, certain natural molecules, including those derived from vegetables, have shown the ability to delay the aging process. Their effects are linked to different mechanisms of action, such as tissue regeneration and the activation of longevity and anti-senescence genes. The present work discusses the impact of vegetables, and bioactive compounds isolated from vegetables, against the physiological and pathological aging process and accompanying human diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with phytochemical, pharmacological (In vitro antioxidant), purification and characterization studies of aerial parts of Avicennia alba. The phytochemical analysis for qualitative and quantitative investigation revealed the presence of more bioactive compounds in methanolic extract than hexane and chloroform extracts of Avicennia alba. The methanolic extract showed better activity on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical than remaining free radical tests i.e hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical. The methanolic extract was potent in inhibiting the free radicals upon comparison with standard ascorbic acid. The tuberculosis effect of the plant was not up to the mark when compared with standard control. The methanolic plant extract was subjected to column chromatography and three compounds were isolated. The isolated compounds were characterized by ultraviolet, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, carbon nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectral data studies and were identified as stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol and lupeol. The work carried out was distinctive as the source of plant was taken from coringa mangrove, Kakinada, first of its kind and the tuberculosis effect was also reported for the first time, though it was not up to the mark the work reported inspires the researcher to enlighten and save their time. The natural compounds selected were reported previously but an in depth characterization was reported for a thorough look. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury due to light chain cast nephropathy is increasingly recognised in patients with haematological malignancies; however, the management and prognosis of this disease remain poorly understood. We describe a case of a 78-year-old woman with known chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) who presented with fatigue and weight loss. She was found to have acute kidney injury, which rapidly worsened during admission. Kidney biopsy showed light chain cast nephropathy and bone marrow biopsy confirmed B-cell CLL. She was started on ibrutinib, halting further deterioration in her renal function and avoiding renal replacement therapy in the first 8 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterised by symmetric inflammatory polyarthritis. However, RA limited to a single joint is extremely rare. Here, we report a middle-aged woman who presented with insidious right elbow arthritis. She had no other peripheral joint pain, tenderness or swelling. She had high-positive anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. An MRI of the right elbow showed capsular distension, joint effusion and bone marrow oedema. Synovial biopsy revealed hyperplasia with lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate consistent with RA. Therapy with methotrexate 7.5 mg orally weekly was effective to control her inflammatory arthritis. This case highlights the relevance of synovial tissue analysis for patients presenting with chronic inflammatory monarthritis when the cause is not clinically evident, and the importance of considering RA even in the absence of polyarticular involvement. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory monarthritis can lead to joint destruction and disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Obesity and its related metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, are major risk factors for morbidity and mortality in the world population. In this context, supplementation with the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL1 (CECT8145) has been shown to ameliorate obesity biomarkers. Analyzing the basis of this observation and using the pre‐clinical model Caenorhabditis elegans, we have found that lipoteichoic acid (LTA) of BPL1 is responsible for its fat‐reducing properties and that this attribute is preserved under hyperglycaemic conditions. This fat‐reducing capacity of both BPL1 and LTA‐BPL1 is abolished under glucose restriction, as a result of changes in LTA chemical composition. Moreover, we have demonstrated that LTA exerts this function through the IGF‐1 pathway, as does BPL1 strain. These results open the possibility of using LTA as a novel postbiotic, whose beneficial properties can be applied therapeutically and/or preventively in metabolic syndrome and diabetes‐related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since CO2 is a primary input for crop growth, there is interest in how increasing atmospheric CO2 will affect crop productivity and alter cropping system management. Effects of elevated CO2 on grain and residue production will be influenced by crop selection. This field study evaluated soybean [C3;Glycine max(L.)Merr.] and grain sorghum [C4;Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench.] cropping systems managed under conservation tillage practices and two atmospheric CO2 concentrations (ambient and twice ambient) for three growing seasons. Elevated CO2 increased soybean and sorghum yield by 53% and 17% increase, respectively; reductions in whole plant water use were also greater for soybean than sorghum. These findings suggest that increasing CO2 could improve future food security, especially in soybean production systems. Elevated CO2 increased aboveground residue production by > 35% for both crops; such shifts could complement conservation management by increasing soil surface cover, thereby reducing soil erosion. However, increased residue could negatively impact crop stand establishment and implement effectiveness during tillage operations. Elevated CO2 increased total belowground dry weight for both crops; increased root proliferation may alter soil structural characteristics (e.g., due to increased number and extent of root channels) which could lead to increases in porosity, infiltration rates, and subsequent soil water storage. Nitrate leaching was reduced during the growing season (due to increased N capture by high CO2-grown crops), and also during the fallow period (likely a result of altered decomposition patterns due to increased C:N ratios of the high CO2-grown material). Enhanced crop growth (both above- and belowground) under elevated CO2 suggests greater delivery of C to soil, more soil surface residue, and greater percent ground coverage which could reduce soil C losses, increase soil C storage, and help ameliorate the rise in atmospheric CO2. Results from this study suggests that the biodegradability of crop residues and soil C storage may not only be affected by the environment they were produced in but may also be species dependent. To more fully elucidate the relationships between crop productivity, nutrient cycling, and decomposition of plant materials produced in elevated CO2 environments, future studies must address species effects (including use of genetically modified crops) and must also consider other factors such as cover crops, crop rotations, soil series, tillage practices, weed management, and regional climatic differences. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Since CO2 is a primary input for crop growth, there is interest in how increasing atmospheric CO2 will affect crop productivity and alter cropping system management. Effects of elevated CO2 on grain and residue production will be influenced by crop selection. This field study evaluated soybean [C3; Glycine max(L.) Merr.] and grain sorghum [C4; Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.] cropping systems managed under conservation tillage practices and two atmospheric CO2 concentrations (ambient and twice ambient) for three growing seasons. Elevated CO2 increased soybean and sorghum yield by 53% and 17% increase, respectively; reductions in whole plant water use were also greater for soybean than sorghum. These findings suggest that increasing CO2 could improve future food security, especially in soybean production systems. Elevated CO2 increased aboveground residue production by > 35% for both crops; such shifts could complement conservation management by increasing soil surface cover, thereby reducing soil erosion. However, increased residue could negatively impact crop stand establishment and implement effectiveness during tillage operations. Elevated CO2 increased total belowground dry weight for both crops; increased root proliferation may alter soil structural characteristics (e.g., due to increased number and extent of root channels) which could lead to increases in porosity, infiltration rates, and subsequent soil water storage. Nitrate leaching was reduced during the growing season (due to increased N capture by high CO2-grown crops), and also during the fallow period (likely a result of altered decomposition patterns due to increased C:N ratios of the high CO2-grown material). Enhanced crop growth (both above-and be-lowground) under elevated CO2 suggests greater delivery of C to soil, more soil surface residue, and greater percent ground coverage which could reduce soil C losses, increase soil C storage, and help ameliorate the rise in atmospheric CO2. Results from this study suggests that the biodegradability of crop residues and soil C storage may not only be affected by the environment they were produced in but may also be species dependent. To more fully elucidate the relationships between crop productivity, nutrient cycling, and decomposition of plant materials produced in elevated CO2 environments, future studies must address species effects (including use of genetically modified crops) and must also consider other factors such as cover crops, crop rotations, soil series, tillage practices, weed management, and regional climatic differences. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The present study adopted electrohydrodynamic (EHD) and ultrasonic (US) pretreatments to enhance the extraction of phenolic compounds from Melissa officinalis. The effects of pretreatment time (EHD: 0–20 min and US: 0–60 min) and diffusion conditions (including ethanol/water ratios of 0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 (w/w), time of 30, 45, 60 min, and the temperature of 30, 50 and 70 °C) on the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of the extracts were investigated using Folin-Ciocalteu and DPPH assay, respectively. The results showed that EHD and US pretreatments could enhance the process of the extraction of phenolic compounds and also improve the extracts' antioxidant activity. The highest extraction occurred at EHD time of 10 and 20 min, ethanol/water ratio of 1.2 and diffusion temperature of 70 °C. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra also revealed that the structure of the extracted compounds was not altered as a result of EHD pretreatment. No changes, however, occurred in the functional groups of the extracts by increasing the EHD duration, diffusion temperature, and ethanol/water ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana (Decne) Rehder aqueous extract of leaf was used for biosynthesis of AgNPs and characterized through UV–Visible spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform‐infrared, diffraction light scattering, and scanning electron microscope analysis. Moderate to strong antioxidant activity during in vitro antioxidant assays for scavenging of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH), nitric oxide (NO) radicals, iron chelation, and inhibition of β‐carotene bleaching was recorded with minimum IC50 value (27.70 ± 2.67 μg/ml) calculated for OH radicals. The AgNPs were evaluated against six multidrug resistant human bacterial strains and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) along with minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values was determined and all were found remarkably susceptible. The bacterial strain Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible with MIC = 5 μg/ml and MBC = 10 μg/ml. Among six fungal strains, Fumigatus esculentum was the most susceptible with MIC and MBC of 10 μg/ml. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2 yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) screening assay against cancer cell lines (HCCLM3, HEPG2, MDA‐MB 231, and MCF‐7) revealed the least IC50 values against HCCLM3 (74.20 ± 5.04) and MCF‐7 (91.90 ± 1.17). While no cytotoxicity against normal cell lines; LO2 and MCF‐10a was recorded. Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana silver nanoparticles (PJAgNPs) significantly (p >.001) prevented the migration of HCCLM3 cells in a dose‐dependent style, relative to control. The wound healing potential of AgNPs in rat was found higher (p <.05) for wound contraction rates, hydroxyproline content, hemostatic and re‐epithelization and regeneration efficiency in comparison to the reference group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Food produces powerful reinforcement that can lead to overconsumption and likely contributes to the obesity epidemic. The present studies examined molecular mechanisms mediating food-induced reinforcement in the model system C. elegans. After a 1-h training session during which food (bacteria) is paired with the odorant butanone, odor preference for butanone robustly increased. Glucose mimicked this effect of bacteria. Glucose-induced odor preference was enhanced similarly by prior food withdrawal or blocking glucose metabolism in the presence of food. Food- and glucose-induced odor preference was mimicked by serotonin signaling through the serotonin type-4 (5-HT4) receptor. Dopamine (thought to act primarily through a D1-like receptor) facilitated, whereas the D2 agonist bromocriptine blocked, food- and glucose-induced odor preference. Furthermore, prior food withdrawal similarly influenced reward produced by serotonin, dopamine, or food, implying post-synaptic enhancement of sensitivity to serotonin and dopamine. These results suggest that glucose metabolism plays a key role in mediating both food-induced reinforcement and enhancement of that reinforcement by prior food withdrawal and implicate serotonergic signaling through 5-HT4 receptor in the re-enforcing properties of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Survival rates after in‐hospital cardiac arrest remain very low. Although there is evidence that the use of audiovisual feedback devices can improve compression components, there are no data on patient survival. Therefore, we conducted this study to analyse the survival rate of patients with in‐hospital cardiac arrest after discharge from the intensive care unit. Methods and results: This study was a secondary analysis of a prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel study of patients who received either standard manual chest compression or a real‐time feedback device. Parametric and semi‐parametric models were fitted to the data. Different survival time of length of stay was investigated by univariate and multiple analyses. Pearson's correlation between length of stay and hospital length of stay was obtained. A total of 900 patients with a mean survival time of 35 days were included. Intervention was associated with a higher length of stay. Relative time was significant in adjusted fitted log‐normal regression for intervention group, female gender, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the night shift. A positive correlation between length of stay and hospital length of stay was found. Conclusions: Implementation of feedback device improved survival and length of stay. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance during the night shift decreased the survival time, which could be due to the inexperienced staff available outside working hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintained green space in underserved urban neighborhoods may be an important environmental pathway to improving community health and safety, though effects may vary across population subgroups and by time of day. We examined survey responses from 442 participants (178 men and 264 women), living near vacant lots in a cluster-randomized controlled trial of a cleaning and greening intervention, on perceived safety during the day and at night. At the intervention sites after the intervention, only men reported feeling less unsafe during the day. Women reported more fear, and men reported less fear, after the intervention, although these results and tests for effect modification were not statistically significant. The clean-and-green intervention may have allayed fears for men during the day and supported their ease of movement throughout their neighborhoods. However, at night, it may have had the opposite effect on women. Though our study was under-powered, not designed to test associations stratified by gender, directions and magnitudes of associations differed substantially, indicating a need for further investigations into potential gender differences in the benefits of green space, to inform and better tailor interventions to improve perceived safety for all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine how to optimise the integration of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for learning in continuing professional development (CPD) events in surgery, we implemented and evaluated two methods in two subspecialities over multiple years. The same 12 MCQs were administered pre- and post-event in 66 facial trauma courses. Two different sets of 10 MCQs were administered pre- and post-event in 21 small animal fracture courses. We performed standard psychometric tests on responses from participants who completed both the pre- and post-event assessment. The average difficulty index pre-course was 57% with a discrimination index of 0.20 for small animal fractures and 53% with a discrimination index of 0.15 for facial trauma. For the majority of the individual MCQs, the scores were between 30%-70% and the discrimination index was >0.10. The difficulty index post-course increased in both groups (to 75% and 62%). The pre-course MCQs resulted in an average score in the expected range for both formats suggesting they were appropriate for the intended level of difficulty and an appropriate pre-course learning activity. Post-course completion resulted in increased scores with both formats. Both delivery methods worked well in all regions and overall quality depends on applying a solid item development and validation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a long time, Melissa officinalis (M. officinalis) has been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the effects of M. officinalis on systolic and diastolic blood pressures in hypertensive patients. We conducted a double‐blind, controlled, randomized crossover clinical trial on 49 patients who received either M. officinalis capsules (400 mg/d; n = 23) or the placebo (n = 26) three times per day for a 4‐week period. After a 2‐week washout period, the M. officinalis group received placebo and the other group received M. officinalis for another 4‐week period. The systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured once at baseline and then every 2 weeks for 10 weeks. The statistical analysis of the obtained data revealed that the chronology of the consumption of M. officinalis and placebo had no effect on the systolic and diastolic blood pressures in these two studied groups. Moreover, it was found that systolic and diastolic blood pressures significantly decreased after the consumption of M. officinalis, compared to placebo. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures in group A at the beginning of the study were 152.30 ± 5.312 mmHg and 95.52 ± 1.988 mmHg, respectively, and, after the first phase (drug use), reached 129.88 ± 9.009 mmHg and 80.13 ± 5.488 mmHg, respectively. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures in group B at the beginning of the study was 152.26 ± 5.640 mmHg and 94.44 ± 2.607 mmHg, respectively, and after the second phase (drug use), reached 131.77 ± 8.091 mmHg and 81.46 ± 7.426 mmHg, (p =.005), respectively. Also, no significant side effects were observed during the study. According to the results, M. officinalis can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressures of the patients with essential hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improper and insufficient treatment of infectious hospital wastewater could seriously endanger public health and the environment. Ferrate(VI), a strong oxidizing, disinfecting, and coagulating agent, has the potential as a green solution for decontamination of water and wastewater. In this paper, electrochemically prepared potassium ferrate (K 2 FeO 4 ) with high purity was successfully encapsulated and applied to the water contaminated by SARS-CoV-2. Natural zeolite was chosen as an appropriate ecological material for ferrate encapsulation. The stability of encapsulated ferrate (in tablet form) was monitored for an extended time period (290 days) and has significantly increased in contrast with free potassium ferrate by almost 30%. Subsequently, the K 2 FeO 4 encapsulated with zeolite in tablet form was applied to the water and municipal water samples containing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The removal efficiency reached up to 98.5% and 86.7%, respectively, under natural conditions. Combination of environmentally friendly oxidizing agent and natural excellent adsorbent leads to the creation of very effective water treatment matter. These findings are essentially immediate and especially important for immediate water treatment in urgent situations such as natural disasters or military conflict. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Electrochemical preparation of oxidizing agent, K 2 FeO 4 , in high purity by own constructed electrolyzer. Encapsulation of ferrate(VI) to natural zeolite threefold improving the stability during 9 months. SARS-CoV-2 virus was successfully removed from various contaminated types of water. High degradation efficiency of virus fragments by Fe(VI) was achieved without additional water adjustment, in natural pH range., (© 2023 Water Environment Federation.)

Many tissue-specific stem cells maintain the ability to produce multiple cell types during long periods of non-division, or quiescence. FOXO transcription factors promote quiescence and stem cell maintenance, but the mechanisms by which FOXO proteins promote multipotency during quiescence are still emerging. The single FOXO ortholog in C. elegans, daf-16, promotes entry into a quiescent and stress-resistant larval stage called dauer in response to adverse environmental cues. During dauer, stem and progenitor cells maintain or re-establish multipotency to allow normal development to resume after dauer. We find that during dauer, daf-16/FOXO prevents epidermal stem cells (seam cells) from prematurely adopting differentiated, adult characteristics. In particular, dauer larvae that lack daf-16 misexpress collagens that are normally adult-enriched. Using col-19p::gfp as an adult cell fate marker, we find that all major daf-16 isoforms contribute to opposing col-19p::gfp expression during dauer. By contrast, daf-16(0) larvae that undergo non-dauer development do not misexpress col-19p::gfp. Adult cell fate and the timing of col-19p::gfp expression are regulated by the heterochronic gene network, including lin-41 and lin-29. lin-41 encodes an RNA-binding protein orthologous to LIN41/TRIM71 in mammals, and lin-29 encodes a conserved zinc finger transcription factor. In non-dauer development, lin-41 opposes adult cell fate by inhibiting the translation of lin-29, which directly activates col-19 transcription and promotes adult cell fate. We find that during dauer, lin-41 blocks col-19p::gfp expression, but surprisingly, lin-29 is not required in this context. Additionally, daf-16 promotes the expression of lin-41 in dauer larvae. The col-19p::gfp misexpression phenotype observed in dauer larvae with reduced daf-16 requires the downregulation of lin-41, but does not require lin-29. Taken together, this work demonstrates a novel role for daf-16/FOXO as a heterochronic gene that promotes expression of lin-41/TRIM71 to contribute to multipotent cell fate in a quiescent stem cell model. Author summary: In adults and juveniles, tissue-specific stem cells divide as needed to replace cells that are lost due to injury or normal wear and tear. Many stem cells spend long periods of time in cellular quiescence, or non-division. During quiescence, stem cells remain multipotent, where they retain the ability to produce all cell types within their tissue. In this study, we define a new role for the FOXO protein DAF-16 in promoting multipotency during the quiescent C. elegans dauer larva stage. C. elegans larvae enter dauer midway through development in response to adverse environmental conditions. Epidermal stem cells are multipotent in C. elegans larvae but differentiate at adulthood, a process controlled by the "heterochronic" genes. We found that daf-16 blocks the expression of adult cell fate specifically in dauer larvae by promoting the expression of the heterochronic gene lin-41. lin-41 normally blocks adult fate by repressing the expression of another heterochronic gene, lin-29, but surprisingly, lin-29 is not needed for the expression of adult cell fate in this context. These findings may be relevant to mammals where the orthologs of daf-16 and lin-41 are important in stem cell maintenance and opposing differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field trial was conducted twice (in 2020 and 2021) to evaluate the effect of clove fruit extract (CFE) and/or salicylic acid (SA), which were used as a foliar nourishment, on growth and yield traits, as well as physiological and biochemical indices utilizing potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) plants irrigated with deficient regimes in an arid environment. Three drip irrigation regimes [e.g., well watering (7400 m³ ha−1), moderate drought (6200 m³ ha−1), and severe drought (5000 m³ ha−1)] were designed for this study. The tested growth, yield, and photosynthetic traits, along with the relative water content, were negatively affected, whereas markers of oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide and superoxide), electrolyte leakage, and peroxidation of membrane lipids (assessed as malondialdehyde level) were augmented along with increased antioxidative defense activities under drought stress. These effects were gradually increased with the gradual reduction in the irrigation regime. However, under drought stress, CFE and/or SA significantly enhanced growth characteristics (fresh and dry weight of plant shoot and plant leaf area) and yield components (average tuber weight, number of plant tubers, and total tuber yield). In addition, photosynthetic attributes (chlorophylls and carotenoids contents, net photosynthetic and transpiration rates, and stomatal conductance) were also improved, and defensive antioxidant components (glutathione, free proline, ascorbate, soluble sugars, and α-tocopherol levels, and activities of glutathione reductase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase) were further enhanced. The study findings advocate the idea of using a CFE+SA combined treatment, which was largely efficient in ameliorating potato plant growth and productivity by attenuating the limiting influences of drought stress in dry environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The embryonic development of honey bees has been studied for more than 150 years (Bütschli, 1870) and a lot of data on the embryogenesis of Apis mellifera L. has been accumulated. However, bees are rarely used as a research objects in modern insect embryology. In addition to the importance of bees as pollinators and producers of biologically active substances, the participation of social behavior in controlling the course of individual development of this group of Hymenoptera is of great interest. This review provides information about external factors (biotic and abiotic) that affect the embryogenesis of A. mellifera, including those related to social behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 and pregnancy: Pregnancy results in systemic changes to the maternal immune system that cause distinct responses to infection or vaccination. Here, Bordt et al. and Atyeo et al. investigated how pregnancy influences the immune response to infection with or vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Bordt et al. characterized placental immune responses in women who were infected with SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy. The authors observed differential placental immune responses between male and female fetuses that were associated with reduced antibody transfer to male fetuses. Atyeo et al. evaluated immune responses to mRNA vaccination in women who were pregnant, lactating, or not pregnant. The authors found that two doses of vaccine were required for pregnant or lactating women to achieve immune responses comparable to that of nonpregnant women. An accompanying Focus article discusses these findings and the need for vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy. There is a persistent bias toward higher prevalence and increased severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in males. Underlying mechanisms accounting for this sex difference remain incompletely understood. Interferon responses have been implicated as a modulator of COVID-19 disease in adults and play a key role in the placental antiviral response. Moreover, the interferon response has been shown to alter Fc receptor expression and therefore may affect placental antibody transfer. Here, we examined the intersection of maternal-fetal antibody transfer, viral-induced placental interferon responses, and fetal sex in pregnant women infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Placental Fc receptor abundance, interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression, and SARS-CoV-2 antibody transfer were interrogated in 68 human pregnancies. Sexually dimorphic expression of placental Fc receptors, ISGs and proteins, and interleukin-10 was observed after maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection, with up-regulation of these features in placental tissue of pregnant individuals with male fetuses. Reduced maternal SARS-CoV-2–specific antibody titers and impaired placental antibody transfer were also observed in pregnancies with a male fetus. These results demonstrate fetal sex-specific maternal and placental adaptive and innate immune responses to SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Solar X-ray Monitor (XSM) payload on board Chandrayaan-2 provides disk-integrated solar spectra in the 1â€"15 keV energy range with an energy resolution of 180 eV (at 5.9 keV) and a cadence of 1 s. During the period from 2019 September to 2020 May, covering the minimum of Solar Cycle 24, it observed nine B-class flares ranging from B1.3 to B4.5. Using time-resolved spectroscopic analysis during these flares, we examined the evolution of temperature, emission measure, and absolute elemental abundances of four elementsâ€"Mg, Al, Si, and S. These are the first measurements of absolute abundances during such small flares and this study offers a unique insight into the evolution of absolute abundances as the flares evolve. Our results demonstrate that the abundances of these four elements decrease toward their photospheric values during the peak phase of the flares. During the decay phase, the abundances are observed to quickly return to their preflare coronal values. The depletion of elemental abundances during the flares is consistent with the standard flare model, suggesting the injection of fresh material into coronal loops as a result of chromospheric evaporation. To explain the quick recovery of the so-called coronal “First Ionization Potential bias” we propose two scenarios based on the Ponderomotive force model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several U.S. cities have implemented vacant lot greening programs as planning strategies to address decreased tax base, crime, and other issues associated with high land vacancy in marginalized neighborhoods, yet little is known about the benefits of programs that transfer city-owned lots to private owners. Using a mixed methods approach, we studied whether and how private ownership matters for vacant lot condition-care in Chicago's (IL) Large Lot Program, which allows property owners to purchase vacant city lots on their block for $1. We compared visual changes in vacant lot condition-care between the purchased "treatment" lots and matched "control" lots through a difference-in-differences technique. Our findings demonstrate a causal effect of private ownership: Whereas condition-care of the control lots decreased between 2014 and 2018, it significantly increased for treatment lots in the year after sale (2015) and continued to rise through 2018. Also, increases in Large Lot condition-care did not vary based on whether owners lived on the block. Focus groups with Large Lot owners showed that ownership empowers residents by reducing illicit and dangerous behaviors, expressing an ethic of care through vacant lot improvement, and continuing a legacy of land tenure tied to family and neighborhood. Further research is needed to strengthen our understanding of spatial contagion effects from treatment to nearby control lots. Our findings show that ownership-based vacant land greening initiatives like the Large Lot Program effectively improve condition-care regardless of whether lot owners live on the same block. Focus group findings suggest that such initiatives could be integrated into community-based safety programs and could be boosted by funding to create community amenities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of bio‐synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Periploca hydaspidis (PHAgNPs) whole plant extract for the first time via UV–Visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, DLS, and SEM analysis techniques was done. A rich variety of phytochemicals in P. hydaspidis aqueous extract (PHA) functioned as possible reducing and capping agents for AgNPs synthesis. In vitro antioxidant activities (DPPH, Iron chelating, Hydroxyl ion, Nitric oxide, and β‐carotene bleaching assays) of PHAgNPs revealed least IC50 values especially in hydroxyl ion (39.08 ± 0.88 μg/mL) and nitric oxide (37.53 ± 2.24 μg/mL) scavenging assays relative to standard controls (ascorbic acid, rutin, and gallic acid) and PHA. In addition, visible inhibition zone diameters were formed around discs against all pathogenic microbial strains including multi‐drug resistant strains (MDR's). MIC and MBC/MFC were depicted least in PHAgNPs with maximum bactericidal/fungicidal effects. MTT assay displayed a significant antiproliferative potential of PHAgNPs against HCCLM3, MCF‐7, MDA‐MB 231, and HEPG2 cancer cell lines, where least IC50 values were recorded against HEPG2 (12.97 ± 0.04 μg/mL) and MCF‐7 (5.73 ± 0.22 μg/mL). Furthermore, PHAgNPs considerably (p > 0.001) prevented the migration of MCF‐7 cancer cells in vitro whereas in in vivo wound healing assay, faster skin regeneration, and epithelization in wound biopsies was observed via histological analysis. PHAgNPs treated group rats significantly increased (p < 0.05) the wound contraction rate, hydroxyproline content and hemostatic potential compared to control and PHA‐treated groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The research presents the development of innovative ice cream based on rice milk with the addition of Moldavian dragonhead bagasse. Such a product can be put into industrial production. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of bagasse from Moldavian dragonhead (D. moldavica L.) seeds as a source of valuable nutrients on the physicochemical properties of rice milk ice cream. The basic composition of the ice cream was modified with a varied proportion of Moldavian dragonhead bagasse (MDB) (1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, and 3.0%). The analysis of fatty acids showed a high proportion of linolenic acid (n-3) in the tested ice cream, especially with 3.0% share of bagasse. The addition of MDB increased dry matter, fat, and protein contents in the ice cream. The increasing share of this additive affected the physical properties of ice cream, increasing hardness, adhesiveness and viscosity, and reducing their melting rate. The study showed a negligible effect of the increasing share of MDB on the thermophysical properties of ice cream. Due to the high nutritional value of the bagasse (with the appropriate refinement of the recipe), it is possible to obtain rice milk ice cream with potential health-promoting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, we present the simultaneous detection and characterization of three distinct phases at >105 K in z = 0 absorption using deep Chandra observations toward Mrk 421. The extraordinarily high signal-to-noise ratio (≥60) of the spectra has allowed us to detect a hot phase of the Milky Way circumgalactic medium (CGM) at 107 K coexisting with a warm-hot phase at 1.5 ± 0.1 × 106 K and a warm phase at 3.0 ± 0.4 × 105 K. The warm-hot phase is at the virial temperature of the Galaxy, and the warm phase may have cooled from the warm-hot phase, but the supervirial hot phase remains a mystery. We find that [C/O] in the warm and warm-hot phases, [Mg/O] in the warm-hot phase, and [Ne/O] in the hot phase are supersolar, and the hot and the warm-hot phases are α-enhanced. Nonthermal line broadening is evident in the warm-hot and the hot phases, and it dominates the total line broadening. Our results indicate that the >105 K CGM is a complex ecosystem. It provides insights on the thermal and chemical history of the Milky Way CGM and theories of galaxy evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]