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Oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) predominantly affects the tongue and the floor of the mouth, primarily in patients over 50 years of age. Incidence and mortality rates vary significantly worldwide, influenced by geographic areas and demographic characteristics. Epidemiological studies revealed an increase in incidence of OCSCC among young adults (YA) <44 years old. This narrative review, provides updated information on the incidence, risk factors, and prognosis of YA-OCSCC using data published from 2018 to 2023 from different geographic locations. The studies indicate that the incidence of YAOCSCC in Asia is approximately twice that in the US and that the incidence is strongly linked to risk factors such as betel quid chewing, tobacco use, and high alcohol consumption. The prognosis for YA-OCSCC, compared to that in older patients, shows similar or better overall survival, even in cases with relapses, but worse 5-year disease-free survival, despite receiving similar treatments. Consequently, a concerted effort is crucial to raise awareness about the cessation of tobacco and areca nut use, alcohol control, and the promotion of healthy lifestyle behaviors. Recent molecular data on YA-OCSCC suggests a potential profile characterized by epidermal growth factor receptor overexpression, low tumor mutation burden and an attenuated immune response. Upon confirmation in larger cohorts of YA-OCSCC patients from different geographical areas, the validated markers could aid in selecting tailored treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Betel nut chewing is a significant risk factor for oral cancer due to arecoline, its primary active component. Resveratrol, a non‐flavonoid polyphenol, possesses anti‐cancer properties. It has been shown to inhibit arecoline‐induced oral malignant cells in preliminary experiments but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This research therefore aimed to explore the potential therapeutic targets of resveratrol in treating arecoline‐induced oral cancer. METHODS: Data mining identified common targets and hub targets of resveratrol in arecoline‐induced oral cancer. Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was used to score and validate the expression and clinical significance of these hub targets in head and neck cancer (HNC) tissues. Molecular docking analysis was conducted on the hub targets. The effect of resveratrol intervention on hub targets was verified by experiments. RESULTS: Sixty‐one common targets and 15 hub targets were identified. Hub targets were highly expressed in HNC and were associated with unfavorable prognoses. They played a role in HNC metastasis, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and invasion. Their expression also affected immune cell infiltration and correlated negatively with sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents such as bleomycin and docetaxel. Experiments demonstrated that resveratrol down‐regulated the expression of the hub targets, inhibited their proliferation and invasion, and induced apoptosis. CONCLUSION: Resveratrol inhibits the arecoline‐induced malignant phenotype of oral epithelial cells by regulating the expression of some target genes, suggesting that resveratrol may be used not only as an adjuvant treatment for oral cancer, but also as an adjuvant for oral cancer prevention due to its low toxicity and high efficacy. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), characterized by excessive collagen deposition by myofibroblasts, is often linked to Areca nuts consumption. Probiotics consumption has shown protective effects against fibrotic diseases, and recently, their metabolic byproducts, known as postbiotics, have demonstrated superior advantages over probiotics. However, studies on the therapeutic impact of postbiotics on OSF have been scarce. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of PostBio GK4, a postbiotic derived from Lactobacillus pentosus GK4 , on OSF and explore its underlying mechanisms. The cytotoxicity of GK4 in normal buccal mucosal fibroblasts (BMFs) and fibrotic BMFs (fBMFs) were assessed. Following this, we evaluated the effects of GK4 on collagen contraction, migratory, and wound healing capacities in arecoline-induced fibrotic BMFs. Next, Western blotting and ELISA were employed to assess GK4's impact on fibrosis-related proteins such as COL1A1, and α-SMA, as well as on TGF-β and Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Arecoline was shown to stimulate cell migratory, contractile and wound healing abilities as well as the expression of α-SMA and COL1A1 in BMFs. Treatment with GK4 reduced all arecoline-induced phenomena in BMFs. Moreover, GK4 diminished the increased expression of TGF-β and Smad2/3. Our findings proposed that GK4 may exert a suppressive effect on arecoline-induced myofibroblast activities via the inhibition of TGF-β and Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Therefore, GK4 holds promise as an adjunct therapeutic approach for intervening in OSF. Further in-vivo and clinical studies are warranted to validate these observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Asia and Southeast Asia are the regions with relatively high and increased disease burden of oral cancer. The purpose of this study was to analyze the scientometric characteristics of oral cancer research in these regions. There are 8 countries from South Asia and 11 countries from Southeast Asia. All the articles on oral cancer from these countries were retrieved in the Scopus database. A total of 5660 articles originated from South Asia (n = 4718) and Southeast Asia (n = 942). India (n = 4302; 91.2%) was the country publishing most articles on oral cancer in South Asia, and Malaysia (n = 355; 37.7%) was first in Southeast Asia. Tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, and areca nut as risk factors were common keywords, attention should be paid to them while developing polices for oral cancer control. In India, the most topic including distinctive keywords was diagnostics (sensitivity/specificity, saliva, and predictive value), followed by molecular biology (antioxidants, lipid peroxidation, and glutathione), experimental in vivo (hamster and cheek pouch), and risk factor (smokeless tobacco). In Malaysia, the most topic containing keywords was molecular biology followed by epidemiology and drug research. This study for the first time reported the scientometric characteristics of oral cancer research in South Asia (India) and Southeast Asia (Malaysia). It is essential to improve the public awareness of risk factors control to reduce the oral cancer burden, especially in low-and middle-income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma arising from oral submucous fibrosis is recognized as a clinicopathologically distinct disease. This study aims to summarize and compare the population and clinicopathologic characteristics of OSCC-OSF with other OSCC in Hunan Province, China. The objective is to formulate treatment strategies more in line with regional characteristics. Methods: A retrospective review of OSCC cases recruited from the Second Xiangya Hospital from 2010 to 2020 was conducted. A total of 1,413 OSCC patients were selected, including 481 patients with OSCC-OSF and 932 were other OSCC. Population characteristics, risk factors and clinicopathological manifestations were explored in OSCC-OSF and other OSCC, as well as thinprep cytologic test and DNA quantification. Results: We found that OSCC-OSF patients were younger than those with other OSCC. Both types of disease were predominantly observed in males compared to females. Tumor biopsy analysis indicated that tumor cells within OSCC-OSF patients were more likely to be well differentiated and showed a higher frequency of lymph node metastases. Clinicopathological factors, such as the chewing betel nuts habit and smoking, were more prevalent in OSCC-OSF patients in contrast to other OSCC. DNA quantification revealed that the number of DNA aneuploid cells was higher in OSCC-OSF compared to other OSCCs. Conclusion: In this study, OSCC-OSF is considered a clinicopathologically distinct disease. Compared with other OSCC, OSCC-OSF patients have a higher incidence of nodal metastases, an early clinical TNM stage, and a lower three-year survival rate. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving the prognosis of OSCC-OSF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a precancerous condition in the oral cavity, which is closely related to the myofibroblast conversion of buccal mucosal fibroblasts (BMFs) after chronic consumption of areca nut. Emerging evidence suggests pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death that is mediated by inflammasome, is implicated in persistent myofibroblast activation and fibrosis. Besides, numerous studies have demonstrated the effects of non‐coding RNAs on pyroptosis and myofibroblast activities. Herein, we aimed to target key long non‐coding RNA PVT1 with natural compound, carvacrol, to alleviate pyroptosis and myofibroblast activation in OSF. We first identified PVT1 was downregulated in the carvacrol‐treated fBMFs and then demonstrated that myofibroblast features and expression of pyroptosis makers were all reduced in response to carvacrol treatment. Subsequently, we analysed the expression of PVT1 and found that PVT1 was aberrantly upregulated in OSF specimens and positively correlated with several fibrosis markers. After revealing the suppressive effects of carvacrol on myofibroblast characterisitcs and pyroptosis were mediated by repression of PVT1, we then explored the potential mechanisms. Our data showed that PVT1 may serve as a sponge of microRNA(miR)‐20a to mitigate the myofibroblast activation and pyroptosis. Altogether, these findings indicated that the anti‐fibrosis effects of carvacrol merit consideration and may be due to the attenuation of pyroptosis and myofibroblast activation by targeting the PVT1/miR‐20a axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral cancer is the most common malignancy in many developing countries, such as India, due to increased consumption of smokeless tobacco. The trace elemental components in commercially packaged forms of tobacco can play a significant role in the pathogenesis of oral cancer. To qualitatively assess the trace elements in various types of commercially packaged forms of tobacco using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Two popular varieties of 'Paan masala' that contained a mixture of slaked lime with areca nut, catechu, and other flavouring agents (tobacco was absent) and four types of packaged tobacco were obtained from 'Paan' shops. The contents in the packets were made into pellets using a hydraulic press and subjected to elemental analysis using LIBS. A ten-trial experiment was carried out on all six pellets. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) database was used to assess the emission lines. The elements obtained from commercially packaged tobacco and Paan masala were similar: calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), aluminium (Al), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr). Substances that cause DNA damage and carcinogenesis are inorganic elements such as nickel. Our study revealed that carcinogens such as nickel are present in the commercially packaged forms of tobacco and 'Paan masala' samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to purify proanthocyanidins from areca nut seeds (P-AN) and to investigate the bactericidal activity and mechanism of the purified products against Streptococcus mutans. Methods and results Ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared, Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MADLI-TOF-MS), and thiolysis experiment were used for P-AN chemical analysis. Time-kill analysis and glycolytic pH drop were used to evaluate the activity of S. mutans in vitro. Meanwhile, the investigation of the bacteriostatic mechanism included membrane protein, fluidity, permeability, and integrity tests. The results showed that P-AN was a kind of proanthocyanidin mainly composed of B-type proanthocyanidins and their polymers. Moreover, MADLI-TOF-MS and thiolysis experiments demonstrated that the degree of polymerization of P-AN was 13. The time-kill analysis showed that P-AN had strong bactericidal activity against S. mutans. P-AN at minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) concentrations was able to induce S. mutans death, while complete lethality occurred at 2 MIC. Glycolysis test showed that P-AN significantly inhibited S. mutans acid production (P  < .01). The morphological changes of S. mutans were observed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy experiments, which indicated that P-AN destroyed the cellular structure of S. mutans. At the same time, significant changes were observed in membrane proteins, fluidity, permeability, and integrity. Conclusion P-AN can effectively inhibit the activity of S. mutans. P-AN can reduce the erosion of the tooth surface by the acid of S. mutans. P-AN could break the structure of the cell membrane protein of S. mutans. P-AN could destroy the integrity of membrane, resulting in the death of S. mutans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areca nut husk (ANH) holds promise as a viable biomass source for xylose production. Xylose is a precursor for various biochemicals. However, the recalcitrant nature of ANH makes saccharification more complex. To address this, lime and acid pretreatments were carried out to enhance the susceptibility of biomass to saccharification. Before this, a compositional analysis was conducted to determine the initial constituents of the feedstock. Saccharification was conducted under the following conditions: 2% (wV−1) substrate loading, 100 rpm agitation, and 30 °C hydrolysis temperature for 12 h hydrolysis time at pH 4.5 to 5.0. However, parameters like xylanase enzyme loading were varied to enhance the saccharification of the ANH. The results demonstrated that acid‐treated husk (ATH), lime‐treated husk (LTH), and raw husk (RH) achieved the highest yield (gg−1) of reducing sugar, approximately 90, 83, and 15%, respectively, at an enzyme loading of 15.0 IUg−1. Various analytical techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to examine structural changes in the native, pretreated, and saccharified residues of ANH. The analysis revealed that a significant amount of partial crystalline and amorphous cellulose in the ANH biomass was hydrolyzed during the saccharification process. However, saccharification also led to the removal of amorphous substances, disruption of the crystalline structure, and conversion of crystalline regions into amorphous domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) accounts for 43.4% of oral cancers in China and has a poor prognosis. This study aimed to explore whether radiomics features extracted from preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could predict overall survival (OS) in patients with TSCC. Methods: The clinical imaging data of 232 patients with pathologically confirmed TSCC at Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed from February 2010 to October 2022. Based on 2–10 years of follow-up, patients were categorized into two groups: control (healthy survival, n = 148) and research (adverse events: recurrence or metastasis-related death, n = 84). A training and a test set were established using a 7:3 ratio and a time node. Radiomics features were extracted from axial T2-weighted imaging, contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging, and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences. The corresponding radiomics scores were generated using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to screen for independent factors affecting adverse events in patients with TSCC using clinical and pathological results. A novel nomogram was established to predict the probability of adverse events and OS in patients with TSCC. Results: The incidence of adverse events within 2–10 years after surgery was 36.21%. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that hot pot consumption, betel nut chewing, platelet–lymphocyte ratio, drug use, neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, Radscore, and other factors impacted TSCC survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the clinical stage (P < 0.001), hot pot consumption (P < 0.001), Radscore 1 (P = 0.01), and Radscore 2 (P < 0.001) were independent factors affecting TSCC-OS. The same result was validated by the XGBoost algorithm. The nomogram based on the aforementioned factors exhibited good discrimination (C-index 0.86/0.81) and calibration (P > 0.05) in the training and test sets, accurately predicting the risk of adverse events and survival. Conclusion: The nomogram constructed using clinical data and MRI radiomics parameters may accurately predict TSCC-OS noninvasively, thereby assisting clinicians in promptly modifying treatment strategies to improve patient prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Betel quid and its major ingredient, areca nut, are recognized by IARC as major risk factors in oral cancer development. Areca nut extract (ANE) exposure has been linked to OPMD progression and malignant transformation to OSCC. However, the detailed mechanism through which ANE acts on other cell types in the oral microenvironment to promote oral carcinogenesis remains elusive. Methods: Immunoprofiling of macrophages associated with OPMD and OSCC was carried out by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. Phosphokinase and cytokine arrays and western blotting were performed to determine the underlying mechanisms. Transwell assays were used to evaluate the migration-promoting effect of ANE. Hamster model was finally applied to confirm the in vivo effect of ANE. Results: We reported that M2 macrophages positively correlated with oral cancer progression. ANE induced M2 macrophage differentiation, CREB phosphorylation and VCAM-1 secretion and increased mitochondrial metabolism. Conditioned medium and VCAM-1 from ANE-treated macrophages promoted migration and mesenchymal phenotypes in oral precancer cells. In vivo studies showed that ANE enhanced M2 polarization and related signaling pathways in the oral buccal tissues of hamsters. Conclusion: Our study provides novel mechanisms for areca nut-induced oral carcinogenesis, demonstrating that areca nut promotes M2 macrophage differentiation and secretion of oncogenic cytokines that critically activate malignant transformation of oral premalignant cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusions This study aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the measurement and prevalence of betel‐quid (BQ) abuse, dependence, and BQ use disorder (BUD), as well as to evaluate the impact of BQ addiction on oral malignant diseases.We used the PRISMA guidelines to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis. We searched for relevant publications up to April 2024 in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. The articles were evaluated for BQ addiction and its relationship with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral cancer.The prevalence of BQ abuse, dependence, and BUD in South, Southeast, and East Asia varied between 0.8%–46.3%, 0.4%–43.5%, and 4.7%–39.2%, respectively. Among BQ chewers, the corresponding proportions of these disorders ranged from 40.5%–99.6%, 20.9%–99.6%, and 55.2%–99.3%. The pooled risks of OPMD associated with BQ abuse, dependence, and BUD were 16.3, 18.7, and 9.6–35.5, respectively. The risk of oral cancer for mild, moderate, and severe BUD was 8.5, 8.2, and 42.3, respectively.BUD mediates the link between BQ use and an increased risk of oral malignant disorders. Addressing and treating BQ addiction is an important component of comprehensive OPMD and oral cancer preventive and intervention programs that go beyond simple cessation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is an innovative material for construction that offers excellent workability and flowability while achieving effective and uniform compaction without the need for external vibration. Using an experimental approach, this study investigates the effect of incorporating arecanut fibers on the performance of self-compacting concrete (SCC). The focus is on optimizing the fiber content for improved concrete characteristics. The study examines three different fiber lengths (8 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm) and three volume fractions (1%, 2%, and 3%) while partially replacing 30% of the cement by weight with fly ash. Tests on the workability of the SCC mixes revealed favorable characteristics: slump flow between 650 and 750 mm, T500 slump flow time of 2–5 s, V-funnel time of 5–10 s, L-box ratio of 0.8–1.0, and J-ring values within 0–10 mm as recommended by EFNARC guidelines. Furthermore, incorporating 30% fly ash and arecanut fibers significantly enhanced the hardened properties of the SCC, particularly its compressive strength. A concrete mix containing 2% of 10-mm long arecanut fibers achieved a compressive strength of 40.26 MPa, which is about 15.14% increase compared to the reference strength of 35 MPa. Similarly, using a 1% volume fraction of 12 mm arecanut fibers increased the split tensile strength by 14.04% and the flexural strength by 35.87% compared to the control mix. Fly ash and arecanut fibers enhance the durability of SCC by reducing Coulomb charges and improving resistance to chloride penetration. However, the increased water absorption rate of the fibers can lead to increased overall water absorption in the concrete. Microstructural analysis (SEM) revealed improved bonding and reduced voids, further supporting enhanced durability. Additionally, EDX analysis confirmed the presence of various elements from cement and fly ash, providing valuable data for evaluating the long-term performance of these SCC mixes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The automated sorting of arecanut kernels is a significant challenge that has not been effectively addressed thus far. Scientific grading techniques are necessary given the paradigm change toward investigating alternative uses for arecanuts in industry and the medical field. This research work emphasizes the relatively unexplored aspect of the post-harvest process; quality grading of kernels based on physical properties. It aimed to develop a novel approach for classifying unboiled (Chali) arecanut kernels cultivated in Goa, India based on their true density, using a combination of mechanical and visual techniques. The study explored the potential of true density as a quality indicator for real-time grading of the kernels. To achieve this, automated grading equipment was devised, utilizing a load cell to measure the kernel's mass and the ellipsoid approximation method to estimate its volume. A machine vision system captured the top and side images of the kernels to measure their volume. Python programs were created to enable image acquisition, processing, object detection, measurement and kernel segregation. Real-time kernel classification was accomplished by establishing serial data communication between the Python code and the Arduino board. The kernel segregation process was facilitated by servomechanism and a stepper motor. The kernels were classified into acceptable and non-acceptable categories based on a threshold value of true density. The research successfully established a method that utilizes the physical attributes of arecanut kernels as parameters for quality grading. However, the study encountered challenges with the density measurements, as the paired t-test results revealed significant differences between the kernel true density measured by the device and the true density estimated using the weighing scale-water displacement method, indicating a percentage error of 13.2%. Addressing these challenges would lead to more accurate density calculations, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the kernel classification process. Furthermore, the technique allowed for the offline estimation of the kernels' porosity, which was found to be 45.3%. In future research, the integration of density and porosity measurement systems could be explored for real-time quality evaluation based on porosity, offering potential opportunities for further enhancement and optimization of the grading process. The technology could be further applied to other types of nuts and agricultural products, thereby overcoming the limitations of color-based sorting using image processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the areca nut market is expanding, there is a growing concern regarding areca nut toxicity. Areca nut alkaloids are the major risky components in betel nuts, and their toxic effects are not fully understood. Here, we investigated the parental and transgenerational toxicity of varied doses of areca nut alkaloids in Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that the minimal effective concentration of arecoline is 0.2–0.4 mM. First, arecoline exhibited transgenerational toxicity on the worms' longevity, oviposition, and reproduction. Second, the redox homeostasis of C. elegans was markedly altered under exposure to 0.2–0.4 mM arecoline. The mitochondrial membrane potential was thereafter impaired, which was also associated with the induction of apoptosis. Moreover, antioxidant treatments such as lycopene could significantly ameliorate the toxic effects caused by arecoline. In conclusion, arecoline enhances the ROS levels, inducing neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, and reproductive toxicity in C. elegans through dysregulated oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, and DNA damage-related gene expression. Therefore, the drug-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be crucial for its toxic effects, which could be mitigated by antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Tobacco claims over 8 million lives, with over 80% of the 1.3 billion users residing in low- and middle-income nations. India ranks highest in the proportion of users globally, notably in the Northeastern states. This paper aims to analyze the overall trends of smoking and smokeless tobacco (SLT) in the Northeast Region (NER) of India between the two rounds of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) while analyzing the factors influencing tobacco used in the context of the region. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive analysis, estimation, and comparison of the prevalence of smoking and SLT were conducted for both rounds of GATS. The Chi-square test was employed to examine the association between variables such as gender, age, residence, education level, occupation, marital status, and caste while adjusting for GATS weight. RESULTS: The prevalence of smoking tobacco in GATS-II in NER is 19.3%, a decrease of 12% from GATS-I. While the use of manufactured cigarettes decreased by 33.7%, the use of bidi smoking and rolled tobacco in paper/leaf increased by 15.9% and 9.2%, respectively. The prevalence of SLT in GATS-II was 40.5%, a significant increase of 17% from GATS-I. While both genders exhibited increased tobacco usage, females experienced a particularly significant rise (18%) between the two survey rounds. No formal schooling, gender, rural residence, older age group, and occupation were significant factors in influencing the increased use of SLT. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of SLT consumption in the NER is on the rise, even as overall trends indicate a decrease in smoking tobacco. To effectively address this issue, tobacco should be integrated as a crosscutting concern across all levels of health programs. Multisectoral collaborations involving communities and schools can achieve regulatory and meaningful reductions in tobacco use.

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS: Oral cancers in the US-affiliated Pacific Islands are poorly described despite disproportionately higher incidences in certain jurisdictions. This study attempts to better characterize the incidence, staging, and management of oral cancers in this region. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective Epidemiological Study. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted across the US-affiliated Pacific Islands between 2007 and 2019. Patient data were obtained for individuals with primary head and neck cancers from the Pacific Regional Central Cancer Registry database. All cohorts were age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population. Further analysis was performed on oral cavity cancers due to their clear predominance within the sample. RESULTS: A total of 585 patients with primary head and neck cancers were included. The average age was 54.5 ± 12.9 years, and most patients were male (76.8%). Oral cancer subsite analysis revealed the proportional incidence of buccal mucosa was higher in 5 of 9 jurisdictions when compared with the United States (p

Abstract Many tropical landscapes have experienced the loss of traditional cultivation practices as they have transitioned to other land use systems. The Tanintharyi Region of southern Myanmar is a landscape experiencing a rapid land use regime shift from traditional subsistence farming to permanent cash crop agriculture. Despite previous research in this region on the expansion of large‐scale agribusiness, such as oil palm and rubber plantations, little is known about how the small‐scale shifting cultivation system practiced by the local Karen ethnic people in Tanintharyi has changed over recent decades or the underlying reasons for this transition. Our study explores this transition process and its drivers from a social and land system change perspective in four villages of Bokpyin Township in Tanintharyi. We investigated the drivers of land cover and land use change by collecting information through focus groups and individual interviews with community members who previously practised shifting cultivation. We also quantified the overall change in land cover and land use through remote sensing analysis of Landsat 8 (2020) and declassified KH‐9 satellite imagery (1976). Prior to a period of civil war in the 1980s, cultivators used a traditional ‘slash‐and‐burn’ agricultural system for subsistence use. The present land use system is dominated by permanent betel nut cultivation, which represents the primary income source for farming households. The reported drivers of the transition to cash crop farming are greater income potential and livelihood security, risk of losing fallow land due to the needs for new cultivation areas for in‐migration and new centralized land use policies and administration after the national ceasefire agreement in 2012. The documented change in land use systems has been paired with a concurrent net loss of forest that, given the conflicted governance within the landscape, seems likely to continue without additional land use planning efforts. Our study contributes to an increased understanding of changes in shifting cultivation systems that are being documented globally. Furthermore, our example of combining qualitative interviews with analysis of historical satellite imagery to detect and explain land use regime shifts can serve as a model for future work in different landscapes. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Objectives Methods Results Conclusions To provide updated statistics of oral cancer incidence and mortality in Taiwan, and to describe recent developments for oral cancer control to reduce oral cancer incidence and mortality.The Taiwan Cancer Registry Annual Report 2023, the Taiwan Cancer Registry Online Interactive Search System, and the 2023 Health Promotion Administration Annual Report are consulted and summarized. A literature search using PubMed was also conducted to identify Taiwan oral cancer control‐related studies.Taiwan, with a long history of areca/betel quid chewing, has battled with oral cancer for decades. In 2021, the male lip and oral cavity cancer incidence is 29.77 (per 100,000 persons) and mortality is 11.25. Over these years, the male chewing prevalence was reduced to 6.2% in 2018. Taiwan has a sustained national oral cancer screening programme provided to high‐risk groups biennially.Although the age‐standardized incidence rates have been slowly decreasing since 2009, due to Taiwan's ageing population, the actual oral cancer burden is still stringent. The collaboration of multi‐ministries and agencies on promoting areca nut and betel quid control, improving oral cancer awareness, and delivering cancer care remains essential to prevent oral cancer and reduce oral cancer deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Materials and Methods Results Conclusions To analyze the biological effect and mechanism of areca nut extract (ANE) on human oral keratinocyte (HOK) cells.The effect of gradient concentration of ANE on the proliferation activity of HOK cells was analyzed by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assays. The differentially expressed genes between the ANE group and control group HOK cells were analyzed by second‐generation transcriptome sequencing. Real‐time PCR and western blot were, respectively, used to analyze the expression of AREG gene and protein in HOK cells. After AREG gene overexpression or knockdown, the proliferation, migration, and expression of proteins related to epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT), MAPK signal pathway in HOK cells were, respectively, detected by CCK‐8, wound healing, transwell, and western blot assays.ANE (500 μg/mL) promoted the proliferation and migration of HOK cells, ANE (2 mg/mL) promoted the EMT of HOK cells, and ANE (50 mg/mL) inhibited the proliferation of HOK cells. AREG knockdown inhibited ANE‐induced proliferation and migration of HOK cells, while AREG overexpression promoted the proliferation and migration of HOK cells. Western blot assay showed that ANE activated MAPK signal pathway by upregulating AREG protein in HOK cells.ANE promoted HOK cell proliferation, migration, and EMT by mediating AREG–MAPK signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an imported product, betel nut has played an important role in diet, medicine, taxation with a rich history and culture. Through literature review, it was found that during the Han and Three Kingdoms periods, betel nut was recorded as a "rare plant" in various Records of Exotic Items and was accepted gradually. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties, betel nut was a "luxury item" for aristocratic officials. In the Tang Dynasty, it was influenced by the Buddhist concept of equality and began to spread to the public and in the Song Dynasty, it gradually became an "ordinary item" for the common people. The reasons for betel nut being accepted and spread, and being used in wedding customs in Hainan, not only lies in its material culture itself, but also its significant role in important social etiquettes and literati's enthusiastic endorsement of betel nut with gentlemanly virtues and spir鄄 itual cultural significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitual consumption of areca/betel nut in Southeast Asia has been associated with oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and its malignant transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma. The current study aimed to assess the molecular alterations in fibroblast cell lines after treatment with areca nut. Areca nut extract (ANE) was prepared and characterized for its active ingredient, arecoline. ANE‐treated cells were subjected to cell viability, proliferation, migration, morphologic changes, and transcript of OSMF genes (col1a1, col1a2, hsp47, timp1, timp2, timp3, and timp4). Further, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS) of cell lysate and Raman microspectroscopy (RMS) of fixed cells were performed for metabolomics/lipidomics and biomolecular alterations in the nucleus and periphery of ANE‐treated cells. We compared and integrated the data from both techniques and observed that the cells treated with ANE mimicked OSMF and could be used as an in vitro model. LCMS showed a significant alteration in 17 metabolites and 165 lipid molecules in the cells treated with ANE. Further, 40 molecules in the nucleus and 29 in the periphery were found to be altered in these cells when subjected to RMS. Molecules associated with pathways such as the transfer of acetyl groups into mitochondria, amino sugar metabolism, and the Warburg effect were modulated the most upon ANE treatment. Acetyl CoA was found to be common in most of the altered pathways. Besides, the pathways affecting carbohydrate metabolism were also altered significantly. Targeting these molecules and pathways can help to prevent the malignant transformation of OSMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A condition called Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) primarily affects the Indian subcontinent. It is characterised by abnormal collagen deposition and fibrosis of submucosal tissue that progresses over time. Chewing betel nut is the most prevalent behaviour among Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) patients, with a 6.3% prevalence rate. Symptoms include ulceration, burning sensation, xerostomia, and limited mouth opening. According to the Brihatrayi (three main classical books), OSMF is associated with sarvasaramukharoga, or disorders of the oral cavity. Tobacco, lime, chilies, betel nuts, and other substances act as irritants and can damage the oral mucosa. Treatment methods include Gandusha (oil pulling), Pittashamaka, yoga, Nasya (nasal drops), Pratisarana (rubbing), etc. The present review was conducted to assess and evaluate the potential efficacy of Tulsi-turmeric oil pulling as a complementary or alternative therapy in managing OSMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new cyclic peptide alternarin A (1), along with seven known compounds, alternariol (2), sulfated derivative of alternariol (3), alternariol methyl ether (4), altenuene (5), 2,5-dimethyl-7-hydroxychromone (6), diaporthein A (7), isopterocarpolone (8), were isolated from the betel nut endophytic fungus Alternaria sp. RW-AL. The structure of 1 was elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectra as well as HR-ESI-MS analysis. Compounds 1, 4, and 5 showed definite antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusion To describe the epidemiological status of oral cancer (OC) in India along with updates on risk factors, advances and gaps in preventive measures, treatment, costs of care and monitoring.Two national estimates of incidence and mortality were cited, one for 2016 by the Global Burden of Disease India Study and one based on projections for 2020 by GLOBOCAN. The National Cancer Registry Project provided local and regional incidence and trends using data from 2012–2016. Scientific literature, reports of the NCRP, the IARC and government press releases were also consulted.Tobacco and areca nut habits are the major risk factors for OC in India. In the 1980s, intervention studies on oral screening, awareness generation and habit cessation in rural areas reduced tobacco use and oral leukoplakia. Lately, adoption of the tobacco control law and mass media communications have resulted in decreased tobacco use. However, the increasing popularity of highly carcinogenic tobacco products containing areca nut, with evasion of their bans, is increasing OC incidence.Despite advances in care, there is growing incidence of OC, persisting poor awareness about the need to quit tobacco/areca nut/alcohol use and go for screening. Major efforts are needed to implement preventive activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the project is to explore the biosoftening of raw areca nut fibers using two different biological retting methods and assess their impact on fiber properties for improved spinning. The study aims to contribute to the fashion industry's shift toward sustainability. Design/methodology/approach: The project involves collecting raw brown areca shells, subjecting them to two retting methods (stagnant water retting and changing water daily retting) and then extracting and drying the fibers. Various physical and chemical properties of the fibers are measured to evaluate their suitability for spinning. Findings: The stagnant water retting method, especially the fibers obtained on the second day, showed improved properties in terms of fiber strength, elongation, fineness and cellulose content, making them suitable for spinning applications. The method also resulted in better moisture regain. Research limitations/implications: The study focused on two retting methods and a limited timeframe. Further research could explore additional techniques and durations. The labor-intensive nature of the daily changing water retting method may have implications for scalability. Practical implications: The project demonstrates a cost-effective and sustainable method for converting agricultural waste (areca nut husks) into valuable fibers suitable for various end users. Social implications: The research supports the fashion industry's sustainability efforts by promoting the use of eco-friendly natural fibers, potentially benefiting rural farming communities. Originality/value: The project highlights the innovative use of areca nut fibers and their potential to contribute to sustainable fashion. The stagnant water retting method is presented as a reliable and effective approach for improving fiber properties. Additionally, all fiber testing was exclusively conducted at the South India Textile Research Association (SITRA), with sponsorship from the industry and support from the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arecanut (Areca catechu L) is one of the important cash crops in India and ranks first in terms of both area and production of arecanut in world. Meghalaya holds 4th position in the production of arecanut in India producing 51,000 tonnes in 2019. The total of 200 samples was selected for the study. The marketing channels were identified based on various intermediaries involved in the marketing process. A total of 4 marketing channels found in the study area of which Channel II (Producer - Village Trader - Whole seller - Consumer) was the most effective channel for marketing arecanut, accounting for nearly 40% of the total marketed quantity. In terms of marketing margin earned by the different marketing channel, channel III was found to be earned the highest marketing margin consists of the marketing margin earned by the wholesaler, village traders and retailer. The Producers share in Consumer's Rupee (%) was found to be highest in Channel I. The study of arecanut marketing channels offers valuable lessons for the broader agricultural sector, suggesting pathways to enhance producer income, reduce marketing costs, and improve the overall efficiency of agricultural marketing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expansion of betel palm cultivation is driven by rising demand for betel nut, yet this growth is accompanied by challenges such as decreased agricultural biodiversity and the spread of infectious pathogens. Among these, Yellow Leaf Disease (YLD) emerges as a prominent threat to betel palm plantation. Areca Palm Velarivirus 1 (APV1) has been identified as a primary causative agent of YLD, precipitating leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and diminished yield. However, the precise mechanisms underlying APV1-induced damage remain elusive. Our study elucidates that APV1 infiltrates chloroplasts, instigating severe damage and consequential reductions in chlorophyll a/b and carotene levels, alongside notable declines in photosynthetic efficiency. Moreover, APV1 infection exerts broad regulatory effects on gene expression, particularly suppressing key genes implicated in chloroplast function and photosynthesis. These disruptions correlate with growth retardation, yield diminishment, and compromised nut quality. Intriguingly, the paradoxical destruction of the host's photosynthetic machinery by APV1 prompts inquiry into its evolutionary rationale, given the virus's dependence on host resources for replication and proliferation. Our findings reveal that APV1-induced leaf yellowing acts as a beacon for transmission vectors, hinting at a nuanced "host-pathogen-vector co-evolutionary" dynamic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areca nut, the seed of Areca catechu L., is one of the most widely consumed addictive substances in the world after nicotine, ethanol, and caffeine. The major effective constituent of A. catechu, arecoline, has been reported to affect the central nervous system. Less is known if it may affect pain and its related emotional responses. In this study, we found that oral application of arecoline alleviated the inflammatory pain and its induced anxiolytic and anti-depressive-like behavior. Arecoline also increased the mechanical nociceptive threshold and alleviated depression-like behavior in naïve mice. In the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), which acts as a hinge of nociception and its related anxiety and depression, by using the multi-electrode field potential recording and whole-cell patch-clamp recording, we found that the evoked postsynaptic transmission in the ACC of adult mice has been inhibited by the application of arecoline. The muscarinic receptor is the major receptor of the arecoline in the ACC. Our results suggest that arecoline alleviates pain, anxiety, and depression-like behavior in both physiological and pathological conditions, and this new mechanism may help to treat patients with chronic pain and its related anxiety and disorder in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is the primary source of income for the majority of the Indian farming community. Plantation crops play a significant part in improving the farmers' economic condition. The proposed work aims to develop a system model for prognostic reasoning by analyzing the impact of fertilizer and irrigation on areca nut crop yield, as well as to predict diseases that may affect areca nut palms using data analytics and a formal statistical approach. The dataset is constructed by interacting with the farmers in the Mangaluru region of Karnataka, India. To find the optimal features, the formal statistical test chi-square is applied. The performance of various classifiers, such as Logistic Regression, Nave Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Decision Tree, and Random Forest, is examined during prognostic reasoning. For disease prediction and crop yield, the decision tree outperformed other classifiers with an accuracy of 96% and 95.86%, respectively. The most significant irrigation type and fertilizer for increasing areca nut crop yield are also identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areca nut (AN), the fruit or seed of Areca catechu Linn, has many uses, including chewing and medicinal purposes. It has sparked worries about health due to the presence of alkaloids. Chewing AN may have a variety of negative consequences; however, the medicinal use of AN has no notable adverse effects. To completely understand and effectively use AN, researchers have investigated its chemical makeup or biological activity, analyzed the variations between different AN species and different periods, and improved extraction and processing procedures. Today, an increasing number of researchers are exploring the underlying reasons for AN variations, as well as the molecular mechanisms of biosynthesis of chemical components, to comprehend and change AN at the genetic level. This review presents an overview of the clinical study, pharmacology, and detection of the main bioactive components in AN, and the main factors influencing their content, delving into the omics applications in AN research. On the basis of the discussions and summaries, this review identifies current research gaps and proposes future directions for investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The potential of plants as anthelmintics is very large, but there is still very little research conducted in the search for effective, safe, easily obtained, and affordable anthelmintic candidates. Palem putri (Veitchia merrillii) is an ornamental plant that is interesting to study because it is included in the areca nut group which is reported to have strong abilities as anthelmintics. The study aims to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of Veitchia merrillii against trematode worms such as Paramphistomum spp. and Fasciola hepatica. Materials and Methods: This research employs both in vitro and computational techniques. An anthelmintic in vitro test was carried out on Paramphistomum spp. worms at concentrations of 10%, 25%, and 40% (gr/v), assessing mortality index as the observable outcome, followed by a histopathological investigation of the deceased worms for tissue and cellular damage evaluation. Seventeen compounds from V. merrillii seeds were studied in silico for their anthelmintic activity against F. hepatica worms using the quantitative structure-activity relationship technique, molecular docking, and Lipinski's rule analysis for orally administered medication. Results: About 25% and 40% extracts of V. merrillii damaged the tegument organs in the worms. Seventeen compounds in V. merrillii seed extract, on average, yielded a higher anthelmintic index on F. hepatica than praziquantel. Eleven of the 17 compounds exhibit stronger affinity than praziquantel, with routine and gallic acid being the top two ligands (Î"Gbinding values: -11.65 kcal/mol and -11.07 kcal/mol, respectively). According to Lipinski's rule analysis, only routine compounds cannot be orally administered. Conclusion: The seeds of V. merrilli have potential as an anthelmintic agent for Paramphistomum spp. at concentrations of 25%-40% (gr/v). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Habitual betel quid chewing, a tobacco product, is a leading cause of oral cancer in Asia–Pacific countries where this practice is most prevalent. However, it is not well understood whether betel quid chewing is also a cause of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic literature review of peer‐reviewed published studies evaluating the association between habitual betel quid use on the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: We searched PubMed for studies assessing the correlation between betel quid chewing and cardiovascular health. We included studies if (i) they included human subjects; (ii) were peer‐reviewed articles in indexed journals; and (iii) were in English. We extracted data from eligible studies and stratified them by geographical location, study designs and cardiovascular outcomes. Finally, we did a narrative synthesis of the data to identify adverse cardiovascular outcomes associated with chronic betel quid use. Findings: We reviewed data from 19 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Habitual betel quid chewing was associated with hypertension, atherosclerosis, inflammation and ischaemic heart disease. In addition, betel quid use was a risk factor for arrhythmias. Interestingly, betel quid use was an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease in women. Long‐term betel quid consumption was associated with higher risks for all‐cause mortality and increased overall cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: Habitual betel quid chewing is an important cardiovascular risk factor in populations where the practice is prevalent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Betel quid (BQ) is globally the fourth most consumed psychoactive substance. It is consumed by an estimated 600 million people worldwide, accounting for nearly 8% of the world's population. There have been very few studies assessing chewers' motivation to quit. Objectives: In the current study, we sought to understand the relationship between several cessation-relevant variables and chewers' motivation to quit. Hypotheses: Based on analogous research on cigarette smoking, we hypothesized that the following cessation-relevant variables would be associated with motivation to quit: health risk perceptions, number of chews per day, cost, degree of BQ dependence, withdrawal symptoms, number of quit attempts, reasons for use, personal health improvement, and type of BQ chewed. Methods: A total of 351 adult BQ chewers from Guam participated in the survey and served as the sample for the analyses. Results: Majority of chewers want to quit and intend to quit. Chewers relatively high in motivation to quit evinced greater health risk perceptions of BQ chewing, greater perceived health benefits to quitting, and a greater number of past quit attempts, compared to those relatively low in motivation to quit. Conclusions: Understanding which factors are associated with chewers' motivation to quit can be helpful for designing BQ cessation programs. The results suggest that BQ cessation programs could be improved by an increased emphasis on information about the negative health effects of BQ chewing and relapse-prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a global health concern, particularly affecting the South Asian population. The South Asian community is among Canada's largest and most rapidly expanding minority groups. This study compared the outcomes of South Asian patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma to the general population at a Canadian cancer center. In total, 697 patients who underwent surgery for oral squamous cell carcinoma between 2009 and 2022 were evaluated, with South Asian patients constituting 9% of the cohort. Despite similar tumor characteristics and treatments, South Asian patients had double the risk of cancer recurrence and significantly worse survival compared to non-South Asian patients. Understanding the association between South Asian ethnicity and outcomes in OSCC is crucial for informing public health initiatives to meet the distinctive needs of this population, thus fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. (1) Background: To compare oncologic outcomes of South Asian (SA) patients treated for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to the general population. (2) Methods: Adult patients who underwent surgical resection of OSCC +/− adjuvant treatment between 2009 and 2022 (N = 697) at a regional cancer centre in Canada were included. SA patients, identified using a validated method, were compared to non-SA patients. Kaplan–Meier methods were used to compare the primary outcomes, disease-specific survival (DSS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) across baseline univariate characteristics, including betel nut consumption. Median follow-up time was 36.4 months. Cox proportional hazard models were used to identify independent predictors of survival with significance set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: SA patients (9% of cohort, N = 64) were significantly younger and had lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption compared to non-SA patients (p < 0.05). SA patients had a two-fold higher risk of recurrence and significantly worse disease-specific survival, even after adjusting for stage and high-risk features [RFS: HR 2.01 (1.28–3.14), DSS: HR 1.79 (1.12–2.88)]. The consumption of betel nut was not associated with outcomes. (4) Conclusions: SA patients had significantly worse oncologic outcomes, even after controlling for known predictors of poor prognosis. These findings are novel and can inform personalized treatment decisions and influence public health policies when managing patients with different ethnic backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arecoline, the predominant bioactive substance extracted from areca nut (AN), is the world's fourth most frequently used psychoactive material. Research has revealed that chewing AN can affect the central nervous system (CNS) and may lead to neurocognitive deficits that are possibly linked to the action of arecoline. However, the mechanism behind the neurotoxicity caused by arecoline remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the neurotoxic effects of arecoline and its underlying mechanism. The results showed that arecoline caused cytotoxicity against HT22 cells in a dose‐dependent manner and induced apoptosis by upregulating the expression of pro‐apoptotic caspase and Bcl‐2 family proteins. Furthermore, arecoline escalated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and Ca2+ concentration with increasing doses, thereby motivating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and ERS‐associated apoptotic protein expression. Additionally, the study found that arecoline attenuates intracellular antioxidant defense by inhibiting the translocation of NF‐E2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2) into the nucleus and decreasing downstream Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) levels. The specific inhibitor Sodium 4‐phenylbutyrate (4‐PBA) can dramatically attenuate arecoline‐mediated cell apoptosis and ERS‐associated apoptotic pathway expression by blocking ERS. The antioxidant N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) also effectively reverses the arecoline‐mediated increase of ERS‐related apoptotic pathway protein levels by scavenging intracellular ROS accumulation. In conclusion, this study suggests that arecoline induces neurotoxicity in HT22 cells via ERS mediated by oxidative stress‐ and Ca2+ disturbance, as well as by downregulation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many tropical landscapes have experienced the loss of traditional cultivation practices as they have transitioned to other land use systems.The Tanintharyi Region of southern Myanmar is a landscape experiencing a rapid land use regime shift from traditional subsistence farming to permanent cash crop agriculture. Despite previous research in this region on the expansion of large‐scale agribusiness, such as oil palm and rubber plantations, little is known about how the small‐scale shifting cultivation system practiced by the local Karen ethnic people in Tanintharyi has changed over recent decades or the underlying reasons for this transition.Our study explores this transition process and its drivers from a social and land system change perspective in four villages of Bokpyin Township in Tanintharyi. We investigated the drivers of land cover and land use change by collecting information through focus groups and individual interviews with community members who previously practised shifting cultivation. We also quantified the overall change in land cover and land use through remote sensing analysis of Landsat 8 (2020) and declassified KH‐9 satellite imagery (1976).Prior to a period of civil war in the 1980s, cultivators used a traditional 'slash‐and‐burn' agricultural system for subsistence use. The present land use system is dominated by permanent betel nut cultivation, which represents the primary income source for farming households. The reported drivers of the transition to cash crop farming are greater income potential and livelihood security, risk of losing fallow land due to the needs for new cultivation areas for in‐migration and new centralized land use policies and administration after the national ceasefire agreement in 2012. The documented change in land use systems has been paired with a concurrent net loss of forest that, given the conflicted governance within the landscape, seems likely to continue without additional land use planning efforts.Our study contributes to an increased understanding of changes in shifting cultivation systems that are being documented globally. Furthermore, our example of combining qualitative interviews with analysis of historical satellite imagery to detect and explain land use regime shifts can serve as a model for future work in different landscapes. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a study that investigated the serum levels of neurotensin, pannexin-1, and sestrin-2 in individuals with chronic insomnia disorder (CID) and their relationship with sleep quality and cognitive function. The study found that CID patients had elevated levels of neurotensin and pannexin-1, and decreased levels of sestrin-2 compared to healthy individuals. These biomarkers were associated with objective measures of sleep quality and cognitive function. The findings suggest that neuronal dysfunction may contribute to the impaired sleep quality and cognitive dysfunction observed in CID patients. [Extracted from the article]

Evidence for seed transmission of phytoplasmas has grown in several pathosystems including coconut (Cocos nucifera). Bogia coconut syndrome (BCS) is a disease associated with the lethal yellowing syndrome associated with the presence of 'Candidatus Phytoplasma noviguineense' that affects coconut, betel nut (Areca catechu) and bananas (Musa spp.) in Papua New Guinea. Coconut and betel nut drupes were sampled from BCS-infected areas in Papua New Guinea, dissected, the extracted nucleic acid was used in polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) used to check for presence of phytoplasma DNA. In a second study, drupes of both plant species were collected from multiple field sites and grown in insect-proof cages. Leaf samples taken at 6 months were also tested with PCR and LAMP. The studies of dissected coconut drupes detected phytoplasma DNA in several tissues including the embryo. Drupes from betel nut tested negative. Among the seedlings, evidence of possible seed transmission was found in both plant species. The results demonstrate the presence of 'Ca. P. noviguineense' in coconut drupes and seedlings, and in seedlings of betel nut; factors that need to be considered in ongoing management and containment efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate the vertical diversity of soil dehydrogenase and phosphatase activity under coconut (Cocosnucifera L.,) and arecanut (Arecacatechu L.,) plantations within four soil depths (0–30, 30–60, 60–90, and 90–120 cm) and to determine the factors controlling the distribution across the different agro-climatic zones of Karnataka. A total of 176 soil samples from 30 soil profiles were collected from coconut and arecanut plantations representing 5 different agroclimatic zones (ACZ) and three soil types (Lixisols, Сambisols, and Acrisols) and analyzed for three major soil enzymes viz. dehydrogenase (DHA), acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The results revealed that the pooled mean of DHA activity was higher in arecanut (7.44 µg TPF g–1 h–1) than coconut (5.75 µg TPF g–1 h–1) and the same pattern has been noticed in both ACP (84.041 and 48.19 µg PnP g–1 h–1 for arecanut and coconut plantations) and ALP (63.57 and 32.14 µg PnP g–1 h–1 for arecanut and coconut plantations). The impact of climate on soil enzyme activity showed that the southern dry zone (SDZ) was high in DHA (10.5 µg TPF g–1 h–1) and ALP (77.98 µg PnP g–1 h–1) activities followed by the eastern dry zone and the lowest was noticed in the coastal zone (CZ). However, ACP activity was higher in CZ (110.24 µg PnP g–1 h–1) and lower in SDZ (33.85 µg PnP g–1 h–1). As soil depth increases enzyme activity is decreased and nearly 50% of enzyme activities are restricted within 0–30 cm soil depth. We observed that greater activity of DHA and ALP was noticed in Lixisols than in Acrisols and Cambisols, whereas higher activity of ACP was found in Acrisols. Our analysis showed that the type of plantations, climate and soil type significantly affect the distribution of enzymes in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many croplands in the tropics of China have been converted over the last decades into areca nut plantations due to their high economic returns. This land-use transition was accompanied by changes in agricultural practices such as soil moisture regimes and fertilizer inputs, which may affect soil organic carbon (SOC) and its fractions, especially in tropical soils with low fertility and high nitrogen loss. Yet, how the time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations affects soil carbon dynamics and their underlying mechanisms in the tropics of China remains elusive. Here, areca nut plantation soils with different ages (2, 5, 10, 14, and 17 years) and paddy fields in the tropical region of China were investigated. The study result indicates that the contents of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), particulate organic carbon (POC), easily oxidized organic carbon (EOC), light organic carbon (LFOC), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) decreased significantly with increased time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations. Similarly, the ratios of DOC/SOC, MBC/SOC, POC/SOC, LFOC/SOC, and EOC/SOC decreased significantly with increased time since land-use transition. Compared with the paddy soil, the carbon pool management index decreased by 36.6–76.7% under the areca nut plantations, concluding that increasing the time since land-use transition from rice paddy cultivation to areca nut plantations with high application rates of chemical fertilizers resulted in reduced soil active carbon fractions and SOC supply capacity. Therefore, agricultural practices such as the use of organic fertilizers should be applied to improve the soil's ability to supply organic carbon in managed plantation ecosystems in the tropics of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In surveys conducted from 2020 to 2022, five leaf samples each from symptomatic Agele marmelos trees and seedlings, along with five samples from asymptomatic trees and seedlings, were collected in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. The DNA extraction from all the samples was subjected to nested PCR assays, using the universal phytoplasma-specific primers set (P1/P7 followed by R16F2n/R16R2). The resulting 1.2 kb amplified products were observed in all the symptomatic samples but not in the asymptomatic samples. Bael phytoplasma strain sequences from the trees and seedlings were found 100% identical within themselves and only two representative sequences (one each from tree and seedling) were deposited in GenBank (NCBI) as PP415872 (AmA-1) and PP415873 (AmA-2). BLASTn searches revealed the maximum (100%) sequence identity with a phytoplasma strain from murraya little leaf strain of Faizabad (GenBank Acc.no. OP984129) and lowest (99.84%) with arecanut crown choking of Shimoga (GenBank Acc. no. OM417502) from Karnataka. Phylogenetic analysis clustered the bael phytoplasma isolates with peanut witches' broom group phytoplasma strains. Virtual RFLP analysis confirmed their identity as 'Ca. P. australasiaticum', a 16SrII-D subgroup strain. This study presents the first identification of a phytoplasma strain in A. marmelos, emphasizing its potential threat to fruit crops and the need for vigilance in nursery practices to prevent further dissemination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For R/M HNSCC, the differences in prognosis and treatment options between distant metastasis (DM) and locoregional recurrence, especially in the DM group, remain unclear. Methods: From the Taiwan Head Neck Society registry database, patients who were diagnosed with R/M HNSCC and received cetuximab‐based frontline therapy were collected for analysis. Results: Among the enrolled patients, 59.3% (491/827) belonged to the DM group. The DM group had less primary site of oral cavity, less betel nut chewing, higher lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, and higher LDH/albumin ratio compared with the non‐DM group. For the patients with primary site of oral cavity and current smokers, DM coexisted with poorer outcomes. In the DM group, EXTREME‐like regimen was more suitable for older patients, those with elevated LDH, and those with higher LDH/albumin ratio than TPExtreme‐like regimen. Conclusion: DM coexisted with poorer prognosis in certain groups. LDH‐associated biomarkers may aid treatment options for DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a precancerous lesion characterized by fibrous tissue deposition, the incidence of which correlates positively with the frequency of betel nut chewing. Prolonged betel nut chewing can damage the integrity of the oral mucosal epithelium, leading to chronic inflammation and local immunological derangement. However, currently, the underlying cellular events driving fibrogenesis and dysfunction are incompletely understood, such that OSF has few treatment options with limited therapeutic effectiveness. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) have been recognized for their anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrosis capabilities, making them promising candidates to treat a range of immune, inflammatory, and fibrotic diseases. However, the application of DPSCs in OSF is inconclusive. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the pathogenic mechanism of OSF and, based on this, to explore new treatment options. Methods: A human cell atlas of oral mucosal tissues was compiled using single-cell RNA sequencing to delve into the underlying mechanisms. Epithelial cells were reclustered to observe the heterogeneity of OSF epithelial cells and their communication with immune cells. The results were validated in vitro, in clinicopathological sections, and in animal models. In vivo, the therapeutic effect and mechanism of DPSCs were characterized by histological staining, immunohistochemical staining, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Results: A unique epithelial cell population, Epi1.2, with proinflammatory and profibrotic functions, was predominantly found in OSF. Epi1.2 cells also induced the fibrotic process in fibroblasts by interacting with T cells through receptor-ligand crosstalk between macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)-CD74 and C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). Furthermore, we developed OSF animal models and simulated the clinical local injection process in the rat buccal mucosa using DPSCs to assess their therapeutic impact and mechanism. In the OSF rat model, DPSCs demonstrated superior therapeutic effects compared with the positive control (glucocorticoids), including reducing collagen deposition and promoting blood vessel regeneration. DPSCs mediated immune homeostasis primarily by regulating the numbers of KRT19 + MIF + epithelial cells and via epithelial-stromal crosstalk. Conclusions: Given the current ambiguity surrounding the cause of OSF and the limited treatment options available, our study reveals that epithelial cells and their crosstalk with T cells play an important role in the mechanism of OSF and suggests the therapeutic promise of DPSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]