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Biogas contains significant quantities of undesirable and toxic compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), posing severe concerns when used in energy production-related applications. Therefore, biogas needs to be upgraded by removing H2S to increase their bioenergy application attractiveness and lower negative environmental impacts. Commercially available biogas upgradation processes can be expensive for small and medium-scale biogas production plants, such as wastewater treatment facilities via anaerobic digestion process. In addition, an all-inclusive review detailing a comparison of biochar and hydrochar for H2S removal is currently unavailable. Therefore, the current study aimed to critically and systematically review the application of biochar/hydrochar for H2S removal from biogas. To achieve this, the first part of the review critically discussed the production technologies and properties of biochar vs. hydrochar. In addition, exisiting technologies for H2S removal and adsorption mechanisms, namely physical adsorption, reactive adsorption, and chemisorption, responsible for H2S removal with char materials were discussed. Also, the factors, including feedstock type, activation strategies, reaction temperature, moisture content, and other process parameters that could influence the adsorption behaviour are critically summarised. Finally, synergy and trade-offs between char and biogas production sectors and the techno-economic feasibility of using char for the adsorption of H2S are presented. Biochar's excellent structural properties coupled with alkaline pH and high metal content, facilitate physisorption and chemisorption as pathways for H2S removal. In the case of hydrochar, H2S removal occurs mainly via chemisorption, which can be attributed to well-preserved surface functional groups. Challenges of using biochar/hydrochar as commercial adsorbents for H2S removal from biogas stream were highlighted and perspectives for future research were provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hospitalized patients on mechanical ventilation are at high-risk of developing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), making early and accurate diagnosis essential for the best possible treatment outcomes. This review examined various laboratory techniques, such as aerobic cultures, Gram's stain, and molecular techniques, to assess how well they diagnose VAP. We have done search strategies using Google Scholar, Medline Complete, and PubMed. Extensive statistical tools were utilized to examine studies and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of laboratory results. Multiplex PCR was superior to Gram's stain and culture methods in terms of sensitivity (92%) and specificity (86%). On the other hand, Gram's stain showed the highest specificity (78.9%) and the lowest sensitivity (74.6%). The results of semiquantitative, quantitative, enrichment culture showed a lower specificity (75.97%) but a moderate sensitivity (78.5%). The most accurate diagnostic approach for VAP, according to a meta-analysis, was multiplex PCR-based testing, closely followed by culture methods. Beyond separate tests, multiplex PCR, culture, and Gram's stain combination increased sensitivity. Prompt and precise VAP diagnosis is essential for efficient treatment. With possible improvements through combination diagnostic techniques, multiplex PCR remains the most accurate diagnostic tool. However, more investigation is necessary to improve and certify VAP diagnostic instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) causes the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which is characterised by severe respiratory syndrome and other complications. It is a serious threat to global public health if proper vaccination is not followed. The efficient COVID-19 management requires vaccination along with other precautionary measures. Public transmission of COVID-19 seems to have decreased and immune response to viral infections has improved by vaccination. The present review discusses in detail about the current situation of the COVID-19, based on the latest reports about approved vaccine types and their efficacy, vaccination status, and various SARS-CoV-2 variants. This review also includes insights into the post-COVID complications in recovered patients. Besides, some of the ill-effects of drugs in inducing other diseases in COVID-19 recovered patients, are also discussed in this review article. This study will help the researchers to prepare strategies for further research on vaccine production and prevent the occurrence of the disease in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate pathological epidemiology and molecular confirmation of Ehrlichia canis among pet dogs in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a state in eastern India. A total of 178 dogs were screened for Ehrlichiosis based on history, clinical signs, blood, and buffy coat smear examination, resulting in only 56 dogs (31.46%) screening positive. The epidemiological study recorded a non-significant (p ≥ 0.05) increase in incidences among male dogs (68%), German Shepherds (25%), dogs more than 20 kg body weight (75%), in the summer months (55%), and dogs housed in pukka houses with exposure to the outside (59%). The majority of the infected dogs had a history of tick infestation (79%) at some point in their lives. Clinical signs showed non-typical manifestations like fever, lethargy, diarrhoea, epistaxis, hind limb edema, and corneal opacity. Haematological studies revealed anaemia and thrombocytopenia along with neutrophilia with relative lymphopenia and monocytosis. A decreasing trend was observed in the levels of total protein and albumin, with an increase in the levels of globulin, alanine aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine. The ultrasonography studies revealed hepatosplenomegaly along with hyper-echogenicity in various organs. Proteinuria and haematuria were consistent, along with the presence of bile salts in the urine of affected dogs. Molecular confirmation from n-type PCR data using Ehrlichia-specific primers targeting the p28 gene (843 bp) was done, and the identified gene sequences submitted to NCBI databases have accession numbers OQ383671-OQ383674 and OP886674-OP886677. Ticks collected from dogs were identified morphologically through microscopy and scanning electron microscopy as Rhipicephalus sanguineus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies suggest that the world is facing an energy crisis due to the depletion of fossil fuel reserves. To combat this issue, researchers have turned to biodiesel, a renewable bioenergy source made from vegetable oils, microalgae, and animal fats. A recent study analysed engine parts' particulate matter emissions and carbon deposition during the long-term use of mustard biodiesel and clove oil as antioxidants in a compression ignition engine. Three samples of fuels: DF (diesel fuel), B30 (30% mustard biodiesel and 70% DF), and biodiesel blended fuel with 3000 PPM in a single-cylinder CI engine. The use of 30% biodiesel in diesel fuel (B30) for the endurance test was based on a good mix. The engine was run for 100 h to investigate the particulate matter emissions and carbon deposition. The particulate matter emission data was collected every 25 h, and for carbon deposition, the engine's fuel injector was turned off after 100 h of engine running. The results showed a reduction in particulate matter emissions of about 9.97%, 13.367%, 7.24%, 14.64%, 5.3%, 12.32%, 1.88%, and 7.99% for PM1, PM2.5, PM7, and PM10 in biodiesel blended fuel and biodiesel blended fuel with clove oil, respectively. The deposition of clove oil added to biodiesel blended fuel in the fuel injector has been reduced compared with the other fuels. Carbon deposition of the fuel injector was analysed through SEM and EDX tests, and the results showed that the carbon content in biodiesel blended fuel was lower than in diesel fuel. The deposition of clove oil added to biodiesel blended fuel in the fuel injector has been reduced compared with biodiesel blended fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of fluorinated synthetic chemicals that are highly recalcitrant, toxic, and bio-accumulative and have been detected in biosolids worldwide, posing potential risks to humans and the environment. Recent studies suggest that the organic C-F bond in PFAS can be destructed and potentially mineralised into inorganic fluorides during thermal treatment. This study focuses on thermodynamic equilibrium investigations and the fate of fluorine compounds post-PFAS destruction during biosolid thermal treatment. The results indicate that gas-phase fluorine compounds are mainly hydrogen fluoride (HF) and alkali fluorides, whereas solid-phase fluorine compounds include alkaline earth fluorides and their spinels. High moisture and oxygen content in the volatiles increased the concentration of HF in the gas phase. However, adding minerals reduced the emission of HF in the gas phase significantly and enhanced the capture of fluorine as CaF2 spinel in the solid phase. This study also investigates the effect of feedstock composition on the fate of fluorine. High ash content and low volatile matter in the feedstock reduced HF gas emissions and increased fluorine capture in the solid product. The findings of this work are useful in designing thermal systems with optimised operating conditions for minimising the release of fluorinated species during the thermal treatment of PFAS-containing biosolids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a major health care associated infection which usually emanates from aspiration, immigration of pathogens from aerodigestive tract, adulterated appliance uses or medications. The mortality rate due to VAP is approximately 13% and the causative organisms are bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Many studies have investigated the causative organisms as Pseudomonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus with varying prevalence. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admitted patients who are ventilated, are more prone to the infections where the pathogens adhere to the mucosa of lower respiratory tract of mechanically ventilated patients and start infections. Clinical diagnosis based on Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS) has poor specificity and microbiological findings takes 48-72 hrs, that can delay the treatment of patients. Lymphopenia on complete blood count is a predictor of mortality in VAP patients, but decreased lymphocyte count occurs in various other infections too. Multiplex PCR is a better diagnostic technique for VAP which can even diagnose atypical bacteria along with other etiological agents. Effectively employing sampling techniques is a vital step in the diagnosis of VAP, enabling the identification of pathogens responsible for lung infections. Furthermore, the emergence of novel therapeutic options approved by regulatory bodies, adds significant advancements in VAP treatment. In this review article, we have performed an in-depth study on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapeutic strategies involved in VAP. This study will help the researchers working in this area to design their work appropriately with the updated knowledge on VAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Getting socially connected with others is a human instinct. Social media facilitates this human need. These internet driven platform includes various contact channels such as social networking, blogs, multimedia sites, company-sponsored websites, collaborative websites, podcasts etc. providing interaction, information and entertainment services Social media has became an integral part of our day to day life. Facebook YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, twitter, linkedin, pinterest, whatsapp, snapchart are the some of well known names among social medias. Business organizations use these as key marketing channels since their conception. They also played vital role in online shopping. Social media has revolutionized consumer purchasing behavior over the last few years, directly impacting the way they behave during shopping products and services. Business through Social media or social commerce is now an innovative market with very high growth trajectory. Covid-19 has accelerated these trends in shopper behavior. The pandemic has enforced more shoppers to be online than ever before. This study analyzes the way social media has affected the online shopping behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infertility is a major problem in farm animals, which has a negative economic effect on farm industries. Infertility can be defined as the inability of animals to achieve a successful pregnancy. Early pregnancy is crucial to establish a successful pregnancy, and it is reported that 70–80% and 20–30% of total embryonic loss occur in cattle and pigs, respectively, during the first month of pregnancy. The advanced high-throughput proteomics techniques provide valuable tools for in-depth understanding of the implantation process in farm animals. In the present review, our goal was to compile, assess, and integrate the latest proteomic research on farm animals, specifically focused on female reproduction, which involves endometrial tissues, uterine fluids, oviductal fluids, and microRNAs. The series of studies has provided in-depth insights into the events of the implantation process by unfolding the molecular landscape of the uterine tract. The discussed data are related to pregnant vs. non-pregnant animals, pregnancy vs. oestrous cycle, different days of the early pregnancy phase, and animals with uterine infections affecting reproduction health. Some of the studies have utilized non-invasive methods and in vitro models to decipher the molecular events of embryo-maternal interaction. The proteomics data are valuable sources for discovering biomarkers for infertility in ruminants and new regulatory pathways governing embryo-uterine interaction, endometrium receptivity, and embryonic development. Here, we envisage that the identified protein signatures can serve as potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers to develop new therapeutics against pregnancy diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a serious pregnancy complication that affects around 14 % of pregnancies worldwide. It not only causes short-term complications in the mother and child but also significantly increases the risks of several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. An excess production of the soluble vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 1 in the placenta, which is a natural inhibitor of VEGF, has been linked to various pregnancy complications. However, placentas affected by GDM often exhibit increased vascularization, suggesting that the role of VEGF in GDM differs from its impact on typical pregnancy complications. Unfortunately, limited studies on placental functions in GDM have been conducted due to a lack of reliable culture models. Methods: In this study, we developed an in vitro model of GDM using the human choriocarcinoma trophoblast cell line BeWo and examined the effects of VEGF on glucose uptake. The BeWo cells were treated with a high glucose-containing (25 mM) syncytialization differentiation medium to produce insulin-resistant cells. Insulin resistance was assessed by a glucose uptake assay using the fluorescent glucose analog 2-NBDG and flow cytometry analysis. Results: The cells treated with high glucose exhibited a significant decrease in glucose uptake, suggesting the successful development of glucose resistance in these cells. However, VEGF treatment did not show a significant impact on glucose uptake in high glucose-treated cells. Conclusions: It is important to note that glucose homeostasis is a complex process involving multiple cell types, and further studies are necessary to fully understand the functions of VEGF on GDM placentas. Nevertheless, the in vitro model we have developed and validated will be a valuable tool for studying placental pathophysiology in GDM and evaluating the effectiveness of potential therapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mammary gland is a dynamic organ with various physiological processes like cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis during the pregnancy-lactation-involution cycle. It is essential to understand the molecular changes during the lactogenic differentiation of mammary epithelial cells (MECs, the milk-synthesizing cells). The MECs are organized as luminal milk-secreting cells and basal myoepithelial cells (responsible for milk ejection by contraction) that form the alveoli. The branching morphogenesis and lactogenic differentiation of the MECs prepare the gland for lactation. This process is governed by many molecular mediators including hormones, growth factors, cytokines, miRNAs, regulatory proteins, etc. Interestingly, various signalling pathways guide lactation and understanding these molecular transitions from pregnancy to lactation will help researchers design further research. Manipulation of genes responsible for milk synthesis and secretion will promote augmentation of milk yield in dairy animals. Identifying protein signatures of lactation will help develop strategies for persistent lactation and shortening the dry period in farm animals. The present review article discusses in details the physiological and molecular changes occurring during lactogenic differentiation of MECs and the associated hormones, regulatory proteins, miRNAs, and signalling pathways. An in-depth knowledge of the molecular events will aid in developing engineered cellular models for studies related to mammary gland diseases of humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sangmi Lee's book, "Reclaiming Diasporic Identity: Transnational Continuity and National Fragmentation in the Hmong Diaspora," provides an in-depth analysis of the contemporary experiences of Hmong people in Vang Vieng, Laos, and Sacramento, California. The book explores the nyuj dab ritual in Dao Tha as an example of the transnational connections and relations that Hmong communities have with other diasporic locations worldwide. It also examines how diasporic identities are shaped by a sense of belonging to transnational ethnic communities and partial affiliation with the nation-states in which they reside. The book is divided into three parts, covering the historical formation of the Hmong diaspora, transnational ethnic and cultural continuity, and cultural differences and discursive fragmentation. The author argues that diasporic connections and national sentiments are not inherently opposed but mutually constitutive. The book offers valuable insights into Hmong communities and will be of interest to scholars in diaspora studies, sociology, anthropology, and political sociology. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The objective of the study was to use docking and pharmacological research to explore phytochemicals as therapeutic candidates for the treatment of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Methods: The 100 plant compounds for the study were selected after a thorough review of the most recent literature using PubMed and Google Scholar. Three-dimensional structure in Structure-Data File Format of all phytochemicals was downloaded and collected from the PubChem platform. In parallel, the three-dimensional structure of the target protein dipeptidyl peptidase-4 in Protein Data Bank (PDB) format was obtained from the website of the Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics-PDB. AutoDock Vina software was used for the docking purpose. SwissADME and the admetSAR web server were used to further examine the top docked compounds for the pharmacological investigation. Results: Out of 100 phytochemicals, only 15 have shown better or comparable binding affinity above the benchmark medication, sitagliptin (−7.9 kcal/mol). All of these compounds were assessed to determine their viability as potential drugs by predicting their Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) properties. Two of these phytochemicals have proven their potential as medication candidates by passing the ADMET requirements. Conclusions: In silico studies help explore and find drug candidates among the enormous pool of phytochemicals and narrow down the screening process, saving time and money on experiments. In vitro and in vivo testing can be used in the future to further validate drug candidature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]