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As investigations in the biomedical applications of plasma advance, a demand for describing safe and efficacious delivery of plasma is emerging. It is quite clear that not all plasmas are "equal" for all applications. This Perspective discusses limitations of the existing parameters used to define plasma in context of the need for the "right plasma" at the "right dose" for each "disease system." The validity of results extrapolated from in vitro studies to preclinical and clinical applications is discussed. We make a case for studying the whole system as a single unit, in situ. Furthermore, we argue that while plasma-generated chemical species are the proposed key effectors in biological systems, the contribution of physical effectors (electric fields, surface charging, dielectric properties of target, changes in gap electric fields, etc.) must not be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: White spot lesions are more susceptible to staining agents due to their porous structure. This study examines the impact of white spot lesion treatments on discoloration caused by pediatric supplements. Method and materials: Three treatments (fluoride, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate [CPP-ACP], resin infiltration), a control, and their respective syrup-based subgroups (iron and black elderberry syrups) were established, each with eight teeth. Artificial white spot lesions were induced, and weekly applications of fluoride varnish, daily applications of CPP-ACP paste, or a single resin infiltration procedure were performed on the white spot lesions within the treatment groups over 4 weeks. Simultaneously, samples were exposed daily to iron or black elderberry syrups. Spectrophotometer measurements were taken at baseline, after demineralization (T0), and after 1 (T1), 2 (T2), and 4 weeks (T4). ΔE00 values were calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted using a three-way mixed-design ANOVA, with the significance level set at P = .05. Results: At T4, ΔE00 values from all groups exceeded the clinical acceptability limit of 1.8. At T2 and T4, the ΔE00 values obtained from the black elderberry syrup subgroups were significantly higher (P < .001). At T4, the highest ΔE00 values were seen in the CPP-ACP groups (P < .001). The lowest ΔE00 values at T2 and T4 were observed in the resin infiltration groups (P < .05). Conclusions: Supplements containing ferrous sulfate and black elderberry extract caused color changes in white spot lesions that exceeded the clinical acceptability limit. Resin infiltration of white spot lesions provides advantages over remineralization treatments, particularly in minimizing discoloration induced by pediatric supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoplates (SNPs) are particularly attractive in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity due to their unique physicochemical properties, including localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and strongly electromagnetic "hot spots" in the vicinity of their tips and edges. In this study, we report a novel, rapid, and simplified methodology for preparing SNPs using a one-pot synthesis approach with AgNO3, NaBH4, TSC, PVP, and an oxidation agent, H2O2. By adjusting precursor ratios, the LSPR peak can be easily adjusted from 400 to 800 nm, with a change in morphology from spherical, undefined structures, nano-disks, and triangular. In this study, Na2CO3 was added to the reaction to react with excess H2O2 to obtain long-term stable nanoparticles in a colloidal solution for 21 days. Crystal violet (CV) dye was used as a Raman probe to evaluate the SERS performance of SNP substrates at different diameters (35, 60, 120, 210 nm). The results showed that SERS activity was inverse to the SNP diameter. The finite-difference time domain (FDTD) was employed to compute the E-field around SNPs, indicating that E-field intensity depends on the SNPs' size, shape, and LSPR peak position. The 35 nm SNP substrates exhibited high sensitivity and good reproductivity in detecting CV dye, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.020 mg L−1 and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.060 mg L−1. Additionally, SNP substrates can detect sulfathiazole (STZ) at trace-level concentrations, with LOD and LOQ of 0.031 and 0.095 mg L−1, respectively. These studies on silver nanoplate substrates displayed potential for further ultra-trace analysis applications in organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor operational stability is a crucial factor limiting the further application of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Organic semiconductor layers can be a powerful means for reinforcing interfaces and inhibiting ion migration. Herein, two hole‐transporting molecules, pDPA‐SFX and mDPA‐SFX, are synthesized with tuned substituent connection sites. The meta‐substituted mDPA‐SFX results in a larger dipole moment, more ordered packing, and better charge mobility than pDPA‐SFX, accompanying with strong interface bonding on perovskite surfaces and suppressed ion motion as well. Importantly, mDPA‐SFX‐based PSCs exhibit an efficiency that has significantly increased from 22.5 % to 24.8 % and a module‐based efficiency of 19.26 % with an active area of 12.95 cm2. The corresponding cell retain 94.8 % of its initial efficiency at maximum power point tracking (MPPT) after 1,000 h (T95=1,000 h). The MPPT T80 lifetime is as long as 2,238 h. This work illustrates that a small degree of structural variation in organic compounds leaves considerable room for developing new HTMs for light stable PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the biodegradation of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS) and related polymers has become popular and the number of publications on this topic is rapidly increasing. However, there is no convincing evidence that the frequently claimed biodegradability of these so-called "plastics" really exists. Rather, a diffuse definition of the term "biodegradability" has led to the publication of reports showing either marginal weight losses of hydrocarbon polymers by the action of isolated bacterial strains or mechanical disintegration and polymer surface modification in case of hydrocarbon polymer-consuming insect larvae. Most of the data can be alternatively explained by the utilization of polymer impurities/additives, by the utilization of low molecular weight oligomers, and/or by physical fragmentation and subsequent loss of small fragments. Evidence for a (partial) biotic and/or abiotic oxidation of the amorphous polymer fraction and of surface-exposed hydrocarbon side chains is not sufficient to claim that PE is biodegradable. To the best of my knowledge, no report has been so far published in which substantial biodegradation and mineralization of PE or related (long chain length) hydrocarbon polymers to carbon dioxide has been convincingly demonstrated by the determination of the fate of carbon atoms in isotope-labeled polymers. It is disappointing that publications with a critical view on biodegradation of hydrocarbon polymers are not cited in most of these reports. The possibility should be considered that the rapidly expanding research field of hydrocarbon polymer biodegradation is chasing rainbows. • The term "Biodegradation" is not uniformly used in life sciences. • "Biodegradation" should be defined as conversion of an organic compound to H 2 O and CO 2. • Published evidence for biodegradation of hydrocarbon polymers and PVC is not convincing. • Experiments with isotope-labeled hydrocarbon polymers and PVC are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium-polysaccharide (Se-polysaccharide) is an organic Se compound that binds polysaccharides to Se via unique chemical interactions. Se-polysaccharide, as a functional supplement, has minimal harmful effects and is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. Currently, there are three techniques to obtain Se-polysaccharide. Numerous studies have demonstrated that selenization modification can alter the structural and physical characterization of polysaccharide. Furthermore, Se-polysaccharide possesses stronger biological attributes, including immunomodulation, antitumor, antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, heavy metal resistance, neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory, liver protection, and other aspects, than Se and polysaccharide. Scientific studies suggest that Se-polysaccharide has the potential for future development and show that it is an effective treatment for several diseases. This paper systematically introduces the preparation methods of Se-polysaccharide, discusses the impact of selenization modification on the structural and physical characterization of polysaccharide, and analyses the biological activities and potential mechanism of Se-polysaccharides in recent years. Additionally, further research directions are proposed and provided theoretical basis for development of Se-polysaccharide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochemical methane potential (BMP) test is an important tool to evaluate the methane production biodegradability and toxicity of different wastes or wastewaters. This is a key parameter for assessing design and feasibility issues in the full-scale implementation of anaerobic digestion processes. A standardized and storable inoculum is the key to obtain reproducible results. In Uruguay, a local enterprise dedicated to design and install anaerobic digesters operated a lab-scale bioreactor as a source of biomass for BMP tests, using a protocol previously described. This reactor was controlled and fed with a mixture of varied organic compounds (lipids, cellulolytic wastes, proteins). Biomass was reintroduced into the reactor after BMP assays to maintain a constant volume and biomass concentration. The aim of this work was to evaluate how the microbial community evolved during this operation and the effect of storing biomass in the refrigerator. The composition of the microbial communities was analyzed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing using primers for Bacteria and Archaea. The methanogenic activity was determined, and the methanogens were quantified by mcrA qPCR. One sample was stored for a 5-month period in the refrigerator (4 °C); the activity and the microbial community composition were analyzed before and after storage. Results showed that applying the reported methodology, a reliable methanogenic sludge with an acceptable SMA was obtained even though the reactor suffered biomass alterations along the evaluated period. Refrigerating the acclimatized biomass for 5 months did not affect its activity nor its microbial composition according to the 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, even though changes in the mcrA abundance were observed. Key points: • The applied methodology was successful to obtain biomass suitable to perform BMP assays. • The microbial community was resilient to external biomass addition. • Biomass storage at 4 °C for 5 months did not alter the methanogenic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,4‐Dihydropyridines (1,4‐DHPs) represent a versatile class of organic compounds derived from pyridines, recognized for their extensive synthetic applications and significant medical significances. Among the various synthetic methodologies available, the Hantzsch dihydropyridine synthesis is particularly notable as it provides a reliable approach to the production of these compounds. Recent advancements have markedly improved the synthetic pathways leading to Hantzsch dihydropyridines and their derivatives. This review aims to thoroughly examine the recent progress in the synthesis of 1,4‐DHPs, 1,8‐dioxodecahydroacridines (AD), and polyhydroquinolines (PHQ). Emphasis is placed on novel synthetic strategies reported in recent years, specifically those that employ multicomponent reactions involving aldehydes, β‐ketoesters, and ammonium salts. Furthermore, these reactions are catalyzed by various nanocatalysts, including magnetic nanoparticles, nanocomposites, metal oxides, functionalized nanoparticles, and other environmentally friendly nanobiomaterials. The application of nanocatalysts in these processes is underscored by their contributions to structural integrity and activity enhancement, indicative of a paradigm shifts towards more sustainable and efficient synthetic methodologies. This review consolidates and assesses various synthetic routes facilitated by nanocatalysts while elucidating their distinct roles in improving the efficiency and selectivity of 1,4‐DHP synthesis. Hence, this review may pave the way for advancements in Hantzsch reactions by employing nanomaterial catalysts for the sustainable production of 1,4‐DHP derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tectonic of the Middle and Late Ordovician in the western margin of the north China Platform is complex, and the accumulation models of organic matter of the Wulalike Formation formed during this period are still unclear. Total organic carbon (TOC) content, mineral composition, organic carbon isotope composition, as well as the major and trace elements in the shale samples were all measured in this study. The Wulalike Formation was formed during a tectonic transition from a passive continental margin to an active continental margin. Hydrocarbon-forming organisms are mainly algae. Primary productivity, terrigenous input, and sedimentation rates influence input, dilution, and degradation of organic matter. The degree of degradation, redox, and basin restriction control the preservation of organic matter. The TOC of the Wulalike Formation is determined by the input and preservation degree of organic matter at different sedimentary periods. The organic matter accumulation model in the Wulalike Formation is controlled by regional structures, dominated by sedimentation rate and preservation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid‐state emission is pivotal for the functionality of organic compounds in opto‐electronic applications. Yet, tailoring the emission characteristics of existing solid‐state emissive organic frameworks is a challenging task, primarily due to their intricate structure‐activity interplay. In this study, an innovative family of solid‐state luminogens, centered around the dibenzosuberenylidene core are introduced. These luminogens are characterized by a remarkable excited‐state aromatization‐induced structural planarization (ESAISP) behavior. This unique feature allows for the modulation of their fluorescence properties, including color and intensity, through simple structural alterations, opening new avenues in the development of organic advanced functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We employed two compelling and distinct methods, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Ramped Pyrolysis Oxidation (Ramped PyrOx), to examine the quality of organic matter (OM) stored in four peatlands located along a latitudinal gradient (Tropical (4˚N), Subtropical (27˚N), Boreal (48˚N), and Polar (68˚N)). FTIR was used to quantify the relative abundance of carbohydrates, a relatively labile compound class, and aromatics, which are more recalcitrant, in a sample set of four peat cores. These samples were then prepared using Ramped PyrOx, a second, independent method of determining OM quality that mimics the natural diagenetic maturation of OM that would take place over long timescales. Previous large-scale studies using FTIR to evaluate OM quality have observed that it generally increases with increasing latitude (more carbohydrates, less aromatics). Here, we demonstrate that the Ramped PyrOx approach both validates and complements the FTIR approach. The data stemming from each Ramped PyrOx preparation was input to a model that generates an estimated probability density function of the activation energy (E) required to break the C bonds in the sample. We separated these functions into three fractions ("low E," "medium E," and "high E") to create Ramped PyrOx variables that could be quantitatively compared to the compound class abundance data from FTIR. In assessing the agreement between the two methods, we found three significant relationships between Ramped PyrOx and FTIR variables. Low E fractions and carbohydrate content were positively correlated (R2 = 0.51) while low E fractions were negatively correlated with aromatic content (R2 = 0.58). Medium E fractions were found to be positively correlated with aromatics (R2 = 0.69). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial wastewater treatment using UV irradiation in combination with oxidants or catalysts (TiO2) has attracted attention as a promising substitute for conventional methods. Studying the preparation and characterization of TiO2–SnO2 nanocomposites with different ratios, as well as their use in the enhanced photocatalytic degradation of acid red 37 dye in aqueous solution under UV irradiation as a model pollutant, are the goals of the research. The crystalline structures of the prepared nanomaterials were confirmed by XRD and the surface morphology of the samples was studied by TEM. The elemental compositions of the catalysts were confirmed by EDAX. The optical properties of the powder samples were analyzed with UV–Vis spectroscopy and their band gaps were estimated. The photocatalytic degradation was investigated using several advanced oxidation techniques using a batch photoreactor. The TiO2–SnO2 (90:10) nanocomposite showed the best degradation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion is a promising technology for the treatment of food waste (FW) but it requires optimization to improve its performance. This study investigated whether combining the addition of biochar with lipase pretreatment could improve the anaerobic digestion of FW. The results showed that biochar stimulated the release of soluble substances, resulting in an increase in the methane yield of groups with added biochar by 16.24% to 19.36% in comparison with the group without biochar. Lipase pretreatment substantially shortened the fermentation time required to complete the anaerobic digestion, from 15 to 9 days. Lipase pretreatment further improved microbial abundance and promoted the enrichment of functional microbes in the anaerobic digestion of FW mediated by biochar. It also changed the methane production pathway from acetotrophic to hydrogenotrophic, thereby ensuring the stability of the anaerobic digestion system in the presence of a high ammonia nitrogen concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSpatial interpolation is essential for handling sparsity and missing spatial data. Current machine learning-based spatial interpolation methods are subject to the statistical constraints of spatial stratified heterogeneity (SSH), normally involving separate modeling of each stratum and simple weighted averaging to integrate intra-stratum and inter-strata features. However, these models overlook the different contributions of inter-strata features to different locations within a stratum (heterogeneous inter-strata associations, HIA) and the explanation of spatial effects on the interpolation process, leading to suboptimal and unreliable interpolation outcomes. This article proposes a novel explainable spatial interpolation method considering SSH (X-SSHM). Spatial and environmental features are utilized to describe intra-stratum and inter-strata information, which are fed into random forest-based learners to achieve high-level semantic feature mapping. Geographically weighted regression is employed to integrate intra-stratum and inter-strata features to achieve a unified expression of SSH and HIA, obtaining the final interpolation result. Geographically weighted Shapley (GSHAP) is proposed to decompose the marginal contributions of intra-stratum and inter-strata features. Model performance is evaluated on simulated and soil organic matter datasets. X-SSHM outperformed five baselines regarding interpolation accuracy. Moreover, statistical methods validated X-SSHM’s ability to elucidate the mechanisms by which SSH, spatial autocorrelation and HIA affect the model interpolation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cyclopropane unit plays a crucial role in pharmaceutical compound design and organic transformation. In this study, we have developed a novel redox‐neutral photocatalytic cyclopropanation method involving dibromomethane and alkenes. This chemistry enables the synthesis of valuable functional group‐substituted cyclopropanes using readily available starting materials and practical reaction conditions. Additionally, we have demonstrated the versatility of the products as precursors for various cyclopropane derivatives with different substituents. Importantly, this protocol facilitates the synthesis of a key unit found in a specific type of T‐type calcium channel blocker. Furthermore, the proposed reaction mechanism is well‐supported by control experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing advanced electrocatalysts toward the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction is essential for the large‐scale application of fuel cells. Pt‐based catalysts have been known to exhibit optimal ORR performance compared with other metal‐based counterparts. However, their long‐term stability and toxic tolerance still need further improvement. Numerous optimization strategies have been employed in the past few years to enhance the ORR comprehensive performance of Pt‐based electrocatalysts, and tremendous progress has been achieved. Among various optimization strategies, the confinement strategy can not only inhibit the coalescence of catalysts during high‐temperature preparation but also mitigate the aggregation, detachment, and dissolution during the electrochemical process, which motivates this review. After addressing the fundamental ORR mechanism and the superiority of confined strategies, we categorize and review various Pt‐based catalysts confined by different materials, including organic compounds, inorganic oxides and carbon materials. Their synthesis routes are discoursed first, then their structure and performance optimization are highlighted. Subsequently, the principle of confinement strategy to enhance the catalyst ORR performance is also discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives on the materials selection, synthesis design, technology improvement, and practical application of confined Pt‐based catalysts are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of the world's population and its environmental impact has increased the demand for effective water treatment methods. Surface water systems, including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, have suffered contamination, leading to the urgent need for effective contaminant removal. Organic nitrogen compounds and nitrates are of particular concern because they pose risks to health and can cause environmental damage. However, traditional water‐treatment methods often prove ineffective for addressing these issues. For this reason, this research focuses on harnessing the capabilities of nitrifying bacteria to denitrify organic nitrogen compounds in water, exploring various bacterial strains, their functions, and their ability to obtain sources of carbon. The study also investigates innovative approaches such as biofilm systems, mixed cultures, and combined processes, which have shown stronger potential for nitrogen removal. Overall, it provides valuable insights into the use of nitrifying bacteria‐based technologies for water remediation in the face of growing environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work studied the auxin-like activity of liquid and solid hydrochar from aboveground corn biomass prepared using hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). Understanding the action of organic compounds in regulating plant metabolism is important to develop strategies to improve plant growth and production. Bioassays were performed by testing liquid hydrochar concentrations in the range of 0.0557-5570.0 mg carbon L−1; and solid hydrochar (via extracted dissolved organic matter, DOM) in the range of 0.026-2600.0 mg carbon L−1, using seeds of Lactuca sativa. SEM, ATR-FTIR, and Py-GC/MS were applied to assess the effect of HTC on hydrochar production/composition. Liquid hydrochar presented an intense bioactivity, completely inhibiting the germination of testing seeds at higher concentrations. Liquid hydrochar also was considerably more bioactive. Py-GC/MS allowed the identification of the molecules involved in IAA-like effects: carboxylic acids (linear and aromatic) and amino acids. The concentration of more bioactive molecules, rather than their simple presence in the hydrochar fraction, determined the bio-stimulating effect, besides an excellent linear regression between the auxin-like effect and the concentration of active molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the synthesis of various bioactive compounds, including bis‐coumarins, bis‐lawsones, bis‐dimedones, and bis‐indolylmethanes, using a novel catalytic system called "Brønsted acid saponin combined catalyst" (BASapC). The BASapC was formed by combining p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) and saponin in an aqueous medium. The prepared BASapC proved to be effective in facilitating cascade‐type Knoevenagel–Michael addition reactions between various aromatic aldehydes with 4‐hydroxycoumarin, lawsone, dimedone, or indole at 80 °C. In the BASapC system, PTSA acted as a powerful Brønsted acid, activating reactants, whereas saponin served as a natural surfactant, enhancing the solubility of organic compounds in water. This catalytic approach established a straightforwardness and robustness of diversity‐oriented synthesis (DoS), delivering the desired products with good to excellent yields. Additionally, the BASapC exhibited recyclability for at least four cycles without significant loss of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR) for producing high‐value‐added organic compounds is of great research interest due to its potential in alleviating the energy crisis. Herein, a facile NH4Cl‐assisted electrodeposition strategy is reported to fabricate 3D nano‐forest array‐like hollow nanostructures. The hierarchical heterojunction by combining phosphorus doping Co(OH)2 nanosheets with Cu2S nanotube arrays (P‐Co(OH)2@Cu2S NTs/CF) is developed to realize the optimization on GOR. The optimized P‐Co(OH)2@Cu2S NTs/CF catalyst exhibits an exceptional activity with a formate Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 97.40% at a potential of 1.30 V (vs RHE). The experimental results indicate that this unique hollow nano‐forest structure, grown on a conductive support, can expose more active sites and facilitate electron transfer, thereby demonstrating excellent GOR performance. This work provides new opportunities for the design of electrocatalysts of high‐activity and low‐cost hollow heterostructure electrocatalysts for glycerol electrooxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dioxide is a major greenhouse gas and a safe, abundant, easily accessible, and renewable C1 resource that can be chemically converted into high value‐added chemicals, fuels and materials. The preparation of urea, organic carbonates, salicylic acid, etc. from CO2 through non‐reduction conversion has been used in industrial production, while CO2 reduction transformation has become a research hotspot in recent years due to its involvement in energy storage and product diversification. Designing suitable catalysts to achieve efficient and selective conversion of CO2 is crucial due to its thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness. From this perspective, the redistribution of charges within CO2 molecules through the interaction of Lewis acid/base or metal complexes with CO2, or the forced transfer of electrons to CO2 through photo‐ or electrocatalysis, is a commonly used effective way to activate CO2. Based on understanding of the activation/reaction mechanism on a molecular level, we have developed metal complexes, metal salts, inorganic/organic salts, ionic liquids, as well as nitrogen rich and porous materials as efficient catalysts for CO2 reductive conversions. The goal of this personal account is to summarize the catalytic processes of CO2 reductive conversion that have been developed in the past 7 years: 1) For the reductive functionalization of CO2, the major challenge lies in accurately adjusting reaction parameters (such as pressure) to achieve high catalytic efficiency and the product selectivity; 2) For photocatalytic or electrocatalytic reduction of CO2, how to suppress competitive hydrogen evolution reactions and improve catalyst stability are key points that requires continuous attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis paper highlighted in preparation and their properties of Y3+ doped barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanocrystals using inverse miniemulsion. The yttrium (Y) element dopant as the earlier utilized rare earth was used for barium titanate (BaTiO3) modification. The cubic structure of Y3+ doped BaTiO3 nanocrystals were successfully incubated in stable droplets of inverse miniemulsion under the solvent-thermal treatment condition. The suitable Y3+ doping amount in nanocrystals had positively attributed to reduce the value of bandgap (Eg), to prolong the fluorescence lifetime, and to improve the photoelectric properties. The photodegradation mechanism and the schematic diagram of fluorescence emission and radical production were suggested for explanation the relation between photoelectric characteristics and photocatalytic properties. The selected 1.0% Y3+ doped nanocrystal provided an excellent photocatalysis candidate for organic compound photodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Establishing connections between soil health indicators and crop performance will help ensure that tests recommended to farmers relate to outcomes of interest. This study assessed the relationship of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr] yield with three common soil health indicators: soil organic matter (SOM), permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC), and autoclaved citrate extractable nitrogen (ACE‐N). These tests were assessed alongside other factors (soil test phosphorus, soil test potassium [STK], mapped clay, planting date, summer precipitation, and location). Soil samples were collected from 457 producer‐managed fields between 2019 and 2021 in Arkansas, Michigan, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. Planting date and yield were reported by producers, while mapped clay and rainfall were determined using publicly available data. Simple linear regression was used to assess the relationship between soil health indicators and yield: the natural log of SOM and POXC were positively associated with soybean yield (R2 = 0.07, p < 0.001; R2 = 0.03, p < 0.001), while ACE‐N was not (p = 0.872). Multiple linear regression was used to further test the relationship of SOM and POXC with yield, while accounting for other factors that contribute to soybean yield. Models explained 27% of variation in yield, with significant factors including SOM or POXC, soybean planting date, STK, and mapped clay. Based on standardized coefficients, planting date was the most influential factor associated with yield. Broadly, our results indicate that improvements in yield are linked to higher SOM, but management decisions like planting early are critical for achieving high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new analytical technique for detection of organic compounds using inductively coupled plasma-tandem mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) is described. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were introduced into the collision/reaction cell (CRC), instead of through the ICP ion source, and the molecules were ionised through an ion reaction, induced by collision with the primary ions (Ar+) produced in the ICP. The ionisation characteristics of this new approach were investigated by mass spectrometric analysis of eight VOCs (i.e., benzene, toluene, ethyl acetate, methyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, pentyl acetate, pyridine, and 2-methylfuran). These molecules were detected as molecular ions (M+), protonated ions ([M + H]+), or deprotonated ions ([M − H]+), demonstrating that soft ionisation was achieved by the present ionisation protocol using ICP-MS/MS. In addition, a volatile selenium-containing organic compound, dimethyl diselenide (Se2(CH3)2), was also analysed to investigate the feasibility of this ionisation protocol to achieve soft and hard ionisation simultaneously. Several Se-related ions such as Se+, SeH+, Se2+, [SeCH3]+, and [Se2CH3]+, together with [Se2(CH3)2]+, were observed, suggesting that while soft ionisation was possible, ion reaction-induced-fragmentation and hard ionisation also occurred. To demonstrate the analytical capability of the present technique, volatile components released from coffee beans were subjected to the present mass spectrometric analysis. Many ion peaks originating from VOCs were detected from the coffee beans. The data obtained here demonstrated that ICP-MS equipped with a CRC can become an effective tool for analyzing both elements and molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving vegetable yield and optimizing its quality through nutrient management have long been central to plant nutrition and horticultural science. Copper (Cu) is recognized as an essential trace element that promotes plant growth and development. However, the mechanisms by which Cu influences nitrogen (N) metabolism remain largely unknown, with limited studies exploring the interaction between Cu and varying nitrate-to-ammonium (nitrate/ammonium) ratios. In this study, Chinese cabbage was exposed to two Cu concentrations (0 and 0.02 mg L-1) in combination with three nitrate/ammonium ratios (10/90, 50/50, and 90/10) under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that Cu application increased plant biomass, nitrate reductase (NR) and glutamine synthetase (GS) enzyme activities, the expression of NR (NIA) and GS2 (Gln2) genes, and N content in both shoots and roots. Additionally, Cu treatment decreased nitrate and free amino acid contents, as well as the expression of nitrate transporters NRT1.1 and NRT2.1 in roots while increasing these four parameters in shoots. Additionally, these effects were significantly modulated by the nitrate/ammonium ratios. In conclusion, Cu may facilitate nitrate transportation, enhance nitrate reduction, promote ammonium assimilation, and influence the transformation of organic N compounds, highlighting its potential role in improving N metabolism in Chinese cabbage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increasing global interest in natural therapies has led to a rise in the use of herbal medicines for managing various ailments. However, concerns about scientific evaluation have prompted a study aiming to assess the study design of herbal medicine clinical trials. This study aimed to provide a descriptive overview of the study design, characteristics, and methodologies of contemporary herbal medicine clinical trials. Materials and methods: The study reviewed herbal medicine clinical trials published between 2019 and 2022 in five electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Sciences, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Data extraction included study characteristics, intervention details, study design, outcome measures, trial phases, blinding, and other relevant information, with descriptive analyses presented. The term 'herbal medicines' in this study refers to herbs, herbal materials, preparations, and finished products containing active ingredients from plant parts or their combinations. Results: Out of the initially identified 5,918 records, 1,517 articles were eligible for inclusion in the study. The majority of herbal medicine clinical trials were conducted in Asian countries, covering a range of diseases. A randomized, double-blind, parallel design with a 1:1 allocation ratio was frequently employed, along with the common use of placebos across all trial phases. Capsules were the most common dosage form. The median number of human participants varied across trial phases, ranging from 50 in Phase 1 to 240 in Phase 4. Conclusions: The analysis observed that herbal medicine clinical trials employed randomized, double-blind, parallel designs, and the widespread use of placebo. Our observations provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of herbal medicine clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of infection related mortality. Isoniazid is one of the frontline drugs for anti-TB therapy. Hepatotoxicity induced by isoniazid is a major cause of drug-discontinuation which may lead to development of resistant TB or increased mortality. Purpose: To characterize pharmacological properties of plant-based prescription medicine, Livogrit Vital (LVV) against isoniazid-induced liver injury (IILI) using HepG2 cells. Method: Phytometabolite characterization of LVV was performed by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The effects of LVV on cytosafety, IC50 shift, oxidative stress, ER stress, apoptosis, liver injury markers, and accumulation of isoniazid and hydrazine was performed on HepG2 cells induced with isoniazid. Silymarin was used as the positive control. Results: HPLC based phytometabolite characterization of LVV revealed the presence of several anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and hepatoprotective compounds. In isoniazid-induced HepG2 cells, LVV reduced cytotoxicity of isoniazid and shifted its IC50 value. Treatment with LVV reduced ROS generation and lipid peroxidation; enhanced GSH enzyme levels in isoniazid-induced HepG2 cells. As per the mechanistic evaluation, LVV modulated gene expression level of Caspase-3, FGF21, and IRE-1α. LVV treatment also normalized isoniazid-induced elevated Caspase-3 activity and cPARP1 protein levels, indicating its potentials to regulate liver cell apoptosis. Concomitantly, biomarkers of hepatotoxicity, ALT and GGT, also decreased by LVV treatment. Interestingly, LVV treatment reduced intracellular accumulation of isoniazid and its toxic metabolite hydrazine, in isoniazid-stimulated HepG2 cells. Conclusion: Treatment of hepatic cells with the herbo-vitamin medicine, Livogrit Vital, regulates IILI by modulation of oxidative and ER stress, apoptosis, and bioaccumulation of isoniazid and hydrazine. Collectively, Livogrit Vital could well be explored as an adjuvant hepatoprotective agent alongwith anti-TB medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uncertainty regarding the correlation between sea spray aerosol (SSA) formation and sea surface temperature (SST) hinders the accurate estimation of SSA's impact on global climate. Here, we developed a temperature-controlled plunging SSA simulation tank to investigate the impact of SST on SSA formation from two perspectives: SSA particle size distribution and organic enrichment. Our findings show that SSA particle size decreases with decreasing SST, as exhibited by an increase in SSA within Aitken mode and a decrease in SSA within accumulation and coarse modes. SST can significantly enhance organic enrichment in SSA particles, while the multiplicative increases vary from 2 to 10 times depending on the organic matter species and the SSA particle size. Based on our experimental results, it is predicted that SST reduction may lead to a significantly higher contribution of Aitken modal SSA-derived CCN in cold waters (0 °C) than in warm waters (30 °C). Additionally, we incorporate SST for the first time in estimating the global flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) emitted via SSA, yielding a value ranging from 23.45 to 55.78 Tg C yr−1. Compared to previous works, our study reveals the crucial role of SST in influencing both cloud formation and the atmospheric organic burden of SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A recent phase 2A clinical study of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (AL) in patients with advanced-stage intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) demonstrated significant reduction of the risk of tumor progression and mortality with a dose ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 mg. The present study aimed to determine the potential dosage regimen of AL for further phase 2B clinical study. Methods: Plasma-concentration time profiles of total AL bioactivity and clinical efficacy in patients with advanced-stage iCCA were obtained from Phase 2 A study. The population pharmacokinetic (pop-PK) model was developed. The pop-PK model and Monte-Carlo (MC) simulation, in conjunction with maximum concentration of AL (Cmax) as a cut-off criterion, was performed and validated with clinical data. The optimal model was used to simulate further dosage regimens and clinical efficacy of AL. Results: The pop-PK properties of total AL bioactivity were best described by a compartmental model with zero-order absorption (without delay) and linear clearance. None of the investigated covariates improved model accuracy.The developed pop-PK with MC simulations following once-daily dosing of 1,000 mg and 2,000 mg adequately predicted the clinical efficacy (tumor progression and mortality). The once-daily dose of 2,500 mg is recommended for further phase 2B clinical study due to its relatively high efficacy on tumor progression inhibition (73%) and mortality rate reduction (71%) without excessive number of the administered capsules (23 capsules) and low risk of toxicities (<5%). Conclusions: The applied pop-PK model with MC simulation, along with the appropriate cut-off pharmacokinetic parameters, can be used as a potential tool for supporting dosage prediction and selection for clinical studies, and thus reducing the rate of drug development failures. Trial registration: www.thaiclinicaltrials.org, WHO ICTRP search, TCTR20210129007, Registed 29 January 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

31P NMR spectroscopy is a consolidated tool for the characterization of organophosphorus compounds and, more recently, for reaction monitoring. The evolution of organic synthesis, mainly due to the combination of elaborated building blocks with enabling technologies, generated great challenges to understand and to optimize the synthetic methodologies. In this sense, 31P NMR experiments also became a routine technique for reaction monitoring, accessing products and side products yields, chiral recognition, kinetic data, intermediates, as well as basic organic parameters, such as acid‐base and hydrogen‐bonding. This review deals with these aspects demonstrating the essential role of the 31P NMR spectroscopy. The recent publications (the last ten years) will be explored, discussing the experiments of 31P NMR and the strategies accomplished to detect and/or quantify distinct organophosphorus molecules, approaching reaction mechanism, stability, stereochemistry, and the utility as a probe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little evidence of macrofossil charcoal, a wildfire proxy, is recorded from upper Lower to lowermost Upper Devonian rocks. Coals of this age are few, and petrographic data indicate low volumes (<10% mineral-matter free) of charcoal. This paucity of data forms the basis of the “charcoal gap,” which is used to suggest an extended interval of abnormally low atmospheric oxygen (pO2). We reassess the current evidence for this hiatus using Emsian– Eifelian charcoal from the Trout Valley and St. Froid Lake Formations, Maine (northeastern United States), and integrate the microscopic charcoal record of dispersed organic matter. We conclude there is ample evidence of fire in the Middle Devonian. This interval is not innately of low pO2. Rather, it is one in which under-interpretation of available data has led to a perceived paucity of charcoal. This reconciliation indicates the Phanerozoic record of wildfire was substantially uninterrupted. Hence, we propose that pO2 achieved levels >16% and remained at such levels from the Silurian through the floral and faunal colonization of land and, from our current estimates, stayed as such until the present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riverine export of carbon (C) is an important part of the global C cycle; however, most riverine C budgets focus on individual forms of C and fail to comprehensively measure both organic and inorganic C species in concert. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted high frequency sampling of multiple C forms, including dissolved organic C (DOC), inorganic carbon (as alkalinity), particulate organic C (POC), coarse particulate organic C (CPOC), and invertebrate biomass C across the main run-off season in a predominantly rain-fed watershed in Southeast Alaska. Streamwater concentrations were used to model daily watershed C export from May through October. Concentration and modeled yield data indicated that DOC was the primary form of riverine C export (8708 kg C/km2), except during low flow periods when alkalinity (3125 kg C/km2) was the dominant form of C export. Relative to DOC and alkalinity, export of particulate organic C (POC: 992 kg C/km2; CPOC: 313 kg C/km2) and invertebrates (40 kg C/km2) was small, but these forms of organic matter could disproportionately impact downstream food webs because of their higher quality, assessed via C to nitrogen ratios. These seasonal and flow driven changes to C form and export likely provide subsidies to downstream and nearshore ecosystems such that predicted shifts in regional hydroclimate could substantially impact C transfer and incorporation into aquatic food webs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earth is expected to have acquired a reduced proto-atmosphere enriched in H2 and CH4 through the accretion of building blocks that contain metallic Fe and/or the gravitational trapping of surrounding nebula gas. Such an early, wet, reduced atmosphere that covers a proto-ocean would then ultimately evolve toward oxidized chemical compositions through photochemical processes that involve reactions with H2O-derived oxidant radicals and the selective escape of hydrogen to space. During this time, atmospheric CH4 could be photochemically reprocessed to generate not only C-bearing oxides but also organics. However, the branching ratio between organic matter formation and oxidation remains unknown despite its significance on the abiotic chemical evolution of early Earth. Here, we show via numerical analyses that UV absorptions by gaseous hydrocarbons such as C2H2 and C3H4 significantly suppress H2O photolysis and subsequent CH4 oxidation during the photochemical evolution of a wet proto-atmosphere enriched in H2 and CH4. As a result, nearly half of the initial CH4 converted to heavier organics along with the deposition of prebiotically essential molecules such as HCN and H2CO on the surface of a primordial ocean for a geological timescale order of 10–100 Myr. Our results suggest that the accumulation of organics and prebiotically important molecules in the proto-ocean could produce a soup enriched in various organics, which might have eventually led to the emergence of living organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Controversy exists concerning the blood glucose-lowering activity of whole grains. • Whole grains elicit high inter-individual variability in blood glucose tolerance. • Gut microbiota and host metabolism likely influence individuals' responses to whole grains. • Machine learning of multi-omics analyses will help to identify whole grain benefits. • Our planned trial could establish a precision nutrition framework for recommendations. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) demonstrate that whole wheat consumption improves glycemia. However, substantial inter-individual variation is often observed, highlighting that dietary whole grain recommendations may not support the health of all persons. The objective of this report is to describe the rationale and design of a planned RCT aimed at establishing the gut microbiota and metabolome signatures that predict whole wheat-mediated improvements in glucose tolerance in adults with prediabetes. It is hypothesized that a controlled diet containing wheat bread (WHEAT; 160 g/day) compared with refined bread (WHITE) will improve glucose tolerance in a gut microbiota-mediated manner. Biospecimens will be collected before and after each 2-week study arm. Testing for oral glucose tolerance and gastrointestinal permeability will be performed post-intervention. Assessments will include oral glucose tolerance (primary outcome) and secondary outcomes including gut microbiota, targeted and untargeted metabolomics of fecal and plasma samples, intestinal and host inflammatory responses, and intestinal permeability. WHEAT is predicted to alleviate glucose intolerance by shifting microbiota composition to increase short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria while reducing populations implicated in intestinal inflammation, barrier dysfunction, and systemic endotoxemia. Further, benefits from WHEAT are anticipated to correlate with gut-level and systemic metabolomic responses that can help to explain the expected inter-individual variability in glucose tolerance. Thus, knowledge gained from integrating multi-omic responses associating with glucose tolerance could help to establish a precision nutrition-based framework that can alleviate cardiometabolic risk. This framework could inform novel dietary whole grain recommendations by enhancing our understanding of inter-individual responsiveness to whole grain consumption. This report describes the rationale and design of a planned randomized, controlled trial examining the benefits of WHEAT on glucose tolerance in adults with prediabetes. It is hypothesized that WHEAT will improve glucose tolerance in a gut-mediated manner. Machine learning approaches will identify the metagenomic and metabolomic signatures predicting inter-individual responses to WHEAT. Outcomes are expected to inform a precision nutrition framework for whole wheat to alleviate prediabetes. Abbreviation: WHEAT, whole wheat bread. Created in BioRender. Bruno, R. (2024) BioRender.com/h45v815 [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of light energy to drive asymmetric organic transformations to produce high-value-added organic compounds is attracting increasing interest as a sustainable strategy for solving environmental problems and addressing the energy crisis. Chiral covalent organic frameworks (COFs), as porous crystalline chiral materials, have become an important platform on which to explore new chiral photocatalytic materials due to their precise tunability, chiral structure, and function. This review highlights recent research progress on chiral COFs and their crystalline composites, evaluating their application as catalysts in asymmetric photocatalytic organic transformations in terms of their structure. Finally, the limitations and challenges of chiral COFs in asymmetric photocatalysis are discussed, with future opportunities for research being identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chloride ions readily react with organic matter and other ions, resulting in the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) that exhibit heightened levels of toxicity, carcinogenicity, and mutagenicity. This study creatively employed waste walnut shells as self-templates and low-cost magnesium bicarbonate as a rigid template to successfully synthesize multifunctional porous carbon derived from walnut shells. Employing a series of characterization techniques, it was ascertained that the porous carbon material (WSC/Mg) synthesized via the dual-template method exhibited a distinct layered microscopic surface structure, with a predominance of C and O elements on the surface. The material displayed a high degree of graphitization, significant specific surface area, and abundant oxygen-containing surface functional groups. The incorporation of magnesium bicarbonate as a hard template improved the structure of the walnut shell porous carbon, resulting in a significant enhancement in mass transfer efficiency for the target product on the adsorbent and a substantial improvement in removal efficiency. In comparison with walnut shell-derived carbon using only self-templating, WSC/Mg exhibited a 17.26-fold increase in adsorption capacity for 2,4-dichlorophenol. Furthermore, even after four adsorption–desorption cycles, WSC/Mg-12 maintained an adsorption efficiency above 90%. It is remarkable that WSC/Mg-12 demonstrated exceptional resistance to interference from natural organic matter and pH variations. Moreover, the adsorbed saturated WSC/Mg-12 effectively treated real coke wastewater, resulting in an 80% color removal rate, 20% COD removal rate, and 15% ammonia nitrogen removal rate. In conclusion, this study presents an innovative approach for cost-effective and versatile porous carbon materials with extensive applications in water environment purification and biomass utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oral cancer represents a main public health issue around the world due to the mortality rates associated with it, the lack of effective and potent drugs, the multitude of side effects and the expensive treatments. Until now, no natural alternative therapeutic methods have been found beneficial enough to replace conventional drugs. Thus, bioactive compounds with anticancer properties can represent a necessary alternative through a targeted molecular approach to the multiple pathways involved in carcinogenesis. This review explores how the therapeutic potential of natural compounds can be harnessed and how they can be used as adjuvant therapies for oral cancer treatment. The collected results focused only on plant extracts and biologically active metabolites known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor potential, which can be described as future chemopreventive agents against oral cancer, alone or in therapeutic combinations. Background: With a significant increase in both incidence and mortality, oral cancer—particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)—is one of the main causes of death in developing countries. Even though there is evidence of advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the overall survival rate for patients with OSCC has improved, but by a small percentage. This may be due, on the one hand, to the fact that the disease is diagnosed when it is at a too-advanced stage, when metastases are already present. Methods: This review explores the therapeutic potential of natural herbal products and their use as adjuvant therapies in the treatment of oral cancer from online sources in databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus, Elsevier). Results: Even if classic therapies are known to be effective, they often produce many serious side effects and can create resistance. Certain natural plant compounds may offer a complementary approach by inducing apoptosis, suppressing tumor growth, and improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The integration of these compounds with conventional treatments to obtain remarkable synergistic effects represents a major point of interest to many authors. This review highlights the study of molecular mechanisms and their efficiency in in vitro and in vivo models, as well as the strategic ways in which drugs can be administered to optimize their use in real contexts. Conclusions: This review may have a significant impact on the oncology community, creating new inspirations for the development of more effective, safer cancer therapies with less toxic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of water extracts from litter horizons of podzolic soils under a native bilberry–green moss spruce forest (TP-1) and under secondary mixed (birch–spruce) forests of 12 (TP-2) and 43 (TP-3) years in age developing on cutting areas in the middle taiga subzone of the Komi Republic was studied using high-temperature catalytic oxidation (TOC-VCPH analyzer), gas chromatography, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Forest litters from test plots TP-1 and TP-2 were similar in composition and consisted of the needle litter and products of moss destruction. They had close pH values of water extracts and close total nitrogen (Ntot) and water-soluble carbon (Cws) contents. Forest litter on TP-3 consisted of the leaf litter of birch and aspen at different stages of decomposition, which was is reflected in higher contents of total and water-soluble carbon and total nitrogen and a decrease in acidity. The set of identified water-soluble carbon compounds was represented by 25 compounds: 12 carboxylic acids, 9 carbohydrates, and 4 alcohols with the major contribution of carbohydrates (hexoses). In the native spruce forest (TP-1), a tendency for a decrease in the proportion of acids and alcohols and an increase in the proportion of sugars from the upper (O1) to the lower (O3) part of the litter was observed. In forest litters of former cutting areas (TP-2, TP-3), an increase in the proportion of alcohols (especially in the O2 subhorizon) and a decrease in the proportion of sugars were noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorometric determination of different biologically, industrially, and environmentally important analytes is a powerful technique because this technique has excellent selectivity, high sensitivity, rapid photoluminescence response, low cost, applicability to bioimaging, and low detection limit. Fluorescence imaging is a powerful technique for screening different analytes in the living system. Heterocyclic organic compounds have been extensively used as a fluorescence chemosensor for the determination of different biologically important cations like Co2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Ag+, Ni2+, Cr3+, Al3+, Pd2+, Fe3+ Pt2+, Mn2+, Sn2+, Pd2+, Au3+, Pd2+, Cd2+, Pb2+ and other ions in biological and environmental systems. These compounds also showed significant biological applications such as anti-cancer, anti-ulcerogenic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti neuropathic, antihistaminic, antihypertensive, analgesic, antitubercular, antioxidant, antimalarial, antiparasitic, antiglycation, antiviral anti-obesity, and antibacterial potency. In this review, we summarize the heterocyclic organic compounds based on fluorescent chemosensors and their applications in bioimaging studies for the recognition of different biologically important metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With combined efforts from the mineral liberation analyzer (MLA), elementary analysis and sulfur speciation analysis, this study expands upon coal fragmentation using high voltage pulse (HVP) by incorporating an understanding about deportment of specific minerals due to density behavior. Mineral characteristics showed that the minerlisation of middlings sample was predominantly banded, and pyrite was most of all associated with the mineral matter, to a lesser extent, with the organic matter. In addition, it was found that the pyritic sulfur attained a higher propensity for the heavy densities than the total sulfur, and the results were supported by speciation analysis. For Test 3, the total sulfur (0.86%) predominantly arose from organic sulfur due to the condensation of organic matter in the −1.3RD fraction, whereby the pyritic sulfur merely accounted for 25.80% of the total sulfur. It is concluded that the metalliferous grain-induced breakdown resulted in pulse selectivity between the middling particles. The improvement in coal middlings reprocessability (deashing and desulfuration) predominantly arose from the generation of cracks/microcracks. The results of this study have shown that the high voltage pulse (HVP) technique holds considerable promise for coal middlings reprocessing in comparison with the mechanical crushing method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoline is a N-containing heterocyclic organic compounds with significant biological importance in pharmaceuticals field as well as natural products. They exhibit excellent pharmacological activities. To synthesize quinoline and their derivatives several synthetic methods have reported, such as conventional method, ultrasonic method, microwave (MW) irradiation method, with or without catalytic reaction, which have various pharmacological and biological activities, such as antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, anti-HIV, antimalarial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activity. The objective of this review is to compile various synthetic methods were used for the formation of the Quinoline derivatives and their biological importance, such as antibacterial, anticancer, anti-microbial, antimalarial, antileishmanial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory during 2010–2023, which will help the researchers how are working in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their widespread use, research is needed to evaluate the weight loss and related health/wellness outcomes of herbal plants. Preliminary research found that the fruit of Dichrostachys glomerata is safe and has potential weight loss effects. This study aimed to examine the effect of a standardized powder of D. glomerata fruit pods (DYG-400®) on weight, food cravings, mood, and health-related quality of life of overweight and mildly obese adults. In this CONSORT-compliant double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 56 adults (Mean [M] age = 44.50, M [body mass index] BMI = 31.66) were randomized to either the D. glomerata Group (DG; 300 mg/d) or Placebo Group (PG; rice protein, 300 mg/d) for 60 days. Participants weight was assessed along with self-report assessments of the Food Cravings Questionnaire, CDC Health-related Quality of Life, Perceived Stress Scale, Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Profile of Mood States at Baseline, Day 30, and Day 60. The data were collected from March 2023 to June 2023 and stored electronically, and analyzed using general linear models with repeated measures. DG lost more weight at Day 60 compared to PG, p =.05 (4.11 vs. 2.19 lbs). DG had reduced food cravings from Baseline to Day 30 and Day 60 compared to PG, p <.001. Perceived stress, p <.001, and mood, p =.017, improved from Baseline to Day 60 for DG compared to PG. Anxiety decreased from Baseline to Day 60 for DG and from Baseline to Day 30 for PG, p <.001. Health-related Quality of Life improved for DG compared to PG, p <.001. D. glomerata (DYG-400®) may be an effective herbal intervention to promote weight loss and health. Extended clinical trials across diverse populations and settings are needed. Clinical trial registry number and website: ISRCTN10099861, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN10099861. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spergularia rubra (L.) J. Presl & C. Presl has a mycorrhizal resistance that leads to increased uranium uptake. The results show that 35% of the 238U is retained in the carbonate fraction and 59% in the residual or non-reactive fraction. 226Ra shows a different pattern with an average association of 19% in the organic matter fraction, 10% in the carbonate compounds and the remaining 71% in the residual fraction. The relationships between the activity concentrations of 238U and 226Ra in the soil fractions and in Spergularia were found to be statistically representative of the carbonate and organic matter fractions, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulking agent and microbial agent are widely used to improving the aerobic composting condition. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of composite microbial agent which is consisted of Azotobacter salinestris, Aspergillus oryzae, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus cereus and Trichoderma viride with different bulking agents (straw or sawdust) on organic matter degradation, enzyme activities, and functional genes associated with carbon and nitrogen cycling during aerobic composting of food waste. The results demonstrated that the inoculation of composite microbial agent significantly improved the degradation of starch, protein, cellulose, and grease, along with boosting microbial enzyme activity and the abundance of carbon degradation genes. Furthermore, the degradation of organic matter (OM), protein, cellulose, and grease were higher in the straw bulked composting with composite microbial agent treatment (B). Meanwhile, B also exhibited a higher abundance of cdh and rbcL genes compared to the other treatments. Pearson regression analysis identified temperature as the primary factor controlling organic matter degradation, while cdh and cex genes exhibited strong associations with cellulose degradation during food waste composting. These findings suggest that incorporating straw as bulking agent with composite microbial agent during food waste composting can effectively enhance organic matter degradation. [Display omitted] • Composite microbial agent significantly enhanced organic matter degradation. • Composite microbial agent stimulated the secrete of microbial enzyme. • Straw conditioned composting degrade organic matter more effectively than sawdust. • Temperature is the key factor of organic matter degradation during composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ε-Caprolactam (CPL) is an important organic chemical raw material used as a monomer in the production of nylon 6. The traditional production process employs fuming sulfuric acid as a catalyst, leading to serious equipment corrosion and environmental pollution. While vapor-phase Beckman rearrangement reaction offers a solution to these issues. Unfortunately, the catalyst used is susceptible to carbon deposition and deactivation during the vapor-phase Beckman rearrangement process. Herein, a kind of mixed acid-modified hollow TS-1 zeolite was prepared in this study. It is a hollow structure of TS-1 zeolite formed by secondary crystallization, which is conducive to the shortening of the reaction path and the improvement of the anti-carbon accumulation performance. Further investigation revealed that modification of the hollow TS-1 zeolite with mixed acids facilitates the removal of non-skeletal titanium, and reduces the amount of Lewis acid in the catalyst, thereby improving its catalytic performance. Under optimal conditions, the cyclohexanone oxime (CHO) conversion rate reached 100%, with a caprolactam selectivity exceeding 98%. Notably, the catalytic activity of the catalyst remained stable after 500 h of continuous operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic compounds of various classes have been identified as major pollutants commonly detected in several environmental freshwaters. As a potential solution, electrospun mat-like nanofibers comprising polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers and kaolin clay composite were synthesized for the degradation of methylene blue dye in wastewater using piezocatalytic technique. The kaolin/PVDF composites were characterized with SEM, XRD, FTIR, Chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The poling of the piezoelectric charges of the electrospun mat-like nanofibers, enhanced by the presence of the crystalline nature of the kaolin clay occasioned the generation of reactive species upon exposure to ultrasonic vibration. Moreover, ultrasound waves in the system prevented passivation of the mat's active surface during piezocatalysis through continuous cleaning action. A degradation efficiency of 100% was obtained from the degradation of methylene blue dye using the synthesized kaolin/PVDF composites during piezocatalysis. This result positions the nanofiber as an effective catalyst in wastewater treatment applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new prenylated C6–C3 compounds (1–3), together with two known prenylated C6–C3 compounds (4–5) and one known C6–C3 derivative (6), were isolated from the roots of Illicium brevistylum A. C. Smith. The structures of 1–3 were elucidated by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, CD experiments and ECD calculations. The structure of illibrefunone A (1) was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. All compounds were evaluated in terms of their anti-inflammatory potential on nitric oxide (NO) generation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated murine RAW264.7 macrophages and murine BV2 microglial cells, antiviral activity against Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and influenza virus A/Hanfang/359/95 (H3N2). Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited potent inhibitory effects on the production of NO in RAW 264.7 cells with IC50 values of 20.57 and 12.87 μM respectively, which were greater than those of dexamethasone (positive control). Compounds 1 and 4–6 exhibited weak activity against Coxsackievirus B3, with IC50 values ranging from 25.87 to 33.33 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was to estimate the associations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exposure with the prevalence of total and specific cardiovascular disease (CVD) among the general adult population. This cross-sectional study analyzed 15 urinary VOC metabolites in the general population using the 2011–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 5,213). The weighted study population with 47.0 years median age, was primarily female (51.2%). The prevalence of total CVD in the overall population was 7.9%. The single-exposure analyzes of AAMA, ATCA, CEMA, CYMA, DHBMA, 3HPMA, and 3MHA +4MHA were significantly associated with increased prevalence of total CVD. Qgcomp regression consistently showed that urinary VOCs-mixed exposure was positively correlated with the prevalence of total and specific CVDs (chronic heart failure, angina, and stroke), and highlighted each VOCs metabolite weights and direction. The similar results were observed for the WQS regression using mixed analysis methods. In conclusion, exposure to VOCs increases CVD prevalence and advances the identification of risk factors for CVD for environmental study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferrocene‐based derivatives play significant roles in biomedicine and catalytic reactions. This article demonstrates the C–O/N/S formation reactions of α‐ferrocenyl alcohols under mild conditions using the organic compound NTBC (2,2′,2″‐(nitrilotris (methylene))tris(1H‐benzo[d]imidazole‐5‐carboxylic acid)) as the catalyst. The catalyst is utilized in amounts of 5 mol% or less, and the majority of substrates yield derivatized products in good to excellent yields. This metal‐free catalytic method shows promising applications in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates for its no metal pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epimedium is a Chinese herb known as "yin and yang fire," first mentioned in the Compendium of Materia Medica. Many of the proprietary Chinese medicines used in clinical practice contain Epimedium as an ingredient, and its main active constituents include icariin, icaritin, and icariside II, among others. In addition to its traditional use in treating fatigue and sexual problems, modern research has confirmed that the main bioactive compounds in Epimedium have pharmacological effects such as antidepressant, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as inhibiting bone destruction, promoting bone growth, improving immune regulation and protecting the cardio-cerebral vascular system. With the continuous development of extraction and purification techniques, the development and use of bioactive compounds in Epimedium have significantly progressed, and the anticancer effect has received widespread attention. Since natural herbs have few side effects on the human body and do not easily develop drug resistance, they have long been the direction of research in cancer treatment. This review summarizes the latest research on the anticancer effects of Epimedium and its extracts, describes the bioactive compounds, pharmacological efficacy, and antitumor mechanism of Epimedium, and gives a new view on the administration and development of Epimedium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]