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Numerous clinical tests are described for the diagnosis of chronic lateral collateral ligament (LCL) insufficiency of the elbow; however, none of these tests have been adequately assessed for sensitivity, with at most 8 patients included in previous studies. Furthermore, no test has had specificity assessed. The posterolateral rotatory drawer (PLRD) test is thought to have improved diagnostic accuracy over other tests in the awake patient. The aim of this study is to formally assess this test using reference standards in a large cohort of patients. A total of 106 eligible patients were identified for inclusion from a single-surgeon database of operative procedures. Examination under anesthetic (EUA) and arthroscopy were chosen as the reference standards to compare the PLRD test against. Only patients with a clearly documented PLRD test finding performed preoperatively in the clinic, and a clearly documented EUA and/or arthroscopic findings from surgery were included. A total of 102 patients underwent EUA, 74 of whom also underwent arthroscopy. Twenty-eight patients had EUA, and then an open procedure without arthroscopy. Four patients had arthroscopy without a clearly documented EUA. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Thirty-seven patients had a positive PLRD test, and 69 had a negative test. Compared to the reference standard of EUA (n = 102), the PLRD test had a sensitivity of 97.3% (85.8%-99.9%) and a specificity of 98.5% (91.7%-100%) (PPV = 0.973, NPV = 0.985). Compared to the reference standard of arthroscopy (n = 78), the PLRD test had a sensitivity of 87.5% (61.7%-98.5%) and a specificity of 98.4% (91.3%-100%) (PPV = 0.933, NPV = 0.968). Compared to either reference standard (n = 106), the PLRD test has a sensitivity of 94.7% (82.3%-99.4%) and a specificity of 98.5% (92.1%-100%) (PPV = 0.973, NPV = 0.971). The PLRD test demonstrated an overall sensitivity of 94.7% and specificity of 98.5% with high positive and negative predictive values. This test is recommended as the primary diagnostic tool for LCL insufficiency in the awake patient and should be widely incorporated into surgical training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odontogenic keratocysts (OKC) has a high potential for recurrence. Resection is currently the only fool-proof method to ensure that recurrence does not occur; however, it drastically affects the patient's function and aesthetics. Application of modified Carnoy's solution (MCS) as an adjunct to reduce the recurrence rate is currently in vogue. 5- Flurouracil (5-FU) is an anti-metabolite that has been used in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma and is relatively safer than MCS. The present study aims to compare the effectiveness of 5-UC and MCS in reducing the recurrence rate in OKC.. A total of 42 OKCs were enucleated followed by application of MCS (control group, n = 21) or 5-FU dressing (study group, n = 21) following enucleation. Pain, swelling, temporary and permanent paresthesia paresthesia, bone sequestrum formation, osteomyelitis and recurrence in both groups were evaluated at periodic intervals up to 12 months post-surgery. There was no significant difference in terms of pain, or swelling in both groups. Permanent paresthesia and recurrence rates were higher in patients treated with MC but the difference was not statistically significant. 5-FU is an easy-to-use, feasible, biocompatible and cost-effective alternative for MCS in the management of OKCs. Treatment with 5-FU, therefore, reduces the risk of recurrence and also the post-surgical morbidity associated with other treatment procedures. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, there is significant apprehension surrounding food safety and security. Addressing the formidable challenge of ensuring a sustainable provision of nutrient-dense and safe food is imperative. Nanotechnology emerges as a promising avenue, offering substantial opportunities to revolutionize food safety practices and elevate agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner. By leveraging nanomaterials and advanced techniques, nanotechnology provides precision in detecting and mitigating contaminants in the food supply chain. Moreover, it holds the potential to extend the shelf life of perishable goods, contributing to reduced food waste and a more sustainable use of resources. An overview of how nanotechnology can be applied to precision farming, food packaging, and the detection of contaminants is presented. At the same time, the role of nanotechnology is explored to address agricultural challenges, water management, adsorption of harmful substances, delivery of nutrients, and detection of contaminants. The application of nanotechnology in this context aims to tackle health risks and costs associated with its extensive industrial use. Additionally, the importance of applying nanotechnology to food safety and security is emphasized. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• microSilicon, microDiamond, and RAZOR Nano field output factors for Gamma Knife®. • Field output correction factors are published for each detector. • 3D printed inserts used with the Solid Water® Phantom for measurements. • Method presented to identify and correct for effective point of measurement. • Assessed detectors are suitable for field output factor measurements. The Leksell Gamma Knife® Perfexion™ and Icon™ have a unique geometry, containing 192 60Co sources with collimation for field sizes of 4 mm, 8 mm, and 16 mm. 4 mm and 8 mm collimated fields lack lateral charged particle equilibrium, so accurate field output factors are essential. This study performs field output factor measurements for the microDiamond, microSilicon, and RAZOR™ Nano detectors. 3D printed inserts for the spherical Solid Water® Phantom were fabricated for microDiamond detector, the microSilicon unshielded diode and the RAZOR™ Nano micro-ionisation chamber. Detectors were moved iteratively to identify the peak detector signal for each collimator, representing the effective point of measurement of the chamber. In addition, field output correction factors were calculated for each detector relative to vendor supplied Monte Carlo simulated field output factors and field output factors measured with a W2 scintillator. All field output factors where within 1.1 % for the 4 mm collimator and within 2.3 % for the 8 mm collimator. The 3D printed phantom inserts were suitable for routine measurements if the user identifies the effective point of measurement, and ensures a reproducible setup by marking the rotational alignment of the cylindrical print. Measurements with the microDiamond and microSilicon can be performed faster compared to the RAZOR™ Nano due to differences in the signal to noise ratio. All detectors are suitable for field output factor measurements for the Leksell Gamma Knife® Perfexion™ and Icon™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This review focused on the anti-diabetic activity of major functional foods and herbs. • The underlying anti-diabetic mechanism are well elaborated. • Functional food/herbs could improve glycemic control and abolish DM-related complications. Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its related complications are the serious public health concern globally. This is the first review highlight on major functional foods and herbs with anti-diabetic activity particularly focus on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with special reference to clinical trials and their proposed anti-diabetic mechanisms. This contribution summarizes the current prevalence of DM, etiology and pathophysiology, complications related to DM, current conventional treatment regimen for T2DM as well as complimentary therapy for anti-DM activity (functional foods/herbs-nutraceuticals). Based on the literature survey, authors conclude that co-intervention of functional food/herbs (adjuvant therapy) with a conventional hypoglycemic drug with modified lifestyle pattern could significantly improve glycemic control and abolish DM associated complications. Nevertheless, further clinical trials are required to confirm the safety and efficacy of different functional food/herbs with the conventional hypoglycemic drug (holistic) especially the dosage/duration/mode of administration are crucial to avoid adverse effect and to improve glycemic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption of polymers on smooth or atomistically flat substrates has been a topic of study for decades, and such systems are well-characterized. However, there is little knowledge of the complex interfaces created by adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces: these are fundamental to numerous scientific and industrial systems, including organic optoelectronics, polymer–matrix composites, protein attachment, biomimetics, lubrication, and catalysis. Focusing on physical inhomogeneities, this paper presents an overview of the field of polymer adsorption on rough surfaces, and seeks to elucidate some of the relevant molecular mechanisms. Monte Carlo simulations are employed to study freely rotating chains adjacent to self-affine substrates, exploring the influence of surface fractal dimension and amplitude. The adsorbed polymers are characterized by density profiles and chain topologies evaluated parallel and perpendicular to the nominal surface. Our results reveal chain attachment and film structure can be controlled solely by manipulating entropic factors such as surface physical heterogeneities and adsorbate molecular weight distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ixeris chinensis (Thunb.) Nakai (Taiwan) is a traditional herbal medicine used for treating various ailments, such as stomach ache, common cold and diarrhoea. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesive effect of I. chinensis on Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori )-induced gastric adenocarcinoma in an AGS cell model. Three types of I. chinensis extract were used: boiling water extract (BWE), ethanol extract (EE) and chloroform extract (CE) to check anti- H. pylori activity on the AGS cell line. Phytochemical and HPLC analysis were performed. In vitro antioxidant activity, including TEAC, DPPH and H 2 O 2 scavenging abilities, was evaluated. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined, and an MTT assay determined survival rate. Furthermore, interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured. The BWE showed better antioxidative activity than the EE and CE. The lag time of human low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation was significantly increased by BWE, EE and CE. However, CE showed maximum antibacterial (MIC, MBC), anti-adhesive (urease test) and anti-inflammatory (IL-8, NO, TNF-α) activities. Based on the above findings, I. chinensis extract (BWE and CE) clearly shows antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesive effects on H. pylori -induced gastric adenocarcinoma in the AGS cell model. Hence, I. chinensis might be used to combat against H. pylori- induced gastric cancer with standard chemotherapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Air leakage in buildings can cause health and comfort concerns for occupants and can contribute to mold growth on building materials, or in extreme conditions, rot of building materials. Unwanted air leakage through the building envelope also contributes to approximately 4 quadrillion Btu (1172 TWh) of energy consumption per year in the building sector in the United States. Locating and sealing leakage sites can improve the energy efficiency, comfort, air quality, and moisture durability of the building stock. Typical methods of finding leakage sites, such as infrared imaging and smoke tracing, rely on concurrent blower door operation, which can also measure the total leakage rate of the building. Smoke tracing can be disruptive to occupants, and infrared imaging and smoke tracing cannot measure the contribution of individual leaks to prioritize sealing efforts. In this work, an optical fluid flow imaging technique, reference-free natural background–oriented schlieren imaging, was adapted to visualize air exfiltration. This is the first step in developing a method to noninvasively locate and measure exfiltration or infiltration sites so that sealing efforts can be prioritized. Experimental results of this technique are presented, demonstrating the method's applicability to visualizing exfiltration through three common building claddings in an outdoor environment. Key variables impacting the performance of this technique when applied to building leakage are also discussed. • Sealing building leakage can reduce energy consumption and carbon emission. • Background oriented schlieren photography can visualize transparent fluids. • An indoor-to-outdoor temperature difference is needed to visualize exfiltration. • A wall cladding of sufficient contrast is required for synthetic schlieren. • Successful exfiltration visualization is shown through brick and concrete walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the association of COVID-19 vaccines and non-COVID-19 vaccines with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST).Materials and Method: We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 771,805 vaccination events across 266,094 patients in the Mayo Clinic Health System between 01/01/2017 and 03/15/2021. The primary outcome was a positive diagnosis of CVST, identified either by the presence of a corresponding ICD code or by an NLP algorithm which detected positive diagnosis of CVST within free-text clinical notes. For each vaccine we calculated the relative risk by dividing the incidence of CVST in the 30 days following vaccination to that in the 30 days preceding vaccination.Results: We identified vaccination events for all FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines including Pfizer-BioNTech (n = 94,818 doses), Moderna (n = 36,350 doses) and Johnson & Johnson - J&J (n = 1,745 doses). We also identified vaccinations events for 10 common FDA-approved non-COVID-19 vaccines (n = 771,805 doses). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence rate of CVST in 30-days before and after vaccination for any vaccine in this population. We further found the baseline CVST incidence in the study population between 2017 and 2021 to be 45 to 98 per million patient years.Conclusions: This real-world evidence-based study finds that CVST is rare and is not significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccination in our patient cohort. Limitations include the rarity of CVST in our dataset, a relatively small number of J&J COVID-19 vaccination events, and the use of a population drawn from recipients of a SARS-CoV-2 PCR test in a single health system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the age-related disease characterized by chronic and progressive degeneration of photoreceptors. The retinoprotective effect of lutein complex (LC) derived from marigold (lutein) and wolfberry (zeaxanthin) was assessed in subjects with early stage AMD (n = 56). Each subject was instructed to take 60 mL of LC beverage for 5 months. Supplementation with LC substantially escalated the concentrations of serum lutein and zeaxanthin as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the levels of total antioxidative capacity, ocular comfort index (OCI) and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) as compared to baseline. Oxidative stress index (total free radicals and TBARS), inflammatory markers, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and interocular pressure (IOP) were concomitantly lowered in subjects when treated with LC for 5 months. Thus, long-term consumption of LC may suppress the oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant status and thereby preclude the incidence of AMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proliferation of signal processing community, the dynamic behavior and the singularity detection are key steps, because dynamics and singularities carry most of signal information. Wavelet zoom is very good at localization of singularities. The Lipschitz Exponent (LE) is the most popular measure of the singularity characteristics of a signal. The singularity, by mean of an LE of a function, is measured by taking a slope of a log-log plot of scale s versus wavelet transform modulus maxima (WTMM). In this paper, we measured the singularity using WTMM, Inter Scale Wavelet Maximum (ISWM) and Wavelet Leaders (WL) by adding white Gaussian noises to the human EEG signal. The statistical performances are assessed (Mean, Standard Deviation (SD), Skewness, SD/Mean, Number of singular points (NSP)) and compared by means of non-parametric hypothesis test (Mann--Whitney U-test). Highly significant differences have been found between WTMM, ISWM and WL using Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve. WL method provides good performance of singularity measure when the more prominent noise influenced the EEG signal. The result of experiments demonstrated that a Wavelet leader is more precise and robust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Green microalga, Dunaliella, isolated from the saltpan of Tamil Nadu, India, was identified both morphologically and genetically via 18S rDNA specific primers. Amplified 18S rDNA of Dunaliella salina were sequenced and submitted in the GenBank, NCBI. The natural β-carotene from optimally grown cells was purified by column chromatography, which was confirmed by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) with the Retardation factor value of 0.92. It was also quantified by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with a quantity of 3mg/mL of culture. The extracted β-carotene was assessed for its anticancer property in the human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) which showed the effective apoptosis of 32% than the synthetic β-carotene which is 27% in flow cytometry analysis. Cytochrome c and caspase assay were also revealed that algal β-carotene mediated cell death was more compared to standard β-carotene. The Indian isolate, D. salina EU5891199 that has a potential effect on PC-3 cells has been documented in the present study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This work deals with the prediction of mechanical properties of hot rolled steel slab in the hot rolling mill to avoid the manual working of preparing tension test samples in the mechanical testing lab. The time consumption for testing is avoided and the cost of product is decreased. A model for predicting mechanical properties of low carbon steel has been developed and Feed Forward Back Propagation (FFBP) as one type of algorithm of the Artificial Neural Network has been applied to the prediction system. Yield strength (YS), Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and Elongation(EL) are the basic mechanical properties of low carbon steel are predicted as a function of thermo-mechanical process parameters. These properties mainly depend on the input parameters such as Dispatch Temperature (DISTEMP), Transfer-Bar/Rolling Temperature (TBART), Finishing Temperature (FINT), Coiling Temperature (COILT) and Carbon Equivalent (CEQ). The FFBP is a supervised system that requires a lot of input and output data pairs for training process. The data are acquired from Indian Public Sector Steel Company and preprocessed before training. Performance of the model is evaluated by the Normalized Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE) and the Coefficient of Correlation (R). The NRMSE and the R values of both training and validation parts show excellent values. Therefore, the model using the FFBP algorithm is appropriate to predict the mechanical properties of the hot rolled low carbon steel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The primary objective of current tissue regeneration research is to synthesize nano-based platforms that can induce guided, controlled, and rapid healing. Titanium nanotubes have been extensively considered as a new biomaterial for biosensors, implants, cell growth, tissue engineering, and drug delivery systems. However, due to their one-dimensional structure and chemical inertness, cell adhesion to nanotubes is poor. Therefore, further surface modification is required to enhance nanotube–cell interaction. Although there have been a considerable number of studies on growing titanium nanotubes, synthesizing a three-dimensional (3-D) nano-architecture which can act as a growth support platform for bone and stem cells has not been reported so far. Therefore, we present a novel technique to synthesize and grow 3-D titania interwoven nanofibrous structures on a titanium substrate using femtosecond laser irradiation under ambient conditions. This surface architecture incorporate the functions of 3-D nano-scaled topography and modified chemical properties to improve osseointegration while at the same time leaving space to deliver other functional agents. The results indicate that laser pulse repetition can control the density and pore size of engineered nanofibrous structures. In vitro experiments reveal that the titania nanofibrous architecture possesses excellent bioactivity and can induce rapid, uniform, and controllable bone-like apatite precipitation once immersed in simulated body fluid (SBF). This approach to synthesizing 3-D titania nanofibrous structures suggests considerable promise for the promotion of Ti interfacial properties to develop new functional biomaterials for various biomedical applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background& Aims: Rhus coriaria L. (Sumac) is a popular spice/herb with several biological functions owing to its antioxidant and insulin-like activities. Many clinical trials have indicated the potent anti-diabetic property of sumac but the results on few glycemic indices were inconclusive. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis were aimed to investigate sumac supplementation effect on glycemic indices.Methods: Systematically searched was performed by two independent reviewers using online databases including: PubMed, Scopus, web of science, EMBASE from inception until November 2020. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI).Results: A total of 6 potentially relevant clinical trials met the inclusion criteria with total of 278 participants. Random-effects meta-analysis suggested no significant effects on the levels of fasting blood glucose [-7.08 mg/dl, 95 % CI: -14.85 to 0.70,P = 0.07, I2 = 59.8 %], glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) [-0.48 %, 95 % CI: -1.01 to -0.04, P = 0.07, I2 = 0.0 %], homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [-0.97, 95 % CI: -1.96 to 0.02, P = 0.05, I2 = 83.8 %], and insulin [-2.94 Hedges' g, 95 % CI: -6.67 to 0.80, P = 0.12, I2 = 83.1 %] following supplementation with sumac powder.Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed no significant effects on any glycemic indices following supplementation with sumac powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the prevalent medical issues that deserve global attention is adverse pregnancy outcomes and preterm low birth weight deliveries which have a significant impact on neonatal health. Periodontitis has been implicated as a significant risk factor for adverse effects in pregnancy. Elevated levels of periodontal pathogenic bacteria and proinflammatory cytokines which are pathognomonic features of periodontitis are believed to cause placental infection and premature rupture of the amniotic membrane consequently leading to preterm delivery. The role of CD14+CD16+ monocytes as a causal link between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes has not been researched so far, although an elevation of these cells has been independently demonstrated in both conditions. With the available background information, this hypothesis attempts to derive a mechanistic link between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes through the participation of CD14+CD16+ monocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Genomic metrics allow the reclassification of UBT1T and H1 into a novel genus. • The novel genus, Carbonactinospora , has distinctive phenotypic characteristics. • The novel genus belongs to a distinct phylogenetic lineage within Actinomycetia. Streptomyces thermoautotrophicus UBT1T has been suggested to merit generic status due to its phylogenetic placement and distinctive phenotypes among Actinomycetia. To evaluate whether ' S. thermoautotrophicus ' represents a higher taxonomic rank, ' S. thermoautotrophicus ' strains UBT1T and H1 were compared to Actinomycetia using 16S rRNA gene sequences and comparative genome analyses. The UBT1T and H1 genomes each contain at least two different 16S rRNA sequences, which are closely related to those of Acidothermus cellulolyticus (order Acidothermales). In multigene-based phylogenomic trees, UBT1T and H1 typically formed a sister group to the Streptosporangiales-Acidothermales clade. The Average Amino Acid Identity, Percentage of Conserved Proteins, and whole-genome Average Nucleotide Identity (Alignment Fraction) values were ≤58.5%, ≤48%, ≤75.5% (0.3) between ' S. thermoautotrophicus ' and Streptosporangiales members, all below the respective thresholds for delineating genera. The values for genomics comparisons between strains UBT1T and H1 with Acidothermales , as well as members of the genus Streptomyces , were even lower. A review of the ' S. thermoautotrophicus ' proteomic profiles and KEGG orthology demonstrated that UBT1T and H1 present pronounced differences, both tested and predicted, in phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics compared to its sister clades and Streptomyces. The distinct phylogenetic position and the combination of genotypic and phenotypic characteristics justify the proposal of Carbonactinospora gen. nov., with the type species Carbonactinospora thermoautotrophica comb. nov. (type strain UBT1T, = DSM 100163T = KCTC 49540T) belonging to Carbonactinosporaceae fam. nov. within Actinomycetia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the optimization of nitrogen (N) doping in TiO 2 nanotubes to achieve the enhanced photocatalytic efficiencies in degradation of dye and H 2 gas evolution under solar light exposure. TiO 2 nanotubes have been produced via hydrothermal process and N doping has been tuned by varying the concentration of urea, being the source for N, by solid-state dispersion process. The structural analysis using XRD showed the characteristic occupancy of N into the structure of TiO 2 and the XPS studies showed the existence of Ti–N–Ti network in the N-doped TiO 2 nanotubes. The obtained TEM images showed the formation of 1D tube-like structure of TiO 2. Diffuse reflectance UV–Vis absorption spectra demonstrated that the N-doped TiO 2 nanotubes can efficiently absorb the photons of UV–Vis light of the solar light. The optimized N-doped TiO 2 nanotubes (TiO 2 nanotubes vs urea @ 1:1 ratio) showed the highest degradation efficiency over methyl orange dye (∼91% in 90 min) and showed the highest rate of H 2 evolution (∼19,848 μmol h−1.g−1) under solar light irradiation. Further, the recyclability studies indicated the excellent stability of the photocatalyst for the durable use in both the photocatalytic processes. The observed efficiency was ascribed to the optimized doping of N-atoms into the lattices of TiO 2 , which enhanced the optical properties by forming new energy levels of N atoms near the valence band maximum of TiO 2 , thereby increased the overall charge separation and recombination resistance in the system. The improved reusability of photocatalyst is attributed to the doping-induced structural stability in N-doped TiO 2. From the observed results, it has been recognized that the established strategy could be promising for synthesizing N-doped TiO 2 nanotubes with favorable structural, optical and photocatalytic properties towards dye degradation and hydrogen production applications. Image 1 • Hydrothermal route to develop TiO 2 nanotubes from TiO 2 bulk powders. • Optimization of N-doping to tune the physio-chemical properties of TiO 2 nanotubes. • Confirmation of Ti–N–O–Ti network in N–TiO 2 via XRD, XPS and FT-IR. • Achievement of 91% degradation of methyl orange dye in 90 min. • Achievement of a highest rate of H 2 evolution ∼19,848 μmol h−1.g−1. This study demonstrates the development of N-doped TiO 2 nanotubes from bulk TiO 2 powder and their enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation and H 2 production under solar light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on the efficacy of artichoke administration on anthropometric indices gave different outcomes. Hence, a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis were accomplished to understand the effects of artichoke administration on anthropometric indices.Methods: Related clinical trials were found by searching in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Scopus databases up to 29 February 2020. Weighted Mean Differences (WMD) were analyzed using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, publication bias and sensitivity analysis were assessed for anthropometric indices.Results: Pooled analysis of 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggested that the artichoke administration has effect on waist circumference (WMD: -1.11 cm, 95 % CI: -2.08 to - 0.14), as opposed to the other anthropometric indices including weight (WMD: -0.62 kg, 95 % CI: -1.86 to 0.61) or BMI (WMD: -0.12, 95 % CI: -0.43 to 0.20). However, the analysis of the subgroups according to the health status showed that artichoke supplementation in hypertensive patients significantly reduced weight (WMD: -2.34 kg, 95 % CI: -3.11 to -1.57) but not the other indicators (WMD: -0.06 kg, 95 % CI: 0.78 to 0.67).Conclusions: The artichoke supplementation has effect on the waist circumference, but not on the other anthropometric indices. For establishment of more accurate conclusion more studies with longer administration duration are need to be done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RTCs) was conducted to summarize the effect of ginger supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in adults. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were systematically searched up to February 2018 to identify eligible RCTs which assessed the effect of ginger on C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation products like malondialdehyde (MDA). Fourteen studies were eligible to be included in the quantitative analysis. Results from meta-analysis suggested that CRP (−0.8 mg/L, 95 % CI: −1.17 to −0.43; I2 = 53 %), IL-6 (−2.26 pg/mL; 95 % CI: −4.00 to −0.52; I2 = 58 %) and TNF-α (−1.33 pg/mL; 95 % CI: −1.85 to −0.80; I2 = 55 %) were significantly reduced by ginger supplementation. The pooled effect size indicated a significant increase in blood TAC levels after ginger consumption (1.26 μmol/L; 95 % CI: 0.17–2.35; I2 = 84 %). Ginger had no significant effect on MDA (−0.29 μmol/L; 95 % CI: −1.06 to 0.47; I2 = 78 %). Subgroup analysis showed that the effect of ginger on CRP and TNF-α is more pronounced in studies with >80-days' intervention. When studies were categorized based on hs-CRP/CRP, the effect of ginger was significant in both subgroups. In conclusion, the present study suggested that supplementation with ginger can improve health status in adults by lowering inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Future trials with high methodological quality are needed to support the beneficial potential (anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects) of ginger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of allylic and benzylic alcohols are oxidized to their respective carbonyl compounds with IBX under solvent-free conditions at ca. 60–70 °C. It has also been found that some of the aromatic aldehydes also undergo oxidation when heated with IBX at 90 °C under solvent-free conditions; notably, this transformation does not occur under the otherwise identical but heterogeneous conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During the maximum of Solar Cycle 23, large active regions had a long life, spanning several solar rotations, and produced large numbers of X-class flares and CMEs, some of them associated to magnetic clouds (MCs). This is the case for the Halloween active regions in 2003. The most geoeffective MC of the cycle (Dst=−457) had its source during the disk passage of one of these active regions (NOAA 10501) on 18 November 2003. Such an activity was presumably due to continuous emerging magnetic flux that was observed during this passage. Moreover, the region exhibited a complex topology with multiple domains of different magnetic helicities. The complexity was observed to reach such unprecedented levels that a detailed multi-wavelength analysis is necessary to precisely identify the solar sources of CMEs and MCs. Magnetic clouds are identified using in situ measurements and interplanetary scintillation (IPS) data. Results from these two different sets of data are also compared. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]