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The meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of mandibular advancement device (MAD) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and explore the effect of different positions on MAD for OSA. The Embase, PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant studies evaluating the effect of MAD on the treatment of OSA from database inception to November 2022. The Bayesian random-effects mode was used to calculate the pooled outcome. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were applied to investigate the heterogeneity. A total of 6 studies enrolling 643 patients were eligible for further analysis. MAD treatment led to improvements in total apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) for both positional OSA(POSA) and Non-POSA groups, but there was no significant difference in the effect of MAD on Non-POSA and POSA (MD = −1.46,95%CI [-4.89,1.97], P = 0.40). In the supine position, AHI improvement after MAD treatment in POSA group was more than that in Non-POSA group by 15 events/hour in average (MD = 14.82, 95%CI [11.43,18.22], P＜0.00001), while in the non-supine position, the change of AHI in Non-POSA group was significantly better than that in POSA group by approximately 8 events/hour (MD = −7.55,95%CI[-10.73,-4.38],p < 0.00001). MAD is more suitable for POSA compared to Non-POSA in patients with habitual sleep in the supine or supine predominant position. While for patients with habitual sleep in the non-supine position, MAD is an effective treatment option for Non-POSA. • MAD treatment led to improvements in total AHI for both POSA and Non-POSA patients. • MAD is more suitable for POSA in patients with habitual sleep in the supine or supine predominant position. • For patients with habitual sleep in the non-supine position, MAD is an effective treatment option for Non-POSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were widely used in the antibacterial field because of their excellent antibacterial properties. In this study, we used hesperidin and pectin as reductants and stabilizers, and prepared uniform and stable Hesperidin-Pectin AgNPs (HP-AgNPs) by a simple microwave-assisted process. Increasing the proportion of hesperidin, P-AgNPs, HP-AgNPs1, HP-AgNPs2 and H-AgNPs were obtained respectively. With the increase of hesperidin ratio, the mean particle size and zeta potential increased gradually. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that Ag+ was reduced by hesperidin and pectin. Antibacterial tests showed that HP-AgNPs2 showed the MIC values of 66.7 μg/mL against E. coli. In addition, HP-AgNPs2 was selected to clarify its antibacterial mechanism against E. coli. Morphological experiments showed that HP-AgNPs2 stress caused damage to the cell wall of E. coli , as well as leakage of its contents and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the other hand, the release of Ag+ during cell co-culture was studied and the results showed that most of the Ag+ released was taken up by E. coli. The synergistic effect of hesperidin and pectin resulted in a significant enhancement of the antibacterial properties of AgNPs. These preliminary data suggest that HP-AgNPs has good antibacterial activity and may be developed as an effective antibacterial nanomaterial. • Synergistic preparation of silver nanoparticles from hesperidin and pectin. • The synergistic effect enhances the antibacterial effect of nanosilver effectively. • The action of nano‑silver on bacteria leads to the destruction of their cell walls and leakage of their contents. • Most of the Ag+ released by nanosilver is absorbed by E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop and validate a model based on MRI radiomics modals for predicting surgical high FIGO(IB3 and ≥ IIA2) and low FIGO(IB1, IB2, and IIA1) stages in patients with cervical carcinoma (CC). A total of 296 early-stage patients with CC (preoperative FIGO stages IB-IIA) confirmed by surgery and pathology were included in this retrospective study from two institutions For each patient,we extracted radiomics features from spectral attenuated inversion-recovery T2-weighted (SPAIR-T2W) and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (CE-T1W) images.Manual segmentation was performed using the 3D Slicer software, while radiomics features were extracted, screened using the R software. A 2-stage feature extraction strategy involving univariate analysis and the Least Absolute Shrinkage Selection Operator technique was performed. A support vector machine-based model was eventually constructed. Predictive accuracy of the training and validation datasets was assessed in terms of area under the ROC curve (AUC). A total of 1130 features were extracted from SPAIR-T2WI and CET1WI images respectively, in which 8 and 7 features significantly were associated with FIGO staging. AUCs of the SPAIR-T2W and CE-T1W models were were 0.803 and 0.790, respectively, in the internal validation group. In the external validation group, the AUCs were 0.767 and 0.749, respectively, which increased to 0.771 in the combined model. Our study demonstrated the feasibility of radiomics features from SPAIR-T2W and CE-T1W images for the prediction of surgical FIGO stage in CC. Our proposed model thereby carries the potential as a non-invasive tool for the staging and treatment planning of this disease. A radiomics model provide a non-invasive and objective method for the detection of FIGO staging in patients with cervical cancer before surgery, thus providing a reference for the selection of treatment options for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer are both common diseases with poor prognosis and high mortality worldwide. The coexistence of the two diseases has rarely been reported while their relationship has been noted. Here we describe a patient diagnosed with both TB and squamous cell carcinoma in a single lesion. The patient had a cough for four months and polypnea for two months, with a smoking history of over 40 years. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed a lobular mass in the right hilar region, which was diagnosed as TB by transbronchial lung biopsy. The symptoms and CT findings indicated the possibility of lung cancer. So, the patient underwent a further lung biopsy at the periphery of the mass, which was confirmed as squamous cell carcinoma. This case illuminated that when the mass with cancer-like morphologic features and location instead of typical TB, even the initial pathological result shows TB, coexistence of the diseases should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Pectin was extracted from orange peel using surfactant and microwave assisted method. • Pectin yield, GA content, and DE were considered during Box–Behnken design. • Chemical properties of pectin extracted by different methods were compared. • S-MAE showed the best effect on the yield and characteristics of extracted pectin. Abstract Surfactant and microwave assisted extraction (S-MAE) was used for pectin extraction from orange peel. First, we optimized the conditions of microwave assisted extraction (MAE), e.g., irradiation time, liquid-to-solid ratio (LSR), and pH on pectin yield (PY), galacturonic acid (GA) content, and degree of esterification (DE) using a Box-Behnken design. Under optimal conditions (pH 1.2, 7.0 min, and 21.5 v/w LSR), we obtained a PY of 28.0 ± 0.5%, which was close to the predicted value (31.1%). Second, we analyzed the effect of surfactant on microwave extraction of pectin. Among the surfactants investigated, Tween-80 (8 g/L, w/v) increased PY by 17.0%. Compared with conventional solvent extraction, S-MAE is a novel and efficient method for pectin extraction, which generated a higher (p < 0.05) PY (32.8%), GA content (78.1%), DE (69.8%), and M w (286.3 kDa). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Ag NPs were prepared by the reaction of silver nitrate with alkali hydrolyzed pectin at microwave irradiation. • Small size spherical Ag NPs were produced with average sizes of 2.9 nm and 11.9 nm depending on microwave time. • Obtained Ag NPs colloidal solution were well stable with Zeta potential of near −40 mV. • MICs of Ag NPs against both E. coli and S. aureus were equally at 80–160 µg/ml. Abstract In this work, monodispersed silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were prepared by the reaction of silver nitrate with alkali hydrolyzed pectin at microwave irradiation. Two types of Ag NPs were obtained under the following conditions: 400 W of microwave power, 1 g/l NaOH, 2 g/l pectin, 10 mmol/l AgNO 3 , and irradiation time for 1 and 2 min, respectively. The zeta potential values of Ag NPs colloidal solutions were −39.6 and −38.7 mV, indicating that these nanoparticles were stable. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed these spherical Ag NPs with an average size 2.90 and 11.94 nm, respectively. Ag NPs exhibited potent antibacterial and antifungal activities to against Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , and Aspergillus japonicus , and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MIC) to against E. coli and S. aureus were equally at 80–160 µg/ml. In a word, this is a green, efficient, and cost-effective method for Ag NPs synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the average number of culprit arteries per patient, clinical success rate, and hemoptysis-free survival rate between hemoptysis patients with multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography prior to bronchial artery embolization (BAE) and those without preprocedural MDCT angiography METHODS: This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board with waiver of patient informed consent. From September 2012 to March 2017, 157 consecutive hemoptysis patients had been undergoing BAE. Among them, 106 patients received preprocedural MDCT angiography (MDCT group), while 51 patients did not receive preprocedural MDCT angiography (control group). The average number of culprit arteries per patient, clinical success rate, and hemoptysis-free survival rate were compared between the two groups.Results: The average number of culprit ectopic bronchial arteries and that of non-bronchial systemic arteries originating from the subclavian and internal mammary arteries per patient in the MDCT group were both significantly higher than those in the control group (0.15 ± 0.51 vs 0.04 ± 0.20, p = 0.022, and 0.17 ± 0.56 vs 0.08 ± 0.39, p = 0.040, respectively). The clinical success rate of BAE with preprocedural MDCT angiography tended to be higher than that without MDCT angiography (97.2 vs 88.2%, p = 0.057). Importantly, patients in the MDCT group had a significantly higher hemoptysis-free early survival rate compared to those in the control group (96.1 vs 86.7%, p = 0.031).Conclusions: Preprocedural MDCT angiography helps detect culprit ectopic bronchial arteries and non-bronchial systemic arteries originating from subclavian and internal mammary arteries during BAE, and can improve the hemoptysis-free early survival rate, which could be recommended as a regular examination prior to BAE in patients with hemoptysis.Key Points: • Preprocedural MDCT angiography helps detect culprit ectopic bronchial arteries and NBSAs originating from subclavian and internal mammary arteries during BAE. • Conducting MDCT angiography prior to BAE can improve hemoptysis-free early survival rate in hemoptysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orange peel wastes were enzymatically depolymerized into pectic oligosaccharides (POS) by multi-enzyme complexes from Aspergillus japonicus PJ01. The hydrolyzate was fractionated via membrane separation into three fractions: POS1 <1 kDa; 1 kDa < POS2 < 3 kDa; POS3 > 3 kDa. Compositional analysis showed that these fractions were rich in glucose, arabinose, and galacturonic acid. The prebiotic potentials of these fractions were evaluated via single culture with Bifidobacterium infantis , Lactobacillus acidophilus , Clostridium perfringens , and Bacteroides fragilis . Results showed that POS2 had higher prebiotic property than POS1 and 3, and it was comparable to fructooligosaccharide. In mixed culture, POS2 showed positive effect on B. infantis , while negative effect on B. fragilis according to the results of real-time quantitative PCR analysis. The antimicrobial activities of the POS were examined by typical bacteria Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus subtilis , and Escherichia coli. Results showed that POS1 and 2 had higher antimicrobial activities than POS3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of high-pressure processing (HPP) (0-400 MPa for 10 min) on the cooking loss (CL), gel strength, and thermal gelling mechanism of chicken breast actomyosin solution containing 0.5 % ( w/ v) sodium alginate (AS-SA) were investigated. The results showed that HPP could significantly increase ( P < 0.05) the reactive sulfhydryl contents, surface hydrophobicity, and turbidity of the pressurized sample under 200-400 MPa and gradually decrease its thermal gelling ability with an elevating pressure from 100 to 400 MPa. The HPP under 300 MPa for 10 min could enhance the thermal stability of AS-SA and promote the formation of AS-SA gel structure with large pores and thick strands. Those resulted in the increased gel strength and the increased CL of pressurized AS-SA, which were relative to hydrophobic interaction and disulfide bonding. The information could offer certain theoretical foundation to apply HPP technology for developing meat-SA gels with various properties via combinational use of different HPP levels and SA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioleaching of heavy metals from a contaminated soil in an industrial area using metabolites, mainly weak organic acids, produced by a fungus Aspergillus niger was investigated. Batch experiments were performed to compare the leaching efficiencies of one-step and two-step processes and to determine the transformation of heavy metal chemical forms during the bioleaching process. After the one or two-step processes, the metal removals were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least-significance difference (LSD). A. niger exhibits a good potential in generating a variety of organic acids effective for metal solubilisation. Results showed that after the one-step process, maximum removals of 56%, 100%, 30% and 19% were achieved for copper, cadmium, lead and zinc, respectively. After the two-step process, highest removals of 97.5% Cu, 88.2% Cd, 26% Pb, and 14.5% Zn were obtained. Results of sequential extraction showed that organic acids produced by A. niger were effective in removing the exchangeable, carbonate, and Fe/Mn oxide fractions of Cu, Cd, Pb and Zn; and after both processes the metals remaining in the soil were mainly bound in stable fractions. Such a treatment procedure indicated that leaching of heavy metals from contaminated soil using A. niger has the potential for use in remediation of contaminated soils. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A few researchers have reported on work concerning bioleaching of heavy-metal-contaminated soil using Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, since this acidophile is sensitive to dissolved low molecular weight (LMW) organic acids. Iron oxidation by A. ferrooxidans R2 as well as growth on ferrous iron was inhibited by a variety of dissolved LMW organic acids. Growth experiments with ferrous iron as an oxidant showed that the inhibition capability sequence was formic acid>acetic acid>propionic acid>oxalic acid>malic acid>citric acid. The concentrations that R2 might tolerate were formic acid 0.1mmolL−1 (2mmolkg−1 soil), acetic and propionic acids 0.4mmolL−1 (8mmolkg−1 soil), oxalic acid 2.0mmolL−1 (40mmolkg−1 soil), malic acid 20mmolL−1 (400mmolkg−1 soil), citric acid 40mmolL−1 (800mmolkg−1 soil), respectively. Although R2 was sensitive to organic acids, the concentrations of LMW organic acids in the contaminated soils were rather lower than the tolerable levels. Hence, it is feasible that R2 might be used for bioleaching of soils contaminated with metals or metals coupled with organic compounds because of the higher concentrations of LMW organic acids to which R2 is tolerant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study focuses on the biological synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using extracellular extracts of Aspergillus japonicus PJ01.The optimal conditions of the synthesis process were: 10 mL of extracellular extracts, 1 mL of AgNO3 (0.8 mol/L), 4 mL of NaOH solution (1.5 mol/L), 30 °C, and a reaction time of 1 min. The characterizations of AgNPs were tested by UV-visible spectrophotometry, zeta potential, scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric (TG) analyses. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that Ag+ was reduced by the extracellular extracts, which consisted chiefly of soluble proteins and reducing sugars. In this work, AgNO3 concentration played an important role in the physicochemical properties and antibacterial properties of AgNPs. Under the AgNO3 concentration of 0.2 and 0.8 mol/L, the diameters of AgNPs were 3.8 ± 1.1 and 9.1 ± 2.9 nm, respectively. In addition, smaller-sized AgNPs showed higher antimicrobial properties, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values against both E. coli and S. aureus were 0.32 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The stability of an imaginary planet located in the present main asteroid belt is studied with a 7-body model (Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and the imaginary planet). The fourth-order Hermite algorithm P(EC)3 is used, which has a very small secular energy error for the integration of periodic orbits with a constant time-step. The evolution of orbits is followed up to 108 years. Our numerical results show that the low-order resonances with Jupiter can enhance the stability of the imaginary planet in some cases. The survival probability of the imaginary planet decreases with the planet mass. The upper limit of the imaginary planet''s mass that can survive in the main belt is around 1025 kg, i.e., about the Earth''s mass. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Several main metabolites of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) formed by Penicillium chrysogenum, Benzo[a]pyrene-1, 6-quinone (BP 1.6-quinone), trans-7, 8-dihydroxy-7, 8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene (BP 7, 8-diol), 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3-OHBP), were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The three metabolites were liable to be accumulated and were hardly further metabolized because of their toxicity to microorganisms. However, their further degradation was essential for the complete degradation of BaP. To enhance their degradation, two methods, degradation by coupling Penicillium chrysogenum with KMnO4 and degradation only by Penicillium chrysogenum, were compared; Meanwhile, the parameters of degradation in the superior method were optimized. The results showed that (1) the method of coupling Penicillium chrysogenum with KMnO4 was better and was the first method to be used in the degradation of BaP and its metabolites; (2) the metabolite, BP 1, 6-quinone was the most liable to be accumulated in pure cultures; (3) the effect of degradation was the best when the concentration of KMnO4 in the cultures was 0.01% (w/v), concentration of the three compounds was 5 mg/L and pH was 6.2. Based on the experimental results, a novel concept with regard to the bioremediation of BaP-contaminated environment was discussed, considering the influence on environmental toxicity of the accumulated metabolites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The rates of photodegradation and photocatalysis of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) on soil surfaces under UV light have been studied. Different parameters such as temperature, soil particle sizes, and soil depth responsible for photodegradation, catalyst loads and wavelength of UV irradiation blamed for photocatalysis have been monitored. The results obtained indicated that BaP photodegradation follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. BaP photodegradation was the fastest at 30°C. The rates of BaP photodegradation at different soil particle size followed the order: less than 1 mm>less than 0.45 mm>less than 0.25 mm. When the soil depth increased from 1 mm to 4 mm, the half-life increased from 13.23 d to 17.73 d. The additions of TiO2 or Fe2O3 accelerated the photodegradation of BaP, and the photocatalysis of BaP follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. Changes in catalyst loads of TiO2 (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 3% (wt)) or Fe2O3 (2%, 5%, 7%, and 10% (wt)) did not significantly affect the degradation rates. Both BaP photocatalysis in the presence of TiO2 and Fe2O3 were the fastest at 254 nm UV irradiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two indigenous microorganisms, Bacillus sp. SB02 and Mucor sp. SF06, capable of degrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were co-immobilized on vermiculite by physical adsorption and used to degrade benzo[a] pyrene (BaP). The characteristics of BaP degradation by both free and co-immobilized microorganism were then investigated and compared. The removal rate using the immobilized bacterial-fungal mixed consortium was higher than that of the freely mobile mixed consortium. 95.3% of BaP was degraded using the co-immobilized system within 42 d, which was remarkably higher than the removal rate of that by the free strains. The optimal amount of inoculated co-immobilized system for BaP degradation was 2%. The immobilized bacterial-fungal mixed consortium also showed better water stability than the free strains. Kinetics of BaP biodegradation by co-immobilized SF06 and SB02 were also studied. The results demonstrated that BaP degradation could be well described by a zero-order reaction rate equation when the initial BaP concentration was in the range of 10—200 mg/kg. The scanning electronic microscope (SEM) analysis showed that the co-immobilized microstructure was suitable for the growth of SF06 and SB02. The mass transmission process of co-immobilized system in soil is discussed. The results demonstrate the potential for employing the bacterial-fungal mixed consortium, co-immobilized on vermiculite, for in situ bioremediation of BaP. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Biomarkers in higher plants played an important role to estimate exposure effects of pollutants in soil ecosystem and have received increasing attention in recent years. The qualitative and quantitative modifications arising in amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) profiles as a measure of DNA effects were compared with a number of parameters, namely, the root length, total soluble protein content in root tips, chlorophylls content and shoot size to select the most sensitive biomarker responding to copper stress in the range of 0—600 mg/kg. The changes occurring in AFLP profiles of root tips following Cu treatment included loss of normal bands and appearance of new bands and variation in band intensity in comparison to that of the normal seedlings. A reduction in root length was observed at the 200 mg/kg of copper, which was accompanied with a decrease in total soluble protein content. According to their sensitivity to the copper toxicity, the above indicator rank in the following order: AFLP profiles > total soluble protein content > root length > chlorophylls content > shoot. We concluded that the AFLP offered a useful alternative biomarker assay for the detection of genotoxic effects of environmental pollutants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study reports the feasibility of remediation of a heavy metal (HM) contaminated soil using tartaric acid, an environmentally-friendly extractant. Batch experiments were performed to test the factors influencing remediation of the HM contaminated soil. An empirical model was employed to describe the kinetics of HM dissolution/desorption and to predict equilibrium concentrations of HMs in soil leachate. The changes of HMs in different fractions before and after tartaric acid treatment were also investigated. Tartaric acid solution containing HMs was regenerated by chestnut shells. Results show that utilization of tartaric acid was effective for removal of HMs from the contaminated soil, attaining 50%–60% of Cd, 40%–50% of Pb, 40%–50% of Cu and 20%–30% of Zn in the pH range of 3.5–4.0 within 24 h. Mass transfer coefficients for cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) were much higher than those for copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn). Sequential fractionations of treated and untreated soil samples showed that tartaric acid was effective in removing the exchangeable, carbonate fractions of Cd, Zn and Cu from the contaminated soil. The contents of Pb and Cu in Fe-Mn oxide fraciton were also significantly decreased by tartaric acid treatment. One hundred milliliters of tartaric acid solution containing HMs could be regenerated by 10 g chestnut shells in a batch reactor. Such a remediation procedure indicated that tartaric acid is a promising agent for remediation of HM contaminated soils. However, further research is needed before the method can be practically used for in situ remediation of contaminated sites [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of bioremediation on microbial communities in soils contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons are a scientific problem to be solved. Changes in dominate microbial species and the total amount of microorganisms including bacteria and fungi in rhizospheric soils after bioremediation were thus evaluated using field bioremediation experiments. The results showed that there were changed dominant microorganisms including 11 bacterial strains which are mostly Gram positive bacteria and 6 fungal species which were identified. The total amount of microorganisms including bacteria and fungi increased after bioremediation of microbial agents combined with planting maize. On the contrary, fungi in rhizospheric soils were inhibited by adding microbial agents combined with planting soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To exploit peashrub resources in Ordos as fodders, it is very crucial to realize industrial production of cheap cellulase of high activity by optimizing culture technology, especially culture substrate. In this study, a new prescription experiment based on uniform design ideal was invented and successfully applied in the solid fermentation of Trichoderma koningii F244, which was performed with two different temperature degrees. The activities of FPA, cotton lyase, CMCase and β-glucosidase were assayed and then mathematical models of enzymatic activities, which were figured out by Unconstraint Mathematical Programming, were developed by Multivariate Regression Program of SPSS10. 0. Enzymatic activities of optimized substrate prescriptions corresponding to mathematical models were forecasted to determine an ideal substrate prescription. It is revealed that in solid fermentation, Tween80 has negative effect on cellulase production. Furthermore, the ideal prescription for cellulase complex production by Trichoderma koningii F244 was straw powder 16.9% , wheat bran 26.5%, (NH4)2SO4 9.5% and water 47.1%, whose corresponding cellulase activity was expected to be at the same high level with that of Trichoderma reesei Q9414 on its own recommended substrate. Especially, goats mainly fed on peashrub tissues mixed with cellulase complex of this prescription and culture technology, got an incremental ratio of 0.3 kg/d, which brought a very promising feeding prospect for local peashrub resource. By populization of this cellulase complex, it can integrate living standard, economic construction of local residents into vegetational restoration tightly and thus this paper will be very meaningful to be use for reference for western China like Ordos to realize its sustainable development of economy, society and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The fluxes of greenhouse gases (methane and nitrous oxide) emission from a constructed wetland in the Eastern China as municipal sewage treatment were measured from June 1999 to August 2000 by the closed chamber method. The constructed wetland for municipal sewage treatment is a significant source of methane, up to 976.6 x 10[sup 6] g CH[sub 4]/a, which was emitted from the constructed wetland with the area of 495000 m² and wastewater loading rate of 12000 m³/d. Its daily mean methane flux reached 5.22 g CH[sub 4]/(m² ⋅ d), 250 times as much as that in natural wetland in the same latitude region. 227.8 mg CH[sub 4] was produced from the treatment of 1 liter wastewater, up to 700--1000 times as much as that in the secondary treatment. The emission of nitrous oxide from the constructed wetland is not higher than that from secondary treatment of wastewater, only 0.07 mgN[sub 2]O/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the effect of early swallowing training on postoperative outcomes of patients who had undergone oral cancer surgery plus free flap reconstruction. Subjects and Methods: In this prospective, randomized controlled trial, 121 patients who had undergone oral cancer surgery plus free flap reconstruction were randomly assigned to the control (n = 59) or intervention group (n = 62). The control group underwent routine nursing measures. The intervention group received swallowing training on the sixth postoperative day. On the 15th day and 1 month after surgery, the swallowing function (Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability‐Oral Cancer [MASA‐OC] score), weight loss rate, time of nasogastric tube removal, and quality of life were evaluated. Results: Patients in the intervention group had higher MASA‐OC scores and better weight loss rates than those in the control group on the 15th day (MASA‐OC: p = 0.014, weight loss: p < 0.001) and 1 month (both p < 0.001) after surgery. The time of nasogastric tube removal and the quality of life was statistically significant between groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Early swallowing training improves the swallowing function, nutritional status, and quality of life and shortens the indwelling time of nasogastric tube of patients who have undergone oral cancer surgery plus free flap reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytotoxicity of chlorobenzoic acids (CBAs) was studied and the biochemical endpoints' suitability and sensibility was evaluated. Two terrestrial plant species in the same family were exposed to different concentrations of CBAS and tested their germination according to the guideline of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECP, 1984). The results showed that CBA dose-inhibition rate of classical endpoint had the distinct linear relationship in the range of 10%–50% inhibition rate for root elongation (p < 0.01), and the dose variances of CBAs had the greater influence on the inhibition rate of germination than on inhibition rate of root elongation. The CBA dose half effect concentration-inhibition rate of two antioxidant enzyme activity superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) had the quadratic relationship, and CBA dose-inhibition rate of the peroxides (POD) activity had the linear relationship (p <0.05). Comparing the half effect concentration (EC_{50}) of two kinds of endpoints, the POD activity was more sensitive than classical endpoint, however, SOD and CAT activity were not sensitive in the experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined effect of calcium chloride (CaCl 2 ) (20–100 mM) and high pressure processing (HPP, 200 MPa) on the solubility of myofibrillar proteins (MP) was investigated under sodium-reduced conditions (0.3 M sodium chloride). The results revealed that HPP combined with low concentrations (<40 mM) of CaCl 2 synergistically increased the solubility of MP, but an antagonistic effect occurred when a high concentration (100 mM) of CaCl 2 was present. This synergistic effect could be attributed to a mildly destabilized conformation of myosin, an increased surface hydrophobicity and the decreased total sulfhydryl group content of MP. However, CaCl 2 at 100 mM destabilized myosin to a larger extent and induced non-disulfide covalent cross-linking of S-1 subfragment in pressurized MP, thus attenuating the solubilizing effect of HPP on the myosin heavy chain, resulting in the antagonistic effect. Therefore, HPP in combination with low-level CaCl 2 (<40 mM) may improve the functional properties of sodium-reduced meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes on the success of bronchial arterial embolization (BAE) in patients with and without systemic artery-to-pulmonary vessel fistula (SA-PF) and to evaluate the feasibility of CTA in the assessment of SA-PF. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 420 consecutive patients that underwent BAE for hemoptysis control in our hospital from September 2011 to May 2019. The clinical characteristics, preprocedural CTA findings, BAE procedural findings, and follow-up outcomes were collected. Patients were divided into two groups according to DSA findings: patients with SA-PF and those without. Results: A total of 184 (43.7%) patients presented with SA-PF. Pneumonia was less likely to be the concomitant condition in patients with SA-PF (p < 0.001). The mean number of culprit arteries per patient was significantly higher in patients with SA-PF compared to that in patients without SA-PF (p = 0.017). The SA-PF patients saw a greater probability of recurrence (HR: 2.782, 95% CI: 1.617–4.784, p < 0.001). SA-pulmonary venous fistula (SA-PVF) favored lower hemoptysis recurrence rate (HR: 0.199, 95%CI: 0.052–0.765, p = 0.019). SA-pulmonary artery fistula (SA-PAF) can be detected by optimized CTA protocol with a detection rate of 65.3% (49/75). Conclusions: The presence of SA-PF is an independent risk factor predicting early recurrence of hemoptysis after BAE. SA-PVF seems to be a protective factor for longer hemoptysis control compared to SA-PAF. Optimized preprocedural CTA is a reliable examination to identify SA-PAF. Key Points: • The appearance of SA-PF is associated with a greater probability of early recurrent hemoptysis after bronchial artery embolization. • The presence of SA-PVF seems to be a protective factor for longer hemoptysis control after BAE compared to SA-PAF. • Optimized CTA protocol seems to be a promising auxiliary examination to detect SA-PAF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The LDHs and LDO were prepared and characterized to catalyze removal nitrogen element in hydrochar. • Mg-Al LDO showed the highest efficiency for the removal of nitrogen among the catalysts. • Partial floc directly transformed to hydrochar according to "solid-solid" reaction. • The possibility reaction pathways of removal nitrogen during HTC were proposed. The high content of nitrogen in hydrochar produced from hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of sewage sludge (SS) leads to serious NOx pollution when the hydrochar is used as a solid fuel. Mg-Ga layered double hydroxides (LDHs), Mg-Al LDHs and their calcined samples (layered double oxides, LDO) were prepared. The LDHs and LDO all can notably promote the removal of nitrogen element, in which organic-N was transferred to NH 4 +-N to cause increasing pH value. Mg-Al LDO showed the highest efficiency for the removal of nitrogen among the catalysts. The thermal decomposition of the N-organic matter with acidic sites in catalyst was the key step to release NH 3. The key role of basic sites in Mg-Al LDO was that it can effectively destroy the cell wall and extracellular polymeric substances structure. The lipid-like substance did not participate in the carbonization reaction, but they can be absorbed by the hydrochar. Partial SS floc directly transformed to hydrochar according to "solid-solid" reaction. The reaction pathways of remove nitrogen were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two physical methods are used to accelerate curing and improve quality of reduced‐sodium bacon, including vacuum‐tumbling and ultrasound‐assisted dry curing (UDC) at 300/800 W for 30/60 min. Pork belly was evenly smeared with 1.5% of salt and evaluated by examining the NaCl infiltration, porcine tissue microstructure, protein solubilization, water distribution, sensory quality, and textural characteristic of bacon. The results showed that both UDC and tumbling could significantly (P＜0.05) promote salt infiltration in meat compared with static dry‐curing. UDC for 60 min at 300 W caused favorable changes of the texture and sensory quality of reduced‐sodium bacon due to UDC‐induced destruction of tissue structures, solubilization, and limited exudate of myofibrillar proteins, increased penetration of salt, and synchronous accumulation of both proteins and sodium ion on the layer. It is suggested that a moderate UDC treatment is a potential practical technique for improving the quality of sodium‐reduced bacon. Practical applications: UDC and tumbling could significantly promote NaCl infiltration in meat. Moderate UDC caused favorable texture and sensory quality of reduced‐sodium bacon via promoting the tissue destruction, solubilization and limited exudate of proteins. It is implied that UDC is a potential practical technique for improving the quality of low‐salt bacon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavor loss from sodium reduction is a large challenge faced in the meat industry. The effects of salt mixture (KCl: CaCl2 = 1:1, w/w) content (0%–1.0%) on flavor of reduced‐sodium (1.5% NaCl) restructured bacon with ultrasound treatment (UT, 600 w for 30 min) were investigated. The results showed that 0.5% salt mixture (0.25% KCl and 0.25% CaCl2) could significantly (p <.05) enhance the lipid oxidation, the protein oxidation, and the formation of free amino acids of reduced‐sodium UT‐restructured bacon and could also markedly (p <.05) improve its flavor and the overall quality of sensory evaluation via promoting the release of five kinds of volatile phenolic compounds (o‐cresol, m‐cresol, 2‐methoxy‐phenol, 2‐methoxy‐4‐methylphenol, and 2‐methoxy‐5‐methylphenol) and the formation of five kinds of volatile aldehyde compounds (hexanal, nonanal, decanal, furfural, and 5‐methyl furfural). It is interesting to understand the mechanism for the effect of salt mixture on flavor and to efficiently develop a technique for improving the flavor of reduced‐sodium products in the meat industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The water holding capacity (WHC) of sodium‐reduced (0.3 m sodium chloride, corresponding to the salt percentage (w/v) of 1.755%) myofibrillar protein (MP) gel in response to combined calcium chloride (CaCl2, 20, 60, 100 mm) and high‐pressure processing (HPP, 200 MPa, 10 min) was investigated. The results showed that 200 MPa + 20 mm CaCl2 synergistically increased the WHC of MP gel via reducing particle size of MP solutions, strengthening hydrogen‐bonding and disulphide‐bonding, promoting formation of β‐sheet and uncoiling of α‐helix, exposing tryptophan residues, enhancing hydrophobic interactions of aliphatic residues and forming a compact and continuous networked gel structure. However, high concentrations (≥60 mm) of CaCl2 could attenuate the enhancing effects of HPP on the WHC by inducing decreased hydrogen bonds, fewer tryptophan residues exposed and coarser and aggregated gel structures with large cavities. Therefore, a combined moderate HPP and low concentration of CaCl2 is a potential alternative for developing sodium‐reduced meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of resistant corn starch (RCS) (0.1–0.6% w/w) on the water-holding capacity (WHC) and gel strength of chicken breast myosin were investigated. The results showed that RCS could successively increase the WHC and gel strength of myosin-RCS gels (P < 0.05) with an elevating concentration of 0.1–0.6% RCS. The hydrophilicity of RCS and the shrinking mobility of inner water in the gels were responsible for increased WHC. The swelling-induced active filling and the enhanced cross-linking between the myosin tail and RCS could promote the formation of a continuous, compact and homogeneous gel network with elevated RCS (0.2–0.6%), as well as increased storage modulus (G ′), thus resulting in reinforced gel strength. The heat-induced conformational transition from β -sheet to α -helix could also improve the WHC and gel strength. It is promising to use RCS as a fat substitute in the development of novel low-fat meat products with potential physiological benefits in industry. Image 1 • RCS (0.1–0.6% w/w) successively improved the WHC and strength of myosin-RCS gels. • The hydrophilicity of RCS and a lower relaxation lead to a higher WHC. • The active filling and enhanced cross-linking result in a stronger gel strength. • It is promising to use RCS for developing low-fat meat product with healthy function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Aqueous phase recycling of sewage sludge hydrothermal carbonization was investigated. • The O/C and H/C atomic ratios revealed that dehydration was the main reaction during hydrothermal carbonization. • The pH value step increased with increasing recycling number, indicating that aqueous phase acted as a catalyst. • The organic matter recovery from the aqueous phase influenced on the combustion property of hydrochar. In this study, the aqueous phase produced from the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of sewage sludge (SS) with pure water was reused for the HTC of fresh SS, aiming to maximize energy recovery from the aqueous phase. The aqueous phase was recycled four times. The effects of aqueous phase recycling on the properties of the aqueous phase and hydrochar produced at temperatures of 200, 230, and 260 °C were studied. The hydrochar yield always decreased with increasing temperature regardless of whether the aqueous phase was recycled. The C and N contents and higher heating values of the hydrochars produced with aqueous phase recycling were all higher than that of the hydrochar produced with pure water and slightly increased as the number of recycling times increased. The O/C and H/C atomic ratios of the hydrochars revealed that dehydration was the main reaction pathway during HTC of SS. The pH value of the aqueous phase increased as the number of recycling times increased, indicating that the concentration of NH 4 +-N in the aqueous phase increased. The process of aqueous phase recycling affected the carbonization of the hydrochar. These results suggest that aqueous phase recycling was favorable for energy recovery from the aqueous phase produced from the HTC of SS and for improving the combustion properties of the hydrochar. Thus, we believe that aqueous phase recycling was a promising strategy for energy recovery, aqueous phase disposal, and the production of high-quality hydrochar with respect to the HTC of SS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effects of high pressure processing (HPP) (0–400 MPa for 10 min, 0–20 min under 300 MPa) on the water holding capacity (WHC) and gel strength of chicken breast myosin containing 0.225% κ-carrageenan (W/V, 2.25 g/L relative to myosin solution) (myosin-K) and the thermal gelling mechanism were investigated. The results revealed that HPP at 100–400 MPa could significantly increase the WHC of myosin-K gels while decreasing the gel strength (P < 0.05). The turbidity, surface hydrophobicity and reactive sulfhydryl contents of the pressurized myosin-K increased significantly at 200–400 MPa (P < 0.05). Dynamic rheological measurements indicated that the thermal gelling ability of the pressurized myosin-K matrix gradually decreased as the pressure increased (100–400 MPa). Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance data suggested that HPP at 100–400 MPa might shorten the water relaxation time of the gel. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy data revealed that the hydrogen bonding interactions in the gels might weaken when subjected to 100–300 MPa but could be enhanced at 400 MPa. The scanning electron microscopy images revealed that HPP (300 MPa, 10 min) produced a dense, networked myosin-K gel structure with small cavities and thin cross-linked strands. Moreover, pressure levels were responsible for the above results. The protein in myosin-K could denature, unfold and aggregate under HPP (100–400 MPa), thus decreasing the thermal gelling ability of myosin-K matrix. The high WHC of the pressurized myosin-K gel was attributed to the enhanced hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, as well as the uniform and dense networked structure; the low gel strength might be ascribed to the low thermal gelling ability of pressurized myosin-K. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Among the edible species, jellyfish Rhopilema esculentum, is one of the most abundant and important fishery species in China. The jellyfish fishery is characterized by considerable fluctuations in catch and a very short fishing season. In this article, we first review the research results on the biology of R. esculentum, which previously were published in Chinese, as related to the jellyfish enhancement and fishery. Next, we review results from enhancement experiments conducted from 1984 to 2004, with the aims of stabilizing and increasing catch. During 2005 and 2006, stock enhancement of R. esculentum was carried out on a large scale for the first time in Liaodong Bay, China, where 414 million juvenile jellyfish (umbrella diameter > 1 cm) were released. We present results of these enhancements, including the survey methods, catch prediction, enhancement assessment, and fishery management. In 2005 and 2006, the recapture rate of released jellyfish was 3.0 and 3.2%, respectively. The fishermen earned ¥ 159 million during the 2 years. The ratio of the input (cost of culturing juvenile jellyfish) to the output (value of the sales) was about 1:18. The high commercial value of R. esculentum enhancement in Liaodong Bay makes this a very successful enterprise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• LXA4 against HI brain damage by protecting the integrity of blood–brain barrier. • LXA4 reduces neuronal apoptosis following HI brain damage in neonatal rats. • LXA4 exerts a neuroprotective effect via the IκB/NF-κB pathway in neonatal rats. Hypoxia and the resultant decreases in cerebral blood flow in the perinatal period can lead to neonatal hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury, which can, in turn, cause severe disability or even death. However, the efficacy of current treatment strategies remains limited. Several studies have demonstrated that lipoxin A4 (LXA4), as one of the earliest types of endogenous lipid mediators, can inhibit the accumulation of neutrophils, arrest inflammation, and promote the resolution of inflammation. However, research on LXA4 in the nervous system has rarely been carried out. In the present study, we sought to investigate the protective effect of LXA4 on HI brain damage in neonatal rats, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Through experiments conducted using an HI animal model, we found that the LXA4 intervention promoted the recovery of neuronal function and tissue structure following brain injury while maintaining the integrity of the blood–brain barrier in addition to reducing cerebral edema, infarct volume, and inflammatory responses. Our results suggest that LXA4 interfered with neuronal oxygen-glucose deprivation insults, reduced the expression of inflammatory factors, inhibited apoptosis, and promoted neuronal survival in vitro. Finally, the LXA4 intervention attenuated HI-induced activation of inhibitor kappa B (IκB) and degradation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In conclusion, our data suggest that LXA4 exerts a neuroprotective effect against neonatal HI brain damage through the IκB/NF-κB pathway. Our findings will help inform future studies regarding the effects of LXA4 on neuroinflammation, blood–brain barrier integrity, and neuronal apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, zein/carboxymethyl dextrin nanoparticles (ZCPs) were used as stabilizers to prepare Pickering emulsions. The contact angle (θ) of ZCPs with a mass ratio of 2:1 (zein:CMD) was 89.1°, which was suitable for stabilizing Pickering emulsions. The droplet sizes of ZCPs stabilized Pickering emulsions were dependent on particle concentration and oil volume fraction. The droplet sizes of emulsions decreased with increasing particle concentration at a constant oil volume fraction, and increased as the oil volume fraction increased fixing particle concentration. Visual observation indicated that ZCPs stabilized Pickering emulsions at various particle concentrations and oil fractions were stable during long-term storage. The rheological measurements indicated that all emulsions exhibited shear thinning behavior and the elastic gel-like structure. Furthermore, the viscosity and gel-like structure were relied on ZCPs concentrations and oil volume fractions. Confocal laser scanning microscope showed that ZCPs formed the densely packed layer around the oil droplets. ZCPs stabilized Pickering emulsions significantly inhibited lipid oxidation compared to zein nanoparticles stabilized emulsions. In vitro digestion study suggested that the free fatty acids (FFA) released, bioaccessibility and stability of curcumin in ZCPs stabilized Pickering emulsions were higher than those in bulk oil and zein nanoparticles stabilized emulsions. These researches might facilitate the preparation of Pickering emulsions with excellent stability for nutraceutical delivery in food and pharmaceutical applications. Image 1 • Zein/carboxymethyl dextrin nanoparticles (ZCPs) were fabricated as effective stabilizers. • Pickering emulsions stabilized by ZCPs had superior storage stability. • Pickering emulsions stabilized by ZCPs significantly inhibited lipid oxidation. • The presence of carboxymethyl dextrin improved bioaccessibility of curcumin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The maximum WHC and gel strength of pressurized MP-Ca occurred at 200 MPa. • HPP (≤200 MPa) increased the solubility and reduced aggregation ability of MP. • HPP (>200 MPa) induced disulfide cross-linking of myosin S-1. • The results are helpful for regulating the properties of reduced-sodium meat gel. The improvement mechanism of high pressure processing (HPP, 100–300 MPa, 10 min) on the gelation properties of reduced-sodium (0.3 M sodium chloride) myofibrillar protein containing 20 mM CaCl 2 (MP-Ca) were explored. The results showed that the water holding capacity (WHC) and strength of MP-Ca gel reached the maximum values under 200 MPa. This was attributed to substantial solubilization of myosin heavy chain and actin, a decreased protein aggregation ability and the exposure of both tyrosine and tryptophan residues resulting from the unfolding of the protein tertiary structure. However, 300 MPa induced the hydrophobic rearrangement of MP and the disulfide cross-linking of the myosin S-1 subfragment, leading to the formation of large protein aggregates and decreased solubility of MP, thus resulting in a weaker gel with a reduced WHC. Therefore, moderate HPP (approximately 200 MPa) and low concentrations of CaCl 2 could potentially improve the gelation properties of reduced-sodium meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: To assess the reproducibility of HR-MRI for the identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and quantification of stenosis. Materials and methods: Seventy-three consecutive subjects who initially had ischemic stroke or asymptomatic MCA stenosis (>50%) were enrolled in the study. All subjects were scanned using 3.0T MRI. Two independent readers reviewed all images and one reader reevaluated all images four weeks later. The tissue components of plaques were analyzed qualitatively and the vessels were quantitative measured. Results: HR-MRI displayed the artery wall and lumen clearly. The intra-observer reproducibility was excellent for the identification of plaques (kappa [κ]=0.96; 95% CI: 0.83–1.04) and contrast enhancement (κ =0.89; 0.78–0.95); it was substantial for intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ =0.79; 0.57–0.96) and the fibrous cap (κ =0.65; 0.42–0.86). The inter-observer reproducibility was excellent for plaques (κ =0.92; 0.73–1.06), substantial for contrast enhancement (κ =0.80; 0.65–0.93), intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ =0.68; 0.47–0.92) and moderate for the fibrous cap (κ =0.58; 0.44–0.79). Both intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility were excellent for quantitative vessel, lumen and wall measurements with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.91 to 0.97 and 0.87 to 0.96, respectively. However, vessel and wall areas and the intervals defined by the Bland–Altman plots were wide in comparison to the mean. Conclusions: The identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and the quantification of vessel and lumen measurements are reproducible. The reproducibility is overall acceptable. HR-MRI may provide a useful tool for clinical risk evaluation in MCA atherosclerosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: To investigate basilar artery atherosclerotic plaque distribution characteristics in symptomatic patients using 3.0T high-resolution MRI. Materials and methods: Thirty-eight patients with recent ischemic strokes or transient ischemic attacks were included. Conventional angiographic luminal imaging of these patients showed at least 30% basilar artery stenosis. Patients then underwent basilar artery high-resolution MRI examinations (T2WI, T1WI and post-contrast enhanced T1WI in short axial and long axial views). The narrowest lumen plaque distribution was evaluated by cross-section division into four equal arcs (right, ventral, left and dorsal arcs) on the short axial T2-weighted images. The percent plaque fraction was calculated as arc plaque area/luminal area×100, with each compared by analysis. Results: The basilar artery lumens and walls were clearly shown in all 38 patients. The median plaque area sizes were 2.73mm2 (range: 1.04–5.29mm2) on the ventral wall, 0.59mm2 (range: 0–1.50mm2) on the left wall, 0.87mm2 (range: 0–2.68mm2) on the dorsal wall, and 0.36mm2 (range: 0–1.80mm2) on the right wall. The mean plaque fraction percentages were 21.6% (range: 7.9–34.0%) on the ventral wall, 4.6% (range: 0–10.0%) on the left wall, 6.3% (range: 0–16.3%) on the dorsal wall, and 2.6% (range: 0–12.9%) on the right wall. On the ventral wall, the plaque fraction percentage was significantly greater than the remaining three arcs (P =.000). Conclusions: Basilar artery atherosclerotic plaques were mainly distributed at the ventral site of the artery. High-resolution MR examination may provide helpful information to minimize endovascular therapy risk complications in basilar artery atherosclerotic disease. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]