Application of a Carbon Fiber Microelectrode as a Sensor for Apocynin Electroanalysis

In this study, a carbon fiber microelectrode (CF) was applied for the investigation of the electrochemical behavior of the natural antioxidant, apocynin (APO). Given the limited solubility of APO in water, a mixture of anhydrous acetic acid (AcH) with 20%, v/v acetonitrile (AN) and 0.1 mol L-1 sodium acetate (AcNa) was used. The electrochemical properties of APO were examined through linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The anodic oxidation of APO, which is the basis of the method used, proved to be diffusion-controlled and proceeded with a two-electron and one proton exchange. Both radicals and radical cations, arising from the first and second step of electrode reactions, respectively, underwent subsequent chemical transformations to yield more stable final products (EqCiEiCi mechanism). Using optimized DPV conditions, the anodic peak current of APO at a potential of 0.925 V vs. Ag/AgCl showed a good linear response within the concentration range of 2.7 × 10-6-2.6 × 10-4 mol L-1. The detection and quantification limits were determined as 8.9 × 10-7 and 2.7 × 10-6 mol L-1, respectively. The developed DPV method enabled the successful determination of APO in herbal extracts and in dietary supplements. It should be noted that this is the first method to be used for voltammetric determination of APO.

Cobalt Oxide on Boron-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride as Bifunctional Photocatalysts for CO2 Reduction and Hydrogen Evolution

In this work, the prepared cobalt oxide decorated boron-doped g-C3N4 (CoOx/g-C3N4) heterojunction exhibits remarkable activity in CO2 reduction (CO2RR), resulting in high yields of CH3COOH (∼383 μmol·gcatalyst-1) and CH3OH (∼371 μmol·gcatalyst-1) with 58% selectivity to C2+ under visible light. However, the same system leads to high H2 evolution (HER) by increasing the cobalt oxide content, suggesting that the selectivity and preference for the CO2RR or HER depend on oxide decoration. By comparing HER and CO2RR evolution in the same system, this work provides critical insights into the catalytic mechanism, indicating that the CoOx/g-C3N4 heterojunction formation is necessary to foster high visible light photoactivity.

Catalyzed Hydrothermal Pretreatment of Oat Husks for Integrated Production of Furfural and Lignocellulosic Residue

This study presents a novel approach for biorefining oat husks into furfural, leveraging a unique pilot-scale setup. Unlike conventional furfural manufacturing processes, which often result in substantial cellulose degradation and environmental concerns associated with sulfuric acid usage, our method utilizes phosphoric acid as a catalyst to achieve high furfural yield while minimizing cellulose destruction. Drawing on our research conducted in a distinctive pilot-scale environment, we successfully developed and implemented a tailored biorefining process for oat husks. Through meticulous experimentation, we attained a remarkable furfural yield of 11.84% from oven-dried mass, accompanied by a 2.64% yield of acetic acid. Importantly, our approach significantly mitigated cellulose degradation, preserving 88.31% of the cellulose content in oat husks. Existing catalytic (H2SO4) furfural manufacturing processes often lead to substantial cellulose degradation (40-50%) in lignocellulosic leftover during the pretreatment stage. As a result of the research, it was also possible to reduce the destruction of cellulose in the lignocellulose leftover to 11.69% of the output (initial) cellulose of oat husks. This research underscores the feasibility and sustainability of utilizing oat husks as a valuable feedstock for furfural production, highlighting the potential of phosphoric acid as a catalyst in biorefining processes. By showcasing our unique pilot-scale methodology, this study contributes to advancing the field of environmentally friendly biorefining technologies.

PECTIN ACETYLESTERASE12 regulates shoot branching via acetic acid and auxin accumulation in alfalfa shoots

Shoot branching is an important biological trait affecting alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production, but its development is complicated and the mechanism is not fully clear. In the present study, pectin acetylesterase 12 (MsPAE12) and NAM/ATAF/CUC-domain transcription factor gene (MsNAC73) were isolated from alfalfa. MsPAE12 was highly expressed in shoot apexes, and MsNAC73 was found to be a key transcriptional repressor of MsPAE12 by directly binding to SA and JA elements in the MsPAE12 promoter. The biological functions of MsPAE12 and MsNAC73 were studied through overexpression (OE) and down-expression (RNAi) of the two genes in alfalfa. The numbers of shoot branches increased in MsPAE12-OE lines but decreased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants, which was negatively related to their indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) accumulation in shoot apexes. Furthermore, the contents of acetic acid (AA) in shoot apexes decreased in MsPAE12-OE plants but increased in MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants. The changes of AA contents were positively related to the expression of TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE 1 (MsTAA1), TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE-RELATED 2 (MsTAR2) and YUCCA flavin monooxygenase (MsYUCC4) and the contents of tryptophan (Trp), indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPA) and IAA in shoot apexes of MsPAE12-OE, MsPAE12-RNAi and MsNAC73-OE plants. Exogenous application of AA to WT and MsPAE12-OE plants increased Trp, IPA and IAA contents and decreased branch number. Exogenous IAA suppressed shoot branching in MsPAE12-OE plants, but exogenous IAA inhibitors increased shoot branching in MsPAE12-RNAi plants. These results indicate that the MsNAC73-MsPAE12 module regulates auxin-modulated shoot branching via affecting acetic acid accumulation in shoot apexes of alfalfa.

Acetic Acid: An Underestimated Metabolite in Ethanol-Induced Changes in Regulating Cardiovascular Function

Acetic acid is a bioactive short-chain fatty acid produced in large quantities from ethanol metabolism. In this review, we describe how acetic acid/acetate generates oxidative stress, alters the function of pre-sympathetic neurons, and can potentially influence cardiovascular function in both humans and rodents after ethanol consumption. Our recent findings from in vivo and in vitro studies support the notion that administration of acetic acid/acetate generates oxidative stress and increases sympathetic outflow, leading to alterations in arterial blood pressure. Real-time investigation of how ethanol and acetic acid/acetate modulate neural control of cardiovascular function can be conducted by microinjecting compounds into autonomic control centers of the brain and measuring changes in peripheral sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure in response to these compounds.

PNPLA3 Genotype and Dietary Fat Modify Concentrations of Plasma and Fecal Short Chain Fatty Acids and Plasma Branched-Chain Amino Acids

The GG genotype of the Patatin-like phosphatase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3), dietary fat, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are linked with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. We studied the impact of the quality of dietary fat on plasma (p) and fecal (f) SCFA and p-BCAA in men homozygous for the PNPLA3 rs738409 variant (I148M). Eighty-eight randomly assigned men (age 67.8 ± 4.3 years, body mass index 27.1 ± 2.5 kg/m2) participated in a 12-week diet intervention. The recommended diet (RD) group followed the National and Nordic nutrition recommendations for fat intake. The average diet (AD) group followed the average fat intake in Finland. The intervention resulted in a decrease in total p-SCFAs and iso-butyric acid in the RD group (p = 0.041 and p = 0.002). Valeric acid (p-VA) increased in participants with the GG genotype regardless of the diet (RD, 3.6 ± 0.6 to 7.0 ± 0.6 µmol/g, p = 0.005 and AD, 3.8 ± 0.3 to 9.7 ± 8.5 µmol/g, p = 0.015). Also, genotype relation to p-VA was seen statistically significantly in the RD group (CC: 3.7 ± 0.4 to 4.2 ± 1.7 µmol/g and GG: 3.6 ± 0.6 to 7.0 ± 0.6 µmol/g, p = 0.0026 for time and p = 0.004 for time and genotype). P-VA, unlike any other SCFA, correlated positively with plasma gamma-glutamyl transferase (r = 0.240, p = 0.025). Total p-BCAAs concentration changed in the AD group comparing PNPLA3 CC and GG genotypes (CC: 612 ± 184 to 532 ± 149 µmol/g and GG: 587 ± 182 to 590 ± 130 µmol/g, p = 0.015 for time). Valine decreased in the RD group (p = 0.009), and leucine decreased in the AD group (p = 0.043). RD decreased total fecal SCFA, acetic acid (f-AA), and butyric acid (f-BA) in those with CC genotype (p = 0.006, 0.013 and 0.005, respectively). Our results suggest that the PNPLA3 genotype modifies the effect of dietary fat modification for p-VA, total f-SCFA, f-AA and f-BA, and total p-BCAA.

Accidental ingestion of concentrated white vinegar in Hatay children in Turkey

White vinegar which contains high concentrations (~85 %) of acetic acid is a staple ingredient used in food preparation in many Mediterranean cuisines but in small amounts. Being corrosive, it can cause ulcerative injury to the oropharynx and oesophagus and upset the stomach with resulting nausea and vomiting. This study presents 11 cases of paediatric patients (five boys and six girls, aged between 11 and 89 months) with oesophageal strictures who drank white vinegar by accident. They all received endoscopic oesophageal dilation (with a bougie) ranging from one to 28 per patient, depending on the severity of the injury. Follow-up showed uneventful healing in eight patients, who at the time of the telephone call were able to swallow solids and liquids normally. Two patients who could not be reached by telephone were found healthy by consulting the national database (e-Nabız). Unfortunately, one patient, who was discharged without any symptoms after the first dilation, suffered massive gastrointestinal bleeding 24 hours after the dilation and died. The loss of this patient shows that ingesting white vinegar can be very dangerous in children, especially if parents delay seeking medical help. We believe that controlling the production and sales of highly concentrated white vinegar and selling it in child-proof containers can help to prevent accidental ingestions by children and tragic outcomes such as the one reported here.

Fermented Tea as a Food with Functional Value-Its Microbiological Profile, Antioxidant Potential and Phytochemical Composition

Kombucha is a fermented tea drink produced by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, known as SCOBY. Its base has traditionally been black tea, which has been recognized for its health-promoting properties, particularly its antioxidant activity based on its high content of pol-yphenolic compounds. A number of previous studies have demonstrated the equally favourable biochemical and phytochemical composition of green tea. The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the basic biochemical composition, microbiological composition and antioxidant properties of black and green tea-based Kombucha. The green tea-based Kombucha showed a quantitatively more abundant microbial composition (Lactic Acid Bacteria, Acetobacter sp., Yeast), a higher reducing potential (FRAP-4326.58 Fe(II)µM/L) and a higher content of total polyphenols (23.84 mg GAE/100 mL, reducing sugars (3212.00 mg/100 mL) as well as free amino acids (849.00 mg GLY/mL). Kombucha made from black tea, on the other hand, showed a higher anti-oxidant potential (1.17 Trolox (mM) TEAC), neutralising the DPPH radical at 94.33% and ABTS at 97.74%. It also had a higher level of acetic acid (0.08 g/100 mL). Green tea kombucha had a higher scavenging capacity of 90.6% for superoxide radical (O2-) and 69.28% for hydroxyl radical (·OH) than black tea kombucha. In the present study, both kombucha drinks tested were shown to be source of potent antioxidants. In addition, green tea, as a kombucha base, has proven to be as beneficial a raw material that will provide full nutritional and health-promoting values as traditional kombucha.

Comparison of the efficacy of 5% versus 8% acetic acid concentrations for detecting premalignant and malignant lesions in colposcopy

Although preventable; cervical cancer remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in developing countries; thus, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent its development into invasive cancer. Based on the screening results, diagnostic colposcopy was performed to evaluate women with abnormal Papinocalaou test results, high-risk human papillomavirus DNA positivity, or suspected cervical cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the optimal acetic acid concentration (5% or 8%) for detecting cervical precancerous/cancerous lesions during colposcopy evaluation. This study included 607 patients admitted to our obstetrics and gynecology clinic. The medical records of the patients were obtained from the colposcopy registry in the hospital information system and retrospectively analyzed. The cases were divided into 2 groups according to the acetic acid concentrations (5% and 8%) used during colposcopy and examined. The duration of acetic acid application was 2 to 4 minutes. The probability of developing ≥ CIN2 was low in patients with negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy smear results in both groups, but increased in the high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions/atypical squamous cells group with the 8% acetic acid concentration (P < .0001; P = .012). The probabilities of pathological detection of ≥ CIN2 in the 5% and 8% acetic acid groups were 17.3% and 46.6%, respectively (P < .0001). The enhancement of the efficiency of colposcopy should focus on improving the detectability of precancerous lesions. Given that this study compared the effectiveness of acetic acid concentration in colposcopy diagnostics, it can be considered a leading study in this field.

Draft genome of Lysinibacillus fusiformis PwPw_T2 isolated from Ananas comosus revealing acetic acid producing and xenobiotic degrading enzymes

Lysinibacillus fusiformis PwPw_T2 isolated from deteriorating Ananas comosus sample collected from Lagos State, Nigeria putatively possesses genomic features like potential enzymes catalyzing acetic acid production and xenobiotic compounds degradation via various pathways as indicated by its genome sequences. These could make the organism relevant in food waste valorization and micro-biotechnology.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms of Acetic Acid Reduction by Adding NaHSO3 in Actinobacillus succinogenes GXAS137

Acetic acid (AC) is a major by-product from fermentation processes for producing succinic acid (SA) using Actinobacillus succinogenes. Previous experiments have demonstrated that sodium bisulfate (NaHSO3) can significantly decrease AC production by A. succinogenes GXAS137 during SA fermentation. However, the mechanism of AC reduction is poorly understood. In this study, the transcriptional profiles of the strain were compared through Illumina RNA-seq to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 210 DEGs were identified by expression analysis: 83 and 127 genes up-regulated and down-regulated, respectively, in response to NaHSO3 treatment. The functional annotation analysis of DEGs showed that the genes were mainly involved in carbohydrates, inorganic ions, amino acid transport, metabolism, and energy production and conversion. The mechanisms of AC reduction might be related to two aspects: (i) the lipoic acid synthesis pathway (LipA, LipB) was significantly down-regulated, which blocked the pathway catalyzed by pyruvate dehydrogenase complex to synthesize acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) from pyruvate; (ii) the expression level of the gene encoding bifunctional acetaldehyde-alcohol dehydrogenase was significantly up-regulated, and this effect facilitated the synthesis of ethanol from acetyl-CoA. However, the reaction of NaHSO3 with the intermediate metabolite acetaldehyde blocked the production of ethanol and consumed acetyl-CoA, thereby decreasing AC production. Thus, our study provides new insights into the molecular mechanism of AC decreased underlying the treatment of NaHSO3 and will deepen the understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms of A. succinogenes.

Lactobacillus paracasei Relieves Constipation by Acting on the Acetic Acid-5-HT-Intestinal Motility Pathway

Constipation is a major health concern worldwide and requires effective and safe treatment options. In this study, we selected ten strains of two species of lactobacilli to identify whether they were effective against constipation induced by loperamide administration in BALB/c mice. Monitoring of constipation-related indicators indicated that Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei) mainly acted on the whole intestinal peristalsis to relieve constipation. Furthermore, through the detection of biological, chemical, mechanical, and immune barriers in mice, it was discovered that L. paracasei changed the relative abundance of bacteria related to the levels of acetic acid and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (such as by increasing the relative abundance of Odoribacter and Clostridium, and reducing the relative abundance of Mucispirillum, Ruminococcus, Coprobacillus, and Dorea), increased the concentration of acetic acid in the intestine, which stimulated enterochromaffin cells, promoted 5-HT synthesis in the colon, enhanced intestinal motility, and relieved constipation. In conclusion, this study provides a theoretical foundation for the development of personalized products for the treatment of constipation.

An Evolved Strain of the Oleaginous Yeast Rhodotorula toruloides, Multi-Tolerant to the Major Inhibitors Present in Lignocellulosic Hydrolysates, Exhibits an Altered Cell Envelope

The presence of toxic compounds in lignocellulosic hydrolysates (LCH) is among the main barriers affecting the efficiency of lignocellulose-based fermentation processes, in particular, to produce biofuels, hindering the production of intracellular lipids by oleaginous yeasts. These microbial oils are promising sustainable alternatives to vegetable oils for biodiesel production. In this study, we explored adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE), under methanol- and high glycerol concentration-induced selective pressures, to improve the robustness of a Rhodotorula toruloides strain, previously selected to produce lipids from sugar beet hydrolysates by completely using the major C (carbon) sources present. An evolved strain, multi-tolerant not only to methanol but to four major inhibitors present in LCH (acetic acid, formic acid, hydroxymethylfurfural, and furfural) was isolated and the mechanisms underlying such multi-tolerance were examined, at the cellular envelope level. Results indicate that the evolved multi-tolerant strain has a cell wall that is less susceptible to zymolyase and a decreased permeability, based on the propidium iodide fluorescent probe, in the absence or presence of those inhibitors. The improved performance of this multi-tolerant strain for lipid production from a synthetic lignocellulosic hydrolysate medium, supplemented with those inhibitors, was confirmed.

Midgut microbiota affects the intestinal barrier by producing short-chain fatty acids in Apostichopus japonicus

Introduction

The intestinal microbiota participates in host physiology and pathology through metabolites, in which short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are considered principal products and have extensive influence on intestine homeostasis. It has been reported that skin ulceration syndrome (SUS), the disease of Apostichopus japonicus caused by Vibrio splendidus, is associated with the alteration of the intestinal microbiota composition.

Method

To investigate whether the intestinal microbiota affects A. japonicus health via SCFAs, in this study, we focus on the SCFA profiling and intestinal barrier function in A. japonicus treated with V. splendidus.

Results and discussion

We found that V. splendidus could destroy the mid-intestine integrity and downregulate the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin in A. japonicus, which further dramatically decreased microorganism abundance and altered SCFAs contents. Specifically, acetic acid is associated with the largest number of microorganisms and has a significant correlation with occludin and ZO-1 among the seven SCFAs. Furthermore, our findings showed that acetic acid could maintain the intestinal barrier function by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins and rearranging the tight junction structure by regulating F-actin in mid-intestine epithelial cells. Thus, our results provide insights into the effects of the gut microbiome and SCFAs on intestine barrier homeostasis and provide essential knowledge for intervening in SUS by targeting metabolites or the gut microbiota.

Enhanced Enzymatic Sugar Recovery of Dilute-Acid-Pretreated Corn Stover by Sodium Carbonate Deacetylation

The prehydrolysate from dilute acid pretreatment of lignocellulosic feedstocks often contains inhibitory compounds that can seriously inhibit the subsequent enzymatic and fermentation processes. Acetic acid is one of the most representative toxic compounds. In this research, alkaline deacetylation of corn stover was carried out using sodium carbonate under mild conditions to selectively remove the acetyl groups of the biomass and reduce the toxicity of the prehydrolysate. The deacetylation process was optimized by adjusting factors such as temperature, treatment time, and sodium carbonate concentration. Sodium carbonate solutions (2~6 wt%) at 30~50 °C were used for the deacetylation step, followed by dilute acid pretreatment with 1.5% H2SO4 at 121 °C. Results showed that the acetyl content of the treated corn stover could be reduced up to 87%, while the hemicellulose loss remained low. The optimal deacetylation condition was found to be 40 °C, 6 h, and 4 wt% Na2CO3, resulting in a removal of 80.55% of the acetyl group in corn stover and a hemicellulose loss of 4.09%. The acetic acid concentration in the acid prehydrolysate decreased from 1.38 to 0.34 g/L. The enzymatic hydrolysis of solid corn stover and the whole slurry after pretreatment increased by 17% and 16%, respectively.

Development and Validation of a New Method for Detecting Acetic Bacteria in Wine

In winemaking, excessive production of acetic acid by acetic acid bacteria poses a major challenge, leading to rejection of wine by consumers. The aim of this study was to devise an economically viable and easy-to-use liquid culture medium for the preventive detection of microorganisms capable of generating acetic acid in wine. The modified medium incorporated specific nutrients that favored the growth of acetic acid bacteria and increased selectivity. Under varying conditions and with different types of wine, this medium was tested together with inoculated samples, comparing the occurrence of acetic acid and olfaction. The result was a new liquid medium based on olfactometry, designed to facilitate its use in wineries, even by untrained personnel and without the need for complex laboratory equipment. Validation was carried out on a variety of wines, determining the onset of the presence of acetic acid in the medium. This innovative culture medium provides a means to estimate the concentration of micro-organisms capable of producing acetic acid in wine. Its application in wineries facilitates proactive decision making, avoiding undesirable increases in acetic acid concentration.

Expression of p53 in toluidine blue positive oral squamous cell carcinoma lesions and expression of Ki67 in vinegar positive oral squamous cell carcinoma lesions

The aims of this study were to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of toluidine blue and/or vinegar in oral cancer screening and to examine the correlation between clinical screening using toluidine blue and vinegar and the expression of the tumor marker p53 and proliferation marker Ki67, respectively. The study consisted of 87 patients with suspected oral squamous cell carcinoma lesions. Toluidine blue and/or vinegar were applied to the lesions, followed by biopsies. The tissues were diagnosed histopathologically and underwent immunohistochemical process for p53 or Ki67. The results revealed that the sensitivity and specificity of oral cancer screening using toluidine blue were 93% and 46%, respectively; whereas the sensitivity and specificity using vinegar were 85% and 81%, respectively. A statistically significant correlation between the use of vinegar and the expression of Ki67 (p = 0.019) was observed. Although there was a difference in the expression of p53 between specimens that were positive and negative to toluidine blue, the correlation did not reach a significant level. Based on the results from this study, vinegar has a lower sensitivity than toluidine blue but a higher specificity for oral cancer screening. The results of the clinical screening using vinegar correlated with the expression of Ki67 at the cellular level.

Investigation of the acetic acid stress response in Saccharomyces cerevisiae with mutated H3 residues

Enhanced levels of acetic acid reduce the activity of yeast strains employed for industrial fermentation-based applications. Therefore, unraveling the genetic factors underlying the regulation of the tolerance and sensitivity of yeast towards acetic acid is imperative for optimising various industrial processes. In this communication, we have attempted to decipher the acetic acid stress response of the previously reported acetic acid-sensitive histone mutants. Revalidation using spot-test assays and growth curves revealed that five of these mutants, viz., H3K18Q, H3S28A, H3K42Q, H3Q68A, and H3F104A, are most sensitive towards the tested acetic acid concentrations. These mutants demonstrated enhanced acetic acid stress response as evidenced by the increased expression levels of AIF1, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, chromatin fragmentation, and aggregated actin cytoskeleton. Additionally, the mutants exhibited active cell wall damage response upon acetic acid treatment, as demonstrated by increased Slt2-phosphorylation and expression of cell wall integrity genes. Interestingly, the mutants demonstrated increased sensitivity to cell wall stress-causing agents. Finally, screening of histone H3 N-terminal tail truncation mutants revealed that the tail truncations exhibit general sensitivity to acetic acid stress. Some of these N-terminal tail truncation mutants viz., H3 [del 1-24], H3 [del 1-28], H3 [del 9-24], and H3 [del 25-36] are also sensitive to cell wall stress agents such as Congo red and caffeine suggesting that their enhanced acetic acid sensitivity may be due to cell wall stress induced by acetic acid.

Biocompatible Alginate Hydrogel Film Containing Acetic Acid Manifests Broad-Spectrum Antiviral and Anticancer Activities

Acetic acid, a colourless liquid organic acid with a characteristic acrid smell, is obtained naturally and has applications in both the food and pharmaceutical industries. It has been reported to have beneficial uses for lifestyle-related diseases, and its efficient disinfectant properties are well known. In this study, an alginate crosslinked with Ca2+ hydrogel film was treated with acetic acid to explore its biological properties for biomedicine. The results showed that the novel calcium alginate/acetic acid film was biocompatible in vitro using human keratinocyte cells and in vivo with Caenorhabditis elegans. It also had antiviral properties against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and anticancer properties against melanoma and colon cancer cells. This novel film thus showed promise for the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, with applications for fabricating broad-spectrum antiviral and anticancer materials.

Influence of Thermal Treatment and Acetic Acid Concentration on the Electroactive Properties of Chitosan/PVA-Based Micro- and Nanofibers

This study presents, for the first time, a comprehensive investigation of the influence of pre- and post-fabrication parameters for the electroactive properties of electrospun chitosan/PVA-based micro- and nanofibers. Chitosan/PVA fibers were fabricated using electrospinning, characterized, and tested as electroactive materials. Solutions with different acetic acid contents (50, 60, 70, and 80 v/v%) were used, and the rheological properties of the solutions were analyzed. Characterization techniques, such as rheology, conductivity, optical microscopy, a thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, a tensile test, and FT-IR spectroscopy, were utilized. Fiber mats from the various solutions were thermally treated, and their electroactive behavior was examined under a constant electric potential (10 V) at different pHs (2-13). The results showed that fibers electrospun from 80% acetic acid had a lower electroactive response and dissolved quickly. However, thermal treatment improved the stability and electroactive response of all fiber samples, particularly the ones spun with 80% acetic acid, which exhibited a significant increase in speed displacement from 0 cm-1 (non-thermally treated) to 1.372 cm-1 (thermally treated) at a pH of 3. This study sheds light on the influence of pre- and post-fabrication parameters on the electroactive properties of chitosan/PVA fibers, offering valuable insights for the development of electroactive materials in various applications.

Direct Homogeneous Synthesis of Compounds with Two O Atoms and Long-Chain Hydrocarbons from CO and H2: Co-Ru/N-methylpyrrolidone Catalyst

The homogeneous acetic acid synthesis-type Ru-Co-Li/N-methylpyrrolidone catalyst for CO and H2 transformations has been studied at moderately high pressures. For 1CO:2H2, low acetic acid selectivity has been observed, along with remarkable methyl acetate selectivity, the absence of aldehydes and ethyl acetate and sharp deviations from the Anderson-Schultz-Flory distribution for both alcaohols and long-chain hydrocarbons. For 1CO:1H2 and slightly elevated pressure, acetic acid selectivity slightly increased, notable ethyl acetate formation was detected, and both long-chain hydrocarbons and alcohols disappeared. Hypotheses are discussed about the direct parallel formation of all observed product groups (hydrocarbons, alcohols, esters, and acetic acid) and hydrocarbon chain growth limitations according to the formed Ru-Co cluster size in the presence of the aforementioned catalytic system.

The Effects of Ethanol and Acetic acid on Behaviour of Extranidal Workers of the Narrow-Headed Ant Formica exsecta (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) during a Field Experiment

Ethanol addiction belongs to the most important problems encountered in the domain of human mental health. The research on the behavioural effects of exposure to/consumption of ethanol are investigated largely with the help of animal models that also include insects, mainly fruit flies and honeybees. The effects of ethanol on ant behaviour remain, however, little known. In the present field study, we investigated the behaviour of workers of the narrow-headed ant (Formica exsecta) displayed in the vicinity of cotton pads soaked in water or in water solutions of ethanol or acetic acid during 5 min tests (n = 30 tests in each group). Both ethanol and acetic acid induced significant modifications of ant locomotion, exploratory behaviour, self-grooming behaviour, and aggressive social behaviour. We confirmed that acetic acid is aversive for the ants, but ethanol enhances their exploratory behaviour. We also found out that field studies may document more types of responses to experimental compounds than laboratory ones, as the tested animals may also escape from aversive substances. Our findings documented a wide spectrum of behavioural effects of exposure to ethanol and acetic acid in a highly social animal species and broadened the general knowledge about behavioural responses to these compounds encountered in animals.

Intestinal acetic acid regulates the synthesis of sex pheromones in captive giant pandas

As a typical solitary animal, adult giant pandas rely on chemical signals (sex pheromones) to transmit reproductive information during oestrous. Although researchers have confirmed that the gut microbiota is related to the emission and reception of sex pheromones, there is no clear correlation between the gut microbes and the synthesis of sex pheromone of giant pandas, that is, which gut microbes and microbial metabolites are participate in the synthesis of giant panda's sex pheromone. As a mirror of gut microbiota, fecal microbiota can reflect the composition of gut microbiota and its interaction with host to some extent. The purpose of this study is to explore how the gut microbes affect the synthesis of sex pheromones in captive giant pandas by combining analysis of the fecal microbiome and metabolomics. The results of correlation and microbial function analysis show that intestinal microorganisms such as Veillonellaceae and Lactobacillilaceae are associated with the synthesis of short chain fatty acid (acetic acid) and volatile ester metabolites, such as 1-butanol, 3-methyl, acetate, acetic acid, hexyl ester and 3-hexen-1-ol, acetate, (Z). In summary, based on this study, we believe that volatile metabolites such as fecal acetate participate in the process of mate preference of captive giant pandas and affect their expression of natural mating behavior. The possible mechanism is that the gut microbes can promote the synthesis of key chemical signaling substances in perianal glands through mediated intermediate fecal metabolites, thus affecting the normal information exchange between giant pandas individuals. The results of this study have greatly enriched our understanding of gut microbes regulating the synthesis of sex pheromones in giant pandas.

Biocompatible Chitosan Films Containing Acetic Acid Manifested Potent Antiviral Activity against Enveloped and Non-Enveloped Viruses

Chitosan films were prepared by solvent casting using an acetic acid-based solution. The films that were developed contained 15.49% of acetic acid solution (10% v/v) and showed biocompatibility in vitro in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells and potent antiviral activity against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The results showed up to 99.98% and 99.92% viral inactivation against the phi 6 enveloped bacteriophage and MS2 non-enveloped bacteriophage, respectively, suggesting that this chitosan/acetic acid film is a promising material for biomedical applications that require biodegradable broad-spectrum antiviral materials.

Roseicella aerolata GB24T from bioaerosol attenuates Streptococcus pneumoniae-introduced inflammation through regulation of gut microbiota and acetic acid

Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) is the most common respiratory pathogen causing community-acquired pneumonia. Probiotics represent a new intervention target for Spn infection. Hence, the discovery and development of new potential probiotic strains are urgently needed. This study was designed to investigate the beneficial effect and mechanism of a new bacterium named Roseicella aerolata GB24T that antagonizes Spn at cellular and animal levels. The results revealed that GB24T strain inhibited the growth of Spn on sheep blood agar plates, forming inhibition circles with a diameter of 20 mm. In cultured bronchial epithelium transformed with Ad 12-SV40 2B (BEAS-2B) cells, Spn infection induced an elevation in the expression levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α to 4.289 ± 0.709, 5.587 ± 2.670, and 5.212 ± 0.772 folds compared to healthy controls, respectively. Moreover, pre-infection with GB24T for 1.5 h almost eliminated the cellular inflammation caused by Spn infection. Additionally, male Sprague-Dawley rats infected with Spn were randomly allocated into two groups: GB24T pre-infection and Spn infection groups, with healthy rats as control. GB24T significantly alleviated inflammatory lung injury caused by Spn infection, which was associated with obvious changes in the abundance of gut microbiota and a trend toward enhanced secretion of short-chain fatty acids, especially acetic acid. Acetic acid was validated to be effective in alleviating inflammation due to Spn infection in cellular assays. Together, these findings highlight that GB24T strain is an important protective feature in the respiratory tract.

Acetic acid positively modulates proline metabolism for mitigating PEG-mediated drought stress in Maize and Arabidopsis

Introduction

Osmotic imbalance is one of the major consequences of drought stress, negatively affecting plant growth and productivity. Acetic acid has modulatory roles in osmotic balance in plants; however, the mechanistic insights into acetic acid-mediated osmotic adjustment under drought stress remains largely unknown.

Methods

Here, we investigated how seed priming and seedling root treatment with acetic acid enabled maize plants overcoming polyethylene glycol (PEG)-induced drought effects.

Results

Maize seeds primed with acetic acid showed better growth performance when compared with unprimed seeds under PEG application. This growth performance was mainly attributed to improved growth traits, such as fresh weight, dry weight, length of shoots and roots, and several leaf spectral indices, including normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and chlorophyll absorption in reflectance index (MCARI). The levels of oxidative stress indicators hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) did not alter significantly among the treatments, but proline content as well as the expression of proline biosynthetic gene, Δ1-PYRROLINE-5-CARBOXYLATE SYNTHETASE 1 (P5CS1) was significantly elevated in plants receiving acetic acid under PEG-treatments. On the other hand, treating the seedlings root with acetic acid led to a significant recovery of maize plants from drought-induced wilting. Although growth traits remained unchanged among the treatments, the enhancement of leaf water content, photosynthetic rate, proline level, expression of P5CS1, and antioxidant enzyme activities along with reduced level of H2O2 and MDA in acetic acid-supplemented drought plants indicated a positive regulatory role of acetic acid in maize tolerance to drought. Moreover, the high expression of P5CS1 and the subsequent elevation of proline level upon acetic acid application were further validated using wild type and proline biosynthetic mutant p5cs1 of Arabidopsis. Results showed that acetic acid application enabled wild type plants to maintain better phenotypic appearance and recovery from drought stress than p5cs1 plants, suggesting a crosstalk between acetic acid and proline metabolism in plants under drought stress.

Discussion

Our results highlight the molecular and intrinsic mechanisms of acetic acid conferring plant tolerance to drought stress.

Exploring the ameliorative potential of Bacopa monnieri in acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis in mice

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of Bacopa monnieri in acetic-acid-induced ulcerative colitis in mice. Acetic acid (3%v/v, in 0.9% saline) was infused intrarectally to induce ulceration in mice. Administration of acetic acid resulted in severe inflammation of the colon along with an increase in the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity assessed on 7^th day. Treatment with Bacopa monnieri extract (20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg, p.o) and saponin-rich fraction (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg; p.o) for 7 days i.e. 2 days before and 5 days after acetic acid infusion, significantly attenuated the colonic inflammation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, it also reduced the MPO levels and the disease activity score as compared to the control group. It may be concluded that Bacopa monnieri has the potential for ameliorating acetic-acid-induced colitis and its saponin-rich fraction may be responsible for this effect.

Assessment of the safety of the feed additives acetic acid, calcium acetate and sodium diacetate for fish (FEFANA asbl)

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety of acetic acid, calcium acetate and sodium diacetate as technological feed additives (preservatives) for salmonids/fish. The additives are already authorised for use for all animal species other than fish. In previous opinions, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that a maximum concentration of 2,500 mg acetic acid/kg complete feed (or 1,000 mg/L water for drinking) was safe for poultry, pigs and pet animals. Ruminants were considered to exhibit a higher tolerance. Due to lack of data for salmonids, the Panel could not conclude on the safety of acetic acid and its salts for fish. The applicant has provided supplementary information consisting in a tolerance study in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and a literature search to support the safety of acetic acid in fish. Considering all the available information, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that acetic acid (and its salts by analogy) is considered safe for fish up to the maximum recommended supplementation level of 2,500 mg acetic acid/kg complete feed.

Short-chain fatty acids profile in patients with SARS-CoV-2: A case-control study

Background and Aims

SARS-CoV-2, as a new pandemic disease, affected the world. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetic, propionic, and butyric acids are the main metabolites of human gut microbiota. The positive effects of SCFAs have been shown in infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, influenza, and rhinovirus. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the concentration of SCFAs in patients with SARS-CoV-2 compared with the healthy group.

Methods

This research was designed based on a case and control study. Twenty healthy individuals as the control group and 20 persons admitted to the hospital with a positive test of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) real-time polymerase chain reaction were included in the study as the patient group from September 2021 to October 2021, in Tabriz, Iran. Stool specimens were collected from volunteers, and analysis of SCFAs was carried out by a high-performance liquid chromatography system.

Results

The amount of acetic acid in the healthy group was 67.88 ± 23.09 μmol/g, while in the group of patients with COVID-19 was 37.04 ± 13.29 μmol/g. Therefore, the concentration of acetic acid in the patient group was significantly (p < 0.001) lower than in the healthy group. Propionic and butyric acid were present in a higher amount in the control group compared with the case group; however, this value was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This study showed that the concentration of acetic acid as the metabolite caused by gut microbiota is significantly disturbed in patients with COVID-19. Therefore, therapeutic interventions based on gut microbiota metabolites in future research may be effective against COVID-19.

Photodynamic Therapy, Probiotics, Acetic Acid, and Essential Oil in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds Infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa

As a prevalent medical problem that burdens millions of patients across the world, chronic wounds pose a challenge to the healthcare system. These wounds, often existing as a comorbidity, are vulnerable to infections. Consequently, infections hinder the healing process and complicate clinical management and treatment. While antibiotic drugs remain a popular treatment for infected chronic wounds, the recent rise of antibiotic-resistant strains has hastened the need for alternative treatments. Future impacts of chronic wounds are likely to increase with aging populations and growing obesity rates. With the need for more effective novel treatments, promising research into various wound therapies has seen an increased demand. This review summarizes photodynamic therapy, probiotics, acetic acid, and essential oil studies as developing antibiotic-free treatments for chronic wounds infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Clinicians may find this review informative by gaining a better understanding of the state of current research into various antibiotic-free treatments. Furthermore. this review provides clinical significance, as clinicians may seek to implement photodynamic therapy, probiotics, acetic acid, or essential oils into their own practice.

Fermentation-mediated growth, signaling, and defense in plants

While traditionally considered important mainly in hypoxic roots during flooding, upregulation of fermentation pathways in plants has recently been described as an evolutionarily conserved drought survival strategy, with acetate signaling mediating reprograming of transcription and cellular carbon and energy metabolism from roots to leaves. The amount of acetate produced directly correlates with survival through potential mechanisms including defense gene activation, biosynthesis of primary and secondary metabolites, and aerobic respiration. Here, we review root ethanolic fermentation responses to hypoxia during saturated soil conditions and summarize studies highlighting acetate fermentation under aerobic conditions coupled with respiration during growth and drought responses. Recent work is discussed demonstrating long-distance transport of acetate via the transpiration stream as a respiratory substrate. While maintenance and growth respiration are often modeled separately in terrestrial models, here we propose the concept of 'Defense Respiration' fueled by acetate fermentation in which upregulation of acetate fermentation contributes acetate substrate for alternative energy production via aerobic respiration, biosynthesis of primary and secondary metabolites, and the acetylation of proteins involved in defense gene regulation. Finally, we highlight new frontiers in leaf-atmosphere emission measurements as a potential way to study acetate fermentation responses of individual leaves, branches, ecosystems, and regions.

Interventions for the symptoms and signs resulting from jellyfish stings

BACKGROUND

Jellyfish envenomation is common in many coastal regions and varies in severity depending upon the species. Stings cause a variety of symptoms and signs including pain, dermatological reactions, and, in some species, Irukandji syndrome (which may include abdominal/back/chest pain, tachycardia, hypertension, cardiac phenomena, and, rarely, death). Many treatments have been suggested for these symptoms, but their effectiveness is unclear. This is an update of a Cochrane Review last published in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefits and harms associated with the use of any intervention, in both adults and children, for the treatment of jellyfish stings, as assessed by randomised and quasi-randomised trials.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science up to 27 October 2022. We searched clinical trials registers and the grey literature, and conducted forward-citation searching of relevant articles.  SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of any intervention given to treat stings from any species of jellyfish stings. Interventions were compared to another active intervention, placebo, or no treatment. If co-interventions were used, we included the study only if the co-intervention was used in each group.  DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane.  MAIN RESULTS: We included nine studies (six RCTs and three quasi-RCTs) involving a total of 574 participants. We found one ongoing study. Participants were either stung accidentally, or were healthy volunteers exposed to stings in a laboratory setting. Type of jellyfish could not be confirmed in beach settings and was determined by investigators using participant and local information. We categorised interventions into comparison groups: hot versus cold applications; topical applications. A third comparison of parenteral administration included no relevant outcome data: a single study (39 participants) evaluated intravenous magnesium sulfate after stings from jellyfish that cause Irukandji syndrome (Carukia). No studies assessed a fourth comparison group of pressure immobilisation bandages.  We downgraded the certainty of the evidence due to very serious risk of bias, serious and very serious imprecision, and serious inconsistency in some results.  Application of heat versus application of cold Four studies involved accidental stings treated on the beach or in hospital. Jellyfish were described as bluebottles (Physalia; location: Australia), and box jellyfish that do not cause Irukandji syndrome (Hawaiian box jellyfish (Carybdea alata) and major box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri, location: Australia)). Treatments were applied with hot packs or hot water (showers, baths, buckets, or hoses), or ice packs or cold packs.  The evidence for all outcomes was of very low certainty, thus we are unsure whether heat compared to cold leads to at least a clinically significant reduction in pain within six hours of stings from Physalia (risk ratio (RR) 2.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.42 to 3.56; 2 studies, 142 participants) or Carybdea alata and Chironex fleckeri (RR 1.66, 95% CI 0.56 to 4.94; 2 studies, 71 participants). We are unsure whether there is a difference in adverse events due to treatment (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.05 to 5.19; 2 studies, 142 participants); these were minor adverse events reported for Physalia stings. We are also unsure whether either treatment leads to a clinically significant reduction in pain in the first hour (Physalia: RR 2.66, 95% CI 1.71 to 4.15; 1 study, 88 participants; Carybdea alata and Chironex fleckeri: RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.89; 1 study, 42 participants) or cessation of pain at the end of treatment (Physalia: RR 1.63, 95% CI 0.81 to 3.27; 1 study, 54 participants; Carybdea alata and Chironex fleckeri: RR 3.54, 95% CI 0.82 to 15.31; 1 study, 29 participants). Evidence for retreatment with the same intervention was only available for Physalia, with similar uncertain findings (RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.01 to 3.90; 1 study, 96 participants), as was the case for retreatment with the alternative hot or cold application after Physalia (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.82; 1 study, 54 participants) and Chironex fleckeri stings (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.02 to 11.17; 1 study, 42 participants). Evidence for dermatological signs (itchiness or rash) was available only at 24 hours for Physalia stings (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.65; 2 studies, 98 participants).  Topical applications One study (62 participants) included accidental stings from Hawaiian box jellyfish (Carybdea alata) treated on the beach with fresh water, seawater, Sting Aid (a commercial product), or Adolph's (papain) meat tenderiser. In another study, healthy volunteers (97 participants) were stung with an Indonesian sea nettle (Chrysaora chinensis from Malaysia) in a laboratory setting and treated with isopropyl alcohol, ammonia, heated water, acetic acid, or sodium bicarbonate. Two other eligible studies (Carybdea alata and Physalia stings) did not measure the outcomes of this review.  The evidence for all outcomes was of very low certainty, thus we could not be certain whether or not topical applications provided at least a clinically significant reduction in pain (1 study, 62 participants with Carybdea alata stings, reported only as cessation of pain). For adverse events due to treatment, one study (Chrysaora chinensis stings) withdrew ammonia as a treatment following a first-degree burn in one participant. No studies evaluated clinically significant reduction in pain, retreatment with the same or the alternative treatment, or dermatological signs.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Few studies contributed data to this review, and those that did contribute varied in types of treatment, settings, and range of jellyfish species. We are unsure of the effectiveness of any of the treatments evaluated in this review given the very low certainty of all the evidence. This updated review includes two new studies (with 139 additional participants). The findings are consistent with the previous review.

Chitosan production by Penicillium citrinum using paper mill wastewater and rice straw hydrolysate as low-cost substrates in a continuous stirred tank reactor

In this study, paper mill wastewater and hemicellulose hydrolysate were evaluated as low-cost substrates for fungal chitosan production using Penicillium citrinum. Submerged fermentation was first studied using a bioreactor operated under batch, fed-batch and continuous modes with paper mill wastewater as the substrate. Very high removal (91%) of organics as chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the wastewater with 160 mg L^-1 chitosan production by P. citrinum was obtained using the bioreactor operated under fed-batch mode for 72 h. Moreover, 86% reduction of phenolics in the wastewater with 89% decolourization efficiency was achieved in the fed-batch experiments with the bioreactor. Under the continuous mode of operation with the bioreactor, maximum chitosan production of 170 mg L^-1 was observed. The effect of acetic acid addition to the wastewater for enhancing chitosan production by the fungus was further studied in a batch system. Chitosan productivity of 2.33 mg L^-1 h^-1 was obtained with 50 mg/L acetic acid. Various models, viz. Monod, Haldane, Andrews, Webb and Yano, were fitted to the experimental data for understanding the kinetics involved in the process. Haldane model accurately fitted the experimental data on biomass specific growth rate, acetic acid consumption rate and chitosan production rate by P. citrinum with acetic acid addition to the wastewater. Fungal fermentation of another low-cost substrate, rice straw hydrolysate, was further studied using the batch-operated bioreactor; and a maximum chitosan titre of 911 mg L^-1 was achieved using the detoxified rice straw hydrolysate.Highlights Low-cost substrates for chitosan production by Penicillium citrinum are reportedAcetic acid addition to paper mill wastewater enhances chitosan productionBiomass growth and chitosan production follow substrate inhibition kineticsFed-batch -operated bioreactor resulted in 91% wastewater treatment efficiencyMaximum chitosan titre of 911 mg L^-1 was achieved with rice straw hydrolysate.

Efficiency of Fabricated Adsorptive Polysulfone Mixed Matrix Membrane for Acetic Acid Separation

The ultrafiltration mixed matrix membrane (UF MMMs) process represents an applicable approach for the removal of diluted acetic acid at low concentrations, owing to the low pressures applied. The addition of efficient additives represents an approach to further improve membrane porosity and, subsequently, enhance acetic acid removal. This work demonstrates the incorporation of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as additives into polysulfone (PSf) polymer via the non-solvent-induced phase-inversion (NIPS) method to improve the performance of PSf MMMs performance. Eight PSf MMMs samples designated as M0 to M7, each with independent formulations, were prepared and investigated for their respective density, porosity, and degree of AA retention. Morphology analysis through scanning electron microscopy elucidated sample M7 (PSf/TiO₂/PEG 6000) to have the highest density and porosity among all samples with concomitant highest AA retention at approximately 92.2%. The application of the concentration polarization method further supported this finding by the higher concentration of AA solute present on the surface of the membrane compared to that of AA feed for sample M7. Overall, this study successfully demonstrates the significance of TiO₂ and PEG as high MW additives in improving PSf MMM performance.

Comparison of the Efficiency of Different Eradication Treatments to Minimize the Impacts Caused by the Invasive Tunicate Styela plicata in Mussel Aquaculture

In 2017, aquaculture producers of the Albufeira lagoon, Portugal, reported an invasion of tunicates that was disrupting mussel production, particularly the tunicate Styela plicata (Lesueur, 1823). A totally effective eradication method still does not exist, particularly for S. plicata, and the effects of the eradication treatments on bivalves' performance are also poorly understood. Our study examined the effectiveness of eradication treatments using three laboratory trials and five treatments (air exposure, freshwater immersion, sodium hypochlorite, hypersaline solution and acetic acid) for S. plicata, as well as their effects on survival and growth of blue mussel Mytilus edulis Linnaeus, 1758. While air exposure and freshwater immersion caused a 27% mortality rate in S. plicata, the acetic acid treatment was the most effective in eliminating this species (>90% mortality). However, a 33-40% mortality rate was registered in mussels. Both species were not affected by the hypersaline treatment in the last trial, but the sodium hypochlorite treatment led to a 57% mortality rate in mussels. Differences in mussels' growth rates were not detected. These trials represent a step forward in responding to the needs of aquaculture producers. However, further studies are needed to investigate the susceptibility of tunicates to treatments according to sexual maturation, as well as to ensure minimum mussel mortality in the most effective treatments, and to better understand the effects on mussel physiological performance in the long-term.

Wide-Band-Gap (2.0 eV) Perovskite Solar Cells with a VOC of 1.325 V Fabricated by a Green-Solvent Strategy

Perovskite-based tandem solar cells are promising candidates for next-generation photovoltaic devices. However, the defects caused by ion migration cause a large deficit of open-circuit voltage (V_OC) in conventional wide-band-gap perovskite films. Here, we present a new strategy that employs nontoxic acetic acid and isopropanol as solvents to deposit a perovskite film with a 2.0 eV band gap in an ambient atmosphere. The in situ formed acetate anions strongly stabilize the intrinsic defects in perovskite films. These features effectively improve the phase stability of 2.0 eV Cs_0.2FA_0.8PbI_0.9Br_2.1 perovskite, allowing the V_OC to reach 1.325 V and the corresponding power conversion efficiency to reach 10.62%, which is close to the state-of-art performance of perovskite solar cells employing perovskite around a 2.0 eV band gap.

Acetic acid-induced colitis modulating potential of total crude alkaloidal extract of Picralima nitida seeds in rats

PURPOSE

The total crude alkaloidal extract of Picralima nitida seeds (PNE) is known to possess anti-inflammatory activity among other therapeutic benefits although its benefits in colitis has not been investigated. The current study therefore seeks to investigate the anti-colitis potential of PNE using acetic acid-induced colitis model in rats.

METHODS

Sprague Dawley rats were treated with oral 500 mg/kg sulphasalazine or 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg of PNE daily for 8 days with induction of colitis on the fourth day with acetic acid. Rats were killed 24 h after the last treatment and whole blood was obtained from the jugular vein for hematological analysis and biochemical assays. Colons were extirpated for assessment of macroscopic and histological damage to the colon.

RESULTS

Treatment with PNE protected against colonic injury induced with acetic acid by decreasing mucosal ulceration, epithelial erosion, inflammatory cell infiltration, and colonic edema. Thus, PNE preserved mucosal architecture and suppressed goblet cells depletion. Moreover, treatment with PNE was associated with improved hematological parameters and reductions in the expression of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Also, PNE treatment exerted antioxidant effects by reducing nitric oxide production and increasing glutathione levels. In addition, PNE inhibited colonic lipid peroxidation by decreasing myeloperoxidase activity and malondialdehyde production.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that PNE attenuates intestinal oxidative and inflammatory damages following intrarectal acetic acid challenge. Thus, demonstrates potential for use in chronic intestinal inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis.

Organocatalytic-racemization reaction elucidation of aspartic acid by density functional theory

Aldehydes and carboxylic acids are widely used as catalysts for efficient racemization process of amino acids. However, the detailed reaction mechanism remains unclear. This work aims to clarify the racemization mechanism of aspartic acid (Asp) catalyzed by salicylaldehyde and acetic acid by using computational approaches. Density functional theory was used to obtain the structures and relative energies of 10 intermediates and five transition states, thus characterizing the main stages of the reaction. The calculated energy diagram shows that the dehydration step has the highest energy barrier, followed by the reaction step to change the chirality of Asp, which is a crucial process for racemization. In the dehydration reaction, water molecules can induce a remarkable decrease in the required energy.

Predicting Extraction Selectivity of Acetic Acid in Pervaporation by Machine Learning Models with Data Leakage Management

The extraction of acetic acid and other carboxylic acids from water is an emerging separation need as they are increasingly produced from waste organics and CO₂ during carbon valorization. However, the traditional experimental approach can be slow and expensive, and machine learning (ML) may provide new insights and guidance in membrane development for organic acid extraction. In this study, we collected extensive literature data and developed the first ML models for predicting separation factors between acetic acid and water in pervaporation with polymers' properties, membrane morphology, fabrication parameters, and operating conditions. Importantly, we assessed seed randomness and data leakage problems during model development, which have been overlooked in ML studies but will result in over-optimistic results and misinterpreted variable importance. With proper data leakage management, we established a robust model and achieved a root-mean-square error of 0.515 using the CatBoost regression model. In addition, the prediction model was interpreted to elucidate the variables' importance, where the mass ratio was the topmost significant variable in predicting separation factors. In addition, polymers' concentration and membranes' effective area contributed to information leakage. These results demonstrate ML models' advances in membrane design and fabrication and the importance of vigorous model validation.

Acetate Production from Syngas Produced from Lignocellulosic Biomass Materials along with Gaseous Fermentation of the Syngas: A Review

Biotransformation of lignocellulose-derived synthetic gas (syngas) into acetic acid is a promising way of creating biochemicals from lignocellulosic waste materials. Acetic acid has a growing market with applications within food, plastics and for upgrading into a wide range of biofuels and bio-products. In this paper, we will review the microbial conversion of syngas to acetic acid. This will include the presentation of acetate-producing bacterial strains and their optimal fermentation conditions, such as pH, temperature, media composition, and syngas composition, to enhance acetate production. The influence of syngas impurities generated from lignocellulose gasification will further be covered along with the means to alleviate impurity problems through gas purification. The problem with mass transfer limitation of gaseous fermentation will further be discussed as well as ways to improve gas uptake during the fermentation.

Towards Electrochemical Sensor Based on Molecularly Imprinted Polypyrrole for the Detection of Bacteria-Listeria monocytogenes

Detecting bacteria-Listeria monocytogenes-is an essential healthcare and food industry issue. The objective of the current study was to apply platinum (Pt) and screen-printed carbon (SPCE) electrodes modified by molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) in the design of an electrochemical sensor for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes. A sequence of potential pulses was used to perform the electrochemical deposition of the non-imprinted polypyrrole (NIP-Ppy) layer and Listeria monocytogenes-imprinted polypyrrole (MIP-Ppy) layer over SPCE and Pt electrodes. The bacteria were removed by incubating Ppy-modified electrodes in different extraction solutions (sulphuric acid, acetic acid, L-lysine, and trypsin) to determine the most efficient solution for extraction and to obtain a more sensitive and repeatable design of the sensor. The performance of MIP-Ppy- and NIP-Ppy-modified electrodes was evaluated by pulsed amperometric detection (PAD). According to the results of this research, it can be assumed that the most effective MIP-Ppy/SPCE sensor can be designed by removing bacteria with the proteolytic enzyme trypsin. The LOD and LOQ of the MIP-Ppy/SPCE were 70 CFU/mL and 210 CFU/mL, respectively, with a linear range from 300 to 6700 CFU/mL.

Probiotic Lactobacillus Species and Their Biosurfactants Eliminate Acinetobacter baumannii Biofilm in Various Manners

Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical biofilm-forming pathogen that has presented great challenges in the clinic due to multidrug resistance. Thus, new methods of intervention are needed to control biofilm-associated infections. In this study, among three tested Lactobacillus species, Lactobacillus rhamnosus showed significant antimaturation and antiadherence effects against A. baumannii biofilm. Lactic acid (LA) and acetic acid (AA) were the most effective antibiofilm biosurfactants (BSs) produced by L. rhamnosus. This antibiofilm phenomenon produced by LA and AA was due to the strong bactericidal effect, which worked from very early time points, as determined by colony enumeration and confocal laser scanning microscope. The cell destruction of A. baumannii appeared in both the cell envelope and cytoplasm. A discontinuous cell envelope, the leakage of cell contents, and the increased extracellular activity of ATPase demonstrated the disruption of the cell membrane by LA and AA. These effects also demonstrated the occurrence of protein lysis. In addition, bacterial DNA interacted with and was damaged by LA and AA, resulting in significantly reduced expression of biofilm and DNA repair genes. The results highlight the possibility and importance of using probiotics in clinical prevention. Probiotics can be utilized as novel biocides to block and decrease biofilm formation and microbial contamination in medical equipment and during the treatment of infections. IMPORTANCE A. baumannii biofilm is a significant virulence factor that causes the biofilm colonization of invasive illnesses. Rising bacterial resistance to synthetic antimicrobials has prompted researchers to look at natural alternatives, such as probiotics and their derivatives. In this study, L. rhamnosus and its BSs (LA and AA) demonstrated remarkable antibiofilm and antimicrobial characteristics, with a significant inhibitory effect on A. baumannii. These effects were achieved by several mechanisms, including the disruption of the cell envelope membrane, protein lysis, reduced expression of biofilm-related genes, and destruction of bacterial DNA. The results provide support for the possibility of using probiotics and their derivatives in the clinical prevention and therapy of A. baumannii infections.

Evaluation of Red Wine Acidification Using an E-Nose System with Venturi Tool Sampling

The quality of wine is checked both during the production process and upon consumption. Therefore, manual wine-tasting work is still valuable. Due to the nature of wine, many volatile components are released, and it is therefore difficult to determine which elements need to be controlled. Acetic acid is one of the substances found in wine and is a crucial substance for wine quality. Gas sensor systems may be a potential alternative for manual wine tasting. In this work, we have developed a TGS2620 gas sensor module to analyze acetic acid levels in red wine. The gas sensor module was refined according to the Venturi effect along with signal slope analysis, providing promising results. The example included in this paper demonstrates that there is a direct relationship between the slope of the MOS gas sensor response and the acetic acid concentration. This relationship is useful to evaluate the ethanol oxidation in acetic acid in red wine during its production process.

Effects of a Synbiotic on Plasma Immune Activity Markers and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Children and Adults with ADHD-A Randomized Controlled Trial

Synbiotic 2000, a pre + probiotic, reduced comorbid autistic traits and emotion dysregulation in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients. Immune activity and bacteria-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are microbiota-gut-brain axis mediators. The aim was to investigate Synbiotic 2000 effects on plasma levels of immune activity markers and SCFAs in children and adults with ADHD. ADHD patients (n = 182) completed the 9-week intervention with Synbiotic 2000 or placebo and 156 provided blood samples. Healthy adult controls (n = 57) provided baseline samples. At baseline, adults with ADHD had higher pro-inflammatory sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 and lower SCFA levels than controls. Children with ADHD had higher baseline sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, IL-12/IL-23p40, IL-2Rα, and lower formic, acetic, and propionic acid levels than adults with ADHD. sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, and propionic acid levels were more abnormal in children on medication. Synbiotic 2000, compared to placebo, reduced IL-12/IL-23p40 and sICAM-1 and increased propionic acid levels in children on medication. SCFAs correlated negatively with sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1. Preliminary human aortic smooth-muscle-cell experiments indicated that SCFAs protected against IL-1β-induced ICAM-1 expression. These findings suggest that treatment with Synbiotic 2000 reduces IL12/IL-23p40 and sICAM-1 and increases propionic acid levels in children with ADHD. Propionic acid, together with formic and acetic acid, may contribute to the lowering of the higher-than-normal sICAM-1 levels.

Protective role of vitamin B12 on acetic acid induced colitis in rats

Objectives

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, relapsing, and remittent inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Nutritional deficiency may be instrumental in and attributable to this disease. We examined the effect of VitB12 supplementation on acetic acid (AA)-induced colitis in rats.

Material and Methods

Five minutes after the application of acetic acid to the rats to create a colitis model, VitB12 was administered 1 mg/kg, i.p concentration, then the application continued for three consecutive days. Control groups were included for colitis and VitB12. After 4d, the rats were sacrificed, and colonic tissues were harvested for macroscopic and microscopic examination of colonic damage. TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MDA, GSH and SOD values were measured biochemically.

Results

There was statistically significant macroscopic improvement in damage to the colon tissues (p <0.05). The severity of inflammation reduced in the VitB12 treated rat group compared with the control group, but was not significantly. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA, and SOD did not differ between AA control and VitB12 treated AA colitis group. However, the levels of IL-6 and GSH were statistically significant different in rats with AA-induced colitis after VitB12 injection (p <0.05).

Conclusion

Nutritional deficiencies might contribute to the pathogenesis of IBD, and the efficacy of VitB12 supplementation has controversial effects on the intestinal mucosa.

Profiling Blautia at high taxonomic resolution reveals correlations with cognitive dysfunction in Chinese children with Down syndrome

Introduction

Down syndrome (DS), the presence of a supernumerary chromosome 21, is associated with cognitive dysfunction caused by early neurodegenerative processes. Alterations in the gut microbiota were observed in Chinese children with DS, and the genus Blautia was associated with cognitive function in these children. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the detailed composition of this group at the species level and to explore the effect of specific species on cognitive function.

Methods

In this study, Blautia-specific amplicon sequencing was conducted to identify the specific Blautia species in 15 children with DS and 15 matched healthy children.

Results

The taxonomic analyses suggested that the Blautia taxa were clustered by disease status. The diversity of Blautia at the species level differed between DS patients and healthy controls, with the abundances of Blautia massiliensis and Blautia argi decreasing in DS children, while Blautia faecis was increased. Acetic acid, one of the metabolites of Blautia, was significantly reduced in the DS group. Of particular interest, Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed decreased modules related to starch and sucrose metabolism and glycolysis. In addition, B. argi was positively related to DS cognitive scores, and B. faecis was negatively related to cognitive function, implying its role on the DS cognitive impairments.

Discussion

Our study has important implications for understanding the important effects of specific species of Blautia on cognitive function and thus possibly provides a new strategy for future studies of cognitive improvement in individuals with DS.

The usefulness of image-enhanced endoscopy to distinguish gastric carcinoma in tumors initially diagnosed as adenomas by endoscopic biopsy: A retrospective study

Superficial epithelial gastric neoplasms can be divided into adenomas and early carcinomas. Histological diagnosis by endoscopic forceps biopsy is crucial for the diagnosis and management of gastric neoplasms. It is difficult to distinguish features of gastric neoplasms in small biopsy specimens; hence, gastric carcinomas can be underdiagnosed as adenomas. Recent developments in image-enhanced endoscopy have improved the ability to differentiate between carcinomatous and non-carcinomatous lesions. To investigate the prevalence of gastric carcinoma in lesions initially diagnosed as adenomas by forceps biopsy and assess the usefulness of image-enhanced endoscopy in distinguishing carcinomas. A total of 142 lesions of gastric adenomas, diagnosed by biopsy and resected endoscopically between January 2010 and May 2020, were retrospectively evaluated. Images were captured by white-light endoscopy (WLE), magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging (M-NBI), and magnifying endoscopy with acetic acid and narrow-band imaging (M-AANBI); they were analyzed and compared with histopathological results. The diagnostic performance of M-AANBI was compared with that of M-NBI. Of the 142 lesions, 58 (40.8%) were pathologically diagnosed as adenocarcinomas. On WLE images, a depressed macroscopic type and size ≥20 mm were significant predictors of carcinoma (P < .001); however, they displayed low sensitivities (32.8% and 41.4%, respectively). M-AANBI displayed significantly higher sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for distinguishing carcinomas than M-NBI (94.8% vs 74.1%, 81.0% vs 72.6%, and 86.6% vs 73.2%, P < .05). In conclusion, carcinoma was prevalent in 40.8% of gastric lesions initially diagnosed as adenomas by forceps biopsy. M-AANBI may be more useful than M-NBI and WLE in distinguishing gastric carcinomas from adenomas.

Apigenin and Exposure to Low Dose Gamma Radiation Ameliorate Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease involving chronic and recurring colon inflammation. Current management protocols are limited by adverse effects or short-term symptomatic relief. We aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic prospect of low dose gamma (γ) irradiation or apigenin treatment in acetic acid-induced UC in rats. Induction of UC was carried out by installation of acetic acid intra-rectally. One hour post-induction, rats received a sole dose of γ-radiation (0.5 Gray) or were treated with apigenin (3 mg/kg/day, peroral) for 7 successive days. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of both agents were assessed via determination of colon malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), total nitrate/nitrite (NOx), mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) contents as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Body weight (BW), colon weight/length (W/L) ratio, disease activity index (DAI), and histopathological changes were evaluated. Gamma irradiation and apigenin significantly ameliorated the acetic acid-induced biochemical and histopathological changes. Both therapeutic approaches significantly restored colon contents of the investigated biomarkers. They modulated BW, colon W/L ratio and DAI. This study proposes low dose γ-irradiation as a new therapeutic candidate for the management of UC. We also concluded that apigenin exhibited therapeutic benefits in UC management.

The Impact of Acetic Acid on Measuring Ethanol Concentrations in Water and Human Serum Using Short-Wave Infrared Spectroscopy

Ethanol intoxication, although an elemental part of life in many places around the world, still presents several issues associated with excessive consumption. These issues range from drunk driving, violence, and antisocial behavior to self-harm, all exerting an increased cost on the society. Monitoring of intoxication levels can help to limit the impact of these issues by preventing the use of automobiles or heavy machinery and personal monitoring. Previous works on noninvasive measurement of ethanol tissue concentration for estimation of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) performed worst during the first hour of intoxication. Gas chromatography research of intoxication shows that levels of acetic acid rise together at a similar rate as those of ethanol after initial imbibement. In this research, short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectroscopy was utilized with the aim of establishing the interaction between ethanol and acetic acid in water and serum mixtures. The most consistent and clear correlation between ethanol and acetic acid was recorded at 2262 and 2302 nm wavelengths. Partial least-squares (PLS) analysis indicates that the most effective region for consideration in measurement of ethanol is the therapeutic window four (IV) due to high variance in vibration of carbon bonds. The behavior of spectra at different concentration ranges was examined and described in detail in relation to the consequence of alcohol measurement. The investigation concluded that ethanol shows distinctive regions of absorbance at wavelengths of 2262 and 2302 nm, with variations arising from increasing concentrations of acetic acid, whilst also showing that therapeutic window four is amongst the most influential regions of the spectrum for SWIR.

Implementation of visual inspection with acetic acid and Lugol's iodine for cervical cancer screening in rural China

OBJECTIVE

To address the value of visual inspection where HPV-based screening is not yet available, we evaluated the real-world effectiveness of visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and with Lugol's iodine (VILI) as a primary screening method for cervical cancer in rural China.

METHODS

A total of 206 133 women aged 30-59 years received two rounds of VIA/VILI screening for cervical cancer in 2006-2010. Women with positive screening results underwent colposcopy and direct biopsy, and were treated if cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) was diagnosed. Clinical effectiveness of VIA/VILI was evaluated by process and outcome measures.

RESULTS

The VIA/VILI positivity rate, biopsy rate and detection rate of CIN2+ in the second round were significantly lower than in the first round. The 2-year cumulative detection rate of CIN2+ varied from 0.53% to 0.90% among the four cohorts initiated in 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009. The first round of screening detected 60%-83% of CIN2, 70%-86% of CIN3, and 88%-100% of cervical cancer. Over 92% of CIN2+ were found at the early stage.

CONCLUSION

Multiple rounds of visual inspection with continuous training and quality assurance could act as a temporary substitutional screening method for cervical cancer in resource-restricted settings.