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Inhalation Toxicology Jan 2020Diesel exhaust is a complex mixture comprised of gases and particulate matter and is a contributor to ambient air pollution. To reduce health risks, recent changes in...
Diesel exhaust is a complex mixture comprised of gases and particulate matter and is a contributor to ambient air pollution. To reduce health risks, recent changes in diesel engine technology have significantly altered the composition of diesel exhaust, primarily by lowering emissions of particulate matter. However, animal toxicological studies continue to report health effects following exposure to diesel exhaust from engines employing particulate filters. The cause of these effects remains unclear. To gain an understanding of the role of both particle-filtered and whole diesel exhaust on specific health outcomes, we conducted a systematic review in which we examined animal toxicological and controlled human exposure studies that included a comparison between inhalation of particle-filtered and whole diesel exhaust on any health endpoint. We identified 26 studies that met both the inclusion and study evaluation criteria. For most health outcomes, the particle filtration methods employed in the included studies did not appreciably attenuate the health effects associated with exposure to whole diesel exhaust. There were also several health endpoints for which significant effects were associated with exposure to either particle-filtered or whole diesel exhaust, but not to both. Overall, the results from this systematic review demonstrate that exposure to different components in diesel exhaust can have distinct and independent health effects. Thus, to better inform human health risk assessments, future studies aimed at elucidating the health effects from diesel exhaust should include exposure to both particle-filtered and whole diesel exhaust.
Topics: Air Pollutants; Animals; Cardiovascular System; Endpoint Determination; Female; Humans; Inhalation Exposure; Male; Nervous System; Particle Size; Particulate Matter; Reproduction; Respiratory System; Vehicle Emissions
PubMed: 32100584
DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2020.1725187 -
Cureus Oct 2021Our objective is to analyze the risk of particle spread through mastoidectomy during the COVID-19 pandemic with an aim to assess the tools used to mitigate the... (Review)
Review
Our objective is to analyze the risk of particle spread through mastoidectomy during the COVID-19 pandemic with an aim to assess the tools used to mitigate the spread. A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Our search terms included: MASTOIDECTOMY + COVID-19 or MASTOIDECTOMY + SAR- CoV-2 or MASTOIDECTOMY + CORONAVIRUS. Studies consistent with the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the review. Of the 20 articles identified in the initial search, six met the inclusion criteria. The included articles were all experimental studies, with five studies using cadaver subjects and one study using live human subjects. Three studies measured droplet spread and three studies measured aerosolized particle spread. The maximum distance of particle spread ranged from 30 cm to 208 cm. Four studies assessed the use of a barrier system, with two using the OtoTent and two using a barrier drape. Two studies defined the microscope alone as a possible mitigatory tool. One study compared burr type and size to determine the effects on particle spread. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, evaluation of tools to mitigate particle spread is imperative for the safety of the surgical team and the healthcare system at large. Barrier drapes, OtoTents and microscopes all have proven to mitigate particle spread; however, further research needs to be performed to compare their efficacy and develop a standard of safety.
PubMed: 34853757
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19040 -
International Journal of Environmental... Feb 2024One of the widely used microbiological methods to determine the toxicity of chemicals, catalysts, and other types of materials is the minimum inhibitory concentration... (Review)
Review
One of the widely used microbiological methods to determine the toxicity of chemicals, catalysts, and other types of materials is the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test. The present study aims to investigate the influence of composition of composite materials based on TiO and their particle size as well as bacterial type and shape based on the MIC values reported in the literature. The results show that among the 36 articles selected, most of the studies used () (26) and () (19) bacteria to determine MIC values. This study revealed that the MIC in values below 70 µg ml for was lower than that for bacteria (below 200 µg ml). Importantly, MIC value decreased from 60.6 to 7.66 µg ml with decrease in the size of nanoparticles. It follows from the increased surface area for smaller-sized particles, thus increased interaction with bacteria during MIC test.
Topics: Anti-Bacterial Agents; Staphylococcus aureus; Escherichia coli; Particle Size; Nanoparticles; Bacteria; Microbial Sensitivity Tests
PubMed: 36592384
DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2163990 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Aug 2021The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and the antibacterial activities has provided enormous data on populations, geographical areas, and experiments with bio silver...
The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and the antibacterial activities has provided enormous data on populations, geographical areas, and experiments with bio silver nanoparticles' antibacterial operation. Several peer-reviewed publications have discussed various aspects of this subject field over the last generation. However, there is an absence of a detailed and structured framework that can represent the research domain on this topic. This paper attempts to evaluate current articles mainly on the biosynthesis of nanoparticles or antibacterial activities utilizing the scientific methodology of big data analytics. A comprehensive study was done using multiple databases-Medline, Scopus, and Web of Sciences through PRISMA (i.e., Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). The keywords used included 'biosynthesis silver nano particles' OR 'silver nanoparticles' OR 'biosynthesis' AND 'antibacterial behavior' OR 'anti-microbial opposition' AND 'systematic analysis,' by using MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms, Boolean operator's parenthesis, or truncations as required. Since their effectiveness is dependent on particle size or initial concentration, it necessitates more research. Understanding the field of silver nanoparticle biosynthesis and antibacterial activity in Gulf areas and most Asian countries also necessitates its use of human-generated data. Furthermore, the need for this work has been highlighted by the lack of predictive modeling in this field and a need to combine specific domain expertise. Studies eligible for such a review were determined by certain inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study contributes to the existence of theoretical and analytical studies in this domain. After testing as per inclusion criteria, seven in vitro studies were selected out of 28 studies. Findings reveal that silver nanoparticles have different degrees of antimicrobial activity based on numerous factors. Limitations of the study include studies with low to moderate risks of bias and antimicrobial effects of silver nanoparticles. The study also reveals the possible use of silver nanoparticles as antibacterial irrigants using various methods, including a qualitative evaluation of knowledge and a comprehensive collection and interpretation of scientific studies.
Topics: Animals; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Humans; Metal Nanoparticles; Particle Size; Silver
PubMed: 34443644
DOI: 10.3390/molecules26165057 -
PloS One 2020The aim of this study was to systematically collate and appraise the available evidence regarding the associations between small, dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL)... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to systematically collate and appraise the available evidence regarding the associations between small, dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL) and incident coronary heart disease (CHD), focusing on cholesterol concentration (sdLDL-C) and sdLDL particle characteristics (presence, density, and size).
BACKGROUND
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Small, dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL) has been hypothesized to induce atherosclerosis and subsequent coronary heart disease (CHD). However, the etiological relevance of lipoprotein particle size (sdLDL) versus cholesterol content (sdLDL-C) remains unclear.
METHODS
PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE were systematically searched for studies published before February 2020. CHD associations were based on quartile comparisons in eight studies of sdLDL-C and were based on binary categorization in fourteen studies of sdLDL particle size. Reported hazards ratios (HR) and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were standardized and pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis model.
RESULTS
Data were collated from 21 studies with a total of 30,628 subjects and 5,693 incident CHD events. The average age was 67 years, and 53% were men. Higher sdLDL and sdLDL-C levels were both significantly associated with higher risk of CHD. The pooled estimate for the high vs. low categorization of sdLDL was 1.36 (95% CI: 1.21, 1.52) and 1.07 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.12) for comparing the top quartiles versus the bottom of sdLDL-C. Several studies suggested a dose response relationship.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings show a positive association between sdLDL or sdLDL-C levels and CHD, which is supported by an increasing body of genetic evidence in favor of its causality as an etiological risk factor. Thus, the results support sdLDL and sdLDL-C as a risk marker, but further research is required to establish sdLDL or sdLDL-C as a potential therapeutic marker for incident CHD risk reduction.
Topics: Atherosclerosis; Biomarkers; Cholesterol, LDL; Coronary Disease; Humans; Lipoproteins; Particle Size; Risk Factors
PubMed: 33166340
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241993 -
Nutrition Reviews Apr 2022Moderate alcohol consumption is associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and improvement in cardiovascular risk markers, including lipoproteins and...
CONTEXT
Moderate alcohol consumption is associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and improvement in cardiovascular risk markers, including lipoproteins and lipoprotein subfractions.
OBJECTIVE
To systematically review the relationship between moderate alcohol intake, lipoprotein subfractions, and related mechanisms.
DATA SOURCES
Following PRISMA, all human and ex vivo studies with an alcohol intake up to 60 g/d were included from 8 databases.
DATA EXTRACTION
A total of 17 478 studies were screened, and data were extracted from 37 intervention and 77 observational studies.
RESULTS
Alcohol intake was positively associated with all HDL subfractions. A few studies found lower levels of small LDLs, increased average LDL particle size, and nonlinear relationships to apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. Cholesterol efflux capacity and paraoxonase activity were consistently increased. Several studies had unclear or high risk of bias, and heterogeneous laboratory methods restricted comparability between studies.
CONCLUSIONS
Up to 60 g/d alcohol can cause changes in lipoprotein subfractions and related mechanisms that could influence cardiovascular health.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
PROSPERO registration no. 98955.
Topics: Alcohol Drinking; Apolipoproteins B; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cholesterol, HDL; Humans; Lipoproteins; Lipoproteins, LDL
PubMed: 34957513
DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuab102 -
Nutrients Mar 2021Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of global mortality and the study of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) particle composition and functionality has become...
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of global mortality and the study of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) particle composition and functionality has become a matter of high interest, particularly in light to the disappointing clinical data for HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) raising therapies in CVD secondary prevention and the lack of association between HDL-C and the risk of CVD. Recent evidences suggest that HDL composition and functionality could be modulated by diet. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the effect of Mediterranean diet (MD) on changes in HDL structure and functionality in humans. A comprehensive search was conducted in four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane library and Web of Science) and 13 records were chosen. MD showed favorable effects on HDL functionality, particularly by improving HDL cholesterol efflux capacity and decreasing HDL oxidation. In addition, HDL composition and size were influenced by MD. Thus, MD is a protective factor against CVD associated with the improvement of HDL quality and the prevention of HDL dysfunctionality.
Topics: Diet, Mediterranean; Humans; Lipoproteins, HDL
PubMed: 33809504
DOI: 10.3390/nu13030955 -
Interventional Neuroradiology : Journal... Feb 2024In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we investigated the efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) using particle embolic agents to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we investigated the efficacy and safety of middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) using particle embolic agents to treat cSDH.
METHODS
To retrieve articles investigating outcomes of patients following MMAE with particle agents and to compare their outcome with conventional treatment, Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched using relevant keywords. Original articles with more than 10 cases were included. The meta-analysis was carried out using the R studio and the random-effects model. Publication bias was assessed using Peter's test and quality assessment using NIH tools.
RESULTS
Eleven studies with 359 patients were included. The analysis revealed a pooled recurrence rate of 5% (CI: 3-8%), a need for reoperation rate of 5% (3-9%), and a peri-procedural complication rate of 4% (CI:2-9%) following MMAE with particle embolic agents. The pooled rates of decrease in size or resolution of the hematoma were 85% (CI:66-94%) and 66% (39-86%), respectively. Comparing MMAE using particulate embolysate with conventional treatments, risk ratio (RR) of 0.10 (CI:0.04-0.27) was achieved for recurrence, 0.25(CI:0.13-0.49) for reoperation, and 0.34 (CI:0.16-0.27) for peri-procedural complications. 91% of cSDH cases responded to MMAE with particles in the way they showed either down-sizing or complete resolution of the hematoma on follow-up imaging. In comparison, this rate was found to be 63% following conventional treatment.
CONCLUSION
Middle meningeal artery embolization using particle embolysates is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of cSDH, whether as a standalone intervention or in combination with conventional treatments.
Topics: Humans; Hematoma, Subdural, Chronic; Meningeal Arteries; Embolization, Therapeutic; Reoperation; Hematoma
PubMed: 36112765
DOI: 10.1177/15910199221125977 -
Interventional Neuroradiology : Journal... Jun 2023Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is associated with high recurrence rates. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has emerged as a promising treatment option. In... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is associated with high recurrence rates. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) has emerged as a promising treatment option. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of MMAE for CSDH using liquid embolic agents and compare them with particles.
METHODS
We systematically reviewed all studies describing MMAE for CSDH with liquid embolic agents, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Additionally, we included a cohort of patients from our institution using liquid and particle embolic agents. Data were analyzed using random-effects proportions and comparisons meta-analysis, and statistical heterogeneity was assessed.
RESULTS
A total of 18 studies with 507 cases of MMAE with liquid embolic agents (including our institutional experience) were included in the analysis. The success rate was 99% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 98-100%), all complications rate was 1% (95% CI: 0-5%), major complications rate was 0% (95% CI: 0-0%), and mortality rate was 1% (95% CI: 0-6%). The rate of hematoma size reduction was 97% (95% CI: 73-100%), complete resolution 64% (95% CI: 33-87%), radiographic recurrence 3% (95% CI: 1-7%), and reoperation 3% (95% CI: 1-7%). No significant differences in outcomes were found between liquid and particle embolic agents. Sensitivity analyses revealed that liquid embolic agents were associated with lower reoperation rates in upfront MMAE (risk ratio 0.13, 95% CI: 0.02-0.95).
CONCLUSION
MMAE with liquid embolic agents is safe and effective for the treatment of CSDH. Outcomes are comparable to particles, but liquids were associated with a decreased risk of reoperation in upfront MMAE. However, further studies are needed to support our findings.
PubMed: 37322877
DOI: 10.1177/15910199231183132 -
A systematic review on the composting of green waste: Feedstock quality and optimization strategies.Waste Management (New York, N.Y.) Jul 2018Green waste (GW) is an important fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW). The composting of lignocellulosic GW is challenging due to its low decomposition rate.... (Review)
Review
Green waste (GW) is an important fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW). The composting of lignocellulosic GW is challenging due to its low decomposition rate. Recently, an increasing number of studies that include strategies to optimize GW composting appeared in the literature. This literature review focuses on the physicochemical quality of GW and on the effect of strategies used to improve the process and product quality. A systematic search was carried out, using keywords, and 447 papers published between 2002 and 2018 were identified. After a screening process, 41 papers addressing feedstock quality and 32 papers on optimization strategies were selected to be reviewed and analyzed in detail. The GW composition is highly variable due to the diversity of the source materials, the type of vegetation, and climatic conditions. This variability limits a strict categorization of the GW physicochemical characteristics. However, this research established that the predominant features of GW are a C/N ratio higher than 25, a deficit in important nutrients, namely nitrogen (0.5-1.5% db), phosphorous (0.1-0.2% db) and potassium (0.4-0.8% db) and a high content of recalcitrant organic compounds (e.g. lignin). The promising strategies to improve composting of GW were: i) GW particle size reduction (e.g. shredding and separation of GW fractions); ii) addition of energy amendments (e.g. non-refined sugar, phosphate rock, food waste, volatile ashes), bulking materials (e.g. biocarbon, wood chips), or microbial inoculum (e.g. fungal consortia); and iii) variations in operating parameters (aeration, temperature, and two-phase composting). These alternatives have successfully led to the reduction of process length and have managed to transform recalcitrant substances to a high-quality end-product.
Topics: Composting; Nitrogen; Phosphorus; Soil; Solid Waste
PubMed: 29709309
DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2018.04.037