Defluorination of Organofluorine Compounds Using Dehalogenase Enzymes from (D4B).

Organofluorine compounds have been widely used as pharmaceuticals, agricultural pesticides, and water-resistant coatings for decades; however, these compounds are recognized as environmental pollutants. The capability of microorganisms and enzymes to defluorinate organofluorine compounds is both rare and highly desirable to facilitate environmental remediation efforts. Recently, a strain of (D4B) was identified with potential biodegradation activity toward perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other organofluorine compounds.

Engineering and characterization of dehalogenase enzymes from in bioremediation of perfluorinated compounds.

Per- and Polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are a broad class of synthetic compounds that have fluorine substituted for hydrogen in several or all locations and are globally categorized as PFCs (perfluorochemicals; commonly called fluorinated chemicals). These compounds have unique chemical and physical properties that enable their use in non-stick surfaces, fire-fighting efforts, and as slick coatings. However, recent concerns over the health effects of such compounds, specifically perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOA, PFOS; PFOA/S), have led to increased attention and research by the global community into degradation methods.

The Psychosocial and Spiritual Experiences of Patients with Advanced Incurable Illness in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

Context: The psychosocial and spiritual needs of individuals with life-limiting conditions in low- or middle-income countries have not been well described. Understanding these needs is important to providing holistic palliative care.

Aim: This study aims to better understand the psychosocial and spiritual needs and supports of patients with advanced, incurable illness in Bangladesh.

Experiences from the first 10 years of a perinatal palliative care program: A retrospective chart review.

Background: Perinatal palliative care is a relatively new component of paediatric palliative care which supports families who are expecting the birth of a child with a life-limiting condition. This study seeks to understand the characteristics of the infants and families referred for perinatal palliative care and the context for referrals in terms of diagnoses, referral characteristics, interventions, and outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of infants with prenatally diagnosed life-limiting conditions that were referred for perinatal palliative care.