Latest news with #FrontiersinMicrobiology
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SINTX Technologies Announces Patent Issuance and Formation of Subsidiary to Advance Antimicrobial Applications in the Agribiotech Market
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SINTX Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SINT) ('SINTX' or the 'Company'), a leader in advanced ceramics for medical device and other technical applications, announced the issuance of International Patent No. 7635292, which covers novel agricultural uses of the Company's silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) particularly in plant protection and antimicrobial treatment. This patent, combined with issued U.S. Patent No. 11,591,217, creates a family of patents focused on addressing the antimicrobial agribiotech market. SINTX remains focused on advancing silicon nitride technologies for medical applications; however, the material's broad utility allows for selective expansion into high-impact adjacent sectors. In line with this strategic expansion, the Company has formed a wholly-owned subsidiary that will have a dedicated management team focused on developing and commercializing agricultural and environmental technologies—signaling the official launch of SINTX Agribiotech, Inc. Market OpportunityThe global antimicrobial fertilizer and crop protection market is projected to grow significantly, reaching up to $10.36 billion by 2030. SINTX intends to position its Si₃N₄ technology at the intersection of sustainability and high-performance crop protection within an industry increasingly focused on sustainable, eco-friendly solutions. Independent Path for GrowthThe new agribiotech subsidiary will operate independently from SINTX's medical device business, with its own development pipeline. This separation allows for focused resource allocation, technology validation in field settings, and potential partnerships or licensing opportunities with agricultural companies. 'This is more than diversification—it's about unlocking the full potential of our core material,' said Eric Olson. 'We're establishing a clear path to deploy our Si₃N₄ into vineyards, orchards, farmlands and hydroponic facilities, potentially beginning with one of the most compelling use cases: wine production.' Silicon Nitride: A Natural Defense Against Crop DiseaseInternal research previously published in Frontiers in Microbiology demonstrates that silicon nitride provides powerful antifungal protection against Plasmopara viticola, the pathogen responsible for grapevine downy mildew, one of the most devastating diseases affecting vineyards globally. The study demonstrated that treating grapevine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cannonau with Si₃N₄ reduced the growth and sporulation of P. viticola by 80–90%, with complete protection observed in select trials. Unlike traditional fungicides, SINTX's Si₃N₄ formulation offers broad-spectrum antimicrobial action without damaging plant tissue or the surrounding environment—especially relevant as copper-based fungicides face increasing regulatory restrictions. (see: Frontiers in Microbiology, 2021) 'Silicon nitride doesn't just inactivate pathogens—it can also prevent most infections altogether,' said Eric Olson, Chairman and CEO of SINTX. 'In our recent studies, silicon nitride exhibited no phytotoxicity, helped buffer environmental pH, and showed no evidence of cytotoxicity in humans. It's a sustainable, high-performance alternative to copper and chemical-based treatments in viticulture.' For more information about SINTX Agribiotech or silicon nitride applications in medical or agriculture applications, please visit About SINTX Technologies, in Salt Lake City, Utah, SINTX Technologies is an advanced ceramics company that develops and commercializes materials, components, and technologies for medical and agribiotech applications. SINTX is a global leader in the research, development, and manufacturing of silicon nitride, and its products have been implanted in humans since 2008. Over the past several years, SINTX has utilized strategic acquisitions and alliances to enter new markets. For more information on SINTX Technologies or its materials platform, visit Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ('PSLRA') that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: "anticipate," "believe," "project," "estimate," "expect," "strategy,' "future," "likely," "may," "should," "will" and similar references to future periods. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management's current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Forward looking statements include our belief that Si₃N₄ will be a sustainable, high-performance alternative to copper and chemical-based treatments in viticulture, our ability to position silicon nitride technology at the intersection of sustainability and high-performance crop protection , and our ability to eventually develop an effective crop protection product and successfully market such a product. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, difficulty in commercializing ceramic technologies and development of new product opportunities. A discussion of other risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements can be found in SINTX's Risk Factors disclosure in its Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 19, 2025, and in SINTX's other filings with the SEC. SINTX undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report, except as required by law. Business and Media Inquiries for SINTX:SINTX Technologies801.839.3502IR@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
NDTV
09-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Bowel Problems? Curd Rice Might Be The Gut-Friendly Hero You Need
Let us be honest, digestive issues show up uninvited and mess with everything. A late-night chaat craving, a round of antibiotics, or your gut just going rogue for no reason, and suddenly, your whole day is off track. You feel drained, out of sync, and stuck near a bathroom. The go-to fix? A quick grab from the medicine shelf - sachets, syrups, probiotics. But the real relief might not come with a price tag. It could be sitting in your fridge already: curd rice. This dish is not just something grandma insisted on. Over time, curd rice has stepped into the spotlight for being more than comfort food. It is now a go-to home remedy for constipation, loose motions, and even post-antibiotic gut care. Want to know why it works so well for digestion? Let us break down how curd rice can support gut health every day, not just when your stomach throws a tantrum. Also Read: From Curd Rice to Kadhi Chawal: 5 Classic Indian Curd-Based Comfort Foods Of All Times Why Curd Rice Is A Natural Remedy For Gut Health A creamy mix of rice and curd, finished with a tadka of mustard seeds and curry leaves, this South Indian staple is loved all over India. Some like it plain, some load it with toppings, but the goal stays the same - it cools the system and feels like a warm hug for your insides. The recipe might change from state to state, but the effect is universal: it calms your gut like few things can. Curd In Curd Rice: A Natural Source Of Probiotics The book 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing House puts it simply-"Live cultures in dahi can improve the microflora of the gut, which, in turn, helps ease symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and lowers the incidence of ulcers." Nutrition expert Dr. Rupali Datta explains it further: "Curd is rich in probiotics, which aid digestion and treat an upset tummy. It also contains calcium, which not only strengthens bones but also enhances nutrient absorption, further promoting digestion." How Rice Supports Digestion With Prebiotics Dietitian Manpreet Kalra points out that parboiled rice acts as a strong prebiotic, giving the helpful bacteria in your digestive system something to munch on. Even better, once rice is cooked and cooled, it creates resistant starch - a type of fibre that supports gut-friendly bacteria. Fermented Rice For IBS And Bowel Health A study in Frontiers in Microbiology found that fermented rice produces probiotics, too, and they help bring back the balance of good bacteria in the digestive tract. These probiotics are also said to reduce symptoms of IBS, like bloating, cramps, and irregular bowel habits. Also Read: 5 Mistakes To Avoid While Making Curd Rice Image Credit: Pexels Easy Curd Rice Recipes For Digestion And Gut Health: Curd Rice Recipe 1: Basic But Brilliant Curd Rice Step 1: Cook rice, then let it cool down fully. Step 2: Add curd and a bit of salt, and mix it all well. Step 3: Make a tempering with mustard seeds, peanuts, curry leaves, red chillies, hing, and chana dal. Step 4: Pour the tadka into the curd rice and give it one last mix. Step 5: Top with pomegranate seeds and pair with papad or pickle. Curd Rice Recipe 2: Fermented Curd Rice For Gut-friendly Mornings Step 1: Cook rice and leave it soaked in water overnight. Step 2: The next morning, drain and mix with curd and salt. Step 3: Prepare the usual tadka and stir it into the rice. Step 4: Eat it for breakfast on warm days and keep your stomach cool and calm. Also Read: Leftover Rice? These 5 South Indian Recipes Will Save The Day Why Curd Rice Deserves A Spot In Your Gut Health Routine Curd rice does more than taste good. It is a smart, gut-loving choice that bridges age-old food habits with science-backed health benefits. Whether you are recovering from stomach issues or just want to support your digestive system naturally, this dish delivers. The next time your stomach acts up, do not reach for a pill. Grab a bowl of curd rice instead - it is the kind of comfort your gut actually needs. Advertisement Comments About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Curd Rice Curd Rice For Gut Tips For Healthy Bowel Movement Show full article Comments
NDTV
02-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Is Kombucha Beneficial For Your Gut Health?
Kombucha, a fizzy fermented tea, has emerged as a popular health beverage across the globe. Touted as a natural probiotic, kombucha is often linked to improved digestion, better gut health, and even immune support. Made by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), this ancient drink has been consumed for centuries. But does it really deliver on its health promises, especially for the gut? According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other studies, kombucha may play a supportive role in gut microbiome diversity. Let's explore the science behind this fermented favourite. How kombucha may support gut health Kombucha contains natural probiotics and bioactive compounds that may help balance gut bacteria and enhance digestion. During fermentation, beneficial bacteria and organic acids are produced, which can aid the gut microbiome. According to a review published in Frontiers in Microbiology, fermented foods like kombucha can positively influence gut flora, which is essential for nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall digestive well-being. 1. Rich in natural probiotics The fermentation process produces several strains of live beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Acetobacter. These probiotics may help restore the balance of gut flora, especially after antibiotic use or poor dietary habits. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to better digestion, reduced inflammation, and even mental well-being. However, the quantity and strains vary by brand and brew method. 2. May help with digestion Kombucha contains enzymes and organic acids like acetic acid and gluconic acid, which may assist in breaking down food more efficiently. Anecdotal evidence and some early studies suggest that regular consumption of kombucha may alleviate bloating, gas, and indigestion by supporting the body's natural digestive processes. 3. Antioxidants that promote gut lining health Green or black tea, the base for kombucha, is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. These compounds can protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and inflammation. Damage to the gut lining is often associated with leaky gut syndrome, food sensitivities, and autoimmune responses, making antioxidant support beneficial for long-term gut health. 4. Supports immune function via the gut About 70% of your immune system resides in your gut. A healthy gut microbiome can help modulate immune responses. The probiotics in kombucha may help maintain this balance, reducing your susceptibility to infections and inflammatory responses. While more human clinical trials are needed, the existing data is promising. 5. May aid in the prevention of gut dysbiosis Gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbes, has been linked to several conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), obesity, and even depression. Regular intake of fermented foods, including kombucha, may help prevent or correct such imbalances. A study in Nutrients (2021) reported that probiotic-rich foods could improve symptoms in individuals with mild digestive disorders. 6. Potential prebiotic effect While kombucha is primarily known for probiotics, it may also contain small amounts of prebiotics depending on its ingredients. Prebiotics are plant fibres that feed good bacteria. Ingredients like ginger or fruit add-ins in kombucha may enhance this effect, offering additional gut support. 7. Things to consider before consuming Despite its benefits, kombucha is not suitable for everyone. Unpasteurised kombucha can pose a risk for pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, or those sensitive to caffeine or alcohol. Additionally, many commercial versions contain added sugars, which can negate its health benefits. Always read labels and consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. Kombucha offers potential gut health benefits, largely due to its probiotic content and natural fermentation. While more large-scale human studies are needed, current evidence supports its role as a gut-friendly beverage when consumed in moderation. For optimal results, pair kombucha with a fibre-rich diet and other fermented foods. As always, individual needs vary, consult a doctor before making it a daily habit. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
There's A Very Real Chance Your Kitchen Sink Is Crawling With Bacteria — Even If It Looks Clean
Think of all the things that happen in your kitchen sink. It's where you wash your hands, scrub dishes, rinse fruits and vegetables, and drain packages of raw meat. You might also use it to clean paintbrushes and lots of other things or give your puppy a bath. 'Any germs on these items will wash off, and most will go down the drain — but some can get caught in the crevices' or the garbage disposal, if you have one, explained Lester Schonberger, associate extension specialist at the Virginia Tech Department of Food Science and Technology. Once they're there, germs can survive and thrive, as bacteria often love warm, moist environments like your kitchen sink. Depending on how you use it, Schonberger said, you could find 'any number of microorganisms' in the sink, and they have the potential to make you sick. Because of this, experts say, the kitchen sink is among the germiest spots in your kitchen. A 2023 U.S. Department of Agriculture study found that 34% of kitchen sinks were contaminated with bacteria after participants prepared breakfast with raw sausage, eggs and cantaloupe. More than a quarter of the cut-up cantaloupe was contaminated, which the USDA said likely happened when bacteria from the sink was transferred to the melon when it was washed. So should you worry about the germs in your kitchen sink? Safety experts explain why it can harbor microorganisms and how this might affect your health. While it depends on exactly what you're doing in your kitchen sink, it could be home to salmonella, E. coli and listeria — especially in the drain, which people typically don't clean and sanitize, said Kevin Roberts, director of the hospitality management program at Kansas State University. 'Pretty much any foodborne bacteria that you could think of could be harbored in that sink,' he said. Research supports the germy nature of kitchen sinks, Schonberger said. A small 2022 study of 10 households published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that most were contaminated with multiple pathogens. In another study from 2017, out of 100 homes, fecal coliforms were found in 44%, mostly in samples from kitchen sinks, and 15% tested positive for E. coli. Bacteria tend to lurk in kitchen sinks because they're the 'perfect environment' for these germs to grow, said Mitzi Baum, former CEO of Stop Foodborne Illness. There's moisture, bits of food, warmth and air, and if the sink isn't cleaned regularly, things have time to thrive. Objects typically kept in the sink, like sponges, can be another source of contamination, Roberts said. A 2011 study by the public health and safety organization NSF asked 22 families to swab household items and found that 75% of dish sponges and rags contained E. coli and salmonella, and 45% of kitchen sinks had these bacteria. Cross-contamination is the main issue with the germs in your kitchen sink, Schonberger said. 'If your sink or drain is contaminated, then we'd need to be mindful about the ways in which those bacteria may get out of the sink and into your food.' For instance, if you place a bunch of grapes in your sink to wash them or fill the sink with water to submerge leafy greens, he said, you could 'dislodge some of the bacteria onto your food' or splash water onto the countertops, contaminating that surface. E. coli, salmonella and listeria can all make people sick, Baum said. 'If given the opportunity to grow in your sink and food that is not being cooked makes contact with the sink, there is an opportunity for you to get sick,' she said. 'The food could pick up the bacteria — there's no such thing as the five-second rule. If the food is in the right conditions for too long, you could get sick.' Signs of a foodborne illness from these bacteria can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache and muscle cramps or weakness, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It can be severe — an estimated 48 million Americans get foodborne illness each year, and 3,000 die from it. People most at risk for foodborne illness (and getting severely ill) include people 65 and older, children under 5, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, Schonberger said, 'Most average adults who contract foodborne illness will experience some symptoms but should fully recover.' Simply rinsing your sink isn't enough to kill germs, Schonberger said. The water from your tap likely won't dislodge bacteria hiding out in the sink's crevices and doesn't get hot enough to kill germs. To get rid of germs and minimize cross-contamination with food, you need to clean and disinfect your sink regularly, Roberts said. 'You can't sanitize something that's not clean.' Use warm, soapy water to clean the sink, he said. The goal is to remove any dirt, debris and bits of food; use a toothbrush or toothpick to dislodge things stuck in the crevices, Schonberger said. Then, rinse out the soap and dry it with paper towels. Once dry, use a sanitizer to kill bacteria or a disinfectant, which also will kill viruses, and let the sink air dry, Schonberger said. Products with bleach or alcohol, including wipes, can disinfect and sanitize — just follow the instructions on the item's label. This guide will help you know what to look for. You can make your own sanitizer by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of 4.5% sodium hypochlorite bleach for every quart of water (or 32 fluid ounces) or disinfectant by mixing 1/2 cup of the bleach for every gallon of water, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Roberts suggests cleaning and sanitizing your kitchen sink before and after preparing meals, especially when raw meat is involved, or at least once a week. This will help you avoid cross-contamination and potentially getting sick. Remember, too, that you can't see bacteria on your kitchen sink, he emphasized. 'Just because it looks clean doesn't mean it's clean, doesn't mean it's sanitized.' If You're Wondering How Microplastics Even Get In Your Food, Read This 5 Foods And Drinks To Avoid At The Airport, According To Food Safety Experts Why You Should Seriously Consider Reheating Food Delivery That Arrives Lukewarm
Fox News
24-03-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Cooking up food in the office microwave? New study reveals shocking amount of bacteria
A study about office microwaves may have some people rethinking their leftovers for lunch. Researchers examined the differences in bacteria present in domestic spaces such as a home; in shared-domestic spaces such as an office; and in laboratories. The study, conducted by researchers in Valencia, Spain, and published in Frontiers in Microbiology, discovered over 100 species of bacteria exist within these spaces – with most of the bacteria being the types found on human skin. Some of these bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses. Fox News Digital spoke with Christine Schindler, the New York City-based CEO and co-founder of PathSpot, a health and safety operating system for restaurants and businesses that prepare and serve food, about the difference between at-home and in-office appliances. "The setting of a microwave fundamentally changes its contamination profile," she told Fox News Digital. "People rush through lunch breaks, sometimes skipping proper hand hygiene, touching communal surfaces like refrigerator handles before accessing the microwave," she added. In shared environments like this, microwaves can become bacterial transfer points, she said. These different bacteria can come from human skin, food splatter and moisture build-up. Microwaves can become bacterial transfer points. The presence of bacteria can cause stomach problems such as nausea and vomiting – and the risk increases through the "food-handling sequence," according to Schindler. "Bacterial risk isn't just about what grows in the microwave – it's about how bacteria move between hands, surfaces and food in a continuous cycle," Schindler said. Something else the researchers sought to understand is whether microwave radiation has a sterilizing effect on food or if exposure to a wide variety of food and humans had more impact on cleanliness. "Microwaves kill bacteria in food through heat, not the actual microwaves themselves," Schindler clarified. "However, this heating doesn't clean the microwave itself or address the bacteria on handles and buttons from unwashed hands," she said. "This creates a shared responsibility in food safety – you need both properly cooked food and clean microwave surfaces to break the contamination cycle." The researchers said that what they found "suggests the importance of regular cleaning practices to mitigate potential health risks, as frequent and adequate cleaning with appropriate disinfectants helps to prevent the presence of pathogens associated with these domestic environments." At home, you're typically dealing with a known group of users and established cleaning routines, something Schindler said makes the difference in maintaining a hygienic environment. "Office break rooms create more opportunities for bacterial spread," she said. "More users means more hand-to-surface contamination, often less personal accountability for cleaning and greater diversity of foods being heated." There are some simple ways to keep microwaves clean, even in the office. Schindler said to wipe down these high-touch areas regularly with food-safe disinfectants, especially in shared kitchens where many people use the same appliance. For those with more time to spare, she said, heating a bowl of water with lemon juice can loosen up any gunk inside the microwave, making removal easier.
