bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application and Prospect of Artificial Intelligence Methods in Signal Integrity Prediction and Optimization of Microsystems
Authors: Shan Guangbao , Li Guoliang , Wang Yuxuan , Xing Chaoyang , Zheng Yanwen , Yang Yintang
Published: January 2023

Microsystems are widely used in 5G, the Internet of Things, smart electronic devices and other fields, and signal integrity (SI) determines their performance. Establishing accurate and fast predictive models and intelligent optimization models for SI in microsystems is extremely essential. Recently, neural networks (NNs) and heuristic optimization algorithms have been widely used to predict the SI performance of microsystems. This paper systematically summarizes the neural network methods applied in the prediction of microsystem SI performance, including artificial neural network (ANN), deep neural network (DNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), etc., as well as intelligent algorithms applied in the optimization of microsystem SI, including genetic algorithm (GA), differential evolution (DE), deep partition tree Bayesian optimization (DPTBO), two stage Bayesian optimization (TSBO), etc., and compares and discusses the characteristics and application fields of the current applied methods. The future development prospects are also predicted. Finally, the article is summarized.
Vertical Nanoscale Vacuum Channel Triodes Based on the Material System of Vacuum Electronics
Authors: Han Panyang , Li Xinghui , Cai Jun , Feng Jinjun
Published: January 2023

Nanoscale vacuum channel triodes realize the vacuum-like transmission of electrons in the atmosphere because the transmission distance is less than the mean free path of electrons in air. This new hybrid device is the deep integration of vacuum electronics technology, micro-nano electronics technology, and optoelectronic technology. It has the advantages of both vacuum and solid-state devices and is considered to be the next generation of vacuum electronic devices. In this work, vertical nanoscale vacuum channel diodes and triodes with edge emission were fabricated using advanced micro-nano processing technology. The device materials were all based on the vacuum electronics material system. The field emission characteristics of the devices were investigated. The diode continued emitting at a bias voltage from 0 to 50 V without failure, and the current variation under different vacuum degrees was better than 2.1%. The field emission characteristics of the devices were evaluated over a wide pressure range of between 10−7 Pa and 105 Pa, and the results could explain the vacuum-like behavior of the devices when operating in air. The current variation of the triode is better than 6.1% at Vg = 8 V and Va = 10 V.
Miniaturized Quad-Band Filter Design Using Substrate Integrated Coaxial Cavity
Authors: Hsu Chung-I G. , Hong Wanchu , Chen Mingchih , Tu Wei-Chun , Su Gwan-Wei , Ho Min-Hua
Published: January 2023

We propose a miniaturized quad-band filter (QBF), designed using substrate-integrated coaxial cavities (SICCs). The employed SICC structure consists of two vertically stacked substrates with a large circular patch embedded in between. The embedded patch is segmented unevenly into four pieces, which are shorted to the cavity’s bottom wall through one or two blind vias. This SICC structure exhibits four independently controlled resonances with frequencies much lower than the frequency of its conventional SIW cavity counterpart, thus achieving size reduction. A sample quad-band filter is designed and fabricated for experimental measurement. Reasonably good agreement between measured and simulated data is observed.
Syringe Paper-Based Analytical Device for Thiamazole Detection by Hedysarum Polysaccharides-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Dan , Ji Jiahui , Guo Xinran , Gou Sanhu , Chen Xinyue
Published: January 2023

In this paper, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully green-synthesized for the first time using Hedysarum polysaccharide (HPS) as a reducing agent, stabilizer, and modifier (HPS-AgNP). Thiamazole could induce the aggregation of HPS-AgNPs in the residue on a cellulose membrane. A syringe paper-based analytical device was creatively established to ensure the tightness, stability, and good repeatability of the test. The color information remaining on the cellulose membrane was converted into gray values using ImageJ software. Hence, the linear regression curve for thiamazole was established as y = 1 + 0.179x with a detection limit (LOD) of 24.6 nM in the relatively wide range of 0.1~10 μM. This syringe paper-based analytical device was successfully applied to the biological samples.
Mapping Genetic Variation in Arabidopsis in Response to Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterium Azoarcus olearius DQS-4T
Authors: Plucani do Amaral Fernanda , Wang Juexin , Williams Jacob , Tuleski Thalita R. , Joshi Trupti , Ferreira Marco A. R. , Stacey Gary
Published: January 2023

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) can enhance plant health by facilitating nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation, protection from pathogens, stress tolerance and/or boosting plant productivity. The genetic determinants that drive the plant–bacteria association remain understudied. To identify genetic loci highly correlated with traits responsive to PGPB, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using an Arabidopsis thaliana population treated with Azoarcus olearius DQS-4T. Phenotypically, the 305 Arabidopsis accessions tested responded differently to bacterial treatment by improving, inhibiting, or not affecting root system or shoot traits. GWA mapping analysis identified several predicted loci associated with primary root length or root fresh weight. Two statistical analyses were performed to narrow down potential gene candidates followed by haplotype block analysis, resulting in the identification of 11 loci associated with the responsiveness of Arabidopsis root fresh weight to bacterial inoculation. Our results showed considerable variation in the ability of plants to respond to inoculation by A. olearius DQS-4T while revealing considerable complexity regarding statistically associated loci with the growth traits measured. This investigation is a promising starting point for sustainable breeding strategies for future cropping practices that may employ beneficial microbes and/or modifications of the root microbiome.
Epigenetic Targets and Pathways Linked to SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Pathology
Authors: Rabaan Ali A. , Aljeldah Mohammed , Shammari Basim R. Al , Alsubki Roua A. , Alotaibi Jawaher , Alhashem Yousef N. , Alali Neda A. , Sulaiman Tarek , Alsalem Zainab , Bajunaid Huda A. , Garout Mohammed , Alsaffar Heba A. , Almuthree Souad A. , Hudhaiah Doha , Alzaher Azhar M. , Alshaikh Fatimah A. , Alshengeti Amer , Najim Mustafa A. , Farahat Ramadan Abdelmoez , Mohapatra Ranjan K.
Published: January 2023

The scale at which the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic has spread remains enormous. Provided the genetic makeup of the virus and humans is readily available, the quest for knowing the mechanism and epidemiology continues to prevail across the entire scientific community. Several aspects, including immunology, molecular biology, and host-pathogen interaction, are continuously being dug into for preparing the human race for future pandemics. The exact reasons for vast differences in symptoms, pathophysiological implications of COVID-infections, and mortality differences remain elusive. Hence, researchers are also looking beyond traditional genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics approach, especially entrusting the environmental regulation of the genetic landscape of COVID–human interactions. In line with these questions lies a critical process called epigenetics. The epigenetic perturbations in both host and parasites are a matter of great interest to unravel the disparities in COVID-19 mortalities and pathology. This review provides a deeper insight into current research on the epigenetic landscape of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans and potential targets for augmenting the ongoing investigation. It also explores the potential targets, pathways, and networks associated with the epigenetic regulation of processes involved in SARS-CoV-2 pathology.
The Diversity of Escherichia coli Pathotypes and Vaccination Strategies against This Versatile Bacterial Pathogen
Authors: Pokharel Pravil , Dhakal Sabin , Dozois Charles M.
Published: January 2023

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gram-negative bacillus and resident of the normal intestinal microbiota. However, some E. coli strains can cause diseases in humans, other mammals and birds ranging from intestinal infections, for example, diarrhea and dysentery, to extraintestinal infections, such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, meningitis, and sepsis. In terms of morbidity and mortality, pathogenic E. coli has a great impact on public health, with an economic cost of several billion dollars annually worldwide. Antibiotics are not usually used as first-line treatment for diarrheal illness caused by E. coli and in the case of bloody diarrhea, antibiotics are avoided due to the increased risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome. On the other hand, extraintestinal infections are treated with various antibiotics depending on the site of infection and susceptibility testing. Several alarming papers concerning the rising antibiotic resistance rates in E. coli strains have been published. The silent pandemic of multidrug-resistant bacteria including pathogenic E. coli that have become more difficult to treat favored prophylactic approaches such as E. coli vaccines. This review provides an overview of the pathogenesis of different pathotypes of E. coli, the virulence factors involved and updates on the major aspects of vaccine development against different E. coli pathotypes.
Off-Design Analysis Method for Compressor Fouling Fault Diagnosis of Helicopter Turboshaft Engine
Authors: Bazmi Farshid , Rahimi Afshin
Published: January 2023

Fouling, caused by the adhesion of fine materials to the blades of the compressor’s last stages, changes the airfoil’s shape and function and the inlet flow angle on the blades. As the fouling increases, the range of influence increases, and the mass flow rate and overall engine efficiency reduce. Therefore, the compressor is choked at lower speeds. This study aims to simulate compressor performance during off-design conditions due to fouling and to present an approach for modeling faults in diagnostic and health monitoring systems. A computational fluid dynamics analysis is carried out to evaluate the proposed method on General Electric’s T700-GE turboshaft engine, and the performance is evaluated at different flight conditions. The results show promising outcomes with an average accuracy of 88% that would help future turboshaft health monitoring systems.
Velocity-Oriented Dynamic Control–Display Gain for Kinesthetic Interaction with a Grounded Force-Feedback Device
Authors: Li Zhenxing , Kangas Jari , Raisamo Roope
Published: January 2023

Kinesthetic interaction is an important interaction method for virtual reality. Current kinesthetic interaction using a grounded force-feedback device, however, is still considered difficult and time-consuming because of the interaction difficulty in a three-dimensional space. Velocity-oriented dynamic control–display (CD) gain has been used to improve user task performance with pointing devices, such as the mouse. In this study, we extended the application of this technique to kinesthetic interaction and examined its effects on interaction speed, positioning accuracy and touch perception. The results showed that using this technique could improve interaction speed without affecting positioning accuracy in kinesthetic interaction. Velocity-oriented dynamic CD gain could negatively affect touch perception in softness while using large gains. However, it is promising and particularly suitable for kinesthetic tasks that do not require high accuracy in touch perception.
Improving Stability of Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Gravure-Printed Carbon Nanotube-Based Thin Film Transistors via R2R Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor-Deposited Silicon Nitride
Authors: Shrestha Sagar , Parajuli Sajjan , Park Jinhwa , Yang Hao , Cho Tae-Yeon , Eom Ji-Ho , Cho Seong-Keun , Lim Jongsun , Cho Gyoujin , Jung Younsu
Published: January 2023

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have an advantage in printing thin film transistors (TFTs) due to their high carrier mobility, excellent chemical stability, mechanical flexibility, and compatibility with solution-based processing. Thus, the printed SWCNT-based TFTs (pSWCNT-TFTs) showed significant technological potential such as integrated circuits, conformable sensors, and display backplanes. However, the long-term environmental stability of the pSWCNT-TFTs hinders their commercialization. Thus, to extend the stability of the pSWCNT-TFTs, such devices should be passivated with low water and oxygen permeability. Herein, we introduced the silicon nitride (SiNx) passivation method on the pSWCNT-TFTs via a combination of roll-to-roll (R2R) gravure and the roll-to-roll plasma-enhanced vapor deposition (R2R-PECVD) process at low temperature (45 °C). We found that SiNx-passivated pSWCNT-TFTs showed ± 0.50 V of threshold voltage change at room temperature for 3 days and ±1.2 V of threshold voltage change for 3 h through a Temperature Humidity Test (85/85 test: Humidity 85%/Temperature 85 °C) for both p-type and n-type pSWCNT-TFTs. In addition, we found that the SiNx-passivated p-type and n-type pSWCNT-TFT-based CMOS-like ring oscillator, or 1-bit code generator, operated well after the 85/85 test for 24 h.
Dietary Responses of Dementia-Related Genes Encoding Metabolic Enzymes
Authors: Parnell Laurence D , Magadmi Rozana , Zwanger Sloane , Shukitt-Hale Barbara , Lai Chao-Qiang , Ordovás José M
Published: January 2023

The age-related loss of the cognitive function is a growing concern for global populations. Many factors that determine cognitive resilience or dementia also have metabolic functions. However, this duality is not universally appreciated when the action of that factor occurs in tissues external to the brain. Thus, we examined a set of genes involved in dementia, i.e., those related to vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and the human metabolism for activity in 12 metabolically active tissues. Mining the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) data showed that most of these metabolism–dementia (MD) genes (62 of 93, 67%) exhibit a higher median expression in any of the metabolically active tissues than in the brain. After identifying that several MD genes served as blood-based biomarkers of longevity in other studies, we examined the impact of the intake of food, nutrients, and other dietary factors on the expression of MD genes in whole blood in the Framingham Offspring Study (n = 2134). We observed positive correlations between flavonoids and HMOX1, taurine and UQCRC1, broccoli and SLC10A2, and myricetin and SLC9A8 (p < 2.09 × 10−4). In contrast, dairy protein, palmitic acid, and pie were negatively correlated, respectively, with the expression of IGF1R, CSF1R, and SLC9A8, among others (p < 2.92 × 10−4). The results of this investigation underscore the potential contributions of metabolic enzyme activity in non-brain tissues to the risk of dementia. Specific epidemiological or intervention studies could be designed using specific foods and nutrients or even dietary patterns focused on these foods and nutrients that influence the expression of some MD genes to verify the findings presented here.
The Connection between Non-Alcoholic Fatty-Liver Disease, Dietary Behavior, and Food Literacy in German Working Adults
Authors: Blaschke Simon , Schad Nele , Schnitzius Melina , Pelster Klaus , Mess Filip
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: German working adults are particularly at risk of non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease (NAFLD), which is connected to increased cardiovascular and overall morbidity and mortality. Dietary behavior (DB) and health knowledge are crucial factors in the conceptual NAFLD model, which can directly influence this disease. These two factors largely align with the concept of food literacy (FL), which deals with proficiency in food-related skills and knowledge to promote healthy DB and prevent NAFLD. However, the potential of FL for NAFLD prevention remains unknown, because FL has not been tested in connection with DB and NAFLD. Therefore, the current study examined the direct and indirect connections between FL, DB, and NAFLD in a mediation model. (2) Methods: A total of 372 working adults (38% female) participated in a cross-sectional study by completing self-report questionnaires on FL and DB. In addition, an independent physician assessed the fatty-liver index (FLI) as an indicator of NAFLD in an occupational health checkup. (3) Results: The mediation model revealed that FL had a direct moderate connection with DB (β = 0.25, p < 0.01), but no direct connection with the FLI (β = −0.05, p = 0.36). However, DB showed a small to moderate connection with the FLI (β = −0.14, p = 0.01), which could indicate the indirect-only mediation of the relationship between FL and NAFLD via DB. (4) Conclusion: These results confirm the value of DB for the prevention of NAFLD. In addition, FL might be a vital component for improving DB and thereby function as a resource in the prevention of NAFLD. However, future longitudinal research is needed to substantiate the value of FL with respect to NAFLD.
The Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) as a Useful Tool to Identify Female Triathletes at Risk for Menstrual Disorders Related to Low Energy Availability
Authors: Witkoś Joanna , Błażejewski Grzegorz , Gierach Marcin
Published: January 2023

Background: Nutrition in sport is a priority; it is the basis for maintaining optimal health and a prerequisite for the high performance necessary for competitions. The aim of this study was to assess low energy availability and its possible consequences among female triathletes by using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Methods: The study involved 30 female triathetes. The LEAF-Q was used in the study. An analysis of the body composition was carried out with the seca device mBCA 515 medical Body Composition Analyzer. Results: Of the 30 female triathletes studied, 23.3% had a monthly cycle disorder, defined as an amenorrhea state for more than 90 days. No differences were found in injury rates or training days lost to injury due to menstrual disturbances. Menstruation changes were significantly greater due to increases in exercise intensity, frequency, and duration in the group experiencing menstrual disturbances (85.7 [95% CIs: 42.1–99.6] vs. 8.7 [95% CIs: 1.1–28.0]). The menstrual disorder group had a greater incidence of their periods stopping for more than 3 months than the group without menstrual disturbances. Conclusions: The female triathletes did not show abnormalities in body weight or composition, and these were not related to the incidence of menstrual disturbances. However, 20% of the triathletes either had, at the time of the study, or had had in the past monthly cycle disorders that could indicate an immediate risk of low energy availability. The LEAF-Q identified 10% of the triathletes as at risk (score > 8) of low energy availability and the physiological and performance consequences related to relative energy deficiency in sports (RED-S).
Nutritional Biomarkers as Predictors of Dysphonia Severity in Patients with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Kim Ji Min , Yoo Seung Don , Park Eo Jin
Published: January 2023

Dysphonia and malnutrition are major problems in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke. Tools to assess dysphonia severity include the dysphonia severity index (DSI) and maximum phonation time (MPT). This study aimed to investigate whether the nutritional biomarkers transferrin, albumin, and prealbumin could be predictors of dysphonia severity. A retrospective analysis was conducted between January 2018 and October 2022. A total of 180 patients who had suffered an ischemic stroke were included. Serum transferrin, albumin, and prealbumin levels were significantly correlated with DSI and MPT levels. In a multiple regression analysis, prealbumin and transferrin were significant predictors of DSI, whereas only prealbumin was a significant predictor of MPT. Serum transferrin, albumin, and prealbumin levels in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke may correlate with dysphonia severity as assessed using DSI and MPT. These results may provide objective evidence that nutritional biomarkers affect dysphonia severity.
The Hypoglycemic and Hypocholesterolemic Activity of Dioscorea deltoidea, Tribulus terrestris and Panax japonicus Cell Culture Biomass in Rats with High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Povydysh Maria N. , Titova Maria V. , Ivkin Dmitry Yu. , Krasnova Marina V. , Vasilevskaya Ekaterina R. , Fedulova Liliya V. , Ivanov Igor M. , Klushin Andrey G. , Popova Elena V. , Nosov Alexander M.
Published: January 2023

Obesity, and its consequences for human health, is a huge and complicated problem that has no simple solution. The constant search for natural and safe compounds with systemic action that can be used for obesity prophylactics and treatment is hampered by the limited availability and variable quality of biomass of wild medicinal plants. Plant cell biotechnology is an alternative approach for the sustainable production of vegetative biomass or individual phytochemicals with high therapeutic potential. In this study, the suspension cell biomass of the medicinal plants, Dioscorea deltoidea Wall., Tribulus terrestris L., and Panax japonicus (T. Nees) C.A. Mey, produced in 20 L and 630 L bioreactors, were tested for therapeutic effects in rat models with alimentary-induced obesity. Three-month intake of water infusions of dry cell biomass (100 mg/g body weight) against the background of a hypercaloric diet reduced weight gain and the proportion of fat mass in the obese animals. In addition, cell biomass preparation reduced the intracellular dehydration and balanced the amounts of intra- and extracellular fluids in the body as determined by bioimpedance spectroscopy. A significant decrease in the glucose and cholesterol levels in the blood was also observed as a result of cell biomass administration for all species. Hypocholesterolemic activity reduced in the line P. japonicus > D. deltoidea > T. terrestris/liraglutide > intact group > control group. By the sum of parameters tested, the cell culture of D. deltoidea was considered the most effective in mitigating diet-induced obesity, with positive effects sometimes exceeding those of the reference drug liraglutide. A safety assessment of D. deltoidea cell phytopreparation showed no toxic effect on the reproductive function of the animals and their offspring. These results support the potential application of the biotechnologically produced cell biomass of medicinal plant species as safe and effective natural remedies for the treatment of obesity and related complications, particularly for the long-term treatment and during pregnancy and lactation periods when conventional treatment is often contraindicated.
Fruit Extract of Sechium chinantlense (Lira & F. Chiang) Induces Apoptosis in the Human Cervical Cancer HeLa Cell Line
Authors: Rivera-Martínez Ana Rocío , Aguiñiga-Sánchez Itzen , Cadena-Iñiguez Jorge , Soto-Cruz Isabel , Monroy-García Alberto , Gómez-García Guadalupe , Ledesma-Martínez Edgar , Weiss-Steider Benny , Santiago-Osorio Edelmiro
Published: January 2023

Sechium edule (Cucurbitaceae) is a commercial species of chayote and is just one of several species in the genus Sechium, whose extracts inhibit proliferation in tumor cell lines. The capacity of the wild species Sechium chinantlense (SCH) as an antitumor agent is unknown, as is the mechanism of action. In the present study, HeLa cervical cancer and HaCaT normal cell lines were treated with SCH and cell proliferation was inhibited in both cell lines in a dose-dependent manner similar to the effect of the antineoplastic agent cisplatin (Cis). Additionally, SCH arrested cell cycle progression but only in HeLa cells and induced apoptosis, as shown by phosphatidylserine translocation and caspase-3 activation, while Cis did so in both cell lines. Exploration of the mechanism of action of SCH in HeLa cells suggests that apoptosis was mediated by the intrinsic signaling pathway since there was no activation of caspase-8, but there was a release of cytochrome-c. These findings suggest that the SCH extract has the potential to selectively kill tumor cells by promoting apoptosis, without harming nontumor cells.
Contribution of Proteins to the Latin American Diet: Results of the ELANS Study
Authors: Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Yépez García Martha Cecilia , Cortés Sanabria Lilia Yadira , Hernández Pablo , Sifontes Yaritza , Ramírez Guillermo , Vásquez Maura , Gómez Georgina , Liria-Domínguez María Reyna , Rigotti Attilio , Fisberg Mauro , Kovaslkys Irina , Landaeta-Jiménez Maritza
Published: January 2023

Dietary protein intake is vital to life. Here we sought to characterize dietary sources of protein in eight Latin American countries. Survey data were collected for Estudio Latinoamericano de Nutrición y Salud (ELANS); participants were from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela (n = 9218, 15–65 years old). The primary aim of this analysis was to quantify per-person daily protein consumption by country and sociodemographic factors. Secondary aims: to quantify proportional intake of proteins by source, amount and processing, and to determine the adequacy of protein/essential amino acid intake. Younger groups (adolescents 15–19 years, adults 20–33 years) had the highest intake of proteins; middle-aged adults (34–49 years) had a lower intake, and older adults (50–65 years) had a strikingly lower intake. Protein consumption was higher in men than women. Animal proteins comprised nearly 70% of total daily protein intake in Argentina and Venezuela, contrasting with <60% in Peru, Chile, and Costa Rica. Brazil and Venezuela showed the highest protein intake within the highest education level. The higher the socioeconomic level, the higher the protein intake, except for Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Proportional intake of animal- and plant-based protein generally reflected the food availability by country. This study presents a pre-pandemic regional baseline and offers a perspective for future studies of changes related to government policies, climate, and dietary practices.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Promotes Recovery of the Colon Barrier in Septic Mice through Accelerating ISCs Regeneration
Authors: Chen Lufang , Li Shumin , Peng Chunting , Gui Qifeng , Li Jinyou , Xu Zherong , Yang Yunmei
Published: January 2023

Disruption of the intestinal barrier is both the cause and result of sepsis. The proliferation and differentiation of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) promote the regenerative nature of intestinal epithelial cells, repairing the injured intestinal mucosal barrier; however, it is uncertain whether the recovery effects mediated by the ISCs are related to the gut microbiota. This research found that the survival rate of septic mice was improved with a Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) treatment. Furthermore, an increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis in colon epithelial cells were observed in the LGG-treated septic mice. In vitro, we found that a LGG supernatant was effective in maintaining the colonoid morphology and proliferation under the damage of TNF-α. Both in the mice colon and the colonoid, the LGG-induced barrier repair process was accompanied by an increased expression of Lgr5+ and lysozyme+ cells. This may be attributed to the upregulation of the IL-17, retinol metabolism, NF-kappa B and the MAPK signaling pathways, among which, Tnfaip3 and Nfkbia could be used as two potential biomarkers for LGG in intestinal inflammation therapy. In conclusion, our finding suggests that LGG protects a sepsis-injured intestinal barrier by promoting ISCs regeneration, highlighting the protective mechanism of oral probiotic consumption in sepsis.
Daily Energy Intake Distribution and Cognitive Performance in Non-Demented Individuals
Authors: Brikou Dora , Charisis Sokratis , Drouka Archontoula , Christodoulakou Stavroula Myrto , Ntanasi Eva , Mamalaki Eirini , Constadinides Vasilios C. , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Yannakoulia Mary
Published: January 2023

Cognitive disorders have become important public health issues around the world. Studies evaluating the association between cognitive decline and food timing are lacking. The objective of this study was to examine the potential association between energy intake distribution during the day and cognitive performance in cognitively healthy and mildly cognitive impaired individuals. Data were derived from the ongoing Albion study which includes people aged 40 years or older who have a positive family history of cognitive disorder or concern about their cognitive status. A thorough dietary and cognitive assessment was performed. Participants consuming low energy intake at the beginning of the day or high energy at the end of the day had higher cognitive function compared to participants characterized by the opposite pattern. This trend remained statistically significant even after adjustment for potential confounders (p = 0.043). This study suggests that individuals with worse cognitive function may choose to eat earlier during the day, when cognitive performance is better, and it might be hypothesized that a meal pattern characterized by high energy consumption at the beginning of the day or low energy at the end of the day could be a marker of cognitive impairment.
Association between Coffee Consumption and Brain MRI Parameters in the Hamburg City Health Study
Authors: Mayer Carola , Nägele Felix L. , Petersen Marvin , Schell Maximilian , Aarabi Ghazal , Beikler Thomas , Borof Katrin , Frey Benedikt M. , Nikorowitsch Julius , Senftinger Juliana , Walther Carolin , Wenzel Jan-Per , Zyriax Birgit-Christiane , Cheng Bastian , Thomalla Götz
Published: January 2023

Despite associations of regular coffee consumption with fewer neurodegenerative disorders, its association with microstructural brain alterations is unclear. To address this, we examined the association of coffee consumption with brain MRI parameters representing vascular brain damage, neurodegeneration, and microstructural integrity in 2316 participants in the population-based Hamburg City Health Study. Cortical thickness and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) load were measured on FLAIR and T1-weighted images. Microstructural white matter integrity was quantified as peak width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD) on diffusion-weighted MRI. Daily coffee consumption was assessed in five groups (<1 cup, 1–2 cups, 3–4 cups, 5–6 cups, >6 cups). In multiple linear regressions, we examined the association between brain MRI parameters and coffee consumption (reference group <1 cup). After adjustment for covariates, 3–4 cups of daily coffee were associated with lower PSMD (p = 0.028) and higher cortical thickness (p = 0.015) compared to <1 cup. Moreover, 1–2 cups per day was also associated with lower PSMD (p = 0.022). Associations with WMH load or other groups of coffee consumption were not significant (p > 0.05). The findings indicate that regular coffee consumption is positively associated with microstructural white matter integrity and cortical thickness. Further research is necessary to determine longitudinal effects of coffee on brain microstructure.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Health-Related Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Cross-Sectional Study including Preschoolers, Children, and Adolescents from Brazil and Spain
Authors: Victoria-Montesinos Desirée , Tárraga-Marcos Almudena , Brazo-Sayavera Javier , Jiménez-López Estela , Gutiérrez-Espinoza Héctor , Panisello Royo Josefa María , Tárraga-López Pedro J. , López-Gil José Francisco
Published: January 2023

Scientific literature has suggested positive associations between the Mediterranean diet (MD) and the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in young populations. However, to our knowledge, this relationship is unexplored during a situation of social isolation (i.e., lockdown). The objective of the current study is to examine the relationship between the MD and HRQoL during the COVID-19 lockdown among preschoolers, children, and adolescents from Brazil and Spain. This cross-sectional study includes a sample of 1099 three- to seventeen-year-old participants (47.6% girls) who were recruited via social networks. The HRQoL was assessed with the EQ-5D-Y. The Quality Index for Children and Teenagers (KIDMED) questionnaire was applied to evaluate the relationship between the MD and HRQoL. The highest prevalence of reported problems was found for worried, sad, or unhappy participants (39.8%). Furthermore, the lowest proportion of HRQoL problems was observed for “mobility” (2.5%). The proportion of high adherence to the MD was 44.3%. Participants with greater MD adherence reported higher HRQoL mean scores when compared with those who did not adhere to the MD (83.7 ± 0.6 vs. 85.6 ± 0.7, respectively; p < 0.05). Adherence to the MD and especially daily fruit intake were related to higher HRQoL during the COVID-19 lockdown among Brazilian and Spanish young people aged three to seventeen years.
Chemical Characterization of Honey and Its Effect (Alone as well as with Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles) on Microbial Pathogens’ and Human Cancer Cell Lines’ Growth
Authors: Ghramh Hamed A. , Alrumman Sulaiman A. , Ahmad Irfan , Kalam Abul , Elbehairi Serag Eldin I. , Alfaify Abdulkhaleg M. , Mohammed Mohammed Elimam Ahamed , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Alfaifi Mohammad , Al-Shehri Badria M. , Alshareef Rahaf Mohammed Hussein , ALaerjani Wed Mohammed Ali , Khan Khalid Ali
Published: January 2023

The antibacterial, anticancer, and wound-healing effects of honey can vary according to the type, geographical region, honey bee species, and source of the flowers. Nanotechnology is an innovative and emerging field of science with an enormous potential role in medical, cosmetics, and industrial usages globally. Metal nanoparticles that derived from silver and range between 1 nm and 100 nm in size are called silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Much advanced research AgNPs has been conducted due to their potential antibacterial and anticancer activity, chemical stability, and ease of synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to explore the physicochemical properties of honey and the potential to use forest honey to synthesize AgNPs as well as to appraise the nanoparticles’ antimicrobial and anticancer effects. Here, we used three different percentages of forest honey (20%, 40%, and 80%) as biogenic mediators to synthesize AgNPs at room temperature. The development of AgNPs was confirmed by color change (to the naked eye) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy studies, respectively. The absorbance peak obtained between 464 to 4720 nm validated both the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band and the formation of AgNPs. Regarding the sugar profile, the contents of maltose and glucose were lower than the content of fructose. In addition, the results showed that the SPR band of AgNPs increased as the percentage of forest honey increased due to the elevation of the concentration of the bio-reducing agent. A bacterial growth kinetic assay indicated the strong antibacterial efficacy of honey with silver nanoparticles against each tested bacterial strain. Honey with nanotherapy was the most effective against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colon cancer (HCT 116) cells, with IC50s of 23.9 and 27.4 µg/mL, respectively, while being less effective against breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), with an IC50 of 32.5 µg/mL.
Extract from Sea Buckthorn Seeds—A Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Hemostasis Study; Effect of Thermal Processing on Its Chemical Content and Biological Activity In Vitro
Authors: Sławińska Natalia , Żuchowski Jerzy , Stochmal Anna , Olas Beata
Published: January 2023

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a small tree, valued for its medicinal properties throughout the ages. Sea buckthorn berries and leaves are a known source of phytochemicals and have been used in the treatment of inflammation, oedema, hypertension, ulcers, and wounds in folk medicine. Sea buckthorn seeds are natural dietary sources of various bioactive compounds as well, but the number of studies on their content and biological properties is still insufficient. For the first time, we examined the phytochemical content and biological activity of sea buckthorn seeds in vitro. We have studied the effect of two extracts—from regular (no thermal processing) and roasted (thermally processed) sea buckthorn seeds—on the levels of oxidative stress induced by H2O2/Fe2+ in plasma, coagulation times, and white thrombus formation (measured by Total Thrombus-formation Analysis System—T-TAS). We observed that sea buckthorn seeds contain diverse flavonoids, mostly glycosides of isorhamnetin, kaempferol, and quercetin, as well as smaller amounts of proanthocyanidins and catechin, triterpenoid saponins, and a number of unidentified polar and hydrophobic compounds. Both extracts inhibited lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation, but only the extract from roasted seeds decreased oxidation of thiol groups in plasma treated with H2O2/Fe2+. They did not alter coagulation times, but the extract from roasted seeds at the highest concentration (50 µg/mL) prolonged the time needed for white thrombus formation. The results indicate that sea buckthorn seeds have antioxidant activity that is not impaired by thermal processing and possess anticoagulant potential, but more research is needed in order to ascertain which compounds are responsible for these effects, especially in in vivo models.
Sun Exposure Score and Vitamin D Levels in Moroccan Women of Childbearing Age
Authors: Lhilali Ilham , Zouine Noura , Menouni Aziza , Godderis Lode , Kestemont Marie-Paule , El Midaoui Adil , El Jaafari Samir , Filali-Zegzouti Younes
Published: January 2023

Sunlight exposure is an essential source of vitamin D for many humans. However, hypovitaminosis D is a global public health problem. This study aimed to develop and validate a sun exposure score (SES) and correlate it with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in women of childbearing age. One hundred and sixty women aged 18 to 45 years residing in Meknes, Morocco, were included. A questionnaire estimating the sun exposure score and blood analysis of serum 25-OHD concentration were performed. The questionnaire’s reliability and construct validity were evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and factor analysis. Spearman’s test was used to assess the correlation between SES and 25-OHD levels. The score’s reliability and construct validity were good, with Cronbach’s alpha values >0.70 and factorial saturation ranging from 0.696 to 0.948. Serum 25-OHD levels were significantly associated with the total sun exposure score, and all SES domains (Rho was 0.615 (p < 0.0001), 0.307 (p < 0.0001), 0.605 (p < 0.0001), and 0.424 (p < 0.0001) for total SES, indoor exposure domain, outdoor exposure domain, and sun protection practice domain, respectively). In addition, median 25-OHD levels increased significantly when sun exposure was changed from insufficient to sufficient (p < 0.0001). The results suggest that the sun exposure score could be used as a clinical tool to assess vitamin D levels in women of childbearing age.
Relationship between Diet Quality and Maternal Stool Microbiota in the MUMS Australian Pregnancy Cohort
Authors: Gow Megan L. , Chua Xin-Yi , El-Omar Emad , Susic Daniella , Henry Amanda
Published: January 2023

Dietary intake during pregnancy may influence the antenatal microbiome, which is proposed to impact maternal and infant health during the pregnancy and beyond. The aim of this sub-study was to examine associations between dietary intake and microbiota diversity during pregnancy using whole metagenomic sequencing and examine associations in low-risk versus high-risk pregnancies, as well as complicated versus uncomplicated pregnancies. Pregnancy data were analysed from women participating in the MUMS cohort study in Sydney, Australia (women followed from trimester 1 of pregnancy to 1-year postpartum), who had dietary intake data at either trimester 1 or 3, assessed using the Australian Eating Survey, and a matched stool sample (n = 86). Correlations of microbial alpha diversity with dietary intake data were determined using the repeated-measures correlation, rmcorr, in R. In the combined cohort, no associations were found between diet quality or diet composition and microbial alpha diversity or beta diversity. However, trends in our analysis suggested that dietary intake of specific macro- and micronutrients may influence microbial diversity differently, depending on particular pregnancy conditions. Our findings suggest that dietary intake during pregnancy may have a variable influence on the maternal microbiota, unique to the individual maternal pregnancy phenotype. More research is needed to disentangle these associations.
The Effects of Iron Deficiency on the Gut Microbiota in Women of Childbearing Age
Authors: Seo Hoonhee , Yoon Seug Yun , ul-Haq Asad , Jo Sujin , Kim Sukyung , Rahim Md Abdur , Park Hyun-A , Ghorbanian Fatemeh , Kim Min Jung , Lee Min-Young , Kim Kyoung Ha , Lee Namsu , Won Jong-Ho , Song Ho-Yeon
Published: January 2023

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most prevalent and common nutritional deficiency worldwide and is a global health problem with significant risk, particularly among women of reproductive age. Oral iron supplementation is the most widely used and cost-effective treatment for iron deficiency and IDA. However, there are limitations regarding side effects such as enteritis, treatment compliance, and bioavailability. Intestinal microbiome characteristic research has been recently conducted to overcome these issues, but more is needed. Against this background, a metagenomics study on the 16S gene in the feces of young women vulnerable to IDA was conducted. As a result of analyzing 16 normal subjects and 15 IDA patients, significant differences in bacterial community distribution were identified. In particular, a significant decrease in Faecalibacterium was characteristic in IDA patients compared with normal subjects. Furthermore, in the case of patients who recovered from IDA following iron supplementation treatment, it was confirmed that Faecalibacterium significantly recovered to normal levels. However, no significance in beta diversity was seen compared with before treatment. There were also no differences in the beta diversity results between the recovered and normal subjects. Therefore, intestinal dysbiosis during the disease state was considered to be restored as IDA improved. Although the results were derived from a limited number of subjects and additional research is needed, the results of this study are expected to be the basis for developing treatment and prevention strategies based on host–microbiome crosstalk in IDA.
Hordenine Activated Dermal Papilla Cells and Promoted Hair Regrowth by Activating Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Caibing , Zang Kai , Tang Zexin , Yang Ting , Ye Xiyun , Dang Yongyan
Published: January 2023

Hordenine is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, fighting diabetes and resisting fibrosis and acute inflammation. However, the role of Hordenine on hair growth has not been elucidated. Here, we found that Hordenine treatments significantly enhance proliferation of primary mouse dermal-papilla cells (DPCs) and increase the activity of DPCs in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, Hordenine markedly promoted the elongation of the hair shaft in the model of in vitro-cultured mouse vibrissa follicle and accelerated hair regrowth in a mouse model of depilation-induced hair regeneration. Real-time PCR, Western Blot and immunofluorescent assays showed that nuclear β-catenin and its downstream gene expression such as Lef1, Axin2, Cyclin D1 and ALP were greatly upregulated in DPCs and mouse hair follicles after Hordenine treatments. Moreover, the increased DPCs’ proliferation and hair shaft elongation of cultured mouse vibrissa follicles induced by Hordenine treatments were rescued by a Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor, FH535. These data indicate that Hordenine can effectively enhance DPCs’ activity and accelerate hair regrowth through activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, these findings suggest Hordenine/its derivatives may be potentially used for preventing and treating alopecia in the future.
Insufficient Evidence of a Breastmilk Microbiota at Six-Weeks Postpartum: A Pilot Study
Authors: Leech Sophie M. , Gilbert Morgan C. , Clifton Vicki L. , Kumar Sailesh , Rae Kym M. , Borg Danielle , Dekker Nitert Marloes
Published: January 2023

Breastmilk is thought to influence the infant gut by supplying prebiotics in the form of human milk oligosaccharides and potentially seeding the gut with breastmilk microbes. However, the presence of a breastmilk microbiota and origins of these microbes are still debated. As a pilot study, we assessed the microbes present in expressed breastmilk at six-weeks postpartum using shotgun metagenomic sequencing in a heterogenous cohort of women who delivered by vaginal (n = 8) and caesarean delivery (n = 8). In addition, we estimated the microbial load of breastmilk at six-weeks post-partum with quantitative PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene. Breastmilk at six-weeks postpartum had a low microbial mass, comparable with PCR no-template and extraction controls. Microbes identified through metagenomic sequencing were largely consistent with skin and oral microbes, with four samples returning no identifiable bacterial sequences. Our results do not provide convincing evidence for the existence of a breastmilk microbiota at six-weeks postpartum. It is more likely that microbes present in breastmilk are sourced by ejection from the infant’s mouth and from surrounding skin, as well as contamination during sampling and processing.
Associations between School Lunch and Obesity in Korean Children and Adolescents Based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017–2019 Data: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Yeji , Son Kumhee , Kim Jieun , Lee Miji , Park Kyung-Hee , Lim Hyunjung
Published: January 2023

Obesity in children and adolescents is a serious global problem. In Korea, approximately 35% of students’ daily nutrient intake is from school lunch (SL), and all schools provide SL. However, the association between SL and obesity remains controversial. This study examined this association and the daily nutrient intake according to lunch type in Korean children and adolescents. We analyzed 1736 individuals aged 7–18 from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2017–2019), a cross-sectional study, using logistic regression analysis with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The SL group had higher energy and greater phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, carotene, vitamin B1, and niacin intake than the non-school lunch (NSL) and skipping lunch (SKL) groups. Protein intake was also higher in the SL group than in the NSL group. The SKL group had higher saturated fatty acid intake, and was thereby 2.5, 1.9, and 2.5 times more likely to have obesity, overweight and obesity, and central obesity (p = 0.0071, 0.0459, 0.0092), respectively, than the SL group. Therefore, the SL group consumed more appropriate nutrients than the NSL and SKL groups, and was less likely to become obese than the SKL group. More in-depth prospective studies are needed to elucidate the causal relationship between SL and obesity.