bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Anticancer Peptide Derived from Bryopsis plumosa Regulates Proliferation and Invasion in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Heabin , Kim Hyun-Taek , Jung Seung-Hyun , Han Jong Won , Jo Seonmi , Kim In-Gyu , Kim Rae-Kwon , Kahm Yeon-Jee , Choi Tae-Ik , Kim Cheol-Hee , Lee Jei Ha
Published: November 2023

The discovery of new highly effective anticancer drugs with few side effects is a challenge for drug development research. Natural or synthetic anticancer peptides (ACPs) represent a new generation of anticancer agents with high selectivity and specificity. The rapid emergence of chemoradiation-resistant lung cancer has necessitated the discovery of novel anticancer agents as alternatives to conventional therapeutics. In this study, we synthesized a peptide containing 22 amino acids and characterized it as a novel ACP (MP06) derived from green sea algae, Bryopsis plumosa. Using the ACP database, MP06 was predicted to possess an alpha-helical secondary structure and functionality. The anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of the MP06, determined using the cytotoxicity assay and Annexin V/propidium iodide staining kit, were significantly higher in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells than in non-cancerous lung cells. We confirmed that MP06 suppressed cellular migration and invasion and inhibited the expression of N-cadherin and vimentin, the markers of epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Moreover, MP06 effectively reduced the metastasis of tumor xenografts in zebrafish embryos. In conclusion, we suggest considering MP06 as a novel candidate for the development of new anticancer drugs functioning via the ERK signaling pathway.
Low-Molecular-Weight Fish Collagen Peptide (Valine-Glycine-Proline-Hydroxyproline-Glycine-Proline-Alanine-Glycine) Prevents Osteoarthritis Symptoms in Chondrocytes and Monoiodoacetate-Injected Rats
Authors: Cho Wonhee , Park Jeongjin , Kim Jinhee , Lee Minhee , Park So Jung , Kim Kyung Seok , Jun Woojin , Kim Ok-Kyung , Lee Jeongmin
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of low-molecular-weight fish collagen (valine-glycine-proline-hydroxyproline-glycine-proline-alanine-glycine; LMWCP) on H2O2- or LPS-treated primary chondrocytes and monoiodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis rat models. Our findings indicated that LMWCP treatment exhibited protective effects by preventing chondrocyte death and reducing matrix degradation in both H2O2-treated primary chondrocytes and cartilage tissue from MIA-induced osteoarthritis rats. This was achieved by increasing the levels of aggrecan, collagen type I, collagen type II, TIMP-1, and TIMP-3, while simultaneously decreasing catabolic factors such as phosphorylation of Smad, MMP-3, and MMP-13. Additionally, LMWCP treatment effectively suppressed the activation of inflammation and apoptosis pathways in both LPS-treated primary chondrocytes and cartilage tissue from MIA-induced osteoarthritis rats. These results suggest that LMWCP supplementation ameliorates the progression of osteoarthritis through its direct impact on inflammation and apoptosis in chondrocytes.
Recent Advances in Marine Biomaterials Tailored and Primed for the Treatment of Damaged Soft Tissues
Authors: Kang Moon Sung , Jo Hyo Jung , Jang Hee Jeong , Kim Bongju , Jung Tae Gon , Han Dong-Wook
Published: November 2023

The inherent self-repair abilities of the body often fall short when it comes to addressing injuries in soft tissues like skin, nerves, and cartilage. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have concentrated their research efforts on creating natural biomaterials to overcome this intrinsic healing limitation. This comprehensive review delves into the advancement of such biomaterials using substances and components sourced from marine origins. These marine-derived materials offer a sustainable alternative to traditional mammal-derived sources, harnessing their advantageous biological traits including sustainability, scalability, reduced zoonotic disease risks, and fewer religious restrictions. The use of diverse engineering methodologies, ranging from nanoparticle engineering and decellularization to 3D bioprinting and electrospinning, has been employed to fabricate scaffolds based on marine biomaterials. Additionally, this review assesses the most promising aspects in this field while acknowledging existing constraints and outlining necessary future steps for advancement.
Comparative Chemical Profiling and Antimicrobial/Anticancer Evaluation of Extracts from Farmed versus Wild Agelas oroides and Sarcotragus foetidus Sponges
Authors: Varamogianni-Mamatsi Despoina , Nunes Maria João , Marques Vanda , Anastasiou Thekla I. , Kagiampaki Eirini , Vernadou Emmanouela , Dailianis Thanos , Kalogerakis Nicolas , Branco Luís C. , Rodrigues Cecília M. P. , Sobral Rita G. , Gaudêncio Susana P. , Mandalakis Manolis
Published: November 2023

Marine sponges are highly efficient in removing organic pollutants and their cultivation, adjacent to fish farms, is increasingly considered as a strategy for improving seawater quality. Moreover, these invertebrates produce a plethora of bioactive metabolites, which could translate into an extra profit for the aquaculture sector. Here, we investigated the chemical profile and bioactivity of two Mediterranean species (i.e., Agelas oroides and Sarcotragus foetidus) and we assessed whether cultivated sponges differed substantially from their wild counterparts. Metabolomic analysis of crude sponge extracts revealed species-specific chemical patterns, with A. oroides and S. foetidus dominated by alkaloids and lipids, respectively. More importantly, farmed and wild explants of each species demonstrated similar chemical fingerprints, with the majority of the metabolites showing modest differences on a sponge mass-normalized basis. Furthermore, farmed sponge extracts presented similar or slightly lower antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, compared to the extracts resulting from wild sponges. Anticancer assays against human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT-116) revealed marginally active extracts from both wild and farmed S. foetidus populations. Our study highlights that, besides mitigating organic pollution in fish aquaculture, sponge farming can serve as a valuable resource of biomolecules, with promising potential in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Removal of Low-Content Impurities from Pure Al by Supergravity Combined with Semi-Solid Method
Authors: Wang Lu , Lan Xi , Wang Zhe , Guo Zhancheng
Published: November 2023

Recently, the purification technology for high-purity aluminum (Al) has become the focus and difficulty of the majority of researchers. In this study, a novel approach for removing iron (Fe) impurities from pure Al via combining the supergravity field and semi-solid refining was proposed. Various separation temperatures (T), holding times (th), and separation times (ts) were applied within a gravitational field to explore their impact on the purification process and its underlying mechanisms. The optimal conditions were achieved at T = 653 °C, th = 40 min, ts = 3 min, and a gravity coefficient G = 1000, with the loss rate of purified Al reaching up to 4.1% and the removal rate of Fe reaching 81.9%. The Fe content in pure Al was reduced from 0.32 wt.% to 0.06 wt.%. Moreover, the purified mechanism of supergravity in a semi-solid method was reported for the first time. It was concluded that supergravity could decrease the value of the effective distribution coefficient (ke), thereby promoting the continuous migration of Fe impurities at the solidification interface into the liquid phase. The Fe-rich phase in the Al melt was completely filtered to the lower part of the crucible in the supergravity field, completing the further purification of the pure Al.
Sex-Specific Relationships between HDL-Cholesterol Levels and 10-Year Mortality in Individuals with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study of South Koreans
Authors: Yang Hyun Suk , Jeong Ho Jin , Kim Hyeongsu , Lee Seungho , Hur Mina
Published: November 2023

Large epidemiological studies show U-shaped relationships between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and all-cause mortality in individuals without atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Association in those with ASCVD by sex is unclear. We examined the association between HDL-C levels and 10-year all-cause mortality in subjects (≥40 years of age) with ASCVD using the 2010 National Health Insurance Service and the National Death Registry of Korea. We categorized HDL-C levels into three groups (low: <40 mg/dL for males, <50 mg/dL for females; high: 40–90 mg/dL for males, 50–90 mg/dL for females; extremely high: >90 mg/dL) and 10 mg/dL intervals. We conducted a sex-stratified and adjusted Cox proportional hazards analysis. Out of 1,711,548 individuals (54% female, mean age 61.4 years), 10-year mortality was observed in 218,252 (12.8%). Males had a higher mortality rate than females (16.2% vs. 9.8%; p < 0.001). When adjusting for age, body mass index, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and alcohol consumption, the low and extremely high HDL-C groups had significantly higher hazard ratios for 10-year mortality compared to the high HDL-C group in males [1.183 (1.166–1.199), 1.359 (1.288–1.434)] and in females [1.153 (1.138–1.169), 1.095 (1.029–1.167)]. The frequency distribution bars for the 10-year mortality rate showed sex-specific nadirs of 50–59 mg/dL in males and 70–79 mg/dL in females. In this ASCVD cohort, the extremely high HDL-C (>90 mg/dL) group had 35.9% and 9.5% higher 10-year mortality risks than the high HDL-C group for males and females, respectively. There was a slightly U-shaped relationship between baseline HDL-C levels and a 10-year mortality rate, with earlier inflection in males than in females.
Synthesis of Quercetin-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles and Assessing Their Anti-Bacterial Potential
Authors: Sharma Ritu , Basist Parakh , Alhalmi Abdulsalam , Khan Rahmuddin , Noman Omar M. , Alahdab Ahmad
Published: November 2023

The study delves into the multifaceted potential of quercetin (Qu), a phytoconstituent found in various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, in combination with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The research explores the synthesis and characterization of AgNPs loaded with Qu and investigates their pharmaceutical applications, particularly focusing on antibacterial properties. The study meticulously evaluates Qu’s identity, and physicochemical properties, reaffirming its suitability for pharmaceutical use. The development of Qu-loaded AgNPs demonstrates their high drug entrapment efficiency, ideal particle characteristics, and controlled drug release kinetics, suggesting enhanced therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects. Furthermore, the research examines the antibacterial activity of Qu in different solvents, revealing distinct outcomes. Qu, both in methanol and water formulations, exhibits antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, with the methanol formulation displaying a slightly stronger efficacy. In conclusion, this study successfully synthesizes AgNPs loaded with Qu and highlights their potential as a potent antibacterial formulation. The findings underscore the influence of solvent choice on Qu’s antibacterial properties and pave the way for further research and development in drug delivery systems and antimicrobial agents. This innovative approach holds promise for addressing microbial resistance and advancing pharmaceutical formulations for improved therapeutic outcomes.
Effects of Optical Sampling Pulse Power, RF Power, and Electronic Back-End Bandwidth on the Performance of Photonic Analog-to-Digital Converter
Authors: Qi Junli , Chen Xin , Fu Meicheng , Zhang Hongyu , Yi Wenjun , Xu Tengfei , Su Dezhi , Zhang Hui , Wei Xiaoming , Shi Bo , Li Xiujian
Published: November 2023

The effects of optical sampling pulse power, RF power, and electronic back-end bandwidth on the performance of time- and wavelength-interleaved photonic analog-to-digital converter (PADC) with eight-channel 41.6 GHz pulses have been experimentally investigated in detail. The effective number of bits (ENOB) and peak-to-peak voltage (Vpp) of converted 10.6 GHz electrical signals were used to characterize the effects. For the 1550.116 nm channel with 5.2 G samples per second, an average pulse power of 0 to −10 dBm input to the photoelectric detector (PD) has been tested. The Vpp increased with increasing pulse power. And the ENOB for pulse power −9~−3 dBm was almost the same and all were greater than four. Meanwhile, the ENOB decreased either when the pulse power was more than −2 dBm due to the saturation of PD or when the pulse power was less than −10 dBm due to the non-ignorable noise relative to the converted weak signal. In addition, RF powers of −10~15 dBm were loaded into the Mach–Zehnder modulator (MZM). The Vpp increased with the increase in RF power, and the ENOB also showed an increasing trend. However, higher RF power can saturate the PD and induce greater nonlinearity in MZM, leading to a decrease in ENOB, while lower RF power will convert weak electrical signals with more noise, also resulting in lower ENOB. In addition, the back-end bandwidths of 0.2~8 GHz were studied in the experiments. The Vpp decreased as the back-end bandwidth decreased from 8 to 3 GHz, and remained nearly constant for the bandwidth between the Nyquist bandwidth and the subsampled RF signal frequency. The ENOB was almost the same and all greater than four for a bandwidth from 3 to 8 GHz, and gradually increased up to 6.5 as the back-end bandwidth decreased from the Nyquist bandwidth to 0.25 GHz. A bandwidth slightly larger than the Nyquist bandwidth was recommended for low costs and without compromising performance. In our experiment, the −3 to −5 dBm average pulse power, about 10 dBm RF power, and 3 GHz back-end bandwidth were recommended to accomplish both a high ENOB more than four and large Vpp. Our research provides a solution for selecting optical sampling pulse power, RF power, and electronic back-end bandwidth to achieve low-cost and high-performance PADC.
Te-rP-C Anodes Prepared Using a Scalable Milling Process for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Choi Woo Seok , Kim Minseo , Kim Il Tae
Published: November 2023

Red phosphorus (rP) is one of the most promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, owing to its high theoretical capacity. However, its low electronic conductivity and large volume expansion during cycling limit its practical applications, as it exhibits low electrochemical activity and unstable cyclability. To address these problems, tellurium (Te)-rP-C composites, which have active materials (Te, rP) that are uniformly distributed within the carbon matrix, were fabricated through a simple high-energy ball milling method. Among the three electrodes, the Te-rP (1:2)-C electrode with a 5% FEC additive delivers a high initial CE of 80% and a high reversible capacity of 734 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1. Additionally, it exhibits a high-rate capacity of 580 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 10,000 mA g−1. Moreover, a comparison of the electrolytes with and without the 5% FEC additive demonstrated improved cycling stability when the FEC additive was used. Ex situ XRD analysis demonstrated the lithiation/delithiation mechanism of Te-rP (1:2)-C after cycling based on the cyclic voltammetry results. Based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis results, a Te-rP-C composite with its notable electrochemical performance as an anode can sufficiently contribute to the battery anode industry.
A Review of Recent Innovations in Remote Health Monitoring
Authors: Dalloul Ahmed Hany , Miramirkhani Farshad , Kouhalvandi Lida
Published: November 2023

The development of remote health monitoring systems has focused on enhancing healthcare services’ efficiency and quality, particularly in chronic disease management and elderly care. These systems employ a range of sensors and wearable devices to track patients’ health status and offer real-time feedback to healthcare providers. This facilitates prompt interventions and reduces hospitalization rates. The aim of this study is to explore the latest developments in the realm of remote health monitoring systems. In this paper, we explore a wide range of domains, spanning antenna designs, small implantable antennas, on-body wearable solutions, and adaptable detection and imaging systems. Our research also delves into the methodological approaches used in monitoring systems, including the analysis of channel characteristics, advancements in wireless capsule endoscopy, and insightful investigations into sensing and imaging techniques. These advancements hold the potential to improve the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring, ultimately contributing to enhanced health outcomes for patients.
High Performance Rotating Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Coaxial Rolling Charge Pump Strategy
Authors: Hao Congcong , Qi Bowen , Wang Zekun , Cai Mingzhe , Cui Juan , Zheng Yongqiu
Published: November 2023

With the development of society and the advancement of technology, the emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) has changed people’s lifestyles and raised the demand for energy to a new level. However, there are some drawbacks in terms of energy supply for IoT sensors, such as limited battery capacity and limitations in replacement and maintenance. Therefore, it has become urgent to develop a sustainable green energy source (wind energy) using the surrounding environment. Meanwhile, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with advantages such as flexible structure, low manufacturing cost, and environmental friendliness provide enormous potential for constructing self-powered sensing systems. In this work, we present a novel coaxial rolling charge pump TENG (CR-TENG) based on wind energy to enhance the output performance and durability. The rolling friction charge pump TENG directly injects positive and negative charges into the main TENG, which is more wear-resistant compared to sliding friction, and greatly increases the charge density and output power. In addition, the charge pumping part and the main TENG adopt the coaxial design, reducing the complexity of the structural design. On comparing the output performance of the CR-TENG under the initial state, rectifier bridge supplemental charge strategy, and charge pump supplemental charge strategy, results shown that the output voltage performance of the CR-TENG can be improved by 5800% under the charge pump supplemental charge strategy. Moreover, the output performance of the CR-TENG remains stable after 72,000 cycles. The output power of the CR-TENG can reach 1.21 mW with a load resistance of 3 × 107 Ω. And the CR-TENG can charge a 0.1 μF capacitor to 5 V in just 1.6 s. This work provides new insights for the rotary durable high output charge pump compensating a triboelectric nanogenerator and demonstrates the important potential of harvesting environmental energy to supply intelligent IoT nodes.
New Insights into Improving the Photovoltaic Performance of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells by Removing Platinum from the Counter Electrode Using a Graphene-MoS2 Composite or Hybrid
Authors: Hosseinnezhad Mozhgan , Ghahari Mehdi , Mobarhan Ghazal , Fathi Mohsen , Palevicius Arvydas , Nutalapati Venkatramaiah , Janusas Giedrius , Nasiri Sohrab
Published: November 2023

Photovoltaic systems, such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), are one of the useful tools for generating renewable and green energy. To develop this technology, obstacles such as cost and the use of expensive compounds must be overcome. Here, we employed a new MoS2/graphene hybrid or composite instead of platinum in the DSSCs. Furthermore, the correctness of the preparation of the MoS2/graphene hybrid or composite was evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and the results showed that the desired compound was synthesized correctly. Inexpensive organic dyes were used to prepare the DSSCs, and their chemical structure was investigated by density functional theory (DFT) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Finally, the DSSCs were fabricated using MoS2/graphene composite or hybrid, and to compare the results, the DSSCs were also prepared using platinum. Under the same conditions, the DSSCs with MoS2/graphene composite illustrated better efficiency than MoS2/graphene hybrid or/and graphene.
Energy-Trapping Characteristics of Lateral Field Excited GdCOB Crystal Bulk Acoustic Wave Devices Based on Stepped Electrodes
Authors: Wu Bowei , Kang Pengfei , Ma Tingfeng , Yao Yuming , Gan Ning , Li Peng , Qian Zhenghua , Kuznetsova Iren , Nedospasov Ilya , Hu Wenhui
Published: November 2023

In this work, high-frequency forced vibrations of lateral field excitation (LFE) devices with stepped electrodes based on monoclinic crystals GdCOB are modeled, and the influence laws of the device parameters (the step number, size, and thickness of the stepped electrodes) on the energy-trapping effects of the device are revealed. The results show that the step number has a significant effect on the energy-trapping effect of the device: with the increase in the step number, the stronger energy-trapping effect of the device can be obtained; with the increase in the thickness difference of two layers of electrodes, the energy-trapping effect of the device becomes stronger; with the increase in the difference of the electrode radius, the energy-trapping effect of the device is enhanced gradually. The results of this work can provide an important theoretical basis for the design of stepped-electrode LFE resonators and sensors with high-quality factors based on monoclinic crystals.
Design, Optimization, and Application of a 3D-Printed Polymer Sample Introduction System for the ICP-MS Analysis of Nanoparticles and Cells
Authors: Kajner Gyula , Bélteki Ádám , Cseh Martin , Geretovszky Zsolt , Ajtai Tibor , Barna Lilla , Deli Mária A. , Pap Bernadett , Maróti Gergely , Galbács Gábor
Published: November 2023

Commonly used sample introduction systems for inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) are generally not well-suited for single particle ICP-MS (spICP-MS) applications due to their high sample requirements and low efficiency. In this study, the first completely 3D-printed, polymer SIS was developed to facilitate spICP-MS analysis. The system is based on a microconcentric pneumatic nebulizer and a single-pass spray chamber with an additional sheath gas flow to further facilitate the transport of larger droplets or particles. The geometry of the system was optimized using numerical simulations. Its aerosol characteristics and operational conditions were studied via optical particle counting and a course of spICP-MS measurements, involving nanodispersions and cell suspensions. In a comparison of the performance of the new and the standard (quartz microconcentric nebulizer plus a double-pass spray chamber) systems, it was found that the new sample introduction system has four times higher particle detection efficiency, significantly better signal-to-noise ratio, provides ca. 20% lower size detection limit, and allows an extension of the upper limit of transportable particle diameters to about 25 µm.
Brightening and Directionality Control of Dark Excitons through Quasi-Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Klimmer Sebastian , Soavi Giancarlo , Staude Isabelle , Barreda Ángela
Published: November 2023

Thanks to their long lifetime, spin-forbidden dark excitons in transition metal dichalcogenides are promising candidates for storage applications in opto-electronics and valleytronics. To date, their study has been hindered by inefficient generation mechanisms and the necessity for elaborate detection schemes. In this work, we propose a new hybrid platform that simultaneously addresses both challenges. We study an all-dielectric metasurface with two symmetrically protected quasi-bound states in the continuum to enhance both the excitation and emission of dark excitons in a tungsten diselenide monolayer under normal light incidence. Our simulations show a giant photoluminescence signal enhancement (∼520) along with directional emission, thus offering distinct advantages for opto-electronic and valleytronic devices.
Stepwise−Process−Controlled Ligand Management Strategy for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Authors: Dai Jinfei , Guo Wei , Xu Jie , Xu Ruoyao , Xi Jun , Dong Hua , Wu Zhaoxin
Published: November 2023

CsPbI3 perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have attracted much attention in the field of solar cells because of their excellent photovoltaic properties. Conventional modification of long−chain insulating ligands can ensure good dispersion and film−forming stability of QDs, but the limitations of their low defect passivation ability and poor charge transport ability will make them fail to achieve high efficiency in the corresponding solar cell devices. In this study, by introducing “Benzylphosphonic acid” short−chain ligands to the surface of CsPbI3 QDs, the ligands were re−administered on the surface during the preparation of the CsPbI3 QDs as well as during the film−forming process. The strong coordination ability of Benzenephosphonic acid can effectively passivate defects on the surface of CsPbI3 QDs and inhibit non−radiative recombination and phase transition. Meanwhile, this short−chain ligand can effectively promote the charge exchange between adjacent QDs and improve the electrical transport properties of the film. The efficiency of the Benzylphosphonic acid−modified CsPbI3 QDs solar cell reaches 13.91% compared to the unmodified device (PCE of 11.4%). The storage stability and operation stability of the device are also significantly improved. (The efficiency remains at 91% of the original for 800 h of atmospheric storage; the efficiency remains at 92% of the original for 200 h of continuous light exposure.) The present strategy realizes the simultaneous improvement of photovoltaic properties and stability of CsPbI3 QD solar cells and also provides a reference for surface ligand engineering to realize highly efficient and stable perovskite quantum dot solar cells.
Association between Skin Carotenoid Score Measured with Veggie Meter® and Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet among Adolescents from Southern Italy
Authors: Caparello Giovanna , Groccia Giovanni Dongionny , Ceraudo Fabrizio , Cesario Mirko , Bonofiglio Renzo , Augimeri Giuseppina , Bonofiglio Daniela
Published: November 2023

The Veggie Meter® (Longevity Link Corporation, Salt Lake City, UT, USA), is a new portable device for the non-invasive and rapid detection of skin carotenoid content, which represents an acceptable biomarker for the evaluation of fruit and vegetable (FV) intake. FVs are important components of a healthy diet, including the Mediterranean Diet (MD), which is a plant-based dietary pattern. Here, we evaluated the adherence to the MD via the administration of two online food questionnaires, and we measured the skin carotenoid content using the Veggie Meter® in a cohort of 498 healthy adolescents (233 males and 265 females) from Southern Italy. Using KIDMED and the MD Pyramid tests to assess the adherence to the MD, we found an average adherence (5.43 ± 2.57 and 7.20 ± 1.93, respectively) to the MD in our sample population. Moreover, we observed that the skin carotenoid score was 364.75 ± 98.29, which was within the normal range and inversely related to the BMI (r = −0.1461, p = 0.0011). Similar results were observed when the population was categorized by sex. Interestingly, we demonstrated, for the first time, a positive correlation between the carotenoid score and the adherence to the MD assessed using both the KIDMED and MD Pyramid tests in the total population (r = −0.2926, p < 0.0001 and r = −0.1882, p < 0.0001, respectively). The same direct correlation was found in adolescents according to their sex. Our findings highlight the potential of the Veggie Meter® as a feasible and promising tool for evaluating adherence to the MD and, ultimately, to promote healthy eating habits among adolescents.
Effect of Amino Acid Supplementation on Iron Regulation after Endurance Exercise
Authors: Lin Chao-An , Hayashi Nanako , Badenhorst Claire E. , Goto Kazushige
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of pre-exercise amino acid (AA) supplementation on post-exercise iron regulation. Ten healthy males participated under two different sets of conditions in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design with a washout period of at least 21 days. Participants received either an AA supplement or placebo (PLA) for five consecutive days (4 g/dose, 3 doses/day). On the sixth day, participants ran on a treadmill for 60 min at 70% of maximal oxygen consumption (V˙O2max). Venous blood samples were collected before (baseline), immediately after, and 1 and 3 h after exercise. The serum hepcidin levels increased significantly 3 h post-exercise in both trials when compared to the baseline (p < 0.001), but the levels were not different between trials. The plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) level significantly increased immediately after exercise compared to the baseline (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher in the AA trial than in the PLA trial (p = 0.014). Moreover, the exercise-induced increase in serum glycerol level was significantly higher in the AA trial (21.20 ± 3.98 mg/L) than in the PLA trial (17.28 ± 4.47 mg/L, p = 0.017). No significant differences were observed between the AA and PLA trials for serum iron, ferritin, and total ketone body levels (p > 0.05). In conclusion, five days of AA supplementation augmented exercise-induced increases in IL-6 and glycerol in healthy males. However, it did not affect post-exercise iron status or regulation.
Athletes Can Benefit from Increased Intake of EPA and DHA—Evaluating the Evidence
Authors: Tomczyk Maja , Heileson Jeffery L. , Babiarz Mirosław , Calder Philip C.
Published: November 2023

Fatty fish, which include mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines, and certain species of algae (e.g., Schizochytrium sp., Crytthecodiniumcohnii and Phaeodactylumtricornutum) are the only naturally rich sources of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are the most biologically active members of the n-3 PUFA family. Limited dietary sources and fluctuating content of EPA and DHA in fish raise concerns about the status of EPA and DHA among athletes, as confirmed in a number of studies. The beneficial effects of EPA and DHA include controlling inflammation, supporting nervous system function, maintaining muscle mass after injury and improving training adaptation. Due to their inadequate intake and beneficial health-promoting effects, athletes might wish to consider using supplements that provide EPA and DHA. Here, we provide an overview of the effects of EPA and DHA that are relevant to athletes and discuss the pros and cons of supplements as a source of EPA and DHA for athletes.
Association of the Protective Dietary Pattern for Blood Pressure with Elevated Blood Pressure and Hypertension among Chinese Children and Adolescents Aged 6–17 Years Old: Data from China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (2015–2017)
Authors: Li Yuge , Yang Yuxiang , Ju Lahong , Piao Wei , Wei Xiaoqi , Zhao Liyun , Yu Dongmei
Published: November 2023

Studies focused on the association between dietary patterns and elevated blood pressure (BP) and hypertension (HTN) among children and adolescents remain insufficient. This study aimed to explore a dietary pattern that could be helpful for the prevention of abnormal BP and to investigate the association between this dietary pattern and elevated BP and HTN among Chinese children and adolescents. A total of 52,080 Chinese children and adolescents aged 6~17 years old from the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (CNHS) 2015–2017 were included in the current study. The reduced rank regression (RRR) method was applied to derive a dietary pattern that is associated with BP. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between dietary pattern (DP) and elevated BP and HTN. The Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score was also calculated for each participant as a comparative method to validate the dietary pattern derived with the RRR method. A protective dietary pattern (PDP) for BP among Chinese children and adolescents was derived, which was characterized by high intakes of dairy products, mushrooms/edible fungi, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, fresh eggs, aquatic products, mixed legumes, soybeans and related products, offal, dried fruits, and coarse cereals, with low intakes of refined grains. After multiple adjustments, there were significant inverse associations between PDP scores and the odds of elevated BP and HTN (elevated BP: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.849, 95%CI = 0.755–0.931, P-trend < 0.05; HTN: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.795, 95%CI = 0.694–0.911, P-trend < 0.05). The DASH diet was also observed to have protective effects on elevated BP in model I (Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.899, 95%CI = 0.828–0.975, P-trend < 0.05), but was not observed to have protective effects on HTN (HTN: Q5 vs. Q1, OR = 0.958, 95%CI = 0.876–1.048, P-trend > 0.05). The current study suggested that greater adherence to the PDP for BP among Chinese children and adolescents might be associated with lower odds of elevated BP and HTN.
Maternal Consumption of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners during Pregnancy Is Associated with Alterations in the Colostrum Microbiota
Authors: Tapia-González Alejandro , Vélez-Ixta Juan Manuel , Bueno-Hernández Nallely , Piña-Escobedo Alberto , Briones-Garduño Jesús Carlos , de la Rosa-Ruiz Leticia , Aguayo-Guerrero José , Mendoza-Martínez Viridiana M. , Snowball-del-Pilar Lenin , Escobedo Galileo , Meléndez-Mier Guillermo , Méndez-García Lucía A. , García-Mena Jaime , Esquivel-Velázquez Marcela
Published: November 2023

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) provide a sweet taste to foods and beverages without significantly adding calories. Still, their consumption has been linked to modifications in adult’s and children’s gut microbiota and the disruption of blood glucose control. Human milk microbiota are paramount in establishing infants’ gut microbiota, but very little is known about whether the consumption of sweeteners can alter it. To address this question, we sequenced DNA extracted colostrum samples from a group of mothers, who had different levels of NNS consumption, using the Ion Torrent Platform. Our results show that the “core” of colostrum microbiota, composed of the genera Bifidobacterium, Blautia, Cutibacteium, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus, remains practically unchanged with the consumption of NNS during pregnancy, but specific genera display significant alterations, such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. A significant increase in the unclassified archaea Methanobrevibacter spp. was observed as the consumption frequency of NNS increased. The increase in the abundance of this archaea has been previously linked to obesity in Mexican children. NNS consumption during pregnancy could be related to changes in colostrum microbiota and may affect infants’ gut microbiota seeding and their future health.
The Family Environment as a Source for Creating the Dietary Attitudes of Primary School Students—A Focus Group Interview: The Junior-Edu-Żywienie (JEŻ) Project
Authors: Czarniecka-Skubina Ewa , Gutkowska Krystyna , Hamulka Jadwiga
Published: November 2023

The family environment plays a crucial role in creating the health behaviours of children and youth. This study aimed to explore the attitudes of parents with children aged 7–12 who represent an influential environment for creating the eating behaviours of children. A qualitative study was conducted using focus-group interviews (FGI) involving 101 parents from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Three categories of parents were identified based on their level of involvement and awareness of nutrition: ‘aware’, ‘determined’, and ‘relaxed’. Among parents of 10–12-year-old students, an additional category, ‘distanced’ parents, was identified. The study revealed that parents require support in terms of providing compelling arguments and practical recommendations related to meals and reducing or eliminating their children’s consumption of sweets, snacks, fast food, and, in the case of older students, energy drinks. Parents reported that their children had a moderate understanding of the principles of proper nutrition. The majority of respondents viewed this knowledge as primarily theoretical and expressed a need for practical guidance and activities, which they believe should be offered by schools. To achieve positive outcomes in educational activities related to food and nutrition, it is essential to involve children, parents, guardians, teachers, and other school staff in these efforts.
Trends in Oxidative Balance Score and Prevalence of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in the United States: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001 to 2018
Authors: Tan Zongbiao , Wu Yanrui , Meng Yang , Liu Chuan , Deng Beiying , Zhen Junhai , Dong Weiguo
Published: November 2023

Background: Most studies have primarily focused on assessing the association between diet or exercise patterns and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This study adopted a more comprehensive approach by introducing the oxidative balance score (OBS) to evaluate the combined effects of diet and lifestyle on the body’s antioxidant ability. Our main objective was to investigate the association between OBS and the burden of MASLD in the United States. Methods: Participants with complete information from 2001 to 2018 were included. In the absence of other definite liver injury factors, the United States fatty liver index (us-FLI) ≥ 30 was used as the diagnostic criterion for MASLD. We first calculated the weighted prevalence for each cycle and stratified it according to demographic and metabolic-related disease characteristics. Subsequently, weighted multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between OBS and MASLD. In addition, we explored the body’s inflammatory state and the level of insulin resistance (IR) in mediating OBS and MASLD. Results: From 2001 to 2018, the prevalence of MASLD in the U.S. population as a whole increased from 29.76% to 36.04%, and the rate was higher in people with metabolic-related diseases. Notably, OBS exhibited a negative correlation with MASLD. Participants in the highest tertile of OBS had a significantly lower prevalence of MASLD compared to those in the lowest tertile [OR: 0.72, 95%CI: (0.57, 0.92), p < 0.001]. Moreover, a high OBS is associated with a lower inflammatory state and level of IR. The body’s inflammatory state and IR level mediated the association between OBS and MASLD by 5.2% and 39.7%, respectively (both p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, we observed an increasing prevalence of MASLD over the years. A higher OBS was associated with a lower risk of MASLD, especially when OBS ≥ 25. The body’s inflammatory state and IR level mediate the association between OBS and MASLD, but the mechanism needs to be further investigated.
Phytochemicals in Chronic Disease Prevention
Authors: Sun Jing , Luo Shuwei , Deng Jianjun , Yang Haixia
Published: November 2023

Chronic diseases, also known as noncommunicable diseases (NCD), are characterized by long durations and a slow progression of the associated medical conditions [...]
Dietary Micronutrient Intake and Its Relationship with the Malnutrition–Inflammation–Frailty Complex in Patients Undergoing Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Cheng Phyllis Mei-Shan , Chow Kai-Ming , Szeto Cheuk-Chun , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: November 2023

Background: The relationship between dietary patterns and the malnutrition–inflammation–frailty complex in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) is currently unknown. Our objective was to measure dietary nutrient intake and evaluate its association with malnutrition, inflammation, and frailty. Methods: We prospectively recruited adult PD patients. We assessed their dietary nutrient intake using a food frequency questionnaire. Frailty, malnutrition, and inflammation were evaluated by validated Frailty Score (FQ), Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), and Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS). Results: A total of 209 patients were recruited for the study. Among them, 89 patients (42.6%) had an insufficient protein intake, and 104 patients (49.8%) had an insufficient energy intake. Additionally, 127 subjects were identified as frail, characterized by being older (61.9 ± 9.5 vs. 55.6 ± 12.8, p < 0.001), malnourished (SGA: 21.0 ± 2.7 vs. 22.7 ± 3.1, p < 0.001), and having a high inflammation burden (MIS: 10.55 ± 3.72 vs. 7.18 ± 3.61, p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between dietary zinc intake and body mass index (r = 0.31, p < 0.001), SGA (r = 0.22, p = 0.01), and MIS (r = −0.22, p = 0.01). In the multivariate model, a higher dietary zinc intake predicted a higher SGA (beta 0.03, p = 0.003) and lower FQ (beta −0.38, p < 0.001) and MIS (beta −0.14, p < 0.001), indicating a better nutrition, less frail and inflamed state. A higher dietary zinc intake was also associated with a lower odds of being frail (adjusted odds ratio 0.96, p = 0.009). Conclusion: Dietary inadequacy and micronutrient deficiency are common among the PD population. Dietary zinc intake is independently associated with an improved nutrition, physical condition, and reduced inflammatory state.
Gut Microbiota and Obesity: The Chicken or the Egg?
Authors: Tassoni Daniele S. , Macedo Rodrigo C. O. , Delpino Felipe M. , Santos Heitor O.
Published: November 2023

Although the link between gut microbiota and obesity is increasingly reported, the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical outcomes are still under debate. This overview of human and animal data addresses several pathophysiologic mechanisms, dietary habits, exercise and probiotic and symbiotic supplementation in the fields of gut microbiota and obesity. Overall, obesity impairs gut microbiota composition due to factors that may be linked to the onset of the disease, such as excessive consumption of high-energy foods, sugars and fats, as well as a low fiber intake and physical inactivity. Conversely, low-energy diets, physical exercise, and probiotic and prebiotic supplementations can enhance gut microbiota in patients with obesity, in addition to improving cardiometabolic markers. As for perspectives, further research is warranted to ascertain proper dietary manipulation, physical exercise protocols and dosing regimens of probiotics. Regarding the latter, the effects on indicators of obesity are clinically modest, and hence skepticism must be exercised.
Phytochemicals as Immunomodulatory Molecules in Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Paudel Sandeep , Mishra Neha , Agarwal Rajesh
Published: November 2023

Phytochemicals are natural plant-derived products that provide significant nutrition, essential biomolecules, and flavor as part of our diet. They have long been known to confer protection against several diseases via their anti-inflammatory, immune-regulatory, anti-microbial, and several other properties. Deciphering the role of phytochemicals in the prevention, inhibition, and treatment of cancer—unrestrained cell proliferation due to the loss of tight regulation on cell growth and replication—has been the focus of recent research. Particularly, the immunomodulatory role of phytochemicals, which is pivotal in unchecked cell proliferation and metastasis, has recently been studied extensively. The immune system is a critical component of the tumor microenvironment, and it plays essential roles in both preventing and promoting oncogenesis. Immunomodulation includes stimulation, amplification, or inactivation of some stage(s) of the immune response. Phytochemicals and their products have demonstrated immune regulation, such as macrophage migration, nitric oxide synthase inhibition, lymphocyte, T-cell, and cytokine stimulation, natural killer cell augmentation, and NFκB, TNF, and apoptosis regulation. There is a dearth of extensive accounts of the immunomodulatory effects of phytochemicals in cancer; thus, we have compiled these effects with mechanistic aspects of dietary phytochemicals in cancer, highlighting promising candidates and ongoing clinical trials on immunotherapeutic strategies to mitigate oncogenesis.
MD Simulations to Calculate NMR Relaxation Parameters of Vanadium(IV) Complexes: A Promising Diagnostic Tool for Cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Mancini , Tavares Camila Assis , Santos Taináh Martins Resende , Rasouli Hassan , Ramalho Teodorico Castro
Published: November 2023

Early phase diagnosis of human diseases has still been a challenge in the medicinal field, and one of the efficient non-invasive techniques that is vastly used for this purpose is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is able to detect a wide range of diseases and conditions, including nervous system disorders and cancer, and uses the principles of NMR relaxation to generate detailed internal images of the body. For such investigation, different metal complexes have been studied as potential MRI contrast agents. With this in mind, this work aims to investigate two systems containing the vanadium complexes [VO(metf)2]·H2O (VC1) and [VO(bpy)2Cl]+ (VC2), being metformin and bipyridine ligands of the respective complexes, with the biological targets AMPK and ULK1. These biomolecules are involved in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and triple-negative breast cancer, respectively, and may act as promising spectroscopic probes for detection of these diseases. To initially evaluate the behavior of the studied ligands within the aforementioned protein active sites and aqueous environment, four classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations including VC1 + H2O (1), VC2 + H2O (2), VC1 + AMPK + H2O (3), and VC2 + ULK1 + H2O (4) were performed. From this, it was obtained that for both systems containing VCs and water only, the theoretical calculations implied a higher efficiency when compared with DOTAREM, a famous commercially available contrast agent for MRI. This result is maintained when evaluating the system containing VC1 + AMPK + H2O. Nevertheless, for the system VC2 + ULK1 + H2O, there was observed a decrease in the vanadium complex efficiency due to the presence of a relevant steric hindrance. Despite that, due to the nature of the interaction between VC2 and ULK1, and the nature of its ligands, the study gives an insight that some modifications on VC2 structure might improve its efficiency as an MRI probe.
Hyaluronic Acid Nanogels: A Promising Platform for Therapeutic and Theranostic Applications
Authors: Myint Su Sundee , Laomeephol Chavee , Thamnium Sirikool , Chamni Supakarn , Luckanagul Jittima Amie
Published: November 2023

Hyaluronic acid (HA) nanogels are a versatile class of nanomaterials with specific properties, such as biocompatibility, hygroscopicity, and biodegradability. HA nanogels exhibit excellent colloidal stability and high encapsulation capacity, making them promising tools for a wide range of biomedical applications. HA nanogels can be fabricated using various methods, including polyelectrolyte complexation, self-assembly, and chemical crosslinking. The fabrication parameters can be tailored to control the physicochemical properties of HA nanogels, such as size, shape, surface charge, and porosity, enabling the rational design of HA nanogels for specific applications. Stimulus-responsive nanogels are a type of HA nanogels that can respond to external stimuli, such as pH, temperature, enzyme, and redox potential. This property allows the controlled release of encapsulated therapeutic agents in response to specific physiological conditions. HA nanogels can be engineered to encapsulate a variety of therapeutic agents, such as conventional drugs, genes, and proteins. They can then be delivered to target tissues with high efficiency. HA nanogels are still under development, but they have the potential to become powerful tools for a wide range of theranostic or solely therapeutic applications, including anticancer therapy, gene therapy, drug delivery, and bioimaging.