bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Amburana cearensis (Allemão) ACSm
Authors: Silveira Zildene de Sousa , Macêdo Nair Silva , Bezerra Suieny Rodrigues , Siyadatpanah Abolghasem , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , Seifi Zahra , Kim Bonglee , da Cunha Francisco Assis Bezerra , Balbino Valdir de Queiroz
Published: January 2022

Amburana cearensis (Allemão) ACSm. belongs to the Fabaceae family and occurs in the Brazilian semiarid, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Peru. Numerous studies that portray its ethnobotany, use in popular medicine, chemical composition, and biological activities exist in the literature. This review aimed to provide an overview of the chemical composition, ethnopharmacology, and biological activities associated with A. cearensis and its isolated constituents. Information was collected from internet searches in the Scopus, Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases were performed covering publications from 1997–2020. An ethnopharmacological literature analysis revealed that A. cearensis is used to treat a wide range of respiratory disorders in addition to intestinal, circulatory, and inflammatory problems. Coumarins, flavonoids, phenolic glycosides, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoid derivatives, and triterpenoids, among others, have been reported as active compounds, with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) being the main analytical technique used. The A. cearensis extracts and compounds presented several biological activities, including antimicrobial, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and myorelaxant activities, among others. This review provides a useful bibliography for future investigations and A. cearensis applications; however, future studies should focus on its toxic effects and the mechanisms of action of its extracts and isolated constituents to guide clinical applications.
Screening of Yeast in Various Vineyard Soil and Study on Its Flavor Compounds from Brewing Grape Wine
Authors: Wang Xuzeng , Wang Zhaogai , Feng Tao
Published: January 2022

In order to screen out Saccharomyces cerevisiae suitable for table grape fermentation, and compare it with commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae in terms of fermentation performance and aroma producing substances, differences of fermentation flavor caused by different strains were discussed. In this experiment, yeast was isolated and purified from vineyard soil, 26s rDNA identification and fermentation substrate tolerance analysis were carried out, and the causes of flavor differences of wine were analyzed from three aspects: GC-MS, PCA and sensory evaluation. The results showed that strain S1 had the highest floral aroma fraction, corresponding to its high production of ethyl octanoate and other substances, and it had the characteristics of high sugar tolerance. The fruit sensory score of S3 wine was the highest among the six wines. Through exploration and analysis, it was found that compared with commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the screened strains had more advantages in fermenting table grapes. The flavor of each wine was directly related to the growth characteristics and tolerance of its strains.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Scenedesmus obliquus Microalgae in the Context of Integral Biorefinery Concept
Authors: Zaharieva Maya Margaritova , Zheleva-Dimitrova Dimitrina , Rusinova-Videva Snezhana , Ilieva Yana , Brachkova Anna , Balabanova Vessela , Gevrenova Reneta , Kim Tanya Chan , Kaleva Mila , Georgieva Almira , Mileva Milka , Yoncheva Krassimira , Benbassat Niko , Najdenski Hristo , Kroumov Alexander Dimitrov
Published: January 2022

Small-scale photobioreactors (PBRs) in the inoculum stage were designed with internal (red or green) and external white LED light as an initial step of a larger-scale installation aimed at fulfilling the integral biorefinery concept for maximum utilization of microalgal biomass in a multifunctional laboratory. The specific growth rate of Scenedesmus obliquus (Turpin) Kützing biomass for given cultural conditions was analyzed by using MAPLE software. For the determination of total polyphenols, flavonoids, chlorophyll “a” and “b”, carotenoids and lipids, UHPLC-HRMS, ISO-20776/1, ISO-10993-5 and CUPRAC tests were carried out. Under red light growing, a higher content of polyphenols was found, while the green light favoured the flavonoid accumulation in the biomass. Chlorophylls, carotenoids and lipids were in the same order of magnitude in both samples. The dichloromethane extracts obtained from the biomass of each PBR synergistically potentiated at low concentrations (0.01–0.05 mg/mL) the antibacterial activity of penicillin, fluoroquinolones or oregano essential oil against the selected food-borne pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium) without showing any in vitro cytotoxicity. Both extracts exhibited good cupric ion-reducing antioxidant capacity at concentrations above 0.042–0.08 mg/mL. The UHPLC-HRMS analysis revealed that both extracts contained long chain fatty acids and carotenoids thus explaining their antibacterial and antioxidant potential. The applied engineering approach showed a great potential to modify microalgae metabolism for the synthesis of target compounds by S. obliquus with capacity for the development of health-promoting nutraceuticals for poultry farming.
A Concise Total Synthesis of the Fungal Isoquinoline Alkaloid TMC-120B
Authors: Haidar Ahmad K. , Kjeldsen Niels D. , Troelsen Nikolaj S. , Previtali Viola , Lundquist Kasper P. , Larsen Thomas O. , Clausen Mads H.
Published: January 2022

Recent reports of antiepileptic activity of the fungal alkaloid TMC-120B have renewed the interest in this natural product. Previous total syntheses of TMC-120B comprise many steps and have low overall yields (11–17 steps, 1.5–2.9% yield). Thus, to access this compound more efficiently, we herein present a concise and significantly improved total synthesis of the natural product. Our short synthesis relies on two key cyclization steps to assemble the central scaffold: isoquinoline formation via an ethynyl-imino cyclization and an intramolecular Friedel-Crafts reaction to form the furanone.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Glass Ionomer Cement in Incorporation with Biogenic Zingiber officinale Capped Silver-Nanobiotic, Chlorhexidine Diacetate and Lyophilized Miswak
Authors: Ashour Amal Adnan , Basha Sakeenabi , Felemban Nayef H. , Enan Enas T. , Alyamani Amal Ahmed , Gad El-Rab Sanaa M. F.
Published: January 2022

In the present study, Zingiber officinale is used for the synthesis of Zingiber officinale capped silver nanoparticles (ZOE-AgNPs) and compares the antimicrobial efficacy and compressive strength of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) combined with ZOE-AgNPs, lyophilized miswak, and chlorhexidine diacetate (CHX) against oral microbes. Five groups of the disc-shaped GIC specimens were prepared. Group A: lyophilized miswak and GIC combination, Group B: ZOE-AgNPs and GIC combinations, Group C: CHX and GIC combination, Group D: ZOE-AgNPs + CHX + GIC; Group E: Conventional GIC. Results confirmed the successful formation of ZOE-AgNPs that was monitored by UV-Vis sharp absorption spectra at 415 nm. The X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) results revealed the formation of ZOE-AgNPs with a mean size 10.5–14.12 nm. The peaks of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were appearing the involvement of ZOE components onto the surface of ZOE-AgNPs which played as bioreducing, and stabilizing agents. At a 24-h, one-week and three-week intervals, Group D showed the significantly highest mean inhibitory zones compared to Group A, Group B, and Group C. At microbe-level comparison, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus were inhibited significantly by all the specimens tested except group E when compared to Candida albicans. Group D specimens showed slightly higher (45.8 ± 5.4) mean compressive strength in comparison with other groups. The combination of GIC with ZOE-AgNPs and chlorhexidine together enhanced its antimicrobial efficacy and compressive strength compared to GIC with ZOE-AgNPs or lyophilized miswak or chlorhexidine combination alone. The present study revealed that The combination of GIC with active components of ZOE-AgNPs and chlorhexidine paves the way to lead its effective nano-dental materials applications.
A Ferrofluid with Surface Modified Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia and High ROS Production
Authors: Cervantes Oscar , Lopez Zaira del Rocio , Casillas Norberto , Knauth Peter , Checa Nayeli , Cholico Francisco Apolinar , Hernandez-Gutiérrez Rodolfo , Quintero Luis Hector , Paz Jose Avila , Cano Mario Eduardo
Published: January 2022

A ferrofluid with 1,2-Benzenediol-coated iron oxide nanoparticles was synthesized and physicochemically analyzed. This colloidal system was prepared following the typical co-precipitation method, and superparamagnetic nanoparticles of 13.5 nm average diameter, 34 emu/g of magnetic saturation, and 285 K of blocking temperature were obtained. Additionally, the zeta potential showed a suitable colloidal stability for cancer therapy assays and the magneto-calorimetric trails determined a high power absorption density. In addition, the oxidative capability of the ferrofluid was corroborated by performing the Fenton reaction with methylene blue (MB) dissolved in water, where the ferrofluid was suitable for producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and surprisingly a strong degradation of MB was also observed when it was combined with H2O2. The intracellular ROS production was qualitatively corroborated using the HT-29 human cell line, by detecting the fluorescent rise induced in 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. In other experiments, cell metabolic activity was measured, and no toxicity was observed, even with concentrations of up to 4 mg/mL of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). When the cells were treated with magnetic hyperthermia, 80% of cells were dead at 43 °C using 3 mg/mL of MNPs and applying a magnetic field of 530 kHz with 20 kA/m amplitude.
Seeking Solvation: Exploring the Role of Protein Hydration in Silk Gelation
Authors: Laity Peter R. , Holland Chris
Published: January 2022

The mechanism by which arthropods (e.g., spiders and many insects) can produce silk fibres from an aqueous protein (fibroin) solution has remained elusive, despite much scientific investigation. In this work, we used several techniques to explore the role of a hydration shell bound to the fibroin in native silk feedstock (NSF) from Bombyx mori silkworms. Small angle X-ray and dynamic light scattering (SAXS and DLS) revealed a coil size (radius of gyration or hydrodynamic radius) around 12 nm, providing considerable scope for hydration. Aggregation in dilute aqueous solution was observed above 65 °C, matching the gelation temperature of more concentrated solutions and suggesting that the strength of interaction with the solvent (i.e., water) was the dominant factor. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy indicated decreasing hydration as the temperature was raised, with similar changes in hydration following gelation by freezing or heating. It was found that the solubility of fibroin in water or aqueous salt solutions could be described well by a relatively simple thermodynamic model for the stability of the protein hydration shell, which suggests that the affected water is enthalpically favoured but entropically penalised, due to its reduced (vibrational or translational) dynamics. Moreover, while the majority of this investigation used fibroin from B. mori, comparisons with published work on silk proteins from other silkworms and spiders, globular proteins and peptide model systems suggest that our findings may be of much wider significance.
Water-in-Oil-in-Water Double Emulsions as Protective Carriers for Sambucus nigra L. Coloring Systems
Authors: Teixeira Liandra G. , Rezende Stephany , Fernandes Ângela , Fernandes Isabel P. , Barros Lillian , Barreira João C. M. , Leimann Fernanda V. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Barreiro Maria-Filomena
Published: January 2022

The use of natural colorants is needed to overcome consumer concerns regarding synthetic food colorants′ safety. However, natural pigments have, in general, poor stability against environmental stresses such as temperature, ionic strength, moisture, light, and pH, among others. In this work, water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) emulsions were used as protective carriers to improve color stability of a hydrophilic Sambucus nigra L. extract against pH changes. The chemical system comprised water and corn oil as the aqueous and oil phases, respectively, and polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR), Tween 80, and gum Arabic as stabilizers. The primary emulsion was prepared using a W1/O ratio of 40/60 (v/v). For the secondary emulsion, W1/O/W2, different (W1/O)/W2 ratios were tested with the 50/50 (v/v) formulation presenting the best stability, being selected as the coloring system to test in food matrices of different pH: natural yogurt (pH 4.65), rice drink (pH 6.01), cow milk (pH 6.47), and soy drink (pH 7.92). Compared to the direct use of the extract, the double emulsion solution gave rise to higher color stability with pH change and storage time, as corroborated by visual and statistical analysis.
Tailoring Interfacial Exchange Anisotropy in Hard–Soft Core-Shell Ferrite Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia Applications
Authors: Narayanaswamy Venkatesha , Al-Omari Imaddin A. , Kamzin Aleksandr S. , Issa Bashar , Obaidat Ihab M.
Published: January 2022

Magnetically hard–soft core-shell ferrite nanoparticles are synthesized using an organometallic decomposition method through seed-mediated growth. Two sets of core-shell nanoparticles (S1 and S2) with different shell (Fe3O4) thicknesses and similar core (CoFe2O4) sizes are obtained by varying the initial quantities of seed nanoparticles of size 6.0 ± 1.0 nm. The nanoparticles synthesized have average sizes of 9.5 ± 1.1 (S1) and 12.2 ± 1.7 (S2) nm with corresponding shell thicknesses of 3.5 and 6.1 nm. Magnetic properties are investigated under field-cooled and zero-field-cooled conditions at several temperatures and field cooling values. Magnetic heating efficiency for magnetic hyperthermia applications is investigated by measuring the specific absorption rate (SAR) in alternating magnetic fields at several field strengths and frequencies. The exchange bias is found to have a nonmonotonic and oscillatory relationship with temperature at all fields. SAR values of both core-shell samples are found to be considerably larger than that of the single-phase bare core particles. The effective anisotropy and SAR values are found to be larger in S2 than those in S1. However, the saturation magnetization displays the opposite behavior. These results are attributed to the occurrence of spin-glass regions at the core-shell interface of different amounts in the two samples. The novel outcome is that the interfacial exchange anisotropy of core-shell nanoparticles can be tailored to produce large effective magnetic anisotropy and thus large SAR values.
Highly Specific Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Using Graphene Oxide–Gold Nanoparticles Nanocomposite for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Detection
Authors: Kim Jong-Won , Park Kyoung-Woo , Kim Myeongkun , Lee Kyung Kwan , Lee Chang-Soo
Published: January 2022

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a molecular diagnosis technology with the advantages of rapid results, isothermal reaction conditions, and high sensitivity. However, this diagnostic system often produces false positive results due to a high rate of non-specific reactions caused by formation of hairpin structures, self-dimers, and mismatched hybridization. The non-specific signals can be due to primers used in the methods because the utilization of multiple LAMP primers increases the possibility of self-annealing of primers or mismatches between primers and templates. In this study, we report a nanomaterial-assisted LAMP method that uses a graphene oxide–gold nanoparticles (AuNPs@GO) nanocomposite to enable the detection of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) with high sensitivity and specificity. Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious and deadly disease in cloven-hoofed animals; hence, a rapid, sensitive, and specific detection method is necessary. The proposed approach exhibited high sensitivity and successful reduction of non-specific signals compared to the traditionally established LAMP assays. Additionally, a mechanism study revealed that these results arose from the adsorption of single-stranded DNA on AuNPs@GO nanocomposite. Thus, AuNPs@GO nanocomposite is demonstrated to be a promising additive in the LAMP system to achieve highly sensitive and specific detection of diverse diseases, including FMD.
Mechanical and Conductive Properties of Cu Matrix Composites Reinforced by Oriented Carbon Nanotubes with Different Coatings
Authors: Zheng Zhong , Yang Anxin , Tao Jiafeng , Li Jing , Zhang Wenqian , Li Xiuhong , Xue Huan
Published: January 2022

Because of the dilemma that the current industrial Cu enhancement methods lead to a significant decline in conductivity and ductility, Cu matrix composites reinforced by oriented multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared through sintering, hot extrusion, and cold drawing. Before sintering, Ni, Cu, and Ni&Cu coatings were electroless plated on MWCNTs as the intermediate transition layer, and then they were mixed with Cu powder through a nitrogen bubbling assisted ultrasonic process. By analyzing the composition, microstructure, and formation mechanism of the interface between MWCNTs and the matrix, the influence and mechanism of the interface on the mechanical properties, conductivity, and ductility of the composites were explored. The results indicated that MWCNTs maintained a highly dispersed and highly consistent orientation in the Cu matrix. The coating on Ni@CNT was the densest, continuous, and complete. The Ni@CNTs/Cu composite had the greatest effect, while the Cu composite reinforced by MWCNT without coating had the smallest reduction in elongation and conductivity. The comprehensive performance of the Cu@CNTs/Cu composite was the most balanced, with an ultimate tensile strength that reached 373 MPa, while the ductility and conductivity were not excessively reduced. The axial electrical and thermal conductivity were 79.9 IACS % (International Annealed Copper Standard) and 376 W/mK, respectively.
Antiviral Activities of High Energy E-Beam Induced Copper Nanoparticles against H1N1 Influenza Virus
Authors: Ha Taesung , Pham Thi Tuyet Mai , Kim Mikyung , Kim Yeon-Hee , Park Ji-Hyun , Seo Ji Hae , Kim Kyung-Min , Ha Eunyoung
Published: January 2022

The pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 in the year of 2020 that drastically changed everyone’s life has raised the urgent and intense need for the development of more efficacious antiviral material. This study was designed to develop copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) as an antiviral agent and to validate the antiviral activities of developed copper NP. The Cu NPs were synthesized using a high energy electron beam, and the characteristic morphologies and antiviral activities of Cu NPs were evaluated. We found that Cu NPs are of spherical shape and uniformly distributed, with a diameter of around 100 nm, as opposed to the irregular shape of commercially available copper microparticles (Cu MPs). An X-ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of Cu and no copper oxide II and I in the Cu NPs. A virus inactivation assay revealed no visible viral DNA after 10- and 30-min treatment of H1N1 virus with the Cu NPs. The infectivity of the Cu NPs-treated H1N1 virus significantly decreased compared with that of the Cu MPs-treated H1N1 virus. The viability of A549 bronchial and Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells infected with Cu NPs-treated H1N1 was significantly higher than those infected with Cu MPs-treated H1N1 virus. We also found cells infected with Cu NPs-treated H1N1 virus exhibited a markedly decreased presence of virus nucleoprotein (NuP), an influenza virus-specific structural protein, compared with cells infected with Cu MPs-treated H1N1 virus. Taken together, our study shows that Cu NPs are a more effective and efficacious antiviral agent compared with Cu MPs and offer promising opportunities for the prevention of devastatingly infectious diseases.
Nano-Engineering Solutions for Dental Implant Applications
Authors: Gulati Karan
Published: January 2022

This Special Issue of Nanomaterials explores the recent advances and trends with respect to nano-engineered strategies towards dental implant applications [...]
Biomedical Applications of Metal−Organic Frameworks for Disease Diagnosis and Drug Delivery: A Review
Authors: Al Sharabati Miral , Sabouni Rana , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: January 2022

Metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) are a novel class of porous hybrid organic−inorganic materials that have attracted increasing attention over the past decade. MOFs can be used in chemical engineering, materials science, and chemistry applications. Recently, these structures have been thoroughly studied as promising platforms for biomedical applications. Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, they are regarded as promising candidates for disease diagnosis and drug delivery. Their well-defined structure, high porosity, tunable frameworks, wide range of pore shapes, ultrahigh surface area, relatively low toxicity, and easy chemical functionalization have made them the focus of extensive research. This review highlights the up-to-date progress of MOFs as potential platforms for disease diagnosis and drug delivery for a wide range of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, neurological disorders, and ocular diseases. A brief description of the synthesis methods of MOFs is first presented. Various examples of MOF-based sensors and DDSs are introduced for the different diseases. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are discussed to provide context for the future development of MOFs as efficient platforms for disease diagnosis and drug delivery systems.
Association between Levocarnitine Treatment and the Change in Knee Extensor Strength in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Post-Hoc Analysis of the Osaka Dialysis Complication Study (ODCS)
Authors: Matsufuji Shota , Shoji Tetsuo , Lee Suhye , Yamaguchi Masao , Nishimura Mari , Tsujimoto Yoshihiro , Nakatani Shinya , Morioka Tomoaki , Mori Katsuhito , Emoto Masanori
Published: January 2022

Carnitine deficiency is prevalent in patients undergoing hemodialysis, and it could result in lowered muscle strength. So far, the effect of treatment with levocarnitine on lower limb muscle strength has not been well described. This observational study examined the association between treatment with levocarnitine with the change in knee extensor strength (KES) in hemodialysis patients. Eligible patients were selected from the participants enrolled in a prospective cohort study for whom muscle strength was measured annually. We identified 104 eligible patients for this analysis. During the one-year period between 2014 to 2015, 67 patients were treated with intravenous levocarnitine (1000 mg per shot, thrice weekly), whereas 37 patients were not. The change in KES was significantly higher (p = 0.01) in the carnitine group [0.02 (0.01–0.04) kgf/kg] as compared to the non-carnitine group [−0.02 (−0.04 to 0.01) kgf/kg]. Multivariable-adjusted regression analysis showed the positive association between the change in KES and the treatment with levocarnitine remained significant after adjustment for the baseline KES and other potential confounders. Thus, treatment with intravenous levocarnitine was independently and positively associated with the change in KES among hemodialysis patients. Further clinical trials are needed to provide more solid evidence.
Modulation of Dendritic Cells by Microbiota Extracellular Vesicles Influences the Cytokine Profile and Exosome Cargo
Authors: Diaz-Garrido Natalia , Badia Josefa , Baldomà Laura
Published: January 2022

Gut bacteria release extracellular vesicles (BEVs) as an intercellular communication mechanism that primes the host innate immune system. BEVs from E. coli activate dendritic cells (DCs) and subsequent T-cell responses in a strain-specific manner. The specific immunomodulatory effects were, in part, mediated by differential regulation of miRNAs. This study aimed to deepen understanding of the mechanisms of BEVs to drive specific immune responses by analyzing their impact on DC-secreted cytokines and exosomes. DCs were challenged with BEVs from probiotic and commensal E. coli strains. The ability of DC-secreted factors to activate T-cell responses was assessed by cytokine quantification in indirect DCs/naïve CD4+ T-cells co-cultures on Transwell supports. DC-exosomes were characterized in terms of costimulatory molecules and miRNAs cargo. In the absence of direct cellular contacts, DC-secreted factors triggered secretion of effector cytokines by T-cells with the same trend as direct DC/T-cell co-cultures. The main differences between the strains influenced the production of Th1- and Treg-specific cytokines. Exosomes released by BEV-activated DCs were enriched in surface proteins involved in antigen presentation and T-cell activation, but differed in the content of immune-related miRNA, depending on the origin of the BEVs. These differences were consistent with the derived immune responses.
Exploring the Determinants of Food Choice in Chinese Mainlanders and Chinese Immigrants: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang-Chen Yixi , Kellow Nicole J. , Choi Tammie S. T.
Published: January 2022

Determinants of food choice in Chinese populations have not been systematically synthesised using a cultural lens. This study reviewed qualitative studies exploring food choice determinants of both Chinese mainlanders and Chinese immigrants living in Western countries. Ovid Medline, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure database (CNKI) were searched from database inception to 1 April 2021. Studies were included if they involved qualitative research methods, were written in English or Chinese, investigated the factors influencing food choices, and targeted Chinese mainlanders or Chinese immigrants living in Western countries. Twenty-five studies (24 in English, 1 in Chinese) were included, involving 2048 participants. Four themes were identified; (1) the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), (2) perceptions of a healthy diet in Chinese culture (e.g., regular eating, eating in moderation, and emphasis on food freshness), (3) the desire to maintain harmony in families/communities, and (4) physical/social environmental factors all significantly influenced Chinese people’s food choices. It is important to acknowledge these factors when developing culturally appropriate nutrition programs for promoting health in Chinese mainlanders and Chinese immigrants.
Life before and after COVID-19: The ‘New Normal’ Benefits the Regularity of Daily Sleep and Eating Routines among College Students
Authors: Ramírez-Contreras Catalina , Zerón-Rugerio María Fernanda , Izquierdo-Pulido Maria
Published: January 2022

After the COVID-19 lockdown, a ‘new normal’ was established, involving a hybrid lifestyle that combined face-to-face with virtual activity. We investigated, in a case-control study, the impact of the ‘new normal’ on daily sleep and eating routines, compared with pre-pandemic conditions. To do this, we propose using social and eating jet lag as markers of the regularity in daily routines. Additionally, we studied whether the ‘new normal’ had an impact on the body mass index (BMI), diet quality, and other health-related variables. This study included 71 subjects in the pre-pandemic group, and 68 in the ‘new normal’ group (20–30 years). For all participants, we evaluated social and eating jet lag, BMI, diet and sleep quality, eating behaviors, physical activity, and well-being. General linear models were used to compare outcome variables between pre-pandemic and ‘new normal’ groups. The results revealed that the ‘new normal’ was associated with greater regularity in daily sleep and eating routines (−0.7 h of social jet lag (95% CI: −1.0, −0.4), and −0.3 h of eating jet lag (95% CI: −0.5, −0.1)), longer sleep duration on weekdays (1.8 h (95% CI: 1.5, 2.2)), and lower sleep debt (−1.3 h (95% CI: −1.7, −0.9)). Regarding BMI and other health-related variables, we observed that these variables were similar between ‘new normal’ and pre-pandemic groups. These findings indicate that the ‘new normal’ had a positive impact on daily sleep and eating routines. Additionally, our results indicated that the ‘new normal’ offered college students a more sustainable lifestyle, which was associated with more hours of sleep during the week and lower sleep debt. This, in the long run, could have a positive impact on BMI and overall health.
Dietary Exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Dioxins and Its Relationship to Telomere Length in Subjects Older Than 55 Years from the SUN Project
Authors: Alonso-Pedrero Lucia , Donat-Vargas Carolina , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Ojeda-Rodríguez Ana , Zalba Guillermo , Razquin Cristina , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Marti Amelia
Published: January 2022

Exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) may influence telomere length (TL), which is considered as a marker of biological age associated with the risk of chronic disease. We hypothesized that dietary exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxins could affect TL. Our aim was to evaluate the association of dietary exposure to PCBs and dioxins with TL. In this cross-sectional study of 886 subjects older than 55 y (mean age: 67.7; standard deviation (SD): 6.1; 27% women) from the “Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra” (SUN) project. TL was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and dietary PCBs and dioxins exposure was collected using a validated 136-item Food Frequency Questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression models were used to control for potential confounding factors. Shorter TL was associated with dietary total PCBs (SD of T/S ratio/(ng/day) = −0.30 × 10−7; 95% CI, −0.55 × 10−7 to −0.06 × 10−7), dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) (SD of T/S ratio/(pg WHO TEQ (Toxic Equivalents)/day) = −6.17 × 10−7; 95% CI, −11.30 × 10−7 to −1.03 × 10−7), and total TEQ exposure (SD of T/S ratio/(pg WHO TEQ/day) = −5.02 × 10−7; 95% CI, −9.44 × 10−7 to −0.61 × 10−7), but not with dioxins (SD of T/S ratio/(pg WHO TEQ/day) = −13.90 × 10−7; 95% CI, −37.70 × 10−7 to 9.79 × 10−7). In this sample of middle-aged and older Spanish adults, dietary exposure to total PCBs and DL-PCBs alone and together with dioxins was associated with shorter TL. Further longitudinal studies, preferably with POPs measured in biological samples, are needed to confirm this finding.
Efficacy of Probiotics in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sanchez Pauline , Letarouilly Jean-Guillaume , Nguyen Yann , Sigaux Johanna , Barnetche Thomas , Czernichow Sébastien , Flipo René-Marc , Sellam Jérémie , Daïen Claire
Published: January 2022

Background: We aimed to provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of probiotics supplementation on symptoms and disease activity in patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondylarthritis (SpA), or psoriatic arthritis). Methods: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis from RA and SpA randomized controlled trials were conducted searching for articles in MEDLINE/PubMed and abstracts from recent international rheumatology meetings. The control group was a placebo or another dietary intervention. The risk of bias of the selected studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool and the Jadad scale. Results: The initial search yielded 173 articles. Of these, 13 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, 8 concerning a total of 344 RA patients and 2 concerning a total of 197 SpA patients. Three meta-analyses were also analyzed. Probiotic strains and quantities used were different among trials (5 studies using Lactobacillus sp., 1 trial Bacillus coagulans and the others a mix of different probiotic strains). Time to assess response ranged from 8 weeks to one year. Two studies associated probiotic supplementation with a dietary intervention. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant decrease of C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration (mean difference (MD)) −3.04 (95% CI −4.47, −1.62) mg/L, p < 0.001; I2 = 20%, n patients = 209) with probiotics in RA. However, after excluding high-risk-of-bias trials of meta-analysis, there was no difference between probiotics and placebo on DAS28 (standard MD −0.54; 95% CI −1.94 to 0.85, p = 0.45, I2 93%, n patients = 143). The two studies on SpA patients showed no efficacy of probiotics. Conclusions: Probiotic supplementation might decrease RA activity with a moderate decrease effect on CRP, but lack of evidence and studies’ heterogeneity do not allow us to propose them to patients with inflammatory arthritis to control their disease. Further RCTs are required in the future to determinate the efficacy of probiotics and the optimal administration design.
When Eating Becomes Torturous: Understanding Nutrition-Related Cancer Treatment Side Effects among Individuals with Cancer and Their Caregivers
Authors: Milliron Brandy-Joe , Packel Lora , Dychtwald Dan , Klobodu Cynthia , Pontiggia Laura , Ogbogu Ochi , Barksdale Byron , Deutsch Jonathan
Published: January 2022

Individuals living with cancer often experience multiple nutrition-related side effects from cancer treatment, including changes in taste and smell, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and pain during eating. These side effects can profoundly impact nutritional status and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to explore experiences with nutrition-related cancer treatment side effects among cancer patients and their family caregivers, the way they manage such side effects, and the resulting changes in food preferences and behaviors. Structured surveys and in-depth interviews were conducted. Interviews focused on the presence and management of treatment side effects, how those changes influenced food preferences, and the extent to which they interfered with quality of life. Most patients (72%) reported treatment side effects; 61% reported that these side effects impacted their eating and drinking. Common side effects included fatigue (58%), dry mouth (30%), nausea (24%), constipation (20%) and diarrhea (20%). Six overarching qualitative themes were identified: Spiral of side effects; Pain of eating; Burden of eating; Loss of taste/change in taste; Symptom management; and Solutions. The authors conclude with implications for food and nutrition practice—moving beyond traditional recommendations of what to eat or avoid—to consider the overall patient and caregiver experience.
Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) Gene Polymorphisms Modify the Response to Vitamin D Supplementation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Usategui-Martín Ricardo , De Luis-Román Daniel-Antonio , Fernández-Gómez José María , Ruiz-Mambrilla Marta , Pérez-Castrillón José-Luis
Published: January 2022

The vitamin D receptor (VDR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcriptional regulators, is crucial to calcitriol signalling. VDR is regulated by genetic and environmental factors and it is hypothesised that the response to vitamin D supplementation could be modulated by genetic variants in the VDR gene. The best studied polymorphisms in the VDR gene are Apal (rs7975232), BsmI (rs1544410), Taql (rs731236) and Fokl (rs10735810). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the response to vitamin D supplementation according to the BsmI, TaqI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms. We included studies that analysed the relationship between the response to vitamin D supplementation and the genotypic distribution of these polymorphisms. We included eight studies that enrolled 1038 subjects. The results showed no significant association with the BsmI and ApaI polymorphisms (p = 0.081 and p = 0.63) and that the variant allele (Tt+tt) of the TaqI polymorphism and the FF genotype of the FokI variant were associated with a better response to vitamin D supplementation (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001). In conclusion, the TaqI and FokI polymorphisms could play a role in the modulation of the response to vitamin D supplementation, as they are associated with a better response to supplementation.
Observation of Traditional Caregiver-Infant Feeding Behaviours and Porridge and Energy Intakes during One Meal to Define Key Messages for Promoting Responsive Feeding in the Amparafaravola District, Rural Madagascar
Authors: Razafindratsima Yannick , Razakandrainy Andrimampionona , Fortin Sonia , Ralison Charlotte , Mouquet-Rivier Claire
Published: January 2022

Undernutrition is highly prevalent in young children in Madagascar and insufficient intake per meal could be one of the main causes. A cross-sectional survey of infant feeding practices including video-recorded meal observations was carried out with 101 caregiver–infant pairs in the Amparafaravola district, Northeast Madagascar. The objective was to quantify the porridge/energy intake of 9–11-month-old children and assess its association with the caregiver–infant feeding behaviours. Then, key messages for promoting responsive feeding (RF) were developed and tested through focus group discussions. The mean porridge intake was 12.8 ± 7.5 g/kg body weight (BW)/meal, corresponding to hardly one-third of the 300 kcal recommended from complementary foods for 9–11-month-old children. Analysis of meal videos suggested that mothers practiced the five positive feeding behaviours (self-feeding, responsive, active, social, and distraction), and rarely the negative ones. Only 6.9% of mothers used positive RF “very frequently”, although it was associated with higher intakes (p < 0.05), with mean intake reaching 21 g/kg BW. In focus groups, caregivers approved the six RF messages and related counselling cards. They suggested some modifications to improve their understanding, and counselling cards were revised accordingly. The long-term impact of RF-promoting card use on the meal intakes and the nutritional status of young children must now be assessed.
Prenatal Folate and Choline Levels and Brain and Cognitive Development in Children: A Critical Narrative Review
Authors: Irvine Nathalie , England-Mason Gillian , Field Catherine J. , Dewey Deborah , Aghajafari Fariba
Published: January 2022

Women’s nutritional status during pregnancy can have long-term effects on children’s brains and cognitive development. Folate and choline are methyl-donor nutrients and are important for closure of the neural tube during fetal development. They have also been associated with brain and cognitive development in children. Animal studies have observed that prenatal folate and choline supplementation is associated with better cognitive outcomes in offspring and that these nutrients may have interactive effects on brain development. Although some human studies have reported associations between maternal folate and choline levels and child cognitive outcomes, results are not consistent, and no human studies have investigated the potential interactive effects of folate and choline. This lack of consistency could be due to differences in the methods used to assess folate and choline levels, the gestational trimester at which they were measured, and lack of consideration of potential confounding variables. This narrative review discusses and critically reviews current research examining the associations between maternal levels of folate and choline during pregnancy and brain and cognitive development in children. Directions for future research that will increase our understanding of the effects of these nutrients on children’s neurodevelopment are discussed.
Presence of Increased Mast Cells in Infants and Children with Volume and Variety Limited Intake
Authors: Issa Amy , Edwards Jensen , Singh Meenal , Friesen Craig , Edwards Sarah
Published: January 2022

Background: Reports indicate patients with feeding difficulties demonstrate signs of inflammation on biopsies, notably eosinophilia, but it is unknown whether mast cell density contributes to variety or volume limitation symptoms. The aim of our study was to evaluate eosinophil and mast cell density of EGD biopsies in pediatric patients with symptoms of decreased volume or variety of ingested foods. Methods: We conducted a single-center, retrospective chart review of EMRs for all new feeding clinic patients between 0 and 17 years of age. Patients were categorized by symptoms at the initial visit as well as eosinophil and mast cell densities in those with EGD biopsies. Ten patients were identified as controls. Results: We identified 30 patients each with volume and variety limitation. Antral mast cell density was increased in 32.1% of variety-limited patients, 37.5% of volume limited patients, and in no controls; Duodenal mast cell density was increased in 32.1% of variety-limited patients, 40.6% of volume-limited patients, and in no controls. Conclusions: In both variety- and volume-limited patients, antral and duodenal mast cell densities were increased. These associations warrant further investigation of the mechanism between mast cells and development of feeding difficulties, allowing more targeted pediatric therapies.
Diet and Physical Activity as Determinants of Continuously Measured Glucose Levels in Persons at High Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Park Su Hyun , Yao Jiali , Chua Xin Hui , Chandran Suresh Rama , Gardner Daphne S. L. , Khoo Chin Meng , Müller-Riemenschneider Falk , Whitton Clare , van Dam Rob M.
Published: January 2022

We examined how dietary and physical activity behaviors influence fluctuations in blood glucose levels over a seven-day period in people at high risk for diabetes. Twenty-eight participants underwent a mixed meal tolerance test to assess glucose homeostasis at baseline. Subsequently, they wore an accelerometer to assess movement behaviors, recorded their dietary intakes through a mobile phone application, and wore a flash glucose monitoring device that measured glucose levels every 15 min for seven days. Generalized estimating equation models were used to assess the associations of metabolic and lifestyle risk factors with glycemic variability. Higher BMI, amount of body fat, and selected markers of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance from the meal tolerance test were associated with higher mean glucose levels during the seven days. Moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity and polyunsaturated fat intake were independently associated with less variation in glucose levels (CV%). Higher protein and polyunsaturated fatty acid intakes were associated with more time-in-range. In contrast, higher carbohydrate intake was associated with less time-in-range. Our findings suggest that dietary composition (a higher intake of polyunsaturated fat and protein and lower intake of carbohydrates) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity may reduce fluctuations in glucose levels in persons at high risk of diabetes.
Application of a Machine Learning Technology in the Definition of Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Status: A Retrospective Study of 2567 Subjects Suffering from Obesity with or without Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Masi Davide , Risi Renata , Biagi Filippo , Vasquez Barahona Daniel , Watanabe Mikiko , Zilich Rita , Gabrielli Gabriele , Santin Pierluigi , Mariani Stefania , Lubrano Carla , Gnessi Lucio
Published: January 2022

The key factors playing a role in the pathogenesis of metabolic alterations observed in many patients with obesity have not been fully characterized. Their identification is crucial, and it would represent a fundamental step towards better management of this urgent public health issue. This aim could be accomplished by exploiting the potential of machine learning (ML) technology. In a single-centre study (n = 2567), we used an ML analysis to cluster patients with metabolically healthy (MHO) or metabolically unhealthy (MUO) obesity, based on several clinical and biochemical variables. The first model provided by ML was able to predict the presence/absence of MHO with an accuracy of 66.67% and 72.15%, respectively, and included the following parameters: HOMA-IR, upper body fat/lower body fat, glycosylated haemoglobin, red blood cells, age, alanine aminotransferase, uric acid, white blood cells, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and gamma-glutamyl transferase. For each of these parameters, ML provided threshold values identifying either MUO or MHO. A second model including IGF-1 zSDS, a surrogate marker of IGF-1 normalized by age and sex, was even more accurate with a 71.84% and 72.3% precision, respectively. Our results demonstrated high IGF-1 levels in MHO patients, thus highlighting a possible role of IGF-1 as a novel metabolic health parameter to effectively predict the development of MUO using ML technology.
Effectiveness of a Per-Meal Protein Prescription and Nutrition Education with versus without Diet Coaching on Dietary Protein Intake and Muscle Health in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Jackson Kelley L. , Gropper Sareen S. , Hunt Dennis , D’Avolio Deborah , Newman David
Published: January 2022

Sufficient dietary protein intake is vital to maintaining muscle health with aging. Yet protein intake among adults is often inadequate. This study’s main objective was to examine the impact of nutrition education (NE) and a per-meal protein prescription (PRx) with versus without diet coaching on protein intake. A secondary objective examined its effects on muscle health. Participants included 53 women, age 45–64 years. All participants received NE and PRx; those randomized to coached-group received 10-weeks of diet coaching. Assessments included: protein intake at baseline, weeks 4 and 12 and muscle health (muscle mass, grip strength, five-chair rise test, 4 mgait speed test). The Chi-square test examined percentages of participants meeting PRx between groups. Repeated measures analysis of variance assessed within group and intervention effects on protein intake and muscle health parameters. Protein intake (g/kg body weight) increased (p < 0.001): not-coached (n = 28) 0.8 ± 0.2 to 1.2 ± 0.3 and coached (n = 25) 1.0 ± 0.2 to 1.4 ± 0.3 with no significant difference between groups. A greater percentage of coached-group participants met (p = 0.04) breakfast (72%) and met (p < 0.001) three-meal (76%) PRx versus not-coached participants (25% and 53%, respectively). Participants in both groups exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) improved times for the five-chair rise test and 4 mgait speed test. Diet coaching in conjunction with a PRx and NE should be considered to assist individuals in improving protein intake through self-selection of protein-rich foods.
HERV-K and HERV-H Env Proteins Induce a Humoral Response in Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Manca Maria Antonietta , Solinas Tatiana , Simula Elena Rita , Noli Marta , Ruberto Stefano , Madonia Massimo , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: January 2022

A higher expression of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) has been associated with several malignancies, including prostate cancer, implying a possible use as a diagnostic or prognostic cancer biomarker. For this reason, we examined the humoral response against different epitopes obtained from the envelope protein of HERV-K (HERV-K env-su19–37, HERV-K env-su109–126), HERV-H (HERV-H env-su229–241, HERV-H env387–399) and HERV-W (HERV-W env-su93–108, HERV-W env-su248–262) in the plasma of patients affected by prostate cancer (PCa), and compared to that of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and a borderline group of patients with atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP) and prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) and healthy controls. A significant antibody response was observed against HERV-K env-su109–126 (p = 0.004) and HERV-H env-su229–241 (p < 0.0001) in PCa patients compared to HCs, BPH and borderline cohorts, whilst no significance difference was found in the antibodies against HERV-W env-su93–108 and HERV-W env-su248–262 in patients with PCa. Our results provided further proof of the association between HERV-K and PCa and added new evidence about the possible involvement of HERV-H in PCa pathogenesis, highlighting their possibility of being used as biomarkers of the disease.