bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silver Nanocolloids Loaded with Betulinic Acid with Enhanced Antitumor Potential: Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Pinzaru Iulia , Sarau Cristian , Coricovac Dorina , Marcovici Iasmina , Utescu Crinela , Tofan Sergiu , Popovici Ramona Amina , Manea Horatiu Cristian , Pavel Ioana E. , Soica Codruta , Dehelean Cristina
Published: January 2021

Betulinic acid (BA), a natural compound with various health benefits including selective antitumor activity, has a limited applicability in vivo due to its poor water solubility and bioavailability. Thus, this study focused on obtaining a BA nano-sized formulation with improved solubility and enhanced antitumor activity using silver nanocolloids (SilCo and PEG_SilCo) as drug carriers. The synthesis was performed using a chemical method and the physicochemical characterization was achieved applying UV-Vis absorption, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman and photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). The biological evaluation was conducted on two in vitro experimental models—hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and lung cancer (A549) cell lines. The physicochemical characterization showed the following results: an average hydrodynamic diameter of 32 nm for SilCo_BA and 71 nm for PEG_SilCo_BA, a spherical shape, and a loading capacity of 54.1% for SilCo_BA and 61.9% for PEG_SilCo_BA, respectively. The in vitro assessment revealed a cell type- and time-dependent cytotoxic effect characterized by a decrease in cell viability as follows: (i) SilCo_BA (66.44%) < PEG_SilCo_BA (72.05%) < BA_DMSO (75.30%) in HepG2 cells, and (ii) SilCo_BA (75.28%) < PEG_SilCo_BA (86.80%) < BA_DMSO (87.99%) in A549 cells. The novel silver nanocolloids loaded with BA induced an augmented anticancer effect as compared to BA alone.
On the Reaction Pathways and Growth Mechanisms of LiNbO3 Nanocrystals from the Non-Aqueous Solvothermal Alkoxide Route
Authors: Urbain Mathias , Riporto Florian , Beauquis Sandrine , Monnier Virginie , Marty Jean-Christophe , Galez Christine , Durand Christiane , Chevolot Yann , Dantec Ronan Le , Mugnier Yannick
Published: January 2021

Phase-pure, highly crystalline sub-50 nm LiNbO3 nanocrystals were prepared from a non-aqueous solvothermal process for 72 h at 230 °C and a commercial precursor solution of mixed lithium niobium ethoxide in its parent alcohol. A systematic variation of the reaction medium composition with the addition of different amounts of co-solvent including butanol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, and 1,5-pentanediol resulted in the formation of nanocrystals of adjustable mean size and shape anisotropy, as demonstrated from XRD measurements and TEM imaging. Colloidal stability of ethanol- and water-based suspensions was evaluated from dynamic light scattering (DLS)/zeta potential studies and correlated with FTIR data. Thanks to the evolution in the nanocrystal size and shape distribution we observed, as well as to the available literature on the alkoxide chemistry, the reaction pathways and growth mechanisms were finally discussed with a special attention on the monomer formation rate, leading to the nucleation step. The polar, non-perovskite crystalline structure of LiNbO3 was also evidenced to play a major role in the nanocrystal shape anisotropy.
Synthesis of Two-Dimensional Sr-Doped LaNiO3 Nanosheets with Improved Electrochemical Performance for Energy Storage
Authors: Zhang Bin , Liu Ping , Li Zijiong , Song Xiaohui
Published: January 2021

Designing a novel, efficient, and cost-effective nanostructure with the advantage of robust morphology and outstanding conductivity is highly promising for the electrode materials of high-performance electrochemical storage device. In this paper, a series of honeycombed perovskite-type Sr-doped LaNiO3 nanosheets with abundant porous structure were successfully synthesized by accurately controlling the Sr-doped content. The study showed that the optimal LSNO-0.4 (La0.6Sr0.4NiO3-δ) electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, which showed a high capacity of 115.88 mAh g−1 at 0.6 A g−1. Furthermore, a hybrid supercapacitor device (LSNO//AC) based on LSNO-0.4 composites and activated carbon (AC) showed a high energy density of 17.94 W h kg−1, a high power density of 1600 W kg−1, and an outstanding long-term stability with 104.4% capacity retention after 16,000 cycles, showing an excellent electrochemical performance and a promising application as an electrode for energy storage.
Atomistic Insights into Aluminum Doping Effect on Surface Roughness of Deposited Ultra-Thin Silver Films
Authors: Tian Zhong , Yan Han , Peng Qing , Guo Lin Jay , Zhou Shengjun , Ding Can , Li Peng , Luo Qi
Published: January 2021

Ultra-thin and continuous metallic silver films are attracting growing interest due to the applications in flexible transparent conducting electrodes. The surface morphology and structure of silver film are very important for its electrical resistivity and optical loss. Therefore, roughness control is essential for the production of ultra-thin metallic electrode film. We have investigated the effect of aluminum doping on the improvement of surface morphology of ultra-thin silver films using molecular dynamics simulations. Al-doped silver films showed smaller surface roughness than pure silver films at various substrate temperatures. When the temperature of the substrate was 600 K, the roughness of Al-doped silver film first decreased, and then increased with the increase of the incident velocity of silver atoms. Silver atoms were more likely to agglomerate on the surface of the substrate after adding aluminum atoms, as aluminum dopants promoted the immobilization of silver atoms on SiO2 substrate due to the anchoring effect. The smoother surface could be attributable to the reduced mean free path of silver due to the cage effect by the aluminum dopant.
Curcumin Loaded Polymeric vs. Lipid Nanoparticles: Antioxidant Effect on Normal and Hypoxic Olfactory Ensheathing Cells
Authors: Bonaccorso Angela , Pellitteri Rosalia , Ruozi Barbara , Puglia Carmelo , Santonocito Debora , Pignatello Rosario , Musumeci Teresa
Published: January 2021

Background: Curcumin (Cur) shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on central nervous system diseases. The aim of this study was to develop Cur-loaded polymeric and lipid nanoparticles for intranasal delivery to enhance its stability and increase antioxidant effect on olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs). Methods: The nanosuspensions were subjected to physico-chemical and technological evaluation through photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and UV-spectrophotometry. The cytotoxicity studies of nanosuspensions were carried out on OECs. A viability test was performed after 24 h of exposure of OECs to unloaded and curcumin-loaded nanosuspensions. The potential protective effect of Cur was assessed on hypoxic OECs cells. Uptake studies were performed on the same cell cultures. Thermal analysis was performed to evaluate potential interaction of Cur with a 1,2-Dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) biomembrane model. Results: PCS analysis indicated that lipid and polymeric nanosuspensions showed a mean size of 127.10 and 338.20 nm, respectively, high homogeneity and negative zeta potential. Incorporation of Cur into both nanocarriers increased drug stability up to 135 days in cryoprotected freeze-dried nanosuspensions. Cell viability was improved when hypoxic OECs were treated with Cur-loaded polymeric and lipid nanosuspensions compared with the control. Conclusions: Both nanocarriers could improve the stability of Cur as demonstrated by technological studies. Biological studies revealed that both nanocarriers could be used to deliver Cur by intranasal administration for brain targeting.
Multiscale Numerical Modeling for Prediction of Piezoresistive Effect for Polymer Composites with a Highly Segregated Structure
Authors: Lebedev Oleg V. , Ozerin Alexander N. , Abaimov Sergey G.
Published: January 2021

In this work, the piezoresistive effect for a polymer nanocomposite with a highly segregated distribution of conductive filler was investigated. As a base polymer for the investigated nanocomposites, ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene, processed in a solid state (below melting point), was used. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as a nanofiller forming a highly segregated structure in between polymer particles. A numerical multiscale approach based on the finite element method was proposed to predict changes in the conductive structure composed of MWCNTs in response to uniaxial deformation of the material. At the nanoscale, numerical simulations were conducted for uniformly distributed MWCNTs providing confinement of the filler to a two-dimensional layer with a high volume fraction of the filler in between two polymer particles. At the microscale, the piezoresistive response to uniaxial deformation for the three-dimensional highly segregated structure reconstructed from experimental data was investigated numerically. The embedded element method was implemented to conduct a realistic and computationally efficient simulation of MWCNT behavior during deformation of the nanocomposite. The results of numerical simulations were compared with the experimental data to prove the correctness of assumptions used in the modeling.
Role of Nanoimprint Lithography for Strongly Miniaturized Optical Spectrometers
Authors: Hillmer Hartmut , Woidt Carsten , Istock André , Kobylinskiy Aliaksei , Nguyen Duc Toan , Ahmed Naureen , Brunner Robert , Kusserow Thomas
Published: January 2021

Optical spectrometers and sensors have gained enormous importance in metrology and information technology, frequently involving the question of size, resolution, sensitivity, spectral range, efficiency, reliability, and cost. Nanomaterials and nanotechnological fabrication technologies have huge potential to enable an optimization between these demands, which in some cases are counteracting each other. This paper focuses on the visible and near infrared spectral range and on five types of optical sensors (optical spectrometers): classical grating-based miniaturized spectrometers, arrayed waveguide grating devices, static Fabry–Pérot (FP) filter arrays on sensor arrays, tunable microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) FP filter arrays, and MEMS tunable photonic crystal filters. The comparison between this selection of concepts concentrates on (i) linewidth and resolution, (ii) required space for a selected spectral range, (iii) efficiency in using available light, and (iv) potential of nanoimprint for cost reduction and yield increase. The main part of this review deals with our own results in the field of static FP filter arrays and MEMS tunable FP filter arrays. In addition, technology for efficiency boosting to get more of the available light is demonstrated.
Nanothermodynamic Description and Molecular Simulation of a Single-Phase Fluid in a Slit Pore
Authors: Galteland Olav , Bedeaux Dick , Kjelstrup Signe
Published: January 2021

We have described for the first time the thermodynamic state of a highly confined single-phase and single-component fluid in a slit pore using Hill’s thermodynamics of small systems. Hill’s theory has been named nanothermodynamics. We started by constructing an ensemble of slit pores for controlled temperature, volume, surface area, and chemical potential. We have presented the integral and differential properties according to Hill, and used them to define the disjoining pressure on the new basis. We identified all thermodynamic pressures by their mechanical counterparts in a consistent manner, and have given evidence that the identification holds true using molecular simulations. We computed the entropy and energy densities, and found in agreement with the literature, that the structures at the wall are of an energetic, not entropic nature. We have shown that the subdivision potential is unequal to zero for small wall surface areas. We have showed how Hill’s method can be used to find new Maxwell relations of a confined fluid, in addition to a scaling relation, which applies when the walls are far enough apart. By this expansion of nanothermodynamics, we have set the stage for further developments of the thermodynamics of confined fluids, a field that is central in nanotechnology.
Comparison of Different Protein Emulsifiers on Physicochemical Properties of β-Carotene-Loaded Nanoemulsion: Effect on Formation, Stability, and In Vitro Digestion
Authors: Liu Yanlong , Liu Chang , Zhang Shenyi , Li Jishu , Zheng Huanyu , Jin Hua , Xu Jing
Published: January 2021

In this study, β-carotene-loaded nanoemulsions are emulsified using four biomacromolecular proteins—peanut protein isolate (PPI), soy protein isolate (SPI), rice bran protein isolate (RBPI), and whey protein isolate (WPI)—in order to explore their emulsion stability and in vitro digestion characteristics. All four nanoemulsions attained high encapsulation levels (over 90%). During the three-stage in vitro digestion model (including oral, gastric, and small intestine digestion phases), the PPI-emulsified nanoemulsion showed the highest lipolysis rates (117.39%) and bioaccessibility (37.39%) among the four nanoemulsions. Moreover, the PPI-emulsified nanoemulsion (with the smallest droplet size) also demonstrated the highest stability during storage and centrifugation, while those for the RBPI-emulsified nanoemulsion (with the largest droplet size) were the lowest. In addition, all four nanoemulsions showed superior oxidation stability when compared with the blank control of corn oil. The oxidation rates of the PPI- and WPI-stabilized groups were slower than the other two groups.
Photocatalytic Properties of Eco-Friendly ZnO Nanostructures on 3D-Printed Polylactic Acid Scaffolds
Authors: Sevastaki Maria , Papadakis Vassilis M. , Romanitan Cosmin , Suchea Mirela Petruta , Kenanakis George
Published: January 2021

The present paper reports a novel approach for fabrication of eco-friendly ZnO nanoparticles onto three-dimensional (3D)-printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds/structures. Several alcohol-based traditional Greek liquors were used to achieve the corrosion of metallic zinc collected from a typical galvanic anode to obtain photocatalytic active nanostructured ZnO, varying from water, to Greek “ouzo” and “raki”, and pure ethanol, in combination with “Baker’s ammonia” (ammonium bicarbonate), sold worldwide in every food store. The photocatalytic active ZnO nanostructures onto three-dimensional (3D)-printed PLA scaffolds were used to achieve the degradation of 50 ppm paracetamol in water, under UV irradiation. This study provides evidence that following the proposed low-cost, eco-friendly routes for the fabrication of large-scale photocatalysts, an almost 95% degradation of 50 ppm paracetamol in water can be achieved, making the obtained 3D ZnO/PLA structures excellent candidates for real life environmental applications. This is the first literature research report on a successful attempt of using this approach for the engineering of low-cost photocatalytic active elements for pharmaceutical contaminants in waters.
Proanthocyanidins and Flavan-3-Ols in the Prevention and Treatment of Periodontitis—Antibacterial Effects
Authors: Nawrot-Hadzik Izabela , Matkowski Adam , Hadzik Jakub , Dobrowolska-Czopor Barbara , Olchowy Cyprian , Dominiak Marzena , Kubasiewicz-Ross Paweł
Published: January 2021

Flavan-3-ols and their oligomeric forms called proanthocyanidins are polyphenolic compounds occurring in several foodstuffs and in many medicinal herbs. Their consumption is associated with numerous health benefits. They exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, as well as antimicrobial activity. The latter property is important in the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases. Periodontitis is a multifactorial polymicrobial infection characterized by a destructive inflammatory process affecting the periodontium. Using non-toxic and efficient natural products such as flavanol derivatives can significantly contribute to alleviating periodontitis symptoms and preventing the disease’s progress. Therefore, a comprehensive systematic review of proanthocyanidins and flavan-3-ols in the prevention and treatment of periodontitis was performed. The present paper reviews the direct antibacterial effects of these compounds against periodontic pathogens. The immunomodulatory effects, including animal and clinical studies, are included in a separate, parallel article. There is significant evidence supporting the importance of the antibacterial action exerted by proanthocyanidins from edible fruits, tea, and medicinal herbs in the inhibition of periodontitis-causing pathogens.
Serum Levels of Vitamin D and Dental Caries in 7-Year-Old Children in Porto Metropolitan Area
Authors: Carvalho Silva Cátia , Gavinha Sandra , Manso Maria Conceição , Rodrigues Rita , Martins Sandra , Guimarães João Tiago , Santos Ana Cristina , Melo Paulo
Published: January 2021

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with significant changes in dental structures. In children, it can induce enamel and dentin defects, which have been identified as risk factors for caries. This study aimed to assess the association between low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) levels (<30 ng/mL) and the prevalence of caries in the permanent teeth and mixed dentition of 7-year-old children. A sample of 335 children from the population-based birth cohort Generation XXI (Porto, Portugal) was included. Data on children’s demographic and social conditions, health status, dental health behaviours, dental examination including erupted permanent first molars, and blood samples available for vitamin D analysis were collected. Dental outcomes included the presence of caries, including non-cavitated lesions (d1–6mft/D1–6MFT > 0), and advanced caries (d3–6mft/D3–6MF > 0). Serum 25(OH) D was measured using a competitive electrochemiluminescence immunoassay protein-binding assay. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used. Advanced caries in permanent teeth was significantly associated with children’s vitamin D levels <30 ng/mL, gastrointestinal disorders, higher daily intake of cariogenic food, and having had a dental appointment at ≤7 years old. Optimal childhood levels of vitamin D may be considered an additional preventive measure for dental caries in the permanent dentition.
Dietary Patterns and Progression of Impaired Kidney Function in Japanese Adults: A Longitudinal Analysis for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, 2011–2015
Authors: Ma Enbo , Ohira Tetsuya , Yasumura Seiji , Nakano Hironori , Eguchi Eri , Miyazaki Makoto , Hosoya Mitsuaki , Sakai Akira , Takahashi Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa , Kazama Junichiro , Shimabukuro Michio , Yabe Hirooki , Maeda Masaharu , Ohto Hitoshi , Kamiya Kenji
Published: January 2021

To investigate associations between dietary patterns and the risk of impaired kidney function, we analyzed data from 14,732 participants (40–89 years) who completed the baseline diet questionnaire of The Fukushima Health Management Survey in 2011. The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or proteinuria (≥1+ by dipstick test)) and annual changes in eGFR were assessed from 2012 to 2015. Three major dietary patterns were identified. The adjusted cumulative incidence ratio of the highest vs. lowest tertile of a vegetable diet scores was 0.90 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.82, 1.00) for eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, 0.68 (95% CI: 0.52, 0.90) for proteinuria, and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.80, 0.97) for CKD (P for trend = 0.031, 0.007, and 0.005, respectively). The incident risk of CKD in the highest tertile of juice diet scores was 18% higher than the lowest tertile. The odds ratio of the highest vs. lowest tertile of vegetable diet scores was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.75, 0.98) in the rapidly decreasing eGFR group (P for trend = 0.009). We did not observe significant associations for the meat dietary pattern. A Japanese vegetable diet could reduce the risk of developing impaired kidney function and CKD.
Nutritional Quality of Pasta Sold on the Italian Market: The Food Labelling of Italian Products (FLIP) Study
Authors: Dello Russo Marika , Spagnuolo Carmela , Moccia Stefania , Angelino Donato , Pellegrini Nicoletta , Martini Daniela ,   on behalf of the Italian Society of Human Nutrition (SINU) Young Working Group
Published: January 2021

Pasta represents a staple food in many populations and, in recent years, an increasing number of pasta items has been placed on the market to satisfy needs and trends. The aims of this work were: (i) to investigate the nutritional composition of the different types of pasta currently sold in Italy by collecting the nutrition facts on their packaging; (ii) to compare energy, nutrient and salt content per 100 g and serving in fresh and dried pasta; (iii) to compare the nutrition declaration in pairs of products with and without different declarations (i.e., gluten free (GF), organic, and nutrition claims (NC)). A total of 756 items, made available by 13 retailers present on the Italian market, were included in the analysis. Data showed a wide difference between dried and fresh pasta, with high inter-type variability. A negligible amount of salt was observed in all types of pasta, except for stuffed products, which had a median high quantity of salt (>1 g/100 g and ~1.5 g/serving). Organic pasta had higher fibre and lower protein contents compared to conventional pasta. GF products were higher in carbohydrate and fat but lower in fibre and protein than not-GF products, while only a higher fibre content was found in pasta with NC compared to products not boasting claims. Overall, the results show high variability in terms of nutrition composition among the pasta items currently on the market, supporting the importance of reading and understanding food labels for making informed food choices.
Vitamin D and Immunological Patterns of Allergic Diseases in Children
Authors: Lipińska-Opałka Agnieszka , Tomaszewska Agata , Kubiak Jacek Z. , Kalicki Bolesław
Published: January 2021

Vitamin D, in addition to its superior role as a factor regulating calcium-phosphate metabolism, shows wide effects in other processes in the human body, including key functions of the immune system. This is due to the presence of vitamin D receptors in most cells of the human body. In our study, we aimed to assess whether there is a correlation between vitamin D content and the clinical course of allergic diseases as well as establish their immunological parameters in children. We found that vitamin D deficiency was significantly more frequent in the group of children with an allergic disease than in the control group (p = 0.007). Statistically significant higher vitamin D concentrations in blood were observed in the group of children with a mild course of the disease compared to children with a severe clinical course (p = 0.03). In the group of children with vitamin D deficiency, statistically significant lower percentages of NKT lymphocytes and T-regulatory lymphocytes were detected compared to the group of children without deficiency (respectively, p = 0.02 and p = 0.05), which highlights a potential weakness of the immune system in these patients. Furthermore, statistically higher levels of interleukin-22 were observed in the group of children with vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.01), suggesting a proinflammatory alert state. In conclusion, these results confirm the positive relationship between the optimal content of vitamin D and the lesser severity of allergic diseases in children, establishing weak points in the immune system caused by vitamin D deficiency in children.
RETRACTED: Optimal Household Water Access Fosters the Attainment of Minimum Dietary Diversity among Children Aged 6–23 Months in Malawi
Authors: Chilinda Zizwani , Wahlqvist Mark , Lee Meei-Shyuan , Huang Yi-Chen
Published: January 2021

Along with sanitation and hygiene, water is a well-known driver of child undernutrition. However, a more direct role of household (HH) water access in shaping dietary diversity remains unexplored. We assessed the association between HH water access and achievement of minimum dietary diversity (MDD) among young children. We utilized nationally-representative cross-sectional data from the 2015/16 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey, which included 4727 mother–child dyads, respectively, (26.8 ± 6.8 years, range 15–49 years) and (13.9 ± 4.9 months, range 6–23 months). HH water access was categorized as (1) basic or no access, (2) intermediate, or (3) optimal. MDD was defined as feeding a child, during the previous day, at least four of the food groups defined by the World Health Organization. Only 27.7% of the children achieved MDD standards; most of the children who achieved MDD were from HHs with optimal water access (58.4%, p < 0.001). However, only 5.9% of the mother–child dyads were from HHs with optimal water access. After adjusting for covariates, children from HHs with optimal water access had higher odds of achieving MDD than those from HHs with basic or no water access (aOR = 1.74, CI = 1.24–2.46). Our results highlight the need to incorporate water-based strategies into national nutritional policies to increase dietary diversity among Malawian infants and young children.
Iron Deficiency Reprograms Phosphorylation Signaling and Reduces O-GlcNAc Pathways in Neuronal Cells
Authors: Erber Luke N. , Luo Ang , Gong Yao , Beeson Montana , Tu Maolin , Tran Phu , Chen Yue
Published: January 2021

Micronutrient sensing is critical for cellular growth and differentiation. Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron strongly affect neuronal cell development and may lead to defects in neuronal function that cannot be remedied by subsequent iron supplementation. To understand the adaptive intracellular responses to iron deficiency in neuronal cells, we developed and utilized a Stable Isotopic Labeling of Amino acids in Cell culture (SILAC)-based quantitative phosphoproteomics workflow. Our integrated approach was designed to comprehensively elucidate the changes in phosphorylation signaling under both acute and chronic iron-deficient cell models. In addition, we analyzed the differential cellular responses between iron deficiency and hypoxia (oxygen-deprived) in neuronal cells. Our analysis identified nearly 16,000 phosphorylation sites in HT-22 cells, a hippocampal-derived neuronal cell line, more than ten percent of which showed at least ≥2-fold changes in response to either hypoxia or acute/chronic iron deficiency. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that iron deficiency altered key metabolic and epigenetic pathways including the phosphorylation of proteins involved in iron sequestration, glutamate metabolism, and histone methylation. In particular, iron deficiency increased glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase (GFPT1) phosphorylation, which is a key enzyme in the glucosamine biosynthesis pathway and a target of 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), leading to reduced GFPT1 enzymatic activity and consequently lower global O-GlcNAc modification in neuronal cells. Taken together, our analysis of the phosphoproteome dynamics in response to iron and oxygen deprivation demonstrated an adaptive cellular response by mounting post-translational modifications that are critical for intracellular signaling and epigenetic programming in neuronal cells.
A Narrative Review on Sarcopenia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Izzo Anna , Massimino Elena , Riccardi Gabriele , Della Pepa Giuseppe
Published: January 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a major health burden for the elderly population, affecting approximately 25% of people over the age of 65 years. This percentage is expected to increase dramatically in the next decades in relation to the increased longevity of the population observed in recent years. Beyond microvascular and macrovascular complications, sarcopenia has been described as a new diabetes complication in the elderly population. Increasing attention has been paid by researchers and clinicians to this age-related condition—characterized by loss of skeletal muscle mass together with the loss of muscle power and function—in individuals with T2DM; this is due to the heavy impact that sarcopenia may have on physical and psychosocial health of diabetic patients, thus affecting their quality of life. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an update on: (1) the risk of sarcopenia in individuals with T2DM, and (2) its association with relevant features of patients with T2DM such as age, gender, body mass index, disease duration, glycemic control, presence of microvascular or macrovascular complications, nutritional status, and glucose-lowering drugs. From a clinical point of view, it is necessary to improve the ability of physicians and dietitians to recognize early sarcopenia and its risk factors in patients with T2DM in order to make appropriate therapeutic approaches able to prevent and treat this condition.
Dietary Protein Intake in Older Adults from Ethnic Minorities in the Netherlands, a Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Overdevest Elvera , Dorhout Berber , Nicolaou Mary , van Valkengoed Irene , Haveman-Nies Annemien , Oztürk Halime , de Groot Lisette , Tieland Michael , Weijs Peter
Published: January 2021

Optimizing protein intake is a novel strategy to prevent age associated loss of muscle mass and strength in older adults. Such a strategy is still missing for older adults from ethnic minority populations. Protein intake in these populations is expected to be different in comparison to the majority of the population due to several socio-cultural factors. Therefore, the present study examined the dietary protein intake and underlying behavioral and environmental factors affecting protein intake among older adults from ethnic minorities in the Netherlands. We analyzed frequency questionnaire (FFQ) data from the Healthy Life in an Urban Setting (HELIUS) cohort using ANCOVA to describe dietary protein intake in older adults from ethnic minorities in the Netherlands (N = 1415, aged >55 years, African Surinamese, South Asian Surinamese, Moroccan, and Turkish). Additionally, we performed focus groups among older adults from the same ethnic minority populations (N = 69) to discover behavioral and environmental factors affecting protein intake; 40–60% of the subjects did not reach minimal dietary protein recommendations needed to maintain muscle mass (1.0 g/kg bodyweight per day (BW/day)), except for Turkish men (where it was 91%). The major sources of protein originated from animal products and were ethnic specific. Participants in the focus groups showed little knowledge and awareness about protein and its role in aging. The amount of dietary protein and irregular eating patterns seemed to be the major concern in these populations. Optimizing protein intake in these groups requires a culturally sensitive approach, which accounts for specific protein product types and sociocultural factors.
Nutritional Status and Diet Style Affect Cognitive Function in Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Choi Ye Rin , Kim Hyeong Seop , Yoon Sang Jun , Lee Na Young , Gupta Haripriya , Raja Ganesan , Gebru Yoseph Asmelash , Youn Gi Soo , Kim Dong Joon , Ham Young Lim , Suk Ki Tae
Published: January 2021

Malnutrition and cognitive dysfunction are typical features of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and are correlated with the development of complications. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of nutritional state and diet on cognitive function in ALD. A total of 43 patients with compensated alcoholic cirrhosis were enrolled, and a neuropsychological test was assessed according to body mass index (BMI, <22 and ≥22). In the ALD animal study, mice were divided into five groups (n = 9/group; normal liquid, 5% EtOH + regular liquid, 5% EtOH + high-carbohydrate liquid, 5% EtOH + high-fat liquid, and 5% EtOH + high-protein liquid diet) and fed the same calories for eight weeks. To assess cognitive function, we performed T-maze studies weekly before/after alcohol binging. In cognitive function (BMI < 22/≥22), language score of Korea mini-mental state (7.4 ± 1.4/7.9 ± 0.4), Boston naming (11.7 ± 2.7/13.0 ± 1.8), forward digit span (6.7 ± 1.8/7.5 ± 1.6), Korean color word stroop (24.2 ± 26.5/43.6 ± 32.4), and interference score (33.9 ± 31.9/52.3 ± 33.9) revealed significant differences. In the T-maze test, alcohol significantly delayed the time to reach food, and binge drinking provided a temporary recovery in cognition. The alcohol-induced delay was significantly reduced in the high-carbohydrate and high-fat diet groups. Synaptic function exhibited no changes in all groups. Cognitive dysfunction is affected by nutritional status and diet in ALD.
State Wellness Policy Requirement Laws Matter for District Wellness Policy Comprehensiveness and Wellness Policy Implementation in the United States
Authors: Chriqui Jamie F. , Leider Julien , Turner Lindsey , Piekarz-Porter Elizabeth , Schwartz Marlene B.
Published: January 2021

Beginning with the school year 2006–2007, U.S. school districts participating in the federal Child Nutrition Programs were required to adopt and implement a local wellness policy (LWP) that included goals and/or standards for nutrition education, school meals, other foods sold or served in schools, and physical activity. A primary challenge with LWPs has been inconsistent implementation. This study examined whether state wellness policy requirement laws and district LWP comprehensiveness influence district level implementation, using law/policy data from the National Wellness Policy Study and school food authority (SFA)-reported district LWP implementation from the School Nutrition and Meal Cost Study. Generalized linear and structural equation models were used, controlling for SFA and district characteristics. SFAs in states with wellness policy requirement laws (vs. those in states without) reported implementing significantly more practices (59.56% vs. 44.57%, p < 0.01). State wellness policy requirement laws were associated with district LWP comprehensiveness (coeff.: 0.463; 95% CI: 0.123, 0.803) and district-level implementation (coeff.: 1.392; 95% CI: 0.299, 2.485). District LWP comprehensiveness was associated with district implementation (coeff.: 0.562; 95% CI: 0.072, 1.053), but did not mediate the state law–district implementation relationship. This study highlights the important role that state laws and district LWPs can play in facilitating wellness policy implementation.
Effects of Iron and Zinc Biofortified Foods on Gut Microbiota In Vivo (Gallus gallus): A Systematic Review
Authors: Juste Contin Gomes Mariana , Stampini Duarte Martino Hércia , Tako Elad
Published: January 2021

Dietary iron and zinc deficiencies are a global health concern. Bacteria that colonize the gastrointestinal tract depend on minerals to maintain their activities; thus, recent evidence suggests that biofortified foods can modulate the host’s beneficial bacterial taxa. The current review analyzed the research data that linked between iron and zinc biofortified foods and gut microbiota modulation. The data analysis was based on the PRISMA guidelines and the data search was performed at PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus databases for experimental studies published from January 2010 until December 2020. The five selected studies were conducted in an experimental in vivo model (Gallus gallus). The identified and discussed research showed positive effects of biofortified foods on the composition and function of the gut microbiota. Further, an increase in short chain fatty acids producing bacterial populations as Lactobacillus and Ruminococcus, and a decrease in potentially pathogenic bacteria as Streptococcus, Escherichia, and Enterobacter was identified due to the consumption of biofortified foods. In conclusion, biofortified foods may contribute to improved gut health without increasing the colonization of pathogenic bacteria. The dietary inclusion of approximately 50% of iron/zinc biofortified foods has a significant beneficial effect on the gut microbiota. Additional studies in humans and animal models are warranted to further establish the suggested effects on the intestinal microbiome. PROSPERO (CRD42020184221).
Association between Time Restricted Feeding and Cognitive Status in Older Italian Adults
Authors: Currenti Walter , Godos Justyna , Castellano Sabrina , Caruso Giuseppe , Ferri Raffaele , Caraci Filippo , Grosso Giuseppe , Galvano Fabio
Published: January 2021

Background: Due to the increased life expectancy, the prevalence of aging-related health conditions, such as cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is increasing. Among the modifiable risk factors, dietary factors have proved to be of primary importance in preserving and improving mental health and cognitive status in older adults, possibly through the modulation of adult neurogenesis, neuronal plasticity and brain signaling. Feeding/fasting timing manipulation has emerged as an innovative strategy to counteract and treat cognitive decline. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the timing of the feeding period and cognitive status in a cross-sectional cohort of adults living in the Mediterranean area. Methods: Demographic and dietary characteristics of 883 adults living in Southern Italy (Sicily) were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires were used to calculate the time window between the first and the last meal of an average day. Participants with an eating time window duration of more than 10 h were then identified, as well as those with eating time restricted to less than 10 h (TRF). Results: After adjusting for potential confounding factors, individuals adherent to TRF were less likely to have cognitive impairment, compared to those with no eating time restrictions [odds ratio (OR) = 0.28; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.07–0.90]; a similar association was found for individuals having breakfast (OR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16–0.89), but not for those having dinner. Conclusions: The results of this study reveal that time restricted eating may be positively associated with cognitive status, and thus exert plausible effects on brain health.
The Effect of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) on Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Adults at Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Jarrar Amjad H. , Stojanovska Lily , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Feehan Jack , Bataineh Mo’ath F. , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Al Dhaheri Ayesha S.
Published: January 2021

Gum Arabic (GA) is a widely-used additive in food processing, but is also historically used in a number of traditional therapies. It has been shown to have a broad range of health benefits, particularly in improving important cardiovascular risk indicators. Metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiac outcomes are a significant burden on modern healthcare systems, and complementary interventions to aid in its management are required. We aimed to examine the effect of GA on those with, or at risk of, metabolic syndrome to identify an effect on improving important disease parameters related to cardiovascular outcomes. A single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to identify the effects of daily GA supplementation on metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors. A total of 80 participants were randomized to receive 20 g of GA daily (n = 40) or placebo (1 g pectin, n = 40) for 12 weeks. Key endpoints included body-anthropometric indices, diet and physical activity assessment, and blood chemistry (HbA1c, fasting glucose, and blood lipids). Of the 80 enrolled, 61 completed the study (intervention: 31, control: 30) with 19 dropping out due to poor treatment compliance. After 12 weeks, the participants receiving the GA showed significant decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fat-free body mass, energy and carbohydrate consumption, and fasting plasma glucose, as well as increased intake of dietary fiber. They also reported improvements in self-perceived bloating and quality of bowel movements, as well as a decreased appetite score following GA consumption. These results suggest that GA could be a safe and beneficial adjunct to other treatments for those with, or at risk of, metabolic syndrome.
Evolution of the Human Diet and Its Impact on Gut Microbiota, Immune Responses, and Brain Health
Authors: González Olmo Brigitte M. , Butler Michael J. , Barrientos Ruth M.
Published: January 2021

The relatively rapid shift from consuming preagricultural wild foods for thousands of years, to consuming postindustrial semi-processed and ultra-processed foods endemic of the Western world less than 200 years ago did not allow for evolutionary adaptation of the commensal microbial species that inhabit the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and this has significantly impacted gut health. The human gut microbiota, the diverse and dynamic population of microbes, has been demonstrated to have extensive and important interactions with the digestive, immune, and nervous systems. Western diet-induced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been shown to negatively impact human digestive physiology, to have pathogenic effects on the immune system, and, in turn, cause exaggerated neuroinflammation. Given the tremendous amount of evidence linking neuroinflammation with neural dysfunction, it is no surprise that the Western diet has been implicated in the development of many diseases and disorders of the brain, including memory impairments, neurodegenerative disorders, and depression. In this review, we discuss each of these concepts to understand how what we eat can lead to cognitive and psychiatric diseases.
Dietary Patterns, Blood Pressure and the Glycemic and Lipidemic Profile of Two Teenage, European Populations
Authors: Kafyra Maria , Kalafati Ioanna Panagiota , Kumar Satish , Kontoe Maria Spyridoula , Masson Christine , Siest Sophie , Dedoussis George V.
Published: January 2021

The present study sought to retrospectively investigate the dietary habits of two adolescent, European populations from the cross-sectional Greek TEENAGE Study and French STANISLAS Family Study. We aimed to explore the relation between the populations’ dietary patterns and blood pressure, glycemic and lipidemic profile. Dietary patterns were extracted via Principal Component Analysis (PCA), based on data collected from two 24 h dietary recalls for the TEENAGE study and a 3-day food consumption diary for the STANISLAS study. Multiple linear regressions and mixed models analyses, adjusting for confounding factors, were employed to investigate potential associations. A total of 766 Greek teenagers and 287 French teenagers, were included in analyses. Five dietary patterns were extracted for each population accounting for 49.35% and 46.69% of their respective total variance, with similarities regarding the consumption of specific food groups (i.e., western-type foods). In the TEENAGE Study, the “chicken and sugars” pattern was associated with lower CRP levels, after adjusting for confounding factors (p-value < 0.01). The “high protein and animal fat” dietary pattern of the STANISLAS Family Study was related to higher BMI (p-value < 0.01) and higher triglycerides levels (p-value < 0.01). Our findings summarize the dietary habits of two teenage, European populations and their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors.
Orthology-Based Estimate of the Contribution of Horizontal Gene Transfer from Distantly Related Bacteria to the Intraspecific Diversity and Differentiation of Xylella fastidiosa
Authors: Firrao Giuseppe , Scortichini Marco , Pagliari Laura
Published: January 2021

Xylella fastidiosa is a xylem-limited bacterium phylogenetically related to the xanthomonads, with an unusually large and diversified range of plant hosts. To ascertain the origin of its peculiarities, its pan-genome was scanned to identify the genes that are not coherent with its phylogenetic position within the order Xanthomonadales. The results of the analysis revealed that a large fraction of the genes of the Xylella pan-genome have no ortholog or close paralog in the order Xanthomonadales. For a significant part of the genes, the closest homologue was found in bacteria belonging to distantly related taxonomic groups, most frequently in the Betaproteobacteria. Other species, such as Xanthomonas vasicola and Xanthomonas albilineans which were investigated for comparison, did not show a similar genetic contribution from distant branches of the prokaryotic tree of life. This finding indicates that the process of acquisition of DNA from the environment is still a relevant component of Xylella fastidiosa evolution. Although the ability of Xylella fastidiosa strains to recombine among themselves is well known, the results of the pan-genome analyses stressed the additional relevance of environmental DNA in shaping their genomes, with potential consequences on their phytopathological features.
High Prevalence of Three Potyviruses Infecting Cucurbits in Oklahoma and Phylogenetic Analysis of Cucurbit Aphid-Borne Yellows Virus Isolated from Pumpkins
Authors: Khanal Vivek , Wells Harrington , Ali Akhtar
Published: January 2021

Field information about viruses infecting crops is fundamental for understanding the severity of the effects they cause in plants. To determine the status of cucurbit viruses, surveys were conducted for three consecutive years (2016–2018) in different agricultural districts of Oklahoma. A total of 1331 leaf samples from >90 fields were randomly collected from both symptomatic and asymptomatic cucurbit plants across 11 counties. All samples were tested with the dot-immunobinding assay (DIBA) against the antisera of 10 known viruses. Samples infected with papaya ringspot virus (PRSV-W), watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), and cucurbit aphid-borne-yellows virus (CABYV) were also tested by RT-PCR. Of the 10 viruses, PRSV-W was the most widespread, with an overall prevalence of 59.1%, present in all 11 counties, followed by ZYMV (27.6%), in 10 counties, and WMV (20.7%), in seven counties, while the remaining viruses were present sporadically with low incidence. Approximately 42% of the infected samples were positive, with more than one virus indicating a high proportion of mixed infections. CABYV was detected for the first time in Oklahoma, and the phylogenetic analysis of the first complete genome sequence of a CABYV isolate (BL-4) from the US showed a close relationship with Asian isolates.
Engineered Phage Endolysin Eliminates Gardnerella Biofilm without Damaging Beneficial Bacteria in Bacterial Vaginosis Ex Vivo
Authors: Landlinger Christine , Tisakova Lenka , Oberbauer Vera , Schwebs Timo , Muhammad Abbas , Latka Agnieszka , Van Simaey Leen , Vaneechoutte Mario , Guschin Alexander , Resch Gregory , Swidsinski Sonja , Swidsinski Alexander , Corsini Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome and a characteristic biofilm formed on the vaginal epithelium, which is initiated and dominated by Gardnerella bacteria, and is frequently refractory to antibiotic treatment. We investigated endolysins of the type 1,4-beta-N-acetylmuramidase encoded on Gardnerella prophages as an alternative treatment. When recombinantly expressed, these proteins demonstrated strong bactericidal activity against four different Gardnerella species. By domain shuffling, we generated several engineered endolysins with 10-fold higher bactericidal activity than any wild-type enzyme. When tested against a panel of 20 Gardnerella strains, the most active endolysin, called PM-477, showed minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.13–8 µg/mL. PM-477 had no effect on beneficial lactobacilli or other species of vaginal bacteria. Furthermore, the efficacy of PM-477 was tested by fluorescence in situ hybridization on vaginal samples of fifteen patients with either first time or recurring bacterial vaginosis. In thirteen cases, PM-477 killed the Gardnerella bacteria and physically dissolved the biofilms without affecting the remaining vaginal microbiome. The high selectivity and effectiveness in eliminating Gardnerella, both in cultures of isolated strains as well as in clinically derived samples of natural polymicrobial biofilms, makes PM-477 a promising alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, especially in patients with frequent recurrence.