bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The research progress in the interaction between Candida albicans and cancers
Authors: Yu Dalang , Liu Zhiping
Published: September 2022

Candida albicansis an opportunistic pathogenic fungus, which tends to infect the host with defective immune function including cancer patients. A growing number of studies have shown thatC. albicansinfection increases the host susceptibility to cancer such as oral, gastric, and colorectal cancer. Cancer and anti-cancer treatment may also affect the colonization ofC. albicans. C. albicansmay promote the development of cancer by damaging mucosal epithelium, inducing the production of carcinogens, triggering chronic inflammation including Th17 cell-mediated immune response. In this article, we aim to elaborate the interaction betweenC. albicansand cancers development and summarize the potential molecular mechanisms, so as to provide theoretical basis for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancers.
Metagenomic insights into the antibiotic resistomes of typical Chinese dairy farm environments
Authors: Kang Jijun , Liu Yiming , Chen Xiaojie , Xu Fei , Wang Honglei , Xiong Wenguang , Li Xiubo
Published: September 2022

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment pose a threat to human and animal health. Dairy cows are important livestock in China; however, a comprehensive understanding of antibiotic resistance in their production environment has not been well clarified. In this study, we used metagenomic methods to analyze the resistomes, microbiomes, and potential ARG bacterial hosts in typical dairy farm environments (including feces, wastewater, and soil). The ARGs resistant to tetracyclines, MLS, β-lactams, aminoglycoside, and multidrug was dominant in the dairy farm ecosystem. The abundance and diversity of total ARGs in dairy feces and wastewater were significantly higher than in soil (P < 0.05). The same environmental samples from different dairy have similar resistomes and microbiomes. A high detection rate of tet(X) in wastewater and feces (100% and 71.4%, respectively), high abundance (range from 5.74 to 68.99 copies/Gb), and the finding of tet(X5) challenged the clinical application of the last antibiotics resort of tigecycline. Network analysis identified Bacteroides as the dominant genus in feces and wastewater, which harbored the greatest abundance of their respective total ARG coverage and shared ARGs. These results improved our understanding of ARG profiles and their bacterial hosts in dairy farm environments and provided a basis for further surveillance.
Improvement of native structure-based peptides as efficient inhibitors of protein-protein interactions of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and human ACE2
Authors: Odolczyk Norbert , Klim Joanna , Podsiadła-Białoskórska Małgorzata , Winiewska-Szajewska Maria , Szolajska Ewa , Zielenkiewicz Urszula , Poznański Jarosław , Zielenkiewicz Piotr
Published: September 2022

New pathogens responsible for novel human disease outbreaks in the last two decades are mainly the respiratory system viruses. Not different was the last pandemic episode, caused by infection of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). One of the extensively explored targets, in the recent scientific literature, as a possible way for rapid development of COVID-19 specific drug(s) is the interaction between the receptor-binding domain of the virus’ spike (S) glycoprotein and human receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). This protein-protein recognition process is involved in the early stages of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle leading to the host cell membrane penetration. Thus, disrupting this interaction may block or significantly reduce the infection caused by the novel pathogen. Previously we have designed (by in silico structure-based analysis) three very short peptides having sequences inspirited by hACE2 native fragments, which effectively bind to the SARS-CoV-2 S protein and block its interaction with the human receptor. In continuation of the above mentioned studies, here we presented an application of molecular modeling approach resulting in improved binding affinity of the previously proposed ligand and its enhanced ability to inhibit meaningful host-virus protein-protein interaction. The new optimized hexapeptide binds to the virus protein with affinity one magnitude higher than the initial ligand and, as a very short peptide, has also great potential for further drug development. The peptide-based strategy is rapid and cost-effective for developing and optimizing efficient protein-protein interactions disruptors and may be successfully applied to discover antiviral candidates against other future emerging human viral infections.
Random walk: Random number generation during backward and forward walking- the role of aging
Authors: Shapiro Maxim , Shaki Samuel , Gottlieb Uri , Springer Shmuel
Published: September 2022

Deficits in executive function, visuospatial abilities, and cognitive embodiment may impair gait performance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of age on random number generation (RNG) performance during forward and backward locomotion to assess cognitive flexibility and cognitive embodiment during walking. Another aim was to examine the effect of age on the associations of RNG performance during walking with stride time variability (STV), the percentage of double support (DS%), and visuospatial abilities as measured by a spatial orientation test (SOT). Twenty old (age 68.8 ± 5.3, 65% female) and 20 young (age 25.2 ± 2.2, 45% female) adults generated random numbers during backward walking (BW) and forward walking (FW) over-ground and over a treadmill with an internal focus of attention and visual-attentive distraction; six walking conditions in total. To assess cognitive flexibility, sample entropy was calculated for each RNG sequence. The average of the first 5 numbers in each RNG task was calculated to assess the relationship between small/large numbers and movement direction. STV and DS% were recorded using inertial measurement units, and spatial orientation was measured using a computerized test. The older subjects had less flexibility in generating random numbers in three of the six walking conditions. A negative correlation between RNG flexibility and STV was found in older adults during treadmill BW with visual-attentive distraction and forward over-ground walking, whereas no correlations were demonstrated in the young group. The spatial orientation score (a higher value means a worse outcome) correlated positively with RNG flexibility in the older group under all walking conditions, suggesting that older adults with better visuospatial orientation have lower cognitive flexibility, and vice versa. There was no correlation between small/large numbers and direction of motion in either group. The correlation between RNG flexibility and STV may indicate similar executive control of verbal and gait rhythmicity in old adults. Conversely, our results suggest that cognitive flexibility and visuospatial ability may decline differently.
Immunologic aspects of migraine: A review of literature
Authors: Salahi Mehrnaz , Parsa Sina , Nourmohammadi Delaram , Razmkhah Zahra , Salimi Omid , Rahmani Mohammadreza , Zivary Saeid , Askarzadeh Monireh , Tapak Mohammad Amin , Vaezi Ali , Sadeghsalehi Hamidreza , Yaghoobpoor Shirin , Mottahedi Mehran , Garousi Setareh , Deravi Niloofar
Published: September 2022

Migraine headaches are highly prevalent, affecting 15% of the population. However, despite many studies to determine this disease's mechanism and efficient management, its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. There are suggested hypotheses about the possible mediating role of mast cells, immunoglobulin E, histamine, and cytokines in this disease. A higher incidence of this disease in allergic and asthma patients, reported by several studies, indicates the possible role of brain mast cells located around the brain vessels in this disease. The mast cells are more specifically within the dura and can affect the trigeminal nerve and cervical or sphenopalatine ganglion, triggering the secretion of substances that cause migraine. Neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neurokinin-A, neurotensin (NT), pituitary adenylate-cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), and substance P (SP) trigger mast cells, and in response, they secrete pro-inflammatory and vasodilatory molecules such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a selective result of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) secretion. This stress hormone contributes to migraine or intensifies it. Blocking these pathways using immunologic agents such as CGRP antibody, anti-CGRP receptor antibody, and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)/interleukin 1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) axis-related agents may be promising as potential prophylactic migraine treatments. This review is going to summarize the immunological aspects of migraine.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and intracranial aneurysm: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Chencheng , Zhang Weiwei , Mao Lei , Zhang Guangjian , Shen Yuqi , Chang Hanxiao , Xu Xiupeng , Li Zheng , Lu Hua
Published: September 2022

Objective

To investigate the link between genetic variants associated with plasma homocysteine levels and risk of intracranial aneurysm (IA) using two-sample Mendelian randomization.

Methods

We used single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with human plasma homocysteine levels as instrumental variables for the primary analysis in a genome-wide association study of 44,147 subjects of European ancestry. Summary-level statistics were obtained for 79,429 individuals, including 7,495 IA cases and 71,934 controls. To enhance validity, five different Mendelian randomization methods (MR-Egger, weighted median, inverse variance weighted, simple mode, and weighted mode) were used for the analyses.

Results

The inverse variance weighted analysis method produced P-values of 0.398 for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage [odds ratio (OR): 1.104; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.878–1.387], 0.246 for IA (OR: 1.124; 95% CI: 0.923–1.368), and 0.644 for unruptured IA (OR: 1.126; 95% CI: 0.682–1.858). The MR-Egger analysis showed no association between IAs and homocysteine, with all P > 0.05.

Conclusion

Using gene-related instrumental variables, the Mendelian randomization analyses demonstrated a lack of an association between plasma homocysteine levels and IAs or aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
The evolution of intracranial aneurysm research from 2012 to 2021: Global productivity and publication trends
Authors: Zhang Qian , Weng Ling , Li Jian
Published: September 2022

Background

This study aimed to analyze the global research trends and map the knowledge network of intracranial aneurysm (IA) research in the last 10 years.

Methods

Publications related to IA from 2012 to 2021 were retrieved from the Web of Science core collection. Microsoft Excel 2010 and VOSviewer were used to characterize the largest contributors, including authors, journals, institutions, and countries. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were adopted to analyze the trends and knowledge network of IA.

Results

A total of 5,406 publications related to IA from 2012 to 2021 were identified, increasing from 344 in 2012 to 762 in 2021. Siddiqui, AH from the USA contributed the most publications. Papers published in the journal World Neurosurgery ranked first in quantity, while Stroke ranked first for total citations and citations per publication. The top three prolific institutions were Capital Medical University, Mayo Clinic, and the University Department of Neurology Utrecht from 2012 to 2021. Moreover, the USA held the greatest share in the field, and China was almost on par with the USA due to its rapid growth. Specifically, the most frequently covered topics over the recent decade were subarachnoid hemorrhage, endovascular treatment (EVT), clipping, vascular disorders, flow diverter, stent, delayed cerebral ischemia, inflammation, and hemodynamics.

Conclusion

The contribution made by different countries, institutions, journals, and authors for IA research over the past decade was demonstrated in the paper. The main topics include the choice of EVT or surgical clipping, particularly the application of flow diverter and associated complications, while themes such as the etiopathogenetic features of IA (e.g., inflammation and hemodynamics) deserve more attention.
Olfactory loss is a predisposing factor for depression, while olfactory enrichment is an effective treatment for depression
Authors: Leon Michael , Woo Cynthia C.
Published: September 2022

The loss of olfactory stimulation correlates well with at least 68 widely differing neurological disorders, including depression, and we raise the possibility that this relationship may be causal. That is, it seems possible that olfactory loss makes the brain vulnerable to expressing the symptoms of these neurological disorders, while daily olfactory enrichment may decrease the risk of expressing these symptoms. This situation resembles the cognitive reserve that is thought to protect people with Alzheimer’s neuropathology from expressing the functional deficit in memory through the cumulative effect of intellectual stimulation. These relationships also resemble the functional response of animal models of human neurological disorders to environmental enrichment, wherein the animals continue to have the induced neuropathology, but do not express the symptoms as they do in a standard environment with restricted sensorimotor stimulation.
Porcine bile acids promote the utilization of fat and vitamin A under low-fat diets
Authors: Yang Bowen , Huang Shimeng , Yang Ning , Cao Aizhi , Zhao Lihong , Zhang Jianyun , Zhao Guoxian , Ma Qiugang
Published: September 2022

Fat-soluble vitamin malabsorption may occur due to low dietary fat content, even in the presence of an adequate supply of fat-soluble vitamins. Bile acids (BAs) have been confirmed as emulsifiers to promote fat absorption in high-fat diets. However, there are no direct evidence of exogenous BAs promoting the utilization of fat-soluble vitamins associated with fat absorption in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we chose laying hens as model animals, as their diet usually does not contain much fat, to expand the study of BAs. BAs were investigated in vitro for emulsification, simulated intestinal digestion, and release rate of fat-soluble vitamins. Subsequently, a total of 450 healthy 45-week-old Hy-Line Gray laying hens were chosen for an 84-day feeding trial. They were divided into five treatments, feeding diets supplemented with 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg BAs, respectively. No extra fat was added to the basic diet (crude fat was 3.23%). In vitro, BAs effectively emulsified the water-oil interface. Moreover, BAs promoted the hydrolysis of fat by lipase to release more fatty acids. Although BAs increased the release rates of vitamins A, D, and E from vegetable oils, BAs improved for the digestion of vitamin A more effectively. Dietary supplementation of 60 mg/kg BAs in laying hens markedly improved the laying performance. The total number of follicles in ovaries increased in 30 and 60 mg/kg BAs groups. Both the crude fat and total energy utilization rates of BAs groups were improved. Lipase and lipoprotein lipase activities were enhanced in the small intestine in 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg BAs groups. Furthermore, we observed an increase in vitamin A content in the liver and serum of laying hens in the 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg BAs groups. The serum IgA content in the 90 and 120 mg/kg BAs groups was significantly improved. A decrease in serum malondialdehyde levels and an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity were also observed in BAs groups. The present study concluded that BAs promoted the absorption of vitamin A by promoting the absorption of fat even under low-fat diets, thereupon improving the reproduction and health of model animals.
Study on the antagonistic effects of koumiss on Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice
Authors: Yan Xinlei , Sun Yufei , Zhang Guangzhi , Han Wenying , Gao Jialu , Yu Xiuli , Jin Xindong
Published: September 2022

Toxoplasma gondii is an important food-borne zoonotic parasite, and approximately one-third of people worldwide are positive for T. gondii antibodies. To date, there are no specific drugs or vaccines against T. gondii. Therefore, developing a new safe and effective method has become a new trend in treating toxoplasmosis. Koumiss is rich in probiotics and many components that can alleviate the clinical symptoms of many diseases via the functional characteristics of koumiss and its regulation of intestinal flora. To investigate the antagonistic effect of koumiss on T. gondii infection, the model of acute and chronic T. gondii infection was established in this study. The survival rate, SHIRPA score, serum cytokine levels, brain cyst counts, β-amyloid deposition and intestinal flora changes were measured after koumiss feeding. The results showed that the clinical symptoms of mice were improved at 6 dpi and that the SHIRPA score decreased after koumiss feeding (P < 0.05). At the same time, the levels of IL-4, IFN-γ and TNF-α decreased (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference of survival rate between koumiss treatment and the other groups. Surprisingly, the results of chronic infection models showed that koumiss could significantly reduce the number of brain cysts in mice (P < 0.05), improve β-amyloid deposition in the hippocampus (P < 0.01) and decrease the levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). Moreover, koumiss could influence the gut microbiota function in resisting T. gondii infection. In conclusion, koumiss had a significant effect on chronic T. gondii infection in mice and could improve the relevant indicators of acute T. gondii infection in mice. The research provides new evidence for the development of safe and effective anti-T. gondii methods, as well as a theoretical basis and data support for the use of probiotics against T. gondii infection and broadened thoughts for the development and utilization of koumiss.
Effects of alcoholic fermentation on the non-volatile and volatile compounds in grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Mac. cv. Cocktail) juice: A combination of UPLC-MS/MS and gas chromatography ion mobility spectrometry analysis
Authors: Cao Xuedan , Ru Shuijiang , Fang Xiugui , Li Yi , Wang Tianyu , Lyu Xiamin
Published: September 2022

Grapefruit has attracted much attention as a functional fruit, of which “Cocktail” is a special variety with low acidity. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of alcoholic fermentation on the non-volatile and volatile compounds of “Cocktail” grapefruit juice. To analyze, a non-targeted metabolomics method based on UPLC-MS/MS and volatiles analysis using GC-IMS were performed. A total of 1015 phytochemicals were identified, including 296 flavonoids and 145 phenolic acids, with noticeably increasing varieties and abundance following the fermentation. Also 57 volatile compounds were detected, and alcoholic fermentation was effective in modulating aromatic profiles of grapefruit juice, with terpenes and ketones decreasing, and alcohols increasing together with esters. Citraconic acid and ethyl butanoate were the most variable non-volatile and volatile substances, respectively. The results provide a wealth of information for the study of “Cocktail” grapefruit and will serve as a valuable reference for the large-scale production of grapefruit fermented juice in the future.
Preparation of carrier-free astaxanthin nanoparticles with improved antioxidant capacity
Authors: Yu Fei , Chen Jiaxin , Wei Zizhan , Zhu Pingchuan , Qing Qing , Li Bangda , Chen Huimin , Lin Weiying , Yang Hua , Qi Zhongquan , Hong Xuehui , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: September 2022

Astaxanthin (AST), a red pigment of the carotenoids, has various advantageous biological activities. Nevertheless, the wide application of AST is restricted due to its poor water solubility and highly unsaturated structure. To overcome these limitations, carrier-free astaxanthin nanoparticles (AST-NPs) were fabricated through the anti-solvent precipitation method. The AST-NPs had a small particle size, negative zeta potential and high loading capacity. Analysis of DSC and XRD demonstrated that amorphous AST existed in AST-NPs. In comparison with free AST, AST-NPs displayed enhanced stability during storage. Besides, it also showed outstanding stability when exposed to UV light. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacity of AST-NPs was significantly increased. In vitro release study showed that AST-NPs significantly delayed the release of AST in the releasing medium. These findings indicated that AST-NPs would be an ideal formulation for AST, which could contribute to the development of novel functional foods.
The synergistic effects of short inter-pregnancy interval and micronutrients deficiency on third-trimester depression
Authors: Lin Jing , Zhou Ye , Gu Wei
Published: September 2022

Objective

To explore the effect of inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) and micronutrients on depression in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Materials and methods

A total of 5,951 eligible pregnant women were included in this single-center retrospective cohort study. Variables with potential effects on third-trimester depression were collected. These variables included: maternal factors [age, pregnancy interval, body mass index (BMI), BMI change, gravidity, native place, education, smoking, and alcohol consumption], previous delivery outcomes [preterm birth, preeclampsia, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), fetal growth restriction (FGR), and delivery mode], and micronutrients in early pregnancy (folic acid, 25-hydroxy vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, and ferritin). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to screen the factors affecting the occurrence of depression. Based on these factors, the nomogram model was established. At the same time, the interaction between IPI and micronutrients was verified.

Results

The incidence of depression in the third trimester of pregnancy was 4.3%. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that there were five independent risk factors for third-trimester depression: gravidity, previous cesarean section delivery, folic acid, and vitamin D levels in early pregnancy and IPI. According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the prediction model and nomogram were established. The prediction cut-offs of the corresponding factors were calculated according to the Youden index. Finally, the synergistic effect of short IPI and micronutrient deficiency was verified.

Conclusion

There is a synergistic effect between short IPI and micronutrient deficiency in early pregnancy, which can aggravate the occurrence of depression in late pregnancy.
Glucocorticoids in preterm human milk
Authors: Muelbert Mariana , Alexander Tanith , Vickers Mark H. , Harding Jane E. , Galante Laura , Bloomfield Frank H. ,   the DIAMOND study group
Published: September 2022

Background

Glucocorticoids (GCs), cortisol and cortisone, are essential regulators of many physiological responses, including immunity, stress and mammary gland function. GCs are present in human milk (HM), but whether maternal and infant factors are associated with HM GC concentration following preterm birth is unclear.

Materials and methods

HM samples were collected on postnatal day 5 and 10 and at 4 months’ corrected age (4m CA) in a cohort of moderate- and late-preterm infants. GCs in HM were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Relationships between GCs in HM and both maternal and infant characteristics were investigated using Spearman’s correlations and linear mixed models.

Results

170 mothers of 191 infants provided 354 HM samples. Cortisol concentrations in HM increased from postnatal day 5–4m CA (mean difference [MD] 0.6 ± 0.1 ng/ml, p < 0.001). Cortisone concentration did not change across lactation but was higher than cortisol throughout. Compared to no antenatal corticosteroid (ANS), a complete course of ANS was associated with lower GC concentrations in HM through to 4m CA (cortisol: MD –0.3 ± 0.1 ng/ml, p < 0.01; cortisone MD –1.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml, p < 0.001). At 4m CA, higher maternal perceived stress was negatively associated with GC concentrations in HM (cortisol adjusted beta-coefficient [aβ] –0.01 ± 0.01 ng/ml, p = 0.05; and cortisone aβ –0.1 ± 0.03 ng/ml, p = 0.01), whereas higher postpartum depression and maternal obesity were associated with lower cortisone concentrations (aβ –0.1 ± 0.04 ng/ml p < 0.05; MD [healthy versus obese] –0.1 ± 0.04 ng/ml p < 0.05, respectively). There was a weak positive correlation between GC concentrations in HM and gestational age at birth (r = 0.1, p < 0.05). Infant birth head circumference z-score was negatively associated with cortisol concentrations (aβ –0.01 ± 0.04 ng/ml, p < 0.05). At hospital discharge, fat-free mass showed a weak positive correlation with cortisol concentrations (r = 0.2, p = 0.03), while fat mass showed a weak negative correlation with cortisone concentrations (r = –0.25, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The mammary gland appears to protect the infant from cortisol through inactivation into cortisone. Maternal and infant characteristics were associated with concentration of GCs in HM, including ANS, stress and depression scores, obesity, gestational age and infant size. The effects of HM glucocorticoids on long-term health outcomes requires further research.
The anti-anxiety/depression effect of a combined complex of casein hydrolysate and γ-aminobutyric acid on C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Cai Lei , Tao Qian , Li Wenzhi , Zhu Xiping , Cui Chun
Published: September 2022

In view of a series of adverse side effects of drugs for anxiety/depression on the market at present, it is imminent to extract and develop novel anti-anxiety and depression drugs from plants and proteins (like casein hydrolysate) as adjuncts or substitutes for existing anti-anxiety and depression drugs. Consequently, this study investigated the improvement of the anxiety/depression function by the compound of casein hydrolysate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) (casein hydrolysate: GABA = 4:1; CCHAA) on mice induced by chronic restraint stress-corticosterone injection. Animal experiments revealed that oral gavage administration of CCHAA significantly reversed the anxiety/depression-like behaviors. Compared to the model control group, body weights were increased after treatment with CCHAA groups [1.5, 0.75 mg/(g⋅d)]. As a diagnostic index of anxiety and depression, we assessed GABA and 5-HT levels in response to CCHAA ingestion. The GABA and 5-HT levels were increasingly enhanced by the CCHAA diet. In addition, histopathological changes in the hippocampus CA3 region of the anxious/depressed mice were also alleviated after the treatment with the CCHAA. Thus, the casein hydrolysate and GABA formula diets may induce beneficial effects on the mice with anxiety/depression.
Neighborhood effects on dietary behaviors—evidence from older adults in China
Authors: Liu Chang , Yu Hao
Published: September 2022

Individual neighborhood environment is an important predictor of dietary behavior. Using data from four waves of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS, 2004–2011), this study applied a panel data approach to examine the effects of neighborhood diet quality on the eating behaviors of older adults living in the same community. Results of the fixed effects estimation indicated a significant neighborhood effect within the community, and neighborhoods with high-quality diets had a significantly positive effect on the eating behavior of the elderly. The neighborhood effects on elderly eating behaviors were manifested in improved dietary structure, including decreased consumption of cereals and increased consumption of vegetables and fruits, as well as meat, eggs, and dairy products. In terms of nutrient intake, there was a significant increase in protein intake, and hence, a greater percentage of calories from protein. The estimation results were robust when different estimation methods or diet quality measures were used. Future policies for improving diet quality should consider neighborhood-level conditions, especially in rural areas where residents are closely connected and socially interact with one another.
Inulin accelerates weight loss in obese mice by regulating gut microbiota and serum metabolites
Authors: Wu Zeang , Du Zhenzhu , Tian Yuanyuan , Liu Miao , Zhu Kailong , Zhao Yufan , Wang Haixia
Published: September 2022

Several studies indicated that the gut microbiota might participate in the beneficial effect of inulin on obesity. However, the mechanisms involved were still largely unknown. Sixteen high-fat diets (HFDs)-induced obese C57BL/6 mice were converted to a normal diet and then randomized into two groups, OND (obese mice + normal diet) group gavage-fed for 10 weeks with normal saline and ONDI (obese mice + normal diet + inulin) group with inulin at 10 g/kg/day. The body weight of HFD-induced obese mice showed different degrees of decrease in both groups. However, the ONDI group lost more weight and returned to normal earlier. Compared to the OND group, inulin supplementation significantly shifted the composition and structure of gut microbiota, such as higher α diversity. The β diversity analysis also confirmed the changes in gut microbiota composition between groups. At the genus level, the abundance of Alistipes was considerably increased, and it was significantly correlated with inulin supplementation (r = 0.72, P = 0.002). Serum metabolite levels were distinctly altered after inulin supplementation, and 143 metabolites were significantly altered in the ONDI group. Among them, indole-3-acrylic acid level increased more than 500-fold compared to the OND group. It was also strongly positive correlation with Alistipes (r = 0.72, P = 0.002) and inulin supplementation (r = 0.99, P = 9.2e−13) and negatively correlated with obesity (r = −0.72, P = 0.002). In conclusion, inulin supplementation could accelerate body weight loss in obese mice by increasing Alistipes and indole-3-acrylic acid level.
Limosilactobacillus reuteri FN041 prevents atopic dermatitis in pup mice by remodeling the ileal microbiota and regulating gene expression in Peyer’s patches after vertical transmission
Authors: Zhou Jingbo , Xu Gaoshun , Li Xinyue , Tu Huayu , Li Haoyu , Chang Hong , Chen Jie , Yu Renqiang , Qi Ce , Sun Jin
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Limosilactobacillus reuteri FN041 is a potential probiotic bacterium isolated from breast milk in traditional farming and pastoral areas of China. The purpose of this study was to investigate the optimal intervention mode and potential mechanism of FN041 to prevent atopic dermatitis (AD) in mice.

Methods

In intervention mode I, FN041 was supplemented to dams during the late trimester and lactation and pups after weaning; in intervention mode II, FN041 was supplemented after pups were weaned. AD was induced in pups with MC903 plus ovalbumin on the ear after weaning.

Results

The effect of intervention mode I in preventing AD was significantly better than that of intervention mode II. Compared with the model group, the inflammatory response of the pup’s ears, the proportion of spleen regulatory T cells and the plasma IgE were significantly decreased in mice in intervention mode I. Furthermore, the intestinal mucosal barrier was enhanced, and the Shannon index of the ileal microbiota was significantly increased. The microbiota structure deviated from the AD controls and shifted toward the healthy controls according to the PCoA of unweighted UniFrac. The relative abundances of Limosilactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia in the ileum were significantly increased compared to the AD group. Based on RNA-seq analysis of pups’ Peyer’s patches (PPs), FN041 inhibits autoimmune pathways such as asthma and systemic lupus erythematosus and activates retinol metabolism and PPAR signaling pathways to reduce inflammatory responses. Intervention mode II also significantly reduced AD severity score, but the reduction was approximately 67% of that of intervention mode I. This may be related to its ineffective remodeling of the ileal microbiota.

Conclusion

Prenatal and postnatal administration of FN041 is an effective way to prevent AD in offspring, and its mechanism is related to remodeling of ileal microbiota and PPs immune response.
Performance and discriminatory capacity of Nutri-Score in branded foods in Greece
Authors: Vlassopoulos Antonis , Katidi Alexandra , Kapsokefalou Maria
Published: September 2022

Background

The harmonization of front-of-pack nutritional declaration is in the heart of food and nutrition policy discussions in Europe. The Nutri-Score system has been proposed by many countries as a potential candidate but its suitability for use across Europe is still under consideration. The current study aimed to evaluate the performance and discriminatory capacity of Nutri-Score in Greece and to test its alignment with the national food-based dietary guidelines.

Materials and methods

Data on the energy, saturated fat, total sugars, sodium, protein, and fiber content per 100°g or ml were extracted for all foods available (n = 4,002) in the Greek branded food composition database HelTH. Each food content in fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts and oils was manually estimated from the ingredients list. The Nutri-Score algorithm was used both as a continuous (FSAm-NPS Score) and a categorical variable [Grades (A)–(E)].

Results

The average FSAm-NPS Score in Greece was 8.52 ± 9.4. More than half of the solid foods (53.8%) were graded from (A) to (C), while most beverages (59.2%) were graded (E). More than 50% of food categories were populated with foods in all Nutri-Score grades, indicative of a good discriminatory capacity. The system scores favorably vegetables, pulses, and low-fat dairy products and unfavourablly sweets and processed meats showing in this way good alignment with the national guidelines. Eggs and seafood scored preferably compared to meat products. Animal fats received less favorable scores and so did cereal products that were highly processed.

Discussion

Nutri-Score showed good capacity to inform consumers toward better food choices in line with the national guidelines. It showed a potential to guide consumers and manufacturers toward less energy dense and more nutrient dense options and highlighted areas of improvement in the food supply.
Inter-reader agreement of the prostate imaging reporting and data system version v2.1 for detection of prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wen Jing , Ji Yugang , Han Jing , Shen Xiaocui , Qiu Yi
Published: September 2022

Objectives

We aimed to systematically assess the inter-reader agreement of the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System Version (PI-RADS) v2.1 for the detection of prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

We included studies reporting inter-reader agreement of different radiologists that applied PI-RADS v2.1 for the detection of PCa. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed with the Guidelines for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies. The summary estimates of the inter-reader agreement were pooled with the random-effect model and categorized (from slight to almost perfect) according to the kappa (κ) value. Multiple subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to explore various clinical settings.

Results

A total of 12 studies comprising 2475 patients were included. The pooled inter-reader agreement for whole gland was κ=0.65 (95% CI 0.56-0.73), and for transitional zone (TZ) lesions was κ=0.62 (95% CI 0.51-0.72). There was substantial heterogeneity presented throughout the studies (I2= 95.6%), and meta-regression analyses revealed that only readers’ experience (<5 years vs. ≥5 years) was the significant factor associated with heterogeneity (P<0.01). In studies providing head-to-head comparison, there was no significant difference in inter-reader agreement between PI-RADS v2.1 and v2.0 for both the whole gland (0.64 vs. 0.57, p=0.37), and TZ (0.61 vs. 0.59, p=0.81).

Conclusions

PI-RADS v2.1 demonstrated substantial inter-reader agreement among radiologists for whole gland and TZ lesions. However, the difference in agreement between PI-RADS v2.0 and v2.1 was not significant for the whole gland or the TZ.
Prediction of early recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy by contrast-enhanced ultrasound-based deep learning radiomics
Authors: Zhang Hui , Huo Fanding
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the predictive model based on deep learning (DL) and radiomics features from contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to predict early recurrence (ER) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

One hundred seventy-two patients with HCC who underwent hepatectomy and followed up for at least 1 year were included in this retrospective study. The data were divided according to the 7:3 ratios of training and test data. The ResNet-50 architecture, CEUS-based radiomics, and the combined model were used to predict the early recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve were drawn to evaluate its diagnostic efficiency.

Results

The CEUS-based radiomics ROCs of the “training set” and “test set” were 0.774 and 0.763, respectively. The DL model showed increased prognostic value, the ROCs of the “training set” and “test set” were 0.885 and 0.834, respectively. The combined model ROCs of the “training set” and “test set” were 0.943 and 0.882, respectively.

Conclusion

The deep learning radiomics model integrating DL and radiomics features from CEUS was used to predict ER and achieve satisfactory performance. Its diagnostic efficiency is significantly better than that of the single model.
Efficacious interventions for improving the transition readiness of adolescents and young adult patients with chronic illness: A narrative review of randomized control trials assessed with the transition readiness assessment questionnaire
Authors: Takeuchi Jiro , Yanagimoto Yoshitoki , Sato Yuki , Ochiai Ryota , Moriichi Akinori , Ishizaki Yuko , Nakayama Takeo
Published: September 2022

Objective

We inspected efficacious interventions to improve the transition readiness of adolescent and young adult patients with childhood-onset chronic illnesses using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ).

Methods

Our narrative review was conducted on randomized control studies assessed with TRAQ for outcome measurement before and after the interventions. We included all patients with chronic diseases. We searched eight electronic database(s): Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED) Allied and Complementary Medicine, BioSciences Information Service of Biological Abstracts (BIOSIS) Previews, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), the Cochrane Library, Embase, Ichu-shi, Medline, and Web of Science. The text words for the search of data sources were as follows: “(“transition readiness assessment questionnaire” OR TRAQ) AND 2011/01:2022/06[DP] AND (clinical AND trial OR clinical trials OR clinical trial OR random* OR random allocation).” More studies were identified from the references in our reported study. This data set was independently cross-checked by two reviewers.

Results

We identified 261 reports and collected three articles. The target diseases were type-1 diabetes, congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. All the studies excluded patients with intellectual disabilities. The age of the participants was distributed between 12 and 20 years. Nurse-provided web-based intervention of transition readiness was constructed using digital resources in two studies. The intervention ranged from 6 to 18 months. All the interventions were efficacious in improving transition readiness assessed with TRAQ scores, except for the self-advocacy score.

Conclusions

We obtained three randomized control studies with TRAQ for outcome measurement. In two studies, web-based and nurse-led organized interventions were shown to improve transition readiness.
(−)-Epicatechin Ameliorates Monosodium Urate-Induced Acute Gouty Arthritis Through Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome and the NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wu Chenxi , Li Fenfen , Zhang Xiaoxi , Xu Wenjing , Wang Yan , Yao Yanjing , Han Ziwei , Xia Daozong
Published: September 2022

Background: Gouty arthritis is a common and complex inflammatory disease that will reduce the life quality of human beings (−)-Epicatechin (EC) is famous for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of EC on gouty arthritis and its mechanisms.

Methods and results: EC was added into a monosodium urate (MSU)-stimulated THP-1 cell that was induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in advance to establish a gout model in vitro. The efficiency of EC on acute gouty arthritis mice induced by MSU was further investigated. The results showed that EC concentration-dependently improved the cell viability of LPS and MSU stimulated THP-1 cells, and significantly alleviated MSU-induced ankle edema in mice in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, EC inhibited the infiltration of inflammatory cells and local cascular congestion in ankle joint tissue. Furthermore, the secretion of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6, and TNF-α) activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway were markedly suppressed by EC in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion: These results indicated that EC could effectively improve MSU-induced acute gouty arthritis via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and the NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo, which suggested that EC might be a promising active ingredient for the prevention and treatment of gouty arthritis.
A nano-preparation approach to enable the delivery of daphnoretin to potentiate the therapeutical efficacy in hepatocellular cancer
Authors: Zhu Guanglin , Wang Bing , Feng Guo , Zhou Zhirong , Li Wei , Liu Wen , Su Hongmei , Wang Wenjing , Wang Tiejie , Yu Xie-an
Published: September 2022

Daphnoretin (DAP), isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine Wikstroemia indica (Linn. C. A. Meyer), could induce apoptosis of hepatocellular cancer (HCC) and inhibit tumor growth. However, the application of DAP in cancer therapies was hampered because to its poor solubility. Herein, this study aimed to design an approach of double-targeted nano-preparation to enable the delivery of DAP to potentiate the therapeutical efficacy in liver cancer via glycyrrhetinic acid-polyethylene glycol-block-poly (D,L-lactic acid)/polyethylene glycol-block-poly (D,L-lactic acid)-DAP (GPP/PP-DAP). In particular, the purity of separated DAP was up to 98.12% for preparation research. GPP/PP-DAP was successfully prepared by the thin-film hydration method. Subsequently, the GPP/PP-DAP was optimized by univariate analysis and the response surface methodology, producing a stable and systemically injectable nano-preparation. Impressively, on the one hand, cytotoxicity studies showed that the IC50 of the GPP/PP-DAP was lower than that of free DAP. On the other hand, the GPP/PP-DAP was more likely to be endocytosed by HepG2 cells and targeted to the liver with orthotopic tumors, potentiating the therapeutical efficacy in HCC. Collectively, both in vitro and in vivo results indicated the excellent tumor inhibition and liver targeting of GPP/PP-DAP, suggesting the nano-preparation could serve as a potential drug delivery system for natural ingredients with anti-hepatoma activity to lay the theoretical foundation for clinical application.
The efficacy and adverse events of delafloxacin in the treatment of acute bacterial infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: He Rong , Lin Fei , Yu Bin , Qiu Jingyue , Zheng Lingli
Published: September 2022

Background: This study aims to assess the clinical efficacy and adverse events of delafloxacin for the treatment of acute bacterial infections in adult patients through meta-analysis.

Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Clinical trails databases were searched up to 26 March 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated delafloxacin and comparator antibiotics for treating acute bacterial infections in adult patients were included. The clinical cure rate and microbiological eradication rate at the posttreatment evaluation, while the secondary outcomes included the risk of adverse events (AEs).

Results: In total, six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 3,019 patients with acute bacterial infection were included. There were no significant differences in the clinical cure rate between delafloxacin and comparators (OR = 1.06%, 95% CI = 0.89–1.26, I2 = 0%). Overall, the results showed that delafloxacin had a microbiological eradication rate (documented and presumed) similar to the comparators (OR = 1.33%, 95% CI = 0.94–1.88, I2 = 0%) in the pooled analysis of the six studies. Any treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) did not show significant differences between delafloxacin and the comparators (OR = 0.93%, 95% CI = 0.80–1.08, I2 = 75%). Serious adverse events (SAEs) did not differ between the delafloxacin and comparators (OR = 0.94%, 95% CI = 0.67–1.32, I2 = 0%). The results of gastrointestinal disorders were (OR = 1.26%, 95% CI = 1.01–1.56, I2 = 89%), and nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea were (OR = 0.77%, 95% CI = 0.45–1.34, I2 = 79%), (OR = 1.00%, 95% CI = 0.74–1.36, I2 = 72%), and (OR = 2.10%, 95% CI = 1.70–2.96, I2 = 0%), respectively. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the incidence of nausea and vomiting between delafloxacin and the comparator, but the incidence of diarrhea was higher. The analysis of neurological disorders indicated that the incidence of nervous system disorders was lower in the delafloxacin group (OR = 0.71%, 95% CI = 0.50–1.01, I2 = 52%).

Conclusion: The clinical efficacy, microbiological eradication rate and the incidence of AEs of delafloxacin in the treatment of acute bacterial infections were similar to those of the comparators, as an alternative therapeutic agent.
Finite element analysis for thermal enhancement in power law hybrid nanofluid
Authors: Nazir Umar , Sohail Muhammad , Singh Abha , Muhsen Sami , Galal Ahmed M. , Tag El Din El Sayed M. , Hussain Syed M.
Published: September 2022

Ethylene glycol with nanoparticles behaves as a non-Newtonian fluid and its rheology can be best predicted by the power-law rheological approach. Further nanoparticles (molybdenum disulfide and silicon dioxide) are responsible for anti-oxidation, anti-evaporation, and anti-aging. Therefore, their dispersion in ethylene glycol is considered as these properties make the nanofluid stable. This article examines the impact of molybdenum disulfide and silicon dioxide on the thermal enhancement of ethylene glycol as it is a worldwide used coolant. Moreover, simultaneous effects of temperature and concentration gradients, Joule heating, viscous dissipation, thermal radiations, and buoyancy forces are modeled and developed, and investigations are computed by the finite element method. An increase in temperature due to the composition gradient and an increase in concentration due to the temperature gradient are observed. A significant increase in the Ohmic phenomenon with an increase in the intensity of the magnetic field is observed. Numerical experiments are performed by considering single-type nanoparticles (MoS2) and hybrid-type nanoparticles (simultaneous dispersion of SiO2 andMoS2is considered). During the visualization of simulations, the effective thermal conductivity of MoS2-SiO2-ethylene glycol is observed.