bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Metabolic Factors in Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis C Who Received Oral Antiviral Treatment
Authors: Gavril Oana Irina , Gavril Radu Sebastian , Mitu Florin , Gavrilescu Otilia , Popa Iolanda Valentina , Tatarciuc Diana , Drugescu Andrei , Oprescu Andrei Catalin , Gherasim Andreea , Mihalache Laura , Esanu Irina Mihaela
Published: April 2023

Hepatic diseases pose a significant public health concern. Regardless of the severity of hepatic fibrosis, treatment is recommended for all chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) subjects. However, fibrosis and steatosis assessment remains crucial for evaluating the prognosis, progression, and hepatic disease monitoring, particularly following the treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of metabolic factors and the extent of hepatic fibrosis and fat accumulation in chronic HCV infection subjects. Additionally, another objective was to investigate modifications regarding fibrosis and steatosis three months after a successful sustained viral response (SVR). A total of 100 patients with compensated cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis C (CHC) were included in our study. These patients received treatment with DAA and underwent Fibromax assessment before and three months post SVR. After DAA treatment, a significant decrease was observed in the degree of hepatic fibrosis and hepatic steatosis. This regression was evident three months following the achievement of SVR. Chronic viral hepatitis C may trigger risk factors for metabolic syndromes, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusions: It is crucial to monitor metabolic factors and take timely measures to prevent or treat metabolic syndrome in patients with chronic viral hepatitis C.
Hepatic Insulin Resistance Model in the Male Wistar Rat Using Exogenous Insulin Glargine Administration
Authors: Sarmiento-Ortega Victor Enrique , Moroni-González Diana , Diaz Alfonso , García-González Miguel Ángel , Brambila Eduardo , Treviño Samuel
Published: April 2023

Metabolic diseases are a worldwide health problem. Insulin resistance (IR) is their distinctive hallmark. For their study, animal models that provide reliable information are necessary, permitting the analysis of the cluster of abnormalities that conform to it, its progression, and time-dependent molecular modifications. We aimed to develop an IR model by exogenous insulin administration. The effective dose of insulin glargine to generate hyperinsulinemia but without hypoglycemia was established. Then, two groups (control and insulin) of male Wistar rats of 100 g weight were formed. The selected dose (4 U/kg) was administered for 15, 30, 45, and 60 days. Zoometry, a glucose tolerance test, insulin response, IR, and the serum lipid profile were assessed. We evaluated insulin signaling, glycogenesis and lipogenesis, redox balance, and inflammation in the liver. Results showed an impairment of glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, and peripheral and time-dependent selective IR. At the hepatic level, insulin signaling was impaired, resulting in reduced hepatic glycogen levels and triglyceride accumulation, an increase in the ROS level with MAPK-ERK1/2 response, and mild pro-oxidative microenvironmental sustained by MT, GSH, and GR activity. Hepatic IR coincides with additions in MAPK-p38, NF-κB, and zoometric changes. In conclusion, daily insulin glargine administration generated a progressive IR model. At the hepatic level, the IR was combined with oxidative conditions but without inflammation.
Heterogeneous Electrocatalysis of Carbon Dioxide to Methane
Authors: Wu Yugang , Du Huitong , Li Peiwen , Zhang Xiangyang , Yin Yanbo , Zhu Wenlei
Published: April 2023

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to valued products is a promising way to mitigate the greenhouse effect, as this reaction makes use of the excess CO2 in the atmosphere and at the same time forms valued fuels to partially fulfill the energy demand for human beings. Among these valued products, methane is considered a high-value product with a high energy density. This review systematically summarizes the recently studied reaction mechanisms for CO2 electroreduction to CH4. It guides us in designing effective electrocatalysts with an improved electrocatalytic performance. In addition, we briefly summarize the recent progress on CO2 electroreduction into CH4 from the instructive catalyst design, including catalyst structure engineering and catalyst component engineering, and then briefly discuss the electrolyte effect. Furthermore, we also provide a simplified techno-economic analysis of this technology. These summaries are helpful for beginners to rapidly master the contents related to the electroreduction of carbon dioxide to methane and also help to promote the further development of this field.
Design of a Compact Analog Complex Correlator for Millimeter-Wave Radiation Temperature Measurement System
Authors: He Wangdong , Hu Anyong , Dong Chen , Chen Xi , Gong Jianhao , Miao Jungang
Published: April 2023

Human body temperature is a fundamental physiological sign that reflects the state of physical health. It is important to achieve high-accuracy detection for non-contact human body temperature measurement. In this article, a Ka band (32 to 36 GHz) analog complex correlator using the integrated six-port chip is proposed, and a millimeter-wave thermometer system based on the designed correlator is completed for human body temperature measurement. The designed correlator utilizes the six-port technique to achieve large bandwidth and high sensitivity, and miniaturization of the correlator is achieved through an integrated six-port chip. By performing the single-frequency test and the broadband noise measurement on the correlator, we can determine that the dynamic range of input power of the correlator is −70 dBm to −35 dBm, and the correlation efficiency and equivalent bandwidth are 92.5% and 3.42 GHz, respectively. Moreover, the output of the correlator varies linearly with the input noise power, which reveals that the designed correlator is suitable for the field of human body temperature measurement. Then, a handheld thermometer system, with a size of 140 mm × 47 mm × 20 mm, is proposed using the designed correlator, and the measurement results show that the temperature sensitivity of the thermometer is less than 0.2 K.
Study of a Fluorescent System Based on the Naphthalene Derivative Fluorescent Probe Bound to Al3+
Authors: Li Qiuping , Ma Lei , Li Jianyan , Wang Lijuan , Yu Liansheng , Zhao Yuehui , Lv Yuguang
Published: April 2023

The naphthalene derivative fluorescent probe F6 was synthesized and a 1 × 10−3 mol/L solution of Al3+ and other metals to be tested was prepared for the subsequent experiments. The Al3+ fluorescence system of the naphthalene derivative fluorescent probe F6 was successfully constructed as demonstrated by fluorescence emission spectroscopy. The optimal time, temperature and pH of the reaction were investigated. The selectivity and anti-interference ability of the probe F6 for Al3+ were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy in a methanol solution. The experiments showed that the probe has high selectivity and anti-interference ability for Al3+. The binding ratio of F6 to Al3+ was 2:1, and the binding constant was calculated to be 1.598 × 105 M−1. The possible mechanism of the binding of the two was speculated. Different concentrations of Al3+ were added to Panax Quinquefolium and Paeoniae Radix Alba. The results showed that the recoveries of Al3+ were 99.75–100.56% and 98.67–99.67%, respectively. The detection limit was 8.73 × 10−8 mol/L. The experiments demonstrated that the formed fluorescence system can be successfully adapted for the determination of Al3+ content in two Chinese herbal medicines, which has good practical application.
Efficient Photodegradation of Rhodamine B by Fiber-like Nitrogen-Doped TiO2/Ni(OH)2 Nanocomposite under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Wang Huan , Dong Mingxuan , Shao Baorui , Chi Yaodan , Wang Chao , Lv Sa , Duan Ran , Wu Boqi , Yang Xiaotian
Published: April 2023

N-TiO2/Ni(OH)2 nanofiber was successfully prepared by combining the electrospinning and solvothermal method. It has been found that under visible light irradiation, the as-obtained nanofiber exhibits excellent activity for the photodegradation of rhodamine B, and the average degradation rate reaches 3.1%/min−1. Further insight investigations reveal that such a high activity was mainly due to the heterostructure-induced increase in the charge transfer rate and separation efficiency.
Machine Learning-Augmented Micro-Defect Detection on Plastic Straw
Authors: Zhang Zhisheng , Meng Peng , Yang Yaxin , Zhu Jianxiong
Published: April 2023

Plastic straws are well-known tools to assist human beings in drinking fluid, but most of them have micro-defects including black spot defects, head problems, pressure tube defects, and sealing wrinkles. The manual detection of these defects has drawbacks such as low efficiency, a high false detection rate, and excessive labor. This paper proposed machine vision-based detection with self-adaption and high-accuracy characteristics. A serial synthesis of algorithms including homomorphic filtering, Nobuyuki Otsu, and morphological opening operations is proposed to obtain plastic straws with binary images with good performance, and it was further found that the convolutional neural network can be designed to realize the real-time recognition of black spot defects, where the corner detection algorithm demonstrates the linear fitting of the edge point of the straw with the effective detection of sealing wrinkle defects. We also demonstrated that the multi-threshold classification algorithm is used to detect defects effectively for head problems and pressure tube defects. The detection system based on machine vision successfully overcomes shortcomings of manual inspection, which has high inspection efficiency and adaptively detects multiple defects with 96.85% accuracy. This research can effectively help straw companies achieve high-quality automated production and promotes the application of machine vision in plastic straw defects with the aid of machine learning.
Impacts of Rock Mineral and Traditional Phosphate Fertilizers on Mycorrhizal Communities in Pasture Plants
Authors: Alsharmani Ahmed R. , Solaiman Zakaria M. , Leopold Matthias , Abbott Lynette K. , Mickan Bede S.
Published: April 2023

Intensive fertilizer use can constrain contributions from soil biological processes in pastures, including those associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. We evaluated the effect of fertilizers of different P solubility on the colonization of the roots of two common pasture plants by a community of AM fungi in a pasture soil. The treatments were a rock mineral fertilizer, a chemical fertilizer and a microbial inoculant. Subterranean clover and annual ryegrass were grown in pots for 10 weeks. Both fertilizers reduced the proportion and length of roots colonized by naturally occurring AM fungi. However, by 10 weeks, there was a much greater length of mycorrhizal root for annual ryegrass than for subterranean clover. The relative abundance of mycorrhizal fungi in the families Glomeraceae and Acaulosporaceae in roots was not affected by the form of fertilizer, but diversity indices of AM fungi in roots were altered. The chemical fertilizer had a greater negative effect on AM fungal diversity indices in the annual ryegrass roots compared with the subterranean clover roots. The reduction in OTU richness of AM fungi with fertilizer application corresponded with reduced soil pH. Differential effects of P fertilizers on naturally occurring AM fungi in this agricultural soil have the potential to influence the efficacy of P fertilizer use and dominance of plant species in grasslands.
Comparative Evaluation of the Activity of Various Lentiviral Vectors Containing Three Anti-HIV Genes
Authors: Orlova Olga Vladimirovna , Glazkova Dina Viktorovna , Mintaev Ramil Rafailovich , Tsyganova Galina Mikhailovna , Urusov Felix Anatolevich , Shipulin German Alexandrovich , Bogoslovskaya Elena Vladimirovna
Published: April 2023

A promising direction in the treatment of HIV infection is a gene therapy approach based on the insertion of antiviral genes aimed at inhibiting HIV replication into the genome of host cells. We obtained six constructs of lentiviral vectors with different arrangements of three antiviral genes: microRNAs against the CCR5 gene, the gene encoding the C-peptide, and the gene encoding the modified human TRIM5a protein. We found that despite containing the same genes, these vectors were produced at different titers and had different effects on cell viability, transduction efficiency, and expression stability. Comparative evaluation of the antiviral activity of three of the six developed vectors that showed stable expression was carried out using the continuous SupT1 lymphocytic cell line. All of the vectors protected cells from HIV infection: the viral load was several orders of magnitude lower than in control cells, and with one vector, complete cessation of virus growth in modified cells was achieved.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection: Control and Treatment
Authors: Salina Elena G.
Published: April 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is the second leading infectious killer after COVID-19, causing 10 million new cases and claiming the lives of more than 1 [...]
Late Devonian A-Type Granites from the Beishan, Southern Central Asia Orogenic Belt: Implications for Closure of the Paleo-Asia Ocean
Authors: Wang Erteng , Zhai Xinwei , Chen Wanfeng , Wu Lei , Song Gaorui , Wang Yun , Guo Zhiang , Zhao Jiaolong , Wang Jinrong
Published: April 2023

The closing time of the Paleo-Asian Ocean (PAO) has long been in the focus of research as well as of controversial debates. The Paleozoic A-type granites distributed in the Beishan Orogenic Belt (BOB) at the southern margin of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) provide pivotal clues to constrain the closure of the PAO. In this paper, the newly recognized Duhongshan A-type granites from the middle Huaniushan arc in the BOB (zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb ages of ca. 376–374 Ma) are thoroughly studied. The rocks have high SiO2, K2O contents with peralkaline character, and display high Zr + Nb + Ce + Y contents (354–543 ppm), 10,000 × Ga/Al (4.1–4.9), Y/Nb (3.2–5.3), Rb/Nb ratios (8.5–14.1), and a zircon saturation temperature in the range of 877–950 °C, indicative of A2-type granites affinities. The Duhongshan granites display enriched in Th and U; depleted in Ba, Sr, and Ti; with slightly positive whole-rock εNd(t) values (+1.86 to +2.21), indicating an origin related to partial melting of lower crustal material in post-collision extension settings. Combined with previous reported results, we conclude that the granitoids in the middle Huaniushan arc were mostly formed around 424–367 Ma and can be divided into two types based on petrochemistry: (a) A-type granites, which generally have high SiO2 and K2O, derived from the relatively shallow crustal source in post-collision tectonic settings; and (b) adakite and I-type granites, which display high Sr/Y ratios as well as Nb, Ta, and Ti depletion, likely generated from the melting of juvenile crust in active continental margin arcs. Integrating the previous regional investigations, we propose that the Hongliuhe–Niujuanzi–Xichangjing Ocean (HNXO) of the PAO was closed and transformed in the post-collision extensional tectonic stage during the Late Devonian and formed as post-collision magmatism, while the arc magmatism may be related to the subduction of the Liuyuan Ocean, which is located in the Southern HNXO.
Synthesis of Carboxyl Modified Polyether Polysiloxane Surfactant for the Biodegradable Foam Fire Extinguishing Agents
Authors: Jiao Jinqing , Qi Lei , Wu Jingfeng , Lang Xuqing , Wei Yuechang , Zhang Guangwen , Cui Pengyu , Shang Zuzheng , Mu Xiaodong , Mu Shanjun , Lv Yuzhuo , Pan Weichao
Published: April 2023

It is necessary to develop novel and efficient alternatives to fluorocarbon surfactant and prepare fluorine-free environmentally-friendly fire extinguishing agent. The carboxyl modified polyether polysiloxane surfactant (CMPS) with high surface activity was synthesized via the esterification reaction using hydroxyl-containing polyether modified polysiloxane (HPMS) and maleic anhydride (MA) as raw materials. The process conditions of the esterification reaction were optimized by orthogonal tests, and the optimum process parameters were determined as follows: reaction temperature of 85 °C, reaction time of 4.5 h, isopropyl alcohol content of 20% and the molar ratio of HPMS/MA of 1/1. The chemical structure, surface activity, aggregation behavior, foam properties, wetting properties and electron distribution were systematically investigated. It was found that the carboxyl group was successfully grafted into silicone molecule, and the conjugated system was formed, which changed the interaction force between the molecules and would affect the surface activity of the aqueous solution. The CMPS exhibited excellent surface activity and could effectively reduce the water’s surface tension to 18.46 mN/m. The CMPS formed spherical aggregates in aqueous solution, and the contact angle value of CMPS is 15.56°, illustrating that CMPS had excellent hydrophilicity and wetting performance. The CMPS can enhance the foam property and has good stability. The electron distribution results indicate that the introduced carboxyl groups are more inclined towards the negative charge band, which would be conducive to weak the interaction between molecules and improve the surface activity of the solution. Consequently, new foam fire extinguishing agents were prepared by using CMPS as a key component and they exhibited excellent fire-fighting performance. The prepared CMPS would be the optimal alternative to fluorocarbon surfactant and could be applied in foam extinguishing agents.
Optimization of Extraction Method of Anthocyanins from Red Cabbage
Authors: Araújo Auryclennedy Calou de , Gomes Josivanda Palmeira , Silva Francilânia Batista da , Nunes Jarderlany Sousa , Santos Francislaine Suelia dos , Silva Wilton Pereira da , Ferreira João Paulo de Lima , Queiroz Alexandre José de Melo , Figueirêdo Rossana Maria Feitosa de , Lima Geovani Soares de , Soares Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos , Rocha Ana Paula Trindade , Lima Antonio Gilson Barbosa de
Published: April 2023

Among the vegetables that stand out for their high concentration of anthocyanins, red cabbage appears as one of the most-used sources of these pigments in food production and it is considered a suitable raw material for the extraction of natural dye. Therefore, the objective was to carry out the production of natural extracts from red cabbage, under different conditions, varying the solvent, type of pre-treatment, pH range, and processing temperature during the concentration of the extracts. The anthocyanins were extracted from red cabbage using the following solvents: distilled water, 25% ethyl alcohol, and 70% ethyl alcohol. The raw material was divided into two groups, the first was subjected to a drying pre-treatment at 70 °C for 1 h and for the second group, the extraction was performed with the raw material in natura. Two pH ranges of 4.0 and 6.0 and extraction temperatures of 25 °C and 75 °C were used in the extracts, resulting in 24 formulations. The extracts obtained were analyzed for colorimetric parameters and anthocyanins. The results of anthocyanins show that the methodology that uses 25% alcohol, pH 4.0, and processing temperature of 25 °C produces a reddish extract and better results in the extraction, presenting average values of 191.37 mg/100 g of anthocyanins, being 74% higher compared to the highest values obtained in the other extracts where the same raw material was used and the solvents differed.
Scalable Wettability Modification of Aluminum Surface through Single-Shot Nanosecond Laser Processing
Authors: Ngo Chi-Vinh , Liu Yu , Li Wei , Yang Jianjun , Guo Chunlei
Published: April 2023

Conversion of a regular metal surface to a superhydrophobic one has great appeal because of the wide range of potential applications such as anti-fouling, anti-corrosion, and anti-icing. One promising technique is to modify surface wettability by laser processing to form nano-micro hierarchical structures with various patterns, such as pillars, grooves, and grids, followed by an aging process in the air or additional chemical processes. Surface processing is typically a lengthy process. Herein, we demonstrate a facile laser technique that converts the surface wettability of aluminum from inherently hydrophilic to hydrophobic and superhydrophobic with single-shot nanosecond laser irradiation. A single shot covers a fabrication area of approximately 19.6 mm2. The resultant hydrophobic and superhydrophobic effects persisted after six months. The effect of the incident laser energy on the surface wettability is studied, and the underlying mechanism of the wettability conversion through single-shot irradiation is suggested. The obtained surface shows a self-cleaning effect and the control of water adhesion. The single-shot nanosecond laser processing technique promises a fast and scalable method to produce laser-induced surface superhydrophobicity.
Optical Properties of Conical Quantum Dot: Exciton-Related Raman Scattering, Interband Absorption and Photoluminescence
Authors: Gavalajyan Sargis P. , Mantashian Grigor A. , Kharatyan Gor Ts. , Sarkisyan Hayk A. , Mantashyan Paytsar A. , Baskoutas Sotirios , Hayrapetyan David B.
Published: April 2023

The current work used the effective mass approximation conjoined with the finite element method to study the exciton states in a conical GaAs quantum dot. In particular, the dependence of the exciton energy on the geometrical parameters of a conical quantum dot has been studied. Once the one-particle eigenvalue equations have been solved, both for electrons and holes, the available information on energies and wave functions is used as input to calculate exciton energy and the effective band gap of the system. The lifetime of an exciton in a conical quantum dot has been estimated and shown to be in the range of nanoseconds. In addition, exciton-related Raman scattering, interband light absorption and photoluminescence in conical GaAs quantum dots have been calculated. It has been shown that with a decrease in the size of the quantum dot, the absorption peak has a blue shift, which is more pronounced for quantum dots of smaller sizes. Furthermore, the interband optical absorption and photoluminescence spectra have been revealed for different sizes of GaAs quantum dot.
Toward Long-Term-Dispersible, Metal-Free Single-Chain Nanoparticles
Authors: Blázquez-Martín Agustín , Ruiz-Bardillo Ainara , Verde-Sesto Ester , Iturrospe Amaia , Arbe Arantxa , Pomposo José A.
Published: April 2023

We report herein on a new platform for synthesizing stable, inert, and dispersible metal-free single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) via intramolecular metal-traceless azide–alkyne click chemistry. It is well known that SCNPs synthesized via Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) often experience metal-induced aggregation issues during storage. Moreover, the presence of metal traces limits its use in a number of potential applications. To address these problems, we selected a bifunctional cross-linker molecule, sym-dibenzo-1,5-cyclooctadiene-3,7-diyne (DIBOD). DIBOD has two highly strained alkyne bonds that allow for the synthesis of metal-free SCNPs. We demonstrate the utility of this new approach by synthesizing metal-free polystyrene (PS)-SCNPs without significant aggregation issues during storage, as demonstrated by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) experiments. Notably, this method paves the way for the synthesis of long-term-dispersible, metal-free SCNPs from potentially any polymer precursor decorated with azide functional groups.
Evolution of Micro-Nano Energy Harvesting Technology—Scavenging Energy from Diverse Sources towards Self-Sustained Micro/Nano Systems
Authors: Le Xianhao , Guo Xinge , Lee Chengkuo
Published: April 2023

Facing the energy consumption of a huge number of distributed wireless Internet of Things (IoT) sensor nodes, scavenging energy from the ambient environment to power these devices is considered to be a promising method. Moreover, abundant energy sources of various types are widely distributed in the surrounding environment, which can be converted into electrical energy by micro-nano energy harvesters based on different mechanisms. In this review paper, we briefly introduce the development of different energy harvesters according to the classification of target energy sources, including microscale and nanoscale energy harvesters for vibrational energy sources, microscale energy harvesters for non-vibrational energy sources, and micro-nano energy harvesters for hybrid energy sources. Furthermore, the current advances and future prospects of the applications of micro-nano energy harvesters in event-based IoT systems and self-sustained systems are discussed.
The Non-Coding RNA Journal Club: Highlights on Recent Papers—12
Authors: Shiu Patrick K. T. , Ilieva Mirolyuba , Holm Anja , Uchida Shizuka , DiStefano Johanna K. , Bronisz Agnieszka , Yang Ling , Asahi Yoh , Goel Ajay , Yang Liuqing , Nuthanakanti Ashok , Serganov Alexander , Alahari Suresh K. , Lin Chunru , Pardini Barbara , Naccarati Alessio , Jin Jing , Armanios Beshoy , Zhong Xiao-bo , Sideris Nikolaos , Bayraktar Salih , Castellano Leandro , Gerber André P. , Lin He , Conn Simon J. , Sleem Doha Magdy Mostafa , Timmons Lisa
Published: April 2023

We are delighted to share with you our twelfth Journal Club and highlight some of the most interesting papers published recently [...]
Oral intake of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LPG1 Produces a Beneficial Regulation of Gut Microbiota in Healthy Persons: A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind Trial
Authors: López-García Elio , Benítez-Cabello Antonio , Arenas-de Larriva Antonio Pablo , Gutierrez-Mariscal Francisco Miguel , Pérez-Martínez Pablo , Yubero-Serrano Elena María , Garrido-Fernández Antonio , Arroyo-López Francisco Noé
Published: April 2023

The search for vegetable-origin probiotic microorganisms is a recent area of interest. This study conducted a phase I clinical trial to assess the effects of oral administration of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus LPG1, a natural strain with probiotic potential isolated from table olive fermentations, on the gut microbiota. The trial was a randomised, placebo-controlled, single-blind study involving 39 healthy volunteers. Group A (n = 20) ingested one capsule/day of L. pentosus LPG1 containing 1 × 1010 UFC/capsule, while Group B (n = 19) received one capsule/day containing only dextrose (placebo). The capsules were taken during breakfast for 30 consecutive days. Human stool samples were collected from all volunteers at the beginning (baseline) and at the end of the study (post-intervention) and were subjected to 16S rRNA metataxonomic analysis using Illumina MiSeq. Sequencing data at the genus level were statistically analysed using traditional methods and compositional data analysis (CoDA). After treatment, the alpha diversity in Group B (placebo) decreased according to an increase in the Berger and Parker dominance index (p-value < 0.05); moreover, dominance D increased and Simpson 1-D index decreased (p-value < 0.10). The Lactobacillus genus in the faeces was included in the CoDA signature balances (selbal and coda4microbiome) and played a notable role in distinguishing samples from baseline and post-intervention in Group A (LPG1). Additionally, ingesting L. pentosus LPG1 modified the gut microbiota post-intervention, increasing the presence of Parabacteroides and Agathobacter, but reducing Prevotella. These findings suggest that L. pentosus LPG1 is a potentially beneficial gut microbiota modulator in healthy persons.
New Perspectives on the Associations between Blood Fatty Acids, Growth Parameters, and Cognitive Development in Global Child Populations
Authors: Cardino Vanessa N. , Goeden Travis , Yakah William , Ezeamama Amara E. , Fenton Jenifer I.
Published: April 2023

Malnutrition is prevalent in low-middle-income countries (LMICs), but it is usually clinically diagnosed through abnormal anthropometric parameters characteristic of protein energy malnutrition (PEM). In doing so, other contributors or byproducts of malnutrition, notably essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD), are overlooked. Previous research performed mainly in high-income countries (HICs) shows that deficiencies in essential fatty acids (EFAs) and their n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) byproducts (also known as highly unsaturated fatty acids or HUFAs) lead to both abnormal linear growth and impaired cognitive development. These adverse developmental outcomes remain an important public health issue in LMICs. To identify EFAD before severe malnutrition develops, clinicians should perform blood fatty acid panels to measure levels of fatty acids associated with EFAD, notably Mead acid and HUFAs. This review demonstrates the importance of measuring endogenous fatty acid levels for measuring fatty acid intake in various child populations in LMICs. Featured topics include a comparison of fatty acid levels between global child populations, the relationships between growth and cognition and PUFAs and the possible mechanisms driving these relationships, and the potential importance of EFAD and HUFA scores as biomarkers of overall health and normal development.
Eating Behaviours of Polish and Portuguese Adults—Cross-Sectional Surveys
Authors: Bober Julia , Wiśniewska Klaudia , Okręglicka Katarzyna
Published: April 2023

Eating behaviours affect energy intake through the types and amounts of foods chosen and decisions about the beginning and ending of the eating process. This study aims to determine and compare the eating behaviours of Polish and Portuguese adults and, in addition, to establish the correlations between daily behaviours, food-approaches and food-avoidance behaviours, and BMI in both populations. The study was conducted between January 2023 and March 2023. Participants from Poland and Portugal responded to the AEBQ questionnaire and questions on eating habits and body-image self-perception. The research tool was a website-based survey questionnaire with single-choice questions. No significant differences related to BMI levels were found between the Polish and Portuguese adults in terms of their eating behaviours. Both groups were characterised by the increased intensity of their food-approach behaviours, which was directly correlated with increases in BMI. Greater snacking intensity and binge drinking were associated with higher BMI. The study revealed an increased prevalence of binge drinking in the Polish sample. The study also confirmed a higher frequency of food-approach behaviours in overweight and/or obese individuals and uncontrolled calorie intake in participants imposing dietary restrictions for weight loss. Nutrition education is needed to improve eating habits and food choices, as well as to prevent overweight and obesity in adults.
Proanthocyanidins Inhibit Osteoblast Apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT/Bcl-xL Pathway in the Treatment of Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head in Rats
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Yufei , Hao Yangquan , Xu Peng , Wang Xingyu , Zhu Bin , Lu Chao , Xu Ke
Published: April 2023

Background: Steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH) is a common clinical disease caused by massive or prolonged use of steroids. Its pathogenesis is unclear, but its incidence is increasing annually. It is characterized by an insidious and rapid onset, and high disability rate, causing a great burden on patients’ daily life. Therefore, clarifying its pathogenesis and providing early and effective treatment for steroid osteonecrosis is important. Methods: In vivo, we used methylprednisolone (MPS) to construct a SONFH rat model and employed Mirco-ct, Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining analysis to evaluate the therapeutic effects of proanthocyanidins (PACs). Network pharmacology analysis was conducted to mine targets associated with femoral head necrosis, and PACs analyzed possible molecular mechanisms. In vitro, PACs were added at different doses after treatment of cells with dexamethasone (DEX), and human osteoblast-like sarcoma(MG-63) cell apoptosis was determined by Annexin V-FITC-PI. The mechanisms by which PACs regulate bone metabolism via the Phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT)/Recombinant Human B-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma 2 XL(Bcl-xL) axis were explored by Western blotting. Result: In vivo studies showed that PACs prevented SONFH in rat model. The PI3K/AKT/Bcl-xL signaling pathway was selected by network pharmacology approach; in vitro studies showed that proanthocyanidin-activated AKT and Bcl-xL inhibited osteoblast apoptosis. Conclusions: PACs can inhibit excessive osteoblast apoptosis in SONFH via the PI3K/AKT/Bcl-xL signaling axis and have potential therapeutic effects.
The Nutritional Quality of Food Provision at UK Government-Funded Holiday Clubs: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Energy and Nutrient Content
Authors: Vitale Martina , Crossland Shannon , Shinwell Jackie , Stretesky Paul B. , Defeyter Margaret Anne , Brownlee Iain Andrew
Published: April 2023

A large proportion of children are at risk of food insecurity during school holidays in the UK. The government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme provides free holiday clubs offering at least one healthy meal/day to eligible children and adolescents. This study aims at evaluating the nutritional quality of food provision at HAF holiday clubs, particularly hot/cold and vegetarian/non-vegetarian meals. Menu variants (n = 2759) from 49 HAF holiday clubs were assessed for adherence to School Food Standards (SFS) and their notional compositional quality, which was scored utilising a novel nutrient-based meal quality index. The median adherence to SFS across all available menus was 70% (IQR 59–79%). Overall, hot variants scored statistically higher menu quality scores than cold variants for both 5–11y (92.3 (80.7–102.7) vs. 80.4 (69.3–90.6)) and 11–18y (73.5 (62.5–85.8) vs. 58.9 (50.0–70.7)) criteria. Cold and hot menu variants tended to score differentially for quality sub-components. These findings highlight areas for potential future improvement in HAF holiday club provision with a tendency for food provision to appear less ideal for attendees for those aged 11–18. Ensuring that children from low-income households have access to a healthy diet is crucial to reduce UK health inequalities.
An Acute Bout of Endurance Exercise Does Not Prevent the Inhibitory Effect of Caffeine on Glucose Tolerance the following Morning
Authors: Fenne Karoline T. , Clauss Matthieu , Schäfer Olstad Daniela , Johansen Egil I. , Jensen Jørgen
Published: April 2023

Caffeine reduces glucose tolerance, whereas exercise training improves glucose homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of caffeine on glucose tolerance the morning after an acute bout of aerobic exercise. Methods: The study had a 2 × 2 factorial design. Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were performed after overnight fasting with/without caffeine and with/without exercise the evening before. Eight healthy young active males were included (Age 25.5 ± 1.5 years; 83.9 ± 9.0 kg; VO2max: 54.3 ± 7.0 mL·kg−1·min−1). The exercise session consisted of 30 min cycling at 71% of VO2max followed by four 5 min intervals at 84% with 3 min of cycling at 40% of VO2max between intervals. The exercise was performed at 17:00 h. Energy expenditure at each session was ~976 kcal. Lactate increased to ~8 mM during the exercise sessions. Participants arrived at the laboratory the following morning at 7.00 AM after an overnight fast. Resting blood samples were taken before blood pressure and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured. Caffeine (3 mg/kg bodyweight) or placebo (similar taste/flavor) was ingested, and blood samples, blood pressure and HRV were measured after 30 min. Next, the OGTTs were initiated (75 g glucose dissolved in 3 dL water) and blood was sampled. Blood pressure and HRV were measured during the OGTT. Caffeine increased the area under curve (AUC) for glucose independently of whether exercise was done the evening before (p = 0.03; Two-way ANOVA; Interaction: p = 0.835). Caffeine did not significantly increase AUC for C-peptides compared to placebo (p = 0.096), and C-peptide response was not influenced by exercise. The acute bout of exercise did not significantly improve glucose tolerance the following morning. Diastolic blood pressure during the OGTT was slightly higher after intake of caffeine, independent of whether exercise was performed the evening before or not. Neither caffeine nor exercise the evening before significantly influenced HRV. In conclusion, caffeine reduced glucose tolerance independently of whether endurance exercise was performed the evening before. The low dose of caffeine did not influence heart rate variability but increased diastolic blood pressure slightly.
The Link between Different Types of Prebiotics in Infant Formula and Infection Rates: A Review
Authors: Cool Roxane , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: April 2023

Breastfeeding plays a protective role against infections, partially through the prebiotic effect of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Aiming to mimic these beneficial capacities, there is an ongoing search to make infant formula closer to human milk, including by adding oligosaccharides. Over the past two decades, multiple studies have been published on different types of prebiotics and their role in reducing infection rates in infants. This review aims to answer the question of whether there is evidence that the addition of oligosaccharides to infant formula decreases the prevalence of infection, and whether the effect is influenced by the kind of oligosaccharide added. The review of the literature reveals an important heterogeneity, including different types and dosages of prebiotics, different intervention periods and inclusion criteria, etc., making it impossible to formulate a consensus about the efficacy of adding prebiotics to infant formula. We would cautiously suggest that supplementation with galactooligosaccharides (GOSs)/fructooligosaccharides (FOSs) seems to have a beneficial effect on infection rates. For HMOs, more studies about the different types of HMOs are necessary to make any deductions. GOSs alone, inulin, and MOSs (bovine-milk-derived oligosaccharides) do not reduce the incidence of infections. The combination of GOSs and PDX (polydextrose) was found to play a protective role in one study. The evidence of the effect of prebiotics in reducing the use of antibiotics is low. The many lacunas in the direction of study uniformity offer many opportunities for further research.
Nutrition, Nutritional Status and Functionality
Authors: Fernández-Lázaro Diego , Seco-Calvo Jesús
Published: April 2023

A good quality of life means obtaining adequate nutrition and regular physical activity [...]
Reinvestigation of the Room Temperature Photochemical Reaction between N-Methyl-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione (MeTAD) and Benzene
Authors: Breton Gary W.
Published: April 2023

The photochemical reaction of N-methyl-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione (MeTAD) with benzene is known to lead to a Diels–Alder cycloaddition product when conducted at low temperatures (i.e., <−60 °C). This reactivity has been exploited recently for novel synthetic applications. It was previously reported that no reaction between MeTAD and benzene occurs at room temperature. However, it has now been discovered that MeTAD reacts effectively with benzene upon visible light irradiation over a several day period at room temperature. The major product is a para-substituted bisurazole adduct. Our studies indicate that the adduct is formed via sequential aromatic substitution reactions made possible by electron transfer from the aromatic ring to the highly electrophilic triplet state of photoactivated MeTAD.
Reduced Cholesterol Levels during Acute Human Babesiosis
Authors: Marcos Luis A. , Vorkas Charles Kyriakos , Mann Inderjit , Garry Evan , Lamba Pooja , Pham Sophia K. , Spector Rachel , Papamanoli Aikaterini , Krivacsy Sara , Lum Michael , Zahra Aleena , Hou Wei , Spitzer Eric D.
Published: April 2023

Background: Babesiosis, an intra-erythrocytic protozoan disease, is an emerging zoonotic parasitic disease worldwide. Cholesterol levels are correlated with severe infections, such as sepsis and COVID-19, and anecdotal reports suggest that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol declines during acute babesiosis. Our aim was to describe the cholesterol levels in patients with acute babesiosis diagnosed in an endemic area in New York, hypothesizing that HDL levels correlate with the severity of infection. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of adult patients with babesiosis diagnosed by identification of Babesia parasites on a thin blood smear and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction from 2013 to 2018, who also had available a lipid profile drawn at the time of clinical presentation. Additional lipid profile levels were considered as “baseline” if they were drawn within 2 months before or after the infection as part of routine care. Results: A total of 39 patients with babesiosis had a lipid profile drawn on presentation. The patients were divided into two groups for comparison based on the treating physician’s clinical decision: 33 patients who were admitted to the hospital and 8 patients who were evaluated as outpatients. A history of hypertension was more common in admitted patients (37% vs. 17%, p = 0.02). The median levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and HDL were significantly reduced in admitted patients compared to non-admitted patients (46 vs. 76 mg/dL, p = 0.04; and 9 vs. 28.5 mg/dL, p = 0.03, respectively). In addition, LDL and HDL levels returned to baseline values following resolution of acute babesiosis. Conclusion: LDL and HDL levels are significantly reduced during acute babesiosis, suggesting that cholesterol depletion may predict disease severity. Pathogen and host factors may contribute to a reduction in serum cholesterol levels during acute babesiosis.
Comparison of Compartmental and Non-Compartmental Analysis to Detect Biopharmaceutical Similarity of Intravenous Nanomaterial-Based Rifabutin Formulations
Authors: Osipova Nadezhda , Budko Andrey , Maksimenko Olga , Shipulo Elena , Vanchugova Ludmila , Chen Wenqian , Gelperina Svetlana , Wacker Matthias G.
Published: April 2023

Pharmacometric analysis is often used to quantify the differences and similarities between formulation prototypes. In the regulatory framework, it plays a significant role in the evaluation of bioequivalence. While non-compartmental analysis provides an unbiased data evaluation, mechanistic compartmental models such as the physiologically-based nanocarrier biopharmaceutics model promise improved sensitivity and resolution for the underlying causes of inequivalence. In the present investigation, both techniques were applied to two nanomaterial-based formulations for intravenous injection, namely, albumin-stabilized rifabutin nanoparticles and rifabutin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles. The antibiotic rifabutin holds great potential for the treatment of severe and acute infections of patients co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus and tuberculosis. The formulations differ significantly in their formulation and material attributes, resulting in an altered biodistribution pattern as confirmed in a biodistribution study in rats. The albumin-stabilized delivery system further undergoes a dose-dependent change in particle size which leads to a small yet significant change in the in vivo performance. A second analysis was conducted comparing the dose fraction-scaled pharmacokinetic profiles of three dose levels of albumin-stabilized rifabutin nanoparticles. The dose strength affects both the nanomaterial-related absorption and biodistribution of the carrier as well as the drug-related distribution and elimination parameters, increasing the background noise and difficulty of detecting inequivalence. Depending on the pharmacokinetic parameter (e.g., AUC, Cmax, Clobs), the relative (percentage) difference from the average observed using non-compartmental modeling ranged from 85% to 5.2%. A change in the formulation type (PLGA nanoparticles vs. albumin-stabilized rifabutin nanoparticles) resulted in a similar level of inequivalence as compared to a change in the dose strength. A mechanistic compartmental analysis using the physiologically-based nanocarrier biopharmaceutics model led to an average difference of 152.46% between the two formulation prototypes. Albumin-stabilized rifabutin nanoparticles tested at different dose levels led to a 128.30% difference, potentially due to changes in particle size. A comparison of different dose strengths of PLGA nanoparticles, on average, led to a 3.87% difference. This study impressively illustrates the superior sensitivity of mechanistic compartmental analysis when dealing with nanomedicines.
Poly(β-amino ester)s-Based Delivery Systems for Targeted Transdermal Vaccination
Authors: Puigmal Núria , Ramos Víctor , Artzi Natalie , Borrós Salvador
Published: April 2023

Nucleic acid vaccines have become a transformative technology to fight emerging infectious diseases and cancer. Delivery of such via the transdermal route could boost their efficacy given the complex immune cell reservoir present in the skin that is capable of engendering robust immune responses. We have generated a novel library of vectors derived from poly(β-amino ester)s (PBAEs) including oligopeptide-termini and a natural ligand, mannose, for targeted transfection of antigen presenting cells (APCs) such as Langerhans cells and macrophages in the dermal milieu. Our results reaffirmed terminal decoration of PBAEs with oligopeptide chains as a powerful tool to induce cell-specific transfection, identifying an outstanding candidate with a ten-fold increased transfection efficiency over commercial controls in vitro. The inclusion of mannose in the PBAE backbone rendered an additive effect and increased transfection levels, achieving superior gene expression in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells and other accessory antigen presenting cells. Moreover, top performing candidates were capable of mediating surface gene transfer when deposited as polyelectrolyte films onto transdermal devices such as microneedles, offering alternatives to conventional hypodermic administration. We predict that the use of highly efficient delivery vectors derived from PBAEs could advance clinical translation of nucleic acid vaccination over protein- and peptide-based strategies.
Towards the Continuous Manufacturing of Liquisolid Tablets Containing Simethicone and Loperamide Hydrochloride with the Use of a Twin-Screw Granulator
Authors: Zakowiecki Daniel , Richter Margarethe , Yuece Ceren , Voelp Annika , Ries Maximilian , Papaioannou Markos , Edinger Peter , Hess Tobias , Mojsiewicz-Pieńkowska Krystyna , Cal Krzysztof
Published: April 2023

Continuous manufacturing is becoming the new technological standard in the pharmaceutical industry. In this work, a twin-screw processor was employed for the continuous production of liquisolid tablets containing either simethicone or a combination of simethicone with loperamide hydrochloride. Both active ingredients present major technological challenges, as simethicone is a liquid, oily substance, and loperamide hydrochloride was used in a very small amount (0.27% w/w). Despite these difficulties, the use of porous tribasic calcium phosphate as a carrier and the adjustment of the settings of the twin-screw processor enabled the optimization of the characteristics of the liquid-loaded powders and made it possible to efficiently produce liquisolid tablets with advantages in physical and functional properties. The application of chemical imaging by means of Raman spectroscopy allowed for the visualization of differences in the distribution of individual components of the formulations. This proved to be a very effective tool for identifying the optimum technology to produce a drug product.