bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Bioaccessibility Assessment of Phenolic Compounds from Encapsulated Grape Pomace Extract by Ionic Gelation
Authors: Martinović Josipa , Lukinac Jasmina , Jukić Marko , Ambrus Rita , Planinić Mirela , Šelo Gordana , Klarić Ana-Marija , Perković Gabriela , Bucić-Kojić Ana
Published: July 2023

Grape pomace is a by-product of winemaking characterized by a rich chemical composition from which phenolics stand out. Phenolics are health-promoting agents, and their beneficial effects depend on their bioaccessibility, which is influenced by gastrointestinal digestion. The effect of encapsulating phenol-rich grape pomace extract (PRE) with sodium alginate (SA), a mixture of SA with gelatin (SA-GEL), and SA with chitosan (SA-CHIT) on the bioaccessibility index (BI) of phenolics during simulated digestion in vitro was studied. A total of 27 individual phenolic compounds (IPCs) were quantified by UHPLC. The addition of a second coating to SA improved the encapsulation efficiency (EE), and the highest EE was obtained for SA-CHIT microbeads (56.25%). Encapsulation affected the physicochemical properties (size, shape and texture, morphology, crystallinity) of the produced microbeads, which influenced the delivery of phenolics to the intestine and their BI. Thus, SA-GEL microbeads had the largest size parameters, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the highest BI for total phenolic compounds and IPCs (gallic acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid and o-coumaric acid, epicatechin, and gallocatechin gallate) ranged from 96.20 to 1011.3%. The results suggest that encapsulated PRE has great potential to be used as a functional ingredient in products for oral administration.
Optimization of the Extraction Conditions of Bioactive Compounds from Ocimum basilicum Leaves Using Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction via a Sonotrode
Authors: Aloisio Carolina , Razola-Díaz María del Carmen , Aznar-Ramos María José , Longhi Marcela R. , Andreatta Alfonsina E. , Verardo Vito
Published: July 2023

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) leaves are rich in bioactive compounds that present therapeutic benefits for human health. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) is frequently used to obtain phenolic compounds from plants/herbal sources. However, few works have developed multi-variable studies to find the optimal conditions to extract the maximum amount of compounds, especially when applied to UAE via a sonotrode. The purpose of this work was to perform a multi-variable study by employing a Box–Behnken design to collect the highest active compound content from Ocimum basilicum leaves. The efficacy of the design was endorsed by ANOVA. The studied parameters for UAE via a sonotrode were the ethanol/water ratio, amplitude, and time. The analyzed responses were the rosmarinic acid, the sum of phenolic acids, and the sum of phenolic compounds content. The optimal conditions were found to be 50% ethanol/water, 50% amplitude, and 5 min. Twenty bioactive compounds were identified by HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS when the extract was collected by applying the optimal conditions. Ocimum basilicum may be appreciated as a valuable source of important bioactive substances for pharmaceutical use.
Quality Marker Discovery and Quality Evaluation of Eucommia ulmoides Pollen Using UPLC-QTOF-MS Combined with a DPPH-HPLC Antioxidant Activity Screening Method
Authors: Guo Fengqian , Yang Yichun , Duan Yu , Li Chun , Gao Huimin , Liu Hongyu , Cui Qiping , Guo Zhongyuan , Liu Xiaoqian , Wang Zhimin
Published: July 2023

Pollen, as an important component of Eucommia ulmoides (EUP), is rich in nutrients and is receiving increasing attention. At present, there are no reports on research related to the chemical composition and quality standards of EUP, and there are significant quality differences and counterfeit phenomena in the market. This study used a UPLC-QTOF-MS system to identify 49 chemical components in EUP for the first time. In the second step, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-HPLC antioxidant activity screening technology was used to identify the main active components of EUP, quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (QSH), quercetin-3-O-sambubioside (QSB), and quercetin 3-O-neohesperidoside (QNH), and their purification, preparation, and structure identification were carried out. Third, molecular docking was used to predict the activity of these components. Fourth, the intracellular ROS generation model of RAW264.7 induced by H2O2 was used to verify and evaluate the activity of candidate active ingredients to determine their feasibility as Q-markers. Finally, a quality control method for EUP was constructed using the three selected components as Q-markers. The identification of chemical components and the discovery, prediction, and confirmation of characteristic Q-markers in EUP provide important references for better research on EUP and the effective evaluation and control of its quality. This approach provides a new model for the quality control of novel foods or dietary supplements.
New Advances in Dye Analyses: In Situ Gel-Supported Liquid Extraction from Paint Layers and Textiles for SERS and HPLC-MS/MS Identification
Authors: Bosi Adele , Peruzzi Greta , Ciccola Alessandro , Serafini Ilaria , Vincenti Flaminia , Montesano Camilla , Postorino Paolo , Sergi Manuel , Favero Gabriele , Curini Roberta
Published: July 2023

To date, it is still not possible to obtain exhaustive information about organic materials in cultural heritage without sampling. Nonetheless, when studying unique objects with invaluable artistic or historical significance, preserving their integrity is a priority. In particular, organic dye identification is of significant interest for history and conservation research, but it is still hindered by analytes’ low concentration and poor fastness. In this work, a minimally invasive approach for dye identification is presented. The procedure is designed to accompany noninvasive analyses of inorganic substances for comprehensive studies of complex cultural heritage matrices, in compliance with their soundness. Liquid extraction of madder, turmeric, and indigo dyes was performed directly from paint layers and textiles. The extraction was supported by hydrogels, which themselves can undergo multitechnique analyses in the place of samples. After extraction, Ag colloid pastes were applied on the gels for SERS analyses, allowing for the identification of the three dyes. For the HPLC-MS/MS analyses, re-extraction of the dyes was followed by a clean-up step that was successfully applied on madder and turmeric. The colour change perceptivity after extraction was measured with colorimetry. The results showed ΔE values mostly below the upper limit of rigorous colour change, confirming the gentleness of the procedure.
Garcinol and Anacardic Acid, Natural Inhibitors of Histone Acetyltransferases, Inhibit Rhabdomyosarcoma Growth and Proliferation
Authors: Tomasiak Patrycja , Janisiak Joanna , Rogińska Dorota , Perużyńska Magdalena , Machaliński Bogusław , Tarnowski Maciej
Published: July 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a malignant tumour of the soft tissues. There are two main histopathological types: alveolar and embryonal. RMS occurs mainly in childhood and is a result of the deregulation of growth and differentiation of muscle cell precursors. There is an increasing amount of data indicating that numerous epigenetic alterations within chromatin and histone proteins are involved in the pathogenesis of this malignancy. Histone acetylation is one of the most important epigenetic modifications that is catalysed by enzymes from the group of histone acetyltransferases (HAT). In this study, the impact of the natural histone acetyltransferase inhibitors (HATi)—garcinol (GAR) and anacardic acid (AA)—on the biology of RMS cells was evaluated through a series of in vitro tests measuring proliferation, viability, clonogenicity, cell cycle and apoptosis. Moreover, using oligonucleotide microarrays and real-time PCR, we identified several genes whose expression changed after GAR and AA treatment. The examined HATi significantly reduce the invasive phenotype of RMS cells by inhibiting the growth rate, viability and clonogenic abilities. What is more, these substances cause cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, induce apoptosis and affect the genetic expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors. GAR and AA may serve as promising potential anti-cancer drugs since they sensitize the RMS cells to chemotherapeutic treatment.
Influence of SGLT1 Sugar Uptake Inhibitors on Water Transport
Authors: Sever Marko , Merzel Franci
Published: July 2023

Sodium glucose cotransporters (SGLTs) are cotransporters located in the cell membrane of various epithelia that uptake glucose or galactose and sodium into the cell. Its founding member, SGLT1, represents a major pharmaceutically relevant target protein for development of new antidiabetic drugs, in addition to being the target protein of the oral rehydration therapy. Previous studies focused primarily on the transport of substrates and ions, while our study focuses on the effect of water transport. SGLT1 is implicated in the absorption of water, yet the exact mechanism of how the water absorption occurs or how inhibitors of SGLT1, such as phlorizin, are able to inhibit it is still unclear. Here we present a comprehensive study based on molecular dynamics simulations with the aim of determining the influence of the energetic and dynamic properties of SGLT1, which are influenced by selected sugar uptake inhibitors on water permeation.
A Facile Preparation of Sandwich-Structured Pd/Polypyrrole-Graphene/Pd Catalysts for Formic Acid Electro-Oxidation
Authors: Lu Zhenjiang , Qin Wenjin , Ma Juan , Cao Yali , Bao Shujuan
Published: July 2023

Direct formic acid fuel cells (DFAFCs) are one of the most promising power sources due to its high conversion efficiency; relatively low carbon emissions, toxicity, and flammability; convenience; and low-cost storage and transportation. However, the key challenge to large-scale commercial applications is its poor power performance and the catalyst’s high preparation cost. In this study, a new sandwich-structured Pd/polypyrrole-graphene/Pd (Pd/PPy-Gns/Pd)-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was prepared using a simple constant potential (CP) electrodeposition technique. On the basis of the unique synthetic procedure and structural advantages, the Pd/PPy-Gns/Pd shows a fast charge/mass transport rate, high electrocatalytic activity, and great stability for formic acid electro-oxidation (FAO). The mass activity of Pd/PPy-Gns/Pd electrode reaches 917 mA·mg−1Pd. The excellent catalytic activity is mainly due to the uniform embedding of Pd nanoparticles on the polypyrrole-graphene (PPy-Gns) support, which exposes more active sites, and prevents the shedding and inactivation of Pd nanoparticles. At the same time, the introduction of graphene (Gns) in the PPy further improved the conductivity of the catalyst and accelerated the transfer of electrons.
Poly (Aryl Amino Ketone/Sulfones) with Obvious Electrochromic Effect Prepared by One-Step Low-Cost and Facile Synthesis
Authors: Jia Songrui , Xing Zhen , Wang Qilin , Wang Shiwei , Chen Zheng
Published: July 2023

High-performance donor-acceptor (D-A) polymers, as an important class of electrochromic (EC) materials, have attracted extensive attention. In this paper, a series of novel poly (aryl amino ketone) (PAAK) and poly (aryl amino sulfone) (PAAS) type high-performance polymers (HPP) with electrochromism were prepared by a simple C-N coupling reaction and were coated on an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate as EC films. All four polymers were prepared by a nucleophilic substitution reaction using commercially purchased amine monomers with difluoride sulfone/ketone using potassium carbonate as a catalyst. A series of tests were performed to compare and analyze the effects of the different electron-withdrawing abilities of sulfone and carbonyl groups, and the different conjugation lengths of these two TPA structures were connected to the EC properties of the polymer. The different phenyl or biphenyl of the two TPA structures mainly affected the oxidation potential of the polymer, while the sulfone group and the carbonyl group, with a different electron absorption ability, had a greater influence on the energy band and cyclic stability. The optical contrast of PAAS−BT at 850 nm was up to 58% and maintained 450 cycles, indicating that this series of materials had a broad application prospect waiting for further research. In addition to the performance, the raw materials used in this work could be directly and commercially purchased for a low price; the two aniline monomers were priced at about $0.43 /g and $0.15 /g, respectively. This method significantly reduces the cost and provides a new idea for subsequent large-scale production and practical applications.
Metabolomics and Proteomics Responses of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) Muscle under Organic Selenium Temporary Rearing
Authors: Li Hailan , Liu Wenbo , Liao Tao , Zheng Wei , Qiu Jianhui , Xiong Guangquan , Zu Xiaoyan
Published: July 2023

Organic selenium has been widely studied as a nutritional supplement for animal feed. However, there are few studies on the effect of organic selenium on flesh quality. In this study, the effects of organic selenium (yeast selenium (YS), Se 0.002 mg/L) on the metabolism and protein expression in Micropterus salmoides muscle under temporary fasting condition (6 weeks) were investigated. The muscle structure was observed through a microscope, and regulatory pathways were analyzed using proteomics and metabolomics methods. Electron microscopy showed that YS made the muscle fibers of M. salmoides more closely aligned. Differential analysis identified 523 lipid molecules and 268 proteins. The numbers of upregulated and downregulated proteins were 178 and 90, respectively, including metabolism (46.15%), cytoskeleton (11.24%) and immune oxidative stress (9.47%), etc. Integrated analyses revealed that YS enhanced muscle glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation metabolism. In the YS group, the content of eicosapentaenoic acid was increased, and that of docosahexaenoic acid was decreased. YS slowed down protein degradation by downregulating ubiquitin and ubiquitin ligase expression. These results suggest that organic selenium can improve M. salmoides muscle quality through the aforementioned pathways, which provides potential insights into the improvement of the quality of aquatic products, especially fish.
Dietary Supplementation of Aspirin Promotes Drosophila Defense against Viral Infection
Authors: Kong Fanrui , Qadeer Abdul , Xie Yali , Jin Yiheng , Li Qingyang , Xiao Yihua , She Kan , Zheng Xianrui , Li Jiashu , Ji Shanming , Zhu Yangyang
Published: July 2023

Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is widely consumed as a pain reliever and an anti-inflammatory as well as anti-platelet agent. Recently, our studies using the animal model of Drosophila demonstrated that the dietary supplementation of aspirin renovates age-onset intestinal dysfunction and delays organismal aging. Nevertheless, it remains probable that aspirin plays functional roles in other biological activities, for instance antiviral defense reactions. Intriguingly, we observed that the replications of several types of viruses were drastically antagonized in Drosophila macrophage-like S2 cells with the addition of aspirin. Further in vivo experimental approaches illustrate that adult flies consuming aspirin harbor higher resistances to viral infections with respect to flies without aspirin treatment. Mechanistically, aspirin positively contributes to the Drosophila antiviral defense largely through mediating the STING (stimulator of interferon genes) but not the IMD (immune deficiency) signaling pathway. Collectively, our studies uncover a novel biological function of aspirin in modulating Drosophila antiviral immunity and provide theoretical bases for exploring new antiviral treatments in clinical trials.
Electronic Characteristics, Stability and Water Oxidation Selectivity of High-Index BiVO4 Facets for Photocatalytic Application: A First Principle Study
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Xiang Yuqi , Zhu Zhihong
Published: July 2023

Some high-index facets of BiVO4, such as (012), (210), (115), (511), (121), (132) and (231), exhibit much better photocatalytic performance than conventional (010) and (110) surfaces for water splitting. However, the detailed mechanisms and stability of improved photocatalytic performance for these high-index BiVO4 surfaces are still not clear, which is important for designing photocatalysts with high efficiency. Here, based on first principle calculation, we carried out a systematic theoretical research on BiVO4 with different surfaces, especially high-index facets. The results show that all of the high-index facets in our calculated systems show an n-type behavior, and the band edge positions indicate that all of the high-index facets have enough ability to produce O2 without external bias. Electronic structures, band alignments and formation enthalpy indicate that (012), (115) and (132) could be equivalent to (210), (511) and (231), respectively, in the calculation. Oxidation and reduction potential show that only (132)/(231) is stable without strongly oxidative conditions, and the Gibbs free energy indicates that (012)/(210), (115)/(511), (121) and (132)/(231) have lower overpotential than (010) and (110). Our calculation is able to unveil insights into the effects of the surface, including electronic structures, overpotential and stability during the reaction process.
Recent Progress in Multifunctional Graphene-Based Nanocomposites for Photocatalysis and Electrocatalysis Application
Authors: Yang Zanhe , Zhou Siqi , Feng Xiangyu , Wang Nannan , Ola Oluwafunmilola , Zhu Yanqiu
Published: July 2023

The global energy shortage and environmental degradation are two major issues of concern in today’s society. The production of renewable energy and the treatment of pollutants are currently the mainstream research directions in the field of photocatalysis. In addition, over the last decade or so, graphene (GR) has been widely used in photocatalysis due to its unique physical and chemical properties, such as its large light-absorption range, high adsorption capacity, large specific surface area, and excellent electronic conductivity. Here, we first introduce the unique properties of graphene, such as its high specific surface area, chemical stability, etc. Then, the basic principles of photocatalytic hydrolysis, pollutant degradation, and the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 are summarized. We then give an overview of the optimization strategies for graphene-based photocatalysis and the latest advances in its application. Finally, we present challenges and perspectives for graphene-based applications in this field in light of recent developments.
Enhanced Fluorescence Characteristics of SrAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+ Phosphor by Co-Doping Gd3+ and Anti-Counterfeiting Application
Authors: Gao Peng , Liu Quanxiao , Wu Jiao , Jing Jun , Zhang Wenguan , Zhang Junying , Jiang Tao , Wang Jigang , Qi Yuansheng , Li Zhenjun
Published: July 2023

A series of long-afterglow luminescent materials (SrAl2O4: Eu2+ (SAOE), SrAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+ (SAOED) and SrAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+, Gd3+ (SAOEDG)) was synthesized via the combustion method. Temperature and concentration control experiments were conducted on these materials to determine the optimal reaction temperature and ion doping concentration for each sample. The crystal structure and luminescent properties were analyzed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and afterglow attenuation curves. The outcomes demonstrate that the kind of crystal structure and the location of the emission peak were unaffected by the addition of ions. The addition of Eu2+ to the matrix’s lattice caused a broad green emission with a central wavelength of 508 nm, which was attributed to the characteristic 4f65d1 to 4f7 electronic dipole, which allowed the transition of Eu2+ ions. While acting as sensitizers, Dy3+ and Gd3+ could produce holes to create a trap energy level, which served as an electron trap center to catch some of the electrons produced by the excitation of Eu2+ but did not itself emit light. After excitation ceased, this allowed them to gently transition to the ground state to produce long-afterglow luminescence. It was observed that with the addition of sensitizer ions, the luminous intensity of the sample increased, and the afterglow duration lengthened. The elemental structure and valence states of the doped ions were determined with an X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to characterize the samples. The results show that the sample was synthesized successfully, and the type and content of ions in the fluorescent powder could be determined. The fluorescence lifetime, quantum yield, bandgap value, afterglow decay time, and coordinate position in the coherent infrared energy (CIE) diagram of the three best sample groups were then analyzed and compared. Combining the prepared phosphor with ink provides a new idea and method for the field of anti-counterfeiting through screen printing.
Infant Feeding Pattern Clusters Are Associated with Childhood Health Outcomes
Authors: Kim Ju Hee , Lee Eun , Ha Eun Kyo , Lee Gi Chun , Shin Jeewon , Baek Hey-Sung , Choi Sun-Hee , Shin Youn Ho , Han Man Yong
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Feeding behavior habits have a pattern with a certain tendency during infancy. We aimed to identify the associations between feeding patterns in infancy and the subsequent 10-year childhood disease burden. (2) Methods: Data from 236,372 infants were obtained from the national health insurance and screening program records in South Korea. Parent-administered questionnaires during infancy provided details on the feeding type and types/frequency of complementary food for analyzing feeding patterns. The outcomes were all-cause hospitalization and the development of 15 representative childhood diseases until the age of 10 years. Anthropometric measurements obtained at 6 years of age were analyzed. To estimate outcome risks while considering multiple risk factors, we employed a Cox proportional hazard and modified Poisson regression. (3) Results: Three clusters were identified: high prevalence of breastfeeding with regular exposure to a variety of solid foods (n = 116,372, cluster 1), similar prevalence of breastfeeding and formula feeding with less exposure to solid foods (n = 108,189, cluster 2), and similar prevalence of breastfeeding and formula feeding with the least exposure to solid foods in infancy (n = 11,811, cluster 3). Compared with cluster 1, children in clusters 2 and 3 had increased risks of all-cause hospitalization (hazard ratio (HR), (95% confidence interval (CI)), 1.04 (1.03–1.06) and 1.08 (1.05–1.11), respectively). Children in clusters 2 and 3 had an increased risk of upper respiratory infection, pneumonia, and gastroenteritis, as well as neurobehavioral diseases. Overweight/obesity at the age of 6 years was associated with clusters 2 and 3. (4) Conclusions: Feeding patterns in infancy were associated with an increased risk of childhood disease burden.
Sex-Specific Differences in Left Ventricular Mass and Volumes with Body Mass Index among Children Aged 6 to 8: A Cross-Sectional Study in China
Authors: Xiao Huidi , Shu Wen , Li Menglong , Xu Liyuan , Amaerjiang Nubiya , Zunong Jiawulan , Vermund Sten H. , Huang Dayong , Chong Mei , Hu Yifei
Published: July 2023

Few studies have examined the sex differences in left ventricle (LV) structure and physiology from early life stages. We aimed to assess the role of sex and overweight/obesity on left ventricular mass (LVM) and LV volume in Chinese children without preexisting cardiovascular risk factors. We selected 934 healthy children aged 6–8 years from an existing cohort in Beijing, China. Linear regression models were used to regress body mass index (BMI), fat mass, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, and visceral fat area (VFA) with LVM, left ventricle end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and end-systolic volume (LVESV). Higher BMI, fat mass, waist circumference, VFA, and stroke volume (SV) predicted higher LVM, LVEDV, and LVESV in both sexes. Multivariable analysis showed that boys with an elevated BMI had greater LV hypertrophy. LVEDV and LVESV were higher among boys than among girls and increased with higher BMI in both boys and girls. LVEDV and LVESV were associated with VFA in boys. We observed sex differences in LVM, LVESV, and LVEDV among prepubertal children, independent of obesity, with higher values observed in boys. Sex differences in cardiac structure in children may help explain the higher incidence of cardiovascular disease in male adults. Whether interventions to reduce childhood obesity can improve the trajectory of cardiac dynamics is worth investigating.
Ketogenic-Mimicking Diet as a Therapeutic Modality for Bipolar Disorder: Biomechanistic Rationale and Protocol for a Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Bohnen Jeffrey L. B. , Wigstrom Travis P. , Griggs Alexis M. , Roytman Stiven , Paalanen Rebecca R. , Andrews Hailemicael A. , Bohnen Nicolaas I. , Franklin Jacob J. H. , McInnis Melvin G.
Published: July 2023

There is growing interest in the investigation of ketogenic diets as a potential therapy for bipolar disorder. The overlapping pharmacotherapies utilized for both bipolar disorder and seizures suggest that a mechanistic overlap may exist between these conditions, with fasting and the ketogenic diet representing the most time-proven therapies for seizure control. Recently, preliminary evidence has begun to emerge supporting a potential role for ketogenic diets in treating bipolar disorder. Notably, some patients may struggle to initiate a strict diet in the midst of a mood episode or significant life stressors. The key question addressed by this pilot clinical trial protocol is if benefits can be achieved with a less restrictive diet, as this would allow such an intervention to be accessible for more patients. Recent development of so-called ketone esters, that once ingested is converted to natural ketone bodies, combined with low glycemic index dietary changes has the potential to mimic two foundational components of therapeutic ketosis: high levels of ketones and minimal spiking of glucose/insulin. This pilot clinical trial protocol thus aims to investigate the effect of a ‘ketogenic-mimicking diet’ (combining supplementation of ketone esters with a low glycemic index dietary intervention) on neural network stability, mood, and biomarker outcomes in the setting of bipolar disorder. Positive findings obtained via this pilot clinical trial protocol may support future target engagement studies of ketogenic-mimicking diets or related ketogenic interventions. A lack of positive findings, in contrast, may justify a focus on more strict dietary interventions for future research.
Effects of Insect Consumption on Human Health: A Systematic Review of Human Studies
Authors: Cunha Nair , Andrade Vanda , Ruivo Paula , Pinto Paula
Published: July 2023

Insects have been consumed as food in diverse cultures worldwide, gaining recognition as a sustainable and nutritious food source. This systematic review aims to update information on the impact of insect consumption on human health based on human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and allergenicity assessment studies. Following PRISMA guidelines, studies published in the last 10 years were analyzed. From one-thousand and sixty-three retrieved references, nine RCTs and five allergenicity studies were analyzed. Post-prandial amino acid levels increased after insect protein consumption. In comparison with other protein sources, insect protein showed no significant differences in the area under the curve (AUC) values for essential amino acids but tended to have lower peaks and peak later. In terms of muscle protein synthesis, there were no significant differences between insect protein and other protein sources. Glucose levels did not differ; however, insulin levels were lower after the consumption of insect-based products. The effects on inflammatory markers and microbiota composition were inconclusive and the studies did not show significant effects on appetite regulation. Allergenicity assessments revealed a sensitisation and cross-reactivity between insect allergens and known allergens. A partial reduction of cross-allergenicity was observed via thermal processing. Insect protein is an adequate protein source with promising health benefits; however, further research is needed to fully understand its potential and optimise its inclusion into the human diet.
Severity of Inflammation Is Associated with Food Intake in Hospitalized Geriatric Patients—A Merged Data Analysis
Authors: Pourhassan Maryam , Cederholm Tommy , Donini Lorenzo M. , Poggiogalle Eleonora , Schwab Ursula , Nielsen Rikke Lundsgaard , Andersen Aino Leegaard , Małgorzewicz Sylwia , Volkert Dorothee , Wirth Rainer
Published: July 2023

The extent to which inflammation impacts food intake remains unclear, serving as a key risk factor for malnutrition as defined by the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM). To address this, we analyzed a large, merged dataset of geriatric hospitalized patients across Europe. The study included 1650 consecutive patients aged ≥65 year from Germany, Italy, Finland, Denmark, and Poland. Nutritional intake was assessed using the first item of the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form; C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured using standard procedures. In total (age 79.6 ± 7.4 year, 1047 females), 23% exhibited moderate to severe inflammation, and 12% showed severe inflammation; 35% showed moderate reductions in food intake, and 28% were considered malnourished. Median CRP levels differed significantly between patients with severe, moderate, and no decrease in food intake. Among patients with a CRP level of 3.0–4.99 mg/dL, 19% experienced a severe decrease in food intake, while 66% experienced moderate to severe decreases. Regression analysis revealed that inflammation was the most prominent risk factor for low food intake and malnutrition, surpassing other factors such as age, gender, infection, and comorbidity. A CRP level of ≥3.0 mg/dL is associated with reduced food intake during last 3 months in two thirds of hospitalized geriatric patients and therefore indicative for a high risk of malnutrition.
Association of Metformin Use with Iron Deficiency Anemia in Urban Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wu Junhui , Yang Ruotong , Yu Huan , Qin Xueying , Wu Tao , Wu Yiqun , Hu Yonghua
Published: July 2023

Background: Previous evidence yielded contradictory findings on the relationship between metformin and anemia. This study aims to assess whether metformin use is associated with iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) risk in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Beijing, China. Methods: Overall, 60,327 newly diagnosed T2D patients were included based on a historical cohort study design. The information pertaining to these patients was gathered from the Beijing Medical Claim Data for Employees Database. These patients were then categorized into the metformin and non-metformin groups and matched on a 1:1 propensity score based on their initial antidiabetic prescription. The Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to calculate the incidences and the hazard ratios (HRs). Results: The study enrolled 27,960 patients with type 2 diabetes, with 13,980 patients in each of the initial glucose-lowering prescription groups: metformin and non-metformin. During a median follow-up period of 4.84 years, 4832 patients developed IDA. The incidence of IDA was significantly lower in the metformin group (26.08/1000 person-years) than in the non-metformin group (43.20/1000 person-years). Among the three groups divided by the proportion of days covered by metformin, we found a negative correlation between the proportion of days covered by metformin and the risk of IDA. The risk of IDA in patients with a proportion of days covered by metformin of <20%, 20–79%, and ≥80% was 0.43 (0.38, 0.48), 0.37 (0.34, 0.42), and 0.91 (0.85, 0.98), respectively, compared to the non-metformin group. We also performed subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses: the incidence of IDA in the metformin group was lower than that in the non-metformin group in all subgroups, and the protective effect was more significant in subgroups of patients aged ≥65, with Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) ≥2, and with gastric acid inhibitor use. Conclusions: In Chinese patients with T2DM, metformin treatment was associated with a decreased risk of IDA admission, and this risk responded positively to the proportion of days covered by metformin. These findings suggest that metformin may have a pleiotropic effect on IDA in patients with type 2 diabetes. Our study has important clinical implications for the management of patients with diabetes and other conditions that increase the risk of IDA.
Helminths in Invasive Raccoons (Procyon lotor) from Southwest Germany
Authors: Reinhardt Nico P. , Wassermann Marion , Härle Jessica , Romig Thomas , Kurzrock Lina , Arnold Janosch , Großmann Ernst , Mackenstedt Ute , Straubinger Reinhard K.
Published: July 2023

As hosts of numerous zoonotic pathogens, the role of raccoons needs to be considered in the One Health context. Raccoons progressively expand their range as invasive alien species in Europe. This study aimed to investigate the intestinal helminth fauna of raccoons in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, as no such screening had ever been conducted there. In total, we obtained 102 animals from hunters in 2019 and 2020. Intestinal helminths were retrieved using the SSCT (segmented sedimentation and counting technique) and identified morphologically and by PCR-based Sanger sequencing. Fecal samples were assessed using the ELISA PetChekTM IP assay (IDEXX, Germany) and flotation technique. The artificial digestion method was employed for analyzing muscle tissue. We detected species of four nematode genera (Baylisascaris procyonis, Toxocara canis, Capillaria spp., and Trichuris spp.), three cestode genera (Atriotaenia cf. incisa/procyonis, Taenia martis, and Mesocestoides spp.), and three trematode genera (Isthmiophora hortensis/melis, Plagiorchis muris, and Brachylaima spp.). Echinococcus spp. and Trichinella spp. were not found. The invasive behavior and synanthropic habits of raccoons may increase the infection risk with these helminths in wildlife, domestic and zoo animals, and humans by serving as a connecting link. Therefore, it is crucial to initiate additional studies assessing these risks.
Antiarrhythmic Sotalol, Occlusion/Occlusion-like Syndrome in Rats, and Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 Therapy
Authors: Premuzic Mestrovic Ivica , Smoday Ivan Maria , Kalogjera Luka , Krezic Ivan , Zizek Helena , Vranes Hrvoje , Vukovic Vlasta , Oroz Katarina , Skorak Ivan , Brizic Ivan , Hriberski Klaudija , Novosel Luka , Kavelj Ivana , Barisic Ivan , Beketic Oreskovic Lidija , Zubcic Slavica , Strbe Sanja , Mestrovic Tomislav , Pavic Predrag , Staresinic Mario , Skrtic Anita , Boban Blagaic Alenka , Seiwerth Sven , Sikiric Predrag
Published: July 2023

We focused on the first demonstration that antiarrhythmics, particularly class II and class III antiarrhythmic and beta-blocker sotalol can induce severe occlusion/occlusion-like syndrome in rats. In this syndrome, as in similar syndromes with permanent occlusion of major vessels, peripheral and central, and other similar noxious procedures that severely disable endothelium function, the stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157-collateral pathways activation, was a resolving therapy. After a high dose of sotalol (80 mg/kg intragastrically) in 180 min study, there were cause-consequence lesions in the brain (swelling, intracerebral hemorrhage), congestion in the heart, lung, liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract, severe bradycardia, and intracranial (superior sagittal sinus), portal and caval hypertension, and aortal hypotension, and widespread thrombosis, peripherally and centrally. Major vessels failed (congested inferior caval and superior mesenteric vein, collapsed azygos vein). BPC 157 therapy (10 µg, 10 ng/kg given intragastrically at 5 min or 90 min sotalol-time) effectively counteracted sotalol-occlusion/occlusion-like syndrome. In particular, eliminated were heart dilatation, and myocardial congestion affecting coronary veins and arteries, as well as myocardial vessels; eliminated were portal and caval hypertension, lung parenchyma congestion, venous and arterial thrombosis, attenuated aortal hypotension, and centrally, attenuated intracranial (superior sagittal sinus) hypertension, brain lesions and pronounced intracerebral hemorrhage. Further, BPC 157 eliminated and/or markedly attenuated liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract congestion and major veins congestion. Therefore, azygos vein activation and direct blood delivery were essential for particular BPC 157 effects. Thus, preventing such and similar events, and responding adequately when that event is at risk, strongly advocates for further BPC 157 therapy.
Role of Galectin in Cardiovascular Conditions including Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Liu Hongqun , Hwang Sang-Youn , Lee Samuel S.
Published: July 2023

Abnormal cardiac function in the setting of cirrhosis and in the absence of a primary cardiac disease is known as cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The pathogenesis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is multifactorial but broadly is comprised of two pathways. The first is due to cirrhosis and synthetic liver failure with abnormal structure and function of many substances, including proteins, lipids, hormones, and carbohydrates such as lectins. The second is due to portal hypertension which invariably accompanies cirrhosis. Portal hypertension leads to a leaky, congested gut with resultant endotoxemia and systemic inflammation. This inflammatory phenotype comprises oxidative stress, cellular apoptosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Galectins exert all these pro-inflammatory mechanisms across many different tissues and organs, including the heart. Effective therapies for improving cardiac function in patients with cirrhosis are not available. Conventional strategies for other noncirrhotic heart diseases, including vasodilators, are not feasible because of the significant baseline vasodilation in cirrhotic patients. Therefore, exploring new treatment modalities for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is of great importance. Galectin-3 inhibitors such as modified citrus pectin, N-acetyllactosamine, TD139 and GB0139 exert anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects and thus have potential therapeutic interest. This review briefly summarizes the physiological and pathophysiological role of galectin and specifically examines its role in cardiac disease processes. We present a more detailed discussion of galectin in cardiovascular complications of cirrhosis, particularly cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Finally, therapeutic studies of galectin-3 inhibitors in cirrhotic cardiomyopathy are reviewed.
Results of Induction of Labor with Prostaglandins E1 and E2 (The RIPE Study): A Real-World Data Analysis of Obstetrical Effectiveness and Clinical Outcomes of Pharmacological Induction of Labor with Vaginal Inserts
Authors: Socha Maciej W. , Flis Wojciech , Pietrus Miłosz , Wartęga Mateusz
Published: July 2023

Despite extensive knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for childbirth, the course of labor induction is often unpredictable. Therefore, labor induction protocols using prostaglandin analogs have been developed and tested to assess their effectiveness in labor induction unequivocally. A total of 402 women were collected into two groups—receiving vaginal Misoprostol or vaginal Dinoprostone for induction of labor (IOL). Then, the patients were compared in groups depending on the agent they received and their gestational age. Most patients delivered within 48 h, and most of these patients had vaginal parturition. Patients who received the Dinoprostone vaginal insert required statistically significantly more oxytocin administration than patients who received the Misoprostol vaginal insert. Patients who received the Misoprostol vaginal insert used anesthesia during labor statistically more often. Patients who received Misoprostol vaginal inserts had a statistically significantly shorter time to delivery than those with Dinoprostone vaginal inserts. The prevalence of hyperstimulation was similar in all groups and remained low. Vaginal Misoprostol-based IOL is characterized by a shortened time to delivery irrespective of the parturition type, and a lower need for oxytocin augmentation, but also by an increased demand for intrapartum analgesia administration. A vaginal Dinoprostone-based IOL protocol might be considered a more harmonious and desirable option in modern perinatal care.
Projection of Target Drug Particle Size in Oral Formulations Using the Refined Developability Classification System (rDCS)
Authors: Beran Kristian , Hermans Eline , Holm René , Sepassi Kia , Dressman Jennifer
Published: July 2023

Dissolution limitations to oral absorption can occur if the time required for dissolution is longer than the transit time across the small intestine and/or if dissolution is slower than the drug’s permeation through the gut wall. These limitations most often occur for poorly soluble drugs. A standard method for overcoming dissolution issues is to reduce the particle size of the (solid) drug. Building on the refined Developability Classification System (rDCS), this work establishes a novel set of equations with which the appropriate degree of particle size reduction needed to mitigate dissolution limitations to absorption can be calculated. According to the type of data available, the appropriate equation(s) for each situation can be applied. Three case examples are used to illustrate implementation of the equations: voriconazole, lemborexant and istradefylline. Although for voriconazole (rDCS Class I) target radius (rtarget) estimates indicate that particle size reduction is unnecessary, for lemborexant (rDCS Class I) a radius of ≤20 µm would be required to improve absorption. For istradefylline (rDCS Class IIb) the rtarget was approximately 12 µm. Results are commensurate with literature information for these three drugs, signaling that the equations are suitable for application to a wide variety of drug substances.
Mode Selection Method in Spherical Optical Cavities with Thin Metal Film
Authors: Terentyev Vadim , Simonov Victor
Published: July 2023

A new method for the selection of the radial modes of a spherical microresonator by the quality factor, based on the effect of absorption in a thin metal film deposited on a sphere together with a dielectric layer, is proposed. The method was proved by numerical simulation on the example of the second and third radial modes TEl,l,q, l = 455, q = 2, 3 selection in 80 μm radius quartz microsphere with 5 nm thick nickel film. The structure of the metal-dielectric coating was determined using analytical formulas in such a way that the metal film was placed at the node of the selected mode E-field distribution. The finite element method was used to refine the calculation, optimizing the position of the film in terms of obtaining the maximum quality factor. As a result, it was shown that the selected mode could have a relatively high quality factor (Q~107), while the other radial modes are significantly suppressed (Q~103). In addition, it is shown that selection is carried out by the mode index number (l) simultaneously with selection by the radial index.
Direct Femtosecond Laser Processing for Generating High Spatial Frequency LIPSS (HSFL) on Borosilicate Glasses with Large-Area Coverage
Authors: Rajendran Rajeev , Krishnadev E. R. , Anoop K. K.
Published: July 2023

Large-area nanostructuring of glasses using intense laser beams is a challenging task due to the material’s extreme non-linear absorption of laser energy. Precise optimization of the process parameters is essential for fabricating nanostructures with large-area coverage. In this study, we report the findings on creating high-spatial-frequency LIPSS (HSFL) on borosilicate glass through direct laser writing, using a femtosecond laser with a wavelength λ = 800 nm, pulse duration τ = 35 fs, and repetition frequency frep = 1 kHz. We measured the single-pulse ablation threshold and incubation factor of Borosilicate glasses to achieve high-precision control of the large-area surface structuring. Single-spot experiments indicated that, when there was higher fluence and a larger number of irradiated laser pulses, a melt formation inside the irradiated area limited the uniformity of LIPSS formation. Additionally, the orientation of the scan axis with the laser beam polarization was found to significantly influence the uniformity of LIPSS generated along the scan line, with more redeposition and melt formation when the scan axis was perpendicular to the laser beam polarization. For large-area processing, the borosilicate glass surface was scanned line-by-line by the laser beam, with a scan orientation parallel to the polarization of the laser. The optical characterization revealed that the transmittance and reflectance of the borosilicate glass decreased significantly after processing. Additionally, the surface’s wettability changed from hydrophilic to super-hydrophilic after processing. These chemical contamination-free and uniformly distributed structures have potential applications in optics, microfluidics, photovoltaics, and biomaterials.
Micromagnetic Approach to the Metastability of a Magnetite Nanoparticle and Specific Loss Power as Function of the Easy-Axis Orientation
Authors: Roa Nathaly , Restrepo Johans
Published: July 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted a great interest in nanomedical research. MNPs exhibit many important properties. In particular, magnetic hyperthermia for selective killing of cancer cells is one of them. In hyperthermia treatment, MNPs act as nano-heaters when they are under the influence of an alternating magnetic field (AMF). In this work, micromagnetic simulations have been used to investigate the magnetization dynamics of a single-domain nanoparticle of magnetite in an external AMF. Special attention is paid to the circumstances dealing with a dynamic phase transition (DPT). Moreover, we focus on the influence of the orientation of the magnetic easy-axis of the MNP on the dynamic magnetic properties. For amplitudes of the external AMF above a certain critical value, the system is not able to follow the magnetic field and it is found in a dynamically ordered phase, whereas for larger amplitudes, the state corresponds to a dynamically disordered phase and the magnetization follows the external AMF. Our results suggest that the way the order-disorder DPT takes place and both the metastable lifetime as well as the specific loss power (SLP) are strongly dependent on the interplay between the orientation of the magnetic easy-axis and the amplitude of the external AMF.