bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biocompatibility, Surface Morphology, and Bacterial Load of Dental Implant Abutments following Decontamination Protocols: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Sharon Esi , Pietrokovski Yoav , Engel Ilana , Assali Rula , Houri-Haddad Yael , Beyth Nurit
Published: May 2023

The long-term success of dental implant rehabilitation depends significantly on proper peri-implant soft tissue integration. Therefore, decontamination of abutments prior to their connection to the implant is beneficial to enhance soft tissue attachment and to aid in maintaining marginal bone around the implant. Consequently, different implant abutment decontamination protocols were evaluated regarding biocompatibility, surface morphology, and bacterial load. The protocols evaluated were autoclave sterilization, ultrasonic washing, steam cleaning, chlorhexidine chemical decontamination, and sodium hypochlorite chemical decontamination. The control groups included: (1) implant abutments prepared and polished in a dental lab without decontamination and (2) unprepared implant abutments obtained directly from the company. Surface analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Biocompatibility was evaluated using XTT cell viability and proliferation assays. Biofilm biomass and viable counts (CFU/mL) (n = 5 for each test) were used for surface bacterial load evaluation. Surface analysis revealed areas of debris and accumulation of materials, such as iron, cobalt, chromium, and other metals, in all abutments prepared by the lab and with all decontamination protocols. Steam cleaning was the most efficient method for reducing contamination. Chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite left residual materials on the abutments. XTT results showed that the chlorhexidine group (M = 0.7005, SD = 0.2995) had the lowest values (p < 0.001) (autoclave: M = 3.6354, SD = 0.1510; ultrasonic: M = 3.4077, SD = 0.3730; steam: M = 3.2903, SD = 0.2172; NaOCl: M = 3.5377, SD = 0.0927; prep non-decont.: M = 3.4815, SD = 0.2326; factory: M = 3.6173, SD = 0.0392). Bacterial growth (CFU/mL) was high in the abutments treated with steam cleaning and ultrasonic bath: 2.93 × 109, SD = 1.68 × 1012 and 1.83 × 109, SD = 3.95 × 1010, respectively. Abutments treated with chlorhexidine showed higher toxicity to cells, while all other samples showed similar effects to the control. In conclusion, steam cleaning seemed to be the most efficient method for reducing debris and metallic contamination. Bacterial load can be reduced using autoclaving, chlorhexidine, and NaOCl.
Corrosion Behavior of Alumina-Forming Austenitic Steel in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Conditions: Effects of Nb Content and Temperature
Authors: Ma Zhaodandan , Cong Shuo , Chen Huan , Liu Zhu , Dong Yuanyuan , Tang Rui , Qiu Tian , Chen Yong , Guo Xianglong
Published: May 2023

The corrosion behavior of alumina-forming austenitic (AFA) stainless steels with different Nb additions in a supercritical carbon dioxide environment at 500 °C, 600 °C, and 20 MPa was investigated. The steels with low Nb content were found to have a novel structure with a double oxide as an outer Cr2O3 oxide film and an inner Al2O3 oxide layer with discontinuous Fe-rich spinels on the outer surface and a transition layer consisting of Cr spinels and γ’-Ni3Al phases randomly distributed under the oxide layer. Oxidation resistance was improved by accelerating diffusion through refined grain boundaries after the addition of 0.6 wt.% Nb. However, the corrosion resistance decreased significantly at higher Nb content due to the formation of continuous thick outer Fe-rich nodules on the surface and an internal oxide zone, and Fe2(Mo, Nb) laves phases were also detected, which prevented the outward diffusion of Al ions and promoted the formation of cracks within the oxide layer, resulting in unfavorable effects on oxidation. After exposure at 500 °C, fewer spinels and thinner oxide scales were found. The specific mechanism was discussed.
Substitution Effects in Spin-Polarized (Cr4-xFex)0.5AC (A = Ge, Si, Al) MAX Phases
Authors: Fedorova Natalja A. , Kovaleva Alena V. , Olshevskaya Julia S. , Ivanova Daria A. , Kozak Victoria V. , Shubin Alexander A. , Tarasov Anton S. , Varnakov Sergey N. , Ovchinnikov Sergei G. , Moshkina Evgeniya M. , Maximova Olga A. , Avramov Pavel V. , Tomilin Felix N.
Published: May 2023

The use of spintronic devices with a tunable magnetic order on small scales is highly important for novel applications. The MAX phases containing transition metals and/or magnetic ion-substituted lattices attract a lot of attention. In this study, the magnetic and electronic properties of (Cr4-xFex)0.5AC (A = Ge, Si, Al) compounds were predicted and investigated within the density functional theory. It was established that single-substituted (Cr3Fe1)0.5AC (A = Ge, Si, Al) lattices are favorable in terms of energy. An analysis of the magnetic states of the MAX phases demonstrated that their spin order changes upon substitution of iron atoms for chromium ones. It was found that mostly the (Cr4-xFex)0.5GeC and (Cr4-xFex)0.5AlC lattices acquire a ferrimagnetic state in contrast to (Cr4-xFex)0.5SiC for which the ferromagnetic spin order dominates. It was pointed out that the atomic substitution could be an efficient way to tune the magnetic properties of proposed (Cr4-xFex)0.5AC (A = Ge, Si, Al) MAX phases.
Harnack Estimation for Nonlinear, Weighted, Heat-Type Equation along Geometric Flow and Applications
Authors: Li Yanlin , Bhattacharyya Sujit , Azami Shahroud , Saha Apurba , Hui Shyamal Kumar
Published: May 2023

The method of gradient estimation for the heat-type equation using the Harnack quantity is a classical approach used for understanding the nature of the solution of these heat-type equations. Most of the studies in this field involve the Laplace–Beltrami operator, but in our case, we studied the weighted heat equation that involves weighted Laplacian. This produces a number of terms involving the weight function. Thus, in this article, we derive the Harnack estimate for a positive solution of a weighted nonlinear parabolic heat equation on a weighted Riemannian manifold evolving under a geometric flow. Applying this estimation, we derive the Li–Yau-type gradient estimation and Harnack-type inequality for the positive solution. A monotonicity formula for the entropy functional regarding the estimation is derived. We specify our results for various different flows. Our results generalize some works.
Conjugation of Triterpenic Acids of Ursane and Oleanane Types with Mitochondria-Targeting Cation F16 Synergistically Enhanced Their Cytotoxicity against Tumor Cells
Authors: Dubinin Mikhail V. , Nedopekina Darya A. , Ilzorkina Anna I. , Semenova Alena A. , Sharapov Vyacheslav A. , Davletshin Eldar V. , Mikina Natalia V. , Belsky Yuri P. , Spivak Anna Yu. , Akatov Vladimir S. , Belosludtseva Natalia V. , Liu Jiankang , Belosludtsev Konstantin N.
Published: May 2023

The present work shows the cytotoxic effects of novel conjugates of ursolic, oleanolic, maslinic, and corosolic acids with the penetrating cation F16 on cancer cells (lung adenocarcinoma A549 and H1299, breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and BT474) and non-tumor human fibroblasts. It has been established that the conjugates have a significantly enhanced toxicity against tumor-derived cells compared to native acids and also demonstrate selectivity to some cancer cells. The toxic effect of the conjugates is shown to be due to ROS hyperproduction in cells, induced by the effect on mitochondria. The conjugates caused dysfunction of isolated rat liver mitochondria and, in particular, a decrease in the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation, a decrease in the membrane potential, and also an overproduction of ROS by organelles. The paper discusses how the membranotropic- and mitochondria-targeted effects of the conjugates may be related to their toxic effects.
Water and Molecular Exchange in Biological Cells Studied Using 1H Pulsed Field Gradient NMR
Authors: Avilova Irina A. , Volkov Vitaly I.
Published: May 2023

This review presents the results of studies of molecular exchange processes in various biological systems (erythrocytes, yeast, liposomes, etc.) performed using pulsed field gradient NMR (PFG NMR). The main theory of processing necessary for the analysis of experimental data is briefly presented: the extraction of self-diffusion coefficients, calculation of cell sizes, and permeability of cell membranes. Attention is paid to the results of assessing the permeability of biological membranes for water molecules and biologically active compounds. The results for other systems are also presented: yeast, chlorella, and plant cells. The results of studies of the lateral diffusion of lipid and cholesterol molecules in model bilayers are also presented.
Change in the Properties of Rail Steels during Operation and Reutilization of Rails
Authors: Yelemessov Kassym , Baskanbayeva Dinara , Martyushev Nikita V. , Skeeba Vadim Y. , Gozbenko Valeriy E. , Karlina Antonina I.
Published: May 2023

The paper considers the possibility of reusing previously used railway rails. The analysis is conducted using the standards and operating conditions of the rails of one of the Central Asian states, Kazakhstan, as an example. The operation of these rails causes significant stresses, while the surface layers are strengthened as a result of cold hammering. These phenomena significantly change the physical and mechanical characteristics of rails. As a result, they may not be suitable in terms of parameters for basic use but can be suitable for installation on other tracks. The conducted studies have shown that when the standard service life of the RP65 rail expires, the surface layer is deformed to a depth of up to 300 microns, hardness increases, and internal residual stresses are formed. These changes lead to an increase in the strength properties of the rails. However, at the same time, cracks originate in the surface layer of the rail, thus worsening operational characteristics. The RP65 rails are used under a cyclic load of 700 kN (which is determined by the national standard), withstanding 790,000 cycles. When the load is reduced to 510 kN, these rails can withstand the 2,000,000 cycles required by the standard without failure. Thus, these rails can be reutilized only on non-loaded and non-critical sections.
Effects of Perfluorooctanoic Acid on Gut Microbiota and Microbial Metabolites in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Gao Bei , Chen Lixia , Xu Weichen , Shan Jinjun , Shen Weishou , Gao Nan
Published: May 2023

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) represents an increasing public health concern due to its persistence in the environment and its toxic effects. The gut microbiota is known to produce various metabolites that assist the host to maintain metabolic homeostasis. However, few studies have explored the effects of PFOA on gut-microbiota-related metabolites. In the present study, male C57BL/6J mice were exposed to 1 ppm of PFOA in drinking water for four weeks and integrative analysis of the gut microbiome and metabolome was performed to reveal the health effects of PFOA. Our results showed that PFOA disturbed both the gut microbiota composition and the metabolic profiles of the feces, serum, and liver in mice. A correlation was found between Lachnospiraceae UCG004, Turicibacter, Ruminococcaceae, and different fecal metabolites. Significant alterations of gut-microbiota-related metabolites were induced by PFOA exposure, including bile acids and tryptophan metabolites such as 3-indoleacrylic acid and 3-indoleacetic acid. The findings of this study are helpful to improve the understanding of the health effects of PFOA, which might be mediated through the gut microbiota and its related metabolites.
Fatty Acid Metabolites and the Tumor Microenvironment as Potent Regulators of Cancer Stem Cell Signaling
Authors: Murai Toshiyuki , Matsuda Satoru
Published: May 2023

Individual cancer cells are not equal but are organized into a cellular hierarchy in which only a rare few leukemia cells can self-renew in a manner reminiscent of the characteristic stem cell properties. The PI3K/AKT pathway functions in a variety of cancers and plays a critical role in the survival and proliferation of healthy cells under physiologic conditions. In addition, cancer stem cells might exhibit a variety of metabolic reprogramming phenotypes that cannot be completely attributed to the intrinsic heterogeneity of cancer. Given the heterogeneity of cancer stem cells, new strategies with single-cell resolution will become a powerful tool to eradicate the aggressive cell population harboring cancer stem cell phenotypes. Here, this article will provide an overview of the most important signaling pathways of cancer stem cells regarding their relevance to the tumor microenvironment and fatty acid metabolism, suggesting valuable strategies among cancer immunotherapies to inhibit the recurrence of tumors.
Biocontrol and Probiotic Function of Non-Saccharomyces Yeasts: New Insights in Agri-Food Industry
Authors: Comitini Francesca , Canonico Laura , Agarbati Alice , Ciani Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Fermented food matrices, including beverages, can be defined as the result of the activity of complex microbial ecosystems where different microorganisms interact according to different biotic and abiotic factors. Certainly, in industrial production, the technological processes aim to control the fermentation to place safe foods on the market. Therefore, if food safety is the essential prerogative, consumers are increasingly oriented towards a healthy and conscious diet driving the production and consequently the applied research towards natural processes. In this regard, the aim to guarantee the safety, quality and diversity of products should be reached limiting or avoiding the addition of antimicrobials or synthetic additives using the biological approach. In this paper, the recent re-evaluation of non-Saccharomyces yeasts (NSYs) has been reviewed in terms of bio-protectant and biocontrol activity with a particular focus on their antimicrobial power using different application modalities including biopackaging, probiotic features and promoting functional aspects. In this review, the authors underline the contribution of NSYs in the food production chain and their role in the technological and fermentative features for their practical and useful use as a biocontrol agent in food preparations.
Oral Microbiome in Health and Disease: Maintaining a Healthy, Balanced Ecosystem and Reversing Dysbiosis
Authors: Maier Tom
Published: May 2023

The oral microbiome is a complex and dynamic assemblage of microorganisms that normally exist within the mouth, contributing to host health via a number of mechanisms, including exclusion of harmful microbes and immune optimization [...]
Structure Evolution of CaCO3 Precipitates Formed during the Bacillus cereus Induced Biomineralization
Authors: Ivanova Lyubov A. , Golovkina Darya A. , Zhurishkina Elena V. , Gorshkova Yulia E. , Yapryntsev Alexey D. , Baranchikov Alexander E. , Tsvigun Natalia V. , Kopitsa Gennady P. , Kulminskaya Anna A. , Lebedev Dmitry V.
Published: May 2023

Biomineralization is a universal process that has implications in a variety of areas, from civil engineering to medicine. While crystallization of amorphous CaCO3 formed in vitro is known to precede the vaterite-calcite/aragonite pathway, this process could be significantly altered when induced by bacteria, particularly within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of microbial cells. We used a combination of SEM, SANS, SAXS, FTIR and XRD methods to investigate the structure of CaCO3 formed during biomineralization induced by planktonic Bacillus cereus. Formation of precipitates in the presence of CaCl2 and urea was observed both during bacterial growth and in the medium devoid of bacteria and ECM (cell-free system). The pathway for polymorphic transformations of CaCO3 from the amorphous phase to vaterite and further to calcite was confirmed for the bacterium-induced mineralization and did not depend on the concentration of Ca2+ and urea. The structure of CaCO3 sediments differed when formed in cell-free and bacterial systems and varied depending on time and the medium composition. The rate of precipitation was accelerated in the presence of DNA, which had little effect on the solid phase structure in the cell-free system, while strongly affecting the structure and polymorphic composition of the precipitates in bacterial culture.
The Caudofoveata (Mollusca) Spicule as a Biomineralization Model: Unique Features Revealed by Combined Microscopy Methods
Authors: Wendt Camila , Rossi André L. , Cypriano Jefferson , Dilnei de Castro Oliveira Cleo , Arrouvel Corinne , Werckmann Jacques , Farina Marcos
Published: May 2023

Caudofoveates are benthic organisms that reside in the deep waters of continental slopes in the world. They are considered to be a group that is of phylogenetic and ecological importance for the phylum Mollusca. However, they remain poorly studied. In this work, we revealed the structure of the spicules of Caudofoveatan mollusks Falcidens sp. The spicules presented a hierarchical organization pattern across different length scales. Various imaging and analytical methods related to light and electron microscopy were employed to characterize the samples. The primary imaging methods utilized included: low voltage field emission scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electron diffraction. In addition, we performed a physicochemical analysis by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). A crucial factor for successfully obtaining the results was the preparation of lamellae from the spicules without damaging the original structures, achieved using FIB-SEM. This allowed us to obtain diffraction patterns of significant areas of well-preserved sections (lamellae) of the spicules in specific directions and demonstrate for the first time that the bulk of these structures is organized as a single crystal of calcium carbonate aragonite. On the other hand, AFM imaging of the spicules’ dorsal surface revealed a wavy appearance, composed of myriads of small, pointed crystallites oriented along the spicules’ longer axis (i.e., the c-axis of the aragonite). The organization pattern of these small crystallites, the possible presence of twins, the relationship between confinement conditions and accessory ions in the preference for mineral polymorphs, and the single crystalline appearance of the entire spicule, along with the observation of growth lines, provide support for further studies employing Caudofoveata spicules as a model for biomineralization studies.
Geochemistry and Petrology of the Bellecombe Lava Sequence, Enclos Fouqué Caldera, Piton de la Fournaise Volcano (Réunion, France)
Authors: Lanzafame Gabriele , Bolam Alexander , Di Muro Andrea , Portale Silvia , Donato Sandro , Besson Pascale , Ferlito Carmelo
Published: May 2023

Piton de la Fournaise is an active shield volcano located in the eastern area of the Réunion Island (Indian Ocean) whose activity is characterized by effusive and explosive episodes with the emission of scarcely differentiated magmas with mostly tholeiitic affinity. The presently active edifice has grown within the Enclos Fouqué caldera, a polylobate plain bounded on its western side by the 80–200 m high Bellecombe vertical cliffs. This escarpment exposes a vertical sequence of 12 lava flows cut by a dike with an age > 5.5 kyrs. In this work, the Bellecombe products were investigated by X-ray fluorescence, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy, a Scanning Electron Microscope and X-ray computed microtomography in order to characterize the evolution over time of the magmatic system feeding the eruptive activity prior to the Enclos Fouqué caldera collapse. The results indicate that lava flows share a geochemical affinity with the two main series documented at Piton de la Fournaise, namely, Steady State Basalts (SSB) at the bottom and top of the sequence and Abnormal basalt Group (AbG) with different degrees of differentiation in the central part. The emission of these two different products in both a restricted area and timespan testifies to the dynamic activity of the plumbing system, capable of shifting rapidly from central to eccentric activity in the recent past.
New Functions of Intracellular LOXL2: Modulation of RNA-Binding Proteins
Authors: Eraso Pilar , Mazón María J. , Jiménez Victoria , Pizarro-García Patricia , Cuevas Eva P. , Majuelos-Melguizo Jara , Morillo-Bernal Jesús , Cano Amparo , Portillo Francisco
Published: May 2023

Lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) was initially described as an extracellular enzyme involved in extracellular matrix remodeling. Nevertheless, numerous recent reports have implicated intracellular LOXL2 in a wide variety of processes that impact on gene transcription, development, differentiation, proliferation, migration, cell adhesion, and angiogenesis, suggesting multiple different functions for this protein. In addition, increasing knowledge about LOXL2 points to a role in several types of human cancer. Moreover, LOXL2 is able to induce the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process—the first step in the metastatic cascade. To uncover the underlying mechanisms of the great variety of functions of intracellular LOXL2, we carried out an analysis of LOXL2’s nuclear interactome. This study reveals the interaction of LOXL2 with numerous RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) involved in several aspects of RNA metabolism. Gene expression profile analysis of cells silenced for LOXL2, combined with in silico identification of RBPs’ targets, points to six RBPs as candidates to be substrates of LOXL2’s action, and that deserve a more mechanistic analysis in the future. The results presented here allow us to hypothesize novel LOXL2 functions that might help to comprehend its multifaceted role in the tumorigenic process.
Structure–Activity Relationships in NHC–Silver Complexes as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Ronga Luisa , Varcamonti Mario , Tesauro Diego
Published: May 2023

Silver has a long history of antimicrobial activity and received an increasing interest in last decades owing to the rise in antimicrobial resistance. The major drawback is the limited duration of its antimicrobial activity. The broad-spectrum silver containing antimicrobial agents are well represented by N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) silver complexes. Due to their stability, this class of complexes can release the active Ag+ cations in prolonged time. Moreover, the properties of NHC can be tuned introducing alkyl moieties on N-heterocycle to provide a range of versatile structures with different stability and lipophilicity. This review presents designed Ag complexes and their biological activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungal strains. In particular, the structure–activity relationships underlining the major requirements to increase the capability to induce microorganism death are highlighted here. Moreover, some examples of encapsulation of silver–NHC complexes in polymer-based supramolecular aggregates are reported. The targeted delivery of silver complexes to the infected sites will be the most promising goal for the future.
Special Issue—“Bioactive Compounds from Natural Sources II”
Authors: Sytar Oksana , Smetanska Iryna
Published: May 2023

In recent decades, there has been a great interest in bioactive compounds from natural sources [...]
Pterospartum tridentatum Liqueur Using Spirits Aged with Almond Shells: Chemical Characterization and Phenolic Profile
Authors: Garcia Cátia , Dias Maria Inês , Henriques Marta H. F. , Barros Lillian , Ramos Fernando
Published: May 2023

With great cultural significance, spirits and distillate beverages constitute an important niche market in Europe. The development of new food products, particularly for the functionalization of these beverages, is increasing exponentially. The present work aimed to develop a new wine spirit beverage aged with almond shells and flowers of P. tridentatum for further characterization of bioactive and phenolic compounds, coupled with a sensorial study to evaluate the acceptance of this new product by the market. Twenty-one phenolic compounds were identified, mainly isoflavonoids and O- and C-glycosylated flavonoids, especially in P. tridentatum flowers, indicating that it is a highly aromatizing agent. The developed liqueur and wine spirits (almonds and flowers) showed distinct physicochemical properties, with the last two samples showing greater appreciation and purchase intention by consumers due to their sweetness and smoothness. The most promising results were found for the carqueja flower, which should be further investigated in an industrial context to contribute to its valorization in its regions of origin, such as Beira Interior and Trás-os-Montes (Portugal).
One-Step Electrochemical Dealloying of 3D Bi-Continuous Micro-Nanoporous Bismuth Electrodes and CO2RR Performance
Authors: Lai Wenqin , Liu Yating , Zeng Mingming , Han Dongmei , Xiao Min , Wang Shuanjin , Ren Shan , Meng Yuezhong
Published: May 2023

The rapid development of electrochemical CO2 reduction offers a promising route to convert intermittent renewable energy into products of high value-added fuels or chemical feedstocks. However, low faradaic efficiency, low current density, and a narrow potential range still limit the large-scale application of CO2RR electrocatalysts. Herein, monolith 3D bi-continuous nanoporous bismuth (np-Bi) electrodes are fabricated via a simple one-step electrochemical dealloying strategy from Pb-Bi binary alloy. The unique bi-continuous porous structure ensures highly effective charge transfer; meanwhile, the controllable millimeter-sized geometric porous structure enables easy catalyst adjustment to expose highly suitable surface curvatures with abundant reactive sites. This results in a high selectivity of 92.6% and superior potential window (400 mV, selectivity > 88%) for the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to formate. Our scalable strategy provides a feasible pathway for mass-producing high-performance and versatile CO2 electrocatalysts.
Human Milk Oligosaccharide Profile across Lactation Stages in Israeli Women—A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Asher Adi Talan , Mangel Laurence , Ari Julius Ben , Gover Ofer , Ahmad Wiessam Abu , Herzlich Jacky , Mandel Dror , Schwartz Betty , Lubetzky Ronit
Published: May 2023

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) stimulate the growth of gut commensals, prevent the adhesion of enteropathogens and modulate host immunity. The major factors influencing variations in the HMO profile are polymorphisms in the secretor (Se) or Lewis (Le) gene, which affect the activity of the enzymes fucoslytransferase 2 and 3 (FUT2 and FUT3) that lead to the formation of four major fucosylated and non-fucosylated oligosaccharides (OS). This pilot study aimed to determine the HMO profile of Israeli breastfeeding mothers of 16 term and 4 preterm infants, from a single tertiary center in the Tel Aviv area. Fifty-two human milk samples were collected from 20 mothers at three-time points: colostrum, transitional milk and mature milk. The concentrations of nine HMOs were assessed using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectra chromatograms. Fifty-five percent of the mothers were secretors and 45% were non-secretors. Infant sex affected HMO levels depending on the maternal secretor status. Secretor mothers to boys had higher levels of FUT2-dependent OS and higher levels of disialyllacto-N-tetraose in the milk of mothers to girls, whereas non-secretor mothers to girls had higher levels of 3′-sialyllactose. In addition, the season at which the human milk samples were obtained affected the levels of some HMOs, resulting in significantly lower levels in the summer. Our findings provide novel information on the irregularity in the HMO profile among Israeli lactating women and identify several factors contributing to this variability.
Nutrition and Metabolism in the First 1000 Days of Life
Authors: Zhou Yalin , Xu Yajun
Published: May 2023

The first 1000 days of life are a critical window period for rapid growth and development during which individuals are more sensitive to the stimulation of environmental factors [...]
Dietary Influence on Nutritional Epidemiology, Public Health and Our Lifestyle
Authors: Varela Lourdes M.
Published: May 2023

This Special Issue of Nutrients “Dietary Influence on Nutritional Epidemiology, Public Health and Our Lifestyle”, includes nine original articles and one systematic review related to the associations between some dietary patterns, lifestyle, and socio-demographic factors, analyzed either separately or in combination, with the risk and management of cardiovascular diseases and mental health problems, such as depression and dementia [...]
Relation of Overweight/Obesity to Reward Region Response to Food Reward and the Moderating Effects of Parental History of Eating Pathology in Adolescent Females
Authors: Yokum Sonja , Stice Eric
Published: May 2023

Objective: To test whether overweight/obesity is associated with an elevated reward region response to milkshake cues and a low reward region response to milkshake receipt. To test whether the risk for eating pathology moderates the effects of weight status on the neural response to milkshake cues and milkshake receipt. Method: The current study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine the neuronal responses of female adolescents (n = 80; M age = 14.6 ± 0.9; M BMI = 21.9 ± 3.6; 41% with a biological parental history of eating pathology) during a food receipt paradigm. Results: Females with overweight/obesity showed a greater ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), and ventral anterior cingulate (ACC) response to milkshake cues and a greater ventral striatum, subgenual ACC, and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex response to milkshake receipt than those with a healthy weight. Females with overweight/obesity plus a parental history of eating pathology showed a greater vmPFC/medial orbitofrontal cortex response to milkshake cues than those without a parental history of eating pathology and those with a healthy weight. Females with overweight/obesity and without a parental history of eating pathology showed a greater thalamus and striatum response to milkshake receipt. Conclusions: Overweight/obesity is associated with an elevated reward region response to palatable food cues and food receipt. A risk for eating pathology enhances the reward region response to food cues in those with excess weight.
Combination of Taurine and Black Pepper Extract as a Treatment for Cardiovascular and Coronary Artery Diseases
Authors: Swiderski Jordan , Sakkal Samy , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Zulli Anthony , Gadanec Laura Kate
Published: May 2023

The shift in modern dietary regimens to “Western style” and sedentary lifestyles are believed to be partly responsible for the increase in the global burden of cardiovascular diseases. Natural products have been used throughout human history as treatments for a plethora of pathological conditions. Taurine and, more recently, black pepper have gained attention for their beneficial health effects while remaining non-toxic even when ingested in excess. Taurine, black pepper, and the major terpene constituents found in black pepper (i.e., β-caryophyllene; α-pinene; β-pinene; α-humulene; limonene; and sabinene) that are present in PhytoCann BP® have been shown to have cardioprotective effects based on anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms. This comprehensive review of the literature focuses on determining whether the combination of taurine and black pepper extract is an effective natural treatment for reducing cardiovascular diseases risk factors (i.e., hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia) and for driving anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms to combat coronary artery disease, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and atherosclerotic disease.
Modulating Effects of Zingiberaceae Phenolic Compounds on Neurotrophic Factors and Their Potential as Neuroprotectants in Brain Disorders and Age-Associated Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Review
Authors: Razak Azraul Mumtazah , Tan Jen Kit , Mohd Said Mazlina Mohd , Makpol Suzana
Published: May 2023

The Zingiberaceae family possess various phenolic compounds that have significant systemic bioactivities in the brain, including in age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Neurotrophins are growth factors that protect neurons from oxidative stress, and dysregulation of the neurotrophic system may result in neurocognitive disease. Phenolic compounds from the Zingiberaceae family have been used in traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) to improve cognitive functions. These compounds may affect the expression of neurotrophic agents, but their underlying molecular mechanisms require further investigation. Therefore, the goal of this review is to determine the expression and functional roles of phenolic compounds from the Zingiberaceae family in brain disorders and age-related neurodegenerative disorders. While previous studies have proposed various mechanisms for the neuroprotective activity of these compounds, their precise mechanism of action remains complex and poorly understood. Despite some promising findings, there are still shortcomings in the therapeutic use of these herbs, and current interventions involving the Zingiberaceae family appear to be clinically insufficient. This article aims to summarize recent discoveries of phenolic compounds from several Zingiberaceae family members and their use as neuroprotectants and provide the first review of evidence-linked neuroprotective activity of bioactive ingredients from prominent members of the Zingiberaceae family.
The Gut Microbiome in Early Life Stress: A Systematic Review
Authors: Agusti Ana , Lamers Femke , Tamayo Maria , Benito-Amat Carlos , Molina-Mendoza Gara V. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Sanz Yolanda
Published: May 2023

Exposure to early life stress (ELS), prenatal or postnatal during childhood and adolescence, can significantly impact mental and physical health. The role of the intestinal microbiome in human health, and particularly mental health, is becoming increasingly evident. This systematic review aims to summarize the clinical data evaluating the effect of ELS on the human intestinal microbiome. The systematic review (CRD42022351092) was performed following PRISMA guidelines, with ELS considered as exposure to psychological stressors prenatally and during early life (childhood and adolescence). Thirteen articles met all inclusion criteria, and all studies reviewed found a link between ELS and the gut microbiome in both prenatal and postnatal periods. However, we failed to find consensus microbiome signatures associated with pre- or postnatal stress, or both. The inconsistency of results is likely attributed to various factors such as different experimental designs, ages examined, questionnaires, timing of sample collection and analysis methods, small population sizes, and the type of stressors. Additional studies using similar stressors and validated stress measures, as well as higher-resolution microbiome analytical approaches, are needed to draw definitive conclusions about the links between stress and the human gut microbiome.
Maternal Dietary Zinc Intake during Pregnancy and Childhood Allergic Diseases up to Four Years: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Yang Limin , Sato Miori , Saito-Abe Mayako , Miyaji Yumiko , Shimada Mami , Sato Chikako , Nishizato Minaho , Kumasaka Natsuhiko , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Yamamoto-Hanada Kiwako , Ohya Yukihiro ,   The Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group
Published: May 2023

Maternal dietary zinc intake and childhood allergy have inconsistent relationships. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of low maternal dietary zinc intake during pregnancy on developing pediatric allergic diseases. This study was designed using the Japan Environment and Children’s Study dataset. The model building used data from 74,948 mother–child pairs. Maternal dietary zinc intake was estimated based on the food frequency questionnaire, collecting the intake information of 171 food and beverage items. Fitted logistic regression models and generalized estimating equation models (GEEs) estimated the association between energy-adjusted zinc intake and childhood allergic conditions. The energy-adjusted zinc intake did not affect the risk of developing allergic disorders (wheeze, asthma, atopic dermatitis, rhinitis, and food allergy) in offspring. The GEE model revealed similar insignificant odds ratios. No significant association was found between zinc intake during pregnancy and allergic diseases in offspring in early childhood. Further study remains necessary to examine the association between zinc and allergy with reliable zinc status biomarkers in the body.
Impact of Nighttime Food Consumption and Feasibility of Fasting during Night Work: A Narrative Review
Authors: Marot Luisa Pereira , Lopes Tássia do Vale Cardoso , Balieiro Laura Cristina Tibiletti , Crispim Cibele Aparecida , Moreno Cláudia Roberta Castro
Published: May 2023

Shift work has been associated with an increased risk of developing chronic non-communicable diseases, such as obesity. The reduction in overnight fasting and its physiological consequences seem to affect the metabolic health of shift workers, but little has been discussed regarding the feasibility and implications of maintaining a night-long fast during work. This narrative review aims to discuss the impact of eating behavior on the reduction of overnight fasting in shift workers, as well as possible nutritional strategies involving fasting that have been tested for shift workers, to contribute to the establishment of nutritional guidelines for them. We used various databases and search engines to retrieve relevant articles, reviews, and investigations. Despite the potential benefits of overnight fasting for other groups, few studies have investigated this approach in the context of shift work. Generally, it seems to be a feasible and metabolically beneficial strategy for shift workers. However, it is essential to investigate the potential risks and benefits of reducing the fasting time for shift workers, considering social, hedonic, and stress-related factors. Furthermore, randomized clinical trials are necessary to establish safe and feasible strategies for shift workers to practice different fasting windows.
Multi-Trait Genome-Wide Association Studies of Sorghum bicolor Regarding Resistance to Anthracnose, Downy Mildew, Grain Mold and Head Smut
Authors: Ahn Ezekiel , Prom Louis K. , Magill Clint
Published: May 2023

Multivariate linear mixed models (mvLMMs) are widely applied for genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to detect genetic variants affecting multiple traits with correlations and/or different plant growth stages. Subsets of multiple sorghum populations, including the Sorghum Association Panel (SAP), the Sorghum Mini Core Collection and the Senegalese sorghum population, have been screened against various sorghum diseases such as anthracnose, downy mildew, grain mold and head smut. Still, these studies were generally performed in a univariate framework. In this study, we performed GWAS based on the principal components of defense-related multi-traits against the fungal diseases, identifying new potential SNPs (S04_51771351, S02_66200847, S09_47938177, S08_7370058, S03_72625166, S07_17951013, S04_66666642 and S08_51886715) associated with sorghum’s defense against these diseases.
Transscleral Delivery of Dexamethasone-Loaded Microparticles Using a Dissolving Microneedle Array
Authors: Fitaihi Rawan , Abukhamees Shorooq , Orlu Mine , Craig Duncan Q. M.
Published: May 2023

Microneedles (MNs) have attracted considerable interest as a means of ocular drug delivery, a challenging delivery route due to the limitations imposed by the various biological barriers associated with this organ. In this study, a novel ocular drug delivery system was developed by formulating a dissolvable MN array containing dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microparticles for scleral drug deposition. The microparticles serve as a drug reservoir for controlled transscleral delivery. The MNs displayed sufficient mechanical strength to penetrate the porcine sclera. Dexamethasone (Dex) scleral permeation was significantly higher than in topically instilled dosage forms. The MN system was able to distribute the drug through the ocular globe, with 19.2% of the administered Dex detected in the vitreous humour. Additionally, images of the sectioned sclera confirmed the diffusion of fluorescent-labelled microparticles within the scleral matrix. The system therefore represents a potential approach for minimally invasive Dex delivery to the posterior of the eye, which lends itself to self-administration and hence high patient convenience.
Understanding Fenofibrate Release from Bare and Modified Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Figari Giorgia , Gonçalves José L. M. , Diogo Hermínio P. , Dionísio Madalena , Farinha José Paulo , Viciosa María Teresa
Published: May 2023

To investigate the impact of the surface functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) carriers in the physical state, molecular mobility and the release of Fenofibrate (FNB) MSNs with ordered cylindrical pores were prepared. The surface of the MSNs was modified with either (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) or trimethoxy(phenyl)silane (TMPS), and the density of the grafted functional groups was quantified via 1H-NMR. The incorporation in the ~3 nm pores of the MSNs promoted FNB amorphization, as evidenced via FTIR, DSC and dielectric analysis, showing no tendency to undergo recrystallization in opposition to the neat drug. Moreover, the onset of the glass transition was slightly shifted to lower temperatures when the drug was loaded in unmodified MSNs, and MSNs modified with APTES composite, while it increased in the case of TMPS-modified MSNs. Dielectric studies have confirmed these changes and allowed researchers to disclose the broad glass transition in multiple relaxations associated with different FNB populations. Moreover, DRS showed relaxation processes in dehydrated composites associated with surface-anchored FNB molecules whose mobility showed a correlation with the observed drug release profiles.
Comparison of Clinical Interventions between Student Pharmacists on Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in Indianapolis, Indiana versus Eldoret, Kenya
Authors: Karwa Rakhi , Miller Monica L. , Schellhase Ellen , Crowe Susie , Manji Imran , Albertson Shelby , Frauhiger Monica , Pastakia Sonak
Published: May 2023

Student pharmacists can have a positive impact on patient care. The objective of this research was to compare clinical interventions made by Purdue University College of Pharmacy (PUCOP) student pharmacists completing internal medicine Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) in Kenya and the US. A retrospective analysis of interventions made by PUCOP student pharmacists participating in either the 8-week global health APPE at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH-Kenya) or the 4-week adult medicine APPE at the Sydney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital (SLEH-US) was completed. Twenty-nine students (94%) documented interventions from the MTRH-Kenya cohort and 23 (82%) from the SLEH-US cohort. The median number of patients cared for per day was similar between the MTRH-Kenya (6.98 patients per day, interquartile range [IQR] = 5.75 to 8.15) and SLEH-US students (6.47 patients per day, IQR = 5.58 to 7.83). MTRH-Kenya students made a median number of 25.44 interventions per day (IQR = 20.80 to 28.95), while SLEH-US students made 14.77 (IQR = 9.80 to 17.72). The most common interventions were medication reconciliation/t-sheet rewrite and patient chart reviews for MTRH-Kenya and the SLEH-US, respectively. This research highlights how student pharmacists, supported in a well-designed, location-appropriate learning environment, can positively impact patient care.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of the Benthic Dinoflagellate Amphidinium from Coastal Waters of Mexico
Authors: Durán-Riveroll Lorena María , Juárez Oscar E. , Okolodkov Yuri B. , Mejía-Camacho Ana Luisa , Ramírez-Corona Fabiola , Casanova-Gracia Dania , Osorio-Ramírez María del Carmen , Cervantes-Urieta Victor A. , Cembella Allan D.
Published: May 2023

The genus Amphidinium Clap. & J. Lachm. comprises a high diversity of planktonic and benthic (epiphytic and sand-dwelling) dinoflagellates from marine and freshwater ecosystems. High morphological plasticity and vaguely defined genus characteristics (e.g., a small epicone size) have complicated the clear delineation of species boundaries. Although six Amphidinium morphospecies have been reported from Mexican coastal waters, species identifications are uncertain and not generally supported by molecular phylogenetic data. In this study, seven isolates of Amphidinium from diverse benthic coastal locations on the NE Pacific, Gulf of California, and southern Gulf of Mexico were subjected to critical morphological analysis using photonic and scanning electron microscopy. The phylogenetic reconstruction was based on nuclear-encoded, partial large-subunit (LSU) rDNA and internal transcribed spacer I and II (ITS1 and ITS2) sequences. The revised phylogenetic analysis was consistent with the traditional subdivision of the genus Amphidinium into two sister groups: Herdmanii and Operculatum clades. This study provided the first confirmed records of A. theodorei and A. massartii from coastal waters of Mexico. The molecular phylogenetic evidence indicated that the morphologically described A. cf. carterae from Baja California was in fact more closely allied with A. eilatiensis sequences. A few Amphidinium species are known to form toxigenic (i.e., fish-killing) harmful algal blooms worldwide, and therefore knowledge on species diversity and biogeography is critical in developing effective strategies for evaluating the potential emerging threat in Mexican coastal waters.
Identification of Green-Leaf Volatiles Released from Cabbage Palms (Sabal palmetto) Infected with the Lethal Bronzing Phytoplasma
Authors: Ferreira Jordana A. , Ramos José A. , Dutra Debora R. C. S. , Di Lella Brandon , Helmick Ericka E. , Queiroz Sonia C. N. , Bahder Brian W.
Published: May 2023

Lethal bronzing (LB) is a fatal infection that affects over 20 species of palms (Arecaceae) and is caused by the phytoplasma ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma aculeata’. This pathogen causes significant economic losses to landscape and nursery companies in Florida, USA. Recently, the vector was determined to be the planthopper Haplaxius crudus, which was more abundant on LB-infected palms. Herein, the volatile chemicals emitted from LB-infected palms were characterized using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS). Infected Sabal palmetto were identified and confirmed as positive for LB via quantitative PCR. Healthy controls of each species were selected for comparison. All infected palms exhibited elevated levels of hexanal and E-2-hexenal. Threatened palms showed high releasing concentrations of 3-hexenal and Z-3-hexen-1-ol. The volatiles characterized herein are common green-leaf volatiles (GLVs) emitted by plants under stress. This study considers the first documented case of GLVs in palms attributed to phytoplasma infection. Due to the apparent attraction of LB-infected palms to the vector, one or several of the GLVs identified in this study could serve as a lure for the vector and supplement management programs.