bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Potentiality of Bioactive Substances: Regulating the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Chen Baixi , Wang Yuhua , Chen Guangjie
Published: October 2023

The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is an essential component of the human innate immune system, and is closely associated with adaptive immunity. In most cases, the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome requires priming and activating, which are influenced by various ion flux signals and regulated by various enzymes. Aberrant functions of intracellular NLRP3 inflammasomes promote the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases, with the majority of studies currently focused on rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. In recent years, a number of bioactive substances have shown new potentiality for regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome in autoimmune diseases. This review provides a concise overview of the composition, functions, and regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Additionally, we focus on the newly discovered bioactive substances for regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome in autoimmune diseases in the past three years.
Neuroimaging Insights: Kava’s (Piper methysticum) Effect on Dorsal Anterior Cingulate Cortex GABA in Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Savage Karen , Sarris Jerome , Hughes Matthew , Bousman Chad A. , Rossell Susan , Scholey Andrew , Stough Con , Suo Chao
Published: October 2023

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent, chronic mental health disorder. The measurement of regional brain gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) offers insight into its role in anxiety and is a potential biomarker for treatment response. Research literature suggests Piper methysticum (Kava) is efficacious as an anxiety treatment, but no study has assessed its effects on central GABA levels. This study investigated dorsal anterior cingulate (dACC) GABA levels in 37 adult participants with GAD. GABA was measured using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) at baseline and following an eight-week administration of Kava (standardised to 120 mg kavalactones twice daily) (n = 20) or placebo (n = 17). This study was part of the Kava for the Treatment of GAD (KGAD; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02219880), a 16-week intervention study. Compared with the placebo group, the Kava group had a significant reduction in dACC GABA (p = 0.049) at eight weeks. Baseline anxiety scores on the HAM-A were positively correlated with GABA levels but were not significantly related to treatment. Central GABA reductions following Kava treatment may signal an inhibitory effect, which, if considered efficacious, suggests that GABA levels are modulated by Kava, independent of reported anxiety symptoms. dACC GABA patterns suggest a functional role of higher levels in clinical anxiety but warrants further research for symptom benefit. Findings suggest that dACC GABA levels previously un-examined in GAD could serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and treatment response.
The Association between Dietary Habits and Rapid Postoperative Recovery of Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Liu Jiaxin , Wang Wei , Wang Zhifeng , Wu Qingyun , Zhu Yunli , Wu Weicheng , Zhou Qi
Published: October 2023

Some nutritional factors have been suggested to improve postoperative outcomes in rotator cuff (RC) repair, but dietary effects on the recovery speed after the surgery remain undefined. To investigate the potential roles of dietary habits in this context, we analyzed the 12-month follow-up data of 55 patients with RC repair and found that these patients could be categorized into a rapid recovery group (n = 35) and slow recovery group (n = 20) according to their postoperative recovery patterns. Group-based logistic analysis revealed that habitual intakes of meat (OR = 1.84, 95%CI, 1.22–2.76, p = 0.003), fruits (OR = 2.33, 95%CI, 1.26–5.67, p = 0.01), and wheat-flour foods (OR = 1.62, 95%CI, 1.2–2.25, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with rapid recovery. Moreover, among all intakes of wheat-flour foods, intakes of steamed and boiled flour products were also associated with rapid recovery. Further mediation analysis showed that eosinophilic granulocytes (EOs) significantly mediated the association between rapid RC recovery and the habitual intakes of meat (mediation proportion = 17.5%, P-mediation < 0.0001), fruits (17.9%, p < 0.0001), and wheat-flour foods (11.4%, p < 0.0001). Thus, our study suggests that certain dietary habits play beneficial roles in the context of postoperative recovery for RC repair.
Growth Profiles of Children and Adolescents Living with and without Perinatal HIV Infection in Southern Africa: A Secondary Analysis of Cohort Data
Authors: Rehman Andrea M. , Sekitoleko Isaac , Rukuni Ruramayi , Webb Emily L. , McHugh Grace , Bandason Tsitsi , Moyo Brewster , Ngwira Lucky Gift , Mukwasi-Kahari Cynthia , Gregson Celia L. , Simms Victoria , Filteau Suzanne , Ferrand Rashida A.
Published: October 2023

Impaired linear growth and slower pubertal growth can be associated with perinatal HIV infection. We characterised growth relative to population norms, among the full adolescent period in southern Africa to better understand processes leading to morbidity in adulthood. We conducted a secondary analysis of 945 adolescents aged 8–20 years from urban Malawi and Zimbabwe; we included children with HIV (CWH), an uninfected comparison group from a cohort study, and CWH with co-morbid chronic lung disease (CLD) from a randomised controlled trial. We used latent class analysis of anthropometric Z-scores generated from British 1990 reference equations at two annual time-points, to identify growth trajectory profiles and used multinomial logistic regression to identify factors associated with growth profiles. Growth faltering (one or more of weight-for-age, height-for-age, or BMI-for-age Z-scores < −2) occurred in 38% (116/303) of CWH from the cohort study, 62% (209/336) of CWH with CLD, and 14% (44/306) of HIV-uninfected participants. We identified seven different growth profiles, defined, relatively, as (1) average growth, (2) tall not thin, (3) short not thin, (4) stunted not thin, (5) thin not stunted, (6) thin and stunted and (7) very thin and stunted. Females in profile 3 exhibited the highest body fat percentage, which increased over 1 year. Males at older age and CWH especially those with CLD were more likely to fall into growth profiles 4–7. Improvements in height-for-age Z-scores were observed in profiles 6–7 over 1 year. Interventions to target those with the worst growth faltering and longer-term follow-up to assess the impact on adult health are warranted.
Infant Complementary Feeding Methods and Subsequent Occurrence of Food Neophobia—A Cross-Sectional Study of Polish Children Aged 2–7 Years
Authors: Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka , Kowalski Oskar
Published: October 2023

Food neophobia is standard behaviour in child development. It is a complex process and occurs to varying degrees. The symptoms of neophobia can be variable depending on the individual. Food neophobia is a fear of new foods, whereby difficulties in eating and trying unfamiliar foods follow. It is one of the more vital determinants of the number of meals consumed at a young age. Such a process is not a disorder in itself but can lead to one. The highest severity of neophobia occurs between the ages of two and six, but in some children, it lasts beyond age 6. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of food neophobia among children aged 2–7 years, taking into account the method of complementary feeding, the length of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, the period of introduction of complementary foods, and the use of the BLW method during the period of dietary expansion. Materials and methods: The study used an anonymous survey questionnaire consisting of five parts as the research tool. The first part of the questionnaire was a metric and concerned the socio-demographic data of the parent/guardian and their child. A standardised questionnaire assessing food neophobia among children was used to assess food neophobia: the Food Neophobia Scale—Children (FNSC). Results: In the study group, 171 children (29.23%) had a low risk of food neophobia according to the FNSC, 182 children (31.11%) had a medium risk of neophobia, and 232 children (39.66%) had a high risk of neophobia. A correlation was observed between the age and the risk of food neophobia (p = 0.0002). Statistically significant differences were found between children aged 2 and 4 (p = 0.003) and children aged 2 and 5 years (p = 0.049). We observed no correlation between gagging (p = 0.88557), choking (p = 0.17597), and needing medical intervention (p = 0.61427) and the risk of associated neophobia. Conclusion: In the study group of children, the highest risk of food neophobia was characterized by children aged 4, 5, and 7 years. The length of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding did not affect the risk of food neophobia. In the month in which complementary feeding (CF) was introduced, the children were fed using the baby-led weaning method (BLW method), and introducing puree and puree with lump food into the children’s diet also did not affect the risk of food neophobia. It was shown, however, that children whose mothers observed difficulties during CF and whose children had a vomiting reflex and spat food out of their mouths during CF were more likely to develop food neophobia at the preschool age.
Pro-Inflammatory Diets Are Associated with Frailty in an Urban Middle-Aged African American and White Cohort
Authors: Kuczmarski Marie Fanelli , Beydoun May A. , Georgescu Michael F. , Noren Hooten Nicole , Mode Nicolle A. , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: October 2023

Diet quality is a modifiable risk factor for frailty, but research on the association of frailty with dietary inflammatory potential is limited. The objective was to determine associations between diet quality assessed by the dietary inflammatory index (DII) with frailty status over time. Participants with both dietary and frailty data from the longitudinal Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study were used (n = 2901, 43.5% male, 43.8% African American, 48.5 y mean baseline age, with a mean 8.7 y of follow-up). Group-based trajectory modeling identified two frailty (remaining non-frail or being pre-frail/frail over time) and three diet quality trajectory groups (high or medium pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory potentials). Multiple logistic regression found both medium pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory DII trajectory groups, compared to the high pro-inflammatory group, were positively associated with being non-frail over time for the overall sample, both sexes and races. Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank test revealed anti-inflammatory DII scores were associated with lower risk for being pre-frail or frail. No longitudinal relationship existed between frailty status at baseline and annualized DII change, a check on reverse causality. This study contributes to our current knowledge providing longitudinal evidence of the link between anti-inflammatory DII score with lower frailty risk.
Ethanol Extracts from the Aerial Parts of Inula japonica and Potentilla chinensis Alleviate Airway Inflammation in Mice That Inhaled Particulate Matter 10 and Diesel Particulate Matter
Authors: Jung Seang-Hwan , Chung Kyung-Sook , Na Chang-Seon , Ahn Hye-Shin , Shin Yu-Kyong , Lee Kyung-Tae
Published: October 2023

Air pollution causes various airway diseases. However, many commonly used treatments can have high risks of side effects or are costly. To examine the anti-inflammatory properties of Inula japonica Thunb. and Potentilla chinensis Ser., a mouse model was generated via inhalation of both particulate matter 10 and diesel particulate matter, and 30% ethanol extracts of either I. japonica (IJ) or P. chinensis (PC) and a mixture of both ethanol extracts (IP) were orally administered to BALB/c mice for 12 days. IJ, PC, and IP inhibited immune cell numbers and their regulation in both the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lungs. These agents suppressed the levels of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-1, and CXCL-2 in BALF, and also inhibited F4/80 and IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK)-1 in lungs. They reduced the gene expression of TNF-α, CXCL-1, inducible NOS, COX-2, Mucin 5AC, and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 in lungs. These extracts also reduced histopathological changes and inflammatory progression, manifested as decreased cell infiltration, collagen deposition, and respiratory epithelial cell thickness. I. japonica and P. chinensis show potential for development as pharmaceuticals that suppress inflammatory progression and alleviate airway inflammation diseases caused by air pollutants.
The Association of Maternal Weight Status throughout the Life-Course with the Development of Childhood Obesity: A Secondary Analysis of the Healthy Growth Study Data
Authors: Mannino Adriana , Sarapis Katerina , Mourouti Niki , Karaglani Eva , Anastasiou Costas A. , Manios Yannis , Moschonis George
Published: October 2023

Maternal weight-status at various time-points may influence child obesity development, however the most critical time-point remains unidentified. We used data from the Healthy Growth Study, a cross-sectional study of 2666 Greek schoolchildren aged 9–13 years, exploring associations between childhood obesity and maternal weight-status at pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy/gestational weight gain, and at the child’s pre-adolescence. Logistic regression analyses examined associations between maternal weight-status being “below” or “above” the recommended cut-off points (WHO BMI thresholds or IOM cut-off points), at the three time-points, individually or combined into weight-status trajectory groups to determine the strongest associations with child obesity in pre-adolescence. Adjusted models found significant associations and the highest odds ratios [95% Confidence Intervals] for mothers affected by obesity before pregnancy (4.16 [2.47, 7.02]), those with excessive gestational weight gain during pregnancy (1.50 [1.08, 2.08]), and those affected by obesity at their child’s pre-adolescence (3.3 [2.29, 4.87]). When combining these weight-status groups, mothers who were above–above–below (3.24 [1.10, 9.55]), and above–above–above (3.07 [1.95, 4.85]) the healthy weight recommendation-based thresholds in each time-point, had a three-fold higher likelihood of child obesity, compared to the below–below–below trajectory group. Maternal obesity across all examined time-points was significantly associated with childhood obesity. Effective childhood obesity preventive initiatives should commence at pre-conception, targeting maternal weight throughout the life-course and childhood developmental stages.
Grain Intake and Cardiometabolic Health—Towards Precision Nutrition
Authors: Liu Xin , Shi Lin , Sun Liang
Published: October 2023

Grains are widely consumed all over the world, providing calories, macronutrients, micronutrients, dietary fiber, minerals, and plenty of phytochemicals [...]
Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0), an Essential Fatty Acid, Shares Clinically Relevant Cell-Based Activities with Leading Longevity-Enhancing Compounds
Authors: Venn-Watson Stephanie , Schork Nicholas J.
Published: October 2023

Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) is an essential odd-chain saturated fatty acid with broad activities relevant to protecting cardiometabolic, immune, and liver health. C15:0 activates AMPK and inhibits mTOR, both of which are core components of the human longevity pathway. To assess the potential for C15:0 to enhance processes associated with longevity and healthspan, we used human cell-based molecular phenotyping assays to compare C15:0 with three longevity-enhancing candidates: acarbose, metformin, and rapamycin. C15:0 (n = 36 activities in 10 of 12 cell systems) and rapamycin (n = 32 activities in 12 of 12 systems) had the most clinically relevant, dose-dependent activities. At their optimal doses, C15:0 (17 µM) and rapamycin (9 µM) shared 24 activities across 10 cell systems, including anti-inflammatory (e.g., lowered MCP-1, TNFα, IL-10, IL-17A/F), antifibrotic, and anticancer activities, which are further supported by previously published in vitro and in vivo studies. Paired with prior demonstrated abilities for C15:0 to target longevity pathways, hallmarks of aging, aging rate biomarkers, and core components of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, our results support C15:0 as an essential nutrient with activities equivalent to, or surpassing, leading longevity-enhancing candidate compounds.
Benefits of Wasabi Supplements with 6-MSITC (6-Methylsulfinyl Hexyl Isothiocyanate) on Memory Functioning in Healthy Adults Aged 60 Years and Older: Evidence from a Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nouchi Rui , Kawata Natasha Y. S. , Saito Toshiki , Nouchi Haruka , Kawashima Ryuta
Published: October 2023

Background: Cognitive functions decline with age. Declined cognitive functions negatively affect daily behaviors. Previous studies showed the positive effect of spices and herbs on cognition. In this study, we investigated the positive impact of wasabi, which is a traditional Japanese spice, on cognitive functions. The main bioactive compound of wasabi is 6-MSITC (6 methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate), which has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. Anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatories have an important role in cognitive health. Therefore, 6-MSITC is expected to have positive effects on cognitive function. Previous studies showed the beneficial effects on cognitive functions in middle-aged adults. However, it is unclear that 6-MSITC has a positive effect on cognitive functions in healthy older adults aged 60 years and over. Here, we investigated whether 12 weeks’ 6-MSITC intervention enhances cognitive performance in older adults using a double-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods: Seventy-two older adults were randomly assigned to 6-MSITC or placebo groups. Participants were asked to take a supplement (6-MSITC or a placebo) for 12 weeks. We checked a wide range of cognitive performances (e.g., executive function, episodic memory, processing speed, working memory, and attention) at the pre- and post-intervention periods. Results: The 6-MSITC group showed a significant improvement in working and episodic memory performances compared to the placebo group. However, we did not find any significant improvements in other cognitive domains. Discussion: This study firstly demonstrates scientific evidence that 6-MSITC may enhance working memory and episodic memory in older adults. We discuss the potential mechanism for improving cognitive functions after 6-MSITC intake.
Bioactive Peptides Derived from Edible Insects: Effects on Human Health and Possible Applications in Dentistry
Authors: Ferrazzano Gianmaria Fabrizio , D’Ambrosio Francesca , Caruso Sara , Gatto Roberto , Caruso Silvia
Published: October 2023

Novel foods, including edible insects, are emerging because of their nutritional characteristics and low environmental impacts and could represent a valid alternative source of food in a more sustainable way. Edible insects have been shown to have beneficial effects on human health. Insect-derived bioactive peptides exert antihypertensive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties and have protective effects against common metabolic conditions. In this review, the roles of edible insects in human health are reported, and the possible applications of these peptides in clinical practice are discussed. A special mention is given to the role of antimicrobial peptides and their potential applications in controlling infections in orthodontic procedures. In this context, insects’ antimicrobial peptides might represent a potential tool to face the onset of infective endocarditis, with a low chance to develop resistances, and could be manipulated and optimized to replace common antibiotics used in clinical practice so far. Although some safety concerns must be taken into consideration, and the isolation and production of insect-derived proteins are far from easy, edible insects represent an interesting source of peptides, with beneficial effects that may be, in the future, integrated into clinical and orthodontic practice.
Increase in Vascular Function Parameters According to Lifestyles in a Spanish Population without Previous Cardiovascular Disease—EVA Follow-Up Study
Authors: Navarro Cáceres Alicia , Navarro-Matías Elena , Gómez-Sánchez Marta , Tamayo-Morales Olaya , Lugones-Sánchez Cristina , González-Sánchez Susana , Rodríguez-Sánchez Emiliano , García-Ortiz Luis , Gómez-Sánchez Leticia , Gómez-Marcos Manuel A. ,   EVA-Follow-Up Investigators Group
Published: October 2023

The aim of this longitudinal descriptive observational study was to analyze the influence of different lifestyles on arterial stiffness (AS) throughout five years of follow-up and to describe the differences by sex in a Spanish adult population without cardiovascular disease at the start of the study. A random stratified sampling by age and sex was used to obtain 501 subjects included in the initial assessment. No cardiovascular disease was allowed in the subjects. The average age was 55.9 years, and 50.3% were women. A total of 480 subjects were analyzed again five years later. Alcohol and tobacco consumption were collected with standardized questionnaires. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed with the Mediterranean diet adherence screener (MEDAS) questionnaire. Physical activity was assessed with the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and sedentary time was assessed with the Marshall Sitting Questionnaire (MSQ). AS was assessed by measuring carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and central augmentation index (CAIx) with SphygmoCor System®, and ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and cardio ankle vascular index (CAVI) with Vasera VS-1500®. Increases in vascular function measures per year of follow-up were: cfPWV = 0.228 ± 0.360 m/s, baPWV = 0.186 ± 0.308 m/s, CAVI = 0.041 ± 0.181 m/s, and CAIx = 0.387 ± 2.664 m/s. In multiple regression analysis, positive association was shown between an increase in baPWV and tobacco index (β = 0.007) and alcohol consumption (β = 0.005). Negative association was shown between CAVI and Mediterranean diet score (β = −0.051). In multinomial logistic regression analysis, the OR of tobacco index of subjects with a cfPWV increase >P75 was OR = 1.025 and of subjects classified between P25 and P75 was OR = 1.026 regarding subjects classified with an increase P75 was OR = 1.006 regarding subjects classified with an increase  P75, and an OR = 0.841 was found of subjects classified between P25–75 regarding subjects classified with an increase <P25. In conclusion, the association of lifestyle between an increase in AS measures at 5 year follow-up differs according to the AS measure analyzed. A positive association was shown with increased cfPWV and tobacco index, as well as alcohol consumption with increased baPWV. However, a negative association with CAVI and adherence to the Mediterranean diet was found.
Effects of Ceramic Translucency and Thickness on Polymerization of a Photosensitive Resin Cement
Authors: Barazanchi Abdullah , Abduo Jaafar , Lee Yvonne Min-Joo , Lee Min-Suk , Li Kai Chun
Published: October 2023

We investigated the effects of lithium disilicate ceramic thickness and translucency on the degree of polymerization of light-cured resin cement using the measure of hardness. Lithium disilicate specimens of three translucencies (low, medium and high) were prepared to four thicknesses (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 mm). A light-cured resin cement was cured through each of the ceramic specimens using a handheld curing light for 50 s. A 3D printed jig was used to achieve a uniform thickness of the resin cement. Directly cured resin cement was used as the control. Hardness was measured using nano-indentation to determine the degree of polymerization of the resin cement. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests were used to evaluate interaction between translucency and thickness. Hardness values from control specimens were assessed using the two-tailed t-test with the Bonferroni approach. The translucency of the specimens significantly influenced the hardness (p < 0.001), where a negative linear relationship between cement hardness and ceramic thickness was present for low translucency and high translucency. However, at a 0.5 mm thickness, all specimens showed similar hardness regardless of the translucency. The translucency of ceramics affected the hardness, and hence polymerization, of light-cure resin cement. However, the effect of increased thickness was a more significant factor.
Handheld Ultra-Fast Duplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays and Lateral Flow Detection and Identification of Leishmania Parasites for Cutaneous Leishmaniases Diagnosis
Authors: Bel Hadj Ali Insaf , Saadi-Ben Aoun Yusr , Hammami Zeineb , Rhouma Oumayma , Chakroun Ahmed Sahbi , Guizani Ikram
Published: October 2023

Early and accurate detection of infectious diseases is a key step for surveillance, epidemiology and control, notably timely disease diagnosis, patient management and follow-up. In this study, we aimed to develop handheld ultra-fast duplex PCR assays coupled to amplicon detection by lateral flow (LF) immunoassay to deliver a rapid and simple molecular diagnostic test for concomitant detection and identification of the main Leishmania parasites encountered in Tunisia. We selected two DNA targets to amplify L. major/L. tropica and L. infantum/L. tropica groups of species DNAs, respectively. We optimized the experimental conditions of a duplex ultra-fast PCR. The amplification is performed using a portable Palm convection PCR machine within 18 min, and the products are detected using an LF cassette within 10 min. The test allows the identification of the infecting species according to the position and number of test lines revealed. Tested on a selection of DNAs of representative Leishmania strains of the three studied species (N = 37), the ultra-fast duplex PCR–LF showed consistent, stable and reproducible results. The analytical limit of detection of the test was 0.4 pg for L. major, 4 pg for L. infantum and 40 pg for L. tropica.
CcpA-Knockout Staphylococcus aureus Induces Abnormal Metabolic Phenotype via the Activation of Hepatic STAT5/PDK4 Signaling in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Li Yilang , Cai Jiaxuan , Liu Yinan , Li Conglin , Chen Xiaoqing , Wong Wing-Leung , Jiang Wenyue , Qin Yuan , Zhang Guiping , Hou Ning , Yuan Wenchang
Published: October 2023

Catabolite control protein A (CcpA), an important global regulatory protein, is extensively found in S. aureus. Many studies have reported that CcpA plays a pivotal role in regulating the tricarboxylic acid cycle and pathogenicity. Moreover, the CcpA-knockout Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in diabetic mice, compared with the wild-type, showed a reduced colonization rate in the tissues and organs and decreased inflammatory factor expression. However, the effect of CcpA-knockout S. aureus on the host’s energy metabolism in a high-glucose environment and its mechanism of action remain unclear. S. aureus, a common and major human pathogen, is increasingly found in patients with obesity and diabetes, as recent clinical data reveal. To address this issue, we generated CcpA-knockout S. aureus strains with different genetic backgrounds to conduct in-depth investigations. In vitro experiments with high-glucose-treated cells and an in vivo model study with type 1 diabetic mice were used to evaluate the unknown effect of CcpA-knockout strains on both the glucose and lipid metabolism phenotypes of the host. We found that the strains caused an abnormal metabolic phenotype in type 1 diabetic mice, particularly in reducing random and fasting blood glucose and increasing triglyceride and fatty acid contents in the serum. In a high-glucose environment, CcpA-knockout S. aureus may activate the hepatic STAT5/PDK4 pathway and affect pyruvate utilization. An abnormal metabolic phenotype was thus observed in diabetic mice. Our findings provide a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in diabetic patients infected with S. aureus.
Synergistic Effect of Plant Compounds in Combination with Conventional Antimicrobials against Biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida spp.
Authors: Bonincontro Graziana , Scuderi Sarah Adriana , Marino Andreana , Simonetti Giovanna
Published: October 2023

Bacterial and fungal biofilm has increased antibiotic resistance and plays an essential role in many persistent diseases. Biofilm-associated chronic infections are difficult to treat and reduce the efficacy of medical devices. This global problem has prompted extensive research to find alternative strategies to fight microbial chronic infections. Plant bioactive metabolites with antibiofilm activity are known to be potential resources to alleviate this problem. The phytochemical screening of some medicinal plants showed different active groups, such as stilbenes, tannins, alkaloids, terpenes, polyphenolics, flavonoids, lignans, quinones, and coumarins. Synergistic effects can be observed in the interaction between plant compounds and conventional drugs. This review analyses and summarises the current knowledge on the synergistic effects of plant metabolites in combination with conventional antimicrobials against biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The synergism of conventional antimicrobials with plant compounds can modify and inhibit the mechanisms of acquired resistance, reduce undesirable effects, and obtain an appropriate therapeutic effect at lower doses. A deeper knowledge of these combinations and of their possible antibiofilm targets is needed to develop next-generation novel antimicrobials and/or improve current antimicrobials to fight drug-resistant infections attributed to biofilm.
Wound Healing Performance in a Moist Environment of Crystalline Glucose/Mannose Film as a New Dressing Material Using a Rat Model: Comparing with Medical-Grade Wound Dressing and Alginate
Authors: Wong Celine Chia Qi , Tomura Kanako , Yamamoto Osamu
Published: October 2023

Although medical wound dressings produced using hydrocolloids and alginate were effective in wound healing, adhesion at the wound site and the resulting delayed healing have been a problem. As a new wound dressing material, crystalline wound dressings produced from glucose/mannose were used in this study, which aimed to clarify the properties, adhesion reduction, and wound healing performance of a new wound dressing. Crystalline glucose/mannose films were obtained via alkali treatment using the solution casting method. The structure of the crystalline glucose/mannose films was analogous to the cellulose II polymorph, and the crystallinity decreased with time in hydrated conditions. The crystalline glucose/mannose films had adequate water absorption of 34 × 10−4 g/mm3 for 5 min. These allowed crystalline glucose/mannose films to remove excess wound exudates while maintaining a moist wound healing condition. This in vivo study demonstrated the healing effects of three groups, which were crystalline glucose/mannose group > alginate group > hydrocolloid group. At 1 week, the crystalline glucose/mannose group was also found to be non-adhesive to the portion of wound healing. This was evidenced by the earlier onset of the healing process, which assisted in re-epithelization and promotion of collagen formation and maturation. These results implied that crystalline glucose/mannose films were a promising candidate that could accelerate the wound healing process, compared with medical-grade wound dressing and alginate.
Design, Synthesis, and Antisickling Investigation of a Thiazolidine Prodrug of TD-7 That Prolongs the Duration of Action of Antisickling Aromatic Aldehyde
Authors: Alhashimi Rana T. , Ahmed Tarek A. , Alghanem Lamya , Pagare Piyusha P. , Huang Boshi , Ghatge Mohini S. , Omar Abdelsattar M. , Abdulmalik Osheiza , Zhang Yan , Safo Martin K.
Published: October 2023

The synthetic allosteric effector of hemoglobin, TD-7 has been investigated as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of sickle cell disease. The pharmacologic activity of TD-7 is due to formation of a Schiff-base interaction between its aldehyde group and the two N-terminal αVal1 amines of hemoglobin, effectively inhibiting sickling of red blood cells. However, TD-7 faces a challenge in terms of poor oral bioavailability due to rapid in-vivo oxidative metabolism of its aldehyde functional group. To address this shortcoming, researches have explored the use of a L-cysteine ethyl ester group to cap the aldehyde group to form a thiazolidine aromatic aldehyde prodrug complex, resulting in the improvement of the metabolic stability of this class of compounds. This report details the synthesis of a thiazolidine prodrug of TD-7, referred to as Pro-7, along with a comprehensive investigation of Pro-7 functional and biological properties. In an in-vitro Hb modification and Hb oxygen affinity studies using normal whole blood, as well as erythrocyte sickling inhibition using sickle whole blood, Pro-7 exhibited a gradual onset but progressive increase in all activities. Additionally, in-vivo pharmacokinetic studies conducted with Sprague Dawley rats demonstrated that Pro-7 can undergo hydrolysis to release TD-7. However, the blood concentration of TD-7 did not reach the desired therapeutic level. These findings suggest that the incorporation of the L-cysteine ethyl ester group to TD-7 represents a promising strategy to enhance the metabolic stability of aromatic aldehydes that could lead to the development of a more effective drug for the treatment of sickle cell disease.
Remote Loading: The Missing Piece for Achieving High Drug Payload and Rapid Release in Polymeric Microbubbles
Authors: Rastegar Ghazal , Salman Mohammad Musa , Sirsi Shashank R.
Published: October 2023

The use of drug-loaded microbubbles for targeted drug delivery, particularly in cancer treatment, has been extensively studied in recent years. However, the loading capacity of microbubbles has been limited due to their surface area. Typically, drug molecules are loaded on or within the shell, or drug-loaded nanoparticles are coated on the surfaces of microbubbles. To address this significant limitation, we have introduced a novel approach. For the first time, we employed a transmembrane ammonium sulfate and pH gradient to load doxorubicin in a crystallized form in the core of polymeric microcapsules. Subsequently, we created remotely loaded microbubbles (RLMBs) through the sublimation of the liquid core of the microcapsules. Remotely loaded microcapsules exhibited an 18-fold increase in drug payload compared with physically loaded microcapsules. Furthermore, we investigated the drug release of RLMBs when exposed to an ultrasound field. After 120 s, an impressive 82.4 ± 5.5% of the loaded doxorubicin was released, demonstrating the remarkable capability of remotely loaded microbubbles for on-demand drug release. This study is the first to report such microbubbles that enable rapid drug release from the core. This innovative technique holds great promise in enhancing drug loading capacity and advancing targeted drug delivery.
The Role of Five-Membered Heterocycles in the Molecular Structure of Antibacterial Drugs Used in Therapy
Authors: Rusu Aura , Moga Ioana-Maria , Uncu Livia , Hancu Gabriel
Published: October 2023

Five-membered heterocycles are essential structural components in various antibacterial drugs; the physicochemical properties of a five-membered heterocycle can play a crucial role in determining the biological activity of an antibacterial drug. These properties can affect the drug’s activity spectrum, potency, and pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties. Using scientific databases, we identified and discussed the antibacterials used in therapy, containing five-membered heterocycles in their molecular structure. The identified five-membered heterocycles used in antibacterial design contain one to four heteroatoms (nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur). Antibacterials containing five-membered heterocycles were discussed, highlighting the biological properties imprinted by the targeted heterocycle. In some antibacterials, heterocycles with five atoms are pharmacophores responsible for their specific antibacterial activity. As pharmacophores, these heterocycles help design new medicinal molecules, improving their potency and selectivity and comprehending the structure-activity relationship of antibiotics. Unfortunately, particular heterocycles can also affect the drug’s potential toxicity. The review extensively presents the most successful five-atom heterocycles used to design antibacterial essential medicines. Understanding and optimizing the intrinsic characteristics of a five-membered heterocycle can help the development of antibacterial drugs with improved activity, pharmacokinetic profile, and safety.
Correction: Qamar et al. Treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease Using Injectable Biomaterials and Drug-Coated Balloons: Safety and Efficacy Perspective. Pharmaceutics 2023, 15, 1813
Authors: Qamar Safi Ur Rehman , Spahić Lemana , Benolić Leo , Zivanovic Marko , Filipović Nenad
Published: October 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Genetic Mapping for QTL Associated with Seed Nickel and Molybdenum Accumulation in the Soybean ‘Forrest’ by ‘Williams 82’ RIL Population
Authors: Bellaloui Nacer , Knizia Dounya , Yuan Jiazheng , Song Qijian , Betts Frances , Register Teresa , Williams Earl , Lakhssassi Naoufal , Mazouz Hamid , Nguyen Henry T. , Meksem Khalid , Mengistu Alemu , Kassem My Abdelmajid
Published: October 2023

Understanding the genetic basis of seed Ni and Mo is essential. Since soybean is a major crop in the world and a major source for nutrients, including Ni and Mo, the objective of the current research was to map genetic regions (quantitative trait loci, QTL) linked to Ni and Mo concentrations in soybean seed. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was derived from a cross between ‘Forrest’ and ‘Williams 82’ (F × W82). A total of 306 lines was used for genotyping using 5405 single nucleotides polymorphism (SNP) markers using Infinium SNP6K BeadChips. A two-year experiment was conducted and included the parents and the RIL population. One experiment was conducted in 2018 in North Carolina (NC), and the second experiment was conducted in Illinois in 2020 (IL). Logarithm of the odds (LOD) of ≥2.5 was set as a threshold to report identified QTL using the composite interval mapping (CIM) method. A wide range of Ni and Mo concentrations among RILs was observed. A total of four QTL (qNi-01, qNi-02, and qNi-03 on Chr 2, 8, and 9, respectively, in 2018, and qNi-01 on Chr 20 in 2020) was identified for seed Ni. All these QTL were significantly (LOD threshold > 2.5) associated with seed Ni, with LOD scores ranging between 2.71–3.44, and with phenotypic variance ranging from 4.48–6.97%. A total of three QTL for Mo (qMo-01, qMo-02, and qMo-03 on Chr 1, 3, 17, respectively) was identified in 2018, and four QTL (qMo-01, qMo-02, qMo-03, and qMo-04, on Chr 5, 11, 14, and 16, respectively) were identified in 2020. Some of the current QTL had high LOD and significantly contributed to the phenotypic variance for the trait. For example, in 2018, Mo QTL qMo-01 on Chr 1 had LOD of 7.8, explaining a phenotypic variance of 41.17%, and qMo-03 on Chr 17 had LOD of 5.33, with phenotypic variance explained of 41.49%. In addition, one Mo QTL (qMo-03 on Chr 14) had LOD of 9.77, explaining 51.57% of phenotypic variance related to the trait, and another Mo QTL (qMo-04 on Chr 16) had LOD of 7.62 and explained 49.95% of phenotypic variance. None of the QTL identified here were identified twice across locations/years. Based on a search of the available literature and of SoyBase, the four QTL for Ni, identified on Chr 2, 8, 9, and 20, and the five QTL associated with Mo, identified on Chr 1, 17, 11, 14, and 16, are novel and not previously reported. This research contributes new insights into the genetic mapping of Ni and Mo, and provides valuable QTL and molecular markers that can potentially assist in selecting Ni and Mo levels in soybean seeds.
Long-Term Assessment of PurpleAir Low-Cost Sensor for PM2.5 in California, USA
Authors: Farooqui Zuber , Biswas Jhumoor , Saha Jayita
Published: October 2023

Regulatory monitoring networks are often too sparse to support community-scale PM2.5 exposure assessment, while emerging low-cost sensors have the potential to fill in the gaps. Recent advances in air quality monitoring have produced portable, easy-to-use, low-cost, sensor-based monitors which have given a new dimension to air pollutant monitoring and have democratized the air quality monitoring process by making monitors and results directly available at the community level. This study used PurpleAir © sensors for PM2.5 assessment in California, USA. The evaluation of PM2.5 from sensors included Quality Assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures, assessment concerning reference-monitored PM2.5 concentrations, and the formulation of a decision support system integrating these observations using geostatistical techniques. The hourly and daily average observed PM2.5 concentrations from PurpleAir monitors followed the trends of observed PM2.5 at regulatory monitors. PurpleAir monitors also captured the peak PM2.5 concentrations due to incidents such as forest fires. In comparison with reference-monitored PM2.5 levels, it was found that PurpleAir PM2.5 concentrations were mostly higher. The most important reason for PurpleAir’s higher PM2.5 concentrations was the inclusion of moisture or water vapor as an aerosol in contrast to measurements of PM2.5 excluding water content in FEM/FRM and non-FEM/FRM monitors. Long-term assessment (2016–2023) revealed that R2 values were between 0.54 and 0.86 for selected collocated PurpleAir sensors and regulatory monitors for hourly PM2.5 concentrations. Past research studies that were conducted for mostly shorter periods resulted in higher R2 values between 0.80 and 0.98. This study aims to provide reasonable estimations of PM2.5 concentrations with high spatiotemporal resolutions based on statistical models using PurpleAir measurements. The methods of Kriging and IDW, geostatistical interpolation techniques, showed similar spatio-temporal patterns. Overall, this study revealed that low-cost, sensor-based PurpleAir sensors could be effective and reliable tools for episodic and long-term ambient air quality monitoring and developing mitigation strategies.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Doped Magnesium Hydrate and Its Effect on the Flame Retardant and Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene
Authors: Li Xue , Zhang Hongbo , Liu Xiaoyuan , Lv Zhihui , Jin Yankui , Zhu Donghai , Dang Li
Published: October 2023

In this work, an effective flame retardant consisting of nanoscale zinc oxide doped on the surface of hexagonal lamellar magnesium hydrate (ZO@MH) has been successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal process. Approximately 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH-570) is chosen as a modifier of ZO@MH for the purpose of enhancing the interfacial interaction between ZO@MH and the polypropylene (PP) matrix and reducing the agglomeration of ZO@MH. Afterwards, ZO@MH and KH-570 modified ZO@MH (KZO@MH) filled PP (PP/ZO@MH and PP/KZO@MH) composites are respectively prepared via the melt blending method. The flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of PP/ZO@MH and PP/KZO@MH composites are estimated by a cone calorimetry test (CCT). The peak value of the heat release rate of the PP/40KZO@MH composite is 327.0 kW/m2, which is 6.1% and 31.2% lower than that of the PP/40ZO@MH and PP/40MH composites, respectively. The lowest peak values of CO and CO2 production, 0.008 and 0.62 g/s, also appeared in the PP/40KZO@MH composite, which are 11.1% and 10.1% lower than those of the PP/40ZO@MH composite. Analysis of char residues indicates that nanoscale ZO and modification of KH-570 improve the amount and quality of char residues, which should be the main reason for the good flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of KZO@MH. Impact strength and nominal strain at break results show that the PP matrix is toughened by ZO@MH rather than KZO@MH. Tensile properties and the quantitative interfacial interaction calculated by the Turcsányi equation both prove the reinforcement of KZO@MH on the PP matrix.
UV Radiation Effect in New Materials Developed for the Construction of Beehives
Authors: Rubiano-Navarrete Andrés , Fabian Camilo Lesmes , Torres-Pérez Yolanda , Gómez-Pachón Edwin
Published: October 2023

In recent decades, there has been an increasing focus on the alarming decline in global bee populations, given their critical ecological contributions to natural pollination and biodiversity. This decline, marked by a substantial reduction in bee colonies in forested areas, has serious implications for sustainable beekeeping practices and poses a broader risk to ecological well-being. Addressing these pressing issues requires innovative solutions, one of which involves the development and fabrication of beehives crafted from composite materials that are ecologically compatible with bee biology. Importantly, these materials should also exhibit a high resistance to environmental factors, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, in order to maintain their mechanical integrity and longevity. To investigate this, we conducted accelerated UV degradation tests on a variety of composite materials to rapidly assess their susceptibility to UV-induced changes. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) served as the matrix material and was reinforced with natural fibers, specifically fique fibers (Furcraea bedinghausii), banana fibers, and goose feathers. Our findings indicate that UV radiation exposure results in a noticeable reduction in the tensile strength of these materials. For example, wood composites experienced a 48% decline in tensile strength over a 60-day period, a rate of deterioration notably higher than that of other tested composite materials. Conversely, HDPE composites fortified with banana fibers initially demonstrated tensile strengths exceeding 9 MPa and 10 MPa. Although these values gradually decreased over the observation period, the composites still displayed favorable stress–strain characteristics. This research underscores the substantial influence of UV radiation on the longevity and efficacy of beehive materials, which in turn affects the durability of natural wood hives exposed to these environmental factors. The resultant increased maintenance and replacement costs for beekeepers further emphasize the need for judicious material selection in beehive construction and point to the viability of the composite materials examined in this study.