bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Interventions for Patients with Melanoma: From Prevention to Therapy—An Update
Authors: Pellegrini Marianna , D'Eusebio Chiara , Ponzo Valentina , Tonella Luca , Finocchiaro Concetta , Fierro Maria Teresa , Quaglino Pietro , Bo Simona
Published: November 2021

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer, whose incidence rates have increased over the past few decades. Risk factors for melanoma are both intrinsic (genetic and familiar predisposition) and extrinsic (environment, including sun exposure, and lifestyle). The recent advent of targeted and immune-based therapies has revolutionized the treatment of melanoma, and research is focusing on strategies to optimize them. Obesity is an established risk factor for several cancer types, but its possible role in the etiology of melanoma is controversial. Body mass index, body surface area, and height have been related to the risk for cutaneous melanoma, although an ‘obesity paradox’ has been described too. Increasing evidence suggests the role of nutritional factors in the prevention and management of melanoma. Several studies have demonstrated the impact of dietary attitudes, specific foods, and nutrients both on the risk for melanoma and on the progression of the disease, via the effects on the oncological treatments. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize the main literature results regarding the preventive and therapeutic role of nutritional schemes, specific foods, and nutrients on melanoma incidence and progression.
Frequency of Meals Prepared Away from Home and Nutrient Intakes among US Adolescents (NHANES 2011–2018)
Authors: Golper Shauna , Nagao-Sato Sayaka , Overcash Francine , Reicks Marla
Published: November 2021

Frequency of consuming foods prepared away from home has been associated with lower diet quality among adults and adolescents in several earlier studies. Nutrient and food group intake and Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 scores were compared among a U.S. nationally representative sample of adolescents (12–19 years, n = 3975) by frequency of consuming food prepared away from home ≤2 times/week (n = 2311) versus >2 times/week (n = 1664) using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2011–2018. Regression analyses were used to compare intakes among adolescents by frequency of eating meals prepared away from home adjusting for covariates. Older (16–19 years) vs. younger (12–15 years) adolescents and those from homes with higher vs. lower family income to poverty ratios had greater frequency of eating meals prepared away from home. Intakes of nutrients of concern for adolescents including choline, vitamin D, potassium, magnesium, fiber, phosphorus, folate, iron, and total HEI-2015 scores and component scores for total vegetables, and greens and beans were lower among adolescents who consumed meals prepared away from home more vs. less often. However, no differences were noted among food group intakes considered good sources of nutrients of concern such as total fruit, total vegetables, whole grains, and total dairy, except for beans and peas by frequency of eating foods prepared away from home. Greater frequency of eating foods prepared away from home was associated with lower diet quality among adolescents in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adolescents.
Daily Vinegar Ingestion Improves Depression Scores and Alters the Metabolome in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Johnston Carol S. , Jasbi Paniz , Jin Yan , Bauer Shayna , Williams Susanna , Fessler Samantha N. , Gu Haiwei
Published: November 2021

Daily vinegar ingestion has been linked to improved glycemic control, but recent data suggest a separate unexplored role for vinegar in mental health. Utilizing a placebo-controlled, parallel arm study design, this 4-week trial examined the impact of daily vinegar ingestion on mood states and urinary metabolites in healthy college students. Participants were randomized to the vinegar group (VIN: n = 14; 1.5 g acetic acid/day as liquid vinegar) or the control group (CON: n = 11; 0.015 g acetic acid/day as a pill) with no change to customary diet or physical activity. At baseline and at study week four, participants completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) questionnaires and provided a first-morning urine sample for targeted metabolomics analyses. The change in both POMS depression scores and CES-D scores differed significantly between groups favoring improved affect in the VIN versus CON participants after four weeks. Metabolomics analyses pre and post-intervention suggested metabolite alterations associated with vinegar ingestion that are consistent for improved mood, including enzymatic dysfunction in the hexosamine pathway as well as significant increases in glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism. These data warrant continued investigation of vinegar as a possible agent to improve mood state.
Plant-Derived Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68 Improves Chronic Allergy Status: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Noda Masafumi , Kanno Keishi , Danshiitsoodol Narandalai , Higashikawa Fumiko , Sugiyama Masanori
Published: November 2021

We have recently demonstrated that the exopolysaccharides (EPSs) produced by a plant-derived lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68, prevent and ameliorate allergic reaction on contact in dermatitis model mice. In the present study, we conducted a clinical trial using a capsule containing spray-dried powder from pineapple juice broth fermented with the LAB strain as an experimental diet. The clinical trial was conducted as a double-blind and placebo-controlled randomized comparative study from May 2019 to July 2021. Males and females between the ages of 21 and 70 who experience chronic allergies participated in the study. Sixty subjects were instructed to orally take a capsule containing the IJH-SONE68 powder or placebo, every day for 12 weeks. After the clinical trial was over, the scores based on subjects’ self-assessment of allergic status were significantly improved in the intervention group, as compared with the placebo group. Some serum biochemicals associated with inflammation response were also significantly improved by intake of the experimental diet. In conclusion, the IJH-SONE68-derived EPS improves chronic allergy status in humans and is expected to decrease their inconvenience.
Effect of Daily Oral Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 on Exercise Capacity Recovery after a Half-Marathon
Authors: Fu Szu-Kai , Tseng Wei-Chin , Tseng Kuo-Wei , Lai Chang-Chi , Tsai Ying-Chieh , Tai Hsia-Ling , Hsu Chia-Chen
Published: November 2021

A half-marathon (HM) is a vigorous high-intensity exercise, which could induce lower extremity musculoskeletal injury risks for recreational runners. They usually consume nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in order to shorten their return to play but ignore the side effects, such as peptic ulcers and renal and vascular disorders. Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 (PS128) could improve inflammation and oxidative stress by modulating the gut microbiota, thus potentially improving muscle damage and recovery. However, few studies have addressed the PS128 exercise capacity recovery 96 h after HM. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effect of PS128 on exercise capacity and physiological adaptation after HM. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced, crossover trial was used for the experiment. HM was conducted at the beginning and end of the 4-week nutritional supplement administration. Eight recreational runners took two capsules (3 × 1010 CFU/capsule) of PS128 each morning and evening before meals for 4 weeks as the PS128 treatment (LT), or they took two capsules of placebo for 4 weeks as the placebo treatment (PT). In both treatments, an exercise capacity test (lower extremity muscle strength, anaerobic power, lower extremity explosive force, and aerobic capacity) and blood test (muscle fatigue, muscle damage, oxidative stress, and renal injury) were performed before the administration of the nutritional supplement (baseline), 48 h before HM (pre), and 0 h (0 h post), 3 h (3 h post), 24 h (24 h post), 48 h (48 h post), 72 h (72 h post), and 96 h (96 h post) after HM. There was no significant difference in the total duration of HM between PT and LT, but PT was found to be significantly higher than LT at Stage 4 (15,751–21,000 m) of HM (3394 ± 727 s vs. 2778 ± 551 s, p = 0.02). The lower extremity muscle strength measured using an isokinetic dynamometer in PT was significantly lower than that in LT at 72 h after HM. The lower extremity explosive force from the countermovement jump (CMJ) in PT was significantly decreased compared to 24 h prior. There was no significant difference between anaerobic power and aerobic capacity between the two treatments after HM. After HM, LT had lower muscle damage indices, such as myoglobin (3 h post-PT vs. -LT: 190.6 ± 118 ng/mL vs. 91.7 ± 68.6 ng/mL, p < 0.0001) and creatine phosphokinase (24 h post-PT vs. -LT: 875.8 ± 572.3 IU/L vs. 401 ± 295.7 IU/L, p < 0.0001). Blood urea nitrogen recovered in 24 h (24 h pre- vs. post-LT, p > 0.05) and higher superoxide dismutase was found in LT (96 h post-PT vs. -LT: 0.267 ± 0.088 U/mL vs. 0.462 ± 0.122 U/mL, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, PS128 supplementation was associated with an improvement in muscle damage, renal damage, and oxidative stress caused by HM through microbiota modulation and related metabolites but not in exercise capacity.
Onco-Preventive and Chemo-Protective Effects of Apple Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Nezbedova Linda , McGhie Tony , Christensen Mark , Heyes Julian , Nasef Noha Ahmed , Mehta Sunali
Published: November 2021

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Epidemiological studies have strongly linked a diet high in fruits to a lower incidence of cancer. Furthermore, extensive research shows that secondary plant metabolites known as phytochemicals, which are commonly found in fruits, have onco-preventive and chemo-protective effects. Apple is a commonly consumed fruit worldwide that is available all year round and is a rich source of phytochemicals. In this review, we summarize the association of apple consumption with cancer incidence based on findings from epidemiological and cohort studies. We further provide a comprehensive review of the main phytochemical patterns observed in apples and their bioavailability after consumption. Finally, we report on the latest findings from in vitro and in vivo studies highlighting some of the key molecular mechanisms targeted by apple phytochemicals in relation to inhibiting multiple ‘hallmarks of cancer’ that are important in the progression of cancer.
Antimicrobial Effects of Inula viscosa Extract on the In Situ Initial Oral Biofilm
Authors: Kurz Hannah , Karygianni Lamprini , Argyropoulou Aikaterini , Hellwig Elmar , Skaltsounis Alexios Leandros , Wittmer Annette , Vach Kirstin , Al-Ahmad Ali
Published: November 2021

Given the undesirable side effects of commercially used mouth rinses that include chemically synthesized antimicrobial compounds such as chlorhexidine, it is essential to discover novel antimicrobial substances based on plant extracts. The aim of this study was to examine the antimicrobial effect of Inula viscosa extract on the initial microbial adhesion in the oral cavity. Individual test splints were manufactured for the participants, on which disinfected bovine enamel samples were attached. After the initial microbial adhesion, the biofilm-covered oral samples were removed and treated with different concentrations (10, 20, and 30 mg/mL) of an I. viscosa extract for 10 min. Positive and negative controls were also sampled. Regarding the microbiological parameters, the colony-forming units (CFU) and vitality testing (live/dead staining) were examined in combination with fluorescence microscopy. An I. viscosa extract with a concentration of 30 mg/mL killed the bacteria of the initial adhesion at a rate of 99.99% (log10 CFU value of 1.837 ± 1.54). Compared to the negative control, no killing effects were determined after treatment with I. viscosa extract at concentrations of 10 mg/mL (log10 CFU value 3.776 ± 0.831; median 3.776) and 20 mg/mL (log10 CFU value 3.725 ± 0.300; median 3.711). The live/dead staining revealed a significant reduction (p < 0.0001) of vital adherent bacteria after treatment with 10 mg/mL of I. viscosa extract. After treatment with an I. viscosa extract with a concentration of 30 mg/mL, no vital bacteria could be detected. For the first time, significant antimicrobial effects on the initial microbial adhesion in in situ oral biofilms were reported for an I. viscosa extract.
Using Dietary Macronutrient Patterns to Predict Sarcopenic Obesity in Older Adults: A Representative Korean Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Lee Jun-Hyuk , Park Hye-Min , Lee Yong-Jae
Published: November 2021

Older adults with sarcopenic obesity (SO) are at increased risk of adverse health outcomes. It has not been identified which pattern of macronutrient intake is appropriate in relation to SO. We aimed to compare the patterns of macronutrient intake for predicting SO in older adults. Data from a total of 3828 older adults who participated in the 2008–2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. The one-day 24 h dietary recall method was used to assess macronutrient intake. SO was defined by a combination of body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 and BMI adjusted-appendicular skeletal muscle mass <0.789 for men and <0.512 for women. Weighted logistic regression analysis revealed the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for SO of total calorie intake per 100 increments and carbohydrate (CHO) intake (g/kg/day) per 1 increment to be 0.95 (0.91–0.99) and 0.83 (0.74–0.94), respectively, after adjusting for confounding variables in women. The predictive power for SO of CHO intake (g/kg/day) was higher compared with the other patterns of macronutrient intake both in men and women. In conclusion, total calorie intake and CHO intake (g/kg/day) are inversely related to SO in women. CHO intake (g/kg/day) could be the best index for determining SO.
Why Do Women with Eating Disorders Decline Treatment? A Qualitative Study of Barriers to Specialized Eating Disorder Treatment
Authors: Andersen Sofie T. , Linkhorst Thea , Gildberg Frederik A. , Sjögren Magnus
Published: November 2021

Despite the fact that eating disorders (EDs) are conditions that are potentially life-threatening, many people decline treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate why women decline specialized ED treatment, including their viewpoints on treatment services. Eighteen semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with women who had declined inpatient or outpatient specialized ED treatment. A thematic analysis revealed five main themes: (1) Disagreement on treatment needs, (2) rigid standard procedures, (3) failure to listen, (4) deprivation of identity, and (5) mistrust and fear. The women had declined ED treatment because they believed that treatment was only focused on nutritional rehabilitation and that it failed to address their self-identified needs. From their perspectives treatment was characterized by rigid standard procedures that could not be adapted to their individual situations and preferences. They felt that the therapists failed to listen to them, and they felt deprived of identity and reduced to an ED instead of a real person. This investigation is one of the first of its kind to provide clues as to how treatment could be moderated to better meet the needs of women who decline specialized ED treatment.
Does Folic Acid Protect Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease from Complications?
Authors: Ratajczak Alicja Ewa , Szymczak-Tomczak Aleksandra , Rychter Anna Maria , Zawada Agnieszka , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Krela-Kaźmierczak Iwona
Published: November 2021

Folic acid, referred to as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble substance, which participates in the synthesis of nucleic acids, amino acids, and proteins. Similarly to B12 and B6, vitamin B9 is involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, which is associated with the MTHFR gene. The human body is not able to synthesize folic acid; thus, it must be supplemented with diet. The most common consequence of folic acid deficiency is anemia; however, some studies have also demonstrated the correlation between low bone mineral density, hyperhomocysteinemia, and folic acid deficiency. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) frequently suffer from malabsorption and avoid certain products, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, which constitute the main sources of vitamin B9. Additionally, the use of sulfasalazine by patients may result in folic acid deficiency. Therefore, IBD patients present a higher risk of folic acid deficiency and require particular supervision with regard to anemia and osteoporosis prevention, which are common consequences of IBD.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Its Association with the Level of Physical Activity in Fitness Center Users: Croatian-Based Study
Authors: Martinovic Dinko , Tokic Daria , Martinovic Lovre , Kumric Marko , Vilovic Marino , Rusic Doris , Vrdoljak Josip , Males Ivan , Ticinovic Kurir Tina , Lupi-Ferandin Slaven , Bozic Josko
Published: November 2021

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is based on the traditional cuisine of south European countries, and it is considered one of the healthiest dietary patterns worldwide. The promotion of combined MD and physical activity has shown major benefits. However, the association between physical activity and the MD in regular fitness center users is still insufficiently investigated. This cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted on 1220 fitness center users in Croatia. The survey consisted of three parts: general information, the Mediterranean Diet Serving Score (MDSS) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF). The results showed that 18.6% of fitness center users were adherent to the MD, and there was a significant positive correlation between the level of physical activity and the MDSS score (r = 0.302, p < 0.001). Moreover, after dividing the sample into tertiles based on the IPAQ-SF score, the third tertile (MET > 3150 min/wk) had the most fitness center users (34.4%) adherent to the MD, while the first tertile (MET < 1750 min/wk) had the least (6.1%). These outcomes emphasize the importance of physical activity as they imply that, with higher levels of physical activity, people are also possibly more aware of the importance that a healthy and balanced diet has on their well-being.
Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Modification Program Delivered under Real-World Conditions in a Rural Setting
Authors: Jennings Cally , Patterson Elsie , Curtis Rachel G. , Mazzacano Anna , Maher Carol A.
Published: November 2021

Whilst there is considerable evidence to support the efficacy of physical activity and dietary interventions in disease and death prevention, translation of knowledge into practice remains inadequate. We aimed to examine the uptake, retention, acceptability and effectiveness on physical activity, physical function, sitting time, diet and health outcomes of a Healthy Eating Activity and Lifestyle program (HEALTM) delivered under real-world conditions. The program was delivered to 430 adults living across rural South Australia. Participants of the program attended weekly 2 h healthy lifestyle education and exercise group-based sessions for 8 weeks. A total of 47 programs were delivered in over 15 communities. In total, 548 referrals were received, resulting in 430 participants receiving the intervention (78% uptake). At baseline, 74.6% of participants were female, the mean age of participants was 53.7 years and 11.1% of participants identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Follow-up assessments were obtained for 265 participants. Significant improvements were observed for walking, planned physical activity, incidental physical activity, total physical activity, 30 s chair stand, 30 s arm curl, 6 min walk, fruit consumption and vegetable consumption, sitting time and diastolic blood pressure. Positive satisfaction and favourable feedback were reported. The healthy lifestyle program achieved excellent real-world uptake and effectiveness, reasonable intervention attendance and strong program acceptability amongst rural and vulnerable communities.
Sarcopenic Dysphagia: A Narrative Review from Diagnosis to Intervention
Authors: Chen Kuan-Cheng , Jeng Ying , Wu Wei-Ting , Wang Tyng-Guey , Han Der-Sheng , Özçakar Levent , Chang Ke-Vin
Published: November 2021

Sarcopenia, defined as a decline in muscle mass and function related to aging, affects both limb and swallowing-related muscles. Sarcopenic dysphagia is characterized by decreased swallowing function; therefore, early detection of subclinical dysphagia and subsequent intervention appear to be crucial in the elderly. Numerous tools have been employed to measure the function, strength, and mass of swallowing-related muscles in sarcopenic elderly. The swallowing function can be evaluated by questionnaires like Eating Assessment Tool, Functional Oral Intake Scale, and Food Intake Level Scale, and tests such as the modified water swallowing test and videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Surface electromyography and high-resolution manometry can be applied for quantifying swallowing-related muscle strength. Modalities such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging are capable of estimating the swallowing muscle mass. In patients with sarcopenic dysphagia, a thorough assessment should be given followed by an integrated intervention combining swallowing muscle strengthening, nutrition support, food texture modification, physical, and occupational therapies. This article aimed to comprehensively summarize the diagnostic criteria/tools as well as their associations/performance in sarcopenic dysphagia. The intervention strategy will also be narrated in this review.
Evolution of Metabolic Phenotypes of Obesity in Coronary Patients after 5 Years of Dietary Intervention: From the CORDIOPREV Study
Authors: Martin-Piedra Laura , Alcala-Diaz Juan F. , Gutierrez-Mariscal Francisco M. , Arenas de Larriva Antonio P. , Romero-Cabrera Juan L. , Torres-Peña Jose D. , Caballero-Villarraso Javier , Luque Raul M. , Perez-Martinez Pablo , Lopez-Miranda Jose , Delgado-Lista Javier
Published: November 2021

Background: Obesity phenotypes with different metabolic status have been described previously. We analyzed metabolic phenotypes in obese coronary patients during a 5-year follow-up, and examined the factors influencing this evolution. Methods: The CORDIOPREV study is a randomized, long-term secondary prevention study with two healthy diets: Mediterranean and low-fat. All obese patients were classified as either metabolically healthy obese (MHO) or metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). We evaluated the changes in the metabolic phenotypes and related variables after 5 years of dietary intervention. Results: Initially, 562 out of the 1002 CORDIOPREV patients were obese. After 5 years, 476 obese patients maintained their clinical and dietary visits; 71.8% of MHO patients changed to unhealthy phenotypes (MHO-Progressors), whereas the MHO patients who maintained healthy phenotypes (MHO-Non-Progressors) lost more in terms of their body mass index (BMI) and had a lower fatty liver index (FLI-score) (p < 0.05). Most of the MUO (92%) patients maintained unhealthy phenotypes (MUO-Non-Responders), but 8% became metabolically healthy (MUO-Responders) after a significant decrease in their BMI and FLI-score, with improvement in all metabolic criteria. No differences were found among dietary groups. Conclusions: A greater loss of weight and liver fat is associated with a lower progression of the MHO phenotype to unhealthy phenotypes. Likewise, a marked improvement in these parameters is associated with regression from MUO to healthy phenotypes.
Resistant Starch Consumption Effects on Glycemic Control and Glycemic Variability in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Arias-Córdova Yolanda , Ble-Castillo Jorge Luis , García-Vázquez Carlos , Olvera-Hernández Viridiana , Ramos-García Meztli , Navarrete-Cortes Adrián , Jiménez-Domínguez Guadalupe , Juárez-Rojop Isela Esther , Tovilla-Zárate Carlos Alfonso , Martínez-López Mirian Carolina , Méndez José D.
Published: November 2021

We previously observed beneficial effects of native banana starch (NBS) with a high resistant starch (RS) content on glycemic response in lean and obese participants. Here, we aimed to determine the effects of NBS and high-amylose maize starch (HMS) on glycemic control (GC) and glycemic variability (GV) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) when treatments were matched for digestible starch content. In a randomized, crossover study, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was performed in 17 participants (aged 28–65 years, BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, both genders) consuming HMS, NBS, or digestible maize starch (DMS) for 4 days. HMS and NBS induced an increase in 24 h mean blood glucose during days 2 to 4 (p < 0.05). CONGA, GRADE, and J-index values were higher in HMS compared with DMS only at day 4 (p < 0.05). Yet, NBS intake provoked a reduction in fasting glycemia changes from baseline compared with DMS (p = 0.0074). In conclusion, under the experimental conditions, RS from two sources did not improve GC or GV. Future longer studies are needed to determine whether these findings were affected by a different baseline microbiota or other environmental factors.
Comment on Rosell-Cardona et al. Dietary Spray-Dried Porcine Plasma Reduces Neuropathological Alzheimer’s Disease Hallmarks in SAMP8 Mice. Nutrients 2021, 13, 2369
Authors: Nifli Artemissia-Phoebe
Published: November 2021

Interventions focusing on dementia risk and/or dementia modification in association with senescence are essential, given the unfavourable demographics [...]
Associations between Maternal Dietary Patterns and Infant Birth Weight in the NISAMI Cohort: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: da Mota Santana Jerusa , de Oliveira Queiroz Valterlinda Alves , Pereira Marcos , Paixão Enny S. , Brito Sheila Monteiro , dos Santos Djanilson Barbosa , Oliveira Ana Marlucia
Published: November 2021

The mother’s diet during pregnancy is associated with maternal and child health. However, there are few studies with moderation analysis on maternal dietary patterns and infant birth weight. We aim to analyse the association between dietary patterns during pregnancy and birth weight. A prospective cohort study was performed with pregnant women registered with the prenatal service (Bahia, Brazil). A food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate dietary intake. Birth weight was measured by a prenatal service team. Statistical analyses were performed using factor analysis with a principal component extraction technique and structural equation modelling. The mean age of the pregnant women was 27 years old (SD: 5.5) and the mean birth weight was 3341.18 g. It was observed that alcohol consumption (p = 0.05) and weight-gain during pregnancy (p = 0.05) were associated with birth weight. Four patterns of dietary consumption were identified for each trimester of the pregnancy evaluated. Adherence to the “Meat, Eggs, Fried Snacks and Processed foods” dietary pattern (pattern 1) and the “Sugars and Sweets” dietary pattern (pattern 4) in the third trimester directly reduced birth weight, by 98.42 g (Confidence interval (CI) 95%: 24.26, 172.59) and 92.03 g (CI 95%: 39.88, 165.30), respectively. It was also observed that insufficient dietary consumption in the third trimester increases maternal complications during pregnancy, indirectly reducing birth weight by 145 g (CI 95%: −21.39, −211.45). Inadequate dietary intake in the third trimester appears to have negative results on birth weight, directly and indirectly, but more studies are needed to clarify these causal paths, especially investigations of the influence of the maternal dietary pattern on the infant gut microbiota and the impacts on perinatal outcomes.
Evaluation of the Chagas Western Blot IgG Assay for the Diagnosis of Chagas Disease
Authors: Brossas Jean-Yves , Griselda Ballering , Bisio Margarita , Guihenneuc Jeremy , Gulin Julián Ernesto Nicolás , Jauréguiberry Stéphane , Lescure François-Xavier , Fekkar Arnaud , Mazier Dominique , Altcheh Jaime , Paris Luc
Published: November 2021

Chagas disease is a debilitating and often fatal pathology resulting from infection by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. In its recommendations, the World Health Organization states that the diagnosis of T. cruzi infection is usually based on the detection of antibodies against T. cruzi antigens and performed with two methodologically different assays. An inconclusive result can be resolved with a third “confirmatory” assay. The objective of this article is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Chagas Western Blot IgG assay (LDBio Diagnostics, Lyon, France) as a confirmatory serologic test. The Chagas Western Blot IgG assay was performed with native antigens derived from a T. cruzi strain of the TcVI genotype. Retrospective sera were provided by two parasitology laboratories (France and Argentina). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the Chagas blot were all 100% in our sera collection. The Chagas blot is an easy and qualitative method for the diagnosis of Chagas disease, with results in less than 2 h. This immunoblot has potential as a supplemental test for the confirmation of the presence of antibodies against T. cruzi in serum specimens. Nonetheless, the very good initial results presented here will need to be confirmed in larger studies.
Epidemiology of Human Bocavirus in the Middle East and North Africa: Systematic Review
Authors: Abdelqader Rana , Hasan Hanan , Alanagreh Lo’ai
Published: November 2021

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of studying newly emerging viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. Human bocavirus (HBoV) is one of the relatively newly discovered viruses that has been detected worldwide and causes respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, mainly in pediatric patients. However, little is known about the pathogenicity and evolution of HBoV. This systematic review was initiated to clarify the prevalence and circulating genotypes of HBoV in both respiratory and stool samples from patients of all age groups in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) from 2005 to February 2021. We performed an electronic search through Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Mendeley and Cochrane Library databases. We included all studies reporting the detection rate of HBoV in the MENA region. Data were extracted, and the quality of the included articles was assessed. We included articles containing data on HBoV only or with other respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infections. Review articles, case studies, and animal and environmental studies were excluded. The final number of articles included in this study was 65 articles. The results showed that the HBoV prevalence in children was the lowest in Iran (0%) and the highest in Egypt (56.8%). In adults, the lowest and the highest prevalence were reported in Iran, with values of 0% and 6.6%, respectively. Regarding the respiratory cases, our findings revealed no significant difference between HBoV prevalence among the tested categories (p-value = 0.998). The present study has shown that HBoV is common in children and adults in the MENA region. This systematic review highlights the need for more data on the role of coinfection of HBoV and other viruses, for instance, SARS-CoV-2 in children with acute bronchiolitis.
Kinetic Changes of Peripheral Blood Monocyte Subsets and Expression of Co-Stimulatory Molecules during Acute Dengue Virus Infection
Authors: Lertjuthaporn Sakaorat , Keawvichit Rassamon , Polsrila Korakot , Sukapirom Kasama , Chuansumrit Ampaiwan , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya , Ansari Aftab A. , Khowawisetsut Ladawan , Pattanapanyasat Kovit
Published: November 2021

Monocytes, one of the main target cells for dengue virus (DENV) infection, contribute to the resolution of viremia and to pathogenesis. We performed a longitudinal study by a detailed phenotypic comparison of classical (CD14++CD16−, non-classical (CD14+CD16++) and intermediate (CD14++CD16+) monocyte subsets in blood samples from dengue fever (DF) to the severe dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and healthy individuals. Various costimulatory molecules of CD40, CD80, CD86 and inducible costimulatory ligand (ICOSL) expressed on these three monocyte subsets were also analyzed. DENV-infected patients showed an increase in the frequency of intermediate monocytes and a decrease in the classical monocytes when compared to healthy individuals. Although these differences did not correlate with disease severity, changes during the early phase of infection gradually returned to normal in the defervescence phase. Moreover, decreased frequency of classical monocytes was associated with a significant up-regulation of co-stimulatory molecules CD40, CD86 and ICOSL. Kinetics of these co-stimulatory molecule-expressing classical monocytes showed different patterns throughout the sampling times of acute DENV infection. Different distribution of monocyte subsets and their co-stimulatory molecules in the peripheral blood during acute infection might exacerbate immune responses like cytokine storms and ADE, and future studies on intracellular molecular pathways utilized by these monocyte linages are warranted.
Insights into the SARS-CoV-2-Mediated Alteration in the Stress Granule Protein Regulatory Networks in Humans
Authors: Prasad Kartikay , Alasmari Abdullah F. , Ali Nemat , Khan Rehan , Alghamdi Adel , Kumar Vijay
Published: November 2021

The rapidly and constantly evolving coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, imposes a great threat to human health causing severe lung disease and significant mortality. Cytoplasmic stress granules (SGs) exert anti-viral activities due to their involvement in translation inhibition and innate immune signaling. SARS-CoV-2 sequesters important SG nucleator proteins and impairs SG formation, thus evading the host response for efficient viral replication. However, the significance of SGs in COVID-19 infection remains elusive. In this study, we utilize a protein-protein interaction network approach to systematically dissect the crosstalk of human post-translational regulatory networks governed by SG proteins due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. We uncovered that 116 human SG proteins directly interact with SARS-CoV-2 proteins and are involved in 430 different brain disorders including COVID-19. Further, we performed gene set enrichment analysis to identify the drugs against three important key SG proteins (DYNC1H1, DCTN1, and LMNA) and also looked for potential microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting these proteins. We identified bexarotene as a potential drug molecule and miRNAs, hsa-miR-615-3p, hsa-miR-221-3p, and hsa-miR-124-3p as potential candidates for the treatment of COVID-19 and associated manifestations.
Expression Patterns of miR398, miR167, and miR159 in the Interaction between Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Pathogenic Fusarium culmorum and Beneficial Trichoderma Fungi
Authors: Salamon Sylwia , Żok Julia , Gromadzka Karolina , Błaszczyk Lidia
Published: November 2021

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an agronomically significant cereal cultivated worldwide. Wheat breeding is limited by numerous abiotic and biotic stresses. One of the most deleterious factors is biotic stress provoked by the Fusarium culmorum fungus. This pathogen is a causative agent of Fusarium root rot and Fusarium head blight. Beneficial fungi Trichoderma atroviride and T. cremeum are strong antagonists of mycotoxigenic Fusarium spp. These fungi promote plant growth and enhance their tolerance of negative environmental conditions. The aim of the study was to determine and compare the spatial (in above- and underground organs) and temporal (early: 6 and 22 hpi; and late: 5 and 7 dpi reactions) expression profiles of three mature miRNAs (miR398, miR167, and miR159) in wheat plants inoculated with two strains of F. culmorum (KF846 and EW49). Moreover, the spatial expression patterns in wheat response between plants inoculated with beneficial T. atroviride (AN35) and T. cremeum (AN392) were assessed. Understanding the sophisticated role of miRNAs in wheat–fungal interactions may initiate a discussion concerning the use of this knowledge to protect wheat plants from the harmful effects of fungal pathogens. With the use of droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), the absolute quantification of the selected miRNAs in the tested material was carried out. The differential accumulation of miR398, miR167, and miR159 in the studied groups was observed. The abundance of all analyzed miRNAs in the roots demonstrated an increase in the early and reduction in late wheat response to F. culmorum inoculation, suggesting the role of these particles in the initial wheat reaction to the studied fungal pathogen. The diverse expression patterns of the studied miRNAs between Trichoderma–inoculated or F. culmorum–inoculated plants and control wheat, as well as between Trichoderma–inoculated and F. culmorum–inoculated plants, were noticed, indicating the need for further analysis.
Development of a Multiplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for the Detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia Species
Authors: Maggi Ricardo , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Qurollo Barbara , Miller Jennifer C.
Published: November 2021

We describe the development, optimization, and validation of a multiplex droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay for the simultaneous detection of Babesia, Bartonella, and Borrelia spp. DNA from several sample matrices, including clinical blood samples from animals and humans, vectors, in-vitro infected human and animal cell lines, and tissues obtained from animal models (infected with Bartonella and/or B. burgdorferi). The multiplex ddPCR assay was able to detect 31 Bartonella, 13 Borrelia, and 24 Babesia species, including Theileria equi, T. cervi, and Cytauxzoon felis. No amplification of Treponema or Leptospira spp. was observed. Sensitivity of 0.2–5 genome equivalent DNA copies per microliter was achieved for different members of the Bartonella and Borrelia genus, depending on the species or matrix type (water or spiked blood DNA) tested. The ddPCR assay facilitated the simultaneous detection of co-infections with two and three vector-borne pathogens comprising four different genera (Babesia, Bartonella, Borrelia, and Theileria) from clinical and other sample sources.
On and Off: Epigenetic Regulation of C. albicans Morphological Switches
Authors: Iracane Elise , Vega-Estévez Samuel , Buscaino Alessia
Published: November 2021

The human fungal pathogen Candida albicans is a dimorphic opportunistic pathogen that colonises most of the human population without creating any harm. However, this fungus can also cause life-threatening infections in immunocompromised individuals. The ability to successfully colonise different host niches is critical for establishing infections and pathogenesis. C. albicans can live and divide in various morphological forms critical for its survival in the host. Indeed, C. albicans can grow as both yeast and hyphae and can form biofilms containing hyphae. The transcriptional regulatory network governing the switching between these different forms is complex but well understood. In contrast, non-DNA based epigenetic modulation is emerging as a crucial but still poorly studied regulatory mechanism of morphological transition. This review explores our current understanding of chromatin-mediated epigenetic regulation of the yeast to hyphae switch and biofilm formation. We highlight how modification of chromatin structure and non-coding RNAs contribute to these morphological transitions.
Application of TaqMan Real-Time PCR for Detecting ‘Candidatus Arsenophonus Phytopathogenicus’ Infection in Sugar Beet
Authors: Zübert Christina , Kube Michael
Published: November 2021

The γ-proteobacterium ‘Candidatus Arsenophonus phytopathogenicus’ is assigned as the major pathogen of “Syndrome des basses richesses”, a sugar beet disease characterised by a reduction in the sugar content of taproots and biomass yield. Despite the economic impact of this bacteriosis, diagnostics for this important pathogen currently rely on end-point PCR detection. Herein, we introduce a TaqMan qPCR for diagnostics of the agent targeting genes encoding a heat shock protein of the Hsp20 family and mannose-6-phosphate isomerase. Quantitation with synthetic oligonucleotides as standard showed that the developed TaqMan qPCR assays enable the detection of up to 100 target copies. A comparison between the TaqMan qPCR and end-point PCR for ‘Ca. A. phytopathogenicus’ detection was carried out on 78 sugar beet samples from different locations in southern Germany. The newly developed assays enable the fast, reliable and sensitive detection of ‘Ca. A. phytopathogenicus’ in sugar beet.
Demographic, Husbandry, and Biosecurity Factors Associated with the Presence of Campylobacter spp. in Small Poultry Flocks in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Schweitzer Paige M. , Susta Leonardo , Varga Csaba , Brash Marina L. , Guerin Michele T.
Published: November 2021

This study is part of a 2 year disease surveillance project conducted to establish the prevalence of poultry and zoonotic pathogens, including Campylobacter spp., among small poultry flocks in Ontario, Canada. For each post-mortem submission to the Animal Health Laboratory, a pooled sample of cecal tissue was cultured for Campylobacter spp., and a husbandry and biosecurity questionnaire was completed by the flock owner (n = 153). Using both laboratory and questionnaire data, our objective was to investigate demographic, husbandry, and biosecurity factors associated with the presence of Campylobacter spp. in small flocks. Two multivariable logistic regression models were built. In the farm model, the odds of Campylobacter spp. were higher in turkeys, and when birds were housed in a mixed group with different species and/or types of birds. The odds were lower when antibiotics were used within the last 12 months, and when birds had at least some free-range access. The effect of pest control depended on the number of birds at risk. In the coop model, the odds of Campylobacter spp. were lower when owners wore dedicated clothing when entering the coop. These results can be used to limit the transmission of Campylobacter spp. from small poultry flocks to humans.
Enzootic Bovine Leukosis in Italy: Epidemiological Issues after Free Status Recognition and Measures Applied to Tackle the Last Persistent Clusters
Authors: Righi Cecilia , Iscaro Carmen , Petrini Stefano , Lomolino Roberto , Feliziani Francesco
Published: November 2021

Enzootic Bovine Leukosis (EBL), caused by the bovine leukemia virus (BLV), has been eradicated in over 20 countries, most of which are in Western Europe. The European Commission, in 2017, declared Italy to be an officially EBL-free country by means of Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2017/1910, despite the presence of some infection clusters located in four regions of Central-Southern Italy. As a consequence of persisting infection, the Italian Ministry of Health established specific eradication measures in these areas. In collaboration with the National Reference Laboratory for the Study of Ruminant Retroviral Infectious Diseases, the Ministry of Health employed data from the veterinary information system digital platform, combined with a gap analysis exercise, to monitor and verify the progress of control activities within infection clusters during the period 2018–2021. Our aim was to identify any remaining gaps and, consequently, specific measures to eliminate the factors favouring EBL persistence, on the basis of a description and analysis of the current data regarding epidemiological trends in Italian clusters. The final goal is to achieve the implementation of a less expensive surveillance plan in these areas, as well. The results of comprehensive analysis showed that the eradication activities had been effectively implemented by official local veterinary services, resulting in a drastic reduction of EBL outbreaks in most territories during the period 2018–2021.
An Evaluation of the Potential of Essential Oils against SARS-CoV-2 from In Silico Studies through the Systematic Review Using a Chemometric Approach
Authors: Torres Neto Luiz , Monteiro Maria Lúcia Guerra , Galvan Diego , Conte-Junior Carlos Adam
Published: November 2021

Essential oils (EOs) and their compounds have attracted particular attention for their reported beneficial properties, especially their antiviral potential. However, data regarding their anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential are scarce in the literature. Thus, this study aimed to identify the most promising EO compounds against SARS-CoV-2 based on their physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity properties. A systematic literature search retrieved 1669 articles; 40 met the eligibility criteria, and 35 were eligible for analysis. These studies resulted in 465 EO compounds evaluated against 11 human and/or SARS-CoV-2 target proteins. Ninety-four EO compounds and seven reference drugs were clustered by the highest predicted binding affinity. Furthermore, 41 EO compounds showed suitable drug-likeness and bioactivity score indices (≥0.67). Among these EO compounds, 15 were considered the most promising against SARS-CoV-2 with the ADME/T index ranging from 0.86 to 0.81. Some plant species were identified as EO potential sources with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, such as Melissa officinalis Arcang, Zataria multiflora Boiss, Eugenia brasiliensis Cambess, Zingiber zerumbet Triboun & K.Larsen, Cedrus libani A.Rich, and Vetiveria zizanoides Nash. Our work can help fill the gap in the literature and guide further in vitro and in vivo studies, intending to optimize the finding of effective EOs against COVID-19.
Choroidal Volume Evaluation after Photodynamic Therapy Using New Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging Algorithm
Authors: Sato-Akushichi Miki , Ono Shinji , Klose Gerd , Song Youngseok
Published: November 2021

To evaluate choroidal volume and thickness changes after photodynamic therapy (PDT) for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Chronic CSC eyes with a history of PDT were selected. Average choroidal volume, average choroidal thickness, the maximum and minimum choroidal thickness of the macula irradiated area and peripheral non-irradiated areas before and after one and three months of treatment were examined. A total of 14 patients with chronic CSC and 9 controls without any eye pathology were enrolled. The mean choroidal volume in CSC before and, and after one and three months of treatment were 2.36 (standard deviation: 0.70), 1.90 (0.69), 1.86 (0.66) mm3 for the central area, 1.25 (0.38), 1.14 (0.35), 1.13 (0.34) mm3 for superior nasal area, 1.47 (0.41), 1.28 (0.43), 1.26 (0.43) mm3 for superior temporal area, 1.07 (0.49), 0.95 (0.38), 0.93 (0.35) mm3 for inferior nasal area, 1.17 (0.38), 1.04 (0.32), 1.03 (0.33) mm3 for inferior temporal area. This study revealed the choroidal volume changes in a short period after PDT and a decrease in unirradiated choroidal volume was also shown after the treatment. The algorithm provided on the ARI Network enables to evaluate the choroidal changes quantitatively and qualitatively.