bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potentially Bioactive Fungus Mediated Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Baker Abu , Iram Sana , Syed Asad , Elgorban Abdallah M. , Al-Falih Abdullah Msaad , Bahkali Ali H. , Khan Mohd Sajid , Kim Jihoe
Published: December 2021

Fungal metabolites, proteins, and enzymes have been rich sources of therapeutics so far. Therefore, in this study, the hypha extract of a newly identified noble fungus (Alternaria sp. with NCBI Accession number: MT982648) was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (F-AgNPs) to utilize against bacteria, fungi, and lung cancer. F-AgNPs were characterized by using physical techniques, including UV–visible spectroscopy, zeta potential, DLS, XRD, TEM, and HR-TEM. The particles were found to be polydispersed and quasi-spherical in shape under TEM. They had an average size of ~15 nm. The well dispersed particles were found to have consistent crystallinity with cubic phase geometry under XRD and HR-TEM. The presence of different functional groups on the surfaces of biosynthesized F-AgNPs was confirmed by FTIR. The particle distribution index was found to be 0.447 with a hydrodynamic diameter of ~47 d.nm, and the high value of zeta potential (−20.3 mV) revealed the stability of the nanoemulsion. These particles were found to be active against Staphylococcus aureus (multidrug resistance-MDR), Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella abony, and Escherichia coli (MDR) with MIC50 10.3, 12.5, 22.69, and 16.25 µg/mL, respectively. Particles also showed inhibition against fungal strains, including A. flavus, A. niger, T. viridens, and F. oxysporium. Their inhibition of biofilm formation by the same panel of bacteria was also found to be very promising and ranged from 16.66 to 64.81%. F-AgNPs also showed anticancer potential (IC50—21.6 µg/mL) with respect to methotrexate (IC50—17.7 µg/mL) against lung cancer cell line A549, and they did not result in any significant inhibition of the normal cell line BEAS-2. The particles were found to alter the mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby disturbing ATP synthesis and leading to high ROS formation, which are responsible for cell membrane damage and release of LDH, intracellular proteins, lipids, and DNA. A high level of ROS also elicits pro-inflammatory signaling cascades that lead to programmed cell death by either apoptosis or necrosis.
Amorphous MoSxOy/h-BNxOy Nanohybrids: Synthesis and Dye Photodegradation
Authors: Matveev Andrei T. , Konopatsky Anton S. , Leybo Denis V. , Volkov Ilia N. , Kovalskii Andrey M. , Varlamova Liubov A. , Sorokin Pavel B. , Fang Xiaosheng , Kulinich Sergei A. , Shtansky Dmitry V.
Published: December 2021

Molybdenum sulfide is a very promising catalyst for the photodegradation of organic pollutants in water. Its photocatalytic activity arises from unsaturated sulfur bonds, and it increases with the introduction of structural defects and/or oxygen substitutions. Amorphous molybdenum sulfide (a-MoSxOy) with oxygen substitutions has many active sites, which create favorable conditions for enhanced catalytic activity. Here we present a new approach to the synthesis of a-MoSxOy and demonstrate its high activity in the photodegradation of the dye methylene blue (MB). The MoSxOy was deposited on hexagonal boron oxynitride (h-BNO) nanoflakes by reacting h-BNO, MoCl5, and H2S in dimethylformamide (DMF) at 250 °C. Both X-ray diffraction analysis and high-resolution TEM show the absence of crystalline order in a-MoSxOy. Based on the results of Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, as well as analysis by the density functional theory (DFT) method, a chain structure of a-MoSxOy was proposed, consisting of MoS3 clusters with partial substitution of sulfur by oxygen. When a third of the sulfur atoms are replaced with oxygen, the band gap of a-MoSxOy is approximately 1.36 eV, and the valence and conduction bands are 0.74 eV and −0.62 eV, respectively (relative to a standard hydrogen electrode), which satisfies the conditions of photoinduced splitting of water. When illuminated with a mercury lamp, a-MoSxOy/h-BNxOy nanohybrids have a specific mass activity in MB photodegradation of approximately 5.51 mmol g−1 h−1, which is at least four times higher than so far reported values for nonmetal catalysts. The photocatalyst has been shown to be very stable and can be reused.
Boron Modified Bifunctional Cu/SiO2 Catalysts with Enhanced Metal Dispersion and Surface Acid Sites for Selective Hydrogenation of Dimethyl Oxalate to Ethylene Glycol and Ethanol
Authors: Yang Deliang , Ye Runping , Lin Ling , Guo Rong , Zhao Peiyu , Yin Yanchao , Cheng Wei , Yuan Wenpeng , Yao Yuangen
Published: December 2021

Boron (B) promoter modified Cu/SiO2 bifunctional catalysts were synthesized by sol-gel method and used to produce ethylene glycol (EG) and ethanol (EtOH) through efficient hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate (DMO). Experimental results showed that boron promoter could significantly improve the catalytic performance by improving the structural characteristics of the Cu/SiO2 catalysts. The optimized 2B-Cu/SiO2 catalyst exhibited excellent low temperature catalytic activity and long-term stability, maintaining the average EG selectivity (Sel.EG) of 95% at 190 °C, and maintaining the average EtOH selectivity (Sel.EtOH) of 88% at 260 °C, with no decrease even after reaction of 150 h, respectively. Characterization results revealed that doping with boron promoter could significantly increase the copper dispersion, enhance the metal-support interaction, maintain suitable Cu+/(Cu+ + Cu0) ratio, and diminish metallic copper particles during the hydrogenation of DMO. Thus, this work introduced a bifunctional boron promoter, which could not only improve the copper dispersion, reduce the formation of bulk copper oxide, but also properly enhance the acidity of the sample surface, so that the Cu/SiO2 sample could exhibit superior EG selectivity at low temperature, as well as improving the EtOH selectivity at high temperature.
Efficient Near-Infrared-Activated Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution from Ammonia Borane with Core-Shell Upconversion-Semiconductor Hybrid Nanostructures
Authors: Evangelista Andrew J. , Ivanchenko Mariia , Jing Hao
Published: December 2021

In this work, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from ammonia borane under near-infrared laser irradiation at ambient temperature was demonstrated by using the novel core-shell upconversion-semiconductor hybrid nanostructures (NaGdF4:Yb3+/Er3+@NaGdF4@Cu2O). The particles were successfully synthesized in a final concentration of 10 mg/mL. The particles were characterized via high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), photoluminescence, energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), and powder X-ray diffraction. The near-infrared-driven photocatalytic activities of such hybrid nanoparticles are remarkably higher than that with bare upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) under the same irradiation. The upconverted photoluminescence of UCNPs efficiently reabsorbed by Cu2O promotes the charge separation in the semiconducting shell, and facilitates the formation of photoinduced electrons and hydroxyl radicals generated via the reaction between H2O and holes. Both serve as reactive species on the dissociation of the weak B-N bond in an aqueous medium, to produce hydrogen under near-infrared excitation, resulting in enhanced photocatalytic activities. The photocatalyst of NaGdF4:Yb3+/Er3+@NaGdF4@Cu2O (UCNPs@Cu2O) suffered no loss of efficacy after several cycles. This work sheds light on the rational design of near-infrared-activated photocatalysts, and can be used as a proof-of-concept for on-board hydrogen generation from ammonia borane under near-infrared illumination, with the aim of green energy suppliers.
Manipulation on Two-Dimensional Amorphous Nanomaterials for Enhanced Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Liu Juzhe , Hao Rui , Jia Binbin , Zhao Hewei , Guo Lin
Published: December 2021

Low-carbon society is calling for advanced electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems and techniques, in which functional electrode materials are a core factor. As a new member of the material family, two-dimensional amorphous nanomaterials (2D ANMs) are booming gradually and show promising application prospects in electrochemical fields for extended specific surface area, abundant active sites, tunable electron states, and faster ion transport capacity. Specifically, their flexible structures provide significant adjustment room that allows readily and desirable modification. Recent advances have witnessed omnifarious manipulation means on 2D ANMs for enhanced electrochemical performance. Here, this review is devoted to collecting and summarizing the manipulation strategies of 2D ANMs in terms of component interaction and geometric configuration design, expecting to promote the controllable development of such a new class of nanomaterial. Our view covers the 2D ANMs applied in electrochemical fields, including battery, supercapacitor, and electrocatalysis, meanwhile we also clarify the relationship between manipulation manner and beneficial effect on electrochemical properties. Finally, we conclude the review with our personal insights and provide an outlook for more effective manipulation ways on functional and practical 2D ANMs.
Facial Fabrication of Large-Scale SERS-Active Substrate Based on Self-Assembled Monolayer of Silver Nanoparticles on CTAB-Modified Silicon for Analytical Applications
Authors: Guo Juanjuan , Xu Yang , Fu Caili , Guo Longhua
Published: December 2021

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has been proven to be a promising analytical technique with sensitivity at the single-molecule level. However, one of the key problems preventing its real-world application lies in the great challenges that are encountered in the preparation of large-scale, reproducible, and highly sensitive SERS-active substrates. In this work, a new strategy is developed to fabricate an Ag collide SERS substrate by using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a connection agent. The developed SERS substrate can be developed on a large scale and is highly efficient, and it has high-density “hot spots” that enhance the yield enormously. We employed 4-methylbenzenethiol(4-MBT) as the SERS probe due to the strong Ag–S linkage. The SERS enhancement factor (EF) was calculated to be ~2.6 × 106. The efficacy of the proposed substrate is demonstrated for the detection of malachite green (MG) as an example. The limit of detection (LOD) for the MG assay is brought down to 1.0 × 10−11 M, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) for the intensity of the main Raman vibration modes (1620, 1038 cm−1) is less than 20%.
Impacts of the Catalyst Structures on CO2 Activation on Catalyst Surfaces
Authors: Etim Ubong J. , Zhang Chenchen , Zhong Ziyi
Published: December 2021

Utilizing CO2 as a sustainable carbon source to form valuable products requires activating it by active sites on catalyst surfaces. These active sites are usually in or below the nanometer scale. Some metals and metal oxides can catalyze the CO2 transformation reactions. On metal oxide-based catalysts, CO2 transformations are promoted significantly in the presence of surface oxygen vacancies or surface defect sites. Electrons transferable to the neutral CO2 molecule can be enriched on oxygen vacancies, which can also act as CO2 adsorption sites. CO2 activation is also possible without necessarily transferring electrons by tailoring catalytic sites that promote interactions at an appropriate energy level alignment of the catalyst and CO2 molecule. This review discusses CO2 activation on various catalysts, particularly the impacts of various structural factors, such as oxygen vacancies, on CO2 activation.
Ferroelectric Materials Based Coupled Nanogenerators
Authors: Minhas Jabir Zamir , Hasan Md Al Mahadi , Yang Ya
Published: December 2021

Innovations in nanogenerator technology foster pervading self-power devices for human use, environmental surveillance, energy transfiguration, intelligent energy storage systems, and wireless networks. Energy harvesting from ubiquitous ambient mechanical, thermal, and solar energies by nanogenerators is the hotspot of the modern electronics research era. Ferroelectric materials, which show spontaneous polarization, are reversible when exposed to the external electric field, and are responsive to external stimuli of strain, heat, and light are promising for modeling nanogenerators. This review demonstrates ferroelectric material-based nanogenerators, practicing the discrete and coupled pyroelectric, piezoelectric, triboelectric, and ferroelectric photovoltaic effects. Their working mechanisms and way of optimizing their performances, exercising the conjunction of effects in a standalone device, and multi-effects coupled nanogenerators are greatly versatile and reliable and encourage resolution in the energy crisis. Additionally, the expectancy of productive lines of future ensuing and propitious application domains are listed.
Diagnostic Yield of TEE in Patients with Cryptogenic Stroke and TIA with Normal TTE: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shah Shamik , Malik Preeti , Patel Urvish , Wang Yunxia , Gronseth Gary S.
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The role of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in cryptogenic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) with normal transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) remains controversial in the absence of definite guidelines. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate an additional diagnostic yield and clinical impact of TEE in patients with cryptogenic stroke and TIA with normal TTE. Methods: We performed a systematic review of cohort studies on PubMed using the keywords ‘cryptogenic stroke’, cryptogenic TIA’, ‘TEE’, and ‘TTE’ with matching MeSH terms. We included studies with patients who had cryptogenic stroke or TIA and had normal TTE findings, where the study intended to obtain TEE on all patients and reported all TEE abnormalities. The studies containing patients with atrial fibrillation were excluded. All studies were evaluated for internal and external validity. Inverse variance random effects models were used to calculate the effect size, the number needed to diagnose, and the 95% confidence interval. Results: We included 15 studies with 2054 patients and found LA/LAA/aortic thrombus, valvular vegetation, PFO-ASA, valvular abnormalities, and complex aortic plaques on TEE. Of these, 37.5% (29.7%–45.1%) of patients had additional cardiac findings on TEE. Management of 13.6% (8.1%–19.1%) of patients had changed after TEE evaluation. Based on current guidelines, it should change management in 4.1% (2.1%–6.2%) of patients and could potentially change management in 30.4% (21.9%–38.9%) of patients. Sensitivity analysis was also performed with only class II studies to increase internal validity, which showed additional cardiac findings in 38.4% (28.5%–48.3%), changed management in 20.2% (8.7%–31.8%), should change management in 4.7% (1.5%–7.9%), and could potentially change management in 30.4% (17.8%–43.0%) of patients. Conclusions: The diagnostic yield of TEE to find any additional cardiac findings in patients with cryptogenic stroke or TIA is not only high, but it can also change management for certain cardiac abnormalities. TTE in cryptogenic stroke or TIA may mitigate future risks by tailoring the management of these patients.
The Fatty Acid Species and Quantity Consumed by the Breastfed Infant Are Important for Growth and Development
Authors: George Alexandra D. , Gay Melvin C. L. , Wlodek Mary E. , Murray Kevin , Geddes Donna T.
Published: December 2021

The fatty acids (FAs) of human milk (HM) are the building blocks of the HM lipidome, contributing to infant health and development; however, this has not been comprehensively characterised with respect to infant intake. Eighteen Western Australian mother–infant dyads provided monthly longitudinal HM samples during six months of exclusive breastfeeding. Monthly anthropometric measurements, health data and basic maternal food frequency data were also collected. At three months, infant 24 h milk intake and total lipid intake were measured. The FA profile was analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Linear regression and Pearson’s correlation were used to identify associations between HM FA composition, HM FA intake, maternal characteristics and infant growth and developmental outcomes. Mean infant intake of total lipids was 29.7 ± 9.4 g/day. HM FA composition exhibited wide variation between dyads and throughout lactation. Infant intake of a number of FAs, including C15:0, C18:1, C18:2 and C20:3, was positively related to infant growth (all p < 0.001). There were no relationships detected between C22:5 and C20:5 and infant head circumference. Infant total lipid intake and the infant intake of many FAs play essential roles in infant growth and development. This study highlights the important relationships of many HM FAs not previously described, including C15:0 and C18:2 species. Infant outcomes should be considered in the context of intake in future HM studies.
Three in One: The Potential of Brassica By-Products against Economic Waste, Environmental Hazard, and Metabolic Disruption in Obesity
Authors: Castelão-Baptista José , Barros Ana , Martins Tânia , Rosa Eduardo , Sardão Vilma
Published: December 2021

A large amount of waste is generated within the different steps of the food supply chain, representing a significant loss of natural resources, plant material, and economic value for producers and consumers. During harvesting and processing, many parts of edible plants are not sold for consumption and end up as massive waste, adding environmental hazards to the list of concerns regarding food wastage. Examples are Brassica oleracea var. Italica (broccoli) by-products, which represent 75% of the plant mass. A growing concern in the Western world is obesity, which results from incorrect lifestyles and comprises an extensive array of co-morbidities. Several studies have linked these co-morbidities to increased oxidative stress; thus, naturally occurring and readily available antioxidant compounds are an attractive way to mitigate metabolic diseases. The idea of by-products selected for their biomedical value is not novel. However, there is innovation underlying the use of Brassica by-products in the context of obesity. For this reason, Brassica by-products are prime candidates to be used in the treatment of obesity due to its bioactive compounds, such as sulforaphane, which possess antioxidant activity. Here, we review the economic and health potential of Brassica bioactive compounds in the context of obesity.
Term Infant Formulas Influencing Gut Microbiota: An Overview
Authors: Fabiano Valentina , Indrio Flavia , Verduci Elvira , Calcaterra Valeria , Pop Tudor Lucian , Mari Alessandra , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Cullu Cokugras Fugen , Pettoello-Mantovani Massimo , Goulet Olivier
Published: December 2021

Intestinal colonization of the neonate is highly dependent on the term of pregnancy, the mode of delivery, the type of feeding [breast feeding or formula feeding]. Postnatal immune maturation is dependent on the intestinal microbiome implementation and composition and type of feeding is a key issue in the human gut development, the diversity of microbiome, and the intestinal function. It is well established that exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months or more has several benefits with respect to formula feeding. The composition of the new generation of infant formulas aims in mimicking HM by reproducing its beneficial effects on intestinal microbiome and on the gut associated immune system (GAIS). Several approaches have been developed currently for designing new infant formulas by the addition of bioactive ingredients such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), probiotics, prebiotics [fructo-oligosaccharides (FOSs) and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOSs)], or by obtaining the so-called post-biotics also known as milk fermentation products. The aim of this article is to guide the practitioner in the understanding of these different types of Microbiota Influencing Formulas by listing and summarizing the main concepts and characteristics of these different models of enriched IFs with bioactive ingredients.
A Mix of Dietary Fibres Changes Interorgan Nutrients Exchanges and Muscle-Adipose Energy Handling in Overfed Mini-Pigs
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Ben , Rémond Didier , Gual-Grau Andreu , Bernalier-Donnadille Annick , Capel Frédéric , Michalski Marie-Caroline , Laugerette Fabienne , Cohade Benoit , Hafnaoui Noureddine , Béchet Daniel , Coudy-Gandilhon Cécile , Gueugneau Marine , Salles Jerome , Migné Carole , Dardevet Dominique , David Jérémie , Polakof Sergio , Savary-Auzeloux Isabelle
Published: December 2021

This study evaluates the capacity of a bread enriched with fermentable dietary fibres to modulate the metabolism and nutrients handling between tissues, gut and peripheral, in a context of overfeeding. Net fluxes of glucose, lactate, urea, short chain fatty acids (SCFA), and amino acids were recorded in control and overfed female mini-pigs supplemented or not with fibre-enriched bread. SCFA in fecal water and gene expressions, but not protein levels or metabolic fluxes, were measured in muscle, adipose tissue, and intestine. Fibre supplementation increased the potential for fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial activity in muscle (acox, ucp2, sdha and cpt1-m, p < 0.05) as well as main regulatory transcription factors of metabolic activity such as pparα, pgc-1α and nrf2. All these features were associated with a reduced muscle fibre cross sectional area, resembling to controls (i.e., lean phenotype). SCFA may be direct inducers of these cross-talk alterations, as their feces content (+52%, p = 0.05) was increased in fibre-supplemented mini-pigs. The SCFA effects could be mediated at the gut level by an increased production of incretins (increased gcg mRNA, p < 0.05) and an up-regulation of SCFA receptors (increased gpr41 mRNA, p < 0.01). Hence, consumption of supplemented bread with fermentable fibres can be an appropriate strategy to activate muscle energy catabolism and limit the establishment of an obese phenotype.
Vitamin D Supplementation and Mental Health in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Głąbska Dominika , Kołota Aleksandra , Lachowicz Katarzyna , Skolmowska Dominika , Stachoń Małgorzata , Guzek Dominika
Published: December 2021

Vitamin D has a promising role in multiple sclerosis (MS) management, and it has been found to be beneficial for patients’ mental health, which is reduced in MS patients. The aim of the present study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to assess the influence of vitamin D supplementation on mental health in MS patients. The systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020155779) and it was conducted on the basis of the PRISMA guidelines. The search procedure was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science databases and it included studies published up until September 2021. Six studies were included in the systematic review. The risk of bias was analyzed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Within the included studies, there were two studies randomized against placebo and four other prospective studies. The studies presented vitamin D interventions randomized against placebo or not randomized, while supplementation was applied for various durations—from 4 weeks to 12 months, or the studies compared patients who applied vitamin D supplementation and those who did not apply it and verified the effect of the supplementation after a number of years. The mental health outcomes that were assessed included quality of life, depression/depressive symptoms, and fatigue as an additional element. The majority of studies supported the positive influence of vitamin D on the mental health of MS patients, including the study characterized as having the highest quality (randomized against placebo with the highest NOS score). All the studies that assessed the quality of life indicated the positive influence of vitamin D while the studies that did not find a positive influence of vitamin D were conducted for depression/depressive symptoms. In spite of the fact that only a small number of studies have been conducted so far, and only two studies were randomized against a placebo, some conclusions may be formulated. The systematic review allowed us to conclude that there may be a positive effect of vitamin D supplementation in MS patients, which was stated in all of the studies analyzing quality of life, as well as in one study analyzing depressive symptoms. Considering that vitamin D deficiency is common in MS patients, and the potential positive influence of supplementation on the quality of life, supplementation should be applied at least in doses that cover the recommended intake.
Association of Serum Magnesium with Blood Pressure in Patients with Hypertensive Crises: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Onor IfeanyiChukwu O. , Hill Lashira M. , Famodimu Modupe M. , Coleman Mallory R. , Huynh Carolkim H. , Beyl Robbie A. , Payne Casey J. , Johnston Emily K. , Okogbaa John I. , Gillard Christopher J. , Sarpong Daniel F. , Borghol Amne , Okpechi Samuel C. , Norbert Ifeyinwa , Sanne Shane E. , Guillory Shane G.
Published: December 2021

The role of magnesium in blood pressure has been studied among hypertensive patients; however, there is a dearth of studies exploring the role of magnesium in hypertensive crises. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum magnesium and blood pressure in patients with hypertensive crises. This was a single-center, retrospective, chart review, cross-sectional study of patients with hypertensive crises. Patients were included if they were eighteen years of age or older, with an international classification disease ninth revision (ICD-9) code of 401.9 (hypertensive crises: emergency or urgency) and a documented magnesium level on their electronic medical record. The primary outcome of the study was the correlation between serum magnesium and blood pressure (systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure) in patients with hypertensive crises. Two hundred and ninety-three patients were included in the study. The primary outcome result showed that serum magnesium was positively correlated with systolic blood pressure (r = 0.143, p = 0.014), but not diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: This study found a significant positive association between magnesium and systolic blood pressure, but not diastolic blood pressure, among patients with hypertensive crises. This positive association of serum magnesium with systolic blood pressure was maintained after adjusting for covariates. This study’s findings suggest a potential role of magnesium in blood pressure among patients with hypertensive crises.
Effect of Anti-Inflammatory Diets on Pain in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Schönenberger Katja A. , Schüpfer Anne-Catherine , Gloy Viktoria L. , Hasler Paul , Stanga Zeno , Kaegi-Braun Nina , Reber Emilie
Published: December 2021

Various nutritional therapies have been proposed in rheumatoid arthritis, particularly diets rich in ω-3 fatty acids, which may lead to eicosanoid reduction. Our aim was to investigate the effect of potentially anti-inflammatory diets (Mediterranean, vegetarian, vegan, ketogenic) on pain. The primary outcome was pain on a 10 cm visual analogue scale. Secondary outcomes were C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, health assessment questionnaire, disease activity score 28, tender/swollen joint counts, weight, and body mass index. We searched MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (Elsevier), and CINAHL for studies published from database inception to 12 November 2021. Two authors independently assessed studies for inclusion, extracted study data, and assessed the risk of bias. We performed a meta-analysis with all eligible randomized controlled trials using RevMan 5. We used mean differences or standardized mean differences and the inverse variance method of pooling using a random-effects model. The search retrieved 564 unique publications, of which we included 12 in the systematic review and 7 in the meta-analysis. All studies had a high risk of bias and the evidence was very low. The main conclusion is that anti-inflammatory diets resulted in significantly lower pain than ordinary diets (−9.22 mm; 95% CI −14.15 to −4.29; p = 0.0002; 7 RCTs, 326 participants).
Impact of Oropharyngeal Administration of Colostrum in Preterm Newborns’ Oral Microbiome
Authors: Cortez Ramon V. , Fernandes Andrea , Sparvoli Luiz Gustavo , Padilha Marina , Feferbaum Rubens , Neto Corintio Mariani , Taddei Carla R.
Published: December 2021

The initial colonization of the human microbiota is of paramount importance. In this context, the oropharyngeal administration of colostrum is a safe, viable, and well-tolerated practice even by the smallest preterm infants. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of oropharyngeal administration of colostrum on the establishment of preterm infants’ oral microbiota. A longitudinal observational study was carried out with 20 premature neonates, divided into two groups: one receiving the protocol (Oropharyngeal Administration of Colostrum; OAC) and the other one receiving Standard Caare (SC). Saliva samples were collected from the newborns weekly during the study period (from the day of birth until the 21st day of life) for analysis of oral microbiota through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We observed that the colonization of the oral microbiota of preterm newborns preseanted a higher relative abundance of Staphylococcus on the 7th day of life, mainly in the OAC group. Additionally, an increased abundance of Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides was observed in the OAC group at the first week of life. Regarding alpha and beta diversity, time was a key factor in the oral modulation of both groups, showing how dynamic this environment is in early life.
Krill-Oil-Dependent Increases in HS-Omega-3 Index, Plasma Choline and Antioxidant Capacity in Well-Conditioned Power Training Athletes
Authors: Drobnic Franchek , Storsve Andreas B. , Burri Lena , Ding Yunpeng , Banquells Montserrat , Riera Joan , Björk Per , Ferrer-Roca Ventura , Domingo Joan Carles
Published: December 2021

There is evidence that both omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and choline can influence sports performance, but information establishing their combined effects when given in the form of krill oil during power training protocols is missing. The purpose of this study was therefore to characterize n-3 PUFA and choline profiles after a one-hour period of high-intensity physical workout after 12 weeks of supplementation. Thirty-five healthy power training athletes received either 2.5 g/day of Neptune krill oilTM (550 mg EPA/DHA and 150 mg choline) or olive oil (placebo) in a randomized double-blind design. After 12 weeks, only the krill oil group showed a significant HS-Omega-3 Index increase from 4.82 to 6.77% and a reduction in the ARA/EPA ratio (from 50.72 to 13.61%) (p < 0.001). The krill oil group showed significantly higher recovery of choline concentrations relative to the placebo group from the end of the first to the beginning of the second exercise test (p = 0.04) and an 8% decrease in total antioxidant capacity post-exercise versus 21% in the placebo group (p = 0.35). In conclusion, krill oil can be used as a nutritional strategy for increasing the HS-Omega-3 Index, recover choline concentrations and address oxidative stress after intense power trainings.
Effects of Simultaneous Exposure to a Western Diet and Wheel-Running Training on Brain Energy Metabolism in Female Rats
Authors: Nowacka-Chmielewska Marta Maria , Liśkiewicz Daniela , Grabowska Konstancja , Liśkiewicz Arkadiusz , Marczak Łukasz , Wojakowska Anna , Pondel Natalia , Grabowski Mateusz , Barski Jarosław Jerzy , Małecki Andrzej
Published: December 2021

Background: In the pathogenesis of central nervous system disorders (e.g., neurodegenerative), an important role is attributed to an unhealthy lifestyle affecting brain energy metabolism. Physical activity in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases is getting increasing attention. Methods: We performed a series of assessments in adult female Long Evans rats subjected to 6 weeks of Western diet feeding and wheel-running training. A control group of lean rats was fed with a standard diet. In all experimental groups, we measured physiological parameters (animal weights, body composition, serum metabolic parameters). We assessed the impact of simultaneous exposure to a Western diet and wheel-running on the cerebrocortical protein expression (global proteomic profiling), and in the second part of the experiment, we measured the cortical levels of protein related to brain metabolism (Western blot). Results: Western diet led to an obese phenotype and induced changes in the serum metabolic parameters. Wheel-running did not reduce animal weights or fat mass but significantly decreased serum glucose level. The global proteome analysis revealed that the altered proteins were functionally annotated as they were involved mostly in metabolic pathways. Western blot analysis showed the downregulation of the mitochondrial protein—Acyl-CoA dehydrogenase family member 9, hexokinase 1 (HK1)—enzyme involved in principal glucose metabolism pathways and monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2). Wheel-running reversed this decline in the cortical levels of HK1 and MCT2. Conclusion: The cerebrocortical proteome is affected by a combination of physical activity and Western diet in female rats. An analysis of the cortical proteins involved in brain energy metabolism provides a valuable basis for the deeper investigation of changes in the brain structure and function induced by simultaneous exposure to a Western diet and physical activity.
Exercise Effects on Bone Mineral Density in Men
Authors: Mages Michelle , Shojaa Mahdieh , Kohl Matthias , von Stengel Simon , Becker Clemens , Gosch Markus , Jakob Franz , Kerschan-Schindl Katharina , Kladny Bernd , Klöckner Nicole , Lange Uwe , Middeldorf Stefan , Peters Stefan , Schoene Daniel , Sieber Cornel , Tholen Reina , Thomasius Friederike , Uder Michael , Kemmler Wolfgang
Published: December 2021

In contrast to postmenopausal women, evidence for a favorable effect of exercise on Bone Mineral Density (BMD) is still limited for men. This might be due to the paucity of studies, but also to the great variety of participants and study characteristics that may dilute study results. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of exercise on BMD changes with rational eligibility criteria. A comprehensive search of six electronic databases up to 15 March 2021 was conducted. Briefly, controlled trials ≥6 months that determined changes in areal BMD in men >18 years old, with no apparent diseases or pharmacological therapy that relevantly affect bone metabolism, were included. BMD changes (standardized mean differences: SMD) of the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) were considered as outcomes. Twelve studies with 16 exercise and 12 control groups were identified. The pooled estimate of random-effect analysis was SMD = 0.38, 95%-CI: 0.14–0.61 and SMD = 0.25, 95%-CI: 0.00–0.49, for LS and FN, respectively. Heterogeneity between the trials was low–moderate. Funnel plots and rank and regression correlation tests indicate evidence for small study publication bias for LS but not FN-BMD. Subgroup analyses that focus on study length, type of exercise and methodologic quality revealed no significant difference between each of the three categories. In summary, we provided further evidence for a low but significant effect of exercise on BMD in men. However, we are currently unable to give even rough exercise recommendations for male cohorts.
Unveiling Metabolic Phenotype Alterations in Anorexia Nervosa through Metabolomics
Authors: Mayo-Martínez Laura , Rupérez Francisco J. , Martos-Moreno Gabriel Á. , Graell Montserrat , Barbas Coral , Argente Jesús , García Antonia
Published: December 2021

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain that affects mainly young women. It courses with a negative body image leading to altered eating behaviors that have devastating physical, metabolic, and psychological consequences for the patients. Although its origin is postulated to be multifactorial, the etiology of AN remains unknown, and this increases the likelihood of chronification and relapsing. Thus, expanding the available knowledge on the pathophysiology of AN is of enormous interest. Metabolomics is proposed as a powerful tool for the elucidation of disease mechanisms and to provide new insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of AN. A review of the literature related to studies of AN patients by employing metabolomic strategies to characterize the main alterations associated with the metabolic phenotype of AN during the last 10 years is described. The most common metabolic alterations are derived from chronic starvation, including amino acid, lipid, and carbohydrate disturbances. Nonetheless, recent findings have shifted the attention to gut-microbiota metabolites as possible factors contributing to AN development, progression, and maintenance. We have identified the areas of ongoing research in AN and propose further perspectives to improve our knowledge and understanding of this disease.
Yeast Beta-Glucans Ingestion Does Not Influence Body Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Pre-Clinical Studies
Authors: Canaan Marcelo M. , Reis-Canaan Juliana C. , Zangerônimo Márcio G. , Andrade Eric F. , Gonçalves Thais M. S. V. , Pereira Michel C. A. , Lima Renato R. , Pardi Vanessa , Murata Ramiro M. , Pereira Luciano J.
Published: December 2021

Dietary fiber supplementation has been studied as a promising strategy in the treatment of obesity and its comorbidities. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to verify whether the consumption of yeast beta-glucan (BG) favors weight loss in obese and non-obese rodents. The PICO strategy was employed, investigating rodents (Population), subjected to the oral administration of yeast BG (Intervention) compared to animals receiving placebo (Comparison), evaluating body weight changes (Outcome), and based on preclinical studies (Study design). Two reviewers searched six databases and the grey literature. We followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and the protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021267788). The search returned 2467 articles. Thirty articles were selected for full-text evaluation, and seven studies remained based on the eligibility criteria. The effects of BG intake on body weight were analyzed based on obese (n = 4 studies) and non-obese animals (n = 4 studies). Even though most studies on obese rodents (75%) indicated a reduction in body weight (qualitative analysis), the meta-analysis showed this was not significant (mean difference −1.35 g—95% CI −5.14:2.45). No effects were also observed for non-obese animals. We concluded that the ingestion of yeast BG barely affects the body weight of obese and non-obese animals.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides in Cord Blood Are Altered in Gestational Diabetes and Stimulate Feto-Placental Angiogenesis In Vitro
Authors: Hoch Denise , Brandl Waltraud , Strutz Jasmin , Köfeler Harald C. , van Poppel Mireille N. M. , Bode Lars , Hiden Ursula , Desoye Gernot , Jantscher-Krenn Evelyn
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are present in maternal serum during pregnancy and their composition is altered in gestational diabetes (GDM). HMOs are also in fetal cord blood and in contact with the feto-placental endothelium, potentially affecting its functions, such as angiogenesis. We hypothesized that cord blood HMOs are changed in GDM and contribute to increased feto-placental angiogenesis, hallmark of GDM. (2) Methods: Using HPLC, we quantified HMOs in cord blood of women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT, n = 25) or GDM (n = 26). We investigated in vitro angiogenesis using primary feto-placental endothelial cells (fpECs) from term placentas after healthy pregnancy (n = 10), in presence or absence of HMOs (100 µg/mL) isolated from human milk, 3′-sialyllactose (3′SL, 30 µg/mL) and lactose (glycan control) and determined network formation (Matrigel assay), proliferation (MTT assays), actin organization (F-actin staining), tube formation (fibrin tube formation assay) and sprouting (spheroid sprouting assay). (3) Results: 3′SL was higher in GDM cord blood. HMOs increased network formation, HMOs and 3’SL increased proliferation and F-actin staining. In fibrin assays, HMOs and 3’SL increased total tube length by 24% and 25% (p < 0.05), in spheroid assays, by 32% (p < 0.05) and 21% (p = 0.056), respectively. Lactose had no effect. (4) Conclusions: Our study suggests a novel role of HMOs in feto-placental angiogenesis and indicates a contribution of HMO composition to altered feto-placental vascularization in GDM.
Association between Daily Niacin Intake and Glaucoma: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Taechameekietichai Teerajet , Chansangpetch Sunee , Peerawaranun Pimnara , Lin Shan C.
Published: December 2021

Background and Aims: To determine the relationship between dietary intake of niacin and glaucoma using the data from the 2005 to 2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Subjects aged 40 years and older who participated in the dietary intake interview and vision health questionnaire of NHANES were included in the study. Glaucoma diagnosis by self-report was utilized. Additionally, glaucoma diagnosis by fundus imaging and International Society Geographical and Epidemiological Ophthalmology (ISGEO) criteria was used in subjects with available qualified retinal imaging. Survey logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between daily niacin consumption and glaucoma. Results: A total of 5768 participants were included in the study. There was a significant decrease in the crude odds of self-reported glaucoma in the third (OR 0.57, 95% Cl 0.43–0.76; p < 0.001) and fourth (OR 0.57, 95% Cl 0.37–0.90; p = 0.018) quartiles of daily niacin consumption, which equated to 21.01 to 28.22 mg/day and greater than 28.22 mg/day, respectively. A similar trend was found using fundus imaging of subjects with niacin intake in the third (OR 0.42, 95% Cl 0.25–0.72; p = 0.002) and fourth (OR 0.36, 95% Cl 0.20–0.67; p = 0.002) quartiles. After adjusting for covariates, the odds of glaucoma based on fundus imaging remained significantly lower for niacin intake in the third (OR 0.49, 95% Cl 0.28–0.87; p = 0.016) and fourth (OR 0.48, 95% Cl 0.26–0.89; p = 0.022) quartile levels. Using ISGEO criteria, there was no significant association between glaucoma and daily niacin consumption. Conclusions: Greater niacin intake may be associated with a lower chance of developing glaucoma.
Probiotics and Their Effect on Surgical Wound Healing: A Systematic Review and New Insights into the Role of Nanotechnology
Authors: Bekiaridou Alexandra , Karlafti Eleni , Oikonomou Ilias Marios , Ioannidis Aristidis , Papavramidis Theodossis S.
Published: December 2021

Skin tissue repair is of fundamental importance for maintaining homeostasis regulation, protection barrier, absorption, and excretion of skin tissue. Wound healing is a complicated process that can be impaired by infections and therefore have a significant economic and social impact. Simultaneously, the overuse of antibiotics has led to antimicrobial resistance and loss of their efficacy. Thus, the need for alternative antimicrobial agents is urgent. The newest approaches on wound dressings employ new therapeutic agents, such as probiotics. Probiotics alone or in tandem with nanotechnology-based techniques exhibit a broad range of benefits on surgical wounds. This systematic review aims to consider current knowledge of probiotic effects on animals and humans regarding surgical wound healing and provide new insights into the role of nanotechnology. The databases included were PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL). Studies focused on burns, chronic wounds, and diabetic ulcers were excluded. The promising industry of probiotics demonstrates a significant upsurge as more and more healthy individuals rely their well-being on alternative medicine. Included probiotics illustrated positive results on wound re-epithelization, neovascularization, and wound healing. No adverse effects were noted.
Acute Inositol-Stabilized Arginine Silicate Improves Cognitive Outcomes in Healthy Adults
Authors: Gills Joshua L. , Campitelli Anthony , Jones Megan , Paulson Sally , Myers Jennifer Rae , Madero Erica N. , Glenn Jordan M. , Komorowski James , Gray Michelle
Published: December 2021

Inositol-stabilized arginine silicate (ASI) is an ergogenic aid that upregulates nitric oxide. Acute ASI supplementation improves working memory and processing speed in young adults but there is a lack of data examining other cognitive tasks. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine acute ASI effects on young healthy adults by assessing multiple cognitive domains. Nineteen young adults (20.9 ± 3.2 years) completed this randomized, double-blind, crossover study consuming ASI (1.5 g ASI + 12 g dextrose) and placebo (12 g dextrose). The participants completed the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and two digital cognitive assessments before consuming the supplement and then completed the same battery of tests 60 min post-supplementation. Repeated measures ANOVA demonstrated that ASI consumption significantly improved total RBANS and immediate memory scores compared to the placebo (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were displayed between trials for other cognitive domains (p > 0.05). Acute ASI ingestion increased overall RBANS scores and immediate memory scores in young adults. More research is needed to examine the acute effects of ASI on other domains of cognition, in older populations, and its long-term effects on cognition.
Inhibitory Effect of Astaxanthin on Gene Expression Changes in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Human Gastric Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kim Suhn Hyung , Kim Hyeyoung
Published: December 2021

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection promotes gastric carcinogenesis by increasing oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysregulation of cell survival and proliferation of gastric epithelial cells. Astaxanthin (ASTX), a bioactive carotenoid, exhibits antioxidant and anticancer effects by modulating aberrant signaling pathways that lead to dysregulation of cell death and proliferation. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of H. pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis and to examine the inhibitory effect of ASTX on H. pylori-induced gastric epithelial cell gene expression changes, we performed comparative RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis for H. pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells treated with or without ASTX. RNA-Seq results reveal that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in H. pylori-infected cells were mainly associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is related to cell proliferation. ASTX significantly reversed H. pylori-induced transcriptional alterations of the key mediators involved in β-catenin signaling, notably, porcupine (gene symbol, PORCN), spermine oxidase (SMOX), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and activin membrane-bound inhibitor (BAMBI), SMAD family member 4 (SMAD4), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFB1), Fos-like 1 (FOSLI), and c-myc (MYC). We suggest that ASTX may be a potential therapeutic agent that can suppress H. pylori-induced proliferation-associated gene expression changes, in part, by counter-regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.