bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong Electric Polarizability of Cone–Shell Quantum Structures for a Large Stark Shift, Tunable Long Exciton Lifetimes, and a Dot-to-Ring Transformation
Authors: Heyn Christian , Ranasinghe Leonardo , Deneke Kristian , Alshaikh Ahmed , Duque Carlos A. , Hansen Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

Strain-free GaAs cone–shell quantum structures (CSQS) with widely tunable wave functions (WF) are fabricated using local droplet etching (LDE) during molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). During MBE, Al droplets are deposited on an AlGaAs surface, which then drill low-density (about 1 × 107 cm−2) nanoholes with adjustable shape and size. Subsequently, the holes are filled with GaAs to form CSQS, where the size can be adjusted by the amount of GaAs deposited for hole filling. An electric field is applied in growth direction to tune the WF in a CSQS. The resulting highly asymmetric exciton Stark shift is measured using micro-photoluminescence. Here, the unique shape of the CSQS allows a large charge–carrier separation and, thus, a strong Stark shift of up to more than 16 meV at a moderate field of 65 kV/cm. This corresponds to a very large polarizability of 8.6 × 10−6 eVkV −2 cm2. In combination with simulations of the exciton energy, the Stark shift data allow the determination of the CSQS size and shape. Simulations of the exciton–recombination lifetime predict an elongation up to factor of 69 for the present CSQSs, tunable by the electric field. In addition, the simulations indicate the field-induced transformation of the hole WF from a disk into a quantum ring with a tunable radius from about 10 nm up to 22.5 nm.
Fast and Efficient Simulation of the FEBID Process with Thermal Effects
Authors: Kuprava Alexander , Huth Michael
Published: February 2023

Focused electron-beam-induced deposition (FEBID) is a highly versatile direct-write approach with particular strengths in the 3D nanofabrication of functional materials. Despite its apparent similarity to other 3D printing approaches, non-local effects related to precursor depletion, electron scattering and sample heating during the 3D growth process complicate the shape-true transfer from a target 3D model to the actual deposit. Here, we describe an efficient and fast numerical approach to simulate the growth process, which allows for a systematic study of the influence of the most important growth parameters on the resulting shape of the 3D structures. The precursor parameter set derived in this work for the precursor Me3PtCpMe enables a detailed replication of the experimentally fabricated nanostructure, taking beam-induced heating into account. The modular character of the simulation approach allows for additional future performance increases using parallelization or drawing on the use of graphics cards. Ultimately, beam-control pattern generation for 3D FEBID will profit from being routinely combined with this fast simulation approach for optimized shape transfer.
Improved Electrochemical Hydrogen Peroxide Detection Using a Nickel(II) Phthalimide-Substituted Porphyrazine Combined with Various Carbon Nanomaterials
Authors: Leda Amanda , Hassani Mina , Rebis Tomasz , Falkowski Michal , Piskorz Jaroslaw , Mlynarczyk Dariusz T. , McNeice Peter , Milczarek Grzegorz
Published: February 2023

A metal-free porphyrazine derivative with peripheral phthalimide substituents was metallated with a nickel(II) ion. The purity of the nickel macrocycle was confirmed using HPLC, and characterized by MS, UV–VIS, and 1D (1H, 13C) and 2D (1H–13C HSQC, 1H–13C HMBC, 1H–1H COSY) NMR techniques. The novel porphyrazine was combined with various carbon nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes—single walled (SWCNTs) and multi-walled (MWCNTs), and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (rGO), to create hybrid electroactive electrode materials. The carbon nanomaterials’ effect on the electrocatalytic properties of nickel(II) cations was compared. As a result, an extensive electrochemical characterization of the synthesized metallated porphyrazine derivative on various carbon nanostructures was carried out using cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An electrode modified with carbon nanomaterials GC/MWCNTs, GC/SWCNTs, or GC/rGO, respectively, was shown to have a lower overpotential than a bare glassy carbon electrode (GC), allowing for the measurement of hydrogen peroxide in neutral conditions (pH 7.4). It was shown that among the tested carbon nanomaterials, the modified electrode GC/MWCNTs/Pz3 exhibited the best electrocatalytic properties in the direction of hydrogen peroxide oxidation/reduction. The prepared sensor was determined to enable a linear response to H2O2 in concentrations ranging between 20–1200 µM with the detection limit of 18.57 µM and sensitivity of 14.18 µA mM−1 cm−2. As a result of this research, the sensors produced here may find use in biomedical and environmental applications.
Magnesium Hydroxide Nanoparticles Inhibit the Biofilm Formation of Cariogenic Microorganisms
Authors: Okamoto Kentaro , Kudo Daisuke , Phuong Dao Nguyen Duy , Iwamoto Yoshihito , Watanabe Koji , Yoshioka Yoshie , Ariyoshi Wataru , Yamasaki Ryota
Published: February 2023

Although various caries-preventive agents have been developed, dental caries is still a leading global disease, mostly caused by biological factors such as mutans streptococci. Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles have been reported to exhibit antibacterial effects; however, they are rarely used in oral care practical applications. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effect of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles on biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus—two typical caries-causing bacteria. Three different sizes of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles (NM80, NM300, and NM700) were studied, all of which inhibited biofilm formation. The results showed that the nanoparticles were important for the inhibitory effect, which was not influenced by pH or the presence of magnesium ions. We also determined that the inhibition process was mainly contact inhibition and that medium (NM300) and large (NM700) sizes were particularly effective in this regard. The findings of our study demonstrate the potential applications of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles as caries-preventive agents.
Self-Heating Flower-like Nanoconstructs with Limited Incorporation of Yttrium in Maghemite: Effect of Chemical Composition on Heating Efficiency, Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity
Authors: Ognjanović Miloš , Jaćimović Željko , Kosović-Perutović Milica , Besu Žižak Irina , Stanojković Tatjana , Žižak Željko , Dojčinović Biljana , Stanković Dalibor M. , Antić Bratislav
Published: February 2023

Partial cation substitution can significantly change the physical properties of parent compounds. By controlling the chemical composition and knowing the mutual relationship between composition and physical properties, it is possible to tailor the properties of materials to those that are superior for desired technological application. Using the polyol synthesis procedure, a series of yttrium-substituted iron oxide nanoconstructs, γ-Fe2−xYxO3 (YIONs), was prepared. It was found that Y3+ could substitute Fe3+ in the crystal structures of maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) up to a limited concentration of ~1.5% (γ-Fe1.969Y0.031O3). Analysis of TEM micrographs showed that crystallites or particles were aggregated in flower-like structures with diameters from 53.7 ± 6.2 nm to 97.3 ± 37.0 nm, depending on yttrium concentration. To be investigated for potential applications as magnetic hyperthermia agents, YIONs were tested twice: their heating efficiency was tested and their toxicity was investigated. The Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) values were in the range of 32.6 W/g to 513 W/g and significantly decreased with increased yttrium concentration in the samples. Intrinsic loss power (ILP) for γ-Fe2O3 and γ-Fe1.995Y0.005O3 were ~8–9 nH·m2/Kg, which pointed to their excellent heating efficiency. IC50 values of investigated samples against cancer (HeLa) and normal (MRC-5) cells decreased with increased yttrium concentration and were higher than ~300 μg/mL. The samples of γ-Fe2−xYxO3 did not show a genotoxic effect. The results of toxicity studies show that YIONs are suitable for further in vitro/in vivo studies toward to their potential medical applications, while results of heat generation point to their potential use in magnetic hyperthermia cancer treatment or use as self-heating systems for other technological applications such as catalysis.
The Physics behind the Modulation of Thermionic Current in Photodetectors Based on Graphene Embedded between Amorphous and Crystalline Silicon
Authors: Crisci Teresa , Maccagnani Piera , Moretti Luigi , Summonte Caterina , Gioffrè Mariano , Rizzoli Rita , Casalino Maurizio
Published: February 2023

In this work, we investigate a vertically illuminated near-infrared photodetector based on a graphene layer physically embedded between a crystalline and a hydrogenated silicon layer. Under near-infrared illumination, our devices show an unforeseen increase in the thermionic current. This effect has been ascribed to the lowering of the graphene/crystalline silicon Schottky barrier as the result of an upward shift in the graphene Fermi level induced by the charge carriers released from traps localized at the graphene/amorphous silicon interface under illumination. A complex model reproducing the experimental observations has been presented and discussed. Responsivity of our devices exhibits a maximum value of 27 mA/W at 1543 nm under an optical power of 8.7 μW, which could be further improved at lower optical power. Our findings offer new insights, highlighting at the same time a new detection mechanism which could be exploited for developing near-infrared silicon photodetectors suitable for power monitoring applications.
Tethered Bilayer Lipid Membrane Platform for Screening Triton X-100 Detergent Replacements by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Tan Sue Woon , Gooran Negin , Lim Hye Min , Yoon Bo Kyeong , Jackman Joshua A.
Published: February 2023

In light of regulatory considerations, there are ongoing efforts to identify Triton X-100 (TX-100) detergent alternatives for use in the biological manufacturing industry to mitigate membrane-enveloped pathogen contamination. Until now, the efficacy of antimicrobial detergent candidates to replace TX-100 has been tested regarding pathogen inhibition in endpoint biological assays or probing lipid membrane disruption in real-time biophysical testing platforms. The latter approach has proven especially useful to test compound potency and mechanism of action, however, existing analytical approaches have been limited to studying indirect effects of lipid membrane disruption such as membrane morphological changes. A direct readout of lipid membrane disruption by TX-100 detergent alternatives would be more practical to obtain biologically relevant information to guide compound discovery and optimization. Herein, we report the use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to investigate how TX-100 and selected replacement candidates—Simulsol SL 11W (Simulsol) and cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB)—affect the ionic permeability of tethered bilayer lipid membrane (tBLM) platforms. The EIS results revealed that all three detergents exhibited dose-dependent effects mainly above their respective critical micelle concentration (CMC) values while displaying distinct membrane-disruptive behaviors. TX-100 caused irreversible membrane disruption leading to complete solubilization, whereas Simulsol caused reversible membrane disruption and CTAB induced irreversible, partial membrane defect formation. These findings establish that the EIS technique is useful for screening the membrane-disruptive behaviors of TX-100 detergent alternatives with multiplex formatting possibilities, rapid response, and quantitative readouts relevant to antimicrobial functions.
Magnetoresistive Properties of Nanocomposites Based on Ferrite Nanoparticles and Polythiophene
Authors: Wirecka Roma , Maćkosz Krzysztof , Żywczak Antoni , Marzec Mateusz Marek , Zapotoczny Szczepan , Bernasik Andrzej
Published: February 2023

In the presented study, we have synthesized six nanocomposites based on various magnetic nanoparticles and a conducting polymer, poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT). Nanoparticles were either coated with squalene and dodecanoic acid or with P3HT. The cores of the nanoparticles were made of one of three different ferrites: nickel ferrite, cobalt ferrite, or magnetite. All synthesized nanoparticles had average diameters below 10 nm, with magnetic saturation at 300 K varying between 20 to 80 emu/g, depending on the used material. Different magnetic fillers allowed for exploring their impact on the conducting properties of the materials, and most importantly, allowed for studying the influence of the shell on the final electromagnetic properties of the nanocomposite. The conduction mechanism was well defined with the help of the variable range hopping model, and a possible mechanism of electrical conduction was proposed. Finally, the observed negative magnetoresistance of up to 5.5% at 180 K, and up to 1.6% at room temperature, was measured and discussed. Thoroughly described results show the role of the interface in the complex materials, as well as clarify room for improvement of the well-known magnetoelectric materials.
Boosting the Initial Coulomb Efficiency of Sisal Fiber-Derived Carbon Anode for Sodium Ion Batteries by Microstructure Controlling
Authors: Luo Yuan , Xu Yaya , Li Xuenuan , Zhang Kaiyou , Pang Qi , Qin Aimiao
Published: February 2023

As anode material for sodium ion batteries (SIBs), biomass-derived hard carbon has attracted a great deal of attention from researchers because of its renewable nature and low cost. However, its application is greatly limited due to its low initial Coulomb efficiency (ICE). In this work, we employed a simple two-step method to prepare three different structures of hard carbon materials from sisal fibers and explored the structural effects on the ICE. It was determined that the obtained carbon material, with hollow and tubular structure (TSFC), exhibits the best electrochemical performance, with a high ICE of 76.7%, possessing a large layer spacing, a moderate specific surface area, and a hierarchical porous structure. In order to better understand the sodium storage behavior in this special structural material, exhaustive testing was performed. Combining the experimental and theoretical results, an “adsorption-intercalation” model for the sodium storage mechanism of the TSFC is proposed.
Photogating Effect-Driven Photodetectors and Their Emerging Applications
Authors: Shin Jihyun , Yoo Hocheon
Published: February 2023

Rather than generating a photocurrent through photo-excited carriers by the photoelectric effect, the photogating effect enables us to detect sub-bandgap rays. The photogating effect is caused by trapped photo-induced charges that modulate the potential energy of the semiconductor/dielectric interface, where these trapped charges contribute an additional electrical gating-field, resulting in a shift in the threshold voltage. This approach clearly separates the drain current in dark versus bright exposures. In this review, we discuss the photogating effect-driven photodetectors with respect to emerging optoelectrical materials, device structures, and mechanisms. Representative examples that reported the photogating effect-based sub-bandgap photodetection are revisited. Furthermore, emerging applications using these photogating effects are highlighted. The potential and challenging aspects of next-generation photodetector devices are presented with an emphasis on the photogating effect.
A Study of Silver Decoration on Carbon Nanotubes via Ultrasonic Chemical Synthesis and Their Reinforced Copper Matrix Composites
Authors: Tian Dengfeng , Liu Yichun , Yu Jie , Zhao Qi , Tao Jingmei , Wu Zhong , Zhang Jinfeng , Fan Yunying , Liu Yanzhang , Li Caiju , Yi Jianhong
Published: February 2023

The homogeneous distribution of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the Cu matrix and good interfacial bonding are the key factors to obtain excellent properties of carbon nanotube-reinforced Cu-based composites (CNT/Cu). In this work, silver-modified carbon nanotubes (Ag-CNTs) were prepared by a simple, efficient and reducer-free method (ultrasonic chemical synthesis), and Ag-CNTs-reinforced copper matrix composites (Ag-CNTs/Cu) were fabricated by powder metallurgy. The dispersion and interfacial bonding of CNTs were effectively improved by Ag modification. Compared to CNTs/Cu counterparts, the properties of Ag-CNTs/Cu samples were significantly improved, with the electrical conductivity of 94.9% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard), thermal conductivity of 416 W/m·k and tensile strength (315 MPa). The strengthening mechanisms are also discussed.
Cytidine Alleviates Dyslipidemia and Modulates the Gut Microbiota Composition in ob/ob Mice
Authors: Niu Kaixia , Bai Pengpeng , Zhang Junyang , Feng Xinchi , Qiu Feng
Published: February 2023

Cytidine and uridine are endogenous metabolites in the pyrimidine metabolism pathway, and cytidine is a substrate that can be metabolized into uridine via cytidine deaminase. Uridine has been widely reported to be effective in regulating lipid metabolism. However, whether cytidine could ameliorate lipid metabolism disorder has not yet been investigated. In this research, ob/ob mice were used, and the effect of cytidine (0.4 mg/mL in drinking water for five weeks) on lipid metabolism disorder was evaluated in terms of an oral glucose tolerance test, serum lipid levels, liver histopathological analysis and gut microbiome analysis. Uridine was used as a positive control. Our findings reveal that cytidine could alleviate certain aspects of dyslipidemia and improve hepatic steatosis via modulating the gut microbiota composition in ob/ob mice, especially increasing the abundance of short-chain fatty acids-producing microbiota. These results suggest that cytidine supplementation could be a potential therapeutic approach for dyslipidemia.
Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB), Glucose, Insulin, Octanoate (C8), and Decanoate (C10) Responses to a Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Oil with and without Glucose: A Single-Center Study in Healthy Adults
Authors: Heidt Christina , Fobker Manfred , Newport Mary , Feldmann Reinhold , Fischer Tobias , Marquardt Thorsten
Published: February 2023

MCTs are increasingly being used to promote ketogenesis by patients on ketogenic diet therapy, but also by people with other conditions and by the general public for the perceived potential benefits. However, consumption of carbohydrates with MCTs and untoward gastrointestinal side effects, especially at higher doses, could decrease the sustainability of the ketogenic response. This single-center study investigated the impact of consuming carbohydrate as glucose with MCT oil compared to MCT alone on the BHB response. The effects of MCT oil versus MCT oil plus glucose on blood glucose, insulin response, levels of C8, C10, BHB, and cognitive function were determined, and side effects were monitored. A significant plasma BHB increase with a peak at 60 min was observed in 19 healthy participants (24.4 ± 3.9 years) after consuming MCT oil alone, and a more delayed but slightly higher peak was observed after consuming MCT oil plus glucose. A significant increase in blood glucose and insulin levels occurred only after MCT oil plus glucose intake. The overall mean plasma levels of C8 and C10 were higher with the intake of MCT oil alone. MCT oil plus glucose consumption showed improved scores for the arithmetic and vocabulary subtests.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis among Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease—Do We Already Know Everything?
Authors: Lewandowski Konrad , Kaniewska Magdalena , Więcek Martyna , Szwarc Paulina , Panufnik Paulina , Tulewicz-Marti Edyta , Walicka Magdalena , Franek Edward , Rydzewska Grażyna
Published: February 2023

Introduction: There are many known risk factors for osteoporosis (OST) among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), one of which is physical activity. Material and methods: The aim of the study is to assess the frequency and risk factors of OST among 232 patients with IBD compared to a group of 199 patients without IBD. The participants underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, laboratory tests, and completed a questionnaire about their physical activity. Results: It was found that 7.3% of IBD patients suffered from OST. Male gender, ulcerative colitis, extensive inflammation in the intestine, exacerbation of disease, rare physical activity, other forms of physical activity, past fractures, lower levels of osteocalcin, and higher levels of C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen were risk factors for OST. As many as 70.6% of OST patients were rarely physically active. Conclusions: OST is a common problem in IBD patients. OST risk factors differ significantly between the general population and those with IBD. Modifiable factors can be influenced by patients and by physicians. The key to OST prophylaxis may be regular physical activity, which should be recommended in clinical remission. It may also prove valuable to use markers of bone turnover in diagnostics, which may enable decisions regarding therapy.
Differences in Kinanthropometric Variables and Physical Fitness of Adolescents with Different Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Weight Status: “Fat but Healthy Diet” Paradigm
Authors: Mateo-Orcajada Adrián , Vaquero-Cristóbal Raquel , Montoya-Lozano Jesús Miguel , Abenza-Cano Lucía
Published: February 2023

The present investigation provides a new paradigm, the fat but healthy diet, through which to analyze the importance of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (AMD) in the adolescent population. To this end, the objectives were to analyze the existing differences in physical fitness, level of physical activity, and kinanthropometric variables in males and females with different AMD and to determine the existing differences in physical fitness, level of physical activity, and kinanthropometric variables in adolescents with different body mass index and AMD. The sample consisted of 791 adolescent males and females whose AMD, level of physical activity, kinanthropometric variables, and physical condition were measured. The results showed that when analyzing the whole sample, the differences were only significant in the level of physical activity among adolescents with different AMD. However, when considering the gender of the adolescents, the males also showed differences in the kinanthropometric variables, while the females did so in the fitness variables. In addition, when considering gender and body mass index, the results showed that overweight males with better AMD showed less physical activity and higher body mass, sum of three skinfolds, and waist circumference, and females did not show differences in any variable. Therefore, the benefits of AMD in anthropometric variables and physical fitness of adolescents are questioned, and the fat but healthy diet paradigm cannot be confirmed in the present research.
Update of a Genetic Risk Score Predictive of the Plasma Triglyceride Response to an Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in the FAS Study
Authors: Gauthier Ellie , de Toro-Martín Juan , Vallée-Marcotte Bastien , Lemieux Simone , Rudkowska Iwona , Couture Patrick , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: February 2023

A genetic risk score (GRS) predictive of the plasma triglyceride (TG) response to an omega-3 fatty acid (n-3 FA) supplementation has been previously developed in the Fatty Acid Sensor (FAS) Study. Recently, novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interacting with a fish oil supplementation and associated with plasma lipid levels have been identified in the UK Biobank. The aim of this study was to verify whether the addition of SNPs identified in the UK Biobank to the GRS built in the FAS Study improves its capacity to predict the plasma TG response to an n-3 FA supplementation. SNPs interacting with fish oil supplementation in the modulation of plasma lipid levels in the UK Biobank and associated with plasma TG levels have been genotyped in participants of the FAS Study (n = 141). Participants have been supplemented with 5 g fish oil/day for six weeks. Plasma TG concentrations were measured before and after the supplementation. Based on the initial GRS of 31 SNPs (GRS31), we computed three new GRSs by adding new SNPs identified in the UK Biobank: GRS32 (rs55707100), GRS38 (seven new SNPs specifically associated with plasma TG levels), and GRS46 (all 15 new SNPs associated with plasma lipid levels). The initial GRS31 explained 50.1% of the variance in plasma TG levels during the intervention, whereas GRS32, GRS38, and GRS46 explained 49.1%, 45.9%, and 45%, respectively. A significant impact on the probability of being classified as a responder or a nonresponder was found for each of the GRSs analyzed, but none of them outperformed the predictive capacity of GRS31 in any of the metrics analyzed, i.e., accuracy, area under the response operating curve (AUC-ROC), sensitivity, specificity and McFadden’s pseudo R2. The addition of SNPs identified in the UK Biobank to the initial GRS31 did not significantly improve its capacity to predict the plasma TG response to an n-3 FA supplementation. Thus, GRS31 still remains the most precise tool so far by which to discriminate the individual responsiveness to n-3 FAs. Further studies are needed in the field to increase our knowledge of factors underlying the heterogeneity observed in the metabolic response to an n-3 FA supplementation.
Inflammation and Nutrition: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Stumpf Franziska , Keller Bettina , Gressies Carla , Schuetz Philipp
Published: February 2023

The importance of the interplay between inflammation and nutrition has generated much interest in recent times. Inflammation has been identified as a key driver for disease-related malnutrition, leading to anorexia, reduced food intake, muscle catabolism, and insulin resistance, which are stimulating a catabolic state. Interesting recent data suggest that inflammation also modulates the response to nutritional treatment. Studies have demonstrated that patients with high inflammation show no response to nutritional interventions, while patients with lower levels of inflammation do. This may explain the contradictory results of nutritional trials to date. Several studies of heterogeneous patient populations, or in the critically ill or advanced cancer patients, have not found significant benefits on clinical outcome. Vice versa, several dietary patterns and nutrients with pro- or anti-inflammatory properties have been identified, demonstrating that nutrition influences inflammation. Within this review, we summarize and discuss recent advances in both the role of inflammation in malnutrition and the effect of nutrition on inflammation.
Body Composition of Male Professional Soccer Players Using Different Measurement Methods: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sebastiá-Rico Jaime , Soriano Jose M. , González-Gálvez Noelia , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel
Published: February 2023

The performance of male soccer players (MSP) depends on multiple factors such as body composition. The physical demands of modern soccer have changed, so the ideal body composition (BC) requirements must be adapted to the present. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to describe the anthropometric, BC, and somatotype characteristics of professional MSP and to compare the values reported according to the methods and equations used. We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science following the PRISMA statement. Random-effects meta-analysis, a pooled summary of means, and 95% CI (method or equation) were calculated. Random models were used with the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) method. Seventy-four articles were included in the systematic review and seventy-three in the meta-analysis. After comparing the groups according to the assessment method (kinanthropometry, bioimpedance, and densitometry), significant differences were found in height, fat mass in kilograms, fat mass percentage, and fat-free mass in kilograms (p = 0.001; p < 0.0001). Taking into account the equation used to calculate the fat mass percentage and ∑skinfolds, significant differences were observed in the data reported according to groups (p < 0.001). Despite the limitations, this study provides useful information that could help medical technical staff to properly assess the BC of professional MSP, providing a range of guidance values for the different BC.
Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Thyroid Axis, Palatable Food Intake, and Body Weight in Stressed Rats
Authors: García-Luna Cinthia , Prieto Ixchel , Soberanes-Chávez Paulina , Alvarez-Salas Elena , Torre-Villalvazo Iván , Matamoros-Trejo Gilberto , de Gortari Patricia
Published: February 2023

Dietary regimens that are focused on diminishing total caloric intake and restricting palatable food ingestion are the most common strategies for weight control. However, restrictive diet therapies have low adherence rates in obese patients, particularly in stressed individuals. Moreover, food restriction downregulates the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis (HPT) function, hindering weight loss. Intermittent fasting (IF) has emerged as an option to treat obesity. We compared the effects of IF to an all-day feeding schedule on palatable diet (PD)-stress (S)-induced hyperphagia, HPT axis function, accumbal thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and dopamine D2 receptor expression in association with adipocyte size and PPARƔ coactivator 1α (PGC1α) and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression in stressed vs. non-stressed rats. After 5 weeks, S-PD rats showed an increased energy intake and adipocyte size, fewer beige cells, and HPT axis deceleration-associated low PGC1α and UCP1 expression, as well as decreased accumbal TRH and D2 expression. Interestingly, IF reversed those parameters to control values and increased the number of beige adipocytes, UCP1, and PGC1α mRNAs, which may favor a greater energy expenditure and a reduced body weight, even in stressed rats. Our results showed that IF modulated the limbic dopaminergic and TRHergic systems that regulate feeding and HPT axis function, which controls the metabolic rate, supporting this regimen as a suitable non-pharmacologic strategy to treat obesity, even in stressed individuals.
The Effect of Human and Bovine Milk Osteopontin on Intestinal Caco-2 Cells: A Transcriptome Comparison
Authors: Christensen Brian , Buitenhuis Albert J. , Jacobsen Lotte N. , Ostenfeld Marie S. , Sørensen Esben S.
Published: February 2023

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional protein abundantly present in human milk, whereas the concentration is significantly lower in bovine milk. Human and bovine milk OPN are structurally similar and both proteins resist gastric digestion and reach the intestines in a bioactive form. Intervention studies have indicated the beneficial effects of supplementing infant formula with bovine milk OPN and several in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that bovine milk OPN positively influences intestinal development. To investigate the functional relationship, we compared the effect of simulated gastrointestinal digested human and bovine milk OPN on gene expression in Caco-2 cells. After incubation, total RNA was extracted and sequenced and transcripts were mapped to the human genome. Human and bovine milk OPN regulated the expression of 239 and 322 genes, respectively. A total of 131 genes were similarly regulated by the OPNs. As a control, a whey protein fraction with a high content of alpha-lactalbumin had a very limited transcriptional impact on the cells. Enrichment data analysis showed that biological processes related to the ubiquitin system, DNA binding, and genes associated with transcription and transcription control pathways were affected by the OPNs. Collectively, this study shows that human and bovine milk OPN have a significant and highly comparable effect on the intestinal transcriptome.
Food Hardness Modulates Behavior, Cognition, and Brain Activation: A Systematic Review of Animal and Human Studies
Authors: Al-Manei Khaled , Jia Leming , Al-Manei Kholod Khalil , Ndanshau Elisande Lindström , Grigoriadis Anastasios , Kumar Abhishek
Published: February 2023

Food hardness is one of the dietary features that may impact brain functions. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the effect of food hardness (hard food versus soft food diet) on behavior, cognition, and brain activation in animals and humans (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021254204). The search was conducted on 29 June 2022 using Medline (Ovid), Embase, and Web of Science databases. Data were extracted, tabulated by food hardness as an intervention, and summarized by qualitative synthesis. The SYRCLE and JBI tools were used to assess the risk of bias (RoB) of individual studies. Of the 5427 studies identified, 18 animal studies and 6 human studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. The RoB assessment indicated that 61% of animal studies had unclear risks, 11% had moderate risks, and 28% had low risks. All human studies were deemed to have a low risk of bias. The majority (48%) of the animal studies showed that a hard food diet improved behavioral task performance compared to soft food diets (8%). However, 44% of studies also showed no differential effects of food hardness on behavioral tests. It was also evident that certain regions of the brain were activated in response to changes in food hardness in humans, with a positive association between chewing hard food, cognition performance, and brain function. However, variations in the methodologies of the included studies hindered the meta-analysis execution. In conclusion, our findings highlight the beneficial effects of dietary food hardness on behavior, cognition, and brain function in both animals and humans, however, this effect may depend on several factors that require further understanding of the causality.
The Association of Emotional Eating with Overweight/Obesity, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, and Dietary Patterns: A Review of the Current Clinical Evidence
Authors: Dakanalis Antonios , Mentzelou Maria , Papadopoulou Souzana K. , Papandreou Dimitrios , Spanoudaki Maria , Vasios Georgios K. , Pavlidou Eleni , Mantzorou Maria , Giaginis Constantinos
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Emotional eating is considered as the propensity to eat in response to emotions. It is considered as a critical risk factor for recurrent weight gain. Such overeating is able to affect general health due to excess energy intake and mental health. So far, there is still considerable controversy on the effect of the emotional eating concept. The objective of this study is to summarize and evaluate the interconnections among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns; (2) Methods: This is a thorough review of the reported associations among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns. We compressively searched the most precise scientific online databases, e.g., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar to obtain the most up-to-date data from clinical studies in humans from the last ten years (2013–2023) using critical and representative keywords. Several inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied for scrutinizing only longitudinal, cross-sectional, descriptive, and prospective clinical studies in Caucasian populations; (3) Results: The currently available findings suggest that overeating/obesity and unhealthy eating behaviors (e.g., fast food consumption) are associated with emotional eating. Moreover, the increase in depressive symptoms seems to be related with more emotional eating. Psychological distress is also related with a greater risk for emotional eating. However, the most common limitations are the small sample size and their lack of diversity. In addition, a cross-sectional study was performed in the majority of them; (4) Conclusions: Finding coping mechanisms for the negative emotions and nutrition education can prevent the prevalence of emotional eating. Future studies should further explain the underlying mechanisms of the interconnections among emotional eating and overweight/obesity, depression, anxiety/stress, and dietary patterns.
Eating Vegetables First Regardless of Eating Speed Has a Significant Reducing Effect on Postprandial Blood Glucose and Insulin in Young Healthy Women: Randomized Controlled Cross-Over Study
Authors: Imai Saeko , Kajiyama Shizuo , Kitta Kaoru , Miyawaki Takashi , Matsumoto Shinya , Ozasa Neiko , Kajiyama Shintaro , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Fukui Michiaki
Published: February 2023

People with fast eating habits have been reported to have an increased risk of diabetes and obesity. To explore whether the speed of eating a test meal (tomato, broccoli, fried fish, and boiled white rice) influences postprandial blood glucose, insulin, triglyceride, and free fatty acid levels, 18 young, healthy women consumed a 671 kcal breakfast at fast speed (10 min) and slow speed (20 min) with vegetables first and slow speed (20 min) with carbohydrate first on three separate days. This study was conducted using a within-participants cross-over design in which all participants consumed identical meals of three different eating speeds and food orders. Significant ameliorations of both fast and slow eating with vegetables first regimen on postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels at 30 and 60 min were observed compared with those of slow eating with carbohydrates first. In addition, the standard deviation, large amplitude of excursion, and incremental area under the curve for blood glucose and insulin in both fast and slow eating with vegetables first were all significantly lower than those of slow eating with carbohydrate first. Interestingly, there was no significant difference between fast and slow eating on postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels as long as vegetables were consumed first, although postprandial blood glucose at 30 min was significantly lower in slow eating with vegetables first than that of fast eating with the same food order. These results suggest that food order with vegetables first and carbohydrate last ameliorates postprandial blood glucose and insulin concentrations even if the meal was consumed at fast speed.
Severity of Liver Fibrosis Is Associated with the Japanese Diet Pattern and Skeletal Muscle Mass in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Matsumoto Yoshinari , Fujii Hideki , Harima Mika , Okamura Haruna , Yukawa-Muto Yoshimi , Odagiri Naoshi , Motoyama Hiroyuki , Kotani Kohei , Kozuka Ritsuzo , Kawamura Etsushi , Hagihara Atsushi , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Enomoto Masaru , Yasui Yoko , Habu Daiki , Kawada Norifumi
Published: February 2023

It is not fully clear as to which dietary patterns are associated with the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Asia. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 136 consecutively recruited patients with NAFLD (49% female, median age 60 years). Severity of liver fibrosis was assessed using the Agile 3+ score, a recently proposed system based on vibration-controlled transient elastography. Dietary status was assessed using the 12-component modified Japanese diet pattern index (mJDI12). Skeletal muscle mass was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Factors associated with intermediate–high-risk Agile 3+ scores and skeletal muscle mass (75th percentile or higher) were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. After adjustment for confounders, such as age and sex, the mJDI12 (OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.99) and skeletal muscle mass (75th percentile or higher) (OR: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.77) were significantly associated with intermediate–high-risk Agile 3+ scores. Soybeans and soybean foods were significantly associated with skeletal muscle mass (75th percentile or higher) (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.04). In conclusion, the Japanese diet pattern was associated with the severity of liver fibrosis in Japanese patients with NAFLD. Skeletal muscle mass was also associated with the severity of liver fibrosis, and intake of soybeans and soybean foods.
Association between Systemic Immunity-Inflammation Index and Hyperlipidemia: A Population-Based Study from the NHANES (2015–2020)
Authors: Mahemuti Nayili , Jing Xiyue , Zhang Naijian , Liu Chuanlang , Li Changping , Cui Zhuang , Liu Yuanyuan , Chen Jiageng
Published: February 2023

The systemic immunity-inflammation index (SII) is a novel inflammatory marker, and aberrant blood lipid levels are linked to inflammation. This study aimed to look at the probable link between SII and hyperlipidemia. The current cross-sectional investigation was carried out among people with complete SII and hyperlipidemia data from the 2015–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). SII was computed by dividing the platelet count × the neutrophil count/the lymphocyte count. The National Cholesterol Education Program standards were used to define hyperlipidemia. The nonlinear association between SII and hyperlipidemia was described using fitted smoothing curves and threshold effect analyses. A total of 6117 US adults were included in our study. A substantial positive correlation between SII and hyperlipidemia was found [1.03 (1.01, 1.05)] in a multivariate linear regression analysis. Age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes were not significantly correlated with this positive connection, according to subgroup analysis and interaction testing (p for interaction > 0.05). Additionally, we discovered a non-linear association between SII and hyperlipidemia with an inflection point of 479.15 using a two-segment linear regression model. Our findings suggest a significant association between SII levels and hyperlipidemia. More large-scale prospective studies are needed to investigate the role of SII in hyperlipidemia.
Red Meat Intake, Indole-3-Acetate, and Dorea longicatena Together Affect Insulin Resistance after Gastric Bypass
Authors: Prudêncio Ana Paula Aguiar , Fonseca Danielle Cristina , Machado Natasha Mendonça , Alves Juliana Tepedino Martins , Sala Priscila , Fernandes Gabriel R. , Torrinhas Raquel Susana , Waitzberg Dan Linetzky
Published: February 2023

Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass (RYGB) promotes improvement in type 2 diabetes (T2D) shortly after surgery, with metabolic mechanisms yet to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between food intake, tryptophan metabolism, and gut microbiota on the glycemic control of obese T2D women after RYGB surgery. Twenty T2D women who underwent RYGB were evaluated before and three months after surgery. Food intake data were obtained by a seven-day food record and a food frequency questionnaire. Tryptophan metabolites were determined by untargeted metabolomic analysis, and the gut microbiota was determined by 16S rRNA sequencing. The glycemic outcomes were fasting blood glucose, HbA1C, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-beta. Linear regression models were applied to assess the associations between the changes in food intake, tryptophan metabolism, and gut microbiota on glycemic control after RYGB. All variables changed after RYGB (p < 0.05), except for tryptophan intake. Jointly, the variation in red meat intake, plasma indole-3-acetate, and Dorea longicatena was associated with postoperative HOMA-IR {R2 0.80, R2 adj 0.74; p < 0.01}. Red meat intake decreased three months after bariatric surgery while indole-3-acetate and Dorea longicatena increased in the same period. These combined variables were associated with better insulin resistance in T2D women after RYGB.
Behaviour Change Techniques Used in Mediterranean Diet Interventions for Older Adults: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Turner Ashlee , LaMonica Haley M. , Flood Victoria M.
Published: February 2023

Mediterranean diet interventions have demonstrated positive effects in the prevention and management of several chronic conditions in older adults. Understanding the effective components of behavioural interventions is essential for long-term health behaviour change and translating evidence-based interventions into practice. The aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of the current Mediterranean diet interventions for older adults (≥55 years) and describe the behaviour change techniques used as part of the interventions. A scoping review systematically searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO from inception until August 2022. Eligible studies were randomized and non-randomized experimental studies involving a Mediterranean or anti-inflammatory diet intervention in older adults (average age > 55 years). Screening was conducted independently by two authors, with discrepancies being resolved by the senior author. Behaviour change techniques were assessed using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (version 1), which details 93 hierarchical techniques grouped into 16 categories. From 2385 articles, 31 studies were included in the final synthesis. Ten behaviour change taxonomy groupings and 19 techniques were reported across the 31 interventions. The mean number of techniques used was 5, with a range from 2 to 9. Common techniques included instruction on how to perform the behaviour (n = 31), social support (n = 24), providing information from a credible source (n = 16), information about health consequences (n = 15), and adding objects to the environment (n = 12). Although behaviour change techniques are commonly reported across interventions, the use of the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy for intervention development is rare, and more than 80% of the available techniques are not being utilised. Integrating behaviour change techniques in the development and reporting of nutrition interventions for older adults is essential for effectively targeting behaviours in both research and practice.
Mast Cells in Regeneration of the Skin in Burn Wound with Special Emphasis on Molecular Hydrogen Effect
Authors: Atiakshin Dmitri , Soboleva Mariya , Nikityuk Dmitry , Alexeeva Nataliya , Klochkova Svetlana , Kostin Andrey , Shishkina Viktoriya , Buchwalow Igor , Tiemann Markus
Published: February 2023

The mechanisms of regeneration for the fibrous component of the connective tissue of the dermis are still insufficiently studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of molecular hydrogen on the local therapy of a II degree burn wound with the intensification of collagen fibrillogenesis in the skin. We analyzed the involvement of mast cells (MCs) in the regeneration of the collagen fibers of the connective tissue using water with a high content of molecular hydrogen and in a therapeutic ointment for the cell wounds. Thermal burns led to an increase in the skin MC population, accompanied by a systemic rearrangement of the extracellular matrix. The use of molecular hydrogen for the treatment of burn wounds stimulated the regeneration processes by activating the formation of the fibrous component of the dermis, accelerating wound healing. Thus, the intensification of collagen fibrillogenesis was comparable to the effects of a therapeutic ointment. The remodeling of the extracellular matrix correlated with a decrease in the area of damaged skin. Skin regeneration induced by the activation of the secretory activity of MCs may be one of the possible points of implementation of the biological effects of molecular hydrogen in the treatment of burn wounds. Thus, the positive effects of molecular hydrogen on skin repair can be used in clinical practice to increase the effectiveness of therapy after thermal exposure.