bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choice Experiment Assessment of Consumer Preferences for Yogurt Products Attributes: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Chang Min-Yen , Huang Chien-Cheng , Du Ying-Chi , Chen Han-Shen
Published: August 2022

Previous studies on consumer yogurt preferences have mainly focused on added sugar, nutrient content, and health claims, leaving several knowledge gaps that should be filled through in-depth research. In this study, a more complete multi-attribute preference model was developed using the number of probiotic types, type of milk source, presence of edible gels (GEL), and usage of health food labels as the main yogurt attributes. A choice experiment (CE) was then conducted to investigate the relationship between multiple attribute preferences and willingness-to-pay (WTP). A total of 435 valid questionnaires were collected by the convenience sampling method. The results show that (1) respondents highly value the health food label (HEA), followed by the number of probiotic types (PRO); (2) the highest WTP in the conditional logit (CL) model was New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) (USD 10.5 for HEA, and the lowest was NTD 1.0 for 100% milk powder (MLK2); (3) in the random-parameter logit (RPL) model, the highest WTP was NTD 14.6 for HEA, and the lowest was NTD 2.8 for GEL; (4) the most preferred attribute combination of yogurt was “8 or more probiotic types”, “a blend of raw milk and milk powder”, “the absence of edible gels”, “the presence of a health food label”, and “a price premium of NTD 6–10”; (5) married respondents with children were more willing to pay extra for yogurt products with a higher number of probiotic types and a health food label. The results may help the food industry understand and pay attention to consumer needs, which will, in turn, provide a reference for future product development and marketing strategies.
Comparison between the Choices Five-Level Criteria and Nutri-Score: Alignment with the Dutch Food-Based Dietary Guidelines
Authors: Konings Jaimy J. C. , Smorenburg Herbert , Roodenburg Annet J. C.
Published: August 2022

The current food environment in The Netherlands is considered obesogenic. Eighty percent of the products in supermarkets are unhealthy. The Wheel of Five is the well-established, science-based Dutch food-based dietary guideline (FBDG) developed to stimulate healthier choices. In addition, simple directions on food packaging, such as front-of-package (FOP) health logos, could also be helpful. However, these tools should be in line with each other, in order not to confuse the consumer. To study this, we evaluated two FOP nutrient profiling systems (NPSs) for their alignment with the Wheel of Five: Choices five-level criteria and Nutri-Score. For this, a small but representative sample of 124 products was selected from the Dutch food composition database (NEVO). For these products, the scores for Choices and Nutri-Score were calculated using the published criteria, while compliance with the Wheel of Five was established by using the criteria from Netherlands Nutrition Center (NNC). The Wheel of Five food groups were used to categorize the products. Differences between the Wheel of Five and Choices are smaller than with Nutri-Score, concluding that Choices is more consistent with the Wheel of Five and might be an attractive alternation for a FOP health logo on the Dutch market.
Essential Amino Acid Ingestion Facilitates Leucine Retention and Attenuates Myofibrillar Protein Breakdown following Bodyweight Resistance Exercise in Young Adults in a Home-Based Setting
Authors: Waskiw-Ford Marcus , Hodson Nathan , Fung Hugo J. W. , West Daniel W. D. , Apong Philip , Bashir Raza , Moore Daniel R.
Published: August 2022

Home-based resistance exercise (RE) has become increasingly prevalent, but its effects on protein metabolism are understudied. We tested the effect of an essential amino acid formulation (EAA+: 9 g EAAs, 3 g leucine) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs: 6 g BCAAs, 3 g leucine), relative to a carbohydrate (CHO) placebo, on exogenous leucine retention and myofibrillar protein breakdown following dynamic bodyweight RE in a home-based setting. Twelve recreationally active adults (nine male, three female) participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study with four trial conditions: (i) RE and EAA+ (EX-EAA+); (ii) RE and BCAAs (EX-BCAA); (iii) RE and CHO placebo (EX-CHO); and (iv) rest and CHO placebo (REST-CHO). Total exogenous leucine oxidation and retention (estimates of whole-body anabolism) and urinary 3-methylhistidine:creatinine ratio (3MH:Cr; estimate of muscle catabolism) were assessed over 5 h post-supplement. Total exogenous leucine oxidation and retention in EX-EAA+ and EX-BCAA did not significantly differ (p = 0.116) but were greater than EX-CHO (p < 0.01). There was a main effect of condition on urinary 3MH:Cr (p = 0.034), with post hoc analysis revealing a trend (p = 0.096) for reduced urinary 3MH:Cr with EX-EAA+ (32%) compared to EX-CHO. By direct comparison, urinary 3MH:Cr was significantly lower (23%) in EX-EAA+ than EX-BCAA (p = 0.026). In summary, the ingestion of EAA+ or BCAA provided leucine that was ~60% retained for protein synthesis following home-based bodyweight RE, but EAA+ most effectively attenuated myofibrillar protein breakdown.
A Randomized Trial of the Effects of Dietary n3-PUFAs on Skeletal Muscle Function and Acute Exercise Response in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Kunz Hawley E. , Michie Kelly L. , Gries Kevin J. , Zhang Xiaoyan , Ryan Zachary C. , Lanza Ian R.
Published: August 2022

Skeletal muscle is critical for maintaining mobility, independence, and metabolic health in older adults. However, a common feature of aging is the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, which is often accompanied by mitochondrial impairments, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance. Exercise improves muscle strength, mitochondrial health, and cardiorespiratory fitness, but older adults often exhibit attenuated anabolic responses to acute exercise. Chronic inflammation associated with aging may contribute to this “anabolic resistance” and therapeutic interventions that target inflammation may improve exercise responsiveness. To this end, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of 6 months of dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3-PUFA) supplementation on skeletal muscle function (mass, strength), mitochondrial physiology (respiration, ATP production, ROS generation), and acute exercise responsiveness at the level of the muscle (fractional synthesis rate) and the whole-body (amino acid kinetics) in healthy older adults. When compared with a corn oil placebo (n = 33; 71.5 ± 4.8 years), older adults treated with 4 g/day n3-PUFA (n = 30; 71.4 ± 4.5 years) exhibited modest but significant increases in muscle strength (3.1 ± 14.7% increase in placebo vs. 7.5 ± 14.1% increase in n3-PUFA; p = 0.039). These improvements in muscle strength with n3-PUFA supplementation occurred in the absence of any effects on mitochondrial function and a minor attenuation of the acute response to exercise compared to placebo. Together, these data suggest modest benefits of dietary n3-PUFAs to muscle function in healthy older adults. Future studies may elucidate whether n3-PUFA supplementation improves the exercise response in elderly individuals with co-morbidities, such as chronic inflammatory disease or sarcopenia.
Inflammatory Markers in Non-Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Are Not Elevated and Show No Correlation with Vitamin D Metabolites
Authors: Moin Abu Saleh Md , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Atkin Stephen L. , Butler Alexandra E.
Published: August 2022

Introduction. Chronic low-grade inflammation is a characteristic of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), although this may be obesity-driven rather than an intrinsic facet of PCOS; furthermore, vitamin D deficiency, another common feature of PCOS, is reported to have an association with increased inflammation. Therefore, circulating inflammatory protein levels and circulating levels of vitamin D may be linked in PCOS, though it is unclear which vitamin D metabolites may be important. Methods. We measured plasma levels of 24 inflammatory proteins and 12 matrix metalloproteinases (proteins modulated by the inflammatory process) by slow off-rate modified aptamer (SOMA)-scan plasma protein measurement in weight and aged-matched non-obese non-insulin resistant PCOS (n = 24) and control (n = 24) women. Inflammatory proteins and matrix metalloproteinases were correlated to 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), its epimer 25-hydroxy-3epi-vitamin D (3epi25(OH)D) and the active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) as measured by gold standard isotope-dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Results. PCOS women had both an elevated free androgen index and circulating anti-mullerian hormone, though insulin resistance was comparable to controls. C-reactive protein, as a standard circulatory marker of inflammation, was comparable between cohorts. Levels of circulating inflammatory proteins and matrix metalloproteinases were not different between the PCOS and control women, with no correlation of 25(OH)D3, 1,25(OH)2D3 or 3epi25(OH)D with any of the inflammatory proteins. Conclusion. In a non-obese PCOS population matched for age and insulin resistance, circulating inflammatory proteins and matrix metalloproteinases were not elevated and did not correlate with 25(OH)D3, its epimer 3epi25(OH)D or 1,25(OH)2D3 in either control or PCOS women, indicating that the inflammatory response is absent and the vitamin D-metabolite independent in non-obese women with PCOS.
Clostridium butyricum Potentially Improves Immunity and Nutrition through Alteration of the Microbiota and Metabolism of Elderly People with Malnutrition in Long-Term Care
Authors: Liu Lin , Chen Xiang , Liu Lu , Qin Huanlong
Published: August 2022

Recent research advances examining the gut microbiome and its association with human health have indicated that microbiota-targeted intervention is a promising means for health modulation. In this study, elderly people in long-term care (aged 83.2 ± 5.3 year) with malnutrition (MNA-SF score ≤ 7) were recruited in a community hospital for a 12-week randomized, single-blind clinical trial with Clostridium butyricum. Compared with the basal fluctuations of the control group, an altered gut microbiome was observed in the intervention group, with increased (p < 0.05) Coprobacillus species, Carnobacterium divergens, and Corynebacterium_massiliense, and the promoted growth of the beneficial organisms Akketmanse muciniphila and Alistipes putredinis. A concentrated profile of 14 increased Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) orthologs (KOs) that were enriched in cofactor/vitamin production and carbohydrate metabolism pathways were discovered; the genes were found to be correlated (p < 0.05) with an elevated abundance of plasma metabolites and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), unsaturated medium- to long-chain fatty acids (MFA, LFA), carnitines, and amino acids, thus suggesting a coordinated ameliorated metabolism. Proinflammatory factor interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels decreased (p < 0.05) throughout the intervention, while the gut barrier tight junction protein, occludin, rose in abundance (p = 0.059), and the sensitive nutrition biomarker prealbumin improved, in contrast to the opposite changes in control. Based on our results obtained during a relatively short intervention time, C. butyricum might have great potential for improving nutrition and immunity in elderly people in long-term care with malnutrition through the alteration of gut microbiota, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria and activating the metabolism in SCFA and cofactor/vitamin production, bile acid metabolism, along with efficient energy generation.
The Intake of Ultra-Processed Foods and Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease: The Health Examinees Study
Authors: Kityo Anthony , Lee Sang-Ah
Published: August 2022

Emerging evidence links several health outcomes to the consumption of ultra-processed food (UPF), but few studies have investigated the association between UPF intake and kidney function. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in relation to UPF intake in Korea. Data were obtained from the 2004–2013 Health Examinees (HEXA) study. The intake of UPF was assessed using a 106-item food frequency questionnaire and evaluated using the NOVA classification. The prevalence of CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/m2. Poisson regression models were used to compute the prevalence ratios (PR) of CKD according to quartiles of the proportion of UPF intake (% food weight). A total of 134,544 (66.4% women) with a mean age of 52.0 years and an eGFR of 92.7 mL/min/m2 were analysed. The median proportion of UPF in the diet was 5.6%. After adjusting for potential confounders, the highest quartile of UPF intake was associated with the highest prevalence of CKD (PR 1.16, 95% CI 1.07–1.25), and every IQR (6.6%) increase in the proportion of UPF in the diet was associated with a 6% higher prevalence of CKD (PR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03–1.09). Furthermore, the highest consumption of UPF was inversely associated with eGFR (Q4 vs. Q1: β −1.07, 95% CI −1.35, −0.79; per IQR increment: (β −0.45, 95% CI −0.58, −0.32). The intake of UPF was associated with a high prevalence of CKD and a reduced eGFR. Longitudinal studies in the Korean population are needed to corroborate existing findings in other populations.
Exploring the Potential of Human Milk and Formula Milk on Infants’ Gut and Health
Authors: Chong Hui-Yuan , Tan Loh Teng-Hern , Law Jodi Woan-Fei , Hong Kar-Wai , Ratnasingam Vanassa , Ab Mutalib Nurul-Syakima , Lee Learn-Han , Letchumanan Vengadesh
Published: August 2022

Early-life gut microbiota plays a role in determining the health and risk of developing diseases in later life. Various perinatal factors have been shown to contribute to the development and establishment of infant gut microbiota. One of the important factors influencing the infant gut microbial colonization and composition is the mode of infant feeding. While infant formula milk has been designed to resemble human milk as much as possible, the gut microbiome of infants who receive formula milk differs from that of infants who are fed human milk. A diverse microbial population in human milk and the microbes seed the infant gut microbiome. Human milk contains nutritional components that promote infant growth and bioactive components, such as human milk oligosaccharides, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulins, which contribute to immunological development. In an attempt to encourage the formation of a healthy gut microbiome comparable to that of a breastfed infant, manufacturers often supplement infant formula with prebiotics or probiotics, which are known to have a bifidogenic effect and can modulate the immune system. This review aims to elucidate the roles of human milk and formula milk on infants’ gut and health.
Anticolon Cancer Effect of Korean Red Ginseng via Autophagy- and Apoptosis-Mediated Cell Death
Authors: Kang Kyoung , Yao Cheng , Piao Mei , Zhen Ao , Fernando Pincha , Herath Herath , Song Seung , Cho Suk , Hyun Jin
Published: August 2022

Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been used in East Asian traditional medicine for a long time. Korean red ginseng (KRG) is effective against several disorders, including cancer. The cytotoxic effects of KRG extract in terms of autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death and its mechanisms were investigated using human colorectal cancer lines. KRG induced autophagy-mediated cell death with enhanced expression of Atg5, Beclin-1, and LC3, and formed characteristic vacuoles in HCT-116 and SNU-1033 cells. An autophagy inhibitor prevented cell death induced by KRG. KRG generated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS); antioxidant countered this effect and decreased autophagy. KRG caused apoptotic cell death by increasing apoptotic cells and sub-G1 cells, and by activating caspases. A caspase inhibitor suppressed cell death induced by KRG. KRG increased phospho-Bcl-2 expression, but decreased Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, interaction of Bcl-2 with Beclin-1 was attenuated by KRG. Ginsenoside Rg2 was the most effective ginsenoside responsible for KRG-induced autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death. KRG induced autophagy- and apoptosis-mediated cell death via mitochondrial ROS generation, and thus its administration may inhibit colon carcinogenesis.
Thymus serpyllum Exhibits Anti-Diabetic Potential in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Mice: A Combined Biochemical and In Vivo Study
Authors: Azhar Jahanzaib , John Peter , Bhatti Attya
Published: August 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex metabolic disorder that is characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and lack of insulin production. It has been previously reported that Thymus serpyllum has therapeutic potential against many diseases. To investigate the antidiabetic action of Thymus serpyllum, this study aimed to analyze its restorative impact in diabetic mice, in which it was administered in diet. Diabetes was induced in BALB/c mice fed with a high-fat diet and two intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin. With the onset of diabetes, the mice were administered daily with aqueous extract of Thymus serpyllum (500 mg/kg/d and 800 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks. Body weight and fasting blood glucose levels were measured after every 1 week of the treatment. Subsequently, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests were conducted. In addition, liver tissue was isolated for assessment in terms of levels of gene expression of the AMPK, IRS1, and GLUT2 gene. Treatment with the aqueous extract of Thymus serpyllum was found to be significantly effective in controlling hyperglycemia and improving glucose and insulin tolerance. Predictable with these impacts, the extract of Thymus serpyllum upregulated the AMPK expression at the mRNA level, as well as upregulating the expression of IRS1 and GLUT2 gene. Histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, and pancreas also revealed the restorative impact in terms of cellular morphology. The results hence demonstrated that oral administration of aqueous extract of Thymus serpyllum can potentially attenuate hyperglycemia in the liver muscle of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice via AMPK and IRS1 upregulation.
Effects of Dexamethasone and Pentoxifylline on Mania-like and Depression-like Behaviors in Rats
Authors: Nassar Ahmad , Azab Abed N.
Published: August 2022

Several studies support the notion that inflammation plays a role in the pathophysiology and treatment approaches of psychiatric illnesses, particularly mood disorders. Congruently, classic anti-inflammatory drugs were found efficacious in randomized clinical trials of patients with mood disorders. Moreover, accumulating data indicate that psychotropic drugs exhibit some anti-inflammatory effects. This study was undertaken to examine the efficacy of dexamethasone (a potent corticosteroid) and pentoxifylline (a methylxanthine drug with proven anti-tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitory activity) in behavioral models in rats, which were treated intraperitoneally with either dexamethasone or pentoxifylline for two weeks and then subjected to a battery of behavioral tests. Treatment with pentoxifylline, but not dexamethasone, was associated with antidepressant-like and anti-manic-like effects. The beneficial behavioral effects of pentoxifylline were accompanied by a prominent reduction in pro-inflammatory mediator levels in the brain. For the first time, the current work proves the efficacy of pentoxifylline against both mania-like and depressive-like behaviors. These results suggest that pentoxifylline may be a promising therapeutic intervention for patients with mood disorders. Taking into account the excellent tolerability profile of pentoxifylline in humans, it is warranted to conduct randomized clinical trials to investigate its therapeutic efficacy in patients with psychiatric disorders.
Discovering a Multi-Component Combination against Vascular Dementia from Danshen-Honghua Herbal Pair by Spectrum-Effect Relationship Analysis
Authors: Zhang Peilin , He Shiru , Wu Siqi , Li Yi , Wang Huiying , Yan Changyang , Yang Hua , Li Ping
Published: August 2022

The Danshen-Honghua (DH) herbal pair exhibits a synergistic effect in protecting the cerebrovascular system from ischemia/reperfusion injury, but the therapeutic effect on vascular dementia (VaD) has not been clarified, and the main active ingredient group has not been clarified. In this work, the chemical constituents in DH herbal pair extract were characterized by UHPLC-QTOF MS, and a total of 72 compounds were identified. Moreover, the DH herbal pair alleviated phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced thrombosis and improved bisphenol F (BPF)- and ponatinib-induced brain injury in zebrafish. Furthermore, the spectrum-effect relationship between the fingerprint of the DH herbal pair and the antithrombotic and neuroprotective efficacy was analyzed, and 11 chemical components were screened out as the multi-component combination (MCC) against VaD. Among them, the two compounds with the highest content were salvianolic acid B (17.31 ± 0.20 mg/g) and hydroxysafflor yellow A (15.85 ± 0.19 mg/g). Finally, we combined these 11 candidate compounds as the MCC and found that it could improve thrombosis and neuronal injury in three zebrafish models and rat bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) model, which had similar efficacy compared to the DH herbal pair. This study provides research ideas for the treatment of VaD and the clinical application of the DH herbal pair.
Combination of Talazoparib and Calcitriol Enhanced Anticancer Effect in Triple−Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Wong Fu Hou , Palanirajan Vijayaraj Kumar , Ng Edmond Siah Chye , Tan Chung Keat , Tan Eugenie Sin Sing , Amini Farahnaz
Published: August 2022

Monotherapy for triple−negative breast cancer (TNBC) is often ineffective. This study aimed to investigate the effect of calcitriol and talazoparib combination on cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis and cell cycle in TNBC cell lines. Monotherapies and their combination were studied for (i.) antiproliferative effect (using real−time cell analyzer assay), (ii.) cell migration (CIM−Plate assay), and (iii.) apoptosis and cell cycle analysis (flow cytometry) in MDA−MB−468 and BT−20 cell lines. The optimal antiproliferative concentration of talazoparib and calcitriol in BT−20 was 91.6 and 10 µM, respectively, and in MDA−MB−468, it was 1 mM and 10 µM. Combined treatment significantly increased inhibition of cell migration in both cell lines. The combined treatment in BT−20 significantly increased late apoptosis (89.05 vs. control 0.63%) and S and G2/M populations (31.95 and 24.29% vs. control (18.62 and 12.09%)). Combined treatment in MDA−MB−468 significantly increased the S population (45.72%) and decreased G0/G1 (45.86%) vs. the control (26.79 and 59.78%, respectively). In MDA−MB−468, combined treatment significantly increased necrosis, early and late apoptosis (7.13, 33.53 and 47.1% vs. control (1.5, 3.1 and 2.83%, respectively)). Talazoparib and calcitriol combination significantly affected cell proliferation and migration, induction of apoptosis and necrosis in TNBC cell lines. This combination could be useful as a formulation to treat TNBC.
Influence of Mechanical Skin Treatments on Dermal Penetration Efficacy of Active Ingredients
Authors: Keck Cornelia M. , Chaiprateep Em-on , Dietrich Henriette , Sengupta Soma
Published: August 2022

The effective dermal penetration of active ingredients (AI) is a major task in the formulation of topical products. Besides the vehicle, the mechanical skin treatments are also considered to impact the penetration efficacy of AI. In particular, professional skin treatments, i.e., professional cosmetic skin treatments, are considered to be optimal for the dermal delivery of AI. However, a systematic study that proves these theories is not yet available and was therefore performed in this study while utilizing an ex vivo porcine ear model with subsequent digital image analysis. Hydrophilic and lipophilic fluorescent dyes were used as AI surrogates and were applied onto the skin without and with professional skin treatments. The skin hydration and the penetration efficacy were determined, respectively. Results showed that professional skin treatments with massage were able to increase the skin hydration, whereas a professional skin treatment without massage could not increase the skin hydration when compared to skin without professional skin treatment. Regarding the penetration efficacy, it was found that all parameters tested, i.e., type of professional skin treatment, lipophilicity of the AI, and the time point at which the AI are applied onto the skin, can have a tremendous impact on the penetration efficacy of the AI. The most effective penetration and the most effective skin hydration is achieved with a professional skin treatment that includes a professional skin massage. This kind of skin treatment can therefore be used to improve dermal drug delivery.
Penetration Depth of Propylene Glycol, Sodium Fluorescein and Nile Red into the Skin Using Non-Invasive Two-Photon Excited FLIM
Authors: Alhibah Mohammad , Kröger Marius , Schanzer Sabine , Busch Loris , Lademann Jürgen , Beckers Ingeborg , Meinke Martina C. , Darvin Maxim E.
Published: August 2022

The stratum corneum (SC) forms a strong barrier against topical drug delivery. Therefore, understanding the penetration depth and pathways into the SC is important for the efficiency of drug delivery and cosmetic safety. In this study, TPT-FLIM (two-photon tomography combined with fluorescence lifetime imaging) was applied as a non-invasive optical method for the visualization of skin structure and components to study penetration depths of exemplary substances, like hydrophilic propylene glycol (PG), sodium fluorescein (NaFl) and lipophilic Nile red (NR) into porcine ear skin ex vivo. Non-fluorescent PG was detected indirectly based on the pH-dependent increase in the fluorescence lifetime of SC components. The pH similarity between PG and viable epidermis limited the detection of PG. NaFl reached the viable epidermis, which was also proved by laser scanning microscopy. Tape stripping and confocal Raman micro-spectroscopy were performed additionally to study NaFl, which revealed penetration depths of ≈5 and ≈8 μm, respectively. Lastly, NR did not permeate the SC. We concluded that the amplitude-weighted mean fluorescence lifetime is the most appropriate FLIM parameter to build up penetration profiles. This work is anticipated to provide a non-invasive TPT-FLIM method for studying the penetration of topically applied drugs and cosmetics into the skin.
Modeling the Probability of HIV Infection over Time in High-Risk Seronegative Participants Receiving Placebo in Five Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Trials: A Patient-Level Pooled Analysis
Authors: Garcia-Cremades Maria , Hendrix Craig W. , Jayachandran Priya , Strydom Natasha , Jarlsberg Leah , Grant Robert , Celum Connie L. , Martin Michael , Baeten Jared M. , Marrazzo Jeanne , Anderson Peter , Choopanya Kachit , Vanichseni Suphak , Glidden David V. , Savic Radojka M.
Published: August 2022

The World Health Organization recommends pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection. The aim of this analysis is to quantify the individual risk of HIV infection over time, using a large database of high-risk individuals (n = 5583). We used data from placebo recipients in five phase III PrEP trials: iPrEx, conducted in men who have sex with men and transgender women; VOICE, conducted in young women at high sexual risk; Partners PrEP, conducted in HIV serodiscordant heterosexual couples; TDF2, conducted in high-risk heterosexual men and women; and BTS, conducted in persons who inject drugs. The probability of HIV infection over time was estimated using NONMEM7.4. We identified predictors of HIV risk and found a substantial difference in the risk of infection among and within trial populations, with each study including a mix of low, moderate, and high-risk individuals (p < 0.05). Persons who were female at birth were at a higher risk of HIV infection than people who were male at birth. Final models were integrated in a tool that can assess person-specific risk and simulate cumulative HIV risk over time. These models can be used to optimize future PrEP clinical trials by identifying potential participants at highest risk.
Anti-Fibrotic Effect of SDF-1β Overexpression in Bleomycin-Injured Rat Lung
Authors: Fytianos Kleanthis , Schliep Ronja , Mykoniati Sofia , Khan Petra , Hostettler Katrin E. , Tamm Michael , Gazdhar Amiq , Knudsen Lars , Geiser Thomas
Published: August 2022

Rational: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease and is associated with high mortality due to a lack of effective treatment. Excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix by activated myofibroblasts in the alveolar space leads to scar formation that hinders gas exchange. Therefore, selectively removing activated myofibroblasts with the aim to repair and remodel fibrotic lungs is a promising approach. Stromal-derived growth factor (SDF-1) is known to stimulate cellular signals which attract stem cells to the site of injury for tissue repair and remodeling. Here, we investigate the effect of overexpression of SDF-1β on lung structure using the bleomycin-injured rat lung model. Methods: Intratracheal administration of bleomycin was performed in adult male rats (F344). Seven days later, in vivo electroporation-mediated gene transfer of either SDF-1β or the empty vector was performed. Animals were sacrificed seven days after gene transfer and histology, design-based stereology, flow cytometry, and collagen measurement were performed on the tissue collected. For in vitro experiments, lung fibroblasts obtained from IPF patients were used. Results: Seven days after SDF-1β gene transfer to bleomycin-injured rat lungs, reduced total collagen, reduced collagen fibrils, improved histology and induced apoptosis of myofibroblasts were observed. Furthermore, it was revealed that TNF-α mediates SDF-1β-induced apoptosis of myofibroblasts; moreover, SDF-1β overexpression increased alveolar epithelial cell numbers and proliferation in vivo and also induced their migration in vitro. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a new antifibrotic mechanism of SDF-1β overexpression and suggests SDF-1β as a potential new approach for the treatment of lung fibrosis.
Lung-Targeted Delivery of Cepharanthine by an Erythrocyte-Anchoring Strategy for the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Zheng Jinpeng , Lu Caihong , Yang Meiyan , Sun Jiejie , Zhang Jinbang , Meng Yuanyuan , Wang Yuli , Li Zhiping , Yang Yang , Gong Wei , Gao Chunsheng
Published: August 2022

As one of the most frequent complications of critical illness, acute lung injury (ALI) carries a high risk of clinical morbidity and mortality. Cepharanthine (CPA) has significant anti-inflammatory activity, however, due to poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and short half-life, it fails to provide effective clinical management measures. Here, we explored the flexibility of an erythrocyte-anchoring strategy using CPA-encapsulated chitosan-coating nanoparticles (CPA-CNPs) anchored onto circulating erythrocytes for the treatment of ALI. CPA-CNPs adhered to erythrocytes successfully (E-CPA-CNPs) and exhibited high erythrocyte adhesion efficiency (>80%). Limited toxicity and favorable biocompatibility enabled further application of E-CPA-CNPs. Next, the reticuloendothelial system evasion features were analyzed in RAW264.7 macrophages and Sprague-Dawley rats. Compared with bare CPA-CNPs, erythrocyte-anchored CNPs significantly decreased cellular uptake in immune cells and prolonged circulation time in vivo. Notably, the erythrocyte-anchoring strategy enabled CNPs to be delivered and accumulated in the lungs (up to 6-fold). In the ALI mouse model, E-CPA-CNPs attenuated the progression of ALI by inhibiting inflammatory responses. Overall, our results demonstrate the outstanding advantages of erythrocyte-anchored CPA-CNPs in improving the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of CPA, which offers great promise for a lung-targeted drug delivery system for the effective treatment of ALI.
Medication Adherence and Compliance: Recipe for Improving Patient Outcomes
Authors: Aremu Taiwo Opeyemi , Oluwole Oluwatosin Esther , Adeyinka Kehinde Oluwatosin , Schommer Jon C.
Published: August 2022

The indices of patients’ health outcomes have historically included recurrence of symptoms, number of emergency visits, hospitalization and re-admission rates, morbidity, and mortality. As significant healthcare players, providers can influence these events, including the timeliness of diagnosis and disease management, the cost of treatment, access to health insurance, and medication adherence. Beyond healthcare availability and access, the ability of patients to adhere to providers’ treatment recommendations goes a long way to serve as a recipe for improving patient outcomes. Unfortunately, medication nonadherence has been prevalent, culminating in worsened health conditions, increased cost of care, and increased healthcare spending. This article provides some innovative ideas and good considerations for encouraging medication adherence. Improving providers’ and patients’ education and adopting active and passive communication, including consented reminders, could enhance compliance. Embracing partnerships between providers’ organizations and faith-based and community organizations could drive adherence. Adopting an income-based cap on out-of-pocket spending and adapting the physical properties, bioavailability, and dosage regimen of medications to accommodate diverse patient population preferences could encourage refills and compliance. Good medication adherence can culminate in improved patient outcomes.
Recognizing Cold Atmospheric Plasma Plume Using Computer Vision
Authors: Lazarus Marisa , Yan Dayun , Limanowski Ruby , Lin Li , Keidar Michael
Published: August 2022

Over the last three decades, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has been heavily investigated in a wide range of biological applications, including wound healing, microorganism sterilization, and cancer treatment. Atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are the most common plasma sources in plasma medicine. An APPJ’s size determines its application range and approach in treatment. In this study, we demonstrated the real-time recognition of an APPJ’s plasma plume output using computer vision (CV), dramatically improving the measurement speed compared to the traditional method of using the naked eye. Our work provides a framework to monitor an aspect of an APPJ’s performance in real time, which is a necessary step to achieving an intelligent CAP source.
Influence of Pine and Alder Woodchips Storage Method on the Chemical Composition and Sugar Yield in Liquid Biofuel Production
Authors: Szadkowska Dominika , Auriga Radosław , Lesiak Anna , Szadkowski Jan , Marchwicka Monika
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of storing methods of woodchips from two species, pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and alder (Alnus Mill.), on the basic chemical composition and sugar yield in liquid biofuel production. Two methods of storing woody biomass were used in the study—an open pile and a cover pile. The wood was felled at the end of November and was stored as industrial chips for eight months from December onward. After this time, material was collected for chemical composition analyses and enzymatic hydrolysis. The results of the chemical composition analysis of the wood for both studied species showed the influence of the type of storage on the composition of the individual structural components of the wood. Based on the results of the enzymatic hydrolysis of the woody biomass, it can be seen that, irrespective of the hydrolysed material (wood, cellulose, holocellulose), the material from the biomass stored in the open pile gave higher results. The hydrolysis efficiency also increased with time, independent of the type of material that was hydrolysed. The highest sugar yield from the enzymatic hydrolysis of wood was obtained for alder wood stored in an open pile. The highest sugar yield from the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose was obtained for cellulose extracted from alder wood—as well—that had been stored in an open pile.
Using Polymer–Surfactant Charge Ratio to Control Synergistic Flocculation of Anionic Particulate Dispersions
Authors: Hill Christopher , Abdullahi Wasiu , Crossman Martin , Griffiths Peter Charles
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the flocculation induced destabilization of particulate dispersions by oppositely charged polymer–surfactant complexes, with a particular focus on controlling interactions by modulating the charge ratio Z, (where Z = [+polymer]/[−surfactant]) via [−surfactant] at fixed Cpolymer. Cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose (cat-HEC) polymer-sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) complexes were prepared with either excess polymer (Z > 1) or surfactant (Z < 1) charges. Anionic particulate dispersions (Ludox and polystyrene-butadiene Latex) were then exposed to the complexes, and solvent relaxation NMR was used to characterize the particle surfaces before and after exposure. In both particulate dispersions, flocculation induced destabilization was enhanced after exposure to cat-HEC-SDS complexes with Z > 1, leaving any excess particle surfaces uncoated after gentle centrifugation. However, complexes with Z < 1 showed no adsorption and destabilization in the Ludox dispersions and only slight destabilization in the Latex dispersions due to possible hydrophobic interactions. Substituting SDS for non-ionic surfactant (C12E6) showed no additional destabilization of the dispersions, but post-centrifugation relaxation rates indicated preferential adsorption of C12E6 onto the particle surfaces. Since the dominant forces are electrostatic, this study highlights the possibility of controlling the interactions between oppositely charged polymer–surfactant complexes and particle surfaces by modulating Z through [−surfactant].
Development and Characterization of Unmodified and Modified Natural Rubber Composites Filled with Modified Clay
Authors: Keereerak Adisak , Sukkhata Nusara , Lehman Nussana , Nakaramontri Yeampon , Sengloyluan Karnda , Johns Jobish , Kalkornsurapranee Ekwipoo
Published: August 2022

Novel composite based on rubber and modified bentonite clay (Clay) was investigated. The modified bentonite clay was developed by dispersing in ethanol solutions (Et-OH) using ultrasonic method. The effect of Et-OH on the dispersion of bentonite clay at various mixing temperatures in case of different type of rubber matrix, i.e., natural rubber (NR), epoxidized natural rubber (ENR25, ENR50) on dynamic mechanical rheology, Payne effect, XRD and mechanical properties of rubber composites were studied in detail. The bentonite clay dispersion in Et-OH at a mixing temperature of 80 °C improves the intercalation and exfoliation in rubber chains. Bentonite clay is highly intercalated in ENR 50-Clay composite, which can be confirmed from its superior mechanical properties. The results indicated that sonication of bentonite clay in Et-OH improves the interlayer spacing of bentonite clay by partial intercalation of rubber matrix.
A Comparative Study on the Self-Healing Characterizations and Formulation Optimization of Polyurea Coating
Authors: Shen Xinrui , Dong Zhenyuan , Sim Celine , Li Yuanzhe
Published: August 2022

Self-healing materials, especially self-healing polyurea/polyurethane, to replace traditional coating has been of increasing interest in the past decade. The frequency of regular maintenance work can also be reduced as the coating is capable of forming bonds at ruptured sites. This reduces the cost of maintenance and the risk involved in workers engaging in maintenance work. The extremely short curing time of polyurea coating could potentially outweigh the cost due to its short down time. With a high self-healing efficiency, self-healing polyurea could be the ultimate choice of protective coating. This report aims to find the optimum formulation for fabrication of polyurea with a high self-healing efficiency. This is conducted by changing the composition of the components chosen for formulation of polyurea. The choice of isocyanate and amine is varied to explore its impact on chain mobility and microphase separation, which are important factors affecting self-healing efficiency. A series of characterizations, including ATR-FTIR, DSC, optical microscope and mechanical tester, is used to analyze the factors affecting the self-healing efficiency of fabricated polyurea and to eventually determine the best formulation. The ideal formulation of toluene 2,4 diisocyanate-amine (TDI-P1000) polyurea managed to achieve a self-healing of 42%. Further studies could be done to include multiple healing mechanisms after different area of polyurea to boost its self-healing efficiency after repeated healing.
Effect of Sizing Agent on the Mechanical, Thermal, and Electrical Performance of Basalt Fiber/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Ma Long , Fu Xiaotao , Zhang Cong , Chen Lincong , Chen Xiaolin , Fu Chuanfu , Yu Yunfei , Liu Hechen
Published: August 2022

Basalt fiber and its resin composites have gradually supplanted traditional steel and glass fiber composites due to their superior strength, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance. However, basalt fiber still has significant flaws that restrict the functionality and use of its composites, such as less active functional groups and poor resin adherence. This study examines the effects of sizing agent on the characteristics of basalt fiber/epoxy resin composites. Epoxy resin emulsion and acrylate emulsion are employed as the primary auxiliary film-forming agents in this study. Polyurethane emulsion with various content levels is also used. The findings indicate that a 1% wt. of polyurethane emulsion concentration produces the greatest results, increasing the composite’s flexural strength, flexural modulus, tensile strength, and interlaminar shear strength by 122%, 34.0%, 102%, and 10.2%, respectively. At the same time, the storage modulus and Tg of the material will decrease. In addition, the breakdown strength can be raised by 112%, and insulation parameters such as leakage current and dielectric loss factor can be decreased by 26.4% and 15.6%, respectively. The effect of sizing agent B is the best.
Optimization of Oligomer Chitosan/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Coating for Enhancing Antibacterial, Hemostatic Effects and Biocompatibility of Nanofibrous Wound Dressing
Authors: Doan Vinh Khanh , Tran Chien Minh , Ho Trinh Thi-Phuong , Nguyen Linh Kim-Khanh , Nguyen Yen Ngoc , Tang Ngan Tuan , Luong Tin Dai , Dang Nhi Ngoc-Thao , Tran Nam Minh-Phuong , Vu Binh Thanh , Nguyen Hoai Thi-Thu , Huynh Quyen Thuc , Nguyen Hien Quoc , Dang Chien Mau , Phan Thang Bach , Ta Hanh Thi-Kieu , Pham Viet Hung , Le Thanh Dinh , Vo Toi Van , Nguyen Hiep Thi
Published: August 2022

A synergistic multilayer membrane design is necessary to satisfy a multitude of requirements of an ideal wound dressing. In this study, trilayer dressings with asymmetric wettability, composed of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) base membranes coated with oligomer chitosan (COS) in various concentrations of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), are fabricated for wound dressing application. The membranes are expected to synergize the hygroscopic, antibacterial, hemostatic, and biocompatible properties of PCL and COS. The wound dressing was coated by spraying the solution of 3% COS and 6% PVP on the PCL base membrane (PVP6–3) three times, which shows good interaction with biological subjects, including bacterial strains and blood components. PVP6–3 samples confirm the diameter of inhibition zones of 20.0 ± 2.5 and 17.9 ± 2.5 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. The membrane induces hemostasis with a blood clotting index of 74% after 5 min of contact. In the mice model, wounds treated with PVP6–3 closed 95% of the area after 10 days. Histological study determines the progression of skin regeneration with the construction of granulation tissue, new vascular systems, and hair follicles. Furthermore, the newly-growth skin shares structural resemblances to that of native tissue. This study suggests a simple approach to a multi-purpose wound dressing for clinical treatment.
Comparison of Models to Predict Mechanical Properties of FR-AM Composites and a Fractographical Study
Authors: Leon-Becerra Juan , González-Estrada Octavio Andrés , Sánchez-Acevedo Heller
Published: August 2022

Continuous fiber-reinforced additive manufacturing (cFRAM) composites improve the mechanical properties of polymer components. Given the recent interest in their mechanical performance and failure mechanisms, this work aims to describe the principal failure mechanisms and compare the prediction capabilities for the mechanical properties, stiffness constants, and strength of cFRAM using two distinct predictive models. This work presents experimental tensile tests of continuous carbon fiber AM composites varying their reinforced fraction, printing direction, and fiber angle. In the first predictive model, a micromechanical-based model for stiffness and strength predicts their macroscopic response. In the second part, data-driven models using different machine learning algorithms for regression are trained to predict stiffness and strength based on critical parameters. Both models are assessed regarding their accuracy, ease of implementation, and generalization capabilities. Moreover, microstructural images are used for a qualitative evaluation of the parameters and their influence on the macroscopic response and failure surface topology. Finally, we conclude that although predicting the mechanical properties of cFRAM is a complex task, it can be carried on a Gaussian process regression and a micromechanical model, with good accuracy generalized onto different process parameters specimens.
Optimize PLA/EVA Polymers Blend Compositional Coating for Next Generation Biodegradable Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Ishaque Naila , Naseer Nauman , Abbas Muhammad Asad , Javed Fatima , Mushtaq Shehla , Ahmad Nasir M. , Khan Muhammad Farhan Ali , Ahmed Naveed , Elaissari Abdelhamid
Published: August 2022

In this research work, polymer blends of poly-lactic acid (PLA)/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) were prepared as the drug carrier materials for a bi-layer drug-loaded coating film for coronary stents. Different optimum compositions of blends were prepared by using an intense mixer. Then, the blends were hot-pressed and later cold-pressed to prepare for films of different thickness. The changes in weight, surface analysis and biodegradability with increasing time were studied using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), weight loss and biodegradability tests. The mechanical and thermal properties of drug-loaded films were studied through universal testing machine (UTM) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). The effects of PLA, EVA and drug contents on in-vitro drug contents were investigated through the Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-VIS) chemical analysis technique. The results obtained clearly showed that the addition of PLA promoted the unleashing of the drug whereas the addition of EVA nearly did not have the same affect. The mechanical properties of these various films can be tuned by adjusting the contents of blend parts. The factors affecting the unleashing of the drug became a serious matter of concern in evaluating the performance of bio-resorbable drug eluting stents. As a result, today’s chemical blends may be useful drug carrier materials for drug-loaded tube coatings capable delivering purgative drug in an incredibly tunable and regulated manner.