bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Propolis, Bee Honey, and Their Components Protect against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Review of In Silico, In Vitro, and Clinical Studies
Authors: Ali Amira Mohammed , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

Despite the virulence and high fatality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), no specific antiviral treatment exists until the current moment. Natural agents with immune-promoting potentials such as bee products are being explored as possible treatments. Bee honey and propolis are rich in bioactive compounds that express strong antimicrobial, bactericidal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant activities. This review examined the literature for the anti-COVID-19 effects of bee honey and propolis, with the aim of optimizing the use of these handy products as prophylactic or adjuvant treatments for people infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Molecular simulations show that flavonoids in propolis and honey (e.g., rutin, naringin, caffeic acid phenyl ester, luteolin, and artepillin C) may inhibit viral spike fusion in host cells, viral-host interactions that trigger the cytokine storm, and viral replication. Similar to the potent antiviral drug remdesivir, rutin, propolis ethanolic extract, and propolis liposomes inhibited non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro, and these compounds along with naringin inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection in Vero E6 cells. Propolis extracts delivered by nanocarriers exhibit better antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2 than ethanolic extracts. In line, hospitalized COVID-19 patients receiving green Brazilian propolis or a combination of honey and Nigella sativa exhibited earlier viral clearance, symptom recovery, discharge from the hospital as well as less mortality than counterparts receiving standard care alone. Thus, the use of bee products as an adjuvant treatment for COVID-19 may produce beneficial effects. Implications for treatment outcomes and issues to be considered in future studies are discussed.
Phase-Transition Thermal Charging of a Channel-Shape Thermal Energy Storage Unit: Taguchi Optimization Approach and Copper Foam Inserts
Authors: Ghalambaz Mohammad , Mehryan Seyed Abdollah Mansouri , Hajjar Ahmad , Younis Obai , Sheremet Mikhail A. , Pour Mohsen Saffari , Hulme-Smith Christopher
Published: February 2021

Thermal energy storage is a technique that has the potential to contribute to future energy grids to reduce fluctuations in supply from renewable energy sources. The principle of energy storage is to drive an endothermic phase change when excess energy is available and to allow the phase change to reverse and release heat when energy demand exceeds supply. Unwanted charge leakage and low heat transfer rates can limit the effectiveness of the units, but both of these problems can be mitigated by incorporating a metal foam into the design of the storage unit. This study demonstrates the benefits of adding copper foam into a thermal energy storage unit based on capric acid enhanced by copper nanoparticles. The volume fraction of nanoparticles and the location and porosity of the foam were optimized using the Taguchi approach to minimize the charge leakage expected from simulations. Placing the foam layer at the bottom of the unit with the maximum possible height and minimum porosity led to the lowest charge time. The optimum concentration of nanoparticles was found to be 4 vol.%, while the maximu possible concentration was 6 vol.%. The use of an optimized design of the enclosure and the optimum fraction of nanoparticles led to a predicted charging time for the unit that was approximately 58% shorter than that of the worst design. A sensitivity analysis shows that the height of the foam layer and its porosity are the dominant variables, and the location of the porous layer and volume fraction of nanoparticles are of secondary importance. Therefore, a well-designed location and size of a metal foam layer could be used to improve the charging speed of thermal energy storage units significantly. In such designs, the porosity and the placement-location of the foam should be considered more strongly than other factors.
Classification of Greek Olive Oils from Different Regions by Machine Learning-Aided Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Gyftokostas Nikolaos , Nanou Eleni , Stefas Dimitrios , Kokkinos Vasileios , Bouras Christos , Couris Stelios
Published: February 2021

In the present work, the emission and the absorption spectra of numerous Greek olive oil samples and mixtures of them, obtained by two spectroscopic techniques, namely Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Absorption Spectroscopy, and aided by machine learning algorithms, were employed for the discrimination/classification of olive oils regarding their geographical origin. Both emission and absorption spectra were initially preprocessed by means of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and were subsequently used for the construction of predictive models, employing Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Support Vector Machines (SVM). All data analysis methodologies were validated by both “k-fold” cross-validation and external validation methods. In all cases, very high classification accuracies were found, up to 100%. The present results demonstrate the advantages of machine learning implementation for improving the capabilities of these spectroscopic techniques as tools for efficient olive oil quality monitoring and control.
Phosphorylation of Phylogenetically Conserved Amino Acid Residues Confines HBx within Different Cell Compartments of Human Hepatocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Prieto Cristian , Montecinos Juan , Jiménez Gustavo , Riquelme Constanza , Garrido Daniel , Hernández Sergio , Loyola Alejandra , Villanueva Rodrigo A.
Published: February 2021

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a circular, and partially double-stranded DNA virus. Upon infection, the viral genome is translocated into the cell nucleus, generating the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) intermediate, and forming a mini chromosome. HBV HBx is a small protein displaying multiple roles in HBV-infected cells, and in different subcellular locations. In the nucleus, the HBx protein is required to initiate and maintain viral transcription from the viral mini chromosome. In contrast, HBx also functions in the cytoplasm, where it is able to alter multiple cellular functions such as mitochondria metabolism, apoptosis and signal transduction pathways. It has been reported that in cultured cells, at low expression levels, the HBx protein is localized in the nucleus, whereas at high expression levels, it accumulates in the cytoplasm. This dynamic subcellular distribution of HBx might be essential to exert its multiple roles during viral infection. However, the mechanism that regulates different subcellular localizations of the HBx protein is unknown. We have previously taken a bioinformatics approach to investigate whether HBx might be regulated via post-translational modification, and we have proposed that the multiple nucleocytoplasmic functions of HBx might be regulated by an evolutionarily conserved mechanism via phosphorylation. In the current study, phylogenetically conserved amino acids of HBx with a high potential of phosphorylation were targeted for site-directed mutagenesis. Two conserved serine (Ser25 and Ser41), and one conserved threonine (Thr81) amino acids were replaced by either alanine or aspartic acid residues to simulate an unphosphorylated or phosphorylated state, respectively. Human hepatoma cells were transfected with increasing amounts of the HBx DNA constructs, and the cells were analyzed by fluorescence microscopy. Together, our results show that the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of the HBx protein could be regulated by phosphorylation since some of the modified proteins were mainly confined to distinct subcellular compartments. Remarkably, both HBx Ser41A, and HBx Thr81D proteins were predominantly localized within the nuclear compartment throughout the different expression levels of HBx mutants.
Improvement of Phase Change Materials (PCM) Used for Solar Process Heat Applications
Authors: Prieto Cristina , Lopez-Roman Anton , Martínez Noelia , Morera Josep M. , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: February 2021

The high intermittency of solar energy is still a challenge yet to be overcome. The use of thermal storage has proven to be a good option, with phase change materials (PCM) as very promising candidates. Nevertheless, PCM compounds have typically poor thermal conductivity, reducing their attractiveness for commercial uses. This paper demonstrates the viability of increasing the PCM effective thermal conductivity to industrial required values (around 4 W/m·K) by using metal wool infiltrated into the resin under vacuum conditions. To achieve this result, the authors used an inert resin, decoupling the specific PCM material selection from the enhancement effect of the metal wools. To ensure proper behavior of the metal wool under standard industrial environments at a broad range of temperatures, a set of analyses were performed at high temperatures and an inert atmosphere, presenting a thorough analysis of the obtained results.
Local and Systemic In Vivo Responses to Osseointegrative Titanium Nanotube Surfaces
Authors: Baker Erin A. , Fleischer Mackenzie M. , Vara Alexander D. , Salisbury Meagan R. , Baker Kevin C. , Fortin Paul T. , Friedrich Craig R.
Published: February 2021

Orthopedic implants requiring osseointegration are often surface modified; however, implants may shed these coatings and generate wear debris leading to complications. Titanium nanotubes (TiNT), a new surface treatment, may promote osseointegration. In this study, in vitro (rat marrow-derived bone marrow cell attachment and morphology) and in vivo (rat model of intramedullary fixation) experiments characterized local and systemic responses of two TiNT surface morphologies, aligned and trabecular, via animal and remote organ weight, metal ion, hematologic, and nondecalcified histologic analyses. In vitro experiments showed total adherent cells on trabecular and aligned TiNT surfaces were greater than control at 30 min and 4 h, and cells were smaller in diameter and more eccentric. Control animals gained more weight, on average; however, no animals met the institutional trigger for weight loss. No hematologic parameters (complete blood count with differential) were significantly different for TiNT groups vs. control. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) showed greater aluminum levels in the lungs of the trabecular TiNT group than in those of the controls. Histologic analysis demonstrated no inflammatory infiltrate, cytotoxic, or necrotic conditions in proximity of K-wires. There were significantly fewer eosinophils/basophils and neutrophils in the distal region of trabecular TiNT-implanted femora; and, in the midshaft of aligned TiNT-implanted femora, there were significantly fewer foreign body giant/multinucleated cells and neutrophils, indicating a decreased immune response in aligned TiNT-implanted femora compared to controls.
Correlation between Optical Localization-State and Electrical Deep-Level State in In0.52Al0.48As/In0.53Ga0.47As Quantum Well Structure
Authors: Ahn Il-Ho , Kim Deuk Young , Lee Sejoon
Published: February 2021

The peculiar correlationship between the optical localization-state and the electrical deep-level defect-state was observed in the In0.52Al0.48As/In0.53Ga0.47As quantum well structure that comprises two quantum-confined electron-states and two hole-subbands. The sample clearly exhibited the Fermi edge singularity (FES) peak in its photoluminescence spectrum at 10–300 K; and the FES peak was analyzed in terms of the phenomenological line shape model with key physical parameters such as the Fermi energy, the hole localization energy, and the band-to-band transition amplitude. Through the comprehensive studies on both the theoretical calculation and the experimental evaluation of the energy band profile, we found out that the localized state, which is separated above by ~0.07 eV from the first excited hole-subband, corresponds to the deep-level state, residing at the position of ~0.75 eV far below the conduction band (i.e., near the valence band edge).
Perinatal and Early-Life Nutrition, Epigenetics, and Allergy
Authors: Acevedo Nathalie , Alashkar Alhamwe Bilal , Caraballo Luis , Ding Mei , Ferrante Antonio , Garn Holger , Garssen Johan , Hii Charles S. , Irvine James , Llinás-Caballero Kevin , López Juan Felipe , Miethe Sarah , Perveen Khalida , Pogge von Strandmann Elke , Sokolowska Milena , Potaczek Daniel P. , van Esch Betty C. A. M.
Published: February 2021

Epidemiological studies have shown a dramatic increase in the incidence and the prevalence of allergic diseases over the last several decades. Environmental triggers including risk factors (e.g., pollution), the loss of rural living conditions (e.g., farming conditions), and nutritional status (e.g., maternal, breastfeeding) are considered major contributors to this increase. The influences of these environmental factors are thought to be mediated by epigenetic mechanisms which are heritable, reversible, and biologically relevant biochemical modifications of the chromatin carrying the genetic information without changing the nucleotide sequence of the genome. An important feature characterizing epigenetically-mediated processes is the existence of a time frame where the induced effects are the strongest and therefore most crucial. This period between conception, pregnancy, and the first years of life (e.g., first 1000 days) is considered the optimal time for environmental factors, such as nutrition, to exert their beneficial epigenetic effects. In the current review, we discussed the impact of the exposure to bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungal components, microbiome metabolites, and specific nutritional components (e.g., polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), vitamins, plant- and animal-derived microRNAs, breast milk) on the epigenetic patterns related to allergic manifestations. We gave insight into the epigenetic signature of bioactive milk components and the effects of specific nutrition on neonatal T cell development. Several lines of evidence suggest that atypical metabolic reprogramming induced by extrinsic factors such as allergens, viruses, pollutants, diet, or microbiome might drive cellular metabolic dysfunctions and defective immune responses in allergic disease. Therefore, we described the current knowledge on the relationship between immunometabolism and allergy mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. The knowledge as presented will give insight into epigenetic changes and the potential of maternal and post-natal nutrition on the development of allergic disease.
A Comparison of the In Vitro Effects of 2’Fucosyllactose and Lactose on the Composition and Activity of Gut Microbiota from Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Van den Abbeele Pieter , Sprenger Norbert , Ghyselinck Jonas , Marsaux Benoît , Marzorati Massimo , Rochat Florence
Published: February 2021

Because of the recognized health benefits of breast milk, it is recommended as the sole nutrition source during the first 6 months of life. Among the bioactive components are human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) that exert part of their activity via the gut microbiota. Here, we investigated the gut microbiota fermentation of HMO 2’fucosyllactose (2’-FL), using two in vitro models (48 h fecal incubations and the long-term mucosal simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem [M-SHIME®]) with fecal samples from 3-month-old breastfed (BF) infants as well as 2–3 year old toddlers. The short-term model allowed the screening of five donors for each group and provided supportive data for the M-SHIME® study. A key finding was the strong and immediate increase in the relative abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae following 2’-FL fermentation by both the BF infant and toddler microbiota in the M-SHIME®. At the metabolic level, while decreasing branched-chain fatty acids, 2’-FL strongly increased acetate production together with increases in the health-related propionate and butyrate whilst gas production only mildly increased. Notably, consistently lower gas production was observed with 2’-FL fermentation as compared to lactose, suggesting that reduced discomfort during the dynamic microbiome establishment in early life may be an advantage along with the bifidogenic effect observed.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Dietary Polyphenols
Authors: Shakoor Hira , Feehan Jack , Apostolopoulos Vasso , Platat Carine , Al Dhaheri Ayesha Salem , Ali Habiba I. , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Bosevski Marijan , Stojanovska Lily
Published: February 2021

Functional and nutraceutical foods provide an alternative way to improve immune function to aid in the management of various diseases. Traditionally, many medicinal products have been derived from natural compounds with healing properties. With the development of research into nutraceuticals, it is becoming apparent that many of the beneficial properties of these compounds are at least partly due to the presence of polyphenols. There is evidence that dietary polyphenols can influence dendritic cells, have an immunomodulatory effect on macrophages, increase proliferation of B cells, T cells and suppress Type 1 T helper (Th1), Th2, Th17 and Th9 cells. Polyphenols reduce inflammation by suppressing the pro-inflammatory cytokines in inflammatory bowel disease by inducing Treg cells in the intestine, inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and induction of apoptosis, decreasing DNA damage. Polyphenols have a potential role in prevention/treatment of auto-immune diseases like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis by regulating signaling pathways, suppressing inflammation and limiting demyelination. In addition, polyphenols cause immunomodulatory effects against allergic reaction and autoimmune disease by inhibition of autoimmune T cell proliferation and downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1, interferon-γ (IFN-γ)). Herein, we summarize the immunomodulatory effects of polyphenols and the underlying mechanisms involved in the stimulation of immune responses.
Prenatal Maternal Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Supplementation and Newborn Anthropometry in India: Findings from DHANI
Authors: Khandelwal Shweta , Kondal Dimple , Chaudhry Monica , Patil Kamal , Swamy Mallaiah Kenchaveeraiah , Pujeri Gangubai , Mane Swati Babu , Kudachi Yashaswi , Gupta Ruby , Ramakrishnan Usha , Stein Aryeh D. , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Tandon Nikhil
Published: February 2021

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acid status during pregnancy may influence newborn anthropometry and duration of gestation. Evidence from high-quality trials from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited. We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial among 957 pregnant women (singleton gestation, 14–20 weeks’ gestation at enrollment) in India to test the effectiveness of 400 mg/day algal docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) compared to placebo provided from enrollment through delivery. Among 3379 women who were screened, 1171 were found eligible; 957 were enrolled and were randomized. The intervention was two microencapsulated algal DHA (200 × 2 = 400 mg/day) or two microencapsulated soy and corn oil placebo tablets to be consumed daily from enrollment (≤20 weeks) through delivery. The primary outcome was newborn anthropometry (birth weight, length, head circumference). Secondary outcomes were gestational age and 1 and 5 min Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (APGAR) score. The groups (DHA; n = 478 and placebo; n = 479) were well balanced at baseline. There were 902 live births. Compliance with the intervention was similar across groups (DHA: 88.5%; placebo: 87.1%). There were no significant differences between DHA and placebo groups for birth weight (2750.6 ± 421.5 vs. 2768.2 ± 436.6 g, p = 0.54), length (47.3 ± 2.0 vs. 47.5 ± 2.0 cm, p = 0.13), or head circumference (33.7 ± 1.4 vs. 33.8 ± 1.4 cm, p = 0.15). The mean gestational age at delivery was similar between groups (DHA: 38.8 ± 1.7 placebo: 38.8 ± 1.7 wk, p = 0.54) as were APGAR scores at 1 and 5 min. Supplementing mothers through pregnancy with 400 mg/day DHA did not impact the offspring‘s birthweight, length, or head circumference.
The Role of Gut Bacterial Metabolites in Brain Development, Aging and Disease
Authors: Tran Shirley Mei-Sin , Mohajeri M. Hasan
Published: February 2021

In the last decade, emerging evidence has reported correlations between the gut microbiome and human health and disease, including those affecting the brain. We performed a systematic assessment of the available literature focusing on gut bacterial metabolites and their associations with diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). The bacterial metabolites short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as well as non-SCFAs like amino acid metabolites (AAMs) and bacterial amyloids are described in particular. We found significantly altered SCFA levels in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affective disorders, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Non-SCFAs yielded less significantly distinct changes in faecal levels of patients and healthy controls, with the majority of findings were derived from urinary and blood samples. Preclinical studies have implicated different bacterial metabolites with potentially beneficial as well as detrimental mechanisms in brain diseases. Examples include immunomodulation and changes in catecholamine production by histone deacetylase inhibition, anti-inflammatory effects through activity on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and involvement in protein misfolding. Overall, our findings highlight the existence of altered bacterial metabolites in patients across various brain diseases, as well as potential neuroactive effects by which gut-derived SCFAs, p-cresol, indole derivatives and bacterial amyloids could impact disease development and progression. The findings summarized in this review could lead to further insights into the gut–brain–axis and thus into potential diagnostic, therapeutic or preventive strategies in brain diseases.
The Nutraceutical N-Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Reveals Widespread Molecular Effects Unmasking New Therapeutic Targets in Murine Varicocele
Authors: Antonuccio Pietro , Marini Herbert , Micali Antonio , Romeo Carmelo , Granese Roberta , Retto Annalisa , Martino Antonia , Benvenga Salvatore , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Impellizzeri Daniela , Di Paola Rosanna , Fusco Roberta , Cervellione Raimondo , Minutoli Letteria
Published: February 2021

Varicocele is an age-related disease with no current medical treatments positively impacting infertility. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression is present in normal testis with an involvement in the immunological reactions. The role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), a nuclear receptor, in fertility is still unclear. N-Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an emerging nutraceutical compound present in plants and animal foods, is an endogenous PPAR-α agonist with well-demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesics characteristics. In this model of mice varicocele, PPAR-α and TLR4 receptors’ roles were investigated through the administration of ultra-micronized PEA (PEA-um). Male wild-type (WT), PPAR-α knockout (KO), and TLR4 KO mice were used. A group underwent sham operation and administration of vehicle or PEA-um (10 mg/kg i.p.) for 21 days. Another group (WT, PPAR-α KO, and TLR4 KO) underwent surgical varicocele and was treated with vehicle or PEA-um (10 mg/kg i.p.) for 21 days. At the end of treatments, all animals were euthanized. Both operated and contralateral testes were processed for histological and morphometric assessment, for PPAR-α, TLR4, occludin, and claudin-11 immunohistochemistry and for PPAR-α, TLR4, transforming growth factor-beta3 (TGF-β3), phospho-extracellular signal-Regulated-Kinase (p-ERK) 1/2, and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) Western blot analysis. Collectively, our data showed that administration of PEA-um revealed a key role of PPAR-α and TLR4 in varicocele pathophysiology, unmasking new nutraceutical therapeutic targets for future varicocele research and supporting surgical management of male infertility.
High-Dose Vitamin C in Advanced-Stage Cancer Patients
Authors: Zasowska-Nowak Anna , Nowak Piotr Jan , Ciałkowska-Rysz Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

High-dose intravenously administered vitamin C (IVC) is widely used in cancer patients by complementary and alternative medicine practitioners. The most frequent indications for IVC therapy result from the belief in its effectiveness as a potent anti-cancer agent which additionally enhances chemosensitivity of cancer cells and reduces chemotherapy-related toxicities and fatigue intensity. In this narrative review, we decided to deal with this issue, trying to answer the question whether there is any scientific evidence supporting the rationale for application of high-dose IVC therapy in advanced-stage cancer patients. Although results obtained from preclinical studies demonstrated that millimolar ascorbate plasma concentrations achievable only after IVC administration were cytotoxic to fast-growing malignant cells and inhibited tumor growth as well as prolonged the survival of laboratory animals, such positive effects were not found in human studies with advanced-stage cancer patients. We also have not found the rationale for the use of IVC to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy and to reduce the chemotherapy-induced toxicity in the above mentioned group. Nevertheless, in palliative care, high-dose IVC might be considered as a therapy improving the quality of life and reducing cancer-related symptoms, such as fatigue and bone pain. However, because of the absence of placebo-controlled randomized trials on IVC efficacy in advanced-stage cancer patients, the placebo effect cannot be excluded.
Vitamin D Deficiency is Associated with Handgrip Strength, Nutritional Status and T2DM in Community-Dwelling Older Mexican Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mendoza-Garcés Luciano , Velázquez-Alva María Consuelo , Cabrer-Rosales María Fernanda , Arrieta-Cruz Isabel , Gutiérrez-Juárez Roger , Irigoyen-Camacho María Esther
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between handgrip strength, nutritional status and vitamin D deficiency in Mexican community-dwelling older women. A cross sectional study in women ≥ 60 years-old was performed. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were measured by a quantitative immunoassay technique. Handgrip strength was assessed using a dynamometer, while nutritional status was assessed through the Full Mini Nutritional Assessment (Full-MNA). A total of 116 women participated in the study, their mean age was 70.3 ± 5.8 years; 49.1% of the study group had plasma 25(OH)D levels lower than 40 nmol/L [16 ng/mL]. Meanwhile, 28.45% of participants had low handgrip strength (<16 kg), and 23.1% were identified at risk of malnutrition/malnourished according with Full-MNA score. Women with 25(OH)D deficiency (<40 nmol/L [16 ng/mL]) were more likely to have low handgrip strength (OR = 2.64, p = 0.025) compared with those with higher 25(OH)D values. Additionally, being malnourished or at risk of malnutrition (OR = 2.53, p = 0.045) or having type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (OR = 2.92, p = 0.044) was also associated with low 25(OH)D. The prevalence of low plasma 25(OH)D concentrations was high among Mexican active older women. Low handgrip strength, being at risk of malnutrition/malnourished, or diagnosed with T2DM was also associated with Vitamin D deficiency.
Gastric Enzyme Supplementation Inhibits Food Allergy in a BALB/c Mouse Model
Authors: Samadi Nazanin , Heiden Denise , Klems Martina , Salzmann Martina , Rohrhofer Johanna , Weidmann Eleonore , Koidl Larissa , Jensen-Jarolim Erika , Untersmayr Eva
Published: February 2021

Impaired gastric digestion due to suppressed gastric acidity enhances the risk for food allergy development. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of a supported gastric digestion via application of a pharmaceutical gastric enzyme solution (GES) on food allergy development and allergic reactions in a BALB/c mouse model. The ability of the GES to restore hypoacidic conditions was tested in mice treated with gastric acid suppression medication. To evaluate the impact on allergic symptoms, mice were orally sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) under gastric acid suppression and subjected to oral challenges with or without GES. The immune response was evaluated by measurement of antibody titers, cytokine levels, mucosal allergy effector cell influx and regulatory T-cell counts. Clinical response was objectified by core body temperature measurements after oral OVA challenge. Supplementation of GES transiently restored physiological pH levels in the stomach after pharmaceutical gastric acid suppression. During oral sensitization, supplementation of gastric enzymes significantly reduced systemic IgE, IgG1 and IgG2a levels and allergic symptoms. In food allergic mice, clinical symptoms were reduced by co-administration of the gastric enzyme solution. Support of gastric digestion efficiently prevents food allergy induction and alleviates clinical symptoms in our food allergy model.
Is the Mediterranean Diet the Best Approach to NAFLD Treatment Today?
Authors: Angelico Francesco , Ferro Domenico , Baratta Francesco
Published: February 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide, involving about 20–30% of the general population [...]
Notable Developments for Vitamin D Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, but Caution Warranted Overall: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lordan Ronan
Published: February 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel contagion that has infected over 113 million people worldwide. It is responsible for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which has cost the lives of 2.5 million people. Ergo, the global scientific community has been scrambling to repurpose or develop therapeutics to treat COVID-19. Dietary supplements and nutraceuticals are among those under consideration due to the link between nutritional status and patient outcomes. Overall, poor vitamin D status seems to be associated with an increased risk of COVID-19. Severely ill COVID-19 patients appear to be deficient or have suboptimal levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, a measure of vitamin D status. Consequently, vitamin D is now the subject of several prophylactic and therapeutic clinical trials. In this review, the general status of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements amid the pandemic is appraised, with a particular focus on vitamin D. Consumers should be aware of misinformation and unsubstantiated promises for products marketed for COVID-19 protection. However, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle will likely maintain health including optimum immune function that may affect patient outcomes. Those who are deficient in key nutrients such as vitamin D should consider lifestyle changes and potentially supplementation in consultation with their physician and/or registered dieticians.
Diets, Foods and Food Components’ Effect on Dyslipidemia
Authors: Fogacci Federica , Borghi Claudio , Cicero Arrigo F. G.
Published: February 2021

Hypercholesterolemia is a well-known independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a recognized target of pharmacological therapeutic agents in both primary and secondary prevention [...]
Current Evidence and Possible Future Applications of Creatine Supplementation for Older Adults
Authors: Candow Darren G. , Forbes Scott C. , Kirk Ben , Duque Gustavo
Published: February 2021

Sarcopenia, defined as age-related reduction in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance, is associated with other age-related health conditions such as osteoporosis, osteosarcopenia, sarcopenic obesity, physical frailty, and cachexia. From a healthy aging perspective, lifestyle interventions that may help overcome characteristics and associated comorbidities of sarcopenia are clinically important. One possible intervention is creatine supplementation (CR). Accumulating research over the past few decades shows that CR, primarily when combined with resistance training (RT), has favourable effects on aging muscle, bone and fat mass, muscle and bone strength, and tasks of physical performance in healthy older adults. However, research is very limited regarding the efficacy of CR in older adults with sarcopenia or osteoporosis and no research exists in older adults with osteosarcopenia, sarcopenic obesity, physical frailty, or cachexia. Therefore, the purpose of this narrative review is (1) to evaluate and summarize current research involving CR, with and without RT, on properties of muscle and bone in older adults and (2) to provide a rationale and justification for future research involving CR in older adults with osteosarcopenia, sarcopenic obesity, physical frailty, or cachexia.
Associations between Coparenting Quality and Food Parenting Practices among Mothers and Fathers in the Guelph Family Health Study
Authors: Douglas Sabrina , Darlington Gerarda , Beaton John , Davison Kirsten , Haines Jess ,   on behalf of the Guelph Family Health Study
Published: February 2021

Coparenting quality and food parenting practices have been shown to have a strong influence on child outcomes. However, little is known about whether coparenting quality may influence food parenting practices. This study aimed to investigate how coparenting quality is associated with both mothers’ and fathers’ food parenting practices. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of 58 mothers and 40 fathers enrolled in the Guelph Family Health Study. The Coparenting Relationship Scale and the Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire were used to measure coparenting and food parenting practices, respectively. Linear regressions using generalized estimating equations were used to examine associations between coparenting quality and food parenting practices in mothers and fathers. Among mothers, higher coparenting quality was associated with lower use of food for emotional regulation, restriction of food for health, and child control of food intake and with higher encouragement of a balanced and varied diet, provision of a healthy home environment, and modeling of healthy eating behaviors. Among fathers, higher coparenting quality was associated with lower pressure to eat and with higher encouragement of a balanced and varied diet and provision of a healthy home environment. Coparenting quality is associated with food parenting practices among both mothers and fathers. Interventions aiming to improve food parenting practices should include fathers and should consider targeting parents’ coparenting relationship.
The Effectiveness and Safety of Multi-Strain Probiotic Preparation in Patients with Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Skrzydło-Radomańska Barbara , Prozorow-Król Beata , Cichoż-Lach Halina , Majsiak Emilia , Bierła Joanna Beata , Kanarek Ewelina , Sowińska Agnieszka , Cukrowska Bożena
Published: February 2021

The aim of this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of multi-strain probiotic in adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). The patients were randomized to receive a mixture of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus thermophilus strains or placebo for eight weeks. Primary endpoints included changes in symptom severity and improvement assessed with the IBS Severity Scoring System (IBS-SSS) and Global Improvement Scale (IBS-GIS). The probiotic in comparison with placebo significantly improved the IBS symptom severity (the change of total IBS-SSS score from baseline −165.8 ± 78.9 in the probiotic group and −105.6 ± 60.2 in the placebo group, p = 0.005) and in the specific scores related to the severity of pain (p = 0.015) and the quality of life (p = 0.016) after eight weeks of intervention. The probiotic group indicated an improvement in symptoms with the use of the IBS-GIS compared with the placebo group after four (p = 0.04) and eight weeks (p = 0.003). The occurrence of adverse events did not differ between study groups. In conclusion, the multi-strain probiotic intervention resulted in a significant improvement in IBS symptoms evaluated with the use of both IBS-SSS and IBS-GIS scales. The results suggest that the studied probiotic preparation is well tolerated and safe and can offer benefits for patients with IBS-D. (registration number in Clinicaltrials.gov NCT 04662957).
Navy Bean Supplementation in Established High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Attenuates the Severity of the Obese Inflammatory Phenotype
Authors: Monk Jennifer M. , Wu Wenqing , Lepp Dion , Pauls K. Peter , Robinson Lindsay E. , Power Krista A.
Published: February 2021

Cooked common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) improve intestinal health in lean mice and attenuate intestinal dysbiosis and inflammation when consumed concurrent with obesity development. We determined the effects of a high-fat (HF) bean supplemented diet in mice with established obesity (induced by 12 weeks of HF diet (60% fat as kcal)) compared to obese mice consuming a HF or low-fat (LF) weight loss control diet. Obese C57BL/6 male mice remained consuming HF for eight weeks or were randomly switched from HF to an isocaloric HF with 15.7% cooked navy bean powder diet (HF→HFB) or LF (11% fat as kcal; HF→LF) (n = 12/group). HF→HFB improved the obese phenotype, including (i) fecal microbiome (increased Prevotella, Akkermansia muciniphila, and short-chain fatty acid levels), (ii) intestinal health (increased ZO-1, claudin-2, Muc2, Relmβ, and Reg3γ expression), and (iii) reduced adipose tissue (AT) inflammatory proteins (NFκBp65, STAT3, IL-6, MCP-1, and MIP-1α), versus HF (p < 0.05). Conversely, HF→LF reduced body weight and circulating hormones (leptin, resistin, and PAI-1) versus HF and HF→HFB (p < 0.05); however, AT inflammation and intestinal health markers were not improved to the same degree as HF→HFB (p < 0.05). Despite remaining on a HF obesogenic diet, introducing beans in established obesity improved the obese phenotype (intestinal health and adipose inflammation) more substantially than weight loss alone.
Very-Low-Calorie Ketogenic Diet as a Safe and Valuable Tool for Long-Term Glycemic Management in Patients with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Moriconi Eleonora , Camajani Elisabetta , Fabbri Andrea , Lenzi Andrea , Caprio Massimiliano
Published: February 2021

Obesity-related type 2 diabetes represents one of the most difficult challenges for the healthcare system. This retrospective study aims to determine the efficacy, safety and durability of a very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD), compared to a standard low-calorie diet (LCD) on weight-loss, glycemic management, eating behavior and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity. Thirty patients with obesity and T2DM, aged between 35 and 75 years, who met the inclusion criteria and accepted to adhere to a VLCKD or a LCD nutritional program, were consecutively selected from our electronic database. Fifteen patients followed a structured VLCKD protocol, fifteen followed a classical LCD. At the beginning of the nutritional protocol, all patients were asked to stop any antidiabetic medications, with the exception of metformin. Data were collected at baseline and after 3 (T1) and 12 (T2) months. At T1 and T2, BMI was significantly reduced in the VLCKD group (p < 0.001), whereas it remained substantially unchanged in the LCD group. HbA1c was significantly reduced in the VLCKD group (p = 0.002), whereas a slight, although not significant, decrease was observed in the LCD group. Quality of life and eating behavior scores were improved in the VLCKD group, whereas no significant changes were reported in the LCD group, both at T1 and T2. At the end of the study, in the VLCKD group 26.6% of patients had stopped all antidiabetic medications, and 73.3% were taking only metformin, whereas 46.6% of LCD patients had to increase antidiabetic medications. The study confirms a valuable therapeutic effect of VLCKD in the long-term management of obesity and T2DM and its potential contribution to remission of the disease.
Perception of the Role of Food and Dietary Modifications in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Impact on Lifestyle
Authors: Guida Laura , Di Giorgio Francesca Maria , Busacca Anita , Carrozza Lucio , Ciminnisi Stefania , Almasio Piero Luigi , Di Marco Vito , Cappello Maria
Published: February 2021

Background: Diet has a relevant role in triggering symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from the patients’ perspective, but there is gap the between patients’ and doctors’ perceptions. Few studies have addressed this topic. The aim of this study was to evaluate food habits and nutrition knowledge in a homogeneous cohort of patients with IBD from southern Italy. Methods: 167 consecutive patients with IBD were recruited. The survey was based on the administration of a semi-structured questionnaire assessing demographics, disease features, dietary behavior, and food intolerance. Results: The majority of patients did not consider food a cause of their disease. However more than 80% changed their diet after the diagnosis and most report an improvement in symptoms. Spiced and seasoned foods, dairy products, vegetables, and fruit were often avoided. A dairy-free diet was adopted by 33.7%. Food choices were based on self-experience and not on medical counselling. Dietary modifications deeply impact on lifestyle. Conclusions: Most of the patients with IBD set diet and lifestyle on self-experience and give up many foods. This has an impact on psychosocial functioning and can lead to nutritional deficiencies. High quality studies are warranted to assess evidence-based dietary strategies and develop patient-targeted dietary recommendations.
A Pilot Study Comparing the Effects of Consuming 100% Orange Juice or Sucrose-Sweetened Beverage on Risk Factors for Cardiometabolic Disease in Women
Authors: Price Candice Allister , Medici Valentina , Nunez Marinelle V. , Lee Vivien , Sigala Desiree M. , Benyam Yanet , Keim Nancy L. , Mason Ashley E. , Chen Shin-Yu , Parenti Mariana , Slupsky Carolyn , Epel Elissa S. , Havel Peter J. , Stanhope Kimber L.
Published: February 2021

Overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages increases risk factors associated with cardiometabolic disease, in part due to hepatic fructose overload. However, it is not clear whether consumption of beverages containing fructose as naturally occurring sugar produces equivalent metabolic dysregulation as beverages containing added sugars. We compared the effects of consuming naturally-sweetened orange juice (OJ) or sucrose-sweetened beverages (sucrose-SB) for two weeks on risk factors for cardiometabolic disease. Healthy, overweight women (n = 20) were assigned to consume either 3 servings of 100% orange juice or sucrose-SB/day. We conducted 16-hour serial blood collections and 3-h oral glucose tolerance tests during a 30-h inpatient visit at baseline and after the 2-week diet intervention. The 16-h area under the curve (AUC) for uric acid increased in subjects consuming sucrose-SB compared with subjects consuming OJ. Unlike sucrose-SB, OJ did not significantly increase fasting or postprandial lipoproteins. Consumption of both beverages resulted in reductions in the Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (OJ: −0.40 ± 0.18, p = 0.04 within group; sucrose-SB: −1.0 ± 0.38, p = 0.006 within group; p = 0.53 between groups). Findings from this pilot study suggest that consumption of OJ at levels above the current dietary guidelines for sugar intake does not increase plasma uric acid concentrations compared with sucrose-SB, but appears to lead to comparable decreases of insulin sensitivity.
Event Rates for the Scattering of Weakly Interacting Massive Particles from 23Na and 40Ar
Authors: Sahu R. , Kota V. K. B. , Kosmas T. S.
Published: February 2021

Detection rates for the elastic and inelastic scattering of weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) off 23Na are calculated within the framework of Deformed Shell Model (DSM) based on Hartree-Fock states. At first, the spectroscopic properties of the detector nucleus, like energy spectra and magnetic moments, are evaluated and compared with experimental data. Following the good agreement of these results, DSM wave functions are used for obtaining elastic and inelastic spin structure functions, nuclear structure coefficients and so forth for the WIMP-23Na scattering. Then, the event rates are also computed with a given set of supersymmetric parameters. In the same manner, using DSM wavefunctions, nuclear structure coefficients and event rates for elastic scattering of WIMPs from 40Ar are also obtained. These results for event rates and also for annual modulation will be useful for the ongoing and future WIMP detection experiments involving detector materials with 23Na and 40Ar nuclei.
Synergistic Killing and Re-Sensitization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Antibiotics by Phage-Antibiotic Combination Treatment
Authors: Engeman Emily , Freyberger Helen R. , Corey Brendan W. , Ward Amanda M. , He Yunxiu , Nikolich Mikeljon P. , Filippov Andrey A. , Tyner Stuart D. , Jacobs Anna C.
Published: February 2021

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections pose a serious health threat. Bacteriophage–antibiotic combination therapy is a promising candidate for combating these infections. A 5-phage P. aeruginosa cocktail, PAM2H, was tested in combination with antibiotics (ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, meropenem) to determine if PAM2H enhances antibiotic activity. Combination treatment in vitro resulted in a significant increase in susceptibility of MDR strains to antibiotics. Treatment with ceftazidime (CAZ), meropenem, gentamicin, or ciprofloxacin in the presence of the phage increased the number of P. aeruginosa strains susceptible to these antibiotics by 63%, 56%, 31%, and 81%, respectively. Additionally, in a mouse dorsal wound model, seven of eight mice treated with a combination of CAZ and PAM2H for three days had no detectable bacteria remaining in their wounds on day 4, while all mice treated with CAZ or PAM2H alone had ~107 colony forming units (CFU) remaining in their wounds. P. aeruginosa recovered from mouse wounds post-treatment showed decreased virulence in a wax worm model, and DNA sequencing indicated that the combination treatment prevented mutations in genes encoding known phage receptors. Treatment with PAM2H in combination with antibiotics resulted in the re-sensitization of P. aeruginosa to antibiotics in vitro and a synergistic reduction in bacterial burden in vivo.