bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Marine as a Rich Source of Bioactive Peptides: Challenges and Opportunities from Marine Pharmacology
Authors: Ahmed Ishtiaq , Asgher Muhammad , Sher Farooq , Hussain Syed , Nazish Nadia , Joshi Navneet , Sharma Ashutosh , Parra-Saldívar Roberto , Bilal Muhammad , Iqbal Hafiz
Published: March 2022

This review highlights the underexplored potential and promises of marine bioactive peptides (MBPs) with unique structural, physicochemical, and biological activities to fight against the current and future human pathologies. A particular focus is given to the marine environment as a significant source to obtain or extract high-value MBPs from touched/untouched sources. For instance, marine microorganisms, including microalgae, bacteria, fungi, and marine polysaccharides, are considered prolific sources of amino acids at large, and peptides/polypeptides in particular, with fundamental structural sequence and functional entities of a carboxyl group, amine, hydrogen, and a variety of R groups. Thus, MBPs with tunable features, both structural and functional entities, along with bioactive traits of clinical and therapeutic value, are of ultimate interest to reinforce biomedical settings in the 21st century. On the other front, as the largest biome globally, the marine biome is the so-called “epitome of untouched or underexploited natural resources” and a considerable source with significant potentialities. Therefore, considering their biological and biomedical importance, researchers around the globe are redirecting and/or regaining their interests in valorizing the marine biome-based MBPs. This review focuses on the widespread bioactivities of MBPs, FDA-approved MBPs in the market, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and legislation to valorize marine biome to underlying the impact role of bioactive elements with the related pathways. Finally, a detailed overview of current challenges, conclusions, and future perspectives is also given to satisfy the stimulating demands of the pharmaceutical sector of the modern world.
Synthesis of Nanocomposite TiSiCN Coatings by Titanium Evaporation and Organosilicon Compound Activation in Hollow Cathode Arc Discharge
Authors: Menshakov Andrey , Bruhanova Yulia , Kukharenko Andrey , Zhidkov Ivan
Published: March 2022

TiSiCN coatings have been obtained by anode evaporation of titanium and the decomposition of hexamethyldisilazane in an arc discharge, using a self-heated hollow cathode, at the pressure rate of 1 mTorr of the Ar+N2 gas mixture. The proposed method makes it possible to independently and widely change the amount of metal and precursor vapor flows, the pressure and composition of the vapor-gas mixture and the degree of ionic interaction on the surface of the growing coating within a single discharge system. The paper presents the method and the results of the effect of a current discharge (10–50 A), and the flux of precursor vapours (0–1 g/h), on deposition rates, compositions, and properties of TiSiCN coatings deposited by an advanced combined PVD+PECVD method. Dense homogeneous TiSiCN coatings up to 6 µm thick and up to 27.5 GPa in hardness were obtained at 7.5 µm/h. The composition of the obtained coatings has been studied by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and it has been shown that the presented methods can form nanocomposite coatings with nanocrystallites TiC, TiN, and TiCxN1−x 3–10 nm in the amorphous matrix based on SiCN.
Multivalent Aptamer Approach: Designs, Strategies, and Applications
Authors: Wang Zhong , Yang Xiuying , Lee Nicholas Zhou , Cao Xudong
Published: March 2022

Aptamers are short and single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules with highly programmable structures that give them the ability to interact specifically with a large variety of targets, including proteins, cells, and small molecules. Multivalent aptamers refer to molecular constructs that combine two or more identical or different types of aptamers. Multivalency increases the avidity of aptamers, a particularly advantageous feature that allows for significantly increased binding affinities in comparison with aptamer monomers. Another advantage of multivalency is increased aptamer stabilities that confer improved performances under physiological conditions for various applications in clinical settings. The current study aims to review the most recent developments in multivalent aptamer research. The review will first discuss structures of multivalent aptamers. This is followed by detailed discussions on design strategies of multivalent aptamer approaches. Finally, recent developments of the multivalent aptamer approach in biosensing and biomedical applications are highlighted.
Assessment of Blood Biophysical Properties Using Pressure Sensing with Micropump and Microfluidic Comparator
Authors: Kang Yang Jun
Published: March 2022

To identify the biophysical properties of blood samples consistently, macroscopic pumps have been used to maintain constant flow rates in a microfluidic comparator. In this study, the bulk-sized and expensive pump is replaced with a cheap and portable micropump. A specific reference fluid (i.e., glycerin solution [40%]) with a small volume of red blood cell (RBC) (i.e., 1% volume fraction) as fluid tracers is supplied into the microfluidic comparator. An averaged velocity () obtained with micro-particle image velocimetry is converted into the flow rate of reference fluid (Qr) (i.e., Qr = CQ × Ac × , Ac: cross-sectional area, CQ = 1.156). Two control variables of the micropump (i.e., frequency: 400 Hz and volt: 150 au) are selected to guarantee a consistent flow rate (i.e., COV < 1%). Simultaneously, the blood sample is supplied into the microfluidic channel under specific flow patterns (i.e., constant, sinusoidal, and periodic on-off fashion). By monitoring the interface in the comparator as well as Qr, three biophysical properties (i.e., viscosity, junction pressure, and pressure-induced work) are obtained using analytical expressions derived with a discrete fluidic circuit model. According to the quantitative comparison results between the present method (i.e., micropump) and the previous method (i.e., syringe pump), the micropump provides consistent results when compared with the syringe pump. Thereafter, representative biophysical properties, including the RBC aggregation, are consistently obtained for specific blood samples prepared with dextran solutions ranging from 0 to 40 mg/mL. In conclusion, the present method could be considered as an effective method for quantifying the physical properties of blood samples, where the reference fluid is supplied with a cheap and portable micropump.
Reverse Genomics: Design of Universal Epitope Sets to Isolate All Saccharibacteria Members from the Human Oral Cavity
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmad , Maatouk Mohamad , Raoult Didier , Bittar Fadi
Published: March 2022

Microorganisms not yet cultured represent a large proportion of the microbes described to date. Progress in sequencing and metagenomic tools continues to increase microbial diversity without providing information on their physiological and pathophysiological characteristics, such as the recent discovery of enigmatic microbes belonging to Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR). Reverse genomics is a recent technique allowing co-cultivation of a few CPR members, affiliated to the Saccharibacteria phylum, based on the analysis of their already-available genomes. Here, our aim is to designate a common system capable of cultivating any given taxon of this phylum from human samples. We managed to design, in silico, 11 common epitopes for all Saccharibacteria species recovered from the human oral cavity and which can serve as antigens via bioinformatics analyses. These sequences allow the synthesis of target antibodies, sorting Saccharibacteria spp. by flow cytometry and co-culturing them afterwards with adapted hosts. This epitope set can facilitate the cultivation of CPR in general, which in recent years has been considered a challenge for microbiologists, and subsequently contributes to better studying this new branch on the tree of life.
Extended-Spectrum ß-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli in Conventional and Organic Pig Fattening Farms
Authors: Meissner Katharina , Sauter-Louis Carola , Heiden Stefan E. , Schaufler Katharina , Tomaso Herbert , Conraths Franz J. , Homeier-Bachmann Timo
Published: March 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing global problem and complicates successful treatments of bacterial infections in animals and humans. We conducted a longitudinal study in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to compare the occurrence of ESBL-producing Escherichia (E.) coli in three conventional and four organic pig farms. ESBL-positive E. coli, especially of the CTX-M type, were found in all fattening farms, confirming that antimicrobial resistance is widespread in pig fattening and affects both conventional and organic farms. The percentage of ESBL-positive pens was significantly higher on conventional (55.2%) than on organic farms (44.8%) with similar proportions of ESBL-positive pens on conventional farms (54.3–61.9%) and a wide variation (7.7–84.2%) on organic farms. Metadata suggest that the farms of origin, from which weaner pigs were purchased, had a major influence on the occurrence of ESBL-producing E. coli in the fattening farms. Resistance screening showed that the proportion of pens with multidrug-resistant E. coli was similar on conventional (28.6%) and organic (31.5%) farms. The study shows that ESBL-positive E. coli play a major role in pig production and that urgent action is needed to prevent their spread.
Novel Salmonella Phage, vB_Sen_STGO-35-1, Characterization and Evaluation in Chicken Meat
Authors: Rivera Dácil , Moreno-Switt Andrea I. , Denes Thomas G. , Hudson Lauren K. , Peters Tracey L. , Samir Reham , Aziz Ramy K. , Noben Jean-Paul , Wagemans Jeroen , Dueñas Fernando
Published: March 2022

Salmonellosis is one of the most frequently reported zoonotic foodborne diseases worldwide, and poultry is the most important reservoir of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis. The use of lytic bacteriophages (phages) to reduce foodborne pathogens has emerged as a promising biocontrol intervention for Salmonella spp. Here, we describe and evaluate the newly isolated Salmonella phage STGO-35-1, including: (i) genomic and phenotypic characterization, (ii) an analysis of the reduction of Salmonella in chicken meat, and (iii) genome plasticity testing. Phage STGO-35-1 represents an unclassified siphovirus, with a length of 47,483 bp, a G + C content of 46.5%, a headful strategy of packaging, and a virulent lifestyle. Phage STGO-35-1 reduced S. Enteritidis counts in chicken meat by 2.5 orders of magnitude at 4 °C. We identified two receptor-binding proteins with affinity to LPS, and their encoding genes showed plasticity during an exposure assay. Phenotypic, proteomic, and genomic characteristics of STGO-35-1, as well as the Salmonella reduction in chicken meat, support the potential use of STGO-35-1 as a targeted biocontrol agent against S. Enteritidis in chicken meat. Additionally, computational analysis and a short exposure time assay allowed us to predict the plasticity of genes encoding putative receptor-binding proteins.
Multidisciplinary Management of Suspected Lyme Borreliosis: Clinical Features of 569 Patients, and Factors Associated with Recovery at 3 and 12 Months, a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Raffetin Alice , Schemoul Julien , Chahour Amal , Nguala Steve , Caraux-Paz Pauline , Paoletti Giulia , Belkacem Anna , Medina Fernanda , Fabre Catherine , Gallien Sébastien , Vignier Nicolas , Madec Yoann ,   on the behalf of the Tick-Borne Diseases Reference Center-Paris and Northern Region Working Group
Published: March 2022

Introduction. Because patients with a suspicion of Lyme borreliosis (LB) may have experienced difficult care paths, the Tick-Borne Diseases Reference Center (TBD-RC) was started in 2017. The aim of our study was to compare the clinical features of patients according to their final diagnoses, and to determine the factors associated with recovery in the context of multidisciplinary management for suspected LB. Methods. We included all adult patients who were seen at the TBD-RC (2017–2020). Four groups were defined: (i) confirmed LB, (ii) possible LB, (iii) Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) or sequelae, and (iv) other diagnoses. Their clinical evolution at 3, 6, and 9–12 months after care was compared. Factors associated with recovery at 3 and at 9–12 months were identified using logistic regression models. Results. Among the 569 patients who consulted, 72 (12.6%) had confirmed LB, 43 (7.6%) possible LB, 58 (10.2%) PTLDS/sequelae, and 396 (69.2%) another diagnosis. A favorable evolution was observed in 389/569 (68.4%) at three months and in 459/569 (80.7%) at 12 months, independent of the final diagnosis. A longer delay between the first symptoms and the first consultation at the TBD-RC (p = 0.001), the multiplicity of the diagnoses (p = 0.004), and the inappropriate prescription of long-term antibiotic therapy (p = 0.023) were negatively associated with recovery, reflecting serial misdiagnoses. Conclusions. A multidisciplinary team dedicated to suspicion of LB may achieve a more precise diagnosis and better patient-centered medical support in the adapted clinical sector with a shorter delay, enabling clinical improvement and avoiding inappropriate antimicrobial prescription.
Diversity of Phosphate Chemical Forms in Soils and Their Contributions on Soil Microbial Community Structure Changes
Authors: Ducousso-Détrez Amandine , Fontaine Joël , Lounès-Hadj Sahraoui Anissa , Hijri Mohamed
Published: March 2022

In many soils, the bioavailability of Phosphorus (P), an essential macronutrient is a limiting factor for crop production. Among the mechanisms developed to facilitate the absorption of phosphorus, the plant, as a holobiont, can rely on its rhizospheric microbial partners. Therefore, microbial P-solubilizing inoculants are proposed to improve soil P fertility in agriculture. However, a better understanding of the interactions of the soil-plant-microorganism continuum with the phosphorus cycle is needed to propose efficient inoculants. Before proposing further methods of research, we carried out a critical review of the literature in two parts. First, we focused on the diversity of P-chemical forms. After a review of P forms in soils, we describe multiple factors that shape these forms in soil and their turnover. Second, we provide an analysis of P as a driver of microbial community diversity in soil. Even if no rule enabling to explain the changes in the composition of microbial communities according to phosphorus has been shown, this element has been perfectly targeted as linked to the presence/absence and/or abundance of particular bacterial taxa. In conclusion, we point out the need to link soil phosphorus chemistry with soil microbiology in order to understand the variations in the composition of microbial communities as a function of P bioavailability. This knowledge will make it possible to propose advanced microbial-based inoculant engineering for the improvement of bioavailable P for plants in sustainable agriculture.
Archaeometric Study on Roman Painted Terracottas from the Sanctuary of Hercules in Alba Fucens (Abruzzo, Italy)
Authors: Russo Gilda , Ceccaroni Emanuela , Conte Aida Maria , Medeghini Laura , De Vito Caterina , Mignardi Silvano
Published: March 2022

In a period spanning from the 7th to the 1st century BC, the exterior surfaces of civil and sacred buildings in Italy were mainly decorated with terracottas. The aim of this study is to determine the skills and technological level reached by ancient manufacturers of painted ceramics from the sanctuary of Hercules in the archaeological site of Alba Fucens (Abruzzo, Central Italy). A multi-analytical approach including X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), µ-Raman and portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) was applied to determine the mineralogical composition of terracotta samples and to identify the pigments decorating the ceramics. The studied terracottas were decorated using valuable pigments such as Egyptian blue as well as a palette of colors common in the Roman period from the 3rd to the 1st century BC. The mineralogical composition of the ceramics allows estimating a firing temperature lower than 800 °C. Finally, a local origin of raw materials is suggested by the presence of alluvial and lake deposits outcropping in the Fucino area.
Plumbagin Alleviates Intracerebroventricular-Quinolinic Acid Induced Depression-like Behavior and Memory Deficits in Wistar Rats
Authors: Kumar Arora Mandeep , Ratra Anish , Asdaq Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin , Alshamrani Ali A. , Alsalman Abdulkhaliq J. , Kamal Mehnaz , Tomar Ritu , Sahoo Jagannath , Ashok Jangra , Imran Mohd
Published: March 2022

Plumbagin, a hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, confers neuroprotection via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to assess the effect of plumbagin on behavioral and memory deficits induced by intrahippocampal administration of Quinolinic acid (QA) in male Wistar rats and reveal the associated mechanisms. QA (300 nM/4 μL in Normal saline) was administered i.c.v. in the hippocampus. QA administration caused depression-like behavior (forced swim test and tail suspension tests), anxiety-like behavior (open field test and elevated plus maze), and elevated anhedonia behavior (sucrose preference test). Furthermore, oxidative–nitrosative stress (increased nitrite content and lipid peroxidation with reduction of GSH), inflammation (increased IL-1β), cholinergic dysfunction, and mitochondrial complex (I, II, and IV) dysfunction were observed in the hippocampus region of QA-treated rats as compared to normal controls. Plumbagin (10 and 20 mg/kg; p.o.) treatment for 21 days significantly ameliorated behavioral and memory deficits in QA-administered rats. Moreover, plumbagin treatment restored the GSH level and reduced the MDA and nitrite level in the hippocampus. Furthermore, QA-induced cholinergic dysfunction and mitochondrial impairment were found to be ameliorated by plumbagin treatment. In conclusion, our results suggested that plumbagin offers a neuroprotective potential that could serve as a promising pharmacological approach to mitigate neurobehavioral changes associated with neurodegeneration.
The Purinergic Landscape of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Garcia-Jacobo Rocio Edith , Bergamin Leticia Scussel , Vultaggio-Poma Valentina , Thorstenberg Maria Luiza , Tarantini Mario , García-Hernández Mariana Haydee , Di Virgilio Francesco
Published: March 2022

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the key energy intermediate of cellular metabolic processes and a ubiquitous extracellular messenger. As an extracellular messenger, ATP acts at plasma membrane P2 receptors (P2Rs). The levels of extracellular ATP (eATP) are set by both passive and active release mechanisms and degradation processes. Under physiological conditions, eATP concentration is in the low nanomolar range but can rise to tens or even hundreds of micromoles/L at inflammatory sites. A dysregulated eATP homeostasis is a pathogenic factor in several chronic inflammatory diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and impairment of insulin production from pancreatic β-cells in a landscape of systemic inflammation. Although various hypoglycemic drugs are currently available, an effective treatment for T2DM and its complications is not available. However, counteracting systemic inflammation is anticipated to be beneficial. The postulated eATP increase in T2DM is understood to be a driver of inflammation via P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) activation and the release of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, P2X7R stimulation is thought to trigger apoptosis of pancreatic β-cells, thus further aggravating hyperglycemia. Targeting eATP and the P2X7R might be an appealing novel approach to T2DM therapy.
Encapsulation of Orange Oil Using Fluidized Bed Granulation
Authors: Reineccius Gary , Patil Shardul , Anantharamkrishnan Vaidhyanathan
Published: March 2022

The primary objective of this research is to determine how granulation compares to spray drying/agglomeration for producing larger, more dense flavoring particles. Granulation can yield large, dense particles and thereby negate the need for a two-step process (spray drying followed by agglomeration) to achieve improved flow/handling properties of dry flavorings. In this study, a 55% solids slurry (blend of OSAn-modified starch and maltodextrin 15DE) was prepared and then single-fold orange peel oil was added at 20 or 25% of the carrier solids level. The 20% flavoring emulsion was spray dried (SD), and a portion of the resultant powder then agglomerated (Agg) in a bottom spray, fluidized bed. A second emulsion of the same carrier composition but using 25% orange oil based on carrier solids was prepared and subjected to fluidized bed granulation (FBG). Particle size, density, orange oil retention and oxidative stability on storage were determined. Overall, it is observed during this study that FBG produces orange oil encapsulates that possess better properties, such as more resistance to oxidation, a better retention of orange oil and a higher density than SD or SD/Agg powders.
Isolation and Identification of Pennogenin Tetraglycoside from Cestrum nocturnum (Solanaceae) and Its Antifungal Activity against Fusarium kuroshium, Causal Agent of Fusarium Dieback
Authors: Valencia-Mejía Erika , León-Wilchez Yeli Y. , Monribot-Villanueva Juan L. , Ramírez-Vázquez Mónica , Bonilla-Landa Israel , Guerrero-Analco José A.
Published: March 2022

Antifungal assay-guided fractionation of the methanolic crude extract of Cestrum nocturnum (Solanaceae), popular known as ‘lady of the night’, led the isolation and identification of the steroidal saponin named pennogenin tetraglycoside, which was identified for the first time in this plant species by spectroscopic means. The crude extract, fractions and pennogenin tetraglycoside exhibited mycelial growth inhibition of Fusarium solani and F. kuroshium. F. solani is a cosmopolitan fungal phytopathogen that affects several economically important crops. However, we highlight the antifungal activity displayed by pennogenin tetraglycoside against F. kuroshium, since it is the first plant natural product identified as active for this phytopathogen. This fungus along with its insect symbiont known as Kuroshio shot hole borer (Euwallacea kuroshio) are the causal agents of the plant disease Fusarium dieback that affects more than 300 plant species including avocado (Persea americana) among others of ecological relevance. Scanning electron microscopy showed morphological alterations of the fungal hyphae after exposure with the active fractions and 12 phenolic compounds were also identified by mass spectrometry dereplication as part of potential active molecules present in C. nocturnum leaves.
Impact of Hydrothermal Treatments on Nutritional Value and Mineral Bioaccessibility of Brussels Sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera)
Authors: Doniec Joanna , Florkiewicz Adam , Duliński Robert , Filipiak-Florkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: March 2022

Hydrothermal treatment of Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) induces both physical and chemical changes in nutrients and non-nutrients. It also affects the bioaccessibility of individual compounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of hydrothermal treatment (boiling, steaming, and sous vide technique) on the concentration of the selected nutrients and non-nutrients in Brussels sprouts and in vitro bioaccessibility of the mineral components. It has been shown that, in terms of the leaching of nutrients and non-nutrients into the aqueous medium, traditional cooking in water involves the greatest percentage loss (the highest decrease in dry matter (11.8%), ash (13.3%), protein (10.4%), crude fat (43.3%), dietary fiber (9.5%), digestible carbohydrates (12.2%), and most of mineral components (7.6–39.8%)). In contrast, steam cooking and sous vide cooking of Brussels sprouts allow a higher level of preservation of the individual compounds. By using reduced process temperatures and vacuum packaging, sous vide cooking can be an alternative to traditional cooking to preserve the higher nutritional value of Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera (preservation of dry matter, ash, crude fat, and most of the mineral components at the level of the raw sample p ≤ 0.05).
New C15 Acetogenins from Two Species of Laurencia from the Aegean Sea
Authors: Harizani Maria , Diakaki Dafni-Ioanna , Perdikaris Stamatios , Roussis Vassilios , Ioannou Efstathia
Published: March 2022

The chemical diversity of the approximately 1,200 natural products isolated from red algae of the genus Laurencia, in combination with the wide range of their biological activities, have placed species of Laurencia in the spotlight of marine chemists’ attention for over 60 years. The chemical investigation of the organic (CH2Cl2/MeOH) extracts of Laurencia microcladia and Laurencia obtusa, both collected off the coasts of Tinos island in the Aegean Sea, resulted in the isolation of 32 secondary metabolites, including 23 C15 acetogenins (1–23), 7 sesquiterpenes (24–30) and 2 diterpenes (31 and 32). Among them, six new C15 acetogenins, namely 10-acetyl-sagonenyne (2), cis-sagonenyne (3), trans-thuwalenyne C (4), tinosallene A (11), tinosallene B (12) and obtusallene XI (17), were identified and their structures were elucidated by extensive analysis of their spectroscopic data. Compounds 1–3, 5–11, 13 and 15–32 were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
An Energy Harvester Coupled with a Triboelectric Mechanism and Electrostatic Mechanism for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhai Lei , Gao Lingxiao , Wang Ziying , Dai Kejie , Wu Shuai , Mu Xiaojing
Published: March 2022

Energy-harvesting devices based on a single energy conversion mechanism generally have a low output and low conversion efficiency. To solve this problem, an energy harvester coupled with a triboelectric mechanism and electrostatic mechanism for biomechanical energy harvesting is presented. The output performances of the device coupled with a triboelectric mechanism and electrostatic mechanism were systematically studied through principle analysis, simulation, and experimental demonstration. Experiments showed that the output performance of the device was greatly improved by coupling the electrostatic induction mechanisms, and a sustainable and enhanced peak power of approximately 289 μW was produced when the external impedance was 100 MΩ, which gave over a 46-fold enhancement to the conventional single triboelectric conversion mechanism. Moreover, it showed higher resolution for motion states compared with the conventional triboelectric nanogenerator, and can precisely and constantly monitor and distinguish various motion states, including stepping, walking, running, and jumping. Furthermore, it can charge a capacitor of 10 μF to 3 V within 2 min and light up 16 LEDs. On this basis, a self-powered access control system, based on gait recognition, was successfully demonstrated. This work proposes a novel and cost-effective method for biomechanical energy harvesting, which provides a more convenient choice for human motion status monitoring and can be widely used in personnel identification systems.
Unidirectional Magnetic Anisotropy in Molybdenum Dioxide–Hematite Mixed-Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Tolea Felicia , Sorescu Monica , Diamandescu Lucian , Iacob Nicusor , Tolea Mugurel , Kuncser Victor
Published: March 2022

MoO2-Fe2O3 nanoparticle systems were successfully synthesized by mechanochemical activation of MoO2 and α-Fe2O3 equimolar mixtures throughout 0–12 h of ball-milling. The role of the long-range ferromagnetism of MoO2 on a fraction of more defect hematite nanoparticles supporting a defect antiferromagnetic phase down to the lowest temperatures was investigated in this work. The structure and the size evolution of the nanoparticles were investigated by X-ray diffraction, whereas the magnetic properties were investigated by SQUID magnetometry. The local electronic structure and the specific phase evolution in the analyzed system versus the milling time were investigated by temperature-dependent Mössbauer spectroscopy. The substantially shifted magnetic hysteresis loops were interpreted in terms of the unidirectional anisotropy induced by pinning the long-range ferromagnetic order of the local net magnetic moments in the defect antiferromagnetic phase, as mediated by the diluted magnetic oxide phase of MoO2, to those less defect hematite nanoparticles supporting Morin transition. The specific evolutions of the exchange bias and of the coercive field versus temperature in the samples were interpreted in the frame of the specific phase evolution pointed out by Mössbauer spectroscopy. Depending on the milling time, a different fraction of defect hematite nanoparticles is formed. Less nanoparticles supporting the Morin transition are formed for samples exposed to a longer milling time, with a direct influence on the induced unidirectional anisotropy and related effects.
Influence of Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles on Bond-Slip Reponses between Fiber and Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Intarabut Darrakorn , Sukontasukkul Piti , Phoo-ngernkham Tanakorn , Zhang Hexin , Yoo Doo-Yeol , Limkatanyu Suchart , Chindaprasirt Prinya
Published: March 2022

In this study, the influence of graphene oxide nanoparticles on the bond-slip behavior of fiber and fly-ash-based geopolymer paste was examined. Geopolymer paste incorporating a graphene oxide nanoparticle solution was cast in half briquetted specimens and embedded with a fiber. Three types of fiber were used: steel, polypropylene, and basalt. The pullout test was performed at two distinct speeds: 1 mm/s and 3 mm/s. The results showed that the addition of graphene oxide increased the compressive strength of the geopolymer by about 7%. The bond-slip responses of fibers embedded in the geopolymer mixed with graphene oxide exhibited higher peak stress and toughness compared to those embedded in a normal geopolymer. Each fiber type also showed a different mode of failure. Both steel and polypropylene fibers showed full bond-slip responses due to their high ductility. Basalt fiber, on the other hand, because of its brittleness, failed by fiber fracture mode and showed no slip in pullout responses. Both bond strength and toughness were found to be rate-sensitive. The sensitivity was higher in the graphene oxide/geopolymer than in the conventional geopolymer.
Lactobacilli Infection Case Reports in the Last Three Years and Safety Implications
Authors: Rossi Franca , Amadoro Carmela , Gasperi Maurizio , Colavita Giampaolo
Published: March 2022

Lactobacilli constitute the dominant microbiota in many fermented foods and comprise widely used probiotics. However, these bacteria cause rare infections mostly in diabetic and immunocompromised subjects in presence of risk factors such as prosthetic hearth valves and dental procedures or caries. The scope of this survey was re-assessing the pathogenic potential of lactobacilli based on the infection case reports published in the last three years. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, total of 17, 15, and 16 cases, respectively, including endocarditis, bacteremia, and other infections, were reported. These annual numbers are higher than those observed previously. Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (13 cases), comprising strain GG (ATCC 53103) with established applications in healthcare, L. paracasei (7 cases), Lactobacillus acidophilus (5 cases), L. jensenii (5 cases), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (3 cases), L. paraplantarum, L. delbrueckii subsp. delbrueckii, L. gasseri, L. paragasseri, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, and L. reuteri (1 case each) were involved. Virulence characterization of two strains that caused infections, a derivative of L. rhamnosus GG and L. paracasei LP10266, indicated that increased biofilm-forming capacity favors pathogenicity and it is determined by variable genetic traits. This survey highlights that the strains of lactobacilli that cause infections are little characterized genetically. Instead, to avoid that these bacteria become a hazard, genetic stability should be periodically re-evaluated by whole genome sequencing (WGS) to ensure that only non-pathogenic variants are administered to vulnerable individuals.
Comparison between Egg Intake versus Choline Supplementation on Gut Microbiota and Plasma Carotenoids in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Thomas Minu S. , DiBella Marissa , Blesso Christopher N. , Malysheva Olga , Caudill Marie , Sholola Maria , Cooperstone Jessica L. , Fernandez Maria Luz
Published: March 2022

We previously demonstrated that intake of three eggs/d for 4 weeks increased plasma choline and decreased inflammation in subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS). The purpose of the current study was to further explore the effects of phosphatidylcholine (PC) provided by eggs versus a choline bitartrate (CB) supplement on the gut microbiota, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) formation, and plasma carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin in MetS. This randomized, controlled crossover clinical trial included 23 subjects with MetS. Following a washout period of 2 weeks without consuming any choline-containing foods, subjects were randomly allocated to consume either three eggs/d or a CB supplement for 4 weeks (both diets had a choline equivalent of 400 mg/day). DNA was extracted from stool samples to sequence the 16S rRNA gene region for community analysis. Operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and the α-diversity of the community were determined using QIIME software. Plasma TMAO, methionine, betaine, and dimethylglycine (DMG) were quantified by stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma carotenoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin were measured using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. There were significant increases in plasma lutein and zeaxanthin after egg intake compared to the baseline or intake of CB supplement (p < 0.01). In contrast, TMAO was not different between treatments compared to the baseline (p > 0.05). Additionally, while diet intervention had no effects on microbiota diversity measures or relative taxa abundances, a correlation between bacterial biodiversity and HDL was observed. Following egg intake, the observed increases in plasma lutein and zeaxanthin may suggest additional protection against oxidative stress, a common condition in MetS.
Embracing the Nutritional Assessment in Cerebral Palsy: A Toolkit for Healthcare Professionals for Daily Practice
Authors: Pinto Carolina , Borrego Rute , Eiró-Gomes Mafalda , Casimiro Inês , Raposo Ana , Folha Teresa , Virella Daniel , Moreira Ana Catarina
Published: March 2022

Background: Nutritional status assessment (NSA) can be challenging in children with cerebral palsy (CP). There are high omission rates in national surveillance reports of weight and height information. Alternative methods are used to assess nutritional status that may be unknown to the healthcare professionals (HCP) who report these children. Caregivers experience challenges when dealing with feeding problems (FP) common in CP. Our aim was to assess the difficulties in NSA which are causing this underreport and to create solutions for registers and caregivers. Methods: An online questionnaire was created for registers. Three meetings with HCP and caregivers were held to discuss problems and solutions regarding NSA and intervention. Results: HCP mentioned difficulty in NSA due to a lack of time, collaboration with others, equipment, and childrens’ motor impairment. Caregivers experienced difficulty in preparing nutritious meals with adapted textures. The creation of educational tools and other strategies were suggested. A toolkit for HCP was created with the weight and height assessment methods described and other for caregivers to deal with common FP. Conclusions: There are several difficulties experienced by HCP that might be overcome with educational tools, such as a toolkit. This will facilitate nutritional assessment and intervention and hopefully reduce underreporting.
Low Adherence to the EAT-Lancet Sustainable Reference Diet in the Brazilian Population: Findings from the National Dietary Survey 2017–2018
Authors: Marchioni Dirce Maria , Cacau Leandro Teixeira , De Carli Eduardo , Carvalho Aline Martins de , Rulli Maria Cristina
Published: March 2022

Diets are simultaneously connected with population health and environment. The EAT-Lancet Commission proposed a sustainable reference diet to improve population health and respect the planetary boundaries. Recently, the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) has been developed to assess the adherence to this reference diet. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the adherence to the EAT-Lancet diet through the PHDI in a nationwide population-based study carried out in Brazil. We used data from the National Dietary Survey conducted through the Household Budget Survey in 2017–2018, with 46,164 Brazilians aged over 10 years old. Food consumption was evaluated with a 24 h dietary recall. The average PHDI total score in the Brazilian population was 45.9 points (95% CI 45.6:46.1) on a total score that can range from 0 to 150 points. The adherence to EAT-Lancet diet was low among all Brazilian regions. Women, elderly, those overweighed/obese, with higher per capita income and living in the urban area had higher scores in the PHDI. In general, the Brazilian population presented low adherence to a healthy and sustainable dietary pattern and seems far from meeting the EAT-Lancet recommendations.
Curcumin-Rich Curry Consumption and Neurocognitive Function from 4.5-Year Follow-Up of Community-Dwelling Older Adults (Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study)
Authors: Ng Tze Pin , Nyunt Ma Shwe Zin , Gao Qi , Gwee Xinyi , Chua Denise Qian Ling , Yap Keng Bee
Published: March 2022

The potential neurocognition protective effects of dietary curcumin in curry consumed with food was investigated in this study of 2734 community-dwelling adults (aged ≥ 55, mean ± SD: 65.9 ± 7.4). We analyzed longitudinal data of baseline curry consumption (“never or rarely”, “occasionally”: once a month and once a week or daily) and baseline and 4.5-year follow-up cognitive function in mixed model analyses controlling for confounding risk factors. Significant between-exposure differences were found for Digit Span-Backward (DS-B), Verbal Fluency-Animals (VF-A) and Block Design (BD). Compared to “never or rarely” consumption, “very often” and “often” consumptions were associated with higher DS-B performance; “very often”—with higher VF-A, and “occasional”, “often” and “very often” consumptions—with higher BD: Cohen’s d: from 0.130 to 0.186. Among participants with cardiometabolic and cardiac diseases (CMVD), curry consumption was associated with significantly higher DS-B and VF-A. Among CMVD-free participants, curry consumption was associated with significantly higher DS-B, VF-A and BD: Cohen’s d: from 0.098 to 0.305. The consumption of dietary curcumin was associated with the maintenance over time of higher functioning on attention, short-term working memory, visual spatial constructional ability, language and executive function among community-dwelling older Asian adults.
Guava Fruit and Acacia pennata Vegetable Intake Association with Frailty of Older Adults in Northern Thailand
Authors: Ruangsuriya Jetsada , Wongpoomchai Rawiwan , Srichairatanakool Somdet , Sirikul Wachiranun , Buawangpong Nida , Siviroj Penprapa
Published: March 2022

As Thailand moves toward an aging society, frailty has become a concern amongst northern Thai elderly. The causes of frailty are multifactorial and include genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors; diet is of particular interest. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2017 to investigate what kind of diets normally consumed by 350 Thai elders were associated with frailty using a questionnaire and frailty determination by Fried’s phenotype followed by phytochemical analyses of the diets. The multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant positive association between certain foods and lower frailty. Guava fruit and Acacia pennata vegetable consumption had lower odds of frailty, which were 0.52 times (95% CI 0.28–0.96, p = 0.037) and 0.42 times (95% CI 0.21–0.83, p = 0.012) when adjusted for the potential confounders. The phytochemical analyses of guava fruit showed a significantly higher amount of total flavonoids (p < 0.001), total phenolic compounds (p = 0.002), and antioxidant capacity, including DPPH (p < 0.001), ABTS (p < 0.001), and FRAP (p = 0.002) when compared to those of banana. Acacia pennata vegetable contained a significantly higher amount of total phenolic compounds (p = 0.012) when compared to those of lettuce. These findings may assist in health promotion programs of frailty prevention by encouraging an increase in consumption of either guava fruit or Acacia pennata vegetable among Thai elderly.
Today’s Mediterranean Diet in Greece: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Survey—HYDRIA (2013–2014)
Authors: Martimianaki Georgia , Peppa Eleni , Valanou Elisavet , Papatesta Eleni M. , Klinaki Eleni , Trichopoulou Antonia
Published: March 2022

Background: This study aimed to investigate the food and macronutrient intake of the population in Greece and evaluate its adherence to the Greek traditional Mediterranean diet. Methods: Adults over 18 years old (n = 4011) were included from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition survey—HYDRIA. Dietary intake was collected using two 24-h recall interviews and a nonquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Macronutrient intakes were calculated using an updated version of the Greek FCT. Results: Only 28.3% of the adult population had high adherence to the Greek traditional Mediterranean diet, with a higher percentage (39.7%) observed for participants over 65 years compared to those under 65 years (25.5%). Differences in adherence to the MD were observed among the four geographical regions in Greece. Younger adults had a higher intake of meat, cereals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and sugar products than older individuals who consumed more vegetables, fruits, legumes, dairy, fish, and lipids (mainly from olive oil). Adults do not meet the international dietary recommendations for the intake of several foods and macronutrients. Conclusions: The adult Greek population, especially younger people, has headed away from the Greek traditional Mediterranean diet. These observations indicate potential detrimental consequences in terms of morbidity and mortality.
Biomarker Changes in Response to a 12-Week Supplementation of an Oral Nutritional Supplement Enriched with Protein, Vitamin D and HMB in Malnourished Community Dwelling Older Adults with Sarcopenia
Authors: Pereira Suzette L. , Shoemaker Marni E. , Gawel Susan , Davis Gerard J. , Luo Menghua , Mustad Vikkie A. , Cramer Joel T.
Published: March 2022

Malnutrition and sarcopenia commonly overlap and contribute to adverse health outcomes. Previously, chronic supplementation with two oral nutritional supplements (ONS), control (CONS) and experimental ONS enriched with protein, vitamin D and β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) (EONS), improved muscle strength and quality in malnourished sarcopenic older adults, with EONS demonstrating early strength benefits at 12 weeks. To understand the underlying biological mechanisms contributing to the observed early strength benefits of EONS, we examined serum biomarker changes in response to 12-week supplementation. Serum samples (EONS (n = 90) and CONS (n = 103)) collected at baseline and 12 weeks were analyzed. Biomarkers (n = 243) were measured using multiplexed immunoassay, commercial immunoassays and ELISAs. Sixty markers were excluded with levels below assay detection limits. Sixteen biomarkers significantly changed in response to both interventions including nutritional and metabolic markers. Thirteen biomarkers significantly changed in response to EONS but not CONS. Increases in immunoglobulins, myoglobin, total protein, vitamin E and magnesium were observed with EONS. Inflammation-related ferritin and osteopontin decreased, while soluble receptors for cytokines increased, suggesting decreased inflammation. Sex hormone-binding globulin associated with sarcopenia also decreased with EONS. Biomarkers reflective of multiple biological systems were impacted by nutritional intervention in sarcopenic older adults. Incremental biomarker changes were observed in response to EONS containing HMB that possibly link to improvements in skeletal muscle health.
Managing Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy with an Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula: Results from a Prospective, Non-Interventional Study in France (EVA Study)
Authors: Lemale Julie , Decline Jean-Luc , Dive-Pouletty Catherine , Touboul Chantal , Pichon Nadège , Dupont Christophe
Published: March 2022

Symptoms related cow’s milk proteins allergy (CMPA) usually improve between two to four weeks following an elimination diet, firstly with extensively hydrolyzed formulas (eHF). The aim of the EVA study was to observe the evolution of CMPA-related symptoms in real life after initiation of a whey-based extensively hydrolyzed formula (w-eHF, Althéra®, Nestlé Health Science, Switzerland). This cross-sectional prospective non-interventional study was carried out alongside paediatricians in private practice in France between June 2019 and June 2020. Infants aged 0–3 years presenting with confirmed diagnosis or clinical symptoms suggesting CMPA were enrolled. Data were collected at enrolment (baseline visit) and three to five weeks later (follow-up visit). Symptoms were assessed using the Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS®). The per protocol population included 135 infants. The average number of symptoms per infant significantly decreased under the study formula (from 2.81 to 1.36, p < 0.001) and the proportions of infants with any CMPA related symptoms decreased. Daily crying and regurgitation showed the largest decline, respectively −44.4% and −31.85% (p < 0.001). These results describe the early management of symptoms suspected to be related to CMPA in routine practice that was rarely described in the literature. The number and severity of symptoms decreased most of the cases after commencing the study formula.