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Nutrients Jan 2022The gut microbiota is a key factor in the correct development of the gastrointestinal immune system. Studies have found differences between the gut microbiota of...
The gut microbiota is a key factor in the correct development of the gastrointestinal immune system. Studies have found differences between the gut microbiota of newborns delivered by cesarean section compared to those vaginally delivered. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of ingestion of probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics during pregnancy and/or lactation on the development of the gut microbiota of the C-section newborns. We selected experimental studies in online databases from their inception to October 2021. Of the 83 records screened, 12 met the inclusion criteria. The probiotics used belonged to the genera , , , and , or a combination of those, with dosages varying between 2 × 10 and 9 × 10 CFU per day, and were consumed during pregnancy and/or lactation. Probiotic strains were combined with galacto-oligosaccharides, fructo-oligosaccharides, or bovine milk-derived oligosaccharides in the synbiotic formulas. Probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic interventions led to beneficial gut microbiota in cesarean-delivered newborns, closer to that in vaginally delivered newborns, especially regarding colonization. This effect was more evident in breastfed infants. The studies indicate that this beneficial effect is achieved when the interventions begin soon after birth, especially the restoration of bifidobacterial population. Changes in the infant microbial ecosystem due to the interventions seem to continue after the end of the intervention in most of the studies. More interventional studies are needed to elucidate the optimal synbiotic combinations and the most effective strains and doses for achieving the optimal gut microbiota colonization of C-section newborns.
Topics: Bifidobacterium; Breast Feeding; Cesarean Section; Ecosystem; Female; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Lactation; Lactobacillus; Male; Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Prebiotics; Pregnancy; Prenatal Care; Probiotics; Synbiotics
PubMed: 35057522
DOI: 10.3390/nu14020341 -
Nutrients Aug 2020Beta-alanine supplementation (BA) has a positive impact on physical performance. However, evidence showing a benefit of this amino acid in aerobic-anaerobic transition... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Beta-alanine supplementation (BA) has a positive impact on physical performance. However, evidence showing a benefit of this amino acid in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones is scarce and the results controversial. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to analyze the effects of BA supplementation on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones. At the same time, the effect of different dosages and durations of BA supplementation were identified. The search was designed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and performed in Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and MEDLINE between 2010 and 2020. The methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The main variables were the Time Trial Test (TTT) and Time to Exhaustion (TTE) tests, the latter separated into the Limited Time Test (LTT) and Limited Distance Test (LDT). The analysis was carried out with a pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) through Hedges' g test (95% CI). Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, revealing a small effect for time in the TTT (SMD, -0.36; 95% CI, -0.87-0.16; I = 59%; = 0.010), a small effect for LTT (SMD, 0.25; 95% CI, -0.01-0.51; I = 0%; = 0.53), and a large effect for LDT (SMD, 4.27; 95% CI, -0.25-8.79; I = 94%; = 0.00001). BA supplementation showed small effects on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones. Evidence on acute supplementation is scarce (one study); therefore, exploration of acute supplementation with different dosages and formats on physical performance in aerobic-anaerobic transition zones is needed.
Topics: Aerobiosis; Anaerobiosis; Dietary Supplements; Humans; Physical Functional Performance; Sports Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; beta-Alanine
PubMed: 32824885
DOI: 10.3390/nu12092490 -
The British Journal of Radiology Oct 2021Data suggest that radiation-induced cataracts may form without a threshold and at low-radiation doses. Staff involved in interventional radiology and cardiology... (Review)
Review
Data suggest that radiation-induced cataracts may form without a threshold and at low-radiation doses. Staff involved in interventional radiology and cardiology fluoroscopy-guided procedures have the potential to be exposed to radiation levels that may lead to eye lens injury and the occurrence of opacifications have been reported. Estimates of lens dose for various fluoroscopy procedures and predicted annual dosages have been provided in numerous publications. Available tools for eye lens radiation protection include accessory shields, drapes and glasses. While some tools are valuable, others provide limited protection to the eye. Reducing patient radiation dose will also reduce occupational exposure. Significant variability in reported dose measurements indicate dose levels are highly dependent on individual actions and exposure reduction is possible. Further follow-up studies of staff lens opacification are recommended along with eye lens dose measurements under current clinical practice conditions.
Topics: Cataract; Eye Protective Devices; Humans; Lens, Crystalline; Occupational Exposure; Radiation Dosage; Radiation Injuries; Radiation Protection; Radiation, Ionizing; Radiology, Interventional
PubMed: 34545762
DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20210436 -
The Journal of Antimicrobial... Nov 2023The new definitions of antimicrobial susceptibility categories proposed by EUCAST in 2020 require the definition of standard and high dosages of antibiotic. For...
BACKGROUND
The new definitions of antimicrobial susceptibility categories proposed by EUCAST in 2020 require the definition of standard and high dosages of antibiotic. For injectable β-lactams, standard and high dosages have been proposed for short-infusion regimens only.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate dosages for β-lactams administered by prolonged infusion (PI) and continuous infusion (CI).
METHODS
Monte Carlo simulations were performed for seven injectable β-lactams: aztreonam, cefepime, cefotaxime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, piperacillin and temocillin. Various dosage regimens based on short infusion, PI or CI were simulated in virtual patients. Pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles and PTAs were obtained based on reference population PK models, as well as PK/pharmacodynamic targets and MIC breakpoints proposed by EUCAST. Alternative dosage regimens associated with PTA values similar to those of recommended dosages up to the breakpoints were considered acceptable.
RESULTS
Adequate PTAs were confirmed for most EUCAST short-infusion dosage regimens. A total of 9 standard and 14 high dosages based on PI (3 to 4 h) or CI were identified as alternatives. For cefepime and aztreonam, only PI and CI regimens could achieve acceptable PTAs for infections caused by Pseudomonas spp.: 2 g q8h as PI of 4 h or 6 g/24 h CI for cefepime; 2 g q6h as PI of 3 h or 6 g/24 h CI for aztreonam.
CONCLUSIONS
These alternative standard and high dosage regimens are expected to provide antibiotic exposure compatible with new EUCAST definitions of susceptibility categories and associated MIC breakpoints. However, further clinical evaluation is necessary.
Topics: Humans; Cefepime; Aztreonam; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Ceftazidime; Piperacillin; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Monte Carlo Method
PubMed: 37796958
DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkad300 -
Journal of the International Society of... Jan 2021Exercise induces free radicals' overproduction and therefore, an enhancement of oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between the production of reactive species and... (Review)
Review
Exercise induces free radicals' overproduction and therefore, an enhancement of oxidative stress, defined as an imbalance between the production of reactive species and the intrinsic antioxidant defense. Redox activity of reactive species plays an important and a positive role on exercise adaptation, but these species at very high concentrations have detrimental effects. As a result, the use of antioxidant supplements for reducing oxidative stress can be an effective health strategy to maintain an optimal antioxidant status. In this sense, grapes are an important source of natural antioxidants due to their high content in polyphenols. They have shown antioxidant potential benefits for the reduction of intense exercise effect in athletes of different sport disciplines. Consequently, it is plausible to hypothesize that a strategic supplementation with grape based products may be a good approach to mitigate the exercise induced oxidative stress. The goal of this review is to present the state of the art of supplementation effects with grape beverages and grape extracts on the oxidative stress markers in athletes. The data of polyphenolic dosages, participant characteristics and exercise protocols are reported.
Topics: Antioxidants; Athletes; Dietary Supplements; Exercise; Free Radicals; Fruit and Vegetable Juices; Humans; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Plant Extracts; Polyphenols; Vitis
PubMed: 33413451
DOI: 10.1186/s12970-020-00395-0 -
Cureus Feb 2024Aspirin is a recognized and affordable antiplatelet medicine. Low amounts of aspirin have been used to prevent cardiovascular events, and it is still widely used for... (Review)
Review
Aspirin is a recognized and affordable antiplatelet medicine. Low amounts of aspirin have been used to prevent cardiovascular events, and it is still widely used for primary and secondary stroke prevention. The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the effects of using low doses of aspirin among elderly people. Although taking large dosages of aspirin (500 mg daily) reduces the long-term risk of colorectal cancer, its effectiveness for long-term prevention may be limited by adverse effects. Studies have assessed the relationship between aspirin dosage, incidence, and death in patients with colorectal cancer. Research has indicated that those with diabetes mellitus have an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Low amounts of aspirin have been used to prevent cardiovascular events. However, there is uncertainty regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with preventing the development of cardiovascular problems in individuals with diabetes. The use of aspirin lowers the risk of occlusive vascular events but raises the possibility of bleeding. More attention should be paid to reducing inappropriate aspirin usage in light of its prevalence, particularly among older persons, as the substantial continuous usage of this drug increases the chances of bleeding.
PubMed: 38524052
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54658 -
European Archives of... Mar 2023To investigate the dosages of swallowing exercises reported in intervention studies on post-stroke dysphagia through systematic review. (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
To investigate the dosages of swallowing exercises reported in intervention studies on post-stroke dysphagia through systematic review.
METHODS
Five electronic databases were searched from inception until February 2022 with reference tracing of included studies. Studies were included, where adults with post-stroke dysphagia received rehabilitative, behavioural swallowing exercises, pre/post outcomes were reported, and intervention dosage was described in detail, including frequency, intensity, time, and type of exercise. Two reviewers independently screened studies and rated quality using ASHA Levels of Evidence tool. Data was tabulated and narratively described.
RESULTS
54 studies were included with a total 1501 participants. Studies included 28 randomised controlled trials, 8 non-randomised controlled trials, 12 pre/post studies, 3 retrospective case controls and 3 case studies. Results showed inconsistent reporting of intervention dosage, with intensity the least consistently reported dosage component. While swallowing intervention was most commonly provided five times per week for four weeks, there was a wide breadth of type, frequency, intensity and duration of swallowing exercises reported. Dosage under-reporting and variation was particularly observed in "standard care" co-interventions or control groups. Study strengths included following PRISMA guidelines, providing a comprehensive review of swallowing exercise methodology and dosages, and including non-English studies. The limitation was lack of meta-analysis due to the heterogeneity of included studies.
CONCLUSIONS
Dosages of swallowing exercises are inconsistently reported and vary significantly in post-stroke dysphagia studies. Results indicate the need for consistent and comprehensive dosage reporting in dysphagia studies, and for further research into evidence-based principles to optimise swallowing exercise dosages.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER
131294.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Deglutition Disorders; Deglutition; Stroke Rehabilitation; Retrospective Studies; Stroke
PubMed: 36471047
DOI: 10.1007/s00405-022-07735-7 -
Theranostics 2021Current cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are imprecise, non-specific, and are often administered at high dosages - resulting in side effects... (Review)
Review
Current cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are imprecise, non-specific, and are often administered at high dosages - resulting in side effects that severely impact the patient's overall well-being. A variety of multifunctional, cancer-targeted nanotheranostic systems that integrate therapy, imaging, and tumor targeting functionalities in a single platform have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of traditional drugs. Among the imaging modalities used, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides high resolution imaging of structures deep within the body and, in combination with other imaging modalities, provides complementary diagnostic information for more accurate identification of tumor characteristics and precise guidance of anti-cancer therapy. This review article presents a comprehensive assessment of nanotheranostic systems that combine MRI-based imaging (T1 MRI, T2 MRI, and multimodal imaging) with therapy (chemo-, thermal-, gene- and combination therapy), connecting a range of topics including hybrid treatment options ( combined chemo-gene therapy), unique MRI-based imaging ( combined T1-T2 imaging, triple and quadruple multimodal imaging), novel targeting strategies ( dual magnetic-active targeting and nanoparticles carrying multiple ligands), and tumor microenvironment-responsive drug release ( redox and pH-responsive nanomaterials). With a special focus on systems that have been tested , this review is an essential summary of the most advanced developments in this rapidly evolving field.
Topics: Animals; Drug Delivery Systems; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Molecular Targeted Therapy; Nanoparticles; Neoplasms; Theranostic Nanomedicine
PubMed: 33391494
DOI: 10.7150/thno.48811 -
Thrombosis Journal Sep 2023Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a widely used antifibrinolytic agent that has been used since the 1960's to reduce blood loss in various conditions. TXA is a lysine analogue... (Review)
Review
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a widely used antifibrinolytic agent that has been used since the 1960's to reduce blood loss in various conditions. TXA is a lysine analogue that competes for the lysine binding sites in plasminogen and tissue-type plasminogen activator impairing its interaction with the exposed lysine residues on the fibrin surface. The presence of TXA therefore, impairs the plasminogen and tPA engagement and subsequent plasmin generation on the fibrin surface, protecting fibrin clot from proteolytic degradation. However, critical lysine binding sites for plasmin(ogen) also exist on other proteins and on various cell-surface receptors allowing plasmin to exert potent effects on other targets that are unrelated to classical fibrinolysis, notably in relation to immunity and inflammation. Indeed, TXA was reported to significantly reduce post-surgical infection rates in patients after cardiac surgery unrelated to its haemostatic effects. This has provided an impetus to consider TXA in other indications beyond inhibition of fibrinolysis. While there is extensive literature on the optimal dosage of TXA to reduce bleeding rates and transfusion needs, it remains to be determined if these dosages also apply to blocking the non-canonical effects of plasmin.
PubMed: 37700271
DOI: 10.1186/s12959-023-00540-0