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Amino Acids Dec 2023Bioactive peptides consist of small protein fragments, which are inactive in their original conformation, and they become active when released from these through... (Review)
Review
Bioactive peptides consist of small protein fragments, which are inactive in their original conformation, and they become active when released from these through enzymatic hydrolysis or fermentation processes. The bioactivity of such peptides has been extensively reported in the literature as contributors to organic homeostasis processes, as well as in immunomodulation, organism defense against oxidative processes, among others. In this study, reports of the activity of BPs isolated from milk with the potential glycemic control, antihypertensive activity, and inhibitors of uric acid formation were compiled. A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis were conducted, using the PICO strategy for the research. The temporal analysis of publications revealed a growing interest in the investigation of bioactive peptides with potential antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activities, using dairy sources as products for their extraction. The literature analysis also revealed an increase in research involving non-bovine dairy products for bioactive peptide extraction. The collaboration network among authors exhibited weaknesses in scientific cooperation. Regarding the analysis of keywords, the usage of terms such as "bioactive peptides", "antioxidant", "antihypertensive", and "diabetes" was evident, constituting the main research clusters. Peptides with low molecular weight, typically < 10 kDa, of hydrophobic nature with aliphatic and aromatic chains, have significant implications in molecular interactions for the required activities. Although there is a growing interest in the industry regarding the utilization of bioactive peptides as potential drugs, there is a need to address gaps related to elucidating their interactions with cellular targets and their use in human therapy.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Antihypertensive Agents; Milk; Xanthine Oxidase; Hypoglycemic Agents; Peptides; Enzyme Inhibitors
PubMed: 37938416
DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03351-9 -
Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science... Nov 2023Liubao tea (LBT) is a unique microbial-fermented tea that boasts a long consumption history spanning 1500 years. Through a specific post-fermentation process, LBT...
Liubao tea (LBT) is a unique microbial-fermented tea that boasts a long consumption history spanning 1500 years. Through a specific post-fermentation process, LBT crafted from local tea cultivars in Liubao town Guangxi acquires four distinct traits, namely, vibrant redness, thickness, aging aroma, and purity. The intricate transformations that occur during post-fermentation involve oxidation, degradation, methylation, glycosylation, and so forth, laying the substance foundation for the distinctive sensory traits. Additionally, LBT contains multitudinous bioactive compounds, such as ellagic acid, catechins, polysaccharides, and theabrownins, which contributes to the diverse modulation abilities on oxidative stress, metabolic syndromes, organic damage, and microbiota flora. However, research on LBT is currently scattered, and there is an urgent need for a systematical recapitulation of the manufacturing process, the dominant microorganisms during fermentation, the dynamic chemical alterations, the sensory traits, and the underlying health benefits. In this review, current research progresses on the peculiar tea varieties, the traditional and modern process technologies, the substance basis of sensory traits, and the latent bioactivities of LBT were comprehensively summarized. Furthermore, the present challenges and deficiencies that hinder the development of LBT, and the possible orientations and future perspectives were thoroughly discussed. By far, the productivity and quality of LBT remain restricted due to the reliance on labor and experience, as well as the incomplete understanding of the intricate interactions and underlying mechanisms involved in processing, organoleptic quality, and bioactivities. Consequently, further research is urgently warranted to address these gaps.
Topics: Tea; Camellia sinensis; China; Catechin; Oxidative Stress
PubMed: 37850384
DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13254 -
Environmental Research Dec 2023Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Associations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers with oxidative stress markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are intentionally produced persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that are resistant to environmental degradation. Previous in-vitro and in-vivo studies have shown that POPs can induce oxidative stress, which is linked to neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. However, findings in epidemiological studies are inconsistent and an evidence synthesis study is lacking to summarize the existing literature and explore research gaps.
OBJECTIVE
We evaluated the effects of PFAS, PCBs, OCPs, and PBDEs, on oxidative stress biomarkers in epidemiological studies.
METHODS
A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL to identify all published studies related to POPs and oxidative stress up to December 7, 2022. We included human observational studies reporting at least one exposure to POPs and an oxidative stress biomarker of interest. Random-effects meta-analyses on standardized regression coefficients and effect direction plots with one-tailed sign tests were used for quantitative synthesis.
RESULTS
We identified 33 studies on OCPs, 35 on PCBs, 49 on PFAS, and 12 on PBDEs. Meta-analyses revealed significant positive associations of α-HCH with protein carbonyls (0.035 [0.017, 0.054]) and of 4'4-DDE with malondialdehyde (0.121 [0.056, 0.187]), as well as a significant negative association between 2'4-DDE and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (-0.042 [-0.079, -0.004]), all β [95%CI]. Sign tests showed a significant positive association between PCBs and malondialdehyde (p = 0.03). Additionally, we found significant negative associations of OCPs with acetylcholine esterase (p = 0.02) and paraoxonase-1 (p = 0.03). However, there were inconsistent associations of OCPs with superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase.
CONCLUSIONS
Higher levels of OCPs were associated with increased levels of oxidative stress through increased pro-oxidant biomarkers involving protein oxidation, DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation, as well as decreased TAC. These findings have the potential to reveal the underlying mechanisms of POPs toxicity.
Topics: Humans; Antioxidants; Biomarkers; Environmental Pollutants; Fluorocarbons; Halogenated Diphenyl Ethers; Hydrocarbons, Chlorinated; Malondialdehyde; Oxidative Stress; Pesticides; Polychlorinated Biphenyls
PubMed: 37813138
DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117308 -
Microscopy Research and Technique Feb 2024The purpose of this systematic review of meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness of removing the smearing layer using EDTA versus Chitosan (Ch) and Chitosan... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The comparative of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticle versus ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on the smear layer removal: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro study.
The purpose of this systematic review of meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness of removing the smearing layer using EDTA versus Chitosan (Ch) and Chitosan nanoparticles (Ch-NPs). A search was performed in four electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane). The included studies were assessed by two reviewers using Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklist for the quasi-experimental studies. Outcomes obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and conventional methods were presented as standardized mean differences alongside 95% confidence intervals. Seven investigations employed 212 single-root teeth. In the apical section (p = .317, 95% CI = -0.820 to 0.266, Tau = 0.387), middle segment (p = .914, 95% CI = -1.019 to 0.912, Tau = 1.027), and coronal segment (p = .277, 95% CI = -1.008 to 0.289, Tau = 0.378). This meta-analysis found no difference between Ch, Ch-NPs, and EDTA in removing the smear layer in the three segments. This systematic review is designed to show evidence related to the PICO question, in which our outcome is smear layer removal and not the clinical success of such a treatment. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in removing the smear layer, a layer of debris and organic material on the tooth surface, through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The removal of the smear layer is crucial for successful dental treatments, as it enhances the adhesion of restorative materials and improves the penetration of antimicrobial agents into dentinal tubules. The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching various databases of electron microscopy results for relevant in vitro studies comparing the effects of chitosan or chitosan nanoparticles with EDTA on smear layer removal. The results encourage further exploration of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles for clinical use in dentistry, while considering their specific applications and long-term effects.
Topics: Humans; Edetic Acid; Chitosan; Smear Layer; Root Canal Preparation; Sodium Hypochlorite; Root Canal Irrigants; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Dental Pulp Cavity
PubMed: 37732467
DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24423 -
The Science of the Total Environment Dec 2023Water and food security are constantly on the sustainable development agenda since they are interrelated with anthropogenic and ecosystemic issues present in the... (Review)
Review
Water and food security are constantly on the sustainable development agenda since they are interrelated with anthropogenic and ecosystemic issues present in the economic, environmental, and social spheres. The non-integrative management of these issues points to unsustainable futures. In this context, nexus approaches deserve considerable attention in the search for integrative management solutions capable of contributing to leveraging synergies that increase agricultural productivity, while simultaneously reducing environmental impacts, including water resources. This systematic literature review article aims to analyze the integration factors from the perspective of the water - food - environment nexus in the context of water and agricultural sustainability. The systematic methodology, including a content analysis, allowed the identification of analytical categories composed of the most present integrating factors and discussed in the scientific scope and how they are correlated from the perspective of the nexus. Among the extensive number of factors, the systemic management inserted in the integrated management of watersheds, the sustainable intensification from the perspective of food security and the demand for water resources, categorized in water security, presented higher frequency of occurrence when compared with the other factors. It is proposed that these factors can be considered as indicators of sustainability in the context of integrated water resources management and agricultural food production, since their synergistic effects have consequences in the water, agricultural and environmental management sectors. Thus, this study stands out for identifying trends and gaps in the water - food - environment nexus that can contribute to the development of innovative decision-making tools, in order to assist in the management of the watershed, where agriculture plays a key role in socio-environmental issues.
Topics: Water Supply; Food; Sustainable Development; Agriculture; Food Supply; Water
PubMed: 37678519
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166866 -
Brain Research Dec 2023Anxiety is a mental disorder characterized by excessive concern about possible future threats that, if prolonged, becomes a pathology that must be controlled through... (Review)
Review
Anxiety is a mental disorder characterized by excessive concern about possible future threats that, if prolonged, becomes a pathology that must be controlled through psychotherapy and medication. Currently, the pharmacological treatment for anxiety involves the use of antidepressants and benzodiazepines; however, these treatments often come with adverse effects. Thus, there is a need to seek natural compounds that can help alleviate anxiety and reduce these side effects. On the other hand, pomegranate (PG) fruit is known to have important health benefits, which have been compiled in several reviews. However, its anxiolytic effect has not been thoroughly studied, and clinical research on this topic is lacking. The aim of this work was to conduct a systematic review of studies exploring the anxiolytic-like effect of PG and its phytochemicals. Databases such as Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Springer link, Google scholar, Worldwide science, and Web of science were searched for articles using predetermined terms. Inclusion criteria were established, and original articles that met these criteria were selected. The data collected included information on PG part and variety, species, sample size, anxiety model, dose, route and time of administration, reference drug, main results, and the mechanisms of action. Fifty-nine studies were found that reported the anxiolytic-like effect of PG and its phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, tannins, organic acids, and xanthonoids. The literature suggests that the mechanisms of action behind this effect involved the inhibition of the GABAergic receptor, NMDA, CaMKII/CREB pathway; the reduction of oxidative stress, inhibiting TLR4 and nNOS; modulation of cytokines and the expression of NFkB, GAD67, and iNOS, as well as the activation of Nrf2 and AMPK. PG and some of its phytochemicals could be considered as a novel alternative for the treatment of pathological anxiety. This review is the first to document the anxiolytic-like effect of PG.
Topics: Humans; Pomegranate; Fruit; Anti-Anxiety Agents; Lythraceae; Anthocyanins; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 37640097
DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148554 -
Nutrients Jul 2023Stevia ( Bertoni) is an aromatic plant known for its high sweetening power ascribed to its glycosides. Stevia also contains several bioactive compounds showing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Stevia ( Bertoni) is an aromatic plant known for its high sweetening power ascribed to its glycosides. Stevia also contains several bioactive compounds showing antioxidant, antiproliferative, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Since inflammation and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many diseases, stevia emerges as a promising natural product that could support human health. In this study we set out to investigate the way stevia affects oxidative stress markers (e.g., SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, MDA) in diseased rats administered stevia leaf extracts or glycosides. To this end, we performed an inclusive literature search, following PRISMA guidelines, and recruited multivariate meta-analysis and meta-regression to synthesize all available data on experimental animal models encountering (a) healthy, (b) diseased, and (c) stevia-treated diseased rats. From the 184 articles initially retrieved, 24 satisfied the eligibility criteria, containing 104 studies. Our results demonstrate that regardless of the assay employed, stevia leaf extracts restored all oxidative stress markers to a higher extent compared to pure glycosides. Meta-regression analysis revealed that results from SOD, CAT, GSH, and TAC assays are not statistically significantly different ( = 0.184) and can be combined in meta-analysis. Organic extracts from stevia leaves showed more robust antioxidant properties compared to aqueous or hydroalcoholic ones. The restoration of oxidative markers ranged from 65% to 85% and was exhibited in all tested tissues. Rats with diabetes mellitus were found to have the highest restorative response to stevia leaf extract administration. Our results suggest that stevia leaf extract can act protectively against various diseases through its antioxidant properties. However, which of each of the multitude of stevia compounds contribute to this effect, and to what extent, awaits further investigation.
Topics: Humans; Rats; Animals; Antioxidants; Stevia; Plant Extracts; Glycosides; Superoxide Dismutase; Plant Leaves
PubMed: 37571265
DOI: 10.3390/nu15153325 -
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex... Oct 2023The overwhelming concerns of water pollution, industrial discharges and environmental deterioration by various organic and inorganic substances, including dyes, heavy... (Review)
Review
The overwhelming concerns of water pollution, industrial discharges and environmental deterioration by various organic and inorganic substances, including dyes, heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and detergents, intrinsically drive the search for urgent and efficacious decontamination techniques. This review illustrates the various approaches to remediation, their fundamentals, characteristics and demerits. In this manner, the advantageous implementation of nature-based adsorbents has been outlined and discussed. Different types of lignocellulosic compounds (cellulose, lignin, chitin, chitosan, starch) have been introduced, and the most used biopolymeric materials in bioremediation have been highlighted; their merits, synthesis methods, properties and performances in aqueous medium decontamination have been described. The literature assessment reveals the genuine interest and dependence of academic and industrial fields to valorize biopolymers in the adsorption of various hazardous substances. Yet, the full potential of this approach is still confined by certain constraints, such as the lack of reliable, substantial, and efficient extraction of biopolymers, as well as their modest and inconsistent physicochemical properties. The futuristic reliance on such biomaterials in all fields, rather than adsorption, is inherently reliable on in-depth investigations and understanding of their features and mechanisms, which can guarantee a real-world application and green technologies.
Topics: Polymers; Water; Adsorption; Decontamination; Water Pollutants, Chemical; Biopolymers; Metals, Heavy; Water Purification
PubMed: 37562526
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122349 -
Environmental Research Nov 2023This systematic review aimed to evaluate the status of Human Biomonitoring (HBM) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and provide recommendations for future... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
This systematic review aimed to evaluate the status of Human Biomonitoring (HBM) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and provide recommendations for future research, considering the increased environmental contaminants that pose a threat to human health in this rapidly industrializing area.
METHODS
A thorough search was performed in PubMed and Web of Science databases up to February 2023 to identify biomonitoring studies on human exposure and levels in the GCC region. Two independent reviewers assessed study eligibility, conducted data extraction and risk of bias assessment. The NIH Quality Assessment Tools and PRISMA guidelines were utilized for quality evaluation and reporting of results.
RESULTS
A total of 38 eligible articles were included in this systematic review out of 662 articles screened. The majority of the publications were from Saudi Arabia (n = 24) and Kuwait (n = 10), while limited representation was found from Qatar (n = 3) and the UAE (n = 1). No articles were identified from Oman and Bahrain. The studies focused on metals, organohalogen compounds, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and phthalates. The findings revealed elevated levels of metals and established correlations between metal exposure and adverse health effects, including infant neurodevelopmental issues, vitamin D deficiency, and oxidative stress. The presence of organohalogen compounds and pesticides was prevalent in the GCC region, with significant associations between exposure to these compounds and negative health outcomes. Notably, high levels of perchlorate were observed in the Kuwaiti population, and a study from Saudi Arabia found an association between per- and polyfluorinated substances and increased odds of osteoporosis.
CONCLUSIONS
This review emphasizes the need to address environmental health challenges in the GCC region through improved HBM research methods and strategies. Implementing biomonitoring programs, conducting cohort studies, investing in tools and expertise, promoting collaboration, and engaging the community are crucial for reliable HBM data in the GCC.
Topics: Humans; Biological Monitoring; Saudi Arabia; Kuwait; Oman; Pesticides
PubMed: 37479209
DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116650 -
Journal of Clinical and Experimental... Jun 2023A systematic review was carried out to compare the disinfectant capacity of hydroxyl radicals (OH-) versus other products commonly used for disinfecting the air and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
A systematic review was carried out to compare the disinfectant capacity of hydroxyl radicals (OH-) versus other products commonly used for disinfecting the air and surfaces.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
A literature search was made of the Cochrane Library, PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scopus databases. "In vitro" studies evaluating disinfection methods applicable to several surfaces and room air were included in the search. The search was carried out in April 2022, with no restrictions in terms of language or publication date.
RESULTS
Of the 308 articles identified from the initial search, 8 were included for the quantitative analysis. All publications corresponded to experimental "in vitro" studies. Seven of them evaluated biocidal action against bacteria, and only two assessed activity against viral loads. The generation of contaminants secondary to application of the disinfectants was only analyzed in one of the studies, with the conclusion that the production of peroxyl radicals (RO2) derived from the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is greater when chemical surface disinfectants are used versus air disinfection systems.
CONCLUSIONS
The disinfection capacities of the currently available methods are similar, and none of them are able to replace the use of additional physical protection measures. Disinfection methods, hydroxyl radical, environment, surfaces, dentistry.
PubMed: 37388429
DOI: 10.4317/jced.60461