Modification Of Function Research Articles

Carboxymethyl chitosan: Synthesis, functional properties, and applications in sustainable food packaging material.

Global environmental concerns about non-degradable packaging materials are increasing. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), a polysaccharide widely used in the food industry, has gained attention in the field of food packaging. Due to its biodegradability, film-forming ability, and biocompatibility, CMCS has emerged as a sustainable option for degradable and functional food packaging materials, offering solutions to plastic pollution and food waste issues. This review explores CMCS as a food packaging and delivery material, detailing its synthesis methods, optimal preparation conditions, functional properties post-carboxymethylation, and applications in the food industry, alongside safety assessments. It summarizes the physicochemical interactions of CMCS-based composites and their impact on relevant properties, highlighting CMCS's potential as a green strategy for smart and active food packaging materials. Additionally, it presents the latest advancements in CMCS applications in the food industry over the past decade. CMCS exhibits good biocompatibility and antibacterial properties, and its functionality in food packaging films and delivery materials is enhanced through functional modification and polymerization. CMCS is widely used as a matrix for food preservation films or coatings and as a carrier for active ingredients, thereby improving the encapsulation efficiency and storage stability of functional food components. This review comprehensively outlines the applications of CMCS in the food industry, filling gaps in the existing literature, and laying a theoretical foundation for the development of CMCS technology. It provides a reference for further research, emphasizing the need to further investigate its molecular structure and chemical properties to optimize functionality and safety, thereby fully tapping into the potential of CMCS in the food industry.

Influence of gamma radiation on the structure of porous graphene

To understand the modification effect of gamma radiation on porous graphene, this study investigates the changes in structure and functional groups of porous graphene after exposure to gamma radiation. Porous graphene materials were irradiated using a60Co gamma radiation source. Raman spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM, and XRD were utilized for the analysis of the samples. The results indicate that gamma radiation possesses oxidative capabilities on the material surface and the ability to alter the composition of its functional groups, with more significant radiation effects observed at the edges of the pores. For the non-edge parts of the carbon framework, the radiation damage is relatively limited. The experimental study reveals the modification capabilities of gamma radiation, demonstrating the application prospects of gamma radiation functional modification, and provides new ideas to the functional modification of porous graphene and other graphene derivatives.

Value-based optimization model for cultural route design: Ancient Water Supply Heritage of Istanbul (Türkiye)

Cultural tourism has become an increasingly growing human activity in today's world. Therefore, various cultural/natural heritage areas or buildings face large tourist crowds, causing physical, social, or cultural deterioration. Cultural routes, which provide a systematic approach and planned tourists move, can reduce the negative effects of overtourism. This study aims to develop an optimization model as a supportive tool for the cultural route design process. The proposed optimization model aims to maximize cultural experience while satisfying constraints on heritage values, building types, historical eras, and general routing rules. Moreover, this model, creating optimized cultural routes, is expected to contribute to regulating economic income and tourist density. As a case study, the ancient water supply systems of Istanbul, inherited from the Roman and the Ottoman empires and currently overlooked, are investigated. Heritage values, mentioned in the extensive literature, are reviewed and the values/attributes for this study are appointed according to the characteristics of the case heritage assets, and their environment. The values of the case structures are evaluated with value analysis after field study. An optimum cultural route for Istanbul's historical water supply heritage, according to the objective and the constraints of the model, is obtained by solving the model with the case data. The resulting route can make this overlooked heritage of Istanbul recognized and spread the tourist density in the city center. The model is flexible, allowing for easy modification of the objective function, constraints, and values when designing routes across various heritage sites. This model can be used not only in the design of new cultural routes but also in optimizing existing routes.

Preparation of high-efficient donor-π-acceptor system with crystalline g-C3N4 as charge transfer module for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) type photocatalysts with g-C3N4 as π-module have attracted much attention due to their optimized conjugate structure and enhanced electron directed driving. However, the inefficient charges migration of g-C3N4 due to its amorphous or semi-crystalline structure and limitation of available functional groups are present challenges. In this work, the D-π-A type high crystalline carbon nitride (HCCN) has been obtained by in-situ introducing amide and cyanide groups into the high-crystallinity melon framework. The synergistic effect of functional group modification and crystallinity regulation greatly enhances the electron induction driving and charge carrier density. Moreover, the density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the D-π-A structure could induce the local charge distribution of melon units to provide a unique and stable pathway for photoinduced charges migration. The as-prepared HCCN sample shows a superior visible-light photocatalytic performance for hydrogen evolution with an apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) of 12.2 ​% at 420 ​± ​15 ​nm, which is 23.7 times higher than that of original g-C3N4. Finally, the charge separation and transfer processes as well as the possible photocatalytic reaction mechanisms of HCCN sample are also investigated.

Eutectic Strategy for the Solvent-Free Synthesis of Hydrophobic Cellulosic Cross-Linked Networks with Broad Multifunctional Applications.

Cellulose-based functional materials play a crucial role in sustainable social development. However, during the material synthesis process, there is typically significant reliance on various solvent systems for macroscopic- or molecular-scale functionalization modifications. In this study, an innovative hydrophobic eutectic solvent (HES) was developed using ethyl cellulose (EC) and thymol (Thy) without any external solvents. Utilizing this homogeneous system, it is convenient to chemically modify the components without any catalyst. Furthermore, a hydrophobic cellulosic cross-linked network (HCCN) can be successfully prepared through in situ photopolymerization. The HCCN film exhibits high transparency, excellent mechanical properties, chemical stability, and durability. The EC/Thy prepolymer system also demonstrates favorable processability for the preparation of various polymeric materials. Additionally, the applicability of other biomasses and derivatives based on the eutectic strategy has been verified. The methodology proposed in this study offers novel insights into the green and solvent-free preparation of biomass functional materials.

Enhancing the catalytic efficiency of nitrilase for sterically hindered substrates by distal sites engineering

Nitrilases are enzymes capable of converting nitriles into carboxylic acids under mild conditions. However, wild type nitrilases typically exhibit poor catalytic efficiency towards sterically hindered substrates. This study investigates the role of distal amino acid residues in enhancing the catalytic efficiency of nitrilase for hydrolyzing sterically hindered substrates. Initially, consensus sequence analysis and structure-guided loop scanning strategies were employed to identify key distal residues. Subsequently, site-directed saturation mutagenesis and combinatorial mutations led to the generation of a mutant T171P/T173E/H181F/T225A/N146D, which exhibited a 9.5-fold increase in enzyme activity compared to the wild type when p-methoxybenzonitrile was used as a substrate. Moreover, the mutant also showed excellent catalytic performance with various sterically hindered substrates and in scaled-up reactions. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that distal mutations can induce conformational changes through residue interaction networks, thereby optimizing the enzyme's substrate-binding pocket and enhancing its catalytic efficiency. This study offers a comprehensive investigation into the role of distal amino acid residues in modulating the catalytic efficiency of nitrilase towards sterically hindered substrates and provides insights into enzyme function modification via distal site mutations.

A novel method for subgrade cumulative deformation prediction of high-speed railways based on empiricism-constrained neural network and SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis

Understanding the long-term deformation of high-speed railway subgrade is essential for solving deformation issues and managing operations. Machine learning methods are commonly used to predict subgrade cumulative deformation (SCD). However, traditional machine learning models for SCD prediction have poor generalization to new data and lack visualization. Hence, this study proposes a novel method using an empiricism-constrained neural network (ECNN) and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis for predicting SCD of high-speed railways. Firstly, the SCD prediction dataset is constructed and divided into training and test sets. Then, neural network models are developed using the training set, and the optimal model is determined based on the comprehensive scoring results on the test set. The optimal model couples empirical information into the neural network with loss function modification, to create the ECNN model. Finally, the interpretability of the ECNN model is analyzed using the SHAP method. The results indicate that the Bi-directional Gated Recurrent Unit (Bi-GRU) model is the optimal model with the highest CSI value of 23. The ECNN model outperforms the Bi-GRU in generalization to new data, especially in long-term SCD prediction with limited training data. Contribution analysis shows that the top two features influencing the prediction are St-1 (54.4%) and St-2 (30.4%), consistent with the findings of the ablation analysis. The research results can provide a new reference for predicting the SCD of high-speed railways.

Total Synthesis Analysis of Pseuboyenes D

In this work, we propose a total synthesis route for the antifungal agent Pseuboyenes D, a compound derived from Pseudallescheria boydii CS-793. Pseuboyenes D exhibits antifungal activity comparable to Amphotericin B while offering the advantage of a simpler structure, making it a promising candidate for clinical applications. The system became the focus of this analysis due to its regioselectivity, and after exploration, a [2+2] photocycloaddition and ring expansion strategy was adopted to construct the key bridged ring system. The route employs readily available substrates and mild reaction conditions, making it scalable and suitable for large-scale production. Computational analysis of the regioselectivity of the photocycloaddition revealed that the bridged adduct was thermodynamically favored over the fused system. The synthetic route was further diversified by incorporating functional group modifications using TMS derivatives, enhancing the potential for pharmacological applications. Overall, this work establishes an efficient and scalable synthetic pathway for Pseuboyenes D, paving the way for future applications in antifungal drug development.

Involvement of E3 Ubiquitin Ligases in Viral Infections of the Human Host.

Viral infections are one of the principal causes of global primary health crises, with increased rate of infection and mortality demonstrated by the newer progeny of viruses. Viral invasion of the host involves utilization of various cellular machinery. Ubiquitination is one of a few central regulatory systems used by viruses for establishment of the infections in the host. Members of the ubiquitination system are involved in carrying out proteasomal degradation or functional modification of proteins in numerous cellular processes. E3 ubiquitin ligases play a major role in this system through recognition and recruitment of protein substrates and catalyzing the transfer of ubiquitin to these substrates. The versatility of ubiquitin ligases frequently makes them useful tools for the viruses, for either utilizing or degrading other cellular machineries, for carrying out their multiplication or inactivating the defensive strategies of the host. Therefore, these ligases are important targets for aiming at major pathways causing viral protein degradation or functional modification of the infection process. In this review, we have discussed the role and mechanism of different types of ubiquitin ligases in the context of infections of mainly human viruses, highlighting the viral proteins directly interacting with the ligases. Knowledge about these direct interactions is central in understanding the ubiquitin-dependent processes. This comprehensive account may also be beneficial for pharmaceutical exploration of E3 ligase-based broad-spectrum antiviral treatment.

Effects of Dapagliflozin on myocardial performance in non-diabetic patients with Heart failure with reduced and mid-range ejection fraction (DAPA ECHO trial)

Abstract Background Sodium-glucose cotransporter type-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) showed to reduced morbidity andmortality in HF patients. The aim of this study was to assess potential effects of dapagliflozin in non-diabetic patients with heart failure (HF) with reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF and HFmrEF) on cardiac function assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). Methods This randomized, prospective, single-center, open-label trial compared consecutive non-diabetic outpatients with HFrEF or HFmrEF receiving dapagliflozin with patients treated with optimal medical therapy (OMT) except SGLT2i (Fig.1). Primary endpoint was the modification of left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), diastolic function (as peak atrial longitudinal strain, PALS) and right ventricular (RV) function by STE from baseline to 6 months. Cardiovascular events and parameters of congestion were assessed as safety-exploratory endpoints. Results Overall, 88 patients (38% HFmrEF) were enrolled and randomized to start dapagliflozin on top of OMT (n=44) or to continue with OMT (n=44). All STE values improved in dapagliflozin group after 6 months, while there was a non-significant improvement in OMT group (Fig.1). Moreover, when comparing the modification of STE parameters at follow up in HFrEF and HFmrEF patients, only the main treatment effect resulted statistically significant in both groups (p<0.0001), indicating a significant difference between dapagliflozin and OMT. Conclusions This study provided randomized data on the beneficial effect of dapagliflozin in non-diabetic patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF in terms of myocardial performance measured by the most sensitive echocardiographic technique i.e. STE. This suggests its usefulness for LV reverse remodeling and better quality of life in patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF.

Effects of baroreceptor reflex modification on efficacy of ablation for atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a significant role in atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter ablation (CA) is a well-established treatment method for AF and significantly affects ANS, including baroreceptors (BR) function. However, little is known about the changes in the BR function caused by radiofrequency (RF) or cryo-energy (CB) influence the efficacy of AF ablation. Purpose To assess one-year efficacy of CA of AF in relation to BR function modification and type of ablation energy used. Methods The study group consisted of 78 patients (25 females, mean age 58±9 years) with paroxysmal AF and first CA (39 patients (RF group) and 39 (CB group)). The BR function was assessed non-invasively using tilt testing and three parameters: event count (BREC) depicting overall BR activity, slope mean depicting BR sensitivity (BRS) and BR effectiveness index (BEI). The efficacy of CA was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months after CA using 24-hour Holter ECG recordings and dedicated scale (University of Toronto Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale (AFSS)). Results After CA, BR function decreased in the whole group (mean BREC 12.0±3.0-22.0 vs 6.0±3.0-18.0, p=0.004; mean BRS 4.8±3.6-6.8 vs 4.0±3.0-5.8, p=0.014; mean BEI 18.7±8.3-27.4 vs 12.0±5.1-21.0, p=0.009). BREC was significantly more decreased in the CB vs RF (mean 12.0±3.0-22.0 vs 6.0±3.0-18.0, p=0.004). Similar trend was noted for BRS and BEI. On repeated Holter ECG monitorings efficacy of CB and RF was similar (89.7% vs 82.9% p=0.502, 89.7 vs 85.7%; p=0.727 and 84.6 vs 80%; p=0.602, respectively). According to AFSS, the AF symptoms were significantly reduced in both groups (CB baseline vs 3, 6 a and 12 months, respectively (median): 6.0 (IQR 2.0 – 13.0) vs 2.5 (IQR 1.0 – 4.0), p<0.001; 6.0 (IQR 2.0 – 13.0) vs 1.5 (IQR 0.0 – 4.0), p<0.001; 6.0 (IQR 2.0 – 13.0) vs 1.5 (IQR 0.0 – 4.0), p=0.002; RF baseline vs 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively (median): 10.5 (IQR 5.0 – 14.0) vs 7.0 (IQR 1.0 – 12.0), p=0.173; 10.5 (IQR 5.0 – 14.0) vs: 6.0 (IQR 2.0 – 12.0), p=0.015; 10.5 (IQR 5.0 – 14.0) vs 6.5 (IQR 2.0 – 12.0), p=0.005). After the adjustment for baseline there was no significant differencies between both groups (Table). Conclusions CA significantly affected BR function. These changes were more pronounced following CB than RF CA. However, the efficacy of RF and CB was similar.

Nanostructure Formation in Glycerolipid Films during Enzymatic Hydrolysis: A GISAXS Study.

Responsive nanostructured films from food-grade lipids can be valuable for food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological science. Lyotropic liquid crystalline structures that respond to enzymes in their environment can, for instance, be innovated as drug delivery platforms or biosensors. However, the structural changes that such films undergo during enzymatic reactions with lipase are not yet understood. This work demonstrates the preparation of mesostructured lipid films from the food-grade lipids glycerol monooleate (GMO) and triolein on silicon wafers and their digestion with pancreatic lipase using time-resolved synchrotron grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS). The film structure is compared with the corresponding GMO/triolein bulk phases in excess water. Increasing the GMO/triolein ratio in the film makes it possible to modulate the structure of the films from oil coatings to inverse hexagonal and inverse bicontinuous cubic films. Pancreatic lipase triggered swelling of the internal film nanostructure and eventually structural transformation inside the film. Orientation and reorientation of the internal film structure relative to the silicon wafer surface were observed during the preparation of the films and their digestion. The findings contribute to the understanding of self-assembly in thin films and guide the development of enzyme-responsive coatings for the functional modification of various substrates.

Decoding PTEN: from biological functions to signaling pathways in tumors.

The tumor suppressor gene Phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), possessing both protein and lipid phosphatase activities, is frequently mutated in various human cancers. PTEN aberrations disrupt critical cellular processes like proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion, thereby promoting tumor growth. In the cells, PTEN localizes to the nucleus, cytoplasm, or cell membrane, and its roles depends on the subcellular localization. PTEN is regulated at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels, implying that its functions on the tumors are complex. The relationship between PTEN abnormalities and tumors has garnered significant interest in recent years. PTEN regulates essential cellular processes involved in tumorigenesis. Mutations or deletions in the PTEN gene often correlate with unfavorable prognosis and increased cancer recurrence. Numerous studies suggest that PTEN expression levels in tumors could be a valuable biomarker for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and predicting patient outcomes. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the biological function, regulatory mechanisms, and post-translational modifications of PTEN. Furthermore, this review explores the expression and regulation of PTEN in different tumor types, as well as its interactions with environmental factors in tumorigenesis. This comprehensive analysis aims to deepen our understanding of the signaling pathways between PTEN and cancer.

Configurational Isomerization‐Induced Orientation Switching: Non‐Fused Ring Dipodal Phosphonic Acids as Hole‐Extraction Layers for Efficient Organic Solar Cells

AbstractPhosphonic acid (PA) self‐assembled molecules have recently emerged as efficient hole‐extraction layers (HELs) for organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the structural effects of PAs on their self‐assembly behaviors on indium tin oxide (ITO) and thus photovoltaic performance remain obscure. Herein, we present a novel class of PAs, namely “non‐fused ring dipodal phosphonic acids” (NFR‐DPAs), featuring simple and malleable non‐fused ring backbones and dipodal phosphonic acid anchoring groups. The efficacy of configurational isomerism in modulating the photoelectronic properties and switching molecular orientation of PAs atop electrodes results in distinct substrate surface energy and electronic characteristics. The NFR‐DPA with linear (C2h symmetry) and brominated backbone exhibits favorable face‐on orientation and enhanced work function modification capability compared to its angular (C2v symmetry) and non‐brominated counterparts. This makes it versatile HELs in mitigating interfacial resistance for energy barrier‐free hole collection, and affording optimal active layer morphology, which results in an impressive efficiency of 19.11 % with a low voltage loss of 0.52 V for binary OSC devices and an excellent efficiency of 19.66 % for ternary OSC devices. This study presents a new dimension to design PA‐based HELs for high‐performance OSCs.

Configurational Isomerization-Induced Orientation Switching: Non-Fused Ring Dipodal Phosphonic Acids as Hole-Extraction Layers for Efficient Organic Solar Cells.

Phosphonic acid (PA) self-assembled molecules have recently emerged as efficient hole-extraction layers (HELs) for organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the structural effects of PAs on their self-assembly behaviors on indium tin oxide (ITO) and thus photovoltaic performance remain obscure. Herein, we present a novel class of PAs, namely "non-fused ring dipodal phosphonic acids" (NFR-DPAs), featuring simple and malleable non-fused ring backbones and dipodal phosphonic acid anchoring groups. The efficacy of configurational isomerism in modulating the photoelectronic properties and switching molecular orientation of PAs atop electrodes results in distinct substrate surface energy and electronic characteristics. The NFR-DPA with linear (C2h symmetry) and brominated backbone exhibits favorable face-on orientation and enhanced work function modification capability compared to its angular (C2v symmetry) and non-brominated counterparts. This makes it versatile HELs in mitigating interfacial resistance for energy barrier-free hole collection, and affording optimal active layer morphology, which results in an impressive efficiency of 19.11 % with a low voltage loss of 0.52 V for binary OSC devices and an excellent efficiency of 19.66 % for ternary OSC devices. This study presents a new dimension to design PA-based HELs for high-performance OSCs.

Tailor-made curdlan based nanofibrous dressings enable diabetic wound healing

The development and application of novel polysaccharides that can improve diabetic wound healing is crucial. Dressings containing curdlan have the potential to promote healing in diabetic wounds, but the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In addition, the functional modifications that could further enhance the activity of curdlan in promoting diabetic wound healing have not been explored. Herein, we investigated the capabilities of curdlan (CU) and its four derivatives i.e., sulfated curdlan (SC), amino-curdlan (AC) carboxymethyl curdlan (CMC) and CMC/ZnO nanocomposites for diabetic wound healing. Pristine CU and its derivatives were blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to fabricate electrospun nanofiber dressings (ENDs) with uniform appearances. The PVA/CU, PVA/CMC and PVA/CMC-ZnO ENDs were more compatible with keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and macrophages than that of PVA/AC ENDs. Notably, PVA/CMC ENDs and PVA/CMC-ZnO ENDs exhibited superior wound healing efficiencies than other ENDs. Among various dressings, PVA/CU, PVA/SC, PVA/CMC ENDs effectively reduced M1 macrophages and facilitated M2 phenotype at early stage of diabetic wound healing. Collectively, the PVA/CMC ENDs demonstrated greater therapeutic potential against diabetic wounds compared to other modified scaffolds via regulating macrophage polarization.

Functional characteristics and molecular structural modification of plant proteins. Review

Protein preparations from plant raw materials are widely used in the food industry as improvers, replacers or enrichers for products. However, their functional properties, as a rule, are less pronounced than those of proteins of animal origin. The aim of the review is to analyze and summarize the results of investigations dedicated to studying and characterizing the main functional properties of plant proteins (hydration, solubility, water binding capacity, fat binding capacity and gel-forming capacity, stability of emulsions, foams, rheological properties, texturization) and their modification. The objects of the research were scientific publications, most of which were published in 2017–2024. Functional properties of proteins were characterized; their dependence on the nature and variety of crop, methods of extraction, technological factors of processing and methods of modification was revealed. The search and selection of papers were carried out in the bibliographic databases eLIBRARY.RU, RSCI, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, Elsevier, and PubMed. Data analysis was performed with their systematization, generalization, intermediate conclusions and general conclusion. The special attention was paid to chemical, physical, physico-chemical and enzymatic methods for modification of protein properties, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the interrelation of structural and physico-chemical features of proteins with their functional properties. The main regularities were revealed for an effect of modification methods on the secondary and tertiary structures of proteins, surface hydrophobicity, the ratio from fractions, aggregation, denaturation and biological activity obtained by the modern methods of investigations (IR‑spectroscopy, fluorescent microscopy, SDS-PAGE, circular dichroism, spectrophotometry and so on). It has been concluded that it is necessary to carry out further investigations aimed to studying interrelation of molecular structural features of proteins with indicators of functionality and regularities of their behavior in food systems due to an increase in the production of protein preparations from alternative raw materials (pea, chickpea, sunflower, kidney bean, rice and others). Based on the revealed and newly obtained theoretical information, the targeted modification and regulation of properties of protein ingredients for production of high-quality foods are possible.

Multi-omics insights into the microbiota-gut-brain axis and cognitive improvement post-bariatric surgery

BackgroundAlthough numerous studies have shown that bariatric surgery results in sustained weight loss and modifications in gut microbiota composition and cognitive function, the exact underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of bariatric surgery on cognitive function through the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA).MethodsDemographic data, serum samples, fecal samples, cognitive assessment scales, and resting-state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scans were obtained from 39 obese patients before and after (6 months) laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). PCA analysis, OPLS-DA analysis, and permutation tests were used to conduct fecal 16 S microbiota profiling, serum metabolomics, and neuroimaging analyses, and a bariatric surgery-specific rs-fMRI brain functional connectivity network was constructed. Spearman correlation analysis and Co-inertia analysis were employed to correlate significant alterations in cognitive assessment scales and resting-state functional connectivity difference networks with differential serum metabolites and 16 S microbiota data to identify key gut microbiota and serum metabolic factors.ResultsLSG significantly reduced the weight of obese patients, with reductions of up to 28%. Furthermore, cognitive assessment scale measurements revealed that LSG enhanced cognitive functions, including memory (HVLT, p = 0.000) and executive function (SCWT, p = 0.008). Also, LSG significantly altered gut microbiota composition (p = 0.001), with increased microbial abundance and diversity (p < 0.05). Moreover, serum metabolite levels were significantly altered, revealing intergroup differences in 229 metabolites mapped to 72 metabolic pathways (p < 0.05, VIP > 1). Spearman correlation analysis among cognitive assessment scales, gut microbiota species, and serum metabolites revealed correlations with 68 gut microbiota species and 138 serum metabolites (p < 0.05). Furthermore, pairwise correlations were detected between gut microbiota and serum metabolites (p < 0.05). Functional neuroimaging analysis revealed that LSG increased functional connectivity in cognitive-related frontotemporal networks (FPN, p < 0.01). Additionally, normalization of the default mode network (DMN) and salience network (SN) connectivity was observed after LSG (p < 0.001). Further canonical correlation and correlation analysis suggested that the cognitive-related brain network changes induced by LSG were associated with key gut microbiota species (Akkermansia, Blautia, Collinsella, Phascolarctobacterium, and Ruminococcus, p < 0.05) and neuroactive metabolites (Glycine, L-Serine, DL-Dopa, SM (d18:1/24:1(15Z), p < 0.05).ConclusionThese findings indicate the pathophysiological role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in enhancing cognitive function after bariatric surgery, and the study provides a basis for clinical dietary adjustments, probiotic supplementation, and guidance for bariatric surgery, but further research is still needed.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100049403. Registered 02 August 2021, https://www.chictr.org.cn/.

Inertial measurement units to evaluate the efficacity of Equino Varus Foot surgery in post stroke hemiparetic patients: a feasibility study

IntroductionThis study evaluates the gait analysis obtained by Inetial Measurement Units (IMU) before and after surgical management of Spastic Equino Varus Foot (SEVF) in hemiplegic post-stroke patients and to compare it with the functional results obtained in a monocentric prospective cohort.MethodsPatients with post-stroke SEVF, who underwent surgery in a single hospital between November 2019 and December 2021 were included. The follow-up duration was 6 months and included a functional analysis using Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) and a Gait analysis using an innovative Multidimensional Gait Evaluation using IMU: the semiogram.Results20 patients had a gait analysis preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. 90% (18/20) patients had a functional improvement (GAS T score ≥ 50) and 50% (10/20) had an improvement in walking technique as evidenced by the cessation of the use of a walking aid (WA). In patients with functional improvement and modification of WA the change in the semiogram area was + 9.5%, sd = 27.5%, and it was + 15.4%, sd = 28%. In the group with functional improvement without change of WA. For the 3 experiences (two patients) with unfavorable results, the area under the curve changed by + 2.3%, -10.2% and − 9.5%. The measurement of the semiogram area weighted by average speed demonstrated very good reproducibility (ICC(1, 3) = 0.80).DiscussionIMUs appear to be a promising solution for the assessment of post-stroke hemiplegic patients who have undergone SEVF surgery. They can provide a quantified, objective, reliable in individual longitudinal follow up automated gait analysis solution for routine clinical use. Combined with a functional scale such as the GAS, they can provide a global analysis of the effect of surgery.

Intestinal Barrier Impairment, Preservation, and Repair: An Update.

Our objective was to review published studies of the intestinal barrier and permeability, the deleterious effects of dietary components (particularly fat), the impact of altered intestinal permeability in disease models and human diseases, the role of the microbiome and epigenomics in control of barrier function, and the opportunities to restore normal barrier function with dietary interventions and products of the microbiota. We conducted a literature review including the following keywords alone or in combination: intestinal barrier, permeability, microbiome, epigenomics, diet, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, probiotics. Intestinal permeability is modified by a diet including fat, which increases permeability, and nutrients such as fiber, glutamine, zinc, vitamin D, polyphenols, emulsifiers, and anthocyanins, which decrease permeability. There is significant interaction of the microbiome and barrier function, including the inflammatory of luminal/bacterial antigens, and anti-inflammatory effects of commensals or probiotics and their products, including short-chain fatty acids. Epigenomic modification of barrier functions are best illustrated by effects on junction proteins or inflammation. Detailed documentation of the protective effects of diet, probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiota is provided. intestinal permeability is a critical factor in protection against gastrointestinal diseases and is impacted by nutrients that preserve or heal and repair the barrier and nurture anti-inflammatory effects.