Pulsed Field Research Articles

Lipid profile of blood serum of chickens under conditions of long-term exposure to extremely low frequency variable pulsed electromagnetic field

It has been proven that electromagnetic fields (EMF) of various intensities have various effects on living organisms – from a therapeutic effect to the appearance of various functional disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pattern of long-term continuous exposure of poultry with extremely low frequency variable pulsed electromagnetic field (ELF-PEMF) of weak intensity on indicators of lipid metabolism in chickens. 150–day-old Tetra X breed chickens were irradiated with ELF-PEMF at a frequency of 8 Hz for about 30 minutes for 174 days. The irradiation regime of experimental groups 1 and 2 was continuous, and in groups 3 and 4 it was alternated with weekly breaks. In 1 experimental group, poultry was fed according to the basic diet with a protein content increased by 10–15 %, and in 2 – with a protein content reduced by 10–15 %. In the control group of non-irradiated poultry, the protein content in the diet corresponded to generally accepted norms. The results of the experiment proved that the irradiation regimes of ELF-PEMF selected by us have an effect on lipid metabolism in the body of Tetra X breed chickens. On the 112th day of the experiment, regardless of the used regimes of irradiation of chickens with ELF-PEMF and the protein level in the diet, in the blood serum of the experimental groups, compared to the control, an increase in the level of free triacylglycerols by 1.56–2.76 times was found; cholesterol level – by 1.04–1.39 times; of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) – by 1.24–1.84 times and the reduction of atherogenic index – by 1.41–1.73 times, which is predicted to have a positive effect on their health and productive qualities. Meanwhile, during longer exposure of chickens to ELF-PEMF, the level of triacylglycerols in the blood serum of experimental groups of chickens did not differ significantly from the indicators of non-irradiated poultry (control group). In general, by selecting different modes of irradiation with ELF-PEMF with different supply of protein in the rations, it is possible to influence the indicators of lipid metabolism of Tetra X breed chickens.

Use of nonlinear pulsed magnetic fields for spatial encoding in magnetic resonance imaging

This study examines the use of nonlinear magnetic field coils for spatial encoding in magnetic resonance imaging. Existing theories on imaging with such coils share a complex reconstruction process that originates from a suboptimal signal interpretation in the spatial-frequency domain (k-space). In this study, a new solution to this problem is proposed, namely a two-step reconstruction process, in which in the first step, the image signal is converted into a frequency spectrum, and in the second step, the spectrum, which represents the distorted image, is geometrically and intensity corrected to obtain an undistorted image. This theory has been verified by numerical simulations and experimentally using a straight wire as a coil model for an extremely nonlinear magnetic field. The results of this study facilitate the use of simple encoding coil designs that can feature low inductance, allowing for much faster switching times and higher magnetic field gradients.

Sustainable Valorization of Industrial Cherry Pomace: A Novel Cascade Approach Using Pulsed Electric Fields and Ultrasound Assisted-Extraction.

In this study, a two-stage cascade extraction process utilizing pulsed electric fields (PEF) (3 kV/cm, 10 kJ/kg) for initial extraction, followed by ultrasound (US) (200 W, 20 min)-assisted extraction (UAE) in a 50% (v/v) ethanol-water mixture (T = 50 °C, t = 60 min), was designed for the efficient release of valuable intracellular compounds from industrial cherry pomace. The extracted compounds were evaluated for total phenolic content (TPC), flavonoid content (FC), total anthocyanin content (TAC), and antioxidant activity (FRAP), and were compared with conventional solid-liquid extraction (SLE). Results showed that the highest release of bioactive compounds occurred in the first stage, which was attributed to the impact of PEF pre-treatment, resulting in significant increases in TPC (79%), FC (79%), TAC (83%), and FRAP values (80%) of the total content observed in the post-cascade PEF-UAE process. The integration of UAE into the cascade process further augmented the extraction efficiency, yielding 21%, 49%, 56%, and 26% increases for TPC, FC, TAC, and FRAP, respectively, as compared to extracts obtained through a second-stage conventional SLE. HPLC analysis identified neochlorogenic acid, 4-p-coumaroylquinic, and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside as the predominant phenolic compounds in both untreated and cascade-treated cherry pomace extracts, and no degradation of the specific compounds occurred upon PEF and US application. SEM analysis revealed microstructural changes in cherry pomace induced by PEF and UAE treatments, enhancing the porosity and facilitating the extraction process. The study suggests the efficiency of the proposed cascade PEF-UAE extraction approach for phenolic compounds from industrial cherry pomace with potential applications to other plant-based biomasses.

Сушка зернового материала с предварительной обработкой слаботочным плазменным каналом искрового разряда

The food industry and agriculture use such electrophysical technologies as ozonation, pulsed electric field, and low-temperature plasma. They increase the shelf-life of food products, as well as help to advance food processing. This article features pretreatment with a low-voltage spark-discharge plasma channel as a means to increase the efficiency of grain drying.
 The grain material involved three samples of soft wheat seeds. Sample 1 was subjected to direct contact with the electrodes while sample 2 underwent treatment on a dielectric substrate. The control remained untreated. The kinetics of grain-drying in the open air was studied using a thermal agent at 110°C after pre-treatment with a low-voltage spark-discharge plasma channel. This experiment also involved scanning electron microscopy tools to detect changes in surface structure. 
 The electron microscopy showed that the dielectric substrate accelerated moisture removal, probably as a result of the emerging surface effects that developed a new continuum in the grain structure. This treatment made it possible to reduce the drying time by 15–25%, compared to the control sample. The drying rate curves demonstrated acceleration in the initial period, associated with additional electroosmotic forces and changes in the absorption properties. The samples treated with low-voltage spark-discharge plasma channel showed a 20% reduction in total energy consumption.
 Electrophysical technology based on a low-voltage spark-discharge plasma channel proved to be an effective pre-drying procedure. Further research is needed to scale the technology in a flow mode and to identify its effect on shelf-life.

Current Evidence Using Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields in Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review.

(1) Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impacts patients' quality of life and negatively affects public healthcare costs. The aim of this systematic review is to identify the effectiveness of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) in OA treatment across different anatomical districts, determining pain reduction and overall improvement in the patient's quality of life. (2) Methods: In this systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for randomized controlled trials involving patients with osteoarthritis undergoing PEMF therapy. Seventeen studies (1197 patients) were included. (3) Results: PEMF therapy demonstrated positive outcomes across various anatomical districts, primarily in knee osteoarthritis. Pain reduction, assessed through VAS and WOMAC scores, showed significant improvement (60% decrease in VAS, 42% improvement in WOMAC). The treatment duration varied (15 to 90 days), with diverse PEMF devices used. Secondary outcomes included improvements in quality of life, reduced medication usage, and enhanced physical function. (4) Conclusions: Diverse PEMF applications revealed promising results, emphasizing pain reduction and improvement in the quality of life of patients. The variability in the treatment duration and device types calls for further investigation. This review informs future research directions and potential advancements in optimizing PEMF therapies for diverse osteoarthritic manifestations.

Evaluation of pulsed electric field and high-pressure processing on the overall quality of refrigerated Concord grape juice

Consumers' demands for minimally processed juices are prompting the expansion of refrigerated, cold-pressed juice market. To develop a nutritious, cold-pressed Concord grape juice, high pressure processing (HPP, 600 MPa, 3 min, 5 °C) and pulsed electric field (PEF, 0.85 kV/cm, 300 pulses) were utilized and the resultant juice was compared with the heat treated (HT, 63 °C, 3 min) juice. HPP was able to preserve the physicochemical properties, reduce microbial load and extend the shelf-life of juice under refrigeration. PEF treatment significantly increased the juice yield (p < 0.01), antioxidants contents and antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). Macroscopic observation indicated that the skin cell structure was altered after PEF. PEF + HPP treated juice had significantly higher purchase intent, appearance and aroma likings (p < 0.05). Combination of PEF and HPP can produce a superior cold-pressed Concord grape juice that meets consumers’ demands for fresh and nutritious fruit juices.

New developments in cosmetic applications of electromagnetic fields: Client and occupational hazard assessment.

Energy-based devices are used to improve features of appearance for aesthetic reasons while avoiding more invasive methods. Examples of treatment targets are the reduction of wrinkles, sagging, unwanted skin lesions, body hair and excess fatty tissue, and the enhancement of muscle tissue. One treatment modality is the use of electromagnetic fields (EMF, 0‒300 GHz). The present work aims to give an up-to-date survey of cosmetic applications of EMF for professional use with an assessment of client and worker exposure and possible adverse effects. A systematic search was conducted for peer-reviewed articles (2007-2022), patents, premarket notifications, manufacturer data, and adverse effects reports. Five categories of cosmetic EMF device with increasing frequency were identified: sinusoid low frequency magnetic fields for lipolysis; pulsed low frequency magnetic fields for skin rejuvenation; pulsed low frequency magnetic fields for muscle building; radiofrequency EMF for lipolysis or skin rejuvenation; microwaves for hair removal or hyperhidrosis. In the vicinity of the last four device categories, there is a potential for exceeding the occupational exposure limits in the European Union EMF Directive, which could lead to nerve or muscle stimulation, burns or overheating. There are also potential hazards for clients or workers wearing active or passive medical devices. The severity of reported adverse effects increases with EMF frequency.

2D Time-Domain Spectroscopy for Determination of Energy and Momentum Relaxation Rates of Hydrogen-Like Donor States in Germanium.

We present measurements of the coherence times of excited states of hydrogen-like arsenic impurities in germanium (Ge:As) using a table-top two-dimensional time-domain spectroscopy (2D-TDS) system. We show that this laboratory system is capable of resolving the coherence lifetimes of atomic-like excited levels of impurity centers in semiconductors, such as those used in solid-state quantum information technologies, on a subpicosecond time scale. By fitting the coherent nonlinear response of the system with the known intracenter transition frequencies, we are able to monitor coherent population transfer and decay of the transitions from the 2p0 and 2p± states for different low excitation pulse fields. Furthermore, by examining the off-diagonal resonances in the 2D frequency-domain map, we are able to identify coherences between excited electronic states that are not visible via conventional single-frequency pump-probe or Hahn-echo measurements.

Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Ischemic Heart Disease: What Is Known and New Perspectives.

This review aims to evaluate current evidence regarding ventricular tachycardia ablation in patients with ischemic heart disease and explore novel approaches currently developing to improve procedural and long-term outcomes. Recently published trials (PARTITA, PAUSE-SCD, and SURVIVE-VT) have demonstrated the prognostic benefit of prophylactic ventricular tachycardia ablation compared to current clinical practice. Advanced cardiac imaging provides a valuable pre-procedural evaluation of the arrhythmogenic substrate, identifying ablation targets non-invasively. Advanced cardiac mapping techniques allow to better characterize arrhythmogenic substrate during ablation procedure. Emerging technologies like pulsed field ablation and ultra-low temperature cryoablation show promise in ventricular tachycardia ablation. Advancements in mapping techniques, ablation technologies, and pre-procedural cardiac imaging offer promise for improving ventricular tachycardia ablation outcomes in ischemic heart disease.

Evaluation of genetic response of mesenchymal stem cells to nanosecond pulsed electric fields by whole transcriptome sequencing.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulated by various exogenous signals have been applied extensively in regenerative medicine research. Notably, nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs), characterized by short duration and high strength, significantly influence cell phenotypes and regulate MSCs differentiation via multiple pathways. Consequently, we used transcriptomics to study changes in messenger RNA (mRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and circular RNA expression during nsPEFs application. To explore gene expression profiles and potential transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in MSCs pretreated with nsPEFs. The impact of nsPEFs on the MSCs transcriptome was investigated through whole transcriptome sequencing. MSCs were pretreated with 5-pulse nsPEFs (100 ns at 10 kV/cm, 1 Hz), followed by total RNA isolation. Each transcript was normalized by fragments per kilobase per million. Fold change and difference significance were applied to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were performed to elucidate gene functions, complemented by quantitative polymerase chain reaction verification. In total, 263 DEGs were discovered, with 92 upregulated and 171 downregulated. DEGs were predominantly enriched in epithelial cell proliferation, osteoblast differentiation, mesenchymal cell differentiation, nuclear division, and wound healing. Regarding cellular components, DEGs are primarily involved in condensed chromosome, chromosomal region, actin cytoskeleton, and kinetochore. From aspect of molecular functions, DEGs are mainly involved in glycosaminoglycan binding, integrin binding, nuclear steroid receptor activity, cytoskeletal motor activity, and steroid binding. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction confirmed targeted transcript regulation. Our systematic investigation of the wide-ranging transcriptional pattern modulated by nsPEFs revealed the differential expression of 263 mRNAs, 2 miRNAs, and 65 lncRNAs. Our study demonstrates that nsPEFs may affect stem cells through several signaling pathways, which are involved in vesicular transport, calcium ion transport, cytoskeleton, and cell differentiation.

Neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy is improved with a novel pulsed electric field technology in an immune-cold murine model.

Chemo-immunotherapy uses combined systemic therapies for resectable and unresectable tumors. This approach is gaining clinical momentum, but survival increases leave considerable room for improvement. A novel form of Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) ablation combines focal tissue destruction with immune activation in preclinical settings. The PEFs induce lethal cell damage without requiring thermal processes, leaving cellular proteins intact. This affords PEF a favorable safety profile, improved antigenicity, and significant immunostimulatory damage-associated molecular pattern release compared to other focal therapies. Preclinical investigations demonstrate a combinatorial benefit of PEF with immunostimulation. This study evaluates whether this proprietary PEF therapy induces an immunostimulatory effect sufficient to augment systemic neoadjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy to reverse metastatic disease in an immune-cold murine tumor model. To determine whether PEF improves a neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy standard-of-care, partial PEF ablation was delivered to orthotopically inoculated 4T1 metastatic tumors in addition to combinations of cisplatin chemotherapy and/or αPD-1 immunotherapy, followed by resection. In addition, to determine whether PEF combined with chemo-immunotherapy improves local and metastatic response in unresectable populations, partial PEF ablation was added to chemo-immunotherapy in mice that did not receive resection. Blood cytokines and flow cytometry evaluated immune response. Partial PEF ablation generates an immunostimulatory tumor microenvironment, increases systemic immune cell populations, slows tumor growth, and prolongs survival relative to neoadjuvant systemic therapies-alone. These data suggest the addition of this proprietary PEF locoregional therapy may synergize with systemic standard-of-care paradigms to improve outcomes with potential or demonstrated metastatic disease in both resectable and unresectable patient cohorts.

A high‐power electromagnetic source for disabling improvised explosive devices

AbstractUltra‐wideband (UWB) microwave sources driven by specialised pulsed power generators have experienced a considerable development in the last decade due to their wide domain of new applications such as defence or counter‐terrorism activity. The authors present the main findings of a research dedicated to the development of a pulsed power‐driven electromagnetic field source for disabling improvised explosive devices (IED). The pulsed power generator driving the source is a 13‐stage compact Marx producing voltage pulses reaching an amplitude of 0.5 MV, with a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of up to 100 Hz. The generator is coupled to a bipolar pulse forming line, providing bipolar pulses with a dV/dt of around 1.6 MV/ns. This pulsed power system feeds an array composed of 16 Koshelev‐type UWB antennas through an impedance matching transformer. The resulting electromagnetic source is capable to produce pulsed electric fields (PEFs) having a figure‐of‐merit (FOM) of 1 MV. First, practical experiments were carried out to study the effects of the PEFs on targets. The targets used in the present study are M2B type flashbulbs, known to have the same susceptibility as the US army M6 detonator. Different configurations of wires (shielded, twisted, etc) with different lengths were used in connecting items inside these targets. The tests were performed by placing the flashbulbs at different distances to determine the essential parameters (i.e., amplitude, duration, and frequency range) of the PEFs required to trigger them. An overview of the experimental campaign and the main findings are also presented followed by conclusions.

Meta-analysis of pulsed-field ablation versus cryoablation for atrial fibrillation.

The available data on the treatment strategy of pulsed field ablation (PFA) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is limited. This study aims to provide a comparative analysis of the efficacy, safety, and procedural efficiency between PFA and cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for AF. We conducted a comprehensive search of the EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases to identify trials comparing PFA with CBA for AF from their inception until December 2023. The odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD), along with a 95% confidence interval (CI), were utilized as measures of treatment effect. The analysis included 15 eligible trials with a total enrollment of 1880 patients. No significant differences were found in recurrent atrial arrhythmia (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.64, 1.07) or periprocedural complications (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.46, 1.30) between the two ablation techniques examined in this study. However, the PFA technique demonstrated a significantly shorter procedure time (MD -7.17, 95% CI -13.60, -0.73), but a longer fluoroscopy time (MD 2.53, 95% CI 0.87, 4.19). Similarly, PFA was found to be significantly associated with a decreased incidence of phrenic nerve palsy (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.07, 0.59), but an increased incidence of cardiac tamponade (OR 4.07, 95% CI 1.15, 14.39). Moreover, there was a significantly higher release of troponin with PFA compared to CBA (MD 470.28, 95% CI 18.89, 921.67), while the increase in S100 protein and heart rate was significantly lower with PFA than with CBA (MD -64.41, 95% CI -105.46, -17.36), (MD -8.76, 95% CI -15.12, -2.40). The utilization of PFA provides a safer, time-saving, and tissue-specific procedure compared to CBA, while maintaining comparable success rates. This has the potential to enhance procedural efficiency and optimize resource utilization in clinical practice. These findings underscore the feasibility and promise of PFA as an alternative technique for PVI in patients with AF.

Sustainable food chains designed for optimised resource use: Optimising downscaled food chains for sustainable resource use: A comprehensive case study on tomato juice

As consumers increasingly prefer locally sourced food, there is a growing movement towards optimising resource use and reducing emissions in supply chains. While Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs) traditionally emphasise social and institutional proximity, this study strategically addresses the environmental impact by implementing innovative technologies on a smaller scale. This article explores the possibility of implementing a mobile processing unit (FOX unit) that utilises two innovative technologies, one for gentle juice extraction (spiral filter) and the other for preservation of freshly pressed products (pulsed electric fields - PEF). The study investigates a solution that could streamline the supply chain between producers and consumers by offering a decentralised and modular approach to processing. Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), tomato juice production is compared under traditional thermal pasteurisation (Scenario 1) and the FOX unit (Scenario 2). This study also assesses the impacts of centralising production and shipping raw materials between countries (Scenario 3), considering the FOX unit as part of the evaluation. Further analysis includes relocating this unit to the countries of raw material origin (Scenario 4). Data retrieved from literature, databases, and practical trials, revealed that tomato juice production with the FOX unit led to a 15% reduction in environmental impact across all categories compared to traditional thermal pasteurisation. When relocating the unit, the overall environmental impact decreased as the volume of processed raw materials increased, reaching levels comparable to the results obtained from shipping 1 ton of raw material to a centralised location in various studied countries (with variations in midpoint categories depending on the location, such as 200 tons in France, 15 tons in Italy, and 45 tons in Spain), albeit with variation in the categories. This study highlights the potential environmental benefits of integrating the FOX unit in SFSCs, offering valuable insights for sustainable food supply chain practices.

Pulsed shortwave electromagnetic field therapy increases quality of life in canines with symptoms of osteoarthritics.

Joint stiffness, lameness and reduced activity levels are common inflammatory responses observed in canines and have significant impact on quality of life (QOL). The symptoms are often ascribed to osteoarthritis (OA), for which the standard treatment is systemic anti-inflammatories, but pharmacologic intervention can have significant short-term and long-term side effects. Test the efficacy of a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared pulsed shortwave therapy (PSWT) device as a means to modulate vagus nerve activity and initiate a systemic anti-inflammatory response to determine its ability to improve functionality and the QOL of canines with inflammatory symptoms commonly associated with OA. A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled 14-day study of 60 dogs with a presumptive prior diagnosis of OA in at least one limb joint. Two outcomes assessing changes in the dog's QOL and functionality were measured: subjectively determined changes in eight behaviours associated with discomfort and objectively determined changes in passive range of motion (PROM). The device was secured near the cervico-thoracic region of the dog's spine. PROM measures were taken at baseline and at the end of study. Behavioural measures were taken daily. Forty-nine animals completed the study. No negative side effects were reported. Average subjective discomfort scores for the treatment group (N=26) were reduced from 3.74 to 2.10 (44%), compared to no improvement in the placebo group (N=23) over the study period (p=0.0001). Average PROM scores increased by 5.51 (4.59-6.23) degrees relative to the placebo group (p<0.01). Ninety-six per cent of the treatment group showed either increased PROM or improved behavioural changes or both, compared to 4% for the placebo group (p<0.01). Most changes occurred within the first 8 days of treatment. PSWT applied at the level of the cervico-thoracic spine to target the vagus nerve may have the potential to improve QOL in dogs manifesting behaviours commonly associated with OA.

Improving the Composition and Bioactivity of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Bean Shell Extract by Choline Chloride-Lactic Acid Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent Extraction Assisted by Pulsed Electric Field Pre-Treatment.

An environmentally friendly method for the release of cocoa bean shell (CBS) extracts is proposed in this paper. This work aims to investigate the effect of pulsed electric field (PEF) pre-treatment on subsequent solid-liquid extraction (SLE) of metabolites with choline chloride-lactic acid natural deep eutectic solvent (NaDES) and bioactivity of cocoa bean shell (CBS) extract. Two different media for PEF application were evaluated: water and chlorine chloride-lactic acid. Total polyphenols (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), individual major compounds, and antioxidant and antibacterial activity of CBS extracts were assessed. The performance of PEF-assisted extraction was compared with SLE and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The proposed method improved the release of TPC up to 45% and TFC up to 48% compared with the conventional extraction. The CBS extract showed medium growth inhibition of Escherichia coli and high growth inhibition of Salmonella sp, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. Thus, an extract with enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial properties was obtained.

Pulsed field ablation technology for pulmonary vein and left atrial posterior wall isolation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation.

Limited data exist on pulsed-field ablation (PFA) in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) undergoing left atrial posterior wall isolation (LAPWI). The Advanced TecHnologies For SuccEssful AblatioN of AF in Clinical Practice (ATHENA) prospective registry included consecutive patients referred for PeAF catheter ablation at 9 Italian centers, treated with the FARAPULSETM-PFA system. The primary efficacy and safety study endpoints were the acute LAPWI rate, freedom from arrhythmic recurrences and the incidence of major periprocedural complications. Patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) alone, PWI + LAPWI and redo procedures were compared. Among 249 patients, 21.7% had long-standing PeAF, 79.5% were male; mean age was 63 ± 9 years. LAPWI was performed in 57.6% of cases, with 15.3% being redo procedures. Median skin-to-skin times (PVI-only 68 [60-90] vs. PVI + LAPWI 70 [59-88] mins) did not differ between groups. 45.8% LAPWI cases were approached with a 3D-mapping system, and 37.3% with intracardiac echocardiography. LAPWI was achieved in all patients by means of PFA alone, in 88.8% cases at first pass. LAPWI was validated either by an Ultrahigh-density mapping system or by recording electrical activity + pacing maneuvers. No major complications occurred, while 2.4% minor complications were detected. During a median follow-up of 273 [191-379] days, 41 patients (16.5%) experienced an arrhythmic recurrence after the 90-day blanking period, with a mean time to recurrence of 223 ± 100 days and no differences among ablation strategies. LAPWI with PFA demonstrates feasibility, rapidity, and safety in real-world practice, offering a viable alternative for PeAF patients. LAPWI is achievable even with a fluoroscopy-only method and does not significantly extend overall procedural times.

Contemporary catheter ablation of complex atrial tachycardias after prior atrial fibrillation ablation: pulsed field vs. radiofrequency current energy ablation guided by high-density mapping.

Catheter ablation (CA) of post-ablation left atrial tachycardias (LATs) can be challenging. So far, pulsed field ablation (PFA) has not been compared to standard point-by-point radiofrequency current (RFC) energy for LAT ablation. To compare efficacy of PFA vs. RFC in patients undergoing CA for LAT. Consecutive patients undergoing LAT-CA were prospectively enrolled (09/2021-02/2023). After electro-anatomical high-density mapping, ablation with either a pentaspline PFA catheter or RFC was performed. Patients were matched 1:1. Ablation was performed at the assumed critical isthmus site with additional ablation, if necessary. Right atrial tachycardia (RAT) was ablated with RFC. Acute and chronic success were assessed. Fifty-six patients (n = 28 each group, age 70 ± 9 years, 75% male) were enrolled.A total of 77 AT (n = 67 LAT, n = 10 RAT; 77% macroreentries) occurred with n = 32 LAT in the PFA group and n = 35 LAT in the RFC group. Of all LAT, 94% (PFA group) vs. 91% (RFC group) successfully terminated to sinus rhythm or another AT during ablation (P = 1.0). Procedure times were shorter (PFA: 121 ± 41 vs. RFC: 190 ± 44 min, P < 0.0001) and fluoroscopy times longer in the PFA group (PFA: 15 ± 9 vs. RFC: 11 ± 6 min, P = 0.04). There were no major complications. After one-year follow-up, estimated arrhythmia free survival was 63% (PFA group) and 87% (RFC group), [hazard ratio 2.91 (95% CI: 1.11-7.65), P = 0.0473]. Pulsed field ablation of post-ablation LAT using a pentaspline catheter is feasible, safe, and faster but less effective compared to standard RFC ablation after one year of follow-up. Future catheter designs and optimization of the electrical field may further improve practicability and efficacy of PFA for LAT.

Bakery Product Enrichment with Phenolic Compounds as an Unexplored Strategy for the Control of the Maillard Reaction

The Maillard reaction (MR) is one of the main reactions that occurs during the thermal processing of food. It contributes positively to the flavor, aroma, and color of food but also produces harmful by-products, including acrylamide and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Bakery products are major staples consumed daily by people from all walks of life and of all ages; the identification of strategies to hamper acrylamide formation in bread and bread-like products is thus crucial for public health. Several strategies have been proposed to inhibit the MR in food processing, including biochemical approaches such as the use of enzymes; innovative technologies such as ohmic heating, pulsed electric field, high pressure processing, or encapsulation of metal ions; and the chemical modification of reactants, intermediates, or products of MR. Recently, phenolic compounds have been reported to have an inhibitory effect on the formation of harmful by-products resulting from the MR. The aim of this paper is, therefore, to provide a state-of-the-art overview of the use of phenolic compounds in the formulation of bakery products to inhibit the MR. A systematic review of the most up-to-date scientific literature was thus performed. It emerged that the inhibitory action was mainly investigated in bread. Phenolic extracts and powders obtained from plant-based foods have been included in the formulation of bakery products. The effect of pure phenolic standards was also considered.

Effect of electric and electromagnetic fields on energy consumption, texture, and microstructure of dried black garlic

Drying is one of the most energy-intensive food processing technologies and can contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Therefore, novel nonthermal pretreatment methods can be used to affect the plant tissue and decrease the drying time. A pulsed electric field (PEF), direct current electric field (DCEF), and electromagnetic field (EMF) were applied to black garlic cloves which were subsequently subjected to convective pre-drying followed by a vacuum-microwave finishing drying. The effect of these pretreatments on the physical properties, energy consumption, attributes of texture profile analysis (TPA), as well as microstructure determined by the use of X-ray computed tomography is presented. The application of pretreatments reduced the porosity of the material and resulted in an increased hardness compared to the unpretreated sample. Overall, nonthermal pretreatments proved beneficial in reducing the drying time and minimizing the energy consumption as well as greenhouse gas emissions during processing while maintaining a high quality of dried black garlic.