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1.
Relevant mycotoxins in oil crops, vegetable oils, de-oiled cake and meals: Occurrence, control, and recent advances in elimination.
Ji, J, Wang, D, Wang, Y, Hou, J
Mycotoxin research. 2024;(1):45-70
Abstract
Mycotoxins in agricultural commodities have always been a concern due to their negative impacts on human and livestock health. Issues associated with quality control, hot and humid climate, improper storage, and inappropriate production can support the development of fungus, causing oil crops to suffer from mycotoxin contamination, which in turn migrates to the resulting oil, de-oiled cake and meals during the oil processing. Related research which supports the development of multi-mycotoxin prevention programs has resulted in satisfactory mitigation effects, mainly in the pre-harvest stage. Nevertheless, preventive actions are unlikely to avoid the occurrence of mycotoxins completely, so removal strategies may still be necessary to protect consumers. Elimination of mycotoxin has been achieved broadly through the physical, biological, or chemical course. In view of the steadily increasing volume of scientific literature regarding mycotoxins, there is a need for ongoing integrated knowledge systems. This work revisited the knowledge of mycotoxins affecting oilseeds, food oils, cake, and meals, focusing more on their varieties, toxicity, and preventive strategies, including the methods adopted in the decontamination, which supplement the available information.
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2.
Join the green team: Inducers of plant immunity in the plant disease sustainable control toolbox.
Zhu, F, Cao, MY, Zhang, QP, Mohan, R, Schar, J, Mitchell, M, Chen, H, Liu, F, Wang, D, Fu, ZQ
Journal of advanced research. 2024;:15-42
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crops are constantly attacked by various pathogens. These pathogenic microorganisms, such as fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, threaten global food security by causing detrimental crop diseases that generate tremendous quality and yield losses worldwide. Chemical pesticides have undoubtedly reduced crop damage; however, in addition to increasing the cost of agricultural production, the extensive use of chemical pesticides comes with environmental and social costs. Therefore, it is necessary to vigorously develop sustainable disease prevention and control strategies to promote the transition from traditional chemical control to modern green technologies. Plants possess sophisticated and efficient defense mechanisms against a wide range of pathogens naturally. Immune induction technology based on plant immunity inducers can prime plant defense mechanisms and greatly decrease the occurrence and severity of plant diseases. Reducing the use of agrochemicals is an effective way to minimize environmental pollution and promote agricultural safety. AIM OF REVIEW The purpose of this workis to offer valuable insights into the current understanding and future research perspectives of plant immunity inducers and their uses in plant disease control, ecological and environmental protection, and sustainable development of agriculture. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW In this work, we have introduced the concepts of sustainable and environment-friendly concepts of green disease prevention and control technologies based on plant immunity inducers. This article comprehensively summarizes these recent advances, emphasizes the importance of sustainable disease prevention and control technologies for food security, and highlights the diverse functions of plant immunity inducers-mediated disease resistance. The challenges encountered in the potential applications of plant immunity inducers and future research orientation are also discussed.
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3.
Current status of weight bias and stigma in pediatrics and the need for greater focus on populations at risk.
Waldrop, SW, Wang, D, Kancherla, D, Stanford, FC
Current opinion in pediatrics. 2024;(1):42-48
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Obesity is one of the most common pediatric chronic conditions in the United States, affecting approximately 20% of American youth and is more common amongst Black, Latino, and Indigenous and low socioeconomic populations. The condition places children and adolescents at increased risk of physical and mental health conditions partly mediated by the weight bias and stigmatization experienced during the potentially vulnerable periods of childhood and adolescence. RECENT FINDINGS Weight bias and the resulting stigma are pervasive in society. Children have been shown to internalize this bias and its devaluation, which have been shown to contribute to worsening metabolic and mental health outcomes independently. Studies suggest weight stigmatization more adversely affects Black, Latino, and Indigenous children, suggesting the potential for adverse synergistic effects of these historical biases on such youth. SUMMARY Addressing childhood obesity successfully across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic lines requires addressing weight bias and stigma. Steps toward this end include collaborative efforts to promote cross-cultural competence and upstander bias education and training for those who care for children, person-centered communication, and a culture of inclusivity across governmental, healthcare, educational, entertainment, and advertising sectors.
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The effects of prenatal and postnatal high-dose vitamin B-12 supplementation on human milk vitamin B-12: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Tanzania.
Wang, D, Shahab-Ferdows, S, Lweno, ON, Hampel, D, Method, B, Yelverton, CA, Nguyen, CH, Aboud, S, Allen, LH, Fawzi, WW
The American journal of clinical nutrition. 2024;(3):730-739
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin B-12 status in human milk (HM) has critical implications for infant growth and development. Few studies have separately evaluated the effects of prenatal and postnatal maternal high-dose vitamin B-12 supplementation on HM vitamin B-12 concentration. OBJECTIVES This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of prenatal and postnatal vitamin B-12 supplementation on HM vitamin B-12 at 6 wk and 7 mo postpartum. METHODS Pregnant women were enrolled in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, between 2001 and 2004. From recruitment (12-27 weeks of gestation) through 6 wk postpartum, participants were randomly assigned to daily oral multiple micronutrient supplementation or placebo. From 6 wk to 18 mo postpartum, a subset of participants was randomly assigned to a postnatal supplement or placebo. The supplement included 50 μg/d of vitamin B-12 and various other vitamins. HM vitamin B-12 concentrations were analyzed at 6 wk and 7 mo postpartum for 412 participants. RESULTS The prevalence of HM vitamin B-12 of <310 pmol/L was 73.3% and 68.4% at 6 wk and 7 mo postpartum, respectively. Prenatal supplementation increased HM vitamin B-12 concentration (percent difference: 34.4; 95% CI: 17.0, 54.5; P < 0.001) at 6 wk; this effect was not present at 7 mo. Postnatal supplementation increased HM vitamin B-12 concentration (percent difference: 15.9; 95% CI: 1.91, 31.9; P = 0.025) at 7 mo. Effect modification between prenatal and postnatal supplementation on HM vitamin B-12 status at 7 mo was found, with the effects of prenatal and postnatal supplements more pronounced among those receiving control during the other period; the prenatal supplement had a greater effect with postnatal control, and the postnatal supplement had a greater effect with prenatal control. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal maternal vitamin B-12 supplementation has benefits on short-term HM status, and postnatal maternal vitamin B-12 supplementation has benefits on long-term HM status. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00197548. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00197548.
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An insight to treat cardiovascular diseases through phytochemicals targeting PPAR-α.
Sharma, S, Sharma, D, Dhobi, M, Wang, D, Tewari, D
Molecular and cellular biochemistry. 2024;(3):707-732
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) belonging to the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily is a promising target for CVDs which mechanistically improves the production of high-density lipid as well as inhibit vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. PPAR-α mainly interferes with adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase, and nuclear factor-κB pathways to protect against cardiac complications. Natural products/extracts could serve as a potential therapeutic strategy in CVDs for targeting PPAR-α with broad safety margins. In recent years, the understanding of naturally derived PPAR-α agonists has considerably improved; however, the information is scattered. In vitro and in vivo studies on acacetin, apigenin, arjunolic acid, astaxanthin, berberine, resveratrol, vaticanol C, hispidulin, ginsenoside Rb3, and genistein showed significant effects in CVDs complications by targeting PPAR-α. With the aim of demonstrating the tremendous chemical variety of natural products targeting PPAR-α in CVDs, this review provides insight into various natural products that can work to prevent CVDs by targeting the PPAR-α receptor along with their detailed mechanism.
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Unveiling terahertz wave stress effects and mechanisms in Pinellia ternata: Challenges, insights, and future directions.
Wang, D, Zheng, J, Sarsaiya, S, Jin, L, Chen, J
Physiologia plantarum. 2024;(1):e14195
Abstract
This review aims to elucidate the intricate effects and mechanisms of terahertz (THz) wave stress on Pinellia ternata, providing valuable insights into plant responses. The primary objective is to highlight the imperative for future research dedicated to comprehending THz wave impacts across plant structures, with a specific focus on the molecular intricacies governing root system structure and function, from shoots to roots. Notably, this review highlights the accelerated plant growth induced by THz waves, especially in conjunction with other environmental stressors, and the subsequent alterations in cellular homeostasis, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an increase in brassinosteroids. Brassinosteroids are explored for their dual role as toxic by-products of stress metabolism and vital signal transduction molecules in plant responses to abiotic stresses. The paper further investigates the spatio-temporal regulation and long-distance transport of phytohormones, including growth hormone, cytokinin, and abscisic acid (ABA), which significantly influence the growth and development of P. ternata under THz wave stress. With a comprehensive review of Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Brassinosteroid Insensitive (BRI) homeostasis and signalling under THz wave stress, the article elucidates the current understanding of BRI involvement in stress perception, stress signalling, and domestication response regulation. Additionally, it underscores the importance of spatio-temporal regulation and long-distance transport of key plant hormones, such as growth hormone, cytokinin, and ABA, in determining root growth and development under THz wave stress. The study of how plants perceive and respond to environmental stresses holds fundamental biological significance, and enhancing plant stress tolerance is crucial for promoting sustainable agricultural practices and mitigating the environmental burdens associated with low-tolerance crop cultivation.
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Risk factors for postoperative delirium in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Lu, S, Jiang, Y, Meng, F, Xie, X, Wang, D, Su, Y
Journal of cardiothoracic surgery. 2024;(1):16
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delirium is a common postoperative complication among patients who undergo Stanford Type A aortic dissection (TAAD). It is associated with increased mortality, as well as other serious surgical outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors for delirium in TAAD patients. METHODS Pubmed, Web of science, Embase, the Cochrane Library and CINAHL were searched by computer to collect literatures on risk factors for postoperative delirium (POD) after TAAD. The retrieval period was from the establishment of the database to September 2022. After literature screening, two reviewers independently assessed the quality of the included studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Data were extracted according to standard protocols, and then meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3 software. RESULTS A total of 9 articles, comprising 7 case-control studies and 2 cohort studies, were included in this analysis. The sample size consisted of 2035 patients. POD was associated with increased length of ICU stay (MD 3.24, 95% CI 0.18-6.31, p = 0.04) and length of hospital stay (MD 9.34, 95% CI 7.31-11.37, p < 0.0001) in TAAD patients. Various perioperative risk factors were identified, including age (MD 4.40, 95% CI 2.06-6.73, p = 0.0002), preoperative low hemoglobin levels (MD - 4.44, 95% CI - 7.67 to - 1.20, p = 0.007), body mass index (MD 0.92, 95% CI 0.22-1.63, p = 0.01), history of cardiac surgery (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.20-7.83, p = 0.02), preoperative renal insufficiency (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.04-6.04, p = 0.04), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) duration (MD 19.54, 95% CI 6.34-32.74, p = 0.004), surgery duration (MD 44.88, 95% CI 5.99-83.78, p = 0.02), mechanical ventilation time (SMD 1.14, 95% CI 0.34-1.94, p = 0.005), acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE II) score (MD 2.67, 95% CI 0.37-4.98, p = 0.02), postoperative renal insufficiency (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.40-5.68, p = 0.004), electrolyte disturbance (OR 6.22, 95% CI 3.08-12.54, p < 0.0001) and hypoxemia (OR 3.56, 95% CI 1.70-7.44, p = 0.0007). CONCLUSIONS POD can prolong ICU stay and hospital stay in TAAD patients. This study identified a number of risk factors for POD after TAAD, suggesting the possibility of early identification of high-risk patients using relevant data.
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Curcumin-mediated photodynamic therapy for mild to moderate Acne: A self-controlled split-face randomized study.
Zhang, Y, Wang, D, Liao, C, Liu, X, Zhang, L, Wang, P, Wang, X
Photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy. 2024;:103887
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Curcumin-mediated Photodynamic Therapy (Curcumin-PDT) in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. METHODS In this randomized split-face controlled study, 11 patients with mild to moderate acne were randomly divided into two groups. One side received a single 445 nm LED light exposure of 36 J/cm2, while the other side received Curcumin-PDT. The process of Curcumin-PDT involves the application of a mask containing 1 % curcumin for 20 min, followed by exposure to 445 nm LED light at 36 J/cm². The treatment consists of sessions spaced every 3 days, with a total of 2 treatments per week, administered continuously for 2 weeks. Efficacy assessment and comparison were conducted on both groups of patients before treatment and 2 weeks after the last treatment, and adverse reactions were observed and recorded. RESULTS At the 2-week follow-up after the last treatment, the total lesion clearance rates for Curcumin-PDT and monotherapy light were 54.7 ± 21.5 % and 28.1 ± 19.9 %, respectively (P = 0.001). The clearance rates for non-inflammatory lesions were 32.3 ± 25.7 % and 21.9 ± 14.0 % for Curcumin-PDT and monotherapy light sides (P = 0.252), while for inflammatory lesions, the clearance rates were 59.3 ± 28.2 % and 36.5 ± 21.6 % (P = 0.013). Both groups experienced mild erythema after treatment, which subsided within 1-2 h. Two patients developed mild localized pigmentation, which self-resolved after 1 month of follow-up. Both groups did not exhibit edema, crust formation, scaling, pigment reduction, or scarring. CONCLUSION Curcumin-PDT can be considered a safe and effective method for the treatment of mild to moderate acne.
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Potential Roles of Nr4a3-Mediated Inflammation in Immunological and Neurological Diseases.
He, S, Jiang, W, Jiang, B, Yu, C, Zhao, G, Li, Y, Qi, L, Zhang, J, Wang, D
Molecular neurobiology. 2024
Abstract
As a protein of the orphan nuclear receptor Nr4a family, Nr4a3 has no identified natural ligands. However, its biological activity can be mediated by inducing conformational changes through interactions with specific certain small molecules and receptors. Nr4a3 is activated as an early stress factor under various pathological conditions and plays a regulatory role in various tissues and cells, participating in processes such as cell differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, and homeostasis. At present, research on the role of Nr4a3 in the pathophysiology of inflammation is considerably limited, especially with respect to its role in the central nervous system (CNS). In this review, we discuss the role of Nr4a3 in multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, retinopathy, Parkinson's disease, and other CNS diseases. This review shows that Nr4a3 has considerable potential as a therapeutic target in the treatment of CNS diseases. We provide a theoretical basis for the targeted therapy of CNS diseases and neuroinflammation, among other conditions.
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The roles of nuclear receptors in cholesterol metabolism and reverse cholesterol transport in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Li, Z, Zheng, D, Zhang, T, Ruan, S, Li, N, Yu, Y, Peng, Y, Wang, D
Hepatology communications. 2024;(1)
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Abstract
As the most prevalent chronic liver disease globally, NAFLD encompasses a pathological process that ranges from simple steatosis to NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC, closely associated with numerous extrahepatic diseases. While the initial etiology was believed to be hepatocyte injury caused by lipid toxicity from accumulated triglycerides, recent studies suggest that an imbalance of cholesterol homeostasis is of greater significance. The role of nuclear receptors in regulating liver cholesterol homeostasis has been demonstrated to be crucial. This review summarizes the roles and regulatory mechanisms of nuclear receptors in the 3 main aspects of cholesterol production, excretion, and storage in the liver, as well as their cross talk in reverse cholesterol transport. It is hoped that this review will offer new insights and theoretical foundations for the study of the pathogenesis and progression of NAFLD and provide new research directions for extrahepatic diseases associated with NAFLD.