Formulation of a probiotic product using Almond gum

BACKGROUND

The application of probiotics in food has expanded significantly, yet its viability remains a challenge. In response to this issue, this study explores a unique approach. Almond gum, a natural extract from Prunus dulcis, is utilized as the primary carrier matrix for a novel probiotic product featuring Saccharomyces boulardii, a probiotic yeast.

METHODS

This study involves the entrapment of S. boulardii in almond gum through centrifugation (5 min at 1300 × g) and subsequent 24 h drying at 50 °C. Sensory evaluation and other investigations were conducted at different pH levels to assess viability and performance.

RESULTS

Post-drying entrapment efficiency was 83.85%, underscoring the benefits of choosing almond gum as a carrier matrix. Promising results were observed from viability testing conducted in gastric juice (pH 1.2) and in simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8). Matrix stability was assessed by measuring cfu ml-1 following 7 days' storage at different temperatures, complemented by sensory analysis.

CONCLUSION

Almond gum is a promising carrier matrix for probiotic products. Its high entrapment efficiency and its viability under challenging pH conditions demonstrate its efficacy. It is rich in carbohydrates and serves a dual purpose by acting as a prebiotic source, as confirmed through ultraviolet-visible (UV-visible) analysis. The study underscores the potential of this novel approach, providing insights into responses to viability challenges in probiotic food products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

The Impact of Gastric Juice on the Surface Roughness of Surface Sealant-Treated Provisional Restorations

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastroesophageal reflux disease causes gastric acid to enter the oral cavity, leading to mucosal changes and deterioration of dental hard tissues and materials. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the impact of gastric juice on the surface roughness of two types of acrylics used in provisional restorations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acrytemp ® and Temdent acrylic resin discs (10 × 2 mm) totaling 80 were manufactured and divided into eight groups (n = 10). Groups were prepared as follows: Group 1 (Temdent + Universal Polish) (control), Group 2 (Temdent + Universal Polish + Biscover LV), Group 3 (Temdent + Universal Polish + Resin Glaze), Group 4 (Temdent + Universal Polish + Fortify Plus), Group 5 (Acrytemp + Universal Polish) (control), Group 6 (Acrytemp + Universal Polish + Biscover LV), Group 7 (Acrytemp + Universal Polish + Resin Glaze), and Group 8 (Acrytemp + Universal Polish + Fortify Plus). The resin discs were immersed in distilled water for 24 h and in gastric juice (pH = 2) for additional 24 h. The initial and final roughness values of samples were measured and analyzed with non-parametric statistics including Mann-Whitney U-test for pairwise comparison, Kruskall Wallis test for comparing more than two groups, and Wilcoxon signed rank test for within-group comparison (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Surface roughness did not differ significantly between control groups. It notably increased for all samples with surface sealants, both initially and after gastric juice immersion (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Surface sealants noticeably increased the roughness of two types of acrylic resins. After immersing in gastric juice, Group 4 (Temdent + Universal Polish + Fortify Plus) showed the highest roughness, while the untreated control groups remained the smoothest.

Graded diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection using hyperspectral images of gastric juice

Helicobacter pylori is a potential underlying cause of many diseases. Although the Carbon 13 breath test is considered the gold standard for detection, it is high cost and low public accessibility in certain areas limit its widespread use. In this study, we sought to use machine learning and deep learning algorithm models to classify and diagnose H. pylori infection status. We used hyperspectral imaging system to gather gastric juice images and then retrieved spectral feature information between 400 and 1000 nm. Two different data processing methods were employed, resulting in the establishment of one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) datasets. In the binary classification task, the random forest model achieved a prediction accuracy of 83.27% when learning features from 1D data, with a specificity of 84.56% and a sensitivity of 92.31%. In the ternary classification task, the ResNet model learned from 2D data and achieved a classification accuracy of 91.48%.

Extraction and Fractionation of Human Gastric Mucins from Gastric Juice

Mucin, a major component of the mucus, is considered to be one of the principal factors in the physiological defense mechanism of the gastrointestinal mucosa. Measuring the mucin content of human gastric mucus is a useful tool for the assessment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication or the involvement of mucus secretion in various gastroduodenal diseases. Here, we describe a methodology for the isolation of the mucin fraction from human gastric juice and the quantification of mucin.

Comparison of four digestion protocols on the physical characteristics of gastric digesta from cooked couscous using the Human Gastric Simulator

In vitro digestion is widely employed in food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical research, and numerous in vitro gastric digestion protocols have been proposed, with a wide range of experimental conditions. Differences in the simulated gastric fluids (pH, mineral content, enzyme type and enzyme activity) of different digestion protocols may alter the results for the digestion of the same meal. This study aimed to investigate how variations in the gastric secretion rate and composition in four in vitro digestion protocols (Infogest Riddet, Infogest Semi-dynamic, UC Davis and United States Pharmacopeia) impacted the physical properties of the emptied gastric digesta. Cooked couscous was used as a model meal and subjected to simulated gastric digestion using a dynamic gastric model, the Human Gastric Simulator (HGS). The digesta were collected from the outlet of the HGS after 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, or 180 min. The gastric emptying of dry matter, pH, rheological properties, and particle size were evaluated. The digestion protocol significantly influenced the solid content and moisture content of the digesta (p < 0.001), particles per gram of dry matter (p < 0.0001), gastric emptying of dry matter (p < 0.003), shear stress at 0.45 s-1 and consistency coefficient (p < 0.0001). The presence of NaHCO3 in the Infogest Riddet and Infogest Semi-dynamic gastric secretions provided an additional buffering effect and increased the digesta pH during gastric digestion. Similarly, the inclusion of mucin in the UC Davis protocol resulted in a higher flow and viscoelastic properties of the emptied digesta. The highest dilution of gastric content in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) protocol resulted in larger particles emptied from the HGS and the longest gastric emptying half-time of all digestion protocols. These findings provide new insights into the impact of digestion protocols on the digesta properties, which can be beneficial for the design and standardization of in vitro digestion models.

pylori diagnosis: a large, multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori infection is the main cause of the most frequent gastroduodenal diseases. Because its prevalence is decreasing in developed countries, gastric biopsies are negative in several patients. By measuring ammonium in the gastric juice, EndoFaster allows to exclude H. pylori infection during endoscopy. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of device versions working with either 6 ml or 3 ml of gastric juice.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective study involved 12 endoscopic units. During endoscopy, EndoFaster testing was performed and standard five gastric biopsies were taken. The accuracy was calculated by considering histological assessment as the gold standard for H. pylori diagnosis.

RESULTS

Gastric juice analysis was attempted in 1279 patients, but it failed in 131 (15.5%) and in 10 (2.3%), with the 6 ml and the 3 ml device, respectively (P &lt; 0.001). Overall, EndoFaster detected H. pylori infection with an 86.3% sensitivity, 83.3% specificity, 52.7% positive predictive value, 96.6% negative predictive value and 83.8% accuracy. The performance was not affected either by ongoing proton pump inhibitor therapy or a previous H. pylori eradication. No significant difference in accuracy emerged between the two versions of the device.

CONCLUSION

The novel version of the EndoFaster device operating with 3 ml gastric juice may be performed in virtually all patients, and it allows excluding H. pylori infection with a very high accuracy. Gastric biopsies can be avoided in a definite portion of cases without endoscopic lesions or other clinical indications.

Levothyroxine treatment and gastric juice pH in humans: the proof of concept

PURPOSE

Despite the absorption of oral thyroxine (T4) occurs in the small bowel, several patients with gastric disorders show an increased need for T4. In vitro evidence suggested that medium pH variations interfere with T4 dissolution. This study was aimed at finding the proof of concept of a direct relationship between the minimal effective dose of T4 and the actual gastric juice pH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Among 311 consecutively thyroxine-treated patients, 61 bearing Hashimoto's thyroiditis (52 F/9 M; median age = 51 years) who complained persistent dyspepsia and/or upper abdominal symptoms following a noninvasive workup for gastrointestinal disorders, underwent EGDS with multiple biopsies and gastric juice pH measurement. All patients accepted to take thyroxine in fasting conditions, abstaining from eating or drinking for one hour.

RESULTS

Thyroxine requirement increased along with the rising gastric pH (ρ = 0.4229; p = 0.0007). A multivariate analysis revealed that gastric pH was, beside body mass index, the far more important independent variable in determining the effective dose of T4 (p = 0.001). The ROC curve revealed that the pH threshold for an increased thyroxine requirement was at 2.28, being the AUC by 78%. Subdividing patients by the histologic findings, it appeared a significant increase (p = 0.0025) along with the progressive damage of gastric mucosa.

CONCLUSION

The in vivo measurement of gastric pH highlighted its key role in determining the minimal effective dose of oral T4 and may explain the interference of food, of some drugs and gut disorders on levothyroxine treatment.

Long-term effects of simulated gastric juice alternated with brushing on hardness, substance loss, flexural strength and reliability of CAD-CAM monolithic materials

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to evaluate, over a simulated 5-year period, the effect of simulated gastric juice alternated with brushing on CAD-CAM monolithic materials considering microhardness, substance loss, flexural strength, and reliability of the materials.

METHODOLOGY

Blocks from Lava Ultimate (LU), Vita Enamic (VE), IPS Empress CAD (EMP), IPS e.max CAD (EMAX), and Vita Suprinity (VS) were milled into cylinders and sliced into disks. The EMAX and VS were crystallized, and all specimens were polished with silicon carbide papers and allocated as follows: 1) artificial saliva + brushing or 2) simulated gastric juice (0.113% hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution in deionized water, pH 1.2) + brushing, simulating 1, 3, and 5 years of clinical function. Each year of clinical function was simulated by three repetitions of immersion for 3 hours in artificial saliva or simulated gastric juice followed by 1,217 brushing cycles. The microhardness and substance loss were evaluated at baseline (T0) and at each year by using a Vickers hardness tester and an analytical balance. The biaxial flexural strength (BFS) test was performed in a mechanical testing machine at the end of the 5th year. Weibull modulus was calculated from the BFS data.

RESULTS

The microhardness of the LU was not influenced by the treatment, whereas that of the other materials, in certain years, was significantly lower in the gastric juice + brushing groups in comparison with artificial saliva + brushing groups. In general, the materials did not present a significant change in microhardness over time, for either of the treatments. The LU alone showed greater substance loss in the gastric juice + brushing groups for every year. In both treatments, the LU, VE, and EMP exhibited a significant increase in the substance loss over time. The treatment did not affect the BFS of the materials. The gastric juice + brushing decreased the reliability of the VE.

CONCLUSIONS

All materials were somehow impaired by the gastric juice + brushing in at least one of the evaluated parameters, except for the BFS. However, in a deeper analysis, the LU would be the least indicated materials, followed by VE, for patients with eating disorders.

Profound effects of gastric secretion rate variations on the precipitation of erlotinib in duodenum - an in vitro investigation

Using an artificial stomach and duodenum (ASD), we investigated the pH-dependent precipitation of erlotinib (ERL) during dissolution in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by varying the rate of gastric fluid secretion (GFS). Results show that decreasing GFS rate from 2.5 to 0.5 mL/min leads to an increased degree of supersaturation in the duodenum fluid due to elevated pH, resulting in precipitation of ERL and a reduced area under the curve (AUC) of the concentration - time profiles from 14,000 to 3,000 (μg‧min)/mL. Such a change in AUC is expected to lower the bioavailability of ERL, a BCS II drug, in patients with a low GFS. This example demonstrates the potential use of ASD as an effective tool for guiding the efficient development of robust tablet formulations by better understanding the impact of GI tract pH on the fate of drugs in the duodenal fluid.

Microbiome changes in the gastric mucosa and gastric juice in different histological stages of Helicobacter pylori-negative gastric cancers

BACKGROUND

The gastric microbiota in patients with gastric cancer (GC) has received increasing attention, but the profiling of the gastric microbiome through the histological stages of gastric tumorigenesis remains poorly understood, especially for patients with Helicobacter pylori-negative GC (HPNGC).

AIM

To characterize microbial profiles of gastric mucosa and juice for HPNGC carcinogenesis and identify distinct taxa in precancerous lesions.

METHODS

The 16S rRNA gene analysis was performed on gastric mucosa from 134 Helicobacter pylori-negative cases, including 56 superficial gastritis (SG), 9 atrophic gastritis (AG), 27 intestinal metaplasia (IM), 29 dysplasia (Dys), and 13 GC cases, to investigate differences in gastric microbial diversity and composition across the disease stages. In addition, paired gastric mucosa and juice samples from 18 SG, 18 IM, and 18 Dys samples were analyzed. α-Diversity was measured by Shannon and Chao1 indexes, and β-diversity was calculated using partial least squares discrimination analysis (PLS-DA). Differences in the microbial composition across disease stages in different sample types were assessed using the linear discriminant analysis effect size.

RESULTS

The diversity and composition of the bacterial microbiota in the gastric mucosa changed progressively across stages of gastric carcinogenesis. The diversity of the gastric mucosa microbiota was found to be significantly lower in the IM and Dys groups than in the SG group, and the patients with GC had the lowest bacterial community richness (P < 0.05). Patients with IM and those with Dys had similar gastric mucosa microbiota profiles with Ralstonia and Rhodococcus as the predominant genera. Microbial network analysis showed that there was increasing correlation strength between IM and Dys (|correlation threshold|≥ 0.5, P < 0.05). GC and its precancerous lesions have distinguishable bacterial taxa; our results identified HPNGC-associated bacteria Streptococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae (P < 0.05). Additionally, across precancerous lesion stages from AG to Dys in Helicobacter pylori-negative patients, Burkholderiaceae abundance continuously increased, while Streptococcaceae and Prevotellaceae abundance presented a continuous downward trend. Furthermore, the microbial diversity was higher in gastric juice (P < 0.001) than in the mucosa, while PLS-DA revealed a statistically significant difference between the two groups (ANOSIM, P = 0.001). A significant difference in the microbial structure was identified, with Proteobacteria being more prevalent in the gastric mucosa and Firmicutes being more abundant in gastric juice.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide insights into potential taxonomic biomarkers for HPNGC and its precancerous stages and assist in predicting the prognosis of IM and Dys based on the mucosal microbiota profile.

Daily requirement of softgel thyroxine is independent from gastric juice pH

BACKGROUND

Softgel levothyroxine (LT4) preparation showed a better in vitro dissolution profile at increasing pH as compared to tablet LT4 preparation. Clinical studies suggested a better performance of softgel LT4 preparation in patients with gastric disorders but whether this finding is related to gastric juice pH variation in vivo is not known.

METHODS

Twenty-eight hypothyroid patients (24F/4M; median age=50 treated with tablet LT4 (median dose= 1.65 µg/kg/day) and with stable thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values on target (<0.8-2.5> mU/l) have been shifted to softgel LT4 preparation. The dose of softgel LT4 has been titrated to obtain a similar individual serum TSH value. All subjects followed a specific treatment schedule, taking LT4 in fasting condition and then abstaining from eating or drinking for at least 1 hour. Owing to the presence of long-lasting dyspepsia or of already known gastric disorders, all patients underwent endoscopy, upon informed consent. Gastric juice has been collected during endoscopy to measure gastric pH. Then we plotted the dose of LT4 with the gastric pH obtained in vivo, before and after the switch tablet/softgel preparation in all patients.

RESULTS

Upon the switch tablet/softgel preparation, the therapeutic LT4 dose was very slightly reduced (-6%) in the whole sample. However, the individual variations revealed the existence of two populations, one without any dose reduction (A) and the other showing a dose reduction >20% (B). Upon matching with the actual gastric pH, patients with normal pH (A: n=17; 14F/3M, median 1.52) no showed a lower softgel LT4 requirement. Instead, among patients with reduced gastric acid production (B: n=11; 10F/1M, median pH 5.02) the vast majority (10/11; 91%, p<0.0001) benefited from a lower dose of softgel LT4 (median = -23%, p<0.0001). Interestingly, the dose of LT4 in tablet correlated with pH value (Spearman's ρ =0.6409; p = 0.0002) while softgel dose was independent from gastric juice pH (Spearman's ρ =1.952; p = 0.3194).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide evidence that softgel LT4 preparation is independent from the actual gastric pH in humans and may represent a significant therapeutic option in patients with increased LT4 requirement, owed to disorders impairing the gastric acidic output.

Sustainable Stabilizer-Free Nanoparticle Formulations of Valsartan Using Eudragit® RLPO

The bioavailability of the antihypertensive drug valsartan can be enhanced by various microencapsulation methods. In the present investigation, valsartan-loaded polymeric nanoparticles were manufactured from Eudragit® RLPO using an emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was found to be a suitable stabilizer for the nanoparticles, resulting in a monodisperse colloid system ranging in size between 148 nm and 162 nm. Additionally, a high encapsulation efficiency (96.4%) was observed. However, due to the quaternary ammonium groups of Eudragit® RLPO, the stabilization of the dispersion could be achieved in the absence of PVA as well. The nanoparticles were reduced in size (by 22%) and exhibited similar encapsulation efficiencies (96.4%). This more cost-effective and sustainable production method reduces the use of excipients and their expected emission into the environment. The drug release from valsartan-loaded nanoparticles was evaluated in a two-stage biorelevant dissolution set-up, leading to the rapid dissolution of valsartan in a simulated intestinal medium. In silico simulations using a model validated previously indicate a potential dose reduction of 60-70% compared to existing drug products. This further reduces the expected emission of the ecotoxic compound into the environment.

pylori eradication, a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Clarithromycin-based standard triple therapy is still commonly adopted by 81.4% of physicians in real-world practice but yields low eradication rates. Therefore, we conducted this study to compare the efficacy of gastric juice-guided therapy for first-line eradication with the standard triple therapy, in order to provide an alternative to real-world practice.

METHODS

A total of 182 treatment-naïve Hp-infected patients were included and randomly allocated to either susceptibility-guided therapy (SGT) with gastric juice PCR or Clarithromycin-based standard triple therapy (STT) for 7 days.

RESULTS

The intention-to-treat eradication rates were 89% (81/91) in SGT and 75.8% in STT (p < 0.031). The per-protocol eradication rates were 91.0% (81/89) in SGT and 79.3% (69/87) in STT (p < 0.034). Among the subgroups of different antibiotic resistance, patients with SGT demonstrated superior eradication rates (91.7% vs 45.5%, p < 0.027) in the subgroup of both clarithromycin resistance and levofloxacin resistance.

CONCLUSION

This prospective randomized controlled trial demonstrated the reliable efficacy of susceptibility-guided therapy via gastric juice PCR for the first-line Hp eradication. In Asia-Pacific area, where standard triple therapy is still adopted by the majority of the physicians, it is a recommended alternative to overcome the increasing antibiotic resistance.

Keratin-A6ACA NPs for gastric ulcer diagnosis and repair

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The Potential of Peroxidases Extracted from the Spent Mushroom (Flammulina velutipes) Substrate Significantly Degrade Mycotoxin Deoxynivalenol

Little is known about the degradability of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) by the spent mushroom substrate (SMS)-derived manganese peroxidase (MnP) and lignin peroxidase (LiP) and its potential. The present study investigated the growth inhibition of Fusarium graminearum KR1 and the degradation of DON by MnP and LiP extracted from SMS. The results from the 7-day treatment period showed that mycelium inhibition of F. graminearum KR1 by MnP and LiP were 23.7% and 74.7%, respectively. Deoxynivalenol production in the mycelium of F. graminearum KR1 was undetectable after treatment with 50 U/mL of MnP or LiP for 7 days. N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) content and chitinase activity both increased in the hyphae of F. graminearum KR1 after treatment with MnP and LiP for 1, 3, and 6 h, respectively. At 12 h, only the LiP-treated group had higher chitinase activity and GlcNAc content than those of the control group (p < 0.05). However, more than 60% of DON degradabilities (0.5 mg/kg, 1 h) were observed under various pH values (2.5, 4.5, and 6.5) in both MnP (50 U/g) and LiP (50 U/g) groups, while DON degradability at 1 mg/kg was 85.5% after 50 U/g of LiP treatment for 7 h in simulated pig gastrointestinal tracts. Similarly, DON degradability at 5 mg/kg was 67.1% after LiP treatment for 4.5 h in simulated poultry gastrointestinal tracts. The present study demonstrated that SMS-extracted peroxidases, particularly LiP, could effectively degrade DON and inhibit the mycelium growth of F. graminearum KR1.

Red Propolis and Its Dyslipidemic Regulator Formononetin: Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Gastroprotective Effects in Rat Model of Gastric Ulcer

Propolis has various pharmacological properties of clinical interest, and is also considered a functional food. In particular, hydroalcoholic extracts of red propolis (HERP), together with its isoflavonoid formononetin, have recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with known added value against dyslipidemia. In this study, we report the gastroprotective effects of HERP (50–500 mg/kg, p.o.) and formononetin (10 mg/kg, p.o.) in ethanol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced models of rat ulcer. The volume, pH, and total acidity were the evaluated gastric secretion parameters using the pylorus ligature model, together with the assessment of gastric mucus contents. The anti-Helicobacter pylori activities of HERP were evaluated using the agar-well diffusion method. In our experiments, HERP (250 and 500 mg/kg) and formononetin (10 mg/kg) reduced (p < 0.001) total lesion areas in the ethanol-induced rat ulcer model, and reduced (p < 0.05) ulcer indices in the indomethacin-induced rat ulcer model. Administration of HERP and formononetin to pylorus ligature models significantly decreased (p < 0.01) gastric secretion volumes and increased (p < 0.05) mucus production. We have also shown the antioxidant and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities of HERP. The obtained results indicate that HERP and formononetin are gastroprotective in acute ulcer models, suggesting a prominent role of formononetin in the effects of HERP.

Source of dopamine in gastric juice and luminal dopamine-induced duodenal bicarbonate secretion via apical dopamine D2 receptors

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Dopamine protects the duodenal mucosa. Here we have investigated the source of dopamine in gastric juice and the mechanism underlying the effects of luminal dopamine on duodenal bicarbonate secretion (DBS) in rodents.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Immunofluorescence, UPLC-MS/MS, gastric incubation and perfusion were used to detect gastric-derived dopamine. Immunofluorescence and RT-PCR were used to examine the expression of dopamine receptors in the duodenal mucosa. Real-time pH titration and pHi measurement were performed to investigate DBS.

KEY RESULTS

H+ -K+ -ATPase was co-localized with tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine transporters in gastric parietal cells. Dopamine was increased in in vivo gastric perfusate after intravenous infusion of histamine and in gastric mucosa incubated, in vitro, with bethanechol chloride or tyrosine. D2 receptors were the most abundant dopamine receptors in rat duodenum, mainly distributed on the apical membrane of epithelial cells. Luminal dopamine increased DBS in a concentration-dependent manner, an effect mimicked by a D2 receptor agonist quinpirole and inhibited by the D2 receptor antagonist L741,626, in vivo D2 receptor siRNA and in D2 receptor -/- mice. Dopamine and quinpirole raised the duodenal enterocyte pHi . Quinpirole-evoked DBS and PI3K/Akt activity were inhibited by calcium chelator BAPTA-AM or in D2 receptor-/- mice.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Dopamine in the gastric juice is derived from parietal cells and is secreted along with gastric acid. On arrival in the duodenal lumen, dopamine increased DBS via an apical D2 receptor- and calcium-dependent pathway. Our data provide novel insights into the protective effects of dopamine on the duodenal mucosa.

Application of an in vitro digestion model to study the metabolic profile changes of an herbal extract combination by UHPLC-HRMS

BACKGROUND

STW 5 is a fixed herbal combination containing extracts from nine medicinal plants: bitter candytuft, greater celandine, garden angelica roots, lemon balm leaves, peppermint leaves, caraway fruits, licorice roots, chamomile flowers, and milk thistle fruit. STW 5 is a clinically proven treatment for functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.

PURPOSE

Using a static in vitro method, we simulated oral, gastric, and small intestinal digestion and analyzed the metabolic profile changes by UHPLC-HRMS to determine the impact of oro-gastro-intestinal digestion on STW 5 constituents.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

STW 5 was incubated according to the InfoGest consensus method. Samples of each digestive phase were analyzed by UHPLC-HRMS in ESI positive and negative modes. After data processing, background subtraction, and normalization, the peak areas of detectable compounds were compared to untreated reference samples and recovery ratios were calculated to monitor the metabolic profile of STW 5 during simulated digestion.

RESULTS

Although the levels of some constituents were reduced, we did not observe complete degradation of any of the constituents of STW 5 upon in vitro digestion. We did not detect any new metabolites beyond increased levels of caffeic acid and liquiritigenin due to degradation of progenitor compounds. Changes observed in intestinal bioaccessibility ratios were mainly a result of isomerization, hydrolysis, protein binding, and low water solubility.

CONCLUSION

The majority of STW 5 constituents are stable towards simulated in vitro digestion and can reach the colon to interact with gut microbiota if they remain unabsorbed in the upper intestinal tract.

Chyme Reinfusion in Intestinal Failure Related to Temporary Double Enterostomies and Enteroatmospheric Fistulas

Some temporary double enterostomies (DES) or entero-atmospheric fistulas (EAF) have high output and are responsible for Type 2 intestinal failure. Intravenous supplementations (IVS) for parenteral nutrition and hydration compensate for intestinal losses. Chyme reinfusion (CR) artificially restores continuity pending surgical closure. CR treats intestinal failure and is recommended by European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) when possible. The objective of this study was to show changes in nutritional status, intestinal function, liver tests, IVS needs during CR, and the feasibility of continuing it at home. A retrospective study of 306 admitted patients treated with CR from 2000 to 2018 was conducted. CR was permanent such that a peristaltic pump sucked the upstream chyme and reinfused it immediately in a tube inserted into the downstream intestine. Weight, plasma albumin, daily volumes of intestinal and fecal losses, intestinal nitrogen, and lipid absorption coefficients, plasma citrulline, liver tests, and calculated indices were compared before and during CR in patients who had both measurements. The patients included 185 males and 121 females and were 63 ± 15 years old. There were 37 (12%), 269 (88%) patients with EAF and DES, respectively. The proximal small bowel length from the duodeno-jejunal angle was 108 ± 67 cm (n = 232), and the length of distal small intestine was 117 ± 72 cm (n = 253). The median CR start was 5 d (quartile 25-75%, 2-10) after admission and continued for 64 d (45-95), including 81 patients at home for 47 d (28-74). Oral feeding was exclusive 171(56%), with enteral supplement 122 (42%), or with IVS 23 (7%). Before CR, 211 (69%) patients had IVS for nutrition (77%) or for hydration (23%). IVS were stopped in 188 (89%) 2 d (0-7) after the beginning of CR and continued in 23 (11%) with lower volumes. Nutritional status improved with respect to weight gain (+3.5 ± 8.4%) and albumin (+5.4 ± 5.8 g/L). Intestinal failure was cured in the majority of cases as evidenced by the decrease in intestinal losses by 2096 ± 959 mL/d, the increase in absorption of nitrogen 32 ± 20%, of lipids 43 ± 30%, and the improvement of citrulline 13.1 ± 8.1 µmol/L. The citrulline increase was correlated with the length of the distal intestine. The number of patients with at least one liver test >2N decreased from 84-40%. In cases of Type 2 intestinal failure related to DES or FAE with an accessible and functional distal small bowel segment, CR restored intestinal functions, reduced the need of IVS by 89% and helped improve nutritional status and liver tests. There were no vital complications or infectious diarrhea described to date. CR can become the first-line treatment for intestinal failure related to double enterostomy and high output fistulas.

Quantitative label-free proteomic analysis reveals differentially expressed proteins in the digestive juice of resistant versus susceptible silkworm strains and their predicted impacts on BmNPV infection

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is a major pathogen causing severe economic loss. Previous studies have revealed that some proteins in silkworm digestive juice show antiviral activity. In this study, antiviral activity examination of different resistant strains showed that the digestive juice of the resistant strain (A35) had higher inhibition to virus than the susceptible strain (P50). Subsequently, the label-free quantitative proteomics was used to study the midgut digestive juice response to BmNPV infection in P50 and A35 strains. A total of 98 proteins were identified, of which 80 were differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) with 54 enzymes and 26 nonenzymatic proteins by comparing the proteomes of infected and non-infected P50 and A35 silkworms. These DEPs are mainly involved in metabolism, proteolysis, neuroactive ligand receptor interaction, starch and sucrose metabolism and glutathione metabolism. After removing the genetic background and individual immune stress response proteins, 9 DEPs were identified potentially involved in resistance to BmNPV. Further studies showed that a serine protease, an alkaline phosphatase and serine protease inhibitor 2 isoform X1 were differentially expressed in A35 compared to P50 or post BmNPV infection. Taken together, these results provide insights into the potential mechanisms for silkworm digestive juice to provide resistance to BmNPV infection. Signifcance: Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is highly pathogenic, which has a great impact on the sericulture. BmNPV entered the midgut lumen and exposed to digestive juices after oral infection. Previous studies have revealed that some proteins in silkworm digestive juice show antiviral activity, however, current information on the digestive juice proteome of high resistant silkworm strain after BmNPV challenge compared to susceptible strain is incomprehensive. Here, we combined label-free quantification method, bioinformatics, RT-qPCR and western blot analysis and found that BmNPV infection causes some protein changes in the silkworm midgut digestive juice. The DEPs were identified in the digestive juices of different resistant strains following BmNPV infection, and screened out some proteins potentially related to resistance to BmNPV. Three important differentially expression proteins were validated by independent approaches. These findings uncover the potential role of silkworm digestive juice in providing resistance to BmNPV and supplemented the profile of the proteome of the digestive juices in B. mori.

Probiotic characteristics of bacteriocin-producing Enterococcus faecium strains isolated from human milk and colostrum

As potential probiotic traits of human milk-isolated bacteria have increasingly been recognized, this study aimed to evaluate the probiotic properties of bacteriocin-producing Enterococcus faecium strains isolated from human milk and colostrum. Among 118 human milk- and colostrum-isolated lactic cocci, only 29 were identified as Enterococcus. Of these, only four Enterococcus faecium isolates exhibited bacteriocigenic activity against several pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria, including Listeria monocytogenes. These isolates exhibited high acid (up to pH 3.0) and bile tolerance (0.5% oxgall) in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, demonstrating their ability to survive through the upper gastrointestinal tract. All of the E. faecium strains were shown to be sensitive to most of the antibiotics including vancomycin, tetracycline, rifampicin, and erythromycin, while they were resistant to kanamycin and chloramphenicol. None of the strains showed any virulence (gelE, agg2, clyA, clyB, clyM) and antibiotic resistance genes (vanA, vanB, ermB, tetM, and aac(6')-le-aph(2″)-la). In addition, all the strains were able to assimilate cholesterol, ranging between 25.2-64.1% and they exhibited variable adherence (19-36%) to Caco-2 cells. Based on the overall results of this in vitro study, four of the E. faecium strains isolated from human milk and colostrum can be considered as promising probiotic candidates; however, further in vivo evaluations are required.

Influence of opefera on the colon motility of rats in the conditions of prolonged gastric juice hypoacidity

OBJECTIVE

Introduction: Gastric hypohlorhydria is the result of inflammatory process in the intestine caused by dysbiosis. Multiprobiotics significantly improve the colon's motility. Not only probiotics, but also synbiotics are used to eliminate dysbiosis. The aim of the work was to study the effect of Opefera on spontaneous and stimulated contractile activity of the colon in rats.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: The studies were carried out on 30 white rats, divided into 3 groups. The rats of group I served as controls; they daily received water for injections for 28 days. Group II rats received omeprazole daily for 28 days and rectally - water. Rats of group III were given omeprazole and Opefera simultaneously during 28 days. On the 29th day the colon motility was examined by the balonography method [13]. To do this, the "Jaguar" automated unit was used. For statistic data processing, Student's t-criterion for independent samples was applied.

RESULTS

Results: In the group of rats, which received omeprazole and Opefera simultaneously during 28 days, the index of motor activity increased compared to the group of rats given omeprazole only. Thus, application of the Opefera drug enhances the spontaneous and stimulated motility of the colon, suppressed by prolonged hypochlorhydria of gastric juice.

CONCLUSION

Conclusion: The Opefera drug stimulates spontaneous and stimulated motility of the colon, suppressed by prolonged hypochlorhydria of gastric juice. Opefera application is expedient in patients with prolonged hypochlorhydria of various genesis to normalize the colon contractile activity.

Oral bioaccessibility of inorganic contaminants in waste dusts generated by laterite Ni ore smelting

The laterite Ni ore smelting operations in Niquelândia and Barro Alto (Goiás State, Brazil) have produced large amounts of fine-grained smelting wastes, which have been stockpiled on dumps and in settling ponds. We investigated granulated slag dusts (n = 5) and fly ash samples (n = 4) with a special focus on their leaching behaviour in deionised water and on the in vitro bioaccessibility in a simulated gastric fluid, to assess the potential exposure risk for humans. Bulk chemical analyses indicated that both wastes contained significant amounts of contaminants: up to 2.6 wt% Ni, 7580 mg/kg Cr, and 508 mg/kg Co. In only one fly ash sample, after 24 h of leaching in deionised water, the concentrations of leached Ni exceeded the limit for hazardous waste according to EU legislation, whereas the other dusts were classified as inert wastes. Bioaccessible fractions (BAF) of the major contaminants (Ni, Co, and Cr) were quite low for the slag dusts and accounted for less than 2 % of total concentrations. In contrast, BAF values were significantly higher for fly ash materials, which reached 13 % for Ni and 19 % for Co. Daily intakes via oral exposure, calculated for an adult (70 kg, dust ingestion rate of 50 mg/day), exceeded neither the tolerable daily intake (TDI) nor the background exposure limits for all of the studied contaminants. Only if a higher ingestion rate is assumed (e.g. 100 mg dust per day for workers in the smelter), the TDI limit for Ni recently defined by European Food Safety Authority (196 µg/day) was exceeded (324 µg/day) for one fly ash sample. Our data indicate that there is only a limited risk to human health related to the ingestion of dust materials generated by laterite Ni ore smelting operations if appropriate safety measures are adopted at the waste disposal sites and within the smelter facility.

Autochthonous lactic acid bacteria isolated from pig faeces in Thailand show probiotic properties and antibacterial activity against enteric pathogenic bacteria

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play an important role in pig health and performance that arises from their beneficial impacts on the balance of gastrointestinal microbes, ability to fight enteric pathogens, and capacity to support the immune system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and safety aspects of five previously isolated autochthonous LAB strains, (Lactobacillus plantarum 22F, 25F and 31F, Pediococcus acidilactici 72N and Pediococcus pentosaceus 77F) from pig faeces as potential probiotics for a pig feed supplement. The functional and safety properties of the strains were assessed by in vitro tests. The functional properties tested were their abilities in tolerating low pH values under simulated gastric conditions, their cell surface properties (hydrophobicity, auto- and co-aggregation), antibacterial activity against the common enteric pathogenic bacteria in pigs (such as pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella Choleraesuis and Streptococcus suis), and diacetyl production. The safety of the strains was analyzed based on the absent of haemolysis on blood and bile salt hydrolase activity. Although all strains demonstrated diacetyl production, good survivability and antibacterial activities, L. plantarum 22F and 25F showed the best performance with the strongest antibacterial actions against the indicator pathogens. Of the strains, only P. pentosaceus 77F exhibited haemolysis or bile salt hydrolase activity. Furthermore, a principal component analysis revealed that L. plantarum 22F possessed superior functional and safety aspects compared to the other four autochthonous strains and to reference strains L. plantarum JCM 1149 and P. acidilactici DSM 20284. Further in vivo studies using oral administration of the strains are justified to assess their effectiveness as feed supplements for pigs.

Stability of plant virus-based nanocarriers in gastrointestinal fluids

Cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) is a plant virus which is being extensively investigated as a drug delivery and vaccine nanocarrier for parenteral administration. However, to date little is known about the suitability of plant-based nanocarriers for oral delivery. In this study, the colloidal (i.e. aggregation), physical (i.e. denaturation) and chemical (i.e. digestion of the polypeptides) stability of CPMV and its empty virus-like particles (eVLPs) in conditions resembling the gastrointestinal fluids were evaluated. The nanoparticles were incubated in various simulated gastric and intestinal fluids and in pig gastric and intestinal fluids. CPMV and eVLPs had similar stabilities. In simulated gastric media, they were stable at pH ≥ 2.5. At lower pH destabilisation of the particle structure occurred, which, in turn, rendered the polypeptides extremely sensitive to pepsin digestion. However, both CPMV and eVLPs were stable in simulated intestinal fluids, in pig gastric fluids and in pig intestinal fluids. Thus CPMV, despite being a protein-based nanoparticle, was much more resistant to the harsh GI conditions than soluble proteins. Remarkably, both CPMV and eVLPs incubated in pig gastric and intestinal fluids were not subject to protein adsorption, with no formation of a detectable protein corona. The lack of a protein corona on CPMV and eVLP surfaces in GI fluids would imply that, if orally administered, these nanoparticles could maintain their native surface characteristics; thus, their biological interactions would remain predictable and unchanged. In summary, CPMV and eVLPs can be considered promising nanocarriers for applications requiring oral delivery, given their chemical, physical and colloidal stability and lack of protein adsorption from the environment in most of the tested conditions.

[Effects of Pogostemon cablin on gastrointestinal function of rats with syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao]

To investigate the effects of Pogostemon cablin(patchouli) on gastrointestinal function of rats with the syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao, and explore its therapeutic mechanism. In this study, gastrointestinal function of rats with the syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao was evaluated by multiple assays including gastric remnant rate, small intestine propelling rate, gastric juice quantity, pepsin activity and gastrointestinal tissue morphology. ELISA was used to detect gastrointestinal hormones including MTL, GAS, VIP and cytokines including TNF-α and interleukin 10 in rat serum. Real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR technique was used to detect relative mRNA expression of AQP3, AQP4 and AQP8 in gastric and colonic tissues to explore the mechanism of P. cablin in treatment of gastrointestinal functions. The results showed that middle and high dose of P. cablin (3.24, 6.48 g•kg⁻¹) could obviously decrease the gastric remnant rate, promote gastric emptying, increase the small intestine propelling rate(P<0.05), speed up the propulsive movement of gastrointestinal tract, increase the secretion and acidity of gastric juice, increase the activity of pepsin, and improve the injury of gastrointestinal tissue. All the doses of P. cablin could increase the concentration of MTL and GAS in serum, reduce the concentration of VIP, TNF-α and IL-10 in serum, decrease the mRNA expression of AQP3 in gastric and colonic tissues, and increase the expression levels of AQP4 and AQP8 in colonic tissues. The regulatory effects were better in middle and high dose groups. In conclusion, regulation of the levels of gastrointestinal hormones, inflammatory cytokines and aquaporins may be the paths for P. cablin to maintain normal gastrointestinal function of rats with the syndrome of damp retention in middle-jiao. The results of the study laid a foundation for clarifying the treatment mechanism of aromatic damp-resolving drugs for indications including damp retention in middle-jiao and transformation failure of spleen.

Effects of Marine Oils, Digested with Human Fluids, on Cellular Viability and Stress Protein Expression in Human Intestinal Caco-2 Cells

In vitro digestion of marine oils has been reported to promote lipid oxidation, including the formation of reactive aldehydes (e.g., malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxy-2-hexenal (HHE)). We aimed to investigate if human in vitro digestion of supplemental levels of oils from algae, cod liver, and krill, in addition to pure MDA and HHE, affect intestinal Caco-2 cell survival and oxidative stress. Cell viability was not significantly affected by the digests of marine oils or by pure MDA and HHE (0-90 μM). Cellular levels of HSP-70, a chaperone involved in the prevention of stress-induced protein unfolding was significantly decreased (14%, 28%, and 14% of control for algae, cod and krill oil, respectively; p ≤ 0.05). The oxidoreductase thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1) involved in reducing oxidative stress was also lower after incubation with the digested oils (26%, 53%, and 22% of control for algae, cod, and krill oil, respectively; p ≤ 0.001). The aldehydes MDA and HHE did not affect HSP-70 or Trx-1 at low levels (8.3 and 1.4 μM, respectively), whilst a mixture of MDA and HHE lowered Trx-1 at high levels (45 μM), indicating less exposure to oxidative stress. We conclude that human digests of the investigated marine oils and their content of MDA and HHE did not cause a stress response in human intestinal Caco-2 cells.

Possible contribution of nitric oxide and prostaglandin in the protective effect of angiotensin (1-7) against stress induced gastric ulceration in adult male albino rats

To assess the gastro-protective potential of the angiotensin (Ang-) (1-7) on the gastric secretion and ulceration induced by cold restraint stress (CRS) in adult male rats and the possible contribution of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2. Rats were pylorically ligated and divided randomly into the following groups (8 rats each): control, cold-restraint stressed (CRS), stressed Ang-(1-7) treated, stressed L-NNA-Ang-(1-7) treated, stressed Indo-Ang-(1-7) treated groups. Our results revealed that Ang-(1-7) pre-treatment proved to be protective against development of ulcerative lesions in CRS model as evidenced by histological examination and the reduction of the ulcer index and this could be mediated through reduction of free and total acidity and pepsin concentration of gastric secretion with significantly decreased lipid peroxidation and increased the gastric protective nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 levels. Furthermore, Ang-(1-7) pre-treatment has anti-apoptotic effect, evident by its down-regulation of the CRS induced over-expression of the gastric caspase 3. In addition, the gastro-protective effects of Ang-(1-7) were significantly attenuated by co-administration with L-NNA or indomethacin. In conclusion, Ang-(1-7) can be considered a potential therapeutic agent to protect against the major clinical challenge of gastric injury resulting from stress. Nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 seem to contribute to the Ang-(1-7)'s gastro-protective effect (Tab. 2, Fig. 5, Ref. 35).

Bifidobacterium adolescentis Exerts Strain-Specific Effects on Constipation Induced by Loperamide in BALB/c Mice

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints worldwide. This study was performed to determine whether Bifidobacterium adolescentis exerts inter-strain differences in alleviating constipation induced by loperamide in BALB/c mice and to analyze the main reasons for these differences. BALB/c mice underwent gavage with B. adolescentis (CCFM 626, 667, and 669) once per day for 17 days. The primary outcome measures included related constipation indicators, and the secondary outcome measures were the basic biological characteristics of the strains, the concentration changes of short-chain fatty acids in feces, and the changes in the fecal flora. B. adolescentis CCFM 669 and 667 relieved constipation symptoms by adhering to intestinal epithelial cells, growing quickly in vitro and increasing the concentrations of propionic and butyric acids. The effect of B. adolescentis on the gut microbiota in mice with constipation was investigated via 16S rRNA metagenomic analysis. The results revealed that the relative abundance of Lactobacillus increased and the amount of Clostridium decreased in the B. adolescentis CCFM 669 and 667 treatment groups. In conclusion, B. adolescentis exhibits strain-specific effects in the alleviation of constipation, mostly due to the strains’ growth rates, adhesive capacity and effects on the gut microbiome and microenvironment.

Relative bioaccessibility of Pb-based paint in soil

The threat posed by lead (Pb) in soil for pediatric populations continues to be a public health issue. In long-established residential areas, a principal source of Pb in soil is likely to be old Pb-based paint originating from building surfaces. The health hazard posed by Pb from paint in soil will likely depend on quantity of paint incorporated, its Pb-mineral composition, whether the Pb is locked in some other material and the paint residence time in the soil (degree of aging). Here the relative bioavailability (RBA) of Pb in different types of Pb-bearing paint has been assessed. Tests were performed with individual paints, with paints mixed with a low-Pb soil, and with paints mixed with soil and the biogenic phosphate apatite II. Thirteen Pb-bearing paint samples were ground and passed through 250- and 100-µm screens. Samples nominally <100 µm from all the paints were analyzed, and six of the paints for which there was sufficient material in the 100- to 250-µm-size range were also tested. RBA extraction of Pb employed a simulated gastric fluid (SGF) of HCl and glycine adjusted to a pH of 1.5 in which samples were agitated (in an end-over-end rotator) for 2 h. Original paints were examined by SEM/EDX, and by XRD, residues collected after RBA extraction were examined by SEM/EDX. The concentration of Pb in the extraction fluid was measured by AAS. The quantity of Pb mobilized in each test batch was approximately an order of magnitude less in the paint-soil mix compared to the corresponding paint-only sample. The difference in the amount of Pb extracted from the paint-soil mix compared to the paint-soil-phosphate mix was minimal. However, in the post-RBA residues of the paint-soil mix, a PbCl precipitate was observed, and in the extraction residues of the paint-soil-apatite II mixes PbClP phases were recorded. Precipitation of these secondary phases obviously modified the amount of Pb in the extraction fluid, and this may need to be considered, i.e., under-reporting of extractable Pb, when this form of in vitro extraction is used to determine the RBA of Pb in environmental media.

Microencapsulation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG by Transglutaminase Cross-Linked Soy Protein Isolate to Improve Survival in Simulated Gastrointestinal Conditions and Yoghurt

Microencapsulation is an effective way to improve the survival of probiotics in simulated gastrointestinal (GI) conditions and yoghurt. In this study, microencapsulation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) was prepared by first cross-linking of soy protein isolate (SPI) using transglutaminase (TGase), followed by embedding the bacteria in cross-linked SPI, and then freeze-drying. The survival of microencapsulated LGG was evaluated in simulated GI conditions and yoghurt. The results showed that a high microencapsulation yield of 67.4% was obtained. The diameter of the microencapsulated LGG was in the range of 52.83 to 275.16 μm. Water activity did not differ between free and microencapsulated LGG after freeze-drying. The survival of microencapsulated LGG under simulated gastric juice (pH 2.5 and 3.6), intestinal juice (0.3% and 2% bile salt) and storage at 4 °C were significantly higher than that of free cells. The survival of LGG in TGase cross-linked SPI microcapsules was also improved to 14.5 ± 0.5% during storage in yoghurt. The microencapsulation of probiotics by TGase-treated SPI can be a suitable alternative to polysaccharide gelation technologies.

A Rapid and Accurate Method to Evaluate Helicobacter pylori Infection, Clarithromycin Resistance, and CYP2C19 Genotypes Simultaneously From Gastric Juice

Because Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) would cause carcinogenesis of the stomach, we need sufficient information for deciding on an appropriate strategy of eradication. Many factors affect the efficacy of eradication including antimicrobial resistance (especially clarithromycin resistance) and CYP2C19 polymorphism. This study was to survey the efficiency of gastric juice for detecting H pylori infection, clarithromycin resistance, and CYP2C19 polymorphism.The specimens of gastric juice were collected from all patients while receiving gastroscopy. DNA was extracted from gastric juice and then urease A and cag A were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detecting the existence of H pylori. By PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), the 23S rRNA of H pylori and CYP2C19 genotypes of host were examined respectively. During endoscopy examination, biopsy-based specimens were also collected for rapid urease test, culture, and histology. The blood samples were also collected for analysis of CYP2C19 genotypes. We compared the results of gastric juice tests with the results of traditional clinical tests.When compared with the results from traditional clinical tests, our results from gastric juice showed that the sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy to detect H pylori infection were 92.1% (105/114), 92.9% (143/154), 90.5% (105/116), 94.1% (143/152), and 92.5% (248/268), respectively. The SEN, SPE, PPV, and NPV to detect clarithromycin resistance were 97.3% (36/37), 91.5% (43/47), 90.0% (36/40), and 97.7% (43/44), respectively. By using PCR-RFLP, the consistency of human CYP2C19 gene polymorphism from blood samples and gastric juice was as high as 94.9% (149/157).The manipulated gastric juice is actually an effective diagnostic sample for evaluation of H pylori existence, clarithromycin resistance, and host CYP2C19 polymorphism.

Assessment of probiotic, antifungal and cholesterol lowering properties of Pediococcus pentosaceus KCC-23 isolated from Italian ryegrass

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are important for the processing of various food products. Although genetically modified organisms have contributed to improvements in various food products, there are some limitations. Thus, the discovery of wild strains from natural sources must be considered as the most suitable approach for identifying new LAB. Therefore, we planned to isolate and characterise the LAB from Italian ryegrass forage and evaluate their biological potential.

RESULTS

A total of 28 strains were isolated and screened for their anti-fungal and probiotic properties. A single strain was selected due to its antifungal and probiotic efficiency. The strain was identified as Pediococcus pentosaceus KCC-23. The strain KCC-23 showed effective inhibition against Aspergillus fumigatus, Pencillium chrysogenum, Pencillium roqueforti, Botrytis elliptica and Fusarium oxysporum. Further, it survived low pH, and the presence of bile salts and gastric juice. It exhibited significant aggregation and hydrophobicity properties. The KCC-23 effectively assimilated cholesterol and had the ability to utilise pre-biotics such as raffinose and inulin. Finally, KCC-23 exhibited significant free radical scavenging activity.

CONCLUSION

P. pentosaceus KCC-23 showed effective anti-fungal, probiotic and anti-oxidant properties and would be a promising isolate for exploitation in the formulation of food for ruminants and humans.

[Comparative Study on Effects of Anti-Gastritis,Gastric Mucosal Protection and Gastrointestinal Movement Promotion of Root and Stem of Zanthoxylum nitidum]

OBJECTIVE

To provide the experimental evidence for expansion of medicinal parts of Zanthoxylum nitidum by comparing the effects of anti-gastritis,gastric mucosal protection and gastrointestinal movement promotion of its root and stem.

METHODS

The pharmacological effects between root and stem of Zanthoxylum nitidum were compared by observing the anti-gastritis effect on rats with chronic superficial gastritis induced by iodoacetamide, evaluating the gastric mucosal protective effect on rats’ gastric ulcer induced by stress, indometacin and pylorus ligation test, and investigating gastrointestinal movement promotion effect on mice gastric evacuation and intestinal propelling.

RESULTS

Both root and stem of Zanthoxylum nitidum showed effects of relieving the inflammation symptoms of rats’ gastric mucosa induced by iodoacetamide, gastric ulcer respectively induced by stress, and presenting a strong inhibition of free acid and pepsin activity in gastric juice. Furthermore stem parts of Zanthoxylum nitidum in promoting gastrointestinal motility even showed better efficacy than root.

CONCLUSION

Stem of Zanthoxylum nitidum has similar effects of anti-gastritis, gastric mucosal protection and gastrointestinal movement promotion with root of Zanthoxylum nitidum.

Enteric coated spheres produced by extrusion/spheronization provide effective gastric protection and efficient release of live therapeutic bacteria

We present a novel but simple enteric coated sphere formulation containing probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus casei). Oral delivery of live bacterial cells (LBC) requires live cells to survive firstly manufacturing processes and secondly GI microbicidal defenses including gastric acid. We incorporated live L. casei directly in the granulation liquid, followed by granulation, extrusion, spheronization, drying and spray coating to produce dried live probiotic spheres. A blend of MCC, calcium-crosslinked alginate, and lactose was developed that gave improved live cell survival during manufacturing, and gave excellent protection from gastric acid plus rapid release in intestinal conditions. No significant loss of viability was observed in all steps except drying, which resulted in approximately 1 log loss of viable cells. Eudragit coating was used to protect dried live cells from acid, and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was combined with sodium alginate to achieve efficient sphere disintegration leading to rapid and complete bacterial cell release in intestinal conditions. Viability and release of L. casei was evaluated in vitro in simulated GI conditions. Uncoated spheres gave partial acid protection, but enteric coated spheres effectively protected dried probiotic LBC from acid for 2h, and subsequently released all viable cells within 1h of transfer into simulated intestinal fluid.

Preparation and Characterization of Puerarin-Loaded Lipid Nanocapsules

The puerarin-loaded lipid nanocapsules (PUE-LNCs), composed of labrafac, lipoid and water, were prepared with a phase inversion procedure. The formulation was optimized by simplex lattice design and characterized for its size, zeta potential and in vitro drug release. The results showed that the PUE-LNCs performed a homogeneous typical core-shell structure under transmission electron microscope (TEM). The entrapment efficiency and drug loading were 56.61 ± 0.27% and 2.62 ± 0.12%, respectively. In vitro drug release revealed the PUE-LNCs showed a controlled-release manner in both artificial simulated gastric juice (pH 1.0) and artificial simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8). Based on the aforementioned results, it should now allow a promising tuning for further applications of LNCs as a drug delivery system for puerarin.

Encapsulated Lactococcus lactis with enhanced gastrointestinal survival for the development of folate enriched functional foods

Two lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from cow's milk were identified as Lactococcus lactis strains and designated as L. lactis CM22 and L. lactis CM28. They were immobilised by co-encapsulation using alginate and mannitol and by hybrid entrapment with skim milk, glycerol, CaCO3 and alginate. The encapsulated cells survived better in simulated gastrointestinal conditions compared to the free cells. The percentage survival of probiotics encapsulated by hybrid entrapment method was 62.74% for L. lactis CM22 and 68% for L. lactis CM28. Studies to check their efficacy in fermentative fortification of skim milk and ice cream revealed an enhancement in folate level.

[The effect of gastric juice on the development of erosive changes in hard dental tissue]

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an esophageal disorder where the refluxed gastric contents enters first into the esophagus followed by the pharynx, oral cavity, larynx, airway and middle ear, causing a range of disorders and symptoms. Hydrochloric acid from the gastric contents is responsible for the demineralization of dental hard tissues and release of matrix metalloproteinase from the dentin.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to verify the SEM (scanning electron microscopy) analysis of the surface enamel, the enamel-dentin border and dentine after the exposure of intact teeth to filtrate of gastric contents obtained during routine endoscopy.

METHODS

Material used in the research was 10 extracted human impacted third molars. The coronal part of the tooth was divided into two parts, and then the two halves of teeth were exposed to the filtrate of gastric juice obtained during routine gastroscopy, which had been frozen until the moment of the experiment initiation. All samples of teeth were immersed in the filtrate of the content at a temperature of 20 degrees C for 60 minutes. The prepared samples were observed by the SEM in the area of the enamel, the enamel-dentin border and in the area of dentin at different magnification.

RESULTS

The SEM analysis showed that both enamel and dentin had a significant demineralization of these tissues. Enamel surface resembled a demineralization similar to that of acid conditioning before the application of composite restorations. The degree of mineralization was more intense towards the enamel - dentin border, and at this area the enamel prisms were not fully recognizable. The dentin had a complete loss of peritubular dentin, the entry points of the dentin tubules were expanded and intertubular dentin demineralization was also registered.

CONCLUSION

SEM analysis showed a significant degree of destruction of enamel and dentin. Significant changes in the surface structure of enamel and dentin were also registered. The filtrate of the gastric juice degrades enamel pellicle and the dentin organic component.

[Safety of oral rehydration therapy in endoscopic surgery patients]

BACKGROUND

To test safety and efficacy of ORT (oral rehydration therapy), we compared an ORT group with an intravenous infusion (i.v.) group by gastric fluid (volume and pH) obtained by endoscope and gastric ultrasonography examination.

METHODS

Twenty six patients scheduled for endoscopic surgery were assigned to an ORT group or an i.v. group by standardized clinical path. After gastric ultrasonography examinations to calculate CSA (cross sectional area) of gastric antrum, general anesthesia was induced. Immediately after anesthesia induction, gastric fluid was obtained by endoscopy, and its volume and pH were measured.

RESULTS

Fifteen and eleven patients were assigned to ORT group and iv group, respectively. In ORT group, CSA was median 1.9 cm2 (95% CI:1.8-2.6 cm2), gastric volume was median 11 ml (95% CI: 8-18 ml) and pH was median 3.6 (range: 1.2-8.8), and in i.v. group CSA was median 1.8 cm2 (95% CI: 1.6-2.7 cm2), gastric volume was median 4 ml (95% CI: 3-12 ml), and pH was median 3.1 (range: 1.2-7.2). There was no significance between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric volume in ORS group was not smaller compared with that in i.v. group, and there was no significant difference in pH between the groups.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles by green method stabilized to synthetic human stomach fluid

Silver nanoparticles (Ag NP) have been attracted much attention in recent years in biomedical applications due to their antimicrobial activity, but their drawbacks include toxicity and instability to aqueous hydrochloric acid solutions. Ag NPs have now been successfully prepared by a simple and “green” synthesis method by reducing Ag⁺ ions in the presence of modified poly(vinyl alcohol) thiol (PVA-SH) in aqueous acidic solution. In this respect, Ag NPs were stabilized by coating different types of citrate-reduced Ag NPs with different weight ratios (1–3 Wt. %) of PVSH derivatives. The as-prepared Ag NPs were characterized using UV-Visible, high resolution transmission electron microscopy/ energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM/EDS), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) combined with Rietveld analysis. The changes in size, shape, and hydrodynamic diameter of Ag NPs after different duration exposure to synthetic stomach fluid (SSF) and1 M HCl were determined using TEM, XRD and UV-Visible analyses. The data indicated that these Ag NPs possessed high stability to SSF for more than 90 days, which was not previously reported in the literature.

Protective effects of D-002 on experimentally induced gastroesophageal reflux in rats

AIM: To investigate the effects of beeswax alcohols (D-002) on the esophageal damage induced by gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in rats.

METHODS: Sixty male rats were randomized into six groups (10 rats/group): a negative control and five groups with experimentally induced GER: a positive vehicle control, three treated with D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively), and one with omeprazole 10 mg/kg. All treatments were given by gastric gavage. One hour after dosing, GER was produced by simultaneous ligation of the pyloric end and the forestomach. Esophageal lesions index (ELI), gastric secretion volume and acidity, and esophageal malondialdehyde (MDA) and sulfhydryl (SH) group concentrations were measured. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05.

RESULTS: As compared to the negative control, the positive control group exhibited increased ELI (5.2 ± 0.33 vs 0 ± 0, P = 0.0003), gastric secretion volume (2.69 ± 0.09 vs 0.1 ± 0.0, P = 0.0003) and acidity (238 ± 19.37 vs 120.0 ± 5.77, P = 0.001), and esophageal concentrations of MDA (2.56 ± 0.1 vs 1.76 ± 0.28, P = 0.001) and SH groups (1.02 ± 0.05 vs 0.56 ± 0.08, P = 0.0003). D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg) reduced ELI (3.36 ± 0.31, 2.90 ± 0.46 and 2.8 ± 0.23, respectively) vs the positive control (5.2 ± 0.33) (P = 0.004; P = 0.002; P = 0.001, respectively). There were no significant changes in acidity with D-002 treatment, and only the highest dose reduced the volume of the gastric secretion (1.92 ± 0.25) vs the positive control (2.69 ± 0.09, P = 0.013). D-002 (25, 100 and 200 mg/kg) lowered the esophageal MDA (2.05 ± 0.16, 1.98 ± 0.22 and 1.93 ± 0.22, respectively) (P = 0.01; P = 0.03; P = 0.03, respectively) and SH group concentration (0.87 ± 0.06, 0.79 ± 0.08 and 0.77 ± 0.06, respectively) (P = 0.04; P = 0.04; P = 0.02) vs the positive control (2.56 ± 0.10 and 1.02 ± 0.05, respectively). Omeprazole decreased ELI (2.54 ± 0.47), gastric secretion volume (1.97 ± 0.14) and acidity (158.5 ± 22.79), esophageal MDA (1.87 ± 0.13) and SH group (0.72 ± 0.05) concentrations vs the positive control (P = 0.002; P = 0.001; P = 0.02; P = 0.003; P = 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSION: Acute oral administration of D-002 decreased macroscopic esophageal lesions and oxidative stress in rats with experimentally induced GER, without modifying gastric secretion acidity.

Pea protein provides a promising matrix for microencapsulating iron

Worldwide, the most prevalent nutritional deficiency is iron. The strategies for iron supplementation often fail due to poor adherence to supplementation methods contributed to unpleasant sensory characteristics. An alternative is the use of microencapsulated nutrients for home fortification in order to mask undesirable tastes and to allow its release in strategic sites of the gastrointestinal tract. Toward this end, pea protein concentrate was tested as a natural, edible and alternative material and the spray-drying technique was utilized for the preparation of microparticles containing ferrous sulfate. Their physical and chemical characteristics were evaluated. The microparticles had a spherical shape and grooves with an average size ranging between 2 and 3 μm. Analysis by in vitro assays tested the release of iron in simulated salivary and gastric fluids and its intestinal absorption in Caco-2 cells. No dissolution of iron occurred in the salivary medium whereas the sensory analysis showed good acceptance of a product which incorporated 5.5 mg of iron per 100 g portion of food. Thus, the effectiveness of microencapsulation was demonstrated by utilizing a plant protein as an encapsulating matrix for the controlled release of iron and capable of preserving the bioaccessibility of ferrous sulfate.

[Comparative study of the efficacy of the COBAS TaqMan and LAMP assay for the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis]

OBJECTIVE; The COBAS TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay (TaqMan assay) is a well-accepted and widely distributed molecular-based diagnostic test for tuberculosis. In the present study, we evaluated the efficacy of the LAMP assay (loopamp MTBC detection kit) as an alternative molecular-based diagnostic kit for tuberculosis, through comparison with the TaqMan assay. STUDY PERIOD AND METHODS: This study was conducted over a period of approximately 2 months, between May and July 2012. We collected 48 samples (43 sputum, 2 gastric fluid, 2 pleural fluid, and 1 pus fluid samples) from patients who had been diagnosed with tuberculosis through the culture method, but had not received any treatment for more than one week. All samples were processed using the CC-E pre-treatment reagent (Japan BCG) prior to performing the TaqMan and LAMP assay. For the TaqMan assay, 100 microL of supernatant was used after centrifugation at 1,000 rpm for 1 minute, whereas 60 microL of the precipitate in the same sample was used for the LAMP assay.

RESULTS

In total, 23 out of 48 samples were identified as positive for tuberculosis according to smear microscopy tests, among which 15, 4, and 4 samples had smear test scores or 1+, 2+, and 3+, respectively. All the samples that tested positive in the smear test, regardless of the score, also tested positive in both the TaqMan and TB-LAMP assays (100%). Of the 25 smear-negative samples, we noted that 16 tested positive by the TaqMan assay (64%), whereas 20 tested positive by the LAMP assay (80%).

DISCUSSION

Compared with the TaqMan assay, the LAMP assay showed a higher positive rate among the smear-negative samples. We believe that this is because substances in the samples acted as co-precipitating agents, resulting in the presence of a larger number of bacteria in the precipitates than in the supernatants. Thus, the findings indicate that the application of the LAMP method to precipitates obtained following CC-E pre-treatments may lead to prompt diagnosis of tuberculosis, with a level of sensitivity comparable to that of culture tests.

Contamination by ten harmful elements in toys and children's jewelry bought on the North American market

Toys and children's jewelry may contain metals to which children can be orally exposed. The objectives of this research were (1) to determine total concentrations (TC's) of As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Se in toys and jewelry (n = 72) bought on the North American market and compare TC's to regulatory limits, and (2) to estimate oral metal bioavailability in selected items (n = 4) via bioaccessibility testing. For metallic toys and children's jewelry (n = 24) 20 items had TC's exceeding migratable concentration limits (European Union). Seven of seventeen jewelry items did not comply with TC limits in U.S. and Canadian regulations. Samples included articles with very high Cd (37% [w/w]), Pb (65%), and Cu (71%) concentrations. For plastic toys (n = 18), toys with paint or coating (n = 12), and brittle or pliable toys (n = 18), TC's were below the EU migration limits (except in one toy for each category). Bioaccessibility tests showed that a tested jewelry item strongly leached Pb (gastric: 698 μg, intestinal: 705 μg) and some Cd (1.38 and 1.42 μg). Especially in metallic toys and jewelry, contamination by Pb and Cd, and to a lesser extent by Cu, Ni, As, and Sb, still poses an acute problem in North America.

Membrane-directed high bactericidal activity of (gold nanoparticle)-polythiophene composite for niche applications against pathogenic bacteria

The use of nanoscale materials as bactericidal agents represents a novel paradigm in the development of therapeutics against drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. In this paper the antimicrobial activity of a water soluble (gold nanoparticle)-polythiophene (AuNP-PTh) composite against common bacterial pathogens is reported. The nanocomposite is broad-spectrum in its bactericidal activity and exhibits a membrane-directed mode of action on target pathogens. The therapeutic potency of AuNP-PTh is demonstrated by experiments which reveal that the nanocomposite can breach the outer membrane defense barrier of Gram-negative pathogens for subsequent killing by a hydrophobic antibiotic, inhibit the growth of model gastrointestinal pathogens in simulated gastric fluid, and significantly eradicate bacterial biofilms. The high bacterial selectivity and lack of cytotoxicity on human cells augers well for future therapeutic application of the nanocomposite against clinically relevant pathogenic bacteria.

Micronutrients-incorporated calcium phosphate particles with protective effect on osteoporotic bone tissue

BACKGROUND

Supplementation of individual micronutrient is inadequate for maintaining bone function because single micronutrient can not contribute significantly a positive remodeling balance.

OBJECTIVE

We developed the highly integrated, stably dietary multi-micronutrients with good bioavailability and low adverse effect on the improvement of bone consolidation in osteoporosis.

METHODS

The trace element-codoped calcium phosphate (teCaP) particles were prepared in the modified body fluid and carefully evaluated. Rats, aged 3 months, were ovariectomized and when 6 month intervened with the conditioned, low, moderate, and high teCaP diets.

RESULTS

The teCaP particles showed highly dissolvable in stomach juice-mimicing acidic solutions. Three months after intervention, the body weight increase showed remarkable differences among the low teCaP diet (~52 g), moderate teCaP diet (~34 g) and high teCaP diet (~23 g) group. In particular, the intake of moderate teCaP greatly improved the retention of trace elements in femural bone for better protection against the skeletal weakening, and resulted in a significant increase of bone mineral density (104.06%) in comparison with the conventional high calcium plus vitamin D3 diet (Control group).

CONCLUSIONS

These investigations improve our understanding of micronutrient retention on bone consolidation in osteoporotic bone tissue, and also provide new mild wet-chemical approach to prepare potent nutritionally effective edible complements to synergistically relieve bone degeneration and prevent osteoporosis.

Prebiotic activity of polysaccharides extracted from Gigantochloa levis (Buluh beting) shoots

Bamboo shoot crude polysaccharides (BSCP) extracted from the shoots of Gigantochloa levis gave about 3.27 ± 0.18% on dry basis and a very minute percentage of protein (0.02 ± 0.01%). The molecular weight of BSCP estimated by gel chromatography was found to be around 7.49 × 10³ Da, while the molecular weights of purified fractions (F1 to F5) were around 1550.96, 1471.63, 1685.78, 1691.61 and 1551.67 Da, respectively. The FTIR spectrum of BSCP revealed the possibility that the extract contains β-glucan, which can be considered a valuable compound for the medical and food industries. These relate to the resistance of BSCP towards artificial human gastric juice which is more than 99%. Prebiotic activity tested using BSCP as a carbon source showed significant increase in the growth of B. animalis ATCC 1053, B. longum BB 536 and L. acidophilus ATCC 4356 as compared to the use of FOS. Survivality of S. choleraesuis JCM 6977 was found to be slower in both BSCP and FOS. Study conducted reflects a good sign for the BSCP to be exploited as a promising prebiotic.

[Investigation of the Hounsfield number of drugs in stomach using computed tomography in vitro]

BACKGROUND

A high density area (HDA) that may represent ingested drugs was detected in the stomach of a patient with a drug overdose (OD) by computed tomography (CT). However, there is no prior evidence that drugs can be visualized as an HDA by abdominal CT. We investigated whether drugs can be imaged as an HDA by CT.

METHODS

Ten tablets, 5 tablets, 1 tablet and 0.1 tablet of either Solanax (0.4 mg) or Depas (0.5 mg) or Tryptanol (10 mg) or Paxil (10 mg) or Wintermin (25 mg) or Phenobal (30 mg) or Hiberna (25 mg) were each added to 10 ml of artificial gastric juice. We then measured the Hounsfield numbers immediately after mixing, 1 hour later and 7 hours later using CT images.

RESULTS

All of the drugs precipitated in the artificial gastric juice and these precipitations were imaged as HDAs over 100 Hounsfield units. Moreover, the drugs maintained high Hounsfield numbers after 7 hours although there was a trend to decrease sequentially.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that the precipitated drugs in the artificial gastric juice could be imaged as HDAs by CT.