Journal Description
Nutrients
Nutrients
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of human nutrition published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Asia Pacific Nutrigenomics Nutrigenetics Organisation (APNNO), Italian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP), Nutrition Society of New Zealand (NSNZ), Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) and others are affiliated with Nutrients and their members receive a discount on article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Nutrition & Dietetics) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nutrition and Dietetics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journal: Dietetics
Impact Factor:
5.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
6.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
Characterizations of White Mulberry, Sea-Buckthorn, Garlic, Lily of the Valley, Motherwort, and Hawthorn as Potential Candidates for Managing Cardiovascular Disease—In Vitro and Ex Vivo Animal Studies
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1313; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091313 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are a broadly understood concept focusing on vascular and heart dysfunction. Lack of physical exercise, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, thromboembolism, and kidney and lung diseases all contribute to the development of heart and blood vessel dysfunction. Although effective and
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Cardiovascular diseases are a broadly understood concept focusing on vascular and heart dysfunction. Lack of physical exercise, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, thromboembolism, and kidney and lung diseases all contribute to the development of heart and blood vessel dysfunction. Although effective and important, traditional treatment with diuretics, statins, beta blockers, calcium inhibitors, ACE inhibitors, and anti-platelet drugs remains a second-line treatment after dietary interventions and lifestyle changes. Scientists worldwide are still looking for an herbal product that would be effective and free from side effects, either taken together with or before the standard pharmacological intervention. Such herbal-originated medication therapy may include Morus alba L. (white mulberry), Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson (sea-buckthorn), Allium sativum L. (garlic), Convallaria majalis L. (lily of the valley), Leonurus cardiaca L. (motherwort), and Crataegus spp. (hawthorn). Valuable herbal raw materials include leaves, fruits, seeds, and even thorns. This short review focuses on six herbs that can constitute an interesting and potential therapeutic option in the management of cardiovascular disorders.
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(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
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Expanding Fortification with Folic Acid: Thinking Outside the Cereal-Grain Box
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Becky L. Tsang, Carlen Stadnik, Michelle Duong, Helena Pachón and Homero Martinez
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1312; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091312 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Fortifying maize and wheat flours with folic acid has effectively reduced neural tube defect-affected births. However, maize and wheat flours may not be widely consumed in all countries; further reduction in neural tube defect-affected births could benefit from the identification of
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(1) Background: Fortifying maize and wheat flours with folic acid has effectively reduced neural tube defect-affected births. However, maize and wheat flours may not be widely consumed in all countries; further reduction in neural tube defect-affected births could benefit from the identification of alternative food vehicles. We aimed to use dietary intake or apparent consumption data to determine alternative food vehicles for large-scale fortification with folic acid in low-income and lower-middle-income countries (LILMICs) and identify current research related to examining the technological feasibility of fortifying alternative foods with folic acid. (2) Methods: We identified 81 LILMICs, defined by the World Bank’s (WB) 2018 income classifications. To identify dietary intake or apparent consumption, we reviewed WB’s Microdata Library and Global Health Data Exchange for national surveys from 1997–2018. We reviewed survey reports for dietary intake or apparent consumption data and analyzed survey datasets for population coverage of foods. We defined alternative food vehicles as those that may cover/be consumed by >30% of the population or households; cereal grains (maize and wheat flours and rice) were included as an alternative food vehicle if a country did not have existing mandatory fortification legislation. To identify current research on fortification with folic acid in foods other than cereal grains, we conducted a systematic review of published literature and unpublished theses, and screened for foods or food products. (3) Results: We extracted or analyzed data from 18 national surveys and countries. The alternative foods most represented in the surveys were oil (n = 16), sugar (n = 16), and salt (n = 14). The coverage of oil ranged from 33.2 to 95.7%, sugar from 32.2 to 98.4%, and salt from 49.8 to 99.9%. We found 34 eligible studies describing research on alternative foods. The most studied alternative foods for fortification with folic acid were dairy products (n = 10), salt (n = 6), and various fruit juices (n = 5). (4) Conclusions: Because of their high coverage, oil, sugar, and salt emerge as potential alternative foods for large-scale fortification with folic acid. However, except for salt, there are limited or no studies examining the technological feasibility of fortifying these foods with folic acid.
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(This article belongs to the Section Micronutrients and Human Health)
Open AccessArticle
Differential Modulation by Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) of Mesenteric Fat and Macrophages and T Cells in Adipose Tissue of Obese fa/fa Zucker Rats
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Lena Hong, Peter Zahradka and Carla G. Taylor
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1311; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091311 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can alter adipose tissue function; however, the relative effects of plant and marine n3-PUFAs are less clear. Our objective was to directly compare the n3-PUFAs, plant-based α-linolenic acid (ALA) in flaxseed oil, and marine-based eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic
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Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can alter adipose tissue function; however, the relative effects of plant and marine n3-PUFAs are less clear. Our objective was to directly compare the n3-PUFAs, plant-based α-linolenic acid (ALA) in flaxseed oil, and marine-based eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in high-purity oils versus n6-PUFA containing linoleic acid (LA) for their effects on the adipose tissue and oral glucose tolerance of obese rats. Male fa/fa Zucker rats were assigned to faALA, faEPA, faDHA, and faLA groups and compared to baseline fa/fa rats (faBASE) and lean Zucker rats (lnLA). After 8 weeks, faEPA and faDHA had 11–14% lower body weight than faLA. The oral glucose tolerance and total body fat were unchanged, but faEPA had less mesenteric fat. faEPA and faDHA had fewer large adipocytes compared to faLA and faALA. EPA reduced macrophages in the adipose tissue of fa/fa rats compared to ALA and DHA, while faLA had the greatest macrophage infiltration. DHA decreased (~10-fold) T-cell infiltration compared to faBASE and faEPA, whereas faALA and faLA had an ~40% increase. The n3-PUFA diets attenuated tumour necrosis factor-α in adipose tissue compared to faBASE, while it was increased by LA in both genotypes. In conclusion, EPA and DHA target different aspects of inflammation in adipose tissue.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Obesity)
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Open AccessArticle
Triglyceride to HDL Cholesterol Ratio for the Identification of MASLD in Obesity: A Liver Biopsy-Based Case-Control Study
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José Ignacio Martínez-Montoro, María Antonia Martínez-Sánchez, Andrés Balaguer-Román, Virginia Esperanza Fernández-Ruiz, José Emilio Hernández-Barceló, Mercedes Ferrer-Gómez, María Dolores Frutos, María Ángeles Núñez-Sánchez, José Carlos Fernández-García and Bruno Ramos-Molina
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1310; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091310 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Associations between dyslipidemia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have been reported. Previous studies have shown that the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio may be a surrogate marker of MASLD, assessed by liver ultrasound. However, no studies have evaluated the
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Associations between dyslipidemia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have been reported. Previous studies have shown that the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio may be a surrogate marker of MASLD, assessed by liver ultrasound. However, no studies have evaluated the utility of this ratio according to biopsy-proven MASLD and its stages. Therefore, our aim was to evaluate if the TG/HDL-C ratio allows for the identification of biopsy-proven MASLD in patients with obesity. We conducted a case-control study in 153 patients with obesity who underwent metabolic surgery and had a concomitant liver biopsy. Fifty-three patients were classified as no MASLD, 45 patients as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver—MASL, and 55 patients as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis—MASH. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess the accuracy of the TG/HDL-C ratio to detect MASLD. We also compared the area under the curve (AUC) of the TG/HDL-C ratio, serum TG, and HDL-C. A higher TG/HDL-C ratio was observed among patients with MASLD, compared with patients without MASLD. No differences in the TG/HDL-C ratio were found between participants with MASL and MASH. The greatest AUC was observed for the TG/HDL-C ratio (AUC 0.747, p < 0.001) with a cut-off point of 3.7 for detecting MASLD (sensitivity = 70%; specificity = 74.5%). However, no statistically significant differences between the AUC of the TG/HDL-C ratio and TG or HDL-C were observed to detect MASLD. In conclusion, although an elevated TG/HDL-C ratio can be found in patients with MASLD, this marker did not improve the detection of MASLD in our study population, compared with either serum TG or HDL-C.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Lipids and Lipoproteins in Health)
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Blood Cadmium Level Is a Marker of Cancer Risk in Men
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Róża Derkacz, Wojciech Marciniak, Piotr Baszuk, Monika Wysokińska, Natalia Chrzanowska, Marcin Lener, Tomasz Huzarski, Jacek Gronwald, Tadeusz Dębniak, Cezary Cybulski, Anna Jakubowska, Rodney J. Scott and Jan Lubiński
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091309 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a known carcinogen, but its impact on cancer risk at lower concentrations is poorly understood. Previous studies on Cd and cancer risk in men show inconsistent results, prompting further investigation. A prospective cohort study involving 2956 men was conducted. Blood
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Cadmium (Cd) is a known carcinogen, but its impact on cancer risk at lower concentrations is poorly understood. Previous studies on Cd and cancer risk in men show inconsistent results, prompting further investigation. A prospective cohort study involving 2956 men was conducted. Blood Cd levels were measured, and participants were followed for 78 months to assess cancer incidence. Men with high blood Cd levels (>0.71 µg/L) had a significantly increased risk of cancer compared to those with low levels (<0.19 µg/L) (HR 3.42, p < 0.001), particularly among non-smokers (HR 3.74, p = 0.003), individuals aged < 60 years (HR 2.79, p = 0.017), and ≥60 (HR 4.63, p = 0.004). The influence of smoking on cancer risk based on Cd levels was not significant in this study. Blood Cd levels may influence cancer risk in men, emphasizing the importance of minimizing Cd exposure to reduce risk. Confirmation of these results in other populations is essential for effective preventive measures against Cd-related cancers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nutrition and Supplementation in Cancer Risk and Progression)
Open AccessArticle
Social Media for Nutrition Education—A Randomized Controlled Trial to Promote Fruit and Vegetable Intake in a University Setting: “The University of Valladolid Community Eats Healthy” Study
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Laura Carreño Enciso, Beatriz de Mateo Silleras, Sandra de la Cruz Marcos and Paz Redondo del Río
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1308; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091308 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Social media- and internet-based interventions are nowadays widely used tools in health interventions. Although evidence of their effectiveness is still low, their applications could be very promising due to their affordability and wide reach. The current paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of
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Social media- and internet-based interventions are nowadays widely used tools in health interventions. Although evidence of their effectiveness is still low, their applications could be very promising due to their affordability and wide reach. The current paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention program, “The University of Valladolid Community Eats Healthy” (UVEH), to increase fruit and vegetable (FV) intake in adults from the University of Valladolid (U. Valladolid) employing three online methodologies. A sample of 211 volunteers was randomly assigned into four groups: virtual campus (VC), Facebook (FB), Instagram (IG), and control. An intervention based on the Theory of Planned Behavior was implemented for seven weeks. Data were collected at the beginning (T0) and the end of the program (T1). The Predimed questionnaire was employed to assess FV intake. Vegetable intake was statistically significantly higher in the VC group (17.4% pre vs. 72.7% post). In the rest of the groups, there was also an increase in intake. Fruit consumption increased slightly only in the VC group (23.9% pre vs. 45.5% post). Participation decreased through the weeks: FB (week 2), IG (week 3), and VC (week 4). Retention was higher in the VC (48%) and control (60%) groups. Internet-based interventions employing interactive platforms such as virtual campus can be effective in enhancing participants’ dietary habits in a clinically relevant manner.
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(This article belongs to the Topic The Promotion and Development of Community Health for Personal Health: Theories and Applications)
Open AccessArticle
Cardiovascular Disease Burden Attributable to High Sodium Intake in China: A Longitudinal Study from 1990 to 2019
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Liying Jiang, Wanying Shen, Anqi Wang, Haiqin Fang, Qihe Wang, Huzhong Li, Sana Liu, Yi Shen and Aidong Liu
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1307; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091307 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Overconsumption of sodium has been identified as a key driving factor for diet-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). China, being a country bearing a hefty burden of CVD, has a large population with diverse cultural traditions and ethnic beliefs, which complicates the patterns of
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Background: Overconsumption of sodium has been identified as a key driving factor for diet-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). China, being a country bearing a hefty burden of CVD, has a large population with diverse cultural traditions and ethnic beliefs, which complicates the patterns of dietary sodium intake, necessitating a systematic investigation into the profile of the high sodium intake (HSI)-related burden of CVD within its subregions. This study aims to estimate the evolving patterns of HSI-induced CVD burden across China from 1990 to 2019. Methods: The methodology used in the Global Burden of Disease Study was followed to assess deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by age, sex, region, and socio-demographic index (SDI). The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to quantify the secular changes in the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR). Results: In 2019, 0.79 million deaths and 1.93 million DALYs of CVD were attributed to HSI, an increase of 53.91% and 39.39% since 1990, respectively. Nevertheless, a downward trend in ASMR (EAPC: −1.45, 95% CI: −1.55, −1.35) and ASDR (EAPC: −1.61, 95% CI: −1.68, −1.53) was detected over time. ASMR and ASDR were higher for males, individuals aged ≥60 years, and regions with low-middle SDI. A markedly negative association between the EAPC in both ASMR and ASDR and the SDI was found in 2019 (ρ = −0.659, p < 0.001 and ρ = −0.558, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The HSI-induced CVD burden is gender-, age-, and socioeconomic-dependent. Integrated and targeted strategies for CVD prevention are anticipated in the future throughout China.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Association of Dietary Intake with Chronic Disease and Human Health)
Open AccessArticle
Seasonal Variation in Vitamin D Status Does Not Interfere with Improvements in Aerobic and Muscular Endurance in Conscripts during Basic Military Training
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Saima Timpmann, Leho Rips, Indrek Olveti, Martin Mooses, Hanno Mölder, Ahti Varblane, Hele-Reet Lille, Helena Gapeyeva and Vahur Ööpik
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1306; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091306 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Considering a lack of respective data, the primary objective of this study was to assess whether seasonal variation in vitamin D status (D-status) affects the extent of improvement in physical performance (PP) in conscripts during basic military training (BMT). D-status, PP and several
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Considering a lack of respective data, the primary objective of this study was to assess whether seasonal variation in vitamin D status (D-status) affects the extent of improvement in physical performance (PP) in conscripts during basic military training (BMT). D-status, PP and several blood parameters were measured repeatedly in conscripts whose 10-week BMT started in July (cohort S-C; n = 96) or in October (cohort A-C; n = 107). D-status during BMT was higher in S-C compared to A-C (overall serum 25(OH)D 61.4 ± 16.1 and 48.5 ± 20.7 nmol/L, respectively; p < 0.0001). Significant (p < 0.05) improvements in both aerobic and muscular endurance occurred in both cohorts during BMT. Pooled data of the two cohorts revealed a highly reliable (p = 0.000) but weak (R2 = 0.038–0.162) positive association between D-status and PP measures both at the beginning and end of BMT. However, further analysis showed that such a relationship occurred only in conscripts with insufficient or deficient D-status, but not in their vitamin D-sufficient companions. Significant (p < 0.05) increases in serum testosterone-to-cortisol ratio and decreases in ferritin levels occurred during BMT. In conclusion, a positive association exists between D-status and PP measures, but seasonal variation in D-status does not influence the extent of improvement in PP in conscripts during BMT.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)
Open AccessArticle
Echinacea purpurea Polysaccharide Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis by Restoring the Intestinal Microbiota and Inhibiting the TLR4-NF-κB Axis
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Fan-Hao Wei, Wen-Yin Xie, Pei-Sen Zhao, Wei Gao and Fei Gao
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1305; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091305 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic intestinal ailment which cannot be completely cured. The occurrence of UC has been on the rise in recent years, which is highly detrimental to patients. The effectiveness of conventional drug treatment is limited. The long-term usage of
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Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic intestinal ailment which cannot be completely cured. The occurrence of UC has been on the rise in recent years, which is highly detrimental to patients. The effectiveness of conventional drug treatment is limited. The long-term usage of these agents can lead to substantial adverse effects. Therefore, the development of a safe and efficient dietary supplement is important for the prevention of UC. Echinacea purpurea polysaccharide (EPP) is one of the main bioactive substances in Echinacea purpurea. EPP has many favorable effects, such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. However, whether EPP can prevent or alleviate UC is still unclear. This study aims to analyze the effect and mechanism of EPP on UC in mice using a 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC model. The results showed that dietary supplementation with 200 mg/kg EPP significantly alleviated the shortening of colon length, weight loss, and histopathological damage in DSS-induced colitis mice. Mechanistically, EPP significantly inhibits the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and preserves the intestinal mechanical barrier integrity by enhancing the expression of claudin-1, ZO-1, and occludin and reducing the loss of goblet cells. Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that EPP intervention reduced the abundance of Bacteroides, Escherichia–Shigella, and Klebsiella; the abundance of Lactobacillus increased. The results of nontargeted metabonomics showed that EPP reshaped metabolism. In this study, we clarified the effect of EPP on UC, revealed the potential function of EPP, and supported the use of polysaccharide dietary supplements for UC prevention.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemicals and Human Health)
Open AccessArticle
Gene Methylation Affects Salivary Levels of the Taste Buds’ Trophic Factor, Gustin Protein
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Melania Melis, Eleonora Loi, Mariano Mastinu, Lala Chaimae Naciri, Patrizia Zavattari and Iole Tomassini Barbarossa
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1304; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091304 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The salivary protein, Gustin/carbonic anhydrase VI, has been described as a trophic factor responsible for the growth of taste buds. We found, in a genetically homogeneous population, that the polymorphism rs2274333 (A/G) of the Gustin gene is crucial for the full functionality of
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The salivary protein, Gustin/carbonic anhydrase VI, has been described as a trophic factor responsible for the growth of taste buds. We found, in a genetically homogeneous population, that the polymorphism rs2274333 (A/G) of the Gustin gene is crucial for the full functionality of the protein and is associated with taste sensitivity. However, other studies have failed to find this evidence. Here, we verified if Gustin gene methylation can affect the salivary levels of the protein, also concerning the polymorphism rs2274333 and PROP bitter responsiveness. The Gustin gene methylation profiling and the quantification of the Gustin salivary levels were determined in sixty-six volunteers genotyped for the polymorphism rs2274333 (A/G) (Ser90Gly in the protein sequence). The fungiform papillae density was also determined. The results confirm our earlier observations by showing that AA genotypes had a greater density of fungiform taste papillae, whereas the GG genotypes showed a lower density. We also found variations in the protein levels in the three genotype groups and an inverse relationship between Gustin gene methylation and the salivary levels of the protein, mostly evident in AA and ST volunteers, i.e., in volunteers who would be carriers of the functional isoform of the protein. These findings could justify the conflicting data in the literature.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue How the Taste Sense Influences Our Eating Behavior and Health: Genetic and Non-genetic Factors)
Open AccessArticle
Neonatal Vitamin D and Associations with Longitudinal Changes of Eczema up to 25 Years of Age
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Rong Zeng, Caroline J. Lodge, Jennifer J. Koplin, Diego J. Lopez, Bircan Erbas, Michael J. Abramson, Darryl Eyles, Anne-Louise Ponsonby, Matthias Wjst, Katrina Allen, Shyamali C. Dharmage and Adrian J. Lowe
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1303; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091303 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Early-life vitamin D is a potentially modifiable risk factor for the development of eczema, but there is a lack of data on longitudinal associations. Method: We measured 25(OH)D3 levels from neonatal dried blood spots in 223 high-allergy-risk children. Latent class analysis was
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Background: Early-life vitamin D is a potentially modifiable risk factor for the development of eczema, but there is a lack of data on longitudinal associations. Method: We measured 25(OH)D3 levels from neonatal dried blood spots in 223 high-allergy-risk children. Latent class analysis was used to define longitudinal eczema phenotype up to 25 years (4 subclasses). Skin prick tests (SPTs) to 6 allergens and eczema outcomes at 6 time points were used to define eczema/sensitization phenotypes. Associations between 25(OH)D3 and prevalent eczema and eczema phenotypes were assessed using logistic regression models. Results: Median 25(OH)D3 level was 32.5 nmol/L (P25-P75 = 23.1 nmol/L). Each 10 nmol/L increase in neonatal 25(OH)D3 was associated with a 26% reduced odds of early-onset persistent eczema (adjusted multinomial odds ratio (aMOR) = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.56–0.98) and 30% increased odds of early-onset-resolving eczema (aMOR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.05–1.62) when compared to minimal/no eczema up to 12 years. Similar associations were seen for eczema phenotype up to 25 years. We did not see any strong evidence for the association between neonatal 25(OH)D3 and prevalent eczema or eczema/sensitization phenotype. Conclusions: Higher neonatal 25(OH)D3 levels, a reflection of maternal vitamin D levels in pregnancy, may reduce the risk of early-onset persistent eczema.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin D Deficiency and Maternal and Infant Health and Disease)
Open AccessArticle
Oleocanthal Protects C2C12 Myotubes against the Pro-Catabolic and Anti-Myogenic Action of Stimuli Able to Induce Muscle Wasting In Vivo
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Daniela De Stefanis, Andrea Balestrini and Paola Costelli
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091302 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Oleocanthal (OC) is a monophenol of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) endowed with antibiotic, cardioprotective and anticancer effects, among others, mainly in view of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. OC has been largely investigated in terms of its anticancer activity, in Alzheimer disease and
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Oleocanthal (OC) is a monophenol of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) endowed with antibiotic, cardioprotective and anticancer effects, among others, mainly in view of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. OC has been largely investigated in terms of its anticancer activity, in Alzheimer disease and in collagen-induced arthritis; however, the possibility that it can also affect muscle biology has been totally overlooked so far. This study is the first to describe that OC modulates alterations induced in C2C12 myotubes by stimuli known to induce muscle wasting in vivo, namely TNF-α, or in the medium conditioned by the C26 cachexia-inducing tumor (CM-C26). C2C12 myotubes were exposed to CM-C26 or TNF-α in the presence or absence of OC for 24 and 48 h and analyzed by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. In combination with TNF-α or CM-C26, OC was revealed to be able to restore both the myotube’s original size and morphology and normal levels of both atrogin-1 and MuRF1. OC seems unable to impinge on the autophagic–lysosomal proteolytic system or protein synthesis. Modulations towards normal levels of the expression of molecules involved in myogenesis, such as Pax7, myogenin and MyHC, were also observed in the myotube cultures exposed to OC and TNF-α or CM-C26. In conclusion, the data presented here show that OC exerts a protective action in C2C12 myotubes exposed to TNF-α or CM-C26, with mechanisms likely involving the downregulation of ubiquitin–proteasome-dependent proteolysis and the partial relief of myogenic differentiation impairment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates on the Dietary Bioavailability of Plant Bioactives: Its Potential Advantages, Application, and Overall Health)
Open AccessArticle
Estimation of the Impact of Abdominal Adipose Tissue (Subcutaneous and Visceral) on the Occurrence of Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Disorders in Patients with Obesity—A Pilot Study
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Katarzyna Witczak-Sawczuk, Lucyna Ostrowska, Urszula Cwalina, Joanna Leszczyńska, Marta Jastrzębska-Mierzyńska and Marcin Krzysztof Hładuński
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091301 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Obesity represents a significant global public health concern. The excessive accumulation of abdominal adipose tissue is often implicated in the development of metabolic complications associated with obesity. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of particular deposits of abdominal adipose tissue on the
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Obesity represents a significant global public health concern. The excessive accumulation of abdominal adipose tissue is often implicated in the development of metabolic complications associated with obesity. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of particular deposits of abdominal adipose tissue on the occurrence of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism complications. We established cut-off points for visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and the VAT/SAT ratio at which selected metabolic complications of obesity-related diseases (disorders of carbohydrate and/or lipid metabolism) occur. We conducted an observational study involving 91 subjects with first- and second-degree obesity, accounting for gender differences. Anthropometric measurements were taken, body composition analysis (BIA) was conducted, and biochemical determinations were made. Our findings suggest that commonly used parameters for assessing early metabolic risk, such as BMI or waist circumference, may overlook the significant factor of body fat distribution, as well as gender differences. Both visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue were found to be important in estimating metabolic risk. We identified the cut-off points in women in terms of their elevated fasting glucose levels and the presence of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR: homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance) based on SAT, VAT, and the VAT/SAT ratio. In men, cut-off points were determined for the presence of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) based on VAT and the VAT/SAT ratio. However, the results regarding lipid disorders were inconclusive, necessitating further investigation of a larger population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Nutritional Behavior and Nutritional Status)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of Synbiotic Intake on Liver Metabolism in Metabolically Healthy Participants and Its Potential Preventive Effect on Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD): A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial
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Aakash Mantri, Anika Köhlmoos, Daniela Stephanie Schelski, Waldemar Seel, Birgit Stoffel-Wagner, Peter Krawitz, Peter Stehle, Jens Juul Holst, Bernd Weber, Leonie Koban, Hilke Plassmann and Marie-Christine Simon
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1300; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091300 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Synbiotics modulate the gut microbiome and contribute to the prevention of liver diseases such as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded seven-week intervention trial on the liver metabolism in 117 metabolically healthy
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Synbiotics modulate the gut microbiome and contribute to the prevention of liver diseases such as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded seven-week intervention trial on the liver metabolism in 117 metabolically healthy male participants. Anthropometric data, blood parameters, and stool samples were analyzed using linear mixed models. After seven weeks of intervention, there was a significant reduction in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the synbiotic group compared to the placebo group (−14.92%, CI: −26.60–−3.23%, p = 0.013). A stratified analysis according to body fat percentage revealed a significant decrease in ALT (−20.70%, CI: −40.88–−0.53%, p = 0.045) in participants with an elevated body fat percentage. Further, a significant change in microbiome composition (1.16, CI: 0.06–2.25, p = 0.039) in this group was found, while the microbial composition remained stable upon intervention in the group with physiological body fat. The 7-week synbiotic intervention reduced ALT levels, especially in participants with an elevated body fat percentage, possibly due to modulation of the gut microbiome. Synbiotic intake may be helpful in delaying the progression of MAFLD and could be used in addition to the recommended lifestyle modification therapy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Prebiotics, Probiotics on Dysbiosis of Gut Microbiota and Gut Health)
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Effects of sn-2 Palmitic Triacylglycerols and the Ratio of OPL to OPO in Human Milk Fat Substitute on Metabolic Regulation in Sprague-Dawley Rats
by
Lin Zhu, Shuaizhen Fang, Yaqiong Zhang, Xiangjun Sun, Puyu Yang, Weiying Lu and Liangli Yu
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091299 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In this study, the influence of total sn-2 palmitic triacylglycerols (TAGs) and ratio of 1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoylglycerol (OPL) to 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) in human milk fat substitute (HMFS) on the metabolic changes were investigated in Sprague–Dawley rats. Metabolomics and lipidomics profiling analysis indicated that increasing
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In this study, the influence of total sn-2 palmitic triacylglycerols (TAGs) and ratio of 1-oleoyl-2-palmitoyl-3-linoleoylglycerol (OPL) to 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) in human milk fat substitute (HMFS) on the metabolic changes were investigated in Sprague–Dawley rats. Metabolomics and lipidomics profiling analysis indicated that increasing the total sn-2 palmitic TAGs and OPL to OPO ratio in HMFS could significantly influence glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, bile acid biosynthesis, and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism pathways in rats after 4 weeks of feeding, which were mainly related to lipid, bile acid and energy metabolism. Meanwhile, the up-regulation of taurine, L-tryptophan, and L-cysteine, and down-regulations of lysoPC (18:0) and hypoxanthine would contribute to the reduction in inflammatory response and oxidative stress, and improvement of immunity function in rats. In addition, analysis of targeted biochemical factors also revealed that HMFS-fed rats had significantly increased levels of anti-inflammatory factor (IL-4), immunoglobulin A (IgA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px), and decreased levels of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α) and malondialdehyde (MDA), compared with those of the control fat-fed rats. Collectively, these observations present new in vivo nutritional evidence for the metabolic regulatory effects of the TAG structure and composition of human milk fat substitutes on the host.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Components and Their Modulation of Metabolism)
Open AccessReview
Exploiting Natural Niches with Neuroprotective Properties: A Comprehensive Review
by
Hind Moukham, Alessia Lambiase, Giovanni Davide Barone, Farida Tripodi and Paola Coccetti
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091298 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Natural products from mushrooms, plants, microalgae, and cyanobacteria have been intensively explored and studied for their preventive or therapeutic potential. Among age-related pathologies, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases) represent a worldwide health and social problem. Since several pathological mechanisms are
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Natural products from mushrooms, plants, microalgae, and cyanobacteria have been intensively explored and studied for their preventive or therapeutic potential. Among age-related pathologies, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases) represent a worldwide health and social problem. Since several pathological mechanisms are associated with neurodegeneration, promising strategies against neurodegenerative diseases are aimed to target multiple processes. These approaches usually avoid premature cell death and the loss of function of damaged neurons. This review focuses attention on the preventive and therapeutic potential of several compounds derived from natural sources, which could be exploited for their neuroprotective effect. Curcumin, resveratrol, ergothioneine, and phycocyanin are presented as examples of successful approaches, with a special focus on possible strategies to improve their delivery to the brain.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health)
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Cognitive Function, Healthy Lifestyle, and All-Cause Mortality among Chinese Older Adults: A Longitudinal Prospective Study
by
Huiwen Li, Yi Zheng, Qi Li and Mengying Wang
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1297; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091297 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Both cognitive decline and unhealthy lifestyles have been linked to an elevated risk of mortality in older people. We aimed to investigate whether a healthy lifestyle might modify the association between cognitive function and all-cause mortality in Chinese older populations. Methods: The
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Background: Both cognitive decline and unhealthy lifestyles have been linked to an elevated risk of mortality in older people. We aimed to investigate whether a healthy lifestyle might modify the association between cognitive function and all-cause mortality in Chinese older populations. Methods: The final analysis included 5124 individuals free of dementia, selected from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey from 2011 to 2018. Cognitive function was assessed in 2011 using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). A lifestyle score was calculated based on five lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, diet, and body mass index. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to evaluate the association between baseline cognitive function and the risk of all-cause mortality, with an interaction term of cognitive function and lifestyle score being added to the models. Results: The average age of participants was 81.87 years old at baseline. During a median follow-up of 6.4 years, 1461 deaths were documented. Both higher cognitive function (HR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.96–0.97) and a healthier lifestyle (HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.87–0.97) were significantly associated with a reduced risk of mortality. We found that lifestyle significantly modified the association of cognitive function with mortality (p for interaction = 0.004). The inverse relation between cognitive function and mortality was found to be more pronounced among participants with a healthier lifestyle. Of note, among the lifestyle scores component, diet showed a significant interaction with mortality (p for interaction = 0.003), and the protective HR of the all-cause mortality associated with higher MMSE scores was more prominent among participants with healthy diets compared with unhealthy diets. Conclusions: Our study indicates that cognitive decline is associated with a higher risk of mortality, and such associations are attenuated by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a particular emphasis on healthy diet.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Diseases Risk: From Nutritional Epidemiology Perspective)
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Open AccessArticle
Deciphering the Interplay between Genetic Risk Scores and Lifestyle Factors on Individual Obesity Predisposition
by
Danyel Chermon and Ruth Birk
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091296 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Obesity’s variability is significantly influenced by the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. We aimed to integrate the combined impact of genetic risk score (GRSBMI) with physical activity (PA), sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), wine intake, and eating habits score (EHS) on obesity
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Obesity’s variability is significantly influenced by the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. We aimed to integrate the combined impact of genetic risk score (GRSBMI) with physical activity (PA), sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), wine intake, and eating habits score (EHS) on obesity predisposition risk. Adults’ (n = 5824) data were analyzed for common obesity-related single nucleotide polymorphisms and lifestyle habits. The weighted GRSBMI was constructed and categorized into quartiles (Qs), and the adjusted multivariate logistic regression models examined the association of GRSBMI with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) and lifestyle factors. GRSBMI was significantly associated with obesity risk. Each GRSBMI unit was associated with an increase of 3.06 BMI units (p ≤ 0.0001). PA markedly reduced obesity risk across GRSBMI Qs. Inactive participants’ (≥90 min/week) mean BMI was higher in GRSBMI Q3–Q4 compared to Q1 (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). Scoring EHS ≥ median, SSBs (≥1 cup/day), and non-wine drinking were associated with higher BMI within all GRSBMI Qs compared to EHS < median, non-SSBs, and non-wine drinkers. Mean BMI was higher in GRSBMI Q4 compared to other quartiles (p < 0.0001) in non-wine drinkers and compared to Q1 for SSB’s consumers (p = 0.07). A higher GRSBMI augmented the impact of lifestyle factors on obesity. The interplay between GRSBMI and modifiable lifestyle factors provides a tailored personalized prevention and treatment for obesity management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics)
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Open AccessArticle
Diet and Meal Pattern Determinants of Glucose Levels and Variability in Adults with and without Prediabetes or Early-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Study
by
Leinys S. Santos-Báez, Diana A. Díaz-Rizzolo, Collin J. Popp, Delaney Shaw, Keenan S. Fine, Annemarie Altomare, Marie-Pierre St-Onge, Emily N. C. Manoogian, Satchidananda Panda, Bin Cheng and Blandine Laferrère
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091295 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This observational pilot study examined the association between diet, meal pattern and glucose over a 2-week period under free-living conditions in 26 adults with dysglycemia (D-GLYC) and 14 with normoglycemia (N-GLYC). We hypothesized that a prolonged eating window and late eating occasions (EOs),
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This observational pilot study examined the association between diet, meal pattern and glucose over a 2-week period under free-living conditions in 26 adults with dysglycemia (D-GLYC) and 14 with normoglycemia (N-GLYC). We hypothesized that a prolonged eating window and late eating occasions (EOs), along with a higher dietary carbohydrate intake, would result in higher glucose levels and glucose variability (GV). General linear models were run with meal timing with time-stamped photographs in real time, and diet composition by dietary recalls, and their variability (SD), as predictors and glucose variables (mean glucose, mean amplitude of glucose excursions [MAGE], largest amplitude of glucose excursions [LAGE] and GV) as dependent variables. After adjusting for calories and nutrients, a later eating midpoint predicted a lower GV (β = −2.3, SE = 1.0, p = 0.03) in D-GLYC, while a later last EO predicted a higher GV (β = 1.5, SE = 0.6, p = 0.04) in N-GLYC. A higher carbohydrate intake predicted a higher MAGE (β = 0.9, SE = 0.4, p = 0.02) and GV (β = 0.4, SE = 0.2, p = 0.04) in N-GLYC, but not D-GLYC. In summary, our data suggest that meal patterns interact with dietary composition and should be evaluated as potential modifiable determinants of glucose in adults with and without dysglycemia. Future research should evaluate causality with controlled diets.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Glucose Homeostasis—2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Build Deep Neural Network Models to Detect Common Edible Nuts from Photos and Estimate Nutrient Portfolio
by
Ruopeng An, Joshua M. Perez-Cruet, Xi Wang and Yuyi Yang
Nutrients 2024, 16(9), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091294 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nuts are nutrient-dense foods and can be incorporated into a healthy diet. Artificial intelligence-powered diet-tracking apps may promote nut consumption by providing real-time, accurate nutrition information but depend on data and model availability. Our team developed a dataset comprising 1380 photographs, each in
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Nuts are nutrient-dense foods and can be incorporated into a healthy diet. Artificial intelligence-powered diet-tracking apps may promote nut consumption by providing real-time, accurate nutrition information but depend on data and model availability. Our team developed a dataset comprising 1380 photographs, each in RGB color format and with a resolution of 4032 × 3024 pixels. These images feature 11 types of nuts that are commonly consumed. Each photo includes three nut types; each type consists of 2–4 nuts, so 6–9 nuts are in each image. Rectangular bounding boxes were drawn using a visual geometry group (VGG) image annotator to facilitate the identification of each nut, delineating their locations within the images. This approach renders the dataset an excellent resource for training models capable of multi-label classification and object detection, as it was meticulously divided into training, validation, and test subsets. Utilizing transfer learning in Python with the IceVision framework, deep neural network models were adeptly trained to recognize and pinpoint the nuts depicted in the photographs. The ultimate model exhibited a mean average precision of 0.7596 in identifying various nut types within the validation subset and demonstrated a 97.9% accuracy rate in determining the number and kinds of nuts present in the test subset. By integrating specific nutritional data for each type of nut, the model can precisely (with error margins ranging from 0.8 to 2.6%) calculate the combined nutritional content—encompassing total energy, proteins, carbohydrates, fats (total and saturated), fiber, vitamin E, and essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and selenium—of the nuts shown in a photograph. Both the dataset and the model have been made publicly available to foster data exchange and the spread of knowledge. Our research underscores the potential of leveraging photographs for automated nut calorie and nutritional content estimation, paving the way for the creation of dietary tracking applications that offer real-time, precise nutritional insights to encourage nut consumption.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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