http://www.mdpi.com/journal/nutrients Latest open access articles published in Nutrients at http://www.mdpi.com/journal/nutrients http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/413 We conducted a prospective exploration of the temporal course of eating disorder (ED) symptoms in two cohorts of community women. One hundred and twenty-two young women (Cohort 1) identified in a general population based survey with ED symptoms of clinical severity agreed to participate in a 5-year follow-up study. A comparative sample (Cohort 2) of 706 similar aged self-selected college women (221 with disordered eating) was recruited one year later. Both ED groups were given a health literacy package in the first year. ED symptoms, health related quality of life, and psychological distress were assessed annually with the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, the Short Form—12 Health Survey and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, respectively. Forty percent (Cohort 1) and 30.3% (Cohort 2) completed questionnaires at each year of follow-up. In both groups, there was early improvement in ED symptoms which plateaued after the first year, and participants retained high EDE-Q scores at 5 years. BMI increased as expected. Mental health related quality of life scores did not change but there were small improvements in psychological distress scores. The findings suggest little likelihood of spontaneous remission of ED problems in community women. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/413 Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-24 4 5 Article 413 424 2072-6643 A Community-Based Study of Enduring Eating Features in Young Women 2012-05-24 doi: 10.3390/nu4050413 Phillipa J. Hay Petra Buettner Jonathan Mond Susan J. Paxton Frances Quirk Bryan Rodgers http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/399 Bone and muscle weakness due to vitamin D deficiency is common among Muslim women who reside in sunny, equatorial countries. The purpose of this study was to determine if living in a northern maritime location additionally disadvantages women who wear concealing clothes. A cross-sectional matched pair design was used to compare women who habitually wore concealing clothing with women who dressed according to western norms. Each premenopausal hijab-wearing woman (n = 11) was matched by age, height, weight and skin tone with a western-dressed woman. Subjects were tested by hand grip dynamometry to assess muscular strength and by quantitative ultrasound at the calcaneus to assess bone status. Nutritional intake was obtained by 24 h recall. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (s-25(OH)D) status was determined in seven matched pairs. The hijab group had lower s-25(OH)D than women who wore western clothes (40 ± 28 vs. 81 ± 32 nmol/L, p = 0.01). Grip strength in the right hand was lower in the hijab-wearing women (p = 0.05) but this appeared to be due to less participation in intense exercise. Bone status did not differ between groups (p = 0.9). Dietary intake of vitamin D was lower in the hijab-wearers (316 ± 353 vs. 601 ± 341 IU/day, p = 0.001). This pilot study suggests that women living in a northern maritime location appear to be at risk for vitamin D insufficiency and therefore should consider taking vitamin D supplements. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/399 Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-24 4 5 Article 399 412 2072-6643 Vitamin D and Musculoskeletal Status in Nova Scotian Women Who Wear Concealing Clothing 2012-05-24 doi: 10.3390/nu4050399 Rani C. I. Ojah Jo M. Welch http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/372 The Australasian section of the American Oil Chemists Society (AAOCS) held their biennial meeting in Adelaide, Australia on 8–11 November 2011. Over 70 scientists, researchers and industry representatives gathered for three days of talks and discussions on lipid related topics. A highlight was the hot topic symposium on the new olive oil standard being introduced in Australia. Paul Miller, Australian Olives Association, gave a compelling address on why the standard was needed. He demonstrated that the increase in price and demand for high quality olive oils has led to products falsely or misleadingly labelled. Furthermore, the genetic and seasonal variation in minor components of olive oil has led to misclassifications. An extensive scientific and political process in Australia and overseas led to development of this new standard. Dr. Leandro Ravetti, Mordern Olives, demonstrated the development of two new methods, for analysis of pyropheophytins and diacylglycerols, are good indicators of modification by deodorisation of oils and show excellent correlation with organoleptic assessment with aging/degradation of extra virgin olive oils. Professor Rod Mailer finished this session with studies of actual adulteration cases in Australia and overseas, further highlighting the need for this new standard. [...] http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/372 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-23 4 5 Meeting Report 372 398 2072-6643 Report from the Biennial Scientific Meeting of the Australasian Section of the American Oil Chemists Society (AAOCS) Held in Adelaide, November 2011 2012-05-23 doi: 10.3390/nu4050372 Matthew R. Miller http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/356 The objective of this review is to explore the relationship between alcohol and the metabolism of the essential micronutrient, vitamin A; as well as the impact this interaction has on alcohol-induced disease in adults. Depleted hepatic vitamin A content has been reported in human alcoholics, an observation that has been confirmed in animal models of chronic alcohol consumption. Indeed, alcohol consumption has been associated with declines in hepatic levels of retinol (vitamin A), as well as retinyl ester and retinoic acid; collectively referred to as retinoids. Through the use of animal models, the complex interplay between alcohol metabolism and vitamin A homeostasis has been studied; the reviewed research supports the notion that chronic alcohol consumption precipitates a decline in hepatic retinoid levels through increased breakdown, as well as increased export to extra-hepatic tissues. While the precise biochemical mechanisms governing alcohol’s effect remain to be elucidated, its profound effect on hepatic retinoid status is irrefutable. In addition to a review of the literature related to studies on tissue retinoid levels and the metabolic interactions between alcohol and retinoids, the significance of altered hepatic retinoid metabolism in the context of alcoholic liver disease is also considered. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/356 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-07 4 5 Review 356 371 2072-6643 The Adverse Effects of Alcohol on Vitamin A Metabolism 2012-05-07 doi: 10.3390/nu4050356 Robin D. Clugston William S. Blaner http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/343 Multivariate analysis of 1H NMR data has been used for the characterization of 12 blended olive oils commercially available in the U.S. as Italian products. Chemometric methods such as unsupervised Principal Component Analysis (PCA) allowed good discrimination and gave some affinity indications for the U.S. market olive oils compared to other single cultivars of extra virgin olive oil such as Coratina and Ogliarola from Apulia, one of Italy’s leading olive oil producers, Picual (Spain), Kalamata (Greece) and Sfax (Tunisia). The olive oils commercially available as Italian products in the U.S. market clustered into 3 groups. Among them only the first (7 samples) and the second group (2 samples) showed PCA ranges similar to European references. Two oils of the third group (3 samples) were more similar to Tunisian references. In conclusion, our study revealed that most EVOO (extra virgin olive oils) tested were closer to Greek (in particular) and Spanish olive oils than Apulia EVOO. The PCA loadings disclose the components responsible for the discrimination as unsaturated (oleic, linoleic, linolenic) and saturated fatty acids. All are of great importance because of their nutritional value and differential effects on the oxidative stability of oils. It is evident that this approach has the potential to reveal the origin of EVOO, although the results support the need for a larger database, including EVOO from other Italian regions. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/343 Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-04 4 5 Article 343 355 2072-6643 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study of Olive Oils Commercially Available as Italian Products in the United States of America 2012-05-04 doi: 10.3390/nu4050343 Laura Del Coco Francesco Paolo Schena Francesco Paolo Fanizzi http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/331 Background and aim: Preliminary evaluation of a wild green oat extract (WGOE) (Neuravena® ELFA®955, Frutarom, Switzerland) revealed an acute cognitive benefit of supplementation. This study investigated whether regular daily WGOE supplementation would result in sustained cognitive improvements. Method: A 12-week randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial of WGOE supplementation (1500 mg/day) versus placebo was undertaken in 37 healthy adults aged 67 ± 0.8 years (mean ± SEM). Cognitive assessments included the Stroop colour-word test, letter cancellation, the rule-shift task, a computerised multi-tasking test battery and the trail-making task. All assessments were conducted in Week 12 and repeated in Week 24 whilst subjects were fasted and at least 18 h after taking the last dose of supplement. Result: Chronic WGOE supplementation did not affect any measures of cognition. Conclusion: It appears that the cognitive benefit of acute WGOE supplementation does not persist with chronic treatment in older adults with normal cognition. It remains to be seen whether sustained effects of WGOE supplementation may be more evident in those with mild cognitive impairment. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/5/331 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-05-03 4 5 Article 331 342 2072-6643 Chronic Effects of a Wild Green Oat Extract Supplementation on Cognitive Performance in Older Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial 2012-05-03 doi: 10.3390/nu4050331 Rachel H. X. Wong Peter R. C. Howe Janet Bryan Alison M. Coates Jonathan D. Buckley Narelle M. Berry http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/319 We examined the association of vitamin D deficiency to risk of cesarean delivery using prospective data in a cohort of 1153 low income and minority gravidae. Circulating maternal 25-hydroxyvitamin D and intact parathyroid hormone were measured at entry to care 13.73 ± 5.6 weeks (mean ± SD). Intake of vitamin D and calcium was assessed at three time points during pregnancy. Using recent Institute of Medicine guidelines, 10.8% of the gravidae were at risk of vitamin D deficiency, and 23.8% at risk of insufficiency. Maternal 25-hydroxyvitamin D was related positively to vitamin D and calcium intakes and negatively to circulating concentrations of parathyroid hormone. Risk for cesarean delivery was increased significantly for vitamin D deficient women; there was no increased risk for gravidae at risk of insufficiency. When specific indications were examined, vitamin D deficiency was linked to a 2-fold increased risk of cesarean for prolonged labor. Results were the similar when prior guidelines for vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D < 37.5nmol/L) and insufficiency (37.5–80 nmol/L) were utilized. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/319 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-20 4 4 Article 319 330 2072-6643 Maternal Vitamin D Status and Delivery by Cesarean 2012-04-20 doi: 10.3390/nu4040319 Theresa O. Scholl Xinhua Chen Peter Stein http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/297 Alcohol is a commonly used drug worldwide. Epidemiological studies have identified alcohol consumption as a factor that may either positively or negatively influence many diseases including cardiovascular disease, certain cancers and dementia. Often there seems to be a differential effect of various drinking patterns, with frequent moderate consumption of alcohol being salutary and binge drinking or chronic abuse being deleterious to one’s health. A better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms mediating the many effects of alcohol consumption is beginning to emerge, as well as a clearer picture as to whether these effects are due to the direct actions of alcohol itself, or caused in part by its metabolites, e.g., acetaldehyde, or by incidental components present in the alcoholic beverage (e.g., polyphenols in red wine). This review will discuss evidence to date as to how alcohol (ethanol) might affect atherosclerosis that underlies cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, and the putative mechanisms involved, focusing on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell effects. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/297 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-19 4 4 Review 297 318 2072-6643 Alcohol and Cardiovascular Disease—Modulation of Vascular Cell Function 2012-04-19 doi: 10.3390/nu4040297 Paul A. Cahill Eileen M. Redmond http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/286 A systematic review was conducted to assess what is known about the effect of low glycaemic index (GI) diets on glycaemic control, weight and quality of life in youth with cystic fibrosis (CF). Eligibility criteria were systematic reviews, randomised and non-randomised trials of low GI dietary interventions in CF. Outcomes examined were glycaemic control, quality of life, anthropometry and respiratory function. Reference lists were manually searched and experts in the field were consulted. Four studies met the eligibility criteria; two were excluded because they did not include data on any of the outcomes. The remaining two were studies that examined GI secondary to any other intervention: one used GI as a factor in enteral feeds and the other incorporated low GI dietary education into its treatment methodology. There is insufficient evidence to recommend use of low GI diets in CF. Since there is evidence to support use of low GI diets in type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes, low GI diets should be tested as an intervention for CF. The potential risks and benefits of a low GI diet in CF are discussed. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/286 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-18 4 4 Review 286 296 2072-6643 Low Glycaemic Index Dietary Interventions in Youth with Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review and Discussion of the Clinical Implications 2012-04-18 doi: 10.3390/nu4040286 Ben W. R. Balzer Christie L. Graham Maria E. Craig Hiran Selvadurai Kim C. Donaghue Jennie C. Brand-Miller Kate S. Steinbeck http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/273 Objective: (i) To analyze the eating behaviors and body satisfaction of boys and girls and to examine their mothers’ perceptions of these two domains; and (ii) to evaluate eating problem predictors using child body mass index (BMI), self-esteem, and body satisfaction as well as maternal BMI, eating problems, and satisfaction with their child’s body. The participants included 111 children (54.1% girls aged between 9 and 12 years old) and their mothers. Assessment measures included the Child Eating Attitude Test, the Self-Perception Profile for Children, the Eating Disorders Questionnaire, and the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Child and maternal measures also included BMI and Collins Figure Drawings. Results: (i) No association between child and maternal BMI for either sex was found; (ii) no difference was found between boys and girls with regard to eating behavior; (iii) most children revealed a preference for an ideal body image over their actual body image; (iv) most mothers preferred thinner bodies for their children; (v) greater BMI was related to higher body dissatisfaction; and (vi) child BMI and dissatisfaction with body image predicted eating disturbances in boys, whereas self-esteem, maternal BMI, and eating behavior predicted them in girls. Discussion: Maternal eating problems and BMI were related to female eating problems only. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/273 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-17 4 4 Article 273 285 2072-6643 Disordered Eating among Preadolescent Boys and Girls: The Relationship with Child and Maternal Variables 2012-04-17 doi: 10.3390/nu4040273 Sónia Gonçalves Margarida Silva A. Rui Gomes Paulo P. P. Machado http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/259 Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with the development of several adverse health outcomes, e.g., pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm delivery, low birth weight, birth length, and bone mineral content. The aims of the present study were to estimate the intake and sources of vitamin D in Danish pregnant women and to examine potential determinants of vitamin D intake of the recommended level (10 µg per day). In 68,447 Danish pregnant women the mean ± SD for vitamin D intake was 9.23 ± 5.60 µg per day (diet: 3.56 ± 2.05 µg per day, supplements: 5.67 ± 5.20 µg per day). 67.6% of the women reported use of vitamin D supplements but only 36.9% reported use of vitamin D supplements of at least 10 µg. Supplements were the primary source of vitamin D for the two higher quartiles of total vitamin D intake, with diet being the primary source for the two lower quartiles. Determinants of sufficient total vitamin D intake were: high maternal age, nulliparity, non-smoking, and filling out of the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) during summer or fall. We propose that clinicians encourage vitamin D supplementation among pregnant women, with special focus on vulnerable groups such as the young, smokers and multiparous women, in order to improve maternal and fetal health both during and after pregnancy. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/259 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-16 4 4 Article 259 272 2072-6643 Sources and Determinants of Vitamin D Intake in Danish Pregnant Women 2012-04-16 doi: 10.3390/nu4040259 Camilla B. Jensen Sesilje B. Petersen Charlotta Granström Ekaterina Maslova Christian Mølgaard Sjurdur F. Olsen http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/258 Nutrients recently became the target of an unprecedented internet campaign by an individual who disagrees with the content and conclusions of a paper published in the journal last year, viz. “The Australian Paradox: A Substantial Decline in Sugars Intake over the Same Timeframe that Overweight and Obesity Have Increased” by Alan W. Barclay and Jennie Brand-Miller, Nutrients 2011, 3, 491–504. Regrettably, his criticism has extended to the journal and its peer review processes for permitting publication of the article. [...] http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/258 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-04-10 4 4 Editorial 258 258 2072-6643 The Australian Paradox 2012-04-10 doi: 10.3390/nu4040258 Peter Howe http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/243 Celiac disease (CD), a common heritable chronic inflammatory condition of the small intestine caused by permanent intolerance to gluten/gliadin (prolamin), is characterized by a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Developments in proteomics have provided an important contribution to the understanding of the biochemical and immunological aspects of the disease and the mechanisms involved in toxicity of prolamins. It has been demonstrated that some gliadin peptides resistant to complete proteolytic digestion may directly affect intestinal cell structure and functions by modulating gene expression and oxidative stress. In recent years, the creation of the two research fields Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics, has enabled the elucidation of some interactions between diet, nutrients and genes. Various dietary components including long chain ω-3 fatty acids, plant flavonoids, and carotenoids have been demonstrated to modulate oxidative stress, gene expression and production of inflammatory mediators. Therefore their adoption could preserve intestinal barrier integrity, play a protective role against toxicity of gliadin peptides and have a role in nutritional therapy of celiac disease. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/4/243 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2012-03-27 4 4 Review 243 257 2072-6643 Celiac Disease, Inflammation and Oxidative Damage: A Nutrigenetic Approach 2012-03-27 doi: 10.3390/nu4040243 Gianna Ferretti Tiziana Bacchetti Simona Masciangelo Letizia Saturni http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/231 Females with sepsis have a better prognosis than males, while those of both genders with cirrhosis have a high mortality. Impaired immunity accompanies liver cirrhosis. The potential association between sex and immunologic response of cirrhotic rats in sepsis following immunonutrition was investigated. One hundred and forty-three rats were randomly divided into groups. Liver cirrhosis was produced by weekly feeding of CCl4 for 8 weeks. Among them, 24 male and 19 female underwent castration one month before studying. The rats were fed with either immune enhancing diet or control diet for five days, then sepsis was induced with cecal ligation and two holes puncture. Main outcomes included mortality and serum cytokines (IL-1β, 6, and 10). Comparisons were made both within and between genders. Cirrhotic non-castrated male rats showed a significant decrease in mortality (64.1% vs. 32.1%, p = 0.032) with better survival than control diet following immune enhancing diet. Lower mortality of cirrhotic non-castrated female rats was found after immune enhancing diet (69.6% vs. 52.1%, p = 0.365). Cirrhotic castrated male rats showed a lower mortality (44.4%) following immune enhancing diet, and cirrhotic castrated female rats also showed significantly lower mortality and better survival than control diet after immune enhancing diet (87.5% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.004). Plasma concentrations of IL-1β were higher in non-oophorectomized female rats fed with control diet compared to immune enhancing diet. Non-orchidectomized males and non-oophorectomized females exhibited similar increases in IL-10 after immune enhancing diet. Our results demonstrated that immunonutrition was more beneficial for male than female cirrhotic rats following sepsis. Though orchidectomy was not found to be more advantageous for the normal male rats in sepsis, immunonutrition seemed to be as important as sex hormone for female rats in sepsis. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/231 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-22 4 3 Article 231 242 2072-6643 Gender Different Response to Immunonutrition in Liver Cirrhosis with Sepsis in Rats 2012-03-22 doi: 10.3390/nu4030231 Tsann-Long Hwang Chi-Yi Chen http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/208 Despite its discovery a hundred years ago, vitamin D has emerged as one of the most controversial nutrients and prohormones of the 21st century. Its role in calcium metabolism and bone health is undisputed but its role in immune function and long-term health is debated. There are clear indicators from in vitro and animal in vivo studies that point to vitamin D’s indisputable role in both innate and adaptive immunity; however, the translation of these findings to clinical practice, including the care of the pregnant woman, has not occurred. Until recently, there has been a paucity of data from randomized controlled trials to establish clear cut beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy. An overview of vitamin metabolism, states of deficiency, and the results of recent clinical trials conducted in the U.S. are presented with an emphasis on what is known and what questions remain to be answered. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/208 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-21 4 3 Review 208 230 2072-6643 Vitamin D and Its Role During Pregnancy in Attaining Optimal Health of Mother and Fetus 2012-03-21 doi: 10.3390/nu4030208 Carol L. Wagner Sarah N. Taylor Adekunle Dawodu Donna D. Johnson Bruce W. Hollis http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/197 As indoor workers, trainee doctors may be at risk for inadequate vitamin D. All trainee doctors (residents) in a Boston pediatric training program (residency) were invited to complete a survey, and undergo testing for serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], PTH, and calcium during a 3-week period in March 2010. We examined the association between resident characteristics and serum 25(OH)D using Chi2 and Kruskal-Wallis test and multivariable linear and logistic regression. Of the 119 residents, 102 (86%) participated. Although the mean serum 25(OH)D level was 67 nmol/L (±26), 25 (25%) had a level < 50 nmol/L and 3 (3%) residents had levels < 25 nmol/L. In the multivariable model, factors associated with 25(OH)D levels were: female sex (β 12.7, 95% CI 3.6, 21.7), white race (β 21.7, 95% CI 11.7, 31.7), travel to more equatorial latitudes during the past 3 months (β 6.3, 95% CI 2.0, 10.5) and higher daily intake of vitamin D (β 1.1, 95% CI 0.04, 2.1). Although one in four residents in our study had a serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L, all of them would have been missed using current Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) screening guidelines. The use of traditional risk factors appears insufficient to identify low vitamin D in indoor workers at northern latitudes. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/197 Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-16 4 3 Article 197 207 2072-6643 Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels Among Boston Trainee Doctors in Winter 2012-03-16 doi: 10.3390/nu4030197 Amanda S. Growdon Carlos A. Camargo Jr. Sunday Clark Megan Hannon Jonathan M. Mansbach http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/181 The endocrine physiology of vitamin D in cattle has been rigorously investigated and has yielded information on vitamin D requirements, endocrine function in health and disease, general metabolism, and maintenance of calcium homeostasis in cattle. These results are relevant to human vitamin D endocrinology. The current debate regarding vitamin D requirements is centered on the requirements for proper intracrine and paracrine vitamin D signaling. Studies in adult and young cattle can provide valuable insight for understanding vitamin D requirements as they relate to innate and adaptive immune responses during infectious disease. In cattle, toll-like receptor recognition activates intracrine and paracrine vitamin D signaling mechanism in the immune system that regulates innate and adaptive immune responses in the presence of adequate 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Furthermore, experiments with mastitis in dairy cattle have provided in vivo evidence for the intracrine vitamin D signaling mechanism in macrophages as well as vitamin D mediated suppression of infection. Epidemiological evidence indicates that circulating concentrations above 32 ng/mL of 25-hydroxyvitamin D are necessary for optimal vitamin D signaling in the immune system, but experimental evidence is lacking for that value. Experiments in cattle can provide that evidence as circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations can be experimentally manipulated within ranges that are normal for humans and cattle. Additionally, young and adult cattle can be experimentally infected with bacteria and viruses associated with significant diseases in both cattle and humans. Utilizing the bovine model to further delineate the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D will provide potentially valuable insights into the vitamin D requirements of both humans and cattle, especially as they relate to immune response capacity and infectious disease resistance. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/181 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-15 4 3 Review 181 196 2072-6643 Vitamin D Signaling in the Bovine Immune System: A Model for Understanding Human Vitamin D Requirements 2012-03-15 doi: 10.3390/nu4030181 Corwin D. Nelson Timothy A. Reinhardt John D. Lippolis Randy E. Sacco Brian J. Nonnecke http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/167 Limited data exist regarding the association between binge eating and quality of life (QOL) in obese adolescent girls and boys. We, therefore, studied binge eating and QOL in 158 obese (BMI ≥ 95th percentile) adolescents (14.5 ± 1.4 years, 68.0% female, 59% African-American) prior to weight-loss treatment. Youth completed an interview to assess binge eating and a questionnaire measure of QOL. Controlling for body composition, binge eating youth (n = 35), overall, reported poorer QOL in domains of health, mobility, and self-esteem compared to those without binge eating ( ps < 0.05). Also, girls, overall, reported poorer QOL than boys in activities of daily-living, mobility, self-esteem, and social/interpersonal functioning (ps < 0.05). Girls with binge eating reported the greatest impairments in activities of daily living, mobility, self-esteem, social/interpersonal functioning, and work/school QOL (ps < 0.05). Among treatment-seeking obese adolescents, binge eating appears to be a marker of QOL impairment, especially among girls. Prospective and treatment designs are needed to explore the directional relationship between binge eating and QOL and their impact on weight outcomes. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/167 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-06 4 3 Article 167 180 2072-6643 Binge Eating and Weight-Related Quality of Life in Obese Adolescents 2012-03-06 doi: 10.3390/nu4030167 Lisa M. Ranzenhofer Kelli M. Columbo Marian Tanofsky-Kraff Lauren B. Shomaker Omni Cassidy Brittany E. Matheson Ronette L. Kolotkin Jenna M. Checchi Margaret Keil Jennifer R. McDuffie Jack A. Yanovski http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/154 It has been shown that dietary materials are involved in immune regulation in the intestine. Lipids mediate immune regulation through a complex metabolic network that produces many kinds of lipid mediators. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a lipid mediator that controls cell trafficking and activation. In this review, we focus on the immunological functions of S1P in the regulation of intestinal immune responses such as immunoglobulin A production and unique T cell trafficking, and its role in the development of intestinal immune diseases such as food allergies and intestinal inflammation, and also discuss the relationship between dietary materials and S1P metabolism. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/154 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-03-06 4 3 Review 154 166 2072-6643 Immunological Function of Sphingosine 1-Phosphate in the Intestine 2012-03-06 doi: 10.3390/nu4030154 Jun Kunisawa Hiroshi Kiyono http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/151 It is with great appreciation that we acknowledge the following reviewers who have served our research community by reviewing manuscripts for Nutrients in 2011. [...] http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/3/151 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-23 4 3 Editorial 151 153 2072-6643 Acknowledgment of Reviewers 2012-02-23 doi: 10.3390/nu4030151 Peter Howe http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/132 There is a need for selective and sensitive methods to detect the presence of food allergens at trace levels in highly processed food products. In this work, a combination of non-targeted and targeted proteomics approaches are used to illustrate the difficulties encountered in the detection of the major peanut allergens Ara h 1, Ara h 2 and Ara h 3 from a representative processed food matrix. Shotgun proteomics was employed for selection of the proteotypic peptides for targeted approaches via selective reaction monitoring. Peanut presence through detection of the proteotypic Ara h 3/4 peptides AHVQVVDSNGNR (m/z 432.5, 3+) and SPDIYNPQAGSLK (m/z 695.4, 2+) was confirmed and the developed method was able to detect peanut presence at trace levels (≥10 μg peanut g−1 matrix) in baked cookies. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/132 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-21 4 2 Article 132 150 2072-6643 Current Challenges in Detecting Food Allergens by Shotgun and Targeted Proteomic Approaches: A Case Study on Traces of Peanut Allergens in Baked Cookies 2012-02-21 doi: 10.3390/nu4020132 Romina Pedreschi Jørgen Nørgaard Alain Maquet http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/112 The objective of this study was to identify urinary metabolite profiles that discriminate between high and low intake of dietary protein during a dietary intervention. Seventy-seven overweight, non-diabetic subjects followed an 8-week low-calorie diet (LCD) and were then randomly assigned to a high (HP) or low (LP) protein diet for 6 months. Twenty-four hours urine samples were collected at baseline (prior to the 8-week LCD) and after dietary intervention; at months 1, 3 and 6, respectively. Metabolite profiling was performed by 1H NMR and chemometrics. Using partial least squares regression (PLS), it was possible to develop excellent prediction models for urinary nitrogen (root mean square error of cross validation (RMSECV) = 1.63 mmol/L; r = 0.89) and urinary creatinine (RMSECV = 0.66 mmol/L; r = 0.98). The obtained high correlations firmly establish the validity of the metabolomic approach since urinary nitrogen is a well established biomarker for daily protein consumption. The models showed that trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is correlated to urinary nitrogen. Furthermore, urinary creatine was found to be increased by the HP diet whereas citric acid was increased by the LP diet. Despite large variations in individual dietary intake, differentiated metabolite profiles were observed at the dietary group-level. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/112 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-20 4 2 Article 112 131 2072-6643 Assessment of the Effect of High or Low Protein Diet on the Human Urine Metabolome as Measured by NMR 2012-02-20 doi: 10.3390/nu4020112 Lone G. Rasmussen Hanne Winning Francesco Savorani Henrik Toft Thomas M. Larsen Lars O. Dragsted Arne Astrup Søren B. Engelsen http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/91 Septic morbidity associated with advanced surgical and medical treatments is unacceptably high, and so is the incidence of complications occurring in connection with acute emergencies such as severe trauma and severe acute pancreatitis. Only considering the US, it will annually affect approximately (app) 300 million (mill) of a population of almost one million inhabitants and cause the death of more than 200,000 patients, making sepsis the tenth most common cause of death in the US. Two major factors affect this, the lifestyle-associated increased weakness of the immune defense systems, but more than this the artificial environment associated with modern treatments such as mechanical ventilation, use of tubes, drains, intravascular lines, artificial nutrition and extensive use of synthetic chemical drugs, methods all known to reduce or eliminate the human microbiota and impair immune functions and increase systemic inflammation. Attempts to recondition the gut by the supply of microorganisms have sometimes shown remarkably good results, but too often failed. Many factors contribute to the lack of success: unsuitable choice of probiotic species, too low dose, but most importantly, this bio-ecological treatment has never been given the opportunity to be tried as an alternative treatment. Instead it has most often been applied as complementary to all the other treatments mentioned above, including antibiotic treatment. The supplemented lactic acid bacteria have most often been killed already before they have reached their targeted organs. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/91 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-17 4 2 Review 91 111 2072-6643 Pro- and Synbiotics to Prevent Sepsis in Major Surgery and Severe Emergencies 2012-02-17 doi: 10.3390/nu4020091 Stig Bengmark http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/78 Apoptosis is a programmed cell death that plays a critical role in cell homeostasis. In particular, apoptosis in cardiomyocytes is involved in several cardiovascular diseases including heart failure. Recently autophagy has emerged as an important modulator of programmed cell death pathway. Recent evidence indicates that saturated fatty acids induce cell death through apoptosis and this effect is specific for palmitate. On the other hand, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been implicated in the protection against cardiovascular diseases, cardiac ischemic damage and myocardial dysfunction. In the present study we show that n-3 PUFA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) treatment to culture medium of H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts protects cells against palmitate-induced apoptosis, as well as counteracts palmitate-mediated increase of autophagy. Further investigation is required to establish whether the antiautophagic effect of EPA may be involved in its cytoprotective outcome and to explore the underlying biochemical mechanisms through which palmitate and EPA control the fate of cardiac cells. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/78 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-07 4 2 Article 78 90 2072-6643 Antiapoptotic and Antiautophagic Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid in Cardiac Myoblasts Exposed to Palmitic Acid 2012-02-07 doi: 10.3390/nu4020078 Silvia Cetrullo Benedetta Tantini Flavio Flamigni Claudia Pazzini Annalisa Facchini Claudio Stefanelli Claudio M. Caldarera Carla Pignatti http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/68 In spite of a high prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in pregnant women and neonates, relationships among vitamin D status (25(OH)D), parathyroid hormone (PTH), bone specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), and whole body bone mineral content (WBBMC) in the newborn are poorly characterized. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationships between maternal and cord 25(OH)D, PTH, BALP, and WBBMC in newborns in a multiethnic population in Oakland, California and to evaluate the predictive value of the biochemical indices as indicators of WBBMC. Maternal and cord blood were collected from 80 mother-infant pairs and infant WBBMC was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry 8–21 days post-birth. Cord PTH and BALP were each inversely correlated with infant WBBMC (r = −0.28, p = 0.01 and r = −0.26, p = 0.02) and with cord 25(OH)D (r = −0.24, p = 0.03 and r = −0.34, p = 0.002), while cord 25(OH)D and unadjusted or weight-adjusted WBBMC were not significantly correlated with one other. In multivariate regression modeling, infant WBBMC was most strongly predicted by infant weight ( p < 0.0001), while either PTH or BALP contributed modestly but significantly to the model (p = 0.006 and p = 0.03 respectively). Cord 25(OH)D was not a significant predictor of infant WBBMC. This study provides evidence of associations between feto-maternal 25(OH)D, cord PTH and BALP, and early infant WBBMC, though neither feto-maternal 25(OH)D nor the measured biochemical indices were suitable indicators of WBBMC. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/2/68 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-02-06 4 2 Article 68 77 2072-6643 Evidence of Associations Between Feto-Maternal Vitamin D Status, Cord Parathyroid Hormone and Bone-Specific Alkaline Phosphatase, and Newborn Whole Body Bone Mineral Content 2012-02-06 doi: 10.3390/nu4020068 Daphna K. Dror Janet C. King Ellen B. Fung Marta D. Van Loan Erik R. Gertz Lindsay H. Allen http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/52 The initial observations linking vitamin D to type 2 diabetes in humans came from studies showing that both healthy and diabetic subjects had a seasonal variation of glycemic control. Currently, there is evidence supporting that vitamin D status is important to regulate some pathways related to type 2 diabetes development. Since the activation of inflammatory pathways interferes with normal metabolism and disrupts proper insulin signaling, it is hypothesized that vitamin D could influence glucose homeostasis by modulating inflammatory response. Human studies investigating the impact of vitamin D supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers of subjects with or at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes are scarce and have generated conflicting results. Based on available clinical and epidemiological data, the positive effects of vitamin D seem to be primarily related to its action on insulin secretion and sensitivity and secondary to its action on inflammation. Future studies specifically designed to investigate the role of vitamin D on type 2 diabetes using inflammation as the main outcome are urgently needed in order to provide a more robust link between vitamin D, inflammation and type 2 diabetes. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/52 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-01-20 4 1 Review 52 67 2072-6643 Focus on Vitamin D, Inflammation and Type 2 Diabetes 2012-01-20 doi: 10.3390/nu4010052 Carlos Eduardo Andrade Chagas Maria Carolina Borges Lígia Araújo Martini Marcelo Macedo Rogero http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/42 The seminal discovery that sunlight was important in the prevention of nutritional rickets was made in 1890 by Theobald A. Palm, a medical missionary who contrasted the prevalence of rickets in northern European urban areas with similar areas in Japan and other tropical countries. He surmised that exposure to sunlight prevented rickets. Over the next 40 years his observation led to an understanding of ultraviolet irradiation and its role in vitamin D synthesis. This opened a new era of appreciation for the curative powers of the sun and “the sunshine vitamin”. While Palm’s observations were in some ways obscure, they had a potent effect on the development of photobiology. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/42 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-01-17 4 1 Review 42 51 2072-6643 Theobald Palm and His Remarkable Observation: How the Sunshine Vitamin Came to Be Recognized 2012-01-17 doi: 10.3390/nu4010042 Russell W. Chesney http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/29 Previous studies have examined the relationship between specific nutrient and food intakes with limited markers of either inflammation or oxidant status. The objective of this study was to determine if an increase in combined self-reported fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake in a community setting was associated with improved multiple markers of inflammatory and oxidant status. A community group (N = 1000, age 18–85 years, 61% female) gave two fasted blood samples separated by 12 weeks. Blood inflammatory biomarkers included total leukocytes (WBC), plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and granulocyte colony stimulating factor. Measured oxidant status markers were ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and plasma F2-isoprostanes. The relation of markers across categories of F&V intake was examined. In analyses controlling for other important dietary and lifestyle factors, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly lower across categories of increasing F&V intakes (p < 0.008). FRAP and ORAC were significantly higher (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.047 respectively) while F2-isoprostanes was significantly lower (p < 0.0001) across F&V categories. In a community study, several markers of both inflammation and oxidant status were associated in a putatively salutary direction by higher intake of combined F&V, supporting current guidelines suggesting increased F&V consumption for the prevention of chronic diseases. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/29 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2012-01-04 4 1 Article 29 41 2072-6643 Combined Fruit and Vegetable Intake Is Correlated with Improved Inflammatory and Oxidant Status from a Cross-Sectional Study in a Community Setting 2012-01-04 doi: 10.3390/nu4010029 Martin M. Root Megan C. McGinn David C. Nieman Dru A. Henson Serena A. Heinz R. Andrew Shanely Amy M. Knab Fuxia Jin http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/13 A role for vitamin D in the regulation of immune function was first proposed after the identification of Vitamin D Receptors in lymphocytes. It has since been recognized that the active form of vitamin D, 1α,25(OH)2D3, has direct affects on naïve and activated helper T cells, regulatory T cells, activated B cells and dendritic cells. There is a growing body of literature linking vitamin D (serum 25(OH)D, oral intake and surrogate indicators such as latitude) to various immune-related conditions, including allergy, although the nature of this relationship is still unclear. This review explores the findings of epidemiological, clinical and laboratory research, and the potential role of vitamin D in promoting the inappropriate immune responses which underpin the rise in a broad range of immune diseases. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/13 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-12-28 4 1 Review 13 28 2072-6643 Vitamin D and Allergic Disease: Sunlight at the End of the Tunnel? 2011-12-28 doi: 10.3390/nu4010013 Anderson P. Jones Meri K. Tulic Kristina Rueter Susan L. Prescott http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/1 Over the past 50 years the worldwide growing demand of poultry meat has resulted in pressure on breeders, nutritionists and growers to increase the growth rate of birds, feed efficiency, size of breast muscle and reduction in abdominal fatness. Moreover, the shift toward further processed products has emphasized the necessity for higher standards in poultry meat to improve sensory characteristics and functional properties. It is believed that genetic progress has put more stress on the growing bird and it has resulted in histological and biochemical modifications of the muscle tissue by impairing some meat quality traits. The most current poultry meat quality concerns are associated with deep pectoral muscle disease and white striping which impair product appearance, and increased occurrence of problems related with the meat’s poor ability to hold water during processing and storage (PSE-like condition) as well as poor toughness and cohesiveness related to immaturity of intramuscular connective tissue. This paper is aimed at making a general statement of recent studies focusing on the relationship between muscle growth and meat quality issues in poultry. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/4/1/1 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-12-22 4 1 Review 1 12 2072-6643 Muscle Growth and Poultry Meat Quality Issues 2011-12-22 doi: 10.3390/nu4010001 Massimiliano Petracci Claudio Cavani http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1042 The hypothesis that probiotic administration protects the gut surface and could delay progression of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type1 (HIV-1) infection to the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was proposed in 1995. Over the last five years, new studies have clarified the significance of HIV-1 infection of the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) for subsequent alterations in the microflora and breakdown of the gut mucosal barrier leading to pathogenesis and development of AIDS. Current studies show that loss of gut CD4+ Th17 cells, which differentiate in response to normal microflora, occurs early in HIV-1 disease. Microbial translocation and suppression of the T regulatory (Treg) cell response is associated with chronic immune activation and inflammation. Combinations of probiotic bacteria which upregulate Treg activation have shown promise in suppressing pro inflammatory immune response in models of autoimmunity including inflammatory bowel disease and provide a rationale for use of probiotics in HIV-1/AIDS. Disturbance of the microbiota early in HIV-1 infection leads to greater dominance of potential pathogens, reducing levels of bifidobacteria and lactobacillus species and increasing mucosal inflammation. The interaction of chronic or recurrent infections, and immune activation contributes to nutritional deficiencies that have lasting consequences especially in the HIV-1 infected child. While effective anti-retroviral therapy (ART) has enhanced survival, wasting is still an independent predictor of survival and a major presenting symptom. Congenital exposure to HIV-1 is a risk factor for growth delay in both infected and non-infected infants. Nutritional intervention after 6 months of age appears to be largely ineffective. A meta analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials of infant formulae supplemented with Bifidobacterium lactis showed that weight gain was significantly greater in infants who received B. lactis compared to formula alone. Pilot studies have shown that probiotic bacteria given as a supplement have improved growth and protected against loss of CD4+ T cells. The recognition that normal bacterial flora prime neonatal immune response and that abnormal flora have a profound impact on metabolism has generated insight into potential mechanisms of gut dysfunction in many settings including HIV-1 infection. As discussed here, current and emerging studies support the concept that probiotic bacteria can provide specific benefit in HIV-1 infection. Probiotic bacteria have proven active against bacterial vaginosis in HIV-1 positive women and have enhanced growth in infants with congenital HIV-1 infection. Probiotic bacteria may stabilize CD4+ T cell numbers in HIV-1 infected children and are likely to have protective effects against inflammation and chronic immune activation of the gastrointestinal immune system. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1042 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-12-19 3 12 Review 1042 1070 2072-6643 Effect of Probiotic Bacteria on Microbial Host Defense, Growth, and Immune Function in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type-1 Infection 2011-12-19 doi: 10.3390/nu3121042 Susanna Cunningham-Rundles Siv Ahrné Rosemary Johann-Liang Rachel Abuav Ann-Margaret Dunn-Navarra Claudia Grassey Stig Bengmark Joseph S. Cervia http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1023 Low vitamin D intake and status have been reported worldwide and many studies have suggested that this low status may be involved in the development of several chronic diseases. There are a limited number of natural dietary sources of vitamin D leading to a real need for alternatives to improve dietary intake. Enhancement of foods with vitamin D is a possible mode for ensuring increased consumption and thus improved vitamin D status. The present review examines studies investigating effects of vitamin D enhanced foods in humans and the feasibility of the approach is discussed. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1023 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-12-16 3 12 Review 1023 1041 2072-6643 The Potential Role of Vitamin D Enhanced Foods in Improving Vitamin D Status 2011-12-16 doi: 10.3390/nu3121023 Louise O’Mahony Magdalena Stepien Michael J. Gibney Anne P. Nugent Lorraine Brennan http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1003 While there have been many studies on health outcomes that have included measurements of plasma carotenoids, this data has not been reviewed and assembled into a useful form. In this review sixty-two studies of plasma carotenoids and health outcomes, mostly prospective cohort studies or population-based case-control studies, are analyzed together to establish a carotenoid health index. Five cutoff points are established across the percentiles of carotenoid concentrations in populations, from the tenth to ninetieth percentile. The cutoff points (mean ± standard error of the mean) are 1.11 ± 0.08, 1.47 ± 0.08, 1.89 ± 0.08, 2.52 ± 0.13, and 3.07 ± 0.20 µM. For all cause mortality there seems to be a low threshold effect with protection above every cutoff point but the lowest. But for metabolic syndrome and cancer outcomes there tends to be significant positive health outcomes only above the higher cutoff points, perhaps as a triage effect. Based on this data a carotenoid health index is proposed with risk categories as follows: very high risk: < 1 µM, high risk: 1–1.5 µM, moderate risk: 1.5–2.5 µM, low risk: 2.5–4 µM, and very low risk: > 4 µM. Over 95 percent of the USA population falls into the moderate or high risk category of the carotenoid health index. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/12/1003 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-12-08 3 12 Review 1003 1022 2072-6643 A Carotenoid Health Index Based on Plasma Carotenoids and Health Outcomes 2011-12-08 doi: 10.3390/nu3121003 Michael S. Donaldson http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/987 Fructose-sweetened liquid consumption is associated with fatty liver and oxidative stress. In rodent models of fructose-mediated fatty liver, protein consumption is decreased. Additionally, decreased sulfur amino acid intake is known to cause oxidative stress. Studies were designed to test whether oxidative stress in fructose-sweetened liquid-induced fatty liver is caused by decreased ad libitum solid food intake with associated inadequate sulfur amino acid intake. C57BL6 mice were grouped as: control (ad libitum water), fructose (ad libitum 30% fructose-sweetened liquid), glucose (ad libitum 30% glucose-sweetened water) and pair-fed (ad libitum water and sulfur amino acid intake same as the fructose group). Hepatic and plasma thiol-disulfide antioxidant status were analyzed after five weeks. Fructose- and glucose-fed mice developed fatty liver. The mitochondrial antioxidant protein, thioredoxin-2, displayed decreased abundance in the liver of fructose and glucose-fed mice compared to controls. Glutathione/glutathione disulfide redox potential (EhGSSG) and abundance of the cytoplasmic antioxidant protein, peroxiredoxin-2, were similar among groups. We conclude that both fructose and glucose-sweetened liquid consumption results in fatty liver and upregulated thioredoxin-2 expression, consistent with mitochondrial oxidative stress; however, inadequate sulfur amino acid intake was not the cause of this oxidative stress. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/987 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-11-18 3 11 Article 987 1002 2072-6643 Hepatic Oxidative Stress in Fructose-Induced Fatty Liver Is Not Caused by Sulfur Amino Acid Insufficiency 2011-11-18 doi: 10.3390/nu3110987 Sachin S. Kunde James R. Roede Miriam B. Vos Michael L. Orr Young-Mi Go Youngja Park Thomas R. Ziegler Dean P. Jones http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/962 Vitamin E consists of eight different variants: α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherols (saturated phytyl tail) and α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocotrienols (unsaturated phytyl tail). Cancer prevention studies with vitamin E have primarily utilized the variant α-tocopherol. To no avail, a majority of these studies focused on variant α-tocopherol with inconsistent results. However, γ-tocopherol, and more recently δ-tocopherol, have shown greater ability to reduce inflammation, cell proliferation, and tumor burden. Recent results have shown that γ-enriched mixed tocopherols inhibit the development of mammary hyperplasia and tumorigenesis in animal models. In this review, we discuss the possible differences between the variant forms, molecular targets, and cancer-preventive effects of tocopherols. We recommend that a γ-enriched mixture, γ- and δ-tocopherol, but not α-tocopherol, are promising agents for breast cancer prevention and warrant further investigation. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/962 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-11-14 3 11 Review 962 986 2072-6643 Chemopreventive Activity of Vitamin E in Breast Cancer: A Focus on γ- and δ-Tocopherol 2011-11-14 doi: 10.3390/nu3110962 Amanda K. Smolarek Nanjoo Suh http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/951 We assessed 24-h urinary sodium (Na) and its relationship with urinary calcium (Ca) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the whole body, lumbar spine and total hip in a cross-sectional study. 102 healthy non-obese women completed timed 24-h urine collections which were analyzed for Na and Ca. Dietary intakes were estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Participants were grouped as those with lower vs. higher calcium intake by median split (506 mg/1000 kcal). Dietary Na intake correlated with 24-h urinary loss. Urinary Na correlated positively with urinary Ca for all participants (r = 0.29, p < 0.01) and among those with lower (r = 0.37, p < 0.01) but not higher calcium intakes (r = 0.19, p = 0.19). Urinary Na was inversely associated with hip aBMD for all participants (r = −0.21, p = 0.04) and among women with lower (r = −0.36, p < 0.01) but not higher (r = −0.05, p = 0.71) calcium intakes. Urinary Na also entered a regression equation for hip aBMD in women with lower Ca intakes, contributing 5.9% to explained variance. In conclusion, 24-h urinary Na (a proxy for intake) is associated with higher urinary Ca loss in young women and may affect aBMD, particularly in those with lower calcium intakes. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/951 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-11-10 3 11 Article 951 961 2072-6643 Higher Urinary Sodium, a Proxy for Intake, Is Associated with Increased Calcium Excretion and Lower Hip Bone Density in Healthy Young Women with Lower Calcium Intakes 2011-11-10 doi: 10.3390/nu3110951 Jennifer L. Bedford Susan I. Barr http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/937 There is plausible biological evidence as well as epidemiologic evidence to suggest coffee consumption may lower endometrial cancer risk. We evaluated the associations between self-reported total coffee, caffeinated coffee and decaffeinated coffee, and endometrial cancer risk using the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study Research Materials obtained from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Biological Specimen and Data Repository Coordinating Center. Our primary analyses included 45,696 women and 427 incident endometrial cancer cases, diagnosed over a total of 342,927 person-years of follow-up. We used Cox-proportional hazard models to evaluate coffee consumption and endometrial cancer risk. Overall, we did not find an association between coffee consumption and endometrial cancer risk. Compared to non-daily drinkers (none or < 1 cup/day), the multivariable adjusted hazard ratios for women who drank ≥4 cups/day were 0.86 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63, 1.18) for total coffee, 0.89 (95% CI 0.63, 1.27) for caffeinated coffee, and 0.51 (95% CI 0.25, 1.03) for decaf coffee. In subgroup analyses by body mass index (BMI) there were no associations among normal-weight and overweight women for total coffee and caffeinated coffee. However among obese women, compared to the referent group (none or < 1 cup/day), the hazard ratios for women who drank ≥2 cups/day were: 0.72 (95% CI 0.50, 1.04) for total coffee and 0.66 (95% CI 0.45, 0.97) for caffeinated coffee. Hazard ratios for women who drank ≥2 cups/day for decaffeinated coffee drinkers were 0.67 (0.43–1.06), 0.93 (0.55–1.58) and 0.80 (0.49–1.30) for normal, overweight and obese women, respectively. Our study suggests that caffeinated coffee consumption may be associated with lower endometrial cancer risk among obese postmenopausal women, but the association with decaffeinated coffee remains unclear. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/937 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-11-02 3 11 Article 937 950 2072-6643 Caffeinated Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee and Endometrial Cancer Risk: A Prospective Cohort Study among US Postmenopausal Women 2011-11-02 doi: 10.3390/nu3110937 Ayush Giri Susan R. Sturgeon Nicole Luisi Elizabeth Bertone-Johnson Raji Balasubramanian Katherine W. Reeves http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/929 A growing body of research suggests a linkage between pubertal mammary gland development and environmental factors such as diet as modifiers of long term breast cancer risk. Much of this research is dependent upon mouse models, which may vary between studies. However, effects may be strain dependent and further modified by diet, which has not been previously examined. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine whether mammary gland development differs between FVB and C57Bl/6 strains on diets containing either n-6 or n-3 polyunsaturated fats. Developmental measures related to onset of puberty and mammary gland development differed between strains. Mice fed the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) diet were shown to have lower numbers of terminal end buds, a marker of mammary gland development. This study helps to further clarify differences in development and dietary response between FVB and C57Bl/6 mice in order to more appropriately relate mammary gland research to human populations. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/929 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-25 3 11 Article 929 936 2072-6643 Differential Mammary Gland Development in FVB and C57Bl/6 Mice: Implications for Breast Cancer Research 2011-10-25 doi: 10.3390/nu3110929 Mira B. MacLennan Breanne M. Anderson David W.L. Ma http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/910 The apical cytoplasm of airway epithelium (AE) contains abundant labile zinc (Zn) ions that are involved in the protection of AE from oxidants and inhaled noxious substances. A major question is how dietary Zn traffics to this compartment. In rat airways, in vivo selenite autometallographic (Se-AMG)-electron microscopy revealed labile Zn-selenium nanocrystals in structures resembling secretory vesicles in the apical cytoplasm. This observation was consistent with the starry-sky Zinquin fluorescence staining of labile Zn ions confined to the same region. The vesicular Zn transporter ZnT4 was likewise prominent in both the apical and basal parts of the epithelium both in rodent and human AE, although the apical pools were more obvious. Expression of ZnT4 mRNA was unaffected by changes in the extracellular Zn concentration. However, levels increased 3-fold during growth of cells in air liquid interface cultures and decreased sharply in the presence of retinoic acid. When comparing nasal versus bronchial human AE cells, there were significant positive correlations between levels of ZnT4 from the same subject, suggesting that nasal brushings may allow monitoring of airway Zn transporter expression. Finally, there were marked losses of both basally-located ZnT4 protein and labile Zn in the bronchial epithelium of mice with allergic airway inflammation. This study is the first to describe co-localization of zinc vesicles with the specific zinc transporter ZnT4 in airway epithelium and loss of ZnT4 protein in inflamed airways. Direct evidence that ZnT4 regulates Zn levels in the epithelium still needs to be provided. We speculate that ZnT4 is an important regulator of zinc ion accumulation in secretory apical vesicles and that the loss of labile Zn and ZnT4 in airway inflammation contributes to AE vulnerability in diseases such as asthma. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/11/910 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-25 3 11 Article 910 928 2072-6643 Apical Localization of Zinc Transporter ZnT4 in Human Airway Epithelial Cells and Its Loss in a Murine Model of Allergic Airway Inflammation 2011-10-25 doi: 10.3390/nu3110910 Chiara Murgia Dion Grosser Ai Q. Truong-Tran Eugene Roscioli Agnes Michalczyk Margaret Leigh Ackland Meredin Stoltenberg Gorm Danscher Carol Lang Darryl Knight Giuditta Perozzi Richard E. Ruffin Peter Zalewski http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/897 Background: Micronutrient supplementation has been shown to reduce the progression of HIV but does not have an effect on the intestinal barrier or the intestinal microbiota of HIV patients. Studies have suggested that probiotics could potentially complement micronutrients in preserving the immune-function of HIV patients. Objective: Assess the impact of micronutrient supplemented probiotic yogurt on the immune function of HIV patients. Design: We performed a randomized, double blind, controlled trial with CD4 count as primary outcome among HIV patients naïve to anti-retroviral treatment. Secondary outcomes included hematological parameters, incidence of diarrhea and clinical symptoms. A total of 112 HIV patients were randomized to receive a micronutrient fortified yogurt with (n = 55) or without additional probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 (n = 57) for four weeks. Results: An average decline in CD4 count of −70 cells/μL (95% CI: −154 to −15) was observed in the micronutrient, probiotic group versus a decrease of −63 cells/μL (95% CI: −157 to −30) in the micronutrient control group (p = 0.9). Additional probiotic supplementation was well tolerated and not associated with adverse events. No difference between groups was detected in incidence of diarrhea or clinical symptoms. An improvement of hemoglobin levels was observed for all subjects, based upon a mean difference from baseline of 1.4 g/L (SD = 6) (p = 0.02). Conclusion: The addition of probiotics to a micronutrient fortified yogurt was well tolerated by HIV patients but was not associated with a further increase in CD4 count after one month. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/897 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-21 3 10 Article 897 909 2072-6643 Effect of Micronutrient and Probiotic Fortified Yogurt on Immune-Function of Anti-Retroviral Therapy Naive HIV Patients   2011-10-21 doi: 10.3390/nu3100897 Ruben Hummelen Jaimie Hemsworth John Changalucha Nicodemus L. Butamanya Sharareh Hekmat J. Dik F. Habbema Gregor Reid http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/877 Soy isoflavones have been documented as dietary nutrients broadly classified as “natural agents” which plays important roles in reducing the incidence of hormone-related cancers in Asian countries, and have shown inhibitory effects on cancer development and progression in vitro and in vivo, suggesting the cancer preventive or therapeutic activity of soy isoflavones against cancers. Emerging experimental evidence shows that isoflavones could induce cancer cell death by regulating multiple cellular signaling pathways including Akt, NF-κB, MAPK, Wnt, androgen receptor (AR), p53 and Notch signaling, all of which have been found to be deregulated in cancer cells. Therefore, homeostatic regulation of these important cellular signaling pathways by isoflavones could be useful for the activation of cell death signaling, which could result in the induction of apoptosis of both pre-cancerous and/or cancerous cells without affecting normal cells. In this article, we have attempted to summarize the current state-of-our-knowledge regarding the induction of cancer cell death pathways by isoflavones, which is believed to be mediated through the regulation of multiple cellular signaling pathways. The knowledge gained from this article will provide a comprehensive view on the molecular mechanism(s) by which soy isoflavones may exert their effects on the prevention of tumor progression and/or treatment of human malignancies, which would also aid in stimulating further in-depth mechanistic research and foster the initiation of novel clinical trials. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/877 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-17 3 10 Review 877 896 2072-6643 Induction of Cancer Cell Death by Isoflavone: The Role of Multiple Signaling Pathways 2011-10-17 doi: 10.3390/nu3100877 Yiwei Li Dejuan Kong Bin Bao Aamir Ahmad Fazlul H. Sarkar http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/858 The short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) acetate (C2), propionate (C3) and butyrate (C4) are the main metabolic products of anaerobic bacteria fermentation in the intestine. In addition to their important role as fuel for intestinal epithelial cells, SCFAs modulate different processes in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract such as electrolyte and water absorption. These fatty acids have been recognized as potential mediators involved in the effects of gut microbiota on intestinal immune function. SCFAs act on leukocytes and endothelial cells through at least two mechanisms: activation of GPCRs (GPR41 and GPR43) and inhibiton of histone deacetylase (HDAC). SCFAs regulate several leukocyte functions including production of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10), eicosanoids and chemokines (e.g., MCP-1 and CINC-2). The ability of leukocytes to migrate to the foci of inflammation and to destroy microbial pathogens also seems to be affected by the SCFAs. In this review, the latest research that describes how SCFAs regulate the inflammatory process is presented. The effects of these fatty acids on isolated cells (leukocytes, endothelial and intestinal epithelial cells) and, particularly, on the recruitment and activation of leukocytes are discussed. Therapeutic application of these fatty acids for the treatment of inflammatory pathologies is also highlighted. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/858 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-14 3 10 Review 858 876 2072-6643 Regulation of Inflammation by Short Chain Fatty Acids 2011-10-14 doi: 10.3390/nu3100858 Marco A.R. Vinolo Hosana G. Rodrigues Renato T. Nachbar Rui Curi http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/839 Over recent years, several studies have related olive oil ingestion to a low incidence of several diseases, including breast cancer. Hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol are two of the major phenols present in virgin olive oils. Despite the fact that they have been linked to cancer prevention, there is no evidence that clarifies their effect in human breast tumor and non-tumor cells. In the present work, we present hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol’s effects in human breast cell lines. Our results show that hydroxytyrosol acts as a more efficient free radical scavenger than tyrosol, but both fail to affect cell proliferation rates, cell cycle profile or cell apoptosis in human mammary epithelial cells (MCF10A) or breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 and MCF7). We found that hydroxytyrosol decreases the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in MCF10A cells but not in MCF7 or MDA-MB-231 cells while very high amounts of tyrosol is needed to decrease the ROS level in MCF10A cells. Interestingly, hydroxytyrosol prevents oxidative DNA damage in the three breast cell lines. Therefore, our data suggest that simple phenol hydroxytyrosol could contribute to a lower incidence of breast cancer in populations that consume virgin olive oil due to its antioxidant activity and its protection against oxidative DNA damage in mammary cells. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/10/839 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-10-13 3 10 Article 839 857 2072-6643 Hydroxytyrosol Protects against Oxidative DNA Damage in Human Breast Cells 2011-10-13 doi: 10.3390/nu3100839 Fernando Warleta Cristina Sánchez Quesada María Campos Yosra Allouche Gabriel Beltrán José J. Gaforio http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/818 Abelmoschus esculentus (Malvaceae), Hibiscus acetosella (Malvaceae), Manihot esculenta Crantz (Euphorbiaceae) and Pteridium aquilinum (Dennstaedtiaceae) leaves are currently consumed as vegetables by migrants from sub-Saharan Africa living in Western Europe and by the people in the origin countries, where these plants are also used in the folk medicine. Manihot leaves are also eaten in Latin America and some Asian countries. This work investigated the capacity of aqueous extracts prepared from those vegetables to inhibit the peroxidation of a linoleic acid emulsion. Short chain, volatile C-compounds as markers of advanced lipid peroxidation were measured by gas chromatography by following the ethylene production. The generation of lipid hydroperoxides, was monitored by spectroscopy using N-N′-dimethyl-p-phenylene-diamine (DMPD). The formation of intermediate peroxyl, and other free radicals, at the initiation of the lipid peroxidation was investigated by electron spin resonance, using α-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)-N-tert-butylnitrone as spin trap agent. The ability of the extracts to decrease the cellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in “inflammation like” conditions was studied by fluorescence technique using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescine-diacetate as fluorogenic probe, in a cell model of human monocytes (HL-60 cells) activated with phorbol ester. Overall the extracts displayed efficient concentration-dependent inhibitory effects. Their total polyphenol and flavonoid content was determined by classic colorimetric methods. An HPLC-UV/DAD analysis has clearly identified the presence of some polyphenolic compounds, which explains at least partially the inhibitions observed in our models. The role of these plants in the folk medicine by sub-Saharan peoples as well as in the prevention of oxidative stress and ROS related diseases requires further consideration. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/818 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-09-16 3 9 Article 818 838 2072-6643 Antioxidant and Antiradical Activities of Manihot esculenta Crantz (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves and Other Selected Tropical Green Vegetables Investigated on Lipoperoxidation and Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) Activated Monocytes 2011-09-16 doi: 10.3390/nu3090818 Cesar N. Tsumbu Ginette Deby-Dupont Monique Tits Luc Angenot Thierry Franck Didier Serteyn Ange Mouithys-Mickalad http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/805 Selenium is an essential micronutrient for humans and animals, and is thought to provide protection against some forms of cancer. These protective effects appear to be mediated, at least in part, through selenium-containing proteins (selenoproteins). Recent studies in a mouse colon cancer cell line have shown that the 15 kDa selenoprotein (Sep15) may also play a role in promoting colon cancer. The current study investigated whether the effects of reversing the cancer phenotype observed when Sep15 was removed in mouse colon cancer cells, were recapitulated in HCT116 and HT29 human colorectal carcinoma cells. Targeted down-regulation of Sep15 using RNAi technology in these human colon cancer cell lines resulted in similarly decreased growth under anchorage-dependent and anchorage-independent conditions. However, the magnitude of reduction in cell growth was much less than in the mouse colon cancer cell line investigated previously. Furthermore, changes in cell cycle distribution were observed, indicating a delayed release of Sep15 deficient cells from the G0/G1 phase after synchronization. The potential mechanism by which human colon cancer cells lacking Sep15 revert their cancer phenotype will need to be explored further. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/805 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-09-05 3 9 Article 805 817 2072-6643 Deficiency in the 15 kDa Selenoprotein Inhibits Human Colon Cancer Cell Growth 2011-09-05 doi: 10.3390/nu3090805 Petra A. Tsuji Salvador Naranjo-Suarez Bradley A. Carlson Ryuta Tobe Min-Hyuk Yoo Cindy D. Davis http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/792 Glutamine, one of the most abundant amino acids found in maternal milk, favors protein anabolism. Early-weaned babies are deprived of this source of glutamine, in a period during which endogenous biosynthesis may be insufficient for tissue needs in states of metabolic stress, mainly during infections. The objective of this study was to verify the effects of dietary glutamine supplementation on the body composition and visceral protein status of early-weaned mice inoculated with Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Mice were weaned early on their 14th day of life and seperated into two groups, one of which was fed a glutamine-free diet (n = 16) and the other a glutamine-supplemented diet (40 g/kg diet) (n = 16). At 21 days of age, some mice were intraperitoneally injected with BCG. Euthanasia was performed at the 28th day of age. BCG inoculation significantly reduced body weight (P < 0.001), lean mass (P = 0.002), water (P = 0.006), protein (P = 0.007) and lipid content (P = 0.001) in the carcass. Dietary glutamine supplementation resulted in a significant increase in serum IGF-1 (P = 0.019) and albumin (P = 0.025) concentration, muscle protein concentration (P = 0.035) and lipid content (P = 0.002) in the carcass. In conclusion, dietary glutamine supplementation had a positive influence on visceral protein status but did not affect body composition in early-weaned mice inoculated with BCG. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/792 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-08-31 3 9 Article 792 804 2072-6643 Effects of Dietary Glutamine Supplementation on the Body Composition and Protein Status of Early-Weaned Mice Inoculated with Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus Calmette-Guerin 2011-08-31 doi: 10.3390/nu3090792 Marcelo Macedo Rogero Maria Carolina Borges Inar Alves De Castro Ivanir S. O. Pires Primavera Borelli Julio Tirapegui http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/765 Bioactive peptides have been identified in a range of foods, including plant, milk and muscle, e.g., beef, chicken, pork and fish muscle proteins. Bioactive peptides from food proteins offer major potential for incorporation into functional foods and nutraceuticals. The aim of this paper is to present an outline of the bioactive peptides identified in the muscle protein of meat to date, with a focus on muscle protein from domestic animals and fish. The majority of research on bioactives from meat sources has focused on angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and antioxidant peptides. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/9/765 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-08-31 3 9 Review 765 791 2072-6643 Bioactive Peptides from Muscle Sources: Meat and Fish 2011-08-31 doi: 10.3390/nu3090765 Joseph Thomas Ryan Reynolds Paul Ross Declan Bolton Gerald F. Fitzgerald Catherine Stanton http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/756 Hypertension is the leading risk for premature death in the world. High dietary sodium is an important contributor to increased blood pressure and is strongly associated with other important diseases (e.g., gastric cancer, calcium containing kidney stones, osteoporosis, asthma and obesity). The average dietary sodium intake in Canada is approximately 3400 mg/day. It is estimated that 30% of hypertension, more than 10% of cardiovascular events and 1.4 billion dollars/year in health care expenses are caused by this high level of intake in Canada. Since 2006, Canada has had a focused and evolving effort to reduce dietary sodium based on actions from Non Governmental Organizations (NGO), and Federal and Provincial/Territorial Government actions. NGOs initiated Canadian sodium reduction programs by developing a policy statement outlining the health issue and calling for governmental, NGO and industry action, developing and disseminating an extensive health care professional education program including resources for patient education, developing a public awareness campaign through extensive media releases and publications in the lay press. The Federal Government responded by striking a Intersectoral Sodium Work Group to develop recommendations on how to implement Canada’s dietary reference intake values for dietary sodium and by developing timelines and targets for foods to be reduced in sodium, assessing key research gaps with funding for targeted dietary sodium based research, developing plans for public education and for conducting evaluation of the program to reduce dietary sodium. While food regulation is a Federal Government responsibility Provincial and Territorial governments indicated reducing dietary sodium needed to be a priority. Federal and Provincial Ministers of Health have endorsed a target to reduce the average consumption of sodium to 2300 mg/day by 2016 and the Deputy Ministers of Health have tasked a joint committee to review the recommendations of the Sodium Work Group and report back to them. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/756 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-08-16 3 8 Review 756 764 2072-6643 Canadian Initiatives to Prevent Hypertension by Reducing Dietary Sodium 2011-08-16 doi: 10.3390/nu3080756 Norm R. C. Campbell Kevin J. Willis Mary L’Abbe Robert Strang Eric Young http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/735 Over the past four or five decades, there has been increasing interest in the neurochemical regulation of cognition. This field received considerable attention in the 1980s, with the identification of possible cognition enhancing agents or “smart drugs”. Even though many of the optimistic claims for some agents have proven premature, evidence suggests that several metabolic agents may prove to be effective in improving and preserving cognitive performance and may lead to better cognitive aging through the lifespan. Aging is characterized by a progressive deterioration in physiological functions and metabolic processes. There are a number of agents with the potential to improve metabolic activity. Research is now beginning to identify these various agents and delineate their potential usefulness for improving cognition in health and disease. This review provides a brief overview of the metabolic agents glucose, oxygen, pyruvate, creatine, and l-carnitine and their beneficial effects on cognitive function. These agents are directly responsible for generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate) the main cellular currency of energy. The brain is the most metabolically active organ in the body and as such is particularly vulnerable to disruption of energy resources. Therefore interventions that sustain adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels may have importance for improving neuronal dysfunction and loss. Moreover, recently, it has been observed that environmental conditions and diet can affect transgenerational gene expression via epigenetic mechanisms. Metabolic agents might play a role in regulation of nutritional epigenetic effects. In summary, the reviewed metabolic agents represent a promising strategy for improving cognitive function and possibly slowing or preventing cognitive decline. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/735 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-08-10 3 8 Review 735 755 2072-6643 Metabolic Agents that Enhance ATP can Improve Cognitive Functioning: A Review of the Evidence for Glucose, Oxygen, Pyruvate, Creatine, and l-Carnitine 2011-08-10 doi: 10.3390/nu3080735 Lauren Owen Sandra I. Sunram-Lea http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/734 We have found some errors in our paper published in Nutrients [1]. We found that reference 18 in section 2.2 should be removed, the reference 18 in section 3.1 should be replaced with reference 19 and the reference 33 should be corrected as follows. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/734 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-08-09 3 8 Correction 734 734 2072-6643 Barclay, A.W. and Brand-Miller, J. The Australian Paradox: A Substantial Decline in Sugars Intake over the Same Timeframe that Overweight and Obesity Have Increased. Nutrients 2011, 3, 491-504 2011-08-09 doi: 10.3390/nu3080734 Alan W. Barclay Jennie Brand-Miller http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/725 Green tea and protein separately are able to increase diet-induced thermogenesis. Although their effects on long-term weight-maintenance were present separately, they were not additive. Therefore, the effect of milk-protein (MP) in combination with green tea on diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) was examined in 18 subjects (aged 18–60 years; BMI: 23.0 ± 2.1 kg/m2). They participated in an experiment with a randomized, 6 arms, crossover design, where energy expenditure and respiratory quotient (RQ) were measured. Green tea (GT) vs. placebo (PL) capsules were either given in combination with water or with breakfasts containing milk protein in two different dosages: 15 g (15 MP) (energy% P/C/F: 15/47/38; 1.7 MJ/500 mL), and 3.5 g (3.5 MP) (energy% P/C/F: 41/59/0; 146.4 kJ/100 mL). After measuring resting energy expenditure (REE) for 30 min, diet-induced energy expenditure was measured for another 3.5 h after the intervention. There was an overall significant difference observed between conditions (p < 0.001). Post-hoc, areas under the curve (AUCs) for diet-induced energy expenditure were significantly different (P ≤ 0.001) for GT + water (41.11 [91.72] kJ·3.5 h) vs. PL + water (10.86 [28.13] kJ·3.5 h), GT + 3.5 MP (10.14 [54.59] kJ·3.5 h) and PL + 3.5 MP (12.03 [34.09] kJ·3.5 h), but not between GT + 3.5 MP, PL + 3.5 MP and PL + water, indicating that MP inhibited DIT following GT. DIT after GT + 15 MP (167.69 [141.56] kJ·3.5 h) and PL + 15 MP (168.99 [186.56] kJ·3.5 h) was significantly increased vs. PL + water (P < 0.001), but these were not different from each other indicating that 15 g MP stimulated DIT, but inhibited the GT effect on DIT. No significant differences in RQ were seen between conditions for baseline and post-treatment. In conclusion, consumption of milk-protein inhibits the effect of green tea on DIT. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/8/725 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-07-27 3 8 Article 725 733 2072-6643 Consumption of Milk-Protein Combined with Green Tea Modulates Diet-Induced Thermogenesis 2011-07-27 doi: 10.3390/nu3080725 Rick Hursel Margriet S. Westerterp-Plantenga http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/7/712 HIV-infected patients develop abnormalities of glucose metabolism due to the virus and antiretroviral drugs. Spirulina and soybean are nutritional supplements that are cheap, accessible in our community and affect glucose metabolism. We carried out a randomized study to assess the effect of Spirulina platensis versus soybean as a food supplement on HIV/HAART-associated insulin resistance (IR) in 33 insulin-resistant HIV-infected patients. The study lasted for two months at the National Obesity Centre of Cameroon. Insulin resistance was measured using the short insulin tolerance test. Physical activity and diet did not change over the study duration. On-treatment analysis was used to analyze data. The Mann-Whitney U test, the Students T test and the Chi square test were used as appropriate. Curve gradients were analyzed using ANCOVA. Seventeen subjects were randomized to spirulina and 16 to soybean. Each received 19 g of supplement daily. The follow up rate was 65% vs. 100% for spirulina and soybean groups, respectively, and both groups were comparable at baseline. After eight weeks, insulin sensitivity (IS) increased by 224.7% vs. 60% in the spirulina and soybean groups respectively (p < 0.001). One hundred per cent vs. 69% of subjects on spirulina versus soybean, respectively, improved their IS (p = 0.049) with a 1.45 (1.05–2.02) chance of improving insulin sensitivity on spirulina. This pilot study suggests that insulin sensitivity in HIV patients improves more when spirulina rather than soybean is used as a nutritional supplement. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01141777. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/7/712 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-07-18 3 7 Article 712 724 2072-6643 The Effect of Spirulina platensis versus Soybean on Insulin Resistance in HIV-Infected Patients: A Randomized Pilot Study 2011-07-18 doi: 10.3390/nu3070712 Azabji-Kenfack Marcel Loni G. Ekali Sobngwi Eugene Onana E. Arnold Edie D. Sandrine Denis Von der Weid Emmanuel Gbaguidi Jeanne Ngogang Jean C. Mbanya http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/694 Sodium is an essential micronutrient and, via salt taste, appetitive. High consumption of sodium is, however, related to negative health effects such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and stroke. In industrialized countries, about 75% of sodium in the diet comes from manufactured foods and foods eaten away from home. Reducing sodium in processed foods will be, however, challenging due to sodium’s specific functionality in terms of flavor and associated palatability of foods (i.e., increase of saltiness, reduction of bitterness, enhancement of sweetness and other congruent flavors). The current review discusses the sensory role of sodium in food, determinants of salt taste perception and a variety of strategies, such as sodium replacers (i.e., potassium salts) and gradual reduction of sodium, to decrease sodium in processed foods while maintaining palatability. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/694 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-06-20 3 6 Review 694 711 2072-6643 Reducing Sodium in Foods: The Effect on Flavor 2011-06-20 doi: 10.3390/nu3060694 Djin Gie Liem Fatemeh Miremadi Russell S. J. Keast http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/683 A recent Cochrane review concluded that low glycaemic index (GI) diets are beneficial in glycaemic control for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). There are limited UK data regarding the dietary GI in free-living adults with and without T2DM. We measured the energy and macronutrient intake and the dietary GI in a group (n = 19) of individuals with diet controlled T2DM and a group (n = 19) without diabetes, matched for age, BMI and gender. Subjects completed a three-day weighed dietary record. Patients with T2DM consumed more daily portions of wholegrains (2.3 vs. 1.1, P = 0.003), more dietary fibre (32.1 vs. 20.9 g, P < 0.001) and had a lower diet GI (53.5 vs. 57.7, P = 0.009) than subjects without T2DM. Both groups had elevated fat and salt intake and low fruit and vegetable intake, relative to current UK recommendations. Conclusions: Patients with T2DM may already consume a lower GI diet than the general population but further efforts are needed to reduce dietary GI and achieve other nutrient targets. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/683 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-06-09 3 6 Article 683 693 2072-6643 Food Intake and Dietary Glycaemic Index in Free-Living Adults with and without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus 2011-06-09 doi: 10.3390/nu3060683 Susan C. McGeoch Grietje Holtrop Claire Fyfe Gerald E. Lobley Donald W. M. Pearson Prakash Abraham Ian L. Megson Sandra M. MacRury Alexandra M. Johnstone http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/637 Systemic and local inflammation in relation to the resident microbiota of the human gastro-intestinal (GI) tract and administration of probiotics are the main themes of the present review. The dominating taxa of the human GI tract and their potential for aggravating or suppressing inflammation are described. The review focuses on human trials with probiotics and does not include in vitro studies and animal experimental models. The applications of probiotics considered are systemic immune-modulation, the metabolic syndrome, liver injury, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer and radiation-induced enteritis. When the major genomic differences between different types of probiotics are taken into account, it is to be expected that the human body can respond differently to the different species and strains of probiotics. This fact is often neglected in discussions of the outcome of clinical trials with probiotics. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/6/637 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-06-03 3 6 Review 637 682 2072-6643 Gut Microbiota and Inflammation 2011-06-03 doi: 10.3390/nu3060637 Asa Hakansson Goran Molin http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/613 Mucus provides protective functions in the gastrointestinal tract and plays an important role in the adhesion of microorganisms to host surfaces. Mucin glycoproteins polymerize, forming a framework to which certain microbial populations can adhere, including probiotic Lactobacillus species. Numerous mechanisms for adhesion to mucus have been discovered in lactobacilli, including partially characterized mucus binding proteins. These mechanisms vary in importance with the in vitro models studied, which could significantly affect the perceived probiotic potential of the organisms. Understanding the nature of mucus-microbe interactions could be the key to elucidating the mechanisms of probiotic adhesion within the host. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/613 Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-20 3 5 Review 613 636 2072-6643 Lactobacillus Adhesion to Mucus 2011-05-20 doi: 10.3390/nu3050613 Maxwell L. Van Tassell Michael J. Miller http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/604 Postoperative bacterial infections are common despite prophylactic administration of antibiotics. The wide-spread use of antibiotics in patients has contributed to the emergence of multiresistant bacteria. A restricted use of antibiotics must be followed in most clinical situations. In surgical patients there are several reasons for an altered microbial flora in the gut in combination with an altered barrier function leading to an enhanced inflammatory response to surgery. Several experimental and clinical studies have shown that probiotics (mainly lactobacilli) may reduce the number of potentially pathogenia bacteria (PPM) and restore a deranged barrier function. It is therefore of interest to test if these abilities of probiotics can be utilized in preoperative prophylaxis. These factors may be corrected by perioperative administration of probiotics in addition to antibiotics. Fourteen randomized clinical trials have been presented in which the effect of such regimens has been tested. It seems that in patients undergoing liver transplantation or elective surgery in the upper gastrointestinal tract prophylactic administration of different probiotic strains in combination with different fibers results in a three-fold reduction in postoperative infections. In parallel there seems to be a reduction in postoperative inflammation, although that has not been studied in a systematic way. The use of similar concepts in colorectal surgery has not been successful in reducing postoperative infections. Reasons for this difference are not obvious. It may be that higher doses of probiotics with longer duration are needed to influence microbiota in the lower gastrointestinal tract or that immune function in colorectal patients may not be as important as in transplantation or surgery in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The favorable results for the use of prophylactic probiotics in some settings warrant further controlled studies to elucidate potential mechanisms, impact on gut microbiota and influence on clinical management. The use of probiotics must be better delineated in relation to type of bacteria, dose and length of administration. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/604 Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-12 3 5 Review 604 612 2072-6643 Use of Probiotics as Prophylaxis for Postoperative Infections 2011-05-12 doi: 10.3390/nu3050604 Bengt Jeppsson Peter Mangell Henrik Thorlacius http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/574 Dietary proteins elicit a wide range of nutritional and biological functions. Beyond their nutritional role as the source of amino acids for protein synthesis, they are instrumental in the regulation of food intake, glucose and lipid metabolism, blood pressure, bone metabolism and immune function. The interaction of dietary proteins and their products of digestion with the regulatory functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract plays a dominant role in determining the physiological properties of proteins. The site of interaction is widespread, from the oral cavity to the colon. The characteristics of proteins that influence their interaction with the GI tract in a source-dependent manner include their physico-chemical properties, their amino acid composition and sequence, their bioactive peptides, their digestion kinetics and also the non-protein bioactive components conjugated with them. Within the GI tract, these products affect several regulatory functions by interacting with receptors releasing hormones, affecting stomach emptying and GI transport and absorption, transmitting neural signals to the brain, and modifying the microflora. This review discusses the interaction of dietary proteins during digestion and absorption with the physiological and metabolic functions of the GI tract, and illustrates the importance of this interaction in the regulation of amino acid, glucose, lipid metabolism, and food intake. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/574 Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-11 3 5 Review 574 603 2072-6643 Dietary Proteins as Determinants of Metabolic and Physiologic Functions of the Gastrointestinal Tract 2011-05-11 doi: 10.3390/nu3050574 Alireza Jahan-Mihan Bohdan L. Luhovyy Dalia El Khoury G. Harvey Anderson http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/555 The hypothesis was considered that a low fluid intake disrupts cognition and mood. Most research has been carried out on young fit adults, who typically have exercised, often in heat. The results of these studies are inconsistent, preventing any conclusion. Even if the findings had been consistent, confounding variables such as fatigue and increased temperature make it unwise to extrapolate these findings. Thus in young adults there is little evidence that under normal living conditions dehydration disrupts cognition, although this may simply reflect a lack of relevant evidence. There remains the possibility that particular populations are at high risk of dehydration. It is known that renal function declines in many older individuals and thirst mechanisms become less effective. Although there are a few reports that more dehydrated older adults perform cognitive tasks less well, the body of information is limited and there have been little attempt to improve functioning by increasing hydration status. Although children are another potentially vulnerable group that have also been subject to little study, they are the group that has produced the only consistent findings in this area. Four intervention studies have found improved performance in children aged 7 to 9 years. In these studies children, eating and drinking as normal, have been tested on occasions when they have and not have consumed a drink. After a drink both memory and attention have been found to be improved. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/555 Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-10 3 5 Review 555 573 2072-6643 Dehydration Influences Mood and Cognition: A Plausible Hypothesis? 2011-05-10 doi: 10.3390/nu3050555 David Benton http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/529 Modern humans have evolved with a staple source of preformed docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the diet. An important turning point in human evolution was the discovery of high-quality, easily digested nutrients from coastal seafood and inland freshwater sources. Multi-generational exploitation of seafood by shore-based dwellers coincided with the rapid expansion of grey matter in the cerebral cortex, which characterizes the modern human brain. The DHA molecule has unique structural properties that appear to provide optimal conditions for a wide range of cell membrane functions. This has particular implications for grey matter, which is membrane-rich tissue. An important metabolic role for DHA has recently been identified as the precursor for resolvins and protectins. The rudimentary source of DHA is marine algae; therefore it is found concentrated in fish and marine oils. Unlike the photosynthetic cells in algae and higher plants, mammalian cells lack the specific enzymes required for the de novo synthesis of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the precursor for all omega-3 fatty acid syntheses. Endogenous synthesis of DHA from ALA in humans is much lower and more limited than previously assumed. The excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids in the modern Western diet further displaces DHA from membrane phospholipids. An emerging body of research is exploring a unique role for DHA in neurodevelopment and the prevention of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. DHA is increasingly being added back into the food supply as fish oil or algal oil supplementation. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/529 Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-10 3 5 Review 529 554 2072-6643 Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): An Ancient Nutrient for the Modern Human Brain 2011-05-10 doi: 10.3390/nu3050529 Joanne Bradbury http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/515 One strategy for examining effects of nutrients on cognitive function is to initially investigate foods that contain many different nutrients. If effects are demonstrated with these foods then further studies can address the role of specific nutrients. Breakfast foods (e.g., cereals, dairy products and fruit) provide many important nutrients and consumption of breakfast has been shown to be associated with beneficial effects on cognitive function. Isolating effects of specific constituents of breakfast has proved more difficult and it is still unclear what impact breakfast has on real-life performance. The present study provided initial information on associations between breakfast consumption and cognitive failures and accidents. A second aim was to examine associations between consumption of snacks which are often perceived as being unhealthy (chocolate, crisps and biscuits). A sample of over 800 nurses took part in the study. The results showed that frequency of breakfast consumption (varied breakfasts: 62% cereal) was associated with lower stress, fewer cognitive failures, injuries and accidents at work. In contrast, snacking on crisps, chocolate and biscuits was associated with higher stress, more cognitive failures and more injuries outside of work. Further research requires intervention studies to provide a clearer profile of causality and underlying mechanisms. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/5/515 Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-05-04 3 5 Article 515 528 2072-6643 Breakfast and Snacks: Associations with Cognitive Failures, Minor Injuries, Accidents and Stress 2011-05-04 doi: 10.3390/nu3050515 Katherine Chaplin Andrew P. Smith http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/505 The lipids extracted from rice brans were classified by thin-layer chromatography into eight fractions, and their fatty acid (FA) compositions were investigated among five different Japanese cultivars. The lipids of these rice brans comprised mainly triacylglycerols (TAG; 84.9–86.0 wt%), free FA (4.2–4.6 wt%), and phospholipids (PL; 6.5–6.7 wt%), whilst other components were also detected in minor proportions (0.2–2.1 wt%). The PL components included phosphatidyl choline (43.3–46.8 wt%) phosphatidyl ethanolamine (25.0–27.3 wt%) and phosphatidyl inositol (20.2–23.2 wt%). Comparison of the different cultivars showed, with a few exceptions, no substantial difference (P > 0.05) in FA distribution. FA distribution of TAG among the five cultivars was characterized as: unsaturated FA predominantly concentrated at the sn-2 position and saturated FA primarily occupying the sn-1 or sn-3 position in these lipids. These results suggest that the rice bran lipids may be well incorporated into our daily diet to improve nutritional value of the Japanese diet. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/505 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-04-21 3 4 Article 505 514 2072-6643 Variation in Fatty Acid Distribution of Different Acyl Lipids in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Brans 2011-04-21 doi: 10.3390/nu3040505 Hiromi Yoshida Takaaki Tanigawa Isoko Kuriyama Naoko Yoshida Yuka Tomiyama Yoshiyuki Mizushina http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/491 Ecological research from the USA has demonstrated a positive relationship between sugars consumption and prevalence of obesity; however, the relationship in other nations is not well described. The aim of this study was to analyze the trends in obesity and sugar consumption in Australia over the past 30 years and to compare and contrast obesity trends and sugar consumption patterns in Australia with the UK and USA. Data on consumption of sugar in Australia, the UK and USA were obtained from the Food and Agriculture Organization for the years 1980–2003. The prevalence of obesity has increased 3 fold in Australians since 1980. In Australia, the UK and USA, per capita consumption of refined sucrose decreased by 23%, 10% and 20% respectively from 1980 to 2003. When all sources of nutritive sweeteners, including high fructose corn syrups, were considered, per capita consumption decreased in Australia (−16%) and the UK (−5%), but increased in the USA (+23%). In Australia, there was a reduction in sales of nutritively sweetened beverages by 64 million liters from 2002 to 2006 and a reduction in percentage of children consuming sugar-sweetened beverages between 1995 and 2007. The findings confirm an “Australian Paradox”—a substantial decline in refined sugars intake over the same timeframe that obesity has increased. The implication is that efforts to reduce sugar intake may reduce consumption but may not reduce the prevalence of obesity. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/491 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-04-20 3 4 Article 491 504 2072-6643 The Australian Paradox: A Substantial Decline in Sugars Intake over the Same Timeframe that Overweight and Obesity Have Increased 2011-04-20 doi: 10.3390/nu3040491 Alan W. Barclay Jennie Brand-Miller http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/475 The vitamin folate is recognized as beneficial health-wise in the prevention of neural tube defects, anemia, cardiovascular diseases, poor cognitive performance, and some forms of cancer. However, suboptimal dietary folate intake has been reported in a number of countries. Several national health authorities have therefore introduced mandatory food fortification with synthetic folic acid, which is considered a convenient fortificant, being cost-efficient in production, more stable than natural food folate, and superior in terms of bioavailability and bioefficacy. Other countries have decided against fortification due to the ambiguous role of synthetic folic acid regarding promotion of subclinical cancers and other adverse health effects. This paper reviews recent studies on folate bioavailability after intervention with folate from food. Our conclusions were that limited folate bioavailability data are available for vegetables, fruits, cereal products, and fortified foods, and that it is difficult to evaluate the bioavailability of food folate or whether intervention with food folate improves folate status. We recommend revising the classical approach of using folic acid as a reference dose for estimating the plasma kinetics and relative bioavailability of food folate. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/475 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-04-18 3 4 Review 475 490 2072-6643 Human Folate Bioavailability 2011-04-18 doi: 10.3390/nu3040475 Veronica E. Ohrvik Cornelia M. Witthoft http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/442 Immunoglobulins form an important component of the immunological activity found in milk and colostrum. They are central to the immunological link that occurs when the mother transfers passive immunity to the offspring. The mechanism of transfer varies among mammalian species. Cattle provide a readily available immune rich colostrum and milk in large quantities, making those secretions important potential sources of immune products that may benefit humans. Immune milk is a term used to describe a range of products of the bovine mammary gland that have been tested against several human diseases. The use of colostrum or milk as a source of immunoglobulins, whether intended for the neonate of the species producing the secretion or for a different species, can be viewed in the context of the types of immunoglobulins in the secretion, the mechanisms by which the immunoglobulins are secreted, and the mechanisms by which the neonate or adult consuming the milk then gains immunological benefit. The stability of immunoglobulins as they undergo processing in the milk, or undergo digestion in the intestine, is an additional consideration for evaluating the value of milk immunoglobulins. This review summarizes the fundamental knowledge of immunoglobulins found in colostrum, milk, and immune milk. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/442 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-04-14 3 4 Review 442 474 2072-6643 Perspectives on Immunoglobulins in Colostrum and Milk 2011-04-14 doi: 10.3390/nu3040442 Walter L. Hurley Peter K. Theil http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/429 The objective of this narrative review is to examine the nutrition transition and its consequences when populations in Africa modernize as a result of socio-economic development, urbanization, and acculturation. The focus is on the changes in dietary patterns and nutrient intakes during the nutrition transition, the determinants and consequences of these changes as well as possible new approaches in public health nutrition policies, interventions and research needed to steer the nutrition transition into a more positive direction in Africa. The review indicates that non-communicable, nutrition-related diseases have emerged in sub-Saharan Africa at a faster rate and at a lower economic level than in industrialized countries, before the battle against under-nutrition has been won. There is a putative epigenetic link between under- and over-nutrition, explaining the double burden of nutrition-related diseases in Africa. It is concluded that it is possible to steer the nutrition transition into a more positive direction, provided that some basic principles in planning public health promotion strategies, policies and interventions are followed. It is suggested that sub-Saharan African countries join forces to study the nutrition transition and implemented interventions on epidemiological, clinical and molecular (genetic) level for better prevention of both under- and over-nutrition. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/429 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-04-11 3 4 Review 429 441 2072-6643 The Nutrition Transition in Africa: Can It Be Steered into a More Positive Direction? 2011-04-11 doi: 10.3390/nu3040429 Hester H. Vorster Annamarie Kruger Barrie M. Margetts http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/385 The requirement for vitamin A in reproduction was first recognized in the early 1900’s, and its importance in the eyes of developing embryos was realized shortly after. A greater understanding of the large number of developmental processes that require vitamin A emerged first from nutritional deficiency studies in rat embryos, and later from genetic studies in mice. It is now generally believed that all-trans retinoic acid (RA) is the form of vitamin A that supports both male and female reproduction as well as embryonic development. This conclusion is based on the ability to reverse most reproductive and developmental blocks found in vitamin A deficiency induced either by nutritional or genetic means with RA, and the ability to recapitulate the majority of embryonic defects in retinoic acid receptor compound null mutants. The activity of the catabolic CYP26 enzymes in determining what tissues have access to RA has emerged as a key regulatory mechanism, and helps to explain why exogenous RA can rescue many vitamin A deficiency defects. In severely vitamin A-deficient (VAD) female rats, reproduction fails prior to implantation, whereas in VAD pregnant rats given small amounts of carotene or supported on limiting quantities of RA early in organogenesis, embryos form but show a collection of defects called the vitamin A deficiency syndrome or late vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A is also essential for the maintenance of the male genital tract and spermatogenesis. Recent studies show that vitamin A participates in a signaling mechanism to initiate meiosis in the female gonad during embryogenesis, and in the male gonad postnatally. Both nutritional and genetic approaches are being used to elucidate the vitamin A-dependent pathways upon which these processes depend. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/4/385 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CEST Nutrients 2011-03-29 3 4 Review 385 428 2072-6643 Vitamin A in Reproduction and Development 2011-03-29 doi: 10.3390/nu3040385 Margaret Clagett-Dame Danielle Knutson http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/370 Periconceptional intake of folic acid is known to reduce a woman’s risk of having an infant affected by a neural tube birth defect (NTD). National programs to mandate fortification of food with folic acid have reduced the prevalence of NTDs worldwide. Uncertainty surrounding possible unintended consequences has led to concerns about higher folic acid intake and food fortification programs. This uncertainty emphasizes the need to continually monitor fortification programs for accurate measures of their effect and the ability to address concerns as they arise. This review highlights the history, effect, concerns, and future directions of folic acid food fortification programs. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/370 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-03-15 3 3 Review 370 384 2072-6643 Folic Acid Food Fortification—Its History, Effect, Concerns, and Future Directions 2011-03-15 doi: 10.3390/nu3030370 Krista S. Crider Lynn B. Bailey Robert J. Berry http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/341 The rising prevalence of obesity, not only in adults but also in children and adolescents, is one of the most important public health problems in developed and developing countries. As one possible way to tackle obesity, a great interest has been stimulated in understanding the relationship between different types of dietary carbohydrate and appetite regulation, body weight and body composition. The present article reviews the conclusions from recent reviews and meta-analyses on the effects of different starches and sugars on body weight management and metabolic disturbances, and provides an update of the most recent studies on this topic. From the literature reviewed in this paper, potential beneficial effects of intake of starchy foods, especially those containing slowly-digestible and resistant starches, and potential detrimental effects of high intakes of fructose become apparent. This supports the intake of whole grains, legumes and vegetables, which contain more appropriate sources of carbohydrates associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular and other chronic diseases, rather than foods rich in sugars, especially in the form of sugar-sweetened beverages. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/341 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-03-14 3 3 Review 341 369 2072-6643 Starches, Sugars and Obesity 2011-03-14 doi: 10.3390/nu3030341 Erik E. J. G. Aller Itziar Abete Arne Astrup J. Alfredo Martinez Marleen A. van Baak http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/330 The term glycaemic-index (GI) originally appeared in the literature in the early 1980s. GI categorizes carbohydrate according to glycaemic effect postprandially. Since its inception, GI has obtained and maintained interest of academics and clinicians globally. Upon review of GI literature, it becomes clear that the clinical utility of GI is a source of controversy. Can and should GI be applied clinically? There are academics and clinicians on both sides of the argument. Certainly, this controversy has been a stimulus for the evolution of GI methodology and application research, but may also negatively impact clinicians’ perception of GI if misunderstood. This article reviews two assessments of GI that are often listed as barriers to application; the GI concept is (1) too complex and (2) too difficult for clients to apply. The literature reviewed does not support the majority of purported barriers, but does indicate that there is a call from clinicians for more and improved GI education tools and clinician GI education. The literature indicates that the Registered Dietitian (RD) can play a key role in GI knowledge translation; from research to application. Research is warranted to assess GI education tool and knowledge needs of clinicians and the clients they serve. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/330 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-28 3 3 Review 330 340 2072-6643 Perceived Barriers to Application of Glycaemic Index: Valid Concerns or Lost in Translation? 2011-02-28 doi: 10.3390/nu3030330 Shannan M. Grant Thomas M. S. Wolever http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/317 In this work, the efficacy of fig syrup, a Mediterranean fig derivative, as a nutraceutical supplement, was demonstrated. Fig syrup is a fruit concentrate used as a common ingredient in the preparation of typical foods, and particularly in cakes. In vitro assays were performed to determine the amount of nutraceutical ingredients, such as phenolic compounds (3.92 mg equivalent of gallic acid per g) and flavonoids (0.35 mg equivalent of catechin per g), while HPLC analyses provided specific information about the composition of antioxidants in the syrup. Furthermore, total antioxidant activity, scavenging properties against DPPH and peroxyl radicals, and the anticholinesterase activity, clearly showed the efficacy of the syrup in preventing damage induced by free radicals and, thus, the applicability of this food derivative as a nutraceutical supplement. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/317 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-28 3 3 Article 317 329 2072-6643 Antioxidant Activity of a Mediterranean Food Product: “Fig Syrup” 2011-02-28 doi: 10.3390/nu3030317 Francesco Puoci Francesca Iemma Umile G. Spizzirri Donatella Restuccia Vincenzo Pezzi Rosa Sirianni Lillo Manganaro Manuela Curcio Ortensia I. Parisi Giuseppe Cirillo Nevio Picci http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/283 This article is a summary of the publication “Iron and Health” by the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) to the U.K. Government (2010), which reviews the dietary intake of iron and the impact of different dietary patterns on the nutritional and health status of the U.K. population. It concludes that several uncertainties make it difficult to determine dose-response relationships or to confidently characterize the risks associated with iron deficiency or excess. The publication makes several recommendations concerning iron intakes from food, including meat, and from supplements, as well as recommendations for further research. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/283 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-28 3 3 Review 283 316 2072-6643 Iron, Meat and Health 2011-02-28 doi: 10.3390/nu3030283 Catherine Geissler Mamta Singh http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/274 Life expectancies after the age of 70 and the number of individuals living with age-related chronic conditions that affect daily activities continue to increase. Age-specific nutritional recommendations may help to decrease the incidence or severity of age-related debilitating chronic disorders. However, research in this area has seen limited success in identifying nutrition-related mechanisms that underlie the functional loss and chronic conditions that occur as a function of time. We believe that the limited success in establishing age-specific nutrition recommendations for the older population reflects, at least in part, research designs that fail to consider the evolutionary and biological bases of aging and longevity. Longevity has evolved as a by-product of genes selected for their contribution in helping the organism survive to the age of reproduction. As such, the principle of genetic determinism provides an appropriate underlying theory for research designs evaluating nutritional factors involved with life span. Aging is not a product of evolution and reflects stochastic and/or random events that most likely begin during the early, reproductively-active years. The genetic determinism model by which young (normal, control) are compared to old (abnormal, experimental) groups will not be effective in identifying underlying mechanisms and nutritional factors that impact aging. The purpose of this commentary is to briefly discuss the difference between aging and longevity and why knowing the difference is important to nutrition research and to establishing the most precise nutritional recommendations possible for the older population. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/3/274 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-28 3 3 Review 274 282 2072-6643 Aging and Longevity: Why Knowing the Difference Is Important to Nutrition Research 2011-02-28 doi: 10.3390/nu3030274 Roger B. McDonald Rodney C. Ruhe http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/265 Iodine is an integral part of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3), necessary for normal growth and development. An adequate supply of cerebral T3, generated in the fetal brain from maternal free T4 (fT4), is needed by the fetus for thyroid hormone dependent neurodevelopment, which begins in the second half of the first trimester of pregnancy. Around the beginning of the second trimester the fetal thyroid also begins to produce hormones but the reserves of the fetal gland are low, thus maternal thyroid hormones contribute to total fetal thyroid hormone concentrations until birth. In order for pregnant women to produce enough thyroid hormones to meet both her own and her baby’s requirements, a 50% increase in iodine intake is recommended. A lack of iodine in the diet may result in the mother becoming iodine deficient, and subsequently the fetus. In iodine deficiency, hypothyroxinemia (i.e., low maternal fT4) results in damage to the developing brain, which is further aggravated by hypothyroidism in the fetus. The most serious consequence of iodine deficiency is cretinism, characterised by profound mental retardation. There is unequivocal evidence that severe iodine deficiency in pregnancy impairs brain development in the child. However, only two intervention trials have assessed neurodevelopment in children of moderately iodine deficient mothers finding improved neurodevelopment in children of mothers supplemented earlier rather than later in pregnancy; both studies were not randomised and were uncontrolled. Thus, there is a need for well-designed trials to determine the effect of iodine supplementation in moderate to mildly iodine deficient pregnant women on neurodevelopment in the child. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/265 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-18 3 2 Review 265 273 2072-6643 Iodine Deficiency in Pregnancy: The Effect on Neurodevelopment in the Child 2011-02-18 doi: 10.3390/nu3020265 Sheila A. Skeaff http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/245 A complex set of interactions between the human genes encoding innate protective functions and immune defenses and the environment of the intestinal mucosa with its microbiota is currently considered key to the pathogenesis of the chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Probiotics offer a method to potentially alter the intestinal microbiome exogenously or may provide an option to deliver microbial metabolic products to alter the chronicity of intestinal mucosal inflammation characterizing IBD. At present, there is little evidence for the benefit of currently used probiotic microbes in Crohn’s disease or associated conditions affecting extra-intestinal organs. However, clinical practice guidelines are now including a probiotic as an option for recurrent and relapsing antibiotic sensitive pouchitis and the use of probiotics in mild ulcerative colitis is provocative and suggests potential for benefit in select patients but concerns remain about proof from trials. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/245 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-17 3 2 Review 245 264 2072-6643 Probiotics in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and Associated Conditions 2011-02-17 doi: 10.3390/nu3020245 David R. Mack http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/228 Group A rotaviruses are a major cause of diarrhea in the young of many mammalian species. In rotavirus infected piglets mortality can be as high as 60%. Previous research in this laboratory has identified a porcine intestinal GM3 ganglioside receptor that is required for sialic acid-dependent rotavirus recognition of host cells. In addition, we previously demonstrated exogenously added GM3 can competitively inhibit porcine rotavirus binding and infectivity of host cells in vitro. Sialyllactose, the carbohydrate moiety of GM3, is approximately 3 orders of magnitude less effective than GM3 at inhibiting rotavirus binding to cells. Furthermore, production of therapeutic quantities of GM3 ganglioside for use as an oral carbomimetic in swine is cost prohibitive. In an effort to circumvent these problems, a sialyllactose-containing neoglycolipid was synthesized and evaluated for its ability to inhibit rotavirus binding and infectivity of host cells. Sialyllactose was coupled to dipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine (PE) by reductive amination and the product (SLPE) purified by HPLC. Characterization of the product showed a single primulin (lipid) and resorcinol (sialic acid) positive band by thin layer chromatography and quantification of phosphate and sialic acid yielded a 1:1 molar ratio. Mass spectroscopy confirmed a molecular weight coinciding with SLPE. Concentration-dependent binding of rotavirus to SLPE was demonstrated using a thin-layer overlay assay. Using concentrations comparable to GM3, SLPE was also shown to inhibit rotavirus binding to host cells by 80%. Furthermore, SLPE was shown to decrease rotavirus infection of host cells by over 90%. Finally, preliminary results of in vivo animal challenge studies using newborn piglets in their natural environment, demonstrated SLPE afforded complete protection from rotavirus disease. The efficacy of SLPE in inhibiting rotavirus binding and infection in vitro and in vivo, coupled with its relatively low-cost, large-scale production capabilities make SLPE a promising candidate for further exploration as a possible prophylactic or therapeutic nutriceutical for combating rotavirus disease in animals. Most importantly, the results presented here provide proof of concept that the nutriceutical approach of providing natural or synthetic dietary receptor mimetics for protection against gastrointestinal virus infectious disease in all species is plausible. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/228 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-17 3 2 Article 228 244 2072-6643 Inhibition of Rotavirus Infectivity by a Neoglycolipid Receptor Mimetic 2011-02-17 doi: 10.3390/nu3020228 Daniel W. Bergner Theresa B. Kuhlenschmidt William P. Hanafin Lawrence D. Firkins Mark S. Kuhlenschmidt http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/212 The molecular profiles of perchloric acid solutions extracted from the flesh of Sparus aurata fish specimens, produced according to different aquaculture systems, have been investigated. The 1H-NMR spectra of aqueous extracts are indicative of differences in the metabolite content of fish reared under different conditions that are already distinguishable at their capture, and substantially maintain the same differences in their molecular profiles after sixteen days of storage under ice. The fish metabolic profiles are studied by top-down chemometric analysis. The results of this exploratory investigation show that the fish metabolome accurately reflects the rearing conditions. The level of many metabolites co-vary with the rearing conditions and a few metabolites are quantified including glycogen (stress indicator), histidine, alanine and glycine which all display significant changes dependent on the aquaculture system and on the storage times. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/212 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-11 3 2 Article 212 227 2072-6643 Metabolomics as a Powerful Tool for Molecular Quality Assessment of the Fish Sparus aurata 2011-02-11 doi: 10.3390/nu3020212 Gianfranco Picone Søren Balling Engelsen Francesco Savorani Silvia Testi Anna Badiani Francesco Capozzi http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/200 Sprinters are advised to include additional protein sources in their diet. Basal metabolism and vigorous physical activities generate hydrogen ions that need to be buffered. The present follow-up study estimates the dietary potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) in adolescent sprint athletes. Seven-day food diaries and anthropometrics of 60 adolescent sprint athletes (mean age at start 14.7 ± 1.9 years) were collected every six months over a three year period. Comparisons were made between athletes with a negative (PRAL(−)) versus positive PRAL (PRAL(+)). For the entire sample, mean PRAL values of up to 6 mEq/day were slightly positive despite a relatively high protein intake of around 1.5 g/kg. The NEAP ranging between 42 and 46 mEq/day remained stable during the study period. Athletes with a PRAL(−) (−8 to −10 mEq/day) consumed significantly more fruit and fruit juice than athletes with a PRAL(+) (+9 to 14 mEq/day). Athletes with a PRAL(+) did not consume more meat, fish and poultry than athletes with a PRAL(−). Grains and dairy products were only discriminative between the two groups on one measurement occasion. Lowering the PRAL can be obtained by increasing the consumption of potatoes, fruits, vegetables and vegetable soup. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/200 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-09 3 2 Article 200 211 2072-6643 Dietary Acid-Base Balance in Adolescent Sprint Athletes: A Follow-up Study 2011-02-09 doi: 10.3390/nu3020200 Dirk Aerenhouts Peter Deriemaeker Marcel Hebbelinck Peter Clarys http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/186 Misreporting of energy intake (EI) is a common problem in national surveys. The aim of this study was to identify misreporters using a variety of criteria, examine the impact of misreporting on the association between EI and weight status, and to define the characteristics of misreporters in the 2007 Australian Children’s Survey. Data from the 2007 Australian Children’s Survey which included 4800 children aged 2–16 years were used to examine the extent of misreporting based on EI, physical activity level (PAL), age, gender, height and weight status. Three options for identifying misreporters using the Goldberg cut-offs were explored as was direct comparison of EI to energy expenditure (TEE) in a subset of children. Linear regression was used to determine the impact of misreporting on the association between EI and weight status. The prevalence of under-reporting among all children varied from 5.0% to 6.7%, and over-reporting from 1.6% to 3.0% depending on the option used. Direct comparison of EI to TEE revealed similar results. Regression analysis showed that excluding misreporters provided the best model to examine cross-sectional associations between EI and BMI. Characteristics associated with under-reporting included older age, female, higher BMI, higher PAL, living in an urban location, lower parental education level and feeling unwell on the survey day. Over-reporting was more common among children with a lower BMI and lower PAL. In conclusion, misreporting of EI is present among various subgroups of the 2007 Australian Children’s Survey. The impact of misreporting on the association between EI and body weight should be recognised by users of this survey. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/2/186 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-02-08 3 2 Article 186 199 2072-6643 Misreporting of Energy Intake in the 2007 Australian Children’s Survey: Identification, Characteristics and Impact of Misreporters 2011-02-08 doi: 10.3390/nu3020186 Anna M. Rangan Victoria M. Flood Timothy P. Gill http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/164 The approach used by food regulation agencies to examine the literature and forecast the impact of possible food regulations has many similar features to the approach used in nutritional epidemiological research. We outline the Risk Analysis Framework described by FAO/WHO, in which there is formal progression from identification of the nutrient or food chemical of interest, through to describing its effect on health and then assessing whether there is a risk to the population based on dietary exposure estimates. We then discuss some important considerations for the dietary modeling component of the Framework, including several methodological issues that also exist in research nutritional epidemiology. Finally, we give several case studies that illustrate how the different methodological components are used together to inform decisions about how to manage the regulatory problem. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/164 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-20 3 1 Review 164 185 2072-6643 Risk Assessment to Underpin Food Regulatory Decisions: An Example of Public Health Nutritional Epidemiology 2011-01-20 doi: 10.3390/nu3010164 Janis Baines Judy Cunningham Christel Leemhuis Tracy Hambridge Dorothy Mackerras http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/152 Serum fatty acids are increasingly used in cross-sectional surveys and cohort studies as biomarkers of dietary fat intake; however, it is currently difficult to judge whether an individual has low or high fatty acid status, or whether the distribution of fatty acids of a group of people is low or high due to a lack of appropriate reference values. In the absence of interpretive criteria, the distribution of serum fatty acids from a suitable reference population can be used as an alternative. We describe the distribution of the fatty acid composition of the three most commonly reported lipid classes in serum; cholesterol ester, phospholipid and triacylgycerol. Results for each serum lipid class are presented as means (SD) and percentiles (5, 10, 25, 50, 75, 90, and 95) of serum fatty acids in non-fasting blood samples collected from a population based cross-sectional survey of New Zealand adults (n = 2793). These serum fatty acid reference ranges are applicable and relevant to Australia, United Kingdom, and United States as well as other countries where fat intakes are similar to New Zealand. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/152 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-20 3 1 Article 152 163 2072-6643 Serum Fatty Acid Reference Ranges: Percentiles from a New Zealand National Nutrition Survey 2011-01-20 doi: 10.3390/nu3010152 Kathryn E. Bradbury Clark Murray Skeaff Francesca L. Crowe Timothy J. Green Leanne Hodson http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/135 In the early part of the rainy season in 1988, an outbreak of beriberi occurred in free-living adults in a relatively small area in the North Bank region of The Gambia. In 1995 we selected two compounds in a village called Chilla situated within the affected district to retrospectively examine dietary factors potentially contributing to the outbreak. There had previously been cases of beriberi in one compound (BBC) but not in the other (NBC). We measured energy and thiamin intakes for four days on six occasions during the year. We calculated energy and thiamin intakes of people living in the two compounds and foods were collected for thiamin analysis through the year. Thiamin:Energy ratios only met international recommendations in the immediate post‑harvest season when energy and thiamin intakes were highest and then fell through the year. In the rainy season when food was short and labour was heaviest, energy intakes were lower in the NBC but thiamin:energy ratios were lower in BBC. Records of rainfall in 1988 collected near the village indicated that the amount in August was twice the average. We suggest the heavy rainfall may have increased farm workload and reduced income from outside-village work activity. The lower energy intakes in the NBC may have forced adults to rest thus sparing thiamin demands and delaying onset of beriberi. In contrast, the higher energy intake of adults in the BBC may have enabled them to continue working, thus increasing demands for thiamin and inducing the earlier onset of beriberi. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/135 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-19 3 1 Article 135 151 2072-6643 A Retrospective Investigation of Thiamin and Energy Intakes Following an Outbreak of Beriberi in the Gambia 2011-01-19 doi: 10.3390/nu3010135 David I. Thurnham Angela E. Cathcart Margaret B. E. Livingstone http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/118 Probiotic bacteria, mostly belonging to the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, confer a number of health benefits to the host, including vitamin production. With the aim to produce folate-enriched fermented products and/or develop probiotic supplements that accomplish folate biosynthesis in vivo within the colon, bifidobacteria and lactobacilli have been extensively studied for their capability to produce this vitamin. On the basis of physiological studies and genome analysis, wild-type lactobacilli cannot synthesize folate, generally require it for growth, and provide a negative contribution to folate levels in fermented dairy products. Lactobacillus plantarum constitutes an exception among lactobacilli, since it is capable of folate production in presence of para-aminobenzoic acid (pABA) and deserves to be used in animal trials to validate its ability to produce the vitamin in vivo. On the other hand, several folate-producing strains have been selected within the genus Bifidobacterium, with a great variability in the extent of vitamin released in the medium. Most of them belong to the species B. adolescentis and B. pseudocatenulatum, but few folate producing strains are found in the other species as well. Rats fed a probiotic formulation of folate-producing bifidobacteria exhibited increased plasma folate level, confirming that the vitamin is produced in vivo and absorbed. In a human trial, the same supplement raised folate concentration in feces. The use of folate-producing probiotic strains can be regarded as a new perspective in the specific use of probiotics. They could more efficiently confer protection against inflammation and cancer, both exerting the beneficial effects of probiotics and preventing the folate deficiency that is associated with premalignant changes in the colonic epithelia. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/118 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-18 3 1 Review 118 134 2072-6643 Folate Production by Probiotic Bacteria 2011-01-18 doi: 10.3390/nu3010118 Maddalena Rossi Alberto Amaretti Stefano Raimondi http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/104 Paracellular permeability is determined by the complex structures of junctions that are located between the epithelial cells. Already in 1996, it was shown that the human probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum 299v and the rat-originating strain Lactobacillus reuteri R2LC could reduce this permeability in a methotrexate-induced colitis model in the rat. Subsequently, many animal models and cell culture systems have shown indications that lactobacilli are able to counteract increased paracellular permeability evoked by cytokines, chemicals, infections, or stress. There have been few human studies focusing on the effect of lactobacilli on intestinal paracellular permeability but recently it has been shown that they could influence the tight junctions. More precisely, short-term administration of L. plantarum WCSF1 to healthy volunteers increased the relocation of occludin and ZO-1 into the tight junction area between duodenal epithelial cells. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/104 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-12 3 1 Review 104 117 2072-6643 Effect of Lactobacilli on Paracellular Permeability in the Gut 2011-01-12 doi: 10.3390/nu3010104 Siv Ahrne Marie-Louise Johansson Hagslatt http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/63 Retinoids are required for maintaining many essential physiological processes in the body, including normal growth and development, normal vision, a healthy immune system, normal reproduction, and healthy skin and barrier functions. In excess of 500 genes are thought to be regulated by retinoic acid. 11-cis-retinal serves as the visual chromophore in vision. The body must acquire retinoid from the diet in order to maintain these essential physiological processes. Retinoid metabolism is complex and involves many different retinoid forms, including retinyl esters, retinol, retinal, retinoic acid and oxidized and conjugated metabolites of both retinol and retinoic acid. In addition, retinoid metabolism involves many carrier proteins and enzymes that are specific to retinoid metabolism, as well as other proteins which may be involved in mediating also triglyceride and/or cholesterol metabolism. This review will focus on recent advances for understanding retinoid metabolism that have taken place in the last ten to fifteen years. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/63 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-12 3 1 Review 63 103 2072-6643 Vitamin A Metabolism: An Update 2011-01-12 doi: 10.3390/nu3010063 Diana N. D’Ambrosio Robin D. Clugston William S. Blaner http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/49 Primary prevention of most folate-responsive neural tube defects (NTDs) may not require 400 μg folic acid/day but may be achieved by attaining a high maternal folate status. Using RBC folate ≥ 906 nmol/L as a marker for NTD risk reduction, the study aimed to determine the change in blood folate concentrations in reproductive age women in response to long-term folic acid supplementation at 400 µg/day and 140 µg/day (dose designed to mimic the average daily folic acid intake received from New Zealand’s proposed mandatory bread fortification program). Participants were randomly assigned to a daily folic acid supplement of 140 µg (n = 49), 400 µg (n = 48) or placebo (n = 47) for 40 weeks. RBC folate concentrations were measured at baseline, and after 6, 12, 29 and 40 weeks. At 40 weeks, the overall prevalence of having a RBC folate < 906 nmol/L decreased to 18% and 35% in the 400 µg and 140 µg groups, respectively, while remaining relatively unchanged at 58% in the placebo group. After 40 weeks, there was no evidence of a difference in RBC folate between the two treatment groups (P = 0.340), nor was there evidence of a difference in the odds of a RBC folate < 906 nmol/L (P = 0.078). In conclusion, the average daily intake of folic acid received from the proposed fortification program would increase RBC folate concentrations in reproductive age women to levels associated with a low risk of NTDs. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/49 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-10 3 1 Article 49 62 2072-6643 Folate Status of Reproductive Age Women and Neural Tube Defect Risk: The Effect of Long-Term Folic Acid Supplementation at Doses of 140 µg and 400 µg per Day 2011-01-10 doi: 10.3390/nu3010049 Nicola A. Hursthouse Andrew R. Gray Jody C. Miller Meredith C. Rose Lisa A. Houghton http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/40 Optimal dietary quality, indicated by higher diet quality index scores, reflects greater adherence to National dietary recommendations and is also associated with lower morbidity and mortality from chronic disease. Whether this is reflected in lower health care cost over time has rarely been examined. The aim of this study was to examine whether higher diet quality, as measured by the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS), was associated with lower health care costs within the mid-aged cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health. We found that there was a statistically significant association between five year cumulative costs and ARFS, but in the opposite direction to that predicted, with those in the highest quintiles of ARFS having higher health care costs. However the number of Medicare claims over the six year period (2002–2007) was lower for those in the highest compared with the lowest quintile, p = 0.002. There is a need to monitor both costs and claims over time to examine health care usage in the longer term in order to determine whether savings are eventually obtained for those with the dietary patterns that adhere more closely to National recommendations. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/40 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-07 3 1 Article 40 48 2072-6643 Higher Diet Quality Does Not Predict Lower Medicare Costs but Does Predict Number of Claims in Mid-Aged Australian Women 2011-01-07 doi: 10.3390/nu3010040 Clare E. Collins Amanda Patterson David Fitzgerald http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/27 In recent years, the importance of vitamin A in adipose tissue biology, obesity and type II diabetes has become apparent. This review focuses on recent developments within the area of vitamin A and adipose tissue biology. Adipose tissue has an active vitamin A metabolism as it not only stores vitamin A but retinol is also converted to its active metabolite retinoic acid. Several mouse models point to a relationship between vitamin A metabolism and the development of adiposity. Similarly, in vitro studies provide new molecular mechanisms for the function of different forms of vitamin A and retinol- or retinoic acid-binding proteins in adipose tissue. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/27 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2011-01-06 3 1 Review 27 39 2072-6643 Vitamin A Metabolism and Adipose Tissue Biology 2011-01-06 doi: 10.3390/nu3010027 Simone K. Frey Silke Vogel http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/1 The use of complementary and alternative medicines including dietary supplements, herbals and special diets to prevent or treat disease continues to be popular. The following paper provides a description of an alternative dietary approach to the self-management and treatment of cancer, the Bill Henderson Protocol (BHP). This diet encourages daily intake of raw foods, a combination of cottage cheese and flaxseed oil and a number of supplements. Some foods and food groups are restricted (e.g., gluten, meat, dairy). Early background theory that contributed to the protocol’s development is presented as is a summary of relevant evidence concerning the anti-cancer fighting properties of the individual components. Supplement intake is considered in relation to daily recommended intakes. Challenges and risks to protocol adherence are discussed. As with many complementary and alternative interventions, clear evidence of this dietary protocol’s safety and efficacy is lacking. Consumers of this protocol may require guidance on the ability of this protocol to meet their individual nutritional needs. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/3/1/1 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-30 3 1 Article 1 26 2072-6643 Components of an Anticancer Diet: Dietary Recommendations, Restrictions and Supplements of the Bill Henderson Protocol 2010-12-30 doi: 10.3390/nu3010001 Cynthia Mannion Stacey Page Laurie Heilman Bell Marja Verhoef http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1297 As the population of the United States continues to age, it has become increasingly more important to recognize the food intake and eating habits of older adults. The objective of this study was to describe the food group intake, factors predicting food group intake, and the food choices of community-dwelling Kansans, 80 years of age and older who participate in congregate meal programs. Participants completed a short questionnaire querying demographic information, current health status, and dietary supplement use. Participants (n = 113) were then followed up via telephone to complete two 24-hour diet recalls. Data were analyzed to determine adequacy of food group intake and mean intake. Regression analyses were used to determine factors predicting intake and frequency analysis established food typically consumed. Female participants were significantly more likely to consume more fruit servings than males. Intake was low for all five of the food groups, especially dairy. Chronic health conditions and dietary supplement use were consistently predictive factors of the amount of each food group consumed. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1297 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-20 2 12 Article 1297 1307 2072-6643 Food Intake of Kansans Over 80 Years of Age Attending Congregate Meal Sites 2010-12-20 doi: 10.3390/nu2121297 Allisha M. Weeden Valentina M. Remig http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1290 The purpose of this study was to analyze polyphenol rich beverages (vitamin enhanced waters (VEWs), fruit juices and berry juices) to determine free polyphenol concentrations and free polyphenols per Calorie based on a serving size. The Folin‑Ciocalteu reagent was used in a colorimetric assay based on a catechin standard. Fruit and berry juices contained, on average, more than eight-times the concentration of free polyphenols when compared to VEWs. When Calories per serving were taken into consideration, fruit and berry juices contained more than twice the free polyphenols per Calorie http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1290 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-15 2 12 Article 1290 1296 2072-6643 Vitamin Enhanced Waters and Polyphenol Rich Beverages Analyzed for Antioxidant Capacity and Antioxidants/Calorie 2010-12-15 doi: 10.3390/nu2121290 Patrick E. Donnelly Thomas M. Churilla Michael G. Coco Joe A. Vinson http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1266 Dietary fiber and whole grains contain a unique blend of bioactive components including resistant starches, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants. As a result, research regarding their potential health benefits has received considerable attention in the last several decades. Epidemiological and clinical studies demonstrate that intake of dietary fiber and whole grain is inversely related to obesity, type two diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Defining dietary fiber is a divergent process and is dependent on both nutrition and analytical concepts. The most common and accepted definition is based on nutritional physiology. Generally speaking, dietary fiber is the edible parts of plants, or similar carbohydrates, that are resistant to digestion and absorption in the small intestine. Dietary fiber can be separated into many different fractions. Recent research has begun to isolate these components and determine if increasing their levels in a diet is beneficial to human health. These fractions include arabinoxylan, inulin, pectin, bran, cellulose, β-glucan and resistant starch. The study of these components may give us a better understanding of how and why dietary fiber may decrease the risk for certain diseases. The mechanisms behind the reported effects of dietary fiber on metabolic health are not well established. It is speculated to be a result of changes in intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, rate of passage, production of short chain fatty acids and production of gut hormones. Given the inconsistencies reported between studies this review will examine the most up to date data concerning dietary fiber and its effects on metabolic health. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1266 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-15 2 12 Review 1266 1289 2072-6643 Effects of Dietary Fiber and Its Components on Metabolic Health 2010-12-15 doi: 10.3390/nu2121266 James M. Lattimer Mark D. Haub http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1247 Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a heterogeneous, complex group of compounds that are formed when reducing sugar reacts in a non-enzymatic way with amino acids in proteins and other macromolecules. This occurs both exogenously (in food) and endogenously (in humans) with greater concentrations found in older adults. While higher AGEs occur in both healthy older adults and those with chronic diseases, research is progressing to both quantify AGEs in food and in people, and to identify mechanisms that would explain why some human tissues are damaged, and others are not. In the last twenty years, there has been increased evidence that AGEs could be implicated in the development of chronic degenerative diseases of aging, such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and with complications of diabetes mellitus. Results of several studies in animal models and humans show that the restriction of dietary AGEs has positive effects on wound healing, insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, the effect of restriction in AGEs intake has been reported to increase the lifespan in animal models. This paper will summarize the work that has been published for both food AGEs and in vivo AGEs and their relation with aging, as well as provide suggestions for future research. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1247 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-13 2 12 Review 1247 1265 2072-6643 Dietary Advanced Glycation End Products and Aging 2010-12-13 doi: 10.3390/nu2121247 Claudia Luevano-Contreras Karen Chapman-Novakofski http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1231 Polyphenols are the biggest group of phytochemicals, and many of them have been found in plant-based foods. Polyphenol-rich diets have been linked to many health benefits. This paper is intended to review the chemistry and biochemistry of polyphenols as related to classification, extraction, separation and analytical methods, their occurrence and biosynthesis in plants, and the biological activities and implications in human health. The discussions are focused on important and most recent advances in the above aspects, and challenges are identified for future research. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1231 Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-10 2 12 Review 1231 1246 2072-6643 Chemistry and Biochemistry of Dietary Polyphenols 2010-12-10 doi: 10.3390/nu2121231 Rong Tsao http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1212 Current recommendations for counteracting obesity advocate the consumption of a healthy diet and participation in regular physical activity, but many individuals have difficulty complying with these recommendations. Studies in rodents and humans have indicated that long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) potentially elicit a number of effects which might be useful for reducing obesity, including suppression of appetite, improvements in circulation which might facilitate nutrient delivery to skeletal muscle and changes in gene expression which shift metabolism toward increased accretion of lean tissue, enhanced fat oxidation and energy expenditure and reduced fat deposition. While LC n-3 PUFA supplementation has been shown to reduce obesity in rodents, evidence in humans is limited. Epidemiological associations between LC n-3 PUFA intakes and obesity are inconclusive but small cross-sectional studies have demonstrated inverse relationships between markers of LC n-3 PUFA status and markers of obesity. Human intervention trials indicate potential benefits of LC n-3 PUFA supplementation, especially when combined with energy-restricted diets or exercise, but more well-controlled and long-term trials are needed to confirm these effects and identify mechanisms of action. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1212 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-12-09 2 12 Review 1212 1230 2072-6643 Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids May Be Beneficial for Reducing Obesity—A Review 2010-12-09 doi: 10.3390/nu2121212 Jonathan D. Buckley Peter R. C. Howe http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1188 Despite growing numbers, the nutrition practices and attitudes of skipped‑generation(s) kinship caregivers regarding feeding the dependent children in their care have not been examined. In this qualitative study, transcriptions of semi-structured interviews with 19 female and four male skipped-generation(s) Kansas caregivers (ages 47 to 80, 92% non-Hispanic whites, 83% female, 78% grandparents and 22% great-aunt or great‑grandparent caregivers; caring for a range of one to four children, ages three to 18, for an average of nine years) were content analyzed for how their nutrition-related practices and attitudes had changed since parenting the first time. Sub-themes regarding practices included: being more nutrition and food safety conscious now, and shifting their child feeding style. The children seemed to be adversely affected by an on-the-go lifestyle and the use of more electronics. Caregivers described their sources for child feeding advice as being based mostly on information from their mothers, physicians, and their past parenting experiences. Sub-themes for attitudes included opinions that nutrition and safe food handling are important and that nutritious food is expensive. They preferred printed or video nutrition education materials and wanted to receive information through organizations they trusted. This population could benefit from education on: infant, child, adolescent, and sports nutrition; feeding “picky eaters”; healthful recipes, “fast foods” and packaged foods; quick, inexpensive meals and snacks low in fat, sugar, and salt; limiting sedentary time; family meals; using food thermometers; and intergenerational gardening and cooking. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/12/1188 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-11-30 2 12 Article 1188 1211 2072-6643 Nutrition-Related Practices and Attitudes of Kansas Skipped-Generation(s) Caregivers and Their Grandchildren 2010-11-30 doi: 10.3390/nu2121188 Mary Meck Higgins Bethany J. Murray http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1156 Soy isoflavones are phytoestrogens with potential hormonal activity due to their similar chemical structure to 17-β-estradiol. The increasing availability of soy isoflavones throughout the food supply and through use of supplements has prompted extensive research on biological benefits to humans in chronic disease prevention and health maintenance. While much of this research has focused on adult populations, infants fed soy protein based infant formulas are exposed to substantial levels of soy isoflavones, even when compared to adult populations that consume a higher quantity of soy-based foods. Infant exposure, through soy formula, primarily occurs from birth to one year of life, a stage of development that is particularly sensitive to dietary and environmental compounds. This has led investigators to study the potential hormonal effects of soy isoflavones on later reproductive health outcomes. Such studies have included minimal human data with the large majority of studies using animal models. This review discusses key aspects of the current human and animal studies and identifies critical areas to be investigated as there is no clear consensus in this research field. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1156 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-11-23 2 11 Review 1156 1187 2072-6643 Early Exposure to Soy Isoflavones and Effects on Reproductive Health: A Review of Human and Animal Studies 2010-11-23 doi: 10.3390/nu2111156 Elsa C. Dinsdale Wendy E. Ward http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1141 The effects of a probiotic acidified milk product on the blood serum metabolite profile of patients suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) compared to a non-probiotic acidified milk product was investigated using 1H NMR metabonomics. For eight weeks, IBS patients consumed 0.4 L per day of a probiotic fermented milk product or non-probiotic acidified milk. Both diets resulted in elevated levels of blood serum l-lactate and 3-hydroxybutyrate. Our results showed identical effects of acidified milk consumption independent of probiotic addition. A similar result was previously obtained in a questionnaire-based evaluation of symptom relief. A specific probiotic effect is thus absent both in the patient subjective symptom evaluations and at the blood serum metabolite level. However, there was no correspondence between symptom relief and metabolite response on the patient level. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1141 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-11-23 2 11 Article 1141 1155 2072-6643 The Serum Metabolite Response to Diet Intervention with Probiotic Acidified Milk in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients Is Indistinguishable from that of Non-Probiotic Acidified Milk by 1H NMR-Based Metabonomic Analysis 2010-11-23 doi: 10.3390/nu2111141 Simon M. M. Pedersen Niels Chr. Nielsen Henrik J. Andersen Johan Olsson Magnus Simrén Lena Öhman Ulla Svensson Anders Malmendal Hanne C. Bertram http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1132 Healthy food baskets have been used around the world for a variety of purposes, including: examining the difference in cost between healthy and unhealthy food; mapping the availability of healthy foods in different locations; calculating the minimum cost of an adequate diet for social policy planning; developing educational material on low cost eating and examining trends on food costs over time. In Australia, the Illawarra Healthy Food Basket was developed in 2000 to monitor trends in the affordability of healthy food compared to average weekly wages and social welfare benefits for the unemployed. It consists of 57 items selected to meet the nutritional requirements of a reference family of five. Bi-annual costing from 2000–2009 has shown that the basket costs have increased by 38.4% in the 10-year period, but that affordability has remained relatively constant at around 30% of average household incomes. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1132 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-11-19 2 11 Article 1132 1140 2072-6643 Monitoring the Affordability of Healthy Eating: A Case Study of 10 Years of the Illawarra Healthy Food Basket 2010-11-19 doi: 10.3390/nu2111132 Peter Williams http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1106 Polyphenols are found ubiquitously in plants and their regular consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of a number of chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and neurodegenerative disorders. Rather than exerting direct antioxidant effects, the mechanisms by which polyphenols express these beneficial properties appear to involve their interaction with cellular signaling pathways and related machinery that mediate cell function under both normal and pathological conditions. We illustrate that their interactions with two such pathways, the MAP kinase (ERK, JNK, p38) and PI3 kinase/Akt signaling cascades, allow them to impact upon normal and abnormal cell function, thus influencing the cellular processes involved in the initiation and progression of cancer, CVD and neurodegeneration. For example, their ability to activate ERK in neurons leads to a promotion of neuronal survival and cognitive enhancements, both of which influence the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, whilst ERK activation by polyphenols in vascular endothelial cells influences nitric oxide production, blood pressure and ultimately CVD risk. The main focus of this review is to provide an overview of the role that polyphenols play in the prevention of cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. We present epidemiological data, human intervention study findings, as well as animal and in vitro studies in support of these actions and in each case we consider how their actions at the cellular level may underpin their physiological effects. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/2/11/1106 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CET Nutrients 2010-11-08 2 11 Review 1106 1131 2072-6643 Polyphenols and Human Health: Prevention of Disease and Mechanisms of Action 2010-11-08 doi: 10.3390/nu2111106 David Vauzour Ana Rodriguez-Mateos Giulia Corona Maria Jose Oruna-Concha Jeremy P. E. Spencer