Nutrients

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9 pages, 1295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acute Caffeinated Coffee Consumption Does not Improve Time Trial Performance in an 800-m Run: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover, Placebo-Controlled Study

by Alexandre C. Marques, Alison A. Jesus, Bruna M. Giglio, Ana C. Marini, Patrícia C. B. Lobo, João F. Mota and Gustavo D. Pimentel

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060657 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8226

Abstract

Introduction: Studies evaluating caffeinated coffee (CAF) can reveal ergogenic effects; however, studies on the effects of caffeinated coffee on running are scarce and controversial. Aim: To investigate the effects of CAF consumption compared to decaffeinated coffee (DEC) consumption on time trial performances in [...] Read more.

Introduction: Studies evaluating caffeinated coffee (CAF) can reveal ergogenic effects; however, studies on the effects of caffeinated coffee on running are scarce and controversial. Aim: To investigate the effects of CAF consumption compared to decaffeinated coffee (DEC) consumption on time trial performances in an 800-m run in overnight-fasting runners. Methods: A randomly counterbalanced, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 12 healthy adult males with experience in amateur endurance running. Participants conducted two trials on two different occasions, one day with either CAF or DEC, with a one-week washout. After arriving at the data collection site, participants consumed the soluble CAF (5.5 mg/kg of caffeine) or DEC and after 60 min the run was started. Before and after the 800-m race, blood pressure and lactate and glucose concentrations were measured. At the end of the run, the ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) scale was applied. Results: The runners were light consumers of habitual caffeine, with an average ingestion of 91.3 mg (range 6–420 mg/day). Time trial performances did not change between trials (DEF: 2.38 + 0.10 vs. CAF: 2.39 + 0.09 min, p = 0.336), nor did the RPE (DEC: 16.5 + 2.68 vs. CAF: 17.0 + 2.66, p = 0.326). No difference between the trials was observed for glucose and lactate concentrations, or for systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. Conclusion: CAF consumption failed to enhance the time trial performance of an 800-m run in overnight-fasting runners, when compared with DEC ingestion. In addition, no change was found in RPE, blood pressure levels, or blood glucose and lactate concentrations between the two trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sport and Performance Nutrition)

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10 pages, 863 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Olive Oil and Soybean Oil Based Intravenous Lipid Emulsions, Liver Biochemistry and Clinical Outcomes

by Fabio Araujo, Tanis R. Fenton, Sara Lukmanji and Maitreyi Raman

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060658 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6454

Abstract

Intravenous lipid emulsions are an essential component of parenteral nutrition (PN). Omega-6 reducing strategies may improve outcomes, including reduced PN associated liver disease, however evidence to support this recommendation is insufficient. The primary objective was to compare serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), among patients [...] Read more.

Intravenous lipid emulsions are an essential component of parenteral nutrition (PN). Omega-6 reducing strategies may improve outcomes, including reduced PN associated liver disease, however evidence to support this recommendation is insufficient. The primary objective was to compare serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), among patients provided with either soybean oil (Intralipid) or predominantly olive oil (Clinoleic) lipid emulsions. In this quasi-experimental study, we reviewed the medical records of surgical and medical adult patients who received lipid emulsions for at least seven consecutive days. Among the 206 patients (110—Intralipid, 96—Clinoleic) there was no significant difference in ALP and remaining liver function tests within 2 weeks of PN therapy initiation between groups, even after control for lipid doses. Macronutrient dosing was similar. Triglyceride level was higher by 0.7 mmol/L in the Clinoleic group; confidence interval 0.21 to 1.1; p = 0.004. The 30-day mortality, length of hospital stay, and proportion of patients admitted to intensive care were not significantly different. The Clinoleic group had a higher infection rate (36% vs. 22%, p = 0.031) and longer intensive care stays (p = 0.045). Well-designed randomized clinical trials comparing these lipid emulsions are necessary to confirm Intralipid superiority over Clinoleic in relation to infections and serum triglycerides. Full article

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9 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Randomized Study to Compare a Monthly to a Daily Administration of Vitamin D₃ Supplementation

by Sophie De Niet, Monte Coffiner, Stéphanie Da Silva, Bernard Jandrain, Jean-Claude Souberbielle and Etienne Cavalier

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060659 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6921

Abstract

We aimed to determine whether a cumulative dose of vitamin D₃ produces the same effects on the serum concentration of 25(OH)D₃ if it is given daily or monthly. This is a monocentric, two-armed, randomized, interventional, open, and parallel study conducted from [...] Read more.

We aimed to determine whether a cumulative dose of vitamin D₃ produces the same effects on the serum concentration of 25(OH)D₃ if it is given daily or monthly. This is a monocentric, two-armed, randomized, interventional, open, and parallel study conducted from November 2016 to March 2017 in Belgium. We randomized 60 subjects with vitamin D deficiency to receive 2000 IU vitamin D₃ daily or 50,000 IU monthly. The same cumulative dose of vitamin D₃ was given to each treatment group (150,000 IU). The 25(OH)D₃ serum concentrations from baseline to day 75 were 14.3 ± 3.7 to 27.8 ± 3.9 ng/mL in the monthly group and 14.1 ± 3.4 to 28.8 ± 5.4 ng/mL in the daily group. The mean change versus the baseline level was significantly different between the groups at day 2, 4, 7, and 14 and no longer different from day 25. One day after the intake of vitamin D₃, as expected, serum 25(OH)D₃ and 1,25(OH)₂D₃ increased significantly in the monthly group, whereas they did not change significantly in the daily group. The median time to reach the 20 ng/mL target concentration was significantly different in the two groups, in favor of the monthly regimen (1 day versus 14 days; p = 0.02). In conclusion, a monthly administration of 50,000 IU vitamin D₃ provides an effective tool for a rapid normalization of 25(OH)D₃ in deficient subjects. A daily administration of the same cumulative dose is similarly effective but takes two weeks longer to reach the desirable level of 20 ng/mL. Full article

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14 pages, 1054 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study to Compare the Safety and Efficacy of Low Dose Enhanced Wild Blueberry Powder and Wild Blueberry Extract (ThinkBlue™) in Maintenance of Episodic and Working Memory in Older Adults

by Adrian R. Whyte, Nancy Cheng, Emilie Fromentin and Claire M. Williams

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060660 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 101 | Viewed by 14785

Abstract

Previous research has shown beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich diets in ameliorating cognitive decline in aging adults. Here, using a randomized, double blinded, placebo-controlled chronic intervention, we investigated the effect of two proprietary blueberry formulations on cognitive performance in older adults; a whole wild [...] Read more.

Previous research has shown beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich diets in ameliorating cognitive decline in aging adults. Here, using a randomized, double blinded, placebo-controlled chronic intervention, we investigated the effect of two proprietary blueberry formulations on cognitive performance in older adults; a whole wild blueberry powder at 500 mg (WBP500) and 1000 mg (WBP1000) and a purified extract at 100 mg (WBE111). One hundred and twenty-two older adults (65–80 years) were randomly allocated to a 6-month, daily regimen of either placebo or one of the three interventions. Participants were tested at baseline, 3, and 6 months on a battery of cognitive tasks targeting episodic memory, working memory and executive function, alongside mood and cardiovascular health parameters. Linear mixed model analysis found intervention to be a significant predictor of delayed word recognition on the Reys Auditory Verbal Learning Task (RAVLT), with simple contrast analysis revealing significantly better performance following WBE111 at 3 months. Similarly, performance on the Corsi Block task was predicted by treatment, with simple contrast analysis revealing a trend for better performance at 3 months following WBE111. Treatment also significantly predicted systolic blood pressure (SBP) with simple contrast analysis revealing lower SBP following intervention with WBE111 in comparison to placebo. These results indicate 3 months intervention with WBE111 can facilitate better episodic memory performance in an elderly population and reduce cardiovascular risk factors over 6 months. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavonoid Intake and Human Health)

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13 pages, 1919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Low-Carbohydrate Diet on Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

by Li-Li Wang, Qi Wang, Yong Hong, Omorogieva Ojo, Qing Jiang, Yun-Ying Hou, Yu-Hua Huang and Xiao-Hua Wang

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060661 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 29766

Abstract

Objective: In China, a low-fat diet (LFD) is mainly recommended to help improve blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) has been shown to be effective in improving blood glucose levels in America and [...] Read more.

Objective: In China, a low-fat diet (LFD) is mainly recommended to help improve blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) has been shown to be effective in improving blood glucose levels in America and England. A few studies, primarily randomized controlled trials, have been reported in China as well. Method: Firstly, we designed two ‘six-point formula’ methods, which met the requirements of LCD and LFD, respectively. Fifty-six T2DM patients were recruited and randomly allocated to the LCD group (n = 28) and the LFD group (n = 28). The LCD group received education about LCD’s six-point formula, while the LFD group received education about LFD’s six-point formula. The follow-up time was three months. The indicators for glycemic control and other metabolic parameters were collected and compared between the two groups. Results: Forty-nine patients completed the study. The proportions of calories from three macronutrients the patients consumed met the requirements of LCD and LFD. Compared to the LFD group, there was a greater decrease in HbA1c level in the LCD group (−0.63% vs. −0.31%, p < 0.05). The dosages of insulin and fasting blood glucoses (FBG) in the third month were lower than those at baseline in both groups. Compared with baseline values, body mass index (BMI) and total cholesterol (TC) in the LCD group were significantly reduced in the third month (p < 0.05); however, there were no statistically significant differences in the LFD group. Conclusions: LCD can improve blood glucose more than LFD in Chinese patients with T2DM. It can also regulate blood lipid, reduce BMI, and decrease insulin dose in patients with T2DM. In addition, the six-point formula is feasible, easily operable, and a practical educational diet for Chinese patients with T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Chronic Conditions)

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8 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality of Life in Patients with Gluten Neuropathy: A Case-Controlled Study

by Panagiotis Zis, Ptolemaios Georgios Sarrigiannis, Dasappaiah Ganesh Rao and Marios Hadjivassiliou

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060662 - 23 May 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7072

Abstract

Background: Gluten neuropathy (GN) is defined as an otherwise idiopathic peripheral neuropathy in the presence of serological evidence of gluten sensitivity (positive native gliadin antibodies and/or transglutaminase or endomysium antibodies). We aimed to compare the quality of life (QoL) of GN patients with [...] Read more.

Background: Gluten neuropathy (GN) is defined as an otherwise idiopathic peripheral neuropathy in the presence of serological evidence of gluten sensitivity (positive native gliadin antibodies and/or transglutaminase or endomysium antibodies). We aimed to compare the quality of life (QoL) of GN patients with that of control subjects and to investigate the effects of a gluten-free diet (GFD) on the QoL. Methods: All consecutive patients with GN attending a specialist neuropathy clinic were invited to participate. The Overall Neuropathy Limitations Scale (ONLS) was used to assess the severity of the neuropathy. The 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) questionnaire was used to measure participants’ QoL. A strict GFD was defined as effectively being able to eliminate all circulating gluten sensitivity-related antibodies. Results: Fifty-three patients with GN and 53 age- and gender-matched controls were recruited. Compared to controls, GN patients showed significantly worse scores in the physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, energy/fatigue, and general health subdomains of the SF-36. After adjusting for age, gender, and disease severity, being on a strict GFD correlated with better SF-36 scores in the pain domain of the SF-36 (beta 0.317, p = 0.019) and in the overall health change domain of the SF-36 (beta 0.306, p = 0.017). Conclusion: In GN patients, physical dysfunctioning is the major determinant of poor QoL compared to controls. Routine checking of the elimination of gluten sensitivity-related antibodies that results from a strict GFD should be encouraged, as such elimination ameliorates the overall pain and health scores, indicating a better QoL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraintestinal Manifestations of Coeliac Disease)

12 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Omega 3 Consumption and Anxiety Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

by Lara Natacci, Dirce M. Marchioni, Alessandra C. Goulart, Maria Angélica Nunes, Arlinda B. Moreno, Letícia O. Cardoso, Luana Giatti, Maria Del Carmen B. Molina, Itamar S. Santos, André R. Brunoni, Paulo A. Lotufo and Isabela M. Bensenor

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060663 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 8494

Abstract

Few studies have evaluated the association between diet and mental disorders, and it has been established that ω-3 (n-3) fatty acids may have a beneficial effect for sufferers of anxiety disorders. This study is part of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of [...] Read more.

Few studies have evaluated the association between diet and mental disorders, and it has been established that ω-3 (n-3) fatty acids may have a beneficial effect for sufferers of anxiety disorders. This study is part of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)—a population-based cohort study on diet and mental health—and searched for associations between anxiety disorders and consumption of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The study had a cross-sectional design, with a total sample of 12,268 adults. Dietary exposure was measured by a quantitative food-frequency questionnaire, and mental diagnoses were assessed by the Clinical Interview Schedule—Revised Version and diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Logistic regression models were built using quintiles of n-3, ω 6 (n-6), n-6/n-3 ratio, and PUFA, using the 1st quintile as reference. Anxiety disorders were identified in 15.4% of the sample. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, cardiovascular risk factors, diet variables, and depression, intakes in the 5th quintile were inversely associated with anxiety disorders for EPA (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98), DHA (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98), and DPA (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98). Participants in the fifth quintile of n-6/n-3 ratio had a positive association with anxiety disorders. Although results suggest a possible protective effect of n-3 fatty acids against anxiety, all associations lost significance after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Full article

9 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Cholesterol Intake Is Not Associated with Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in the Framingham Offspring Study

by Siyouneh Baghdasarian, Hsuan-Ping Lin, Richard T. Pickering, Melanie M. Mott, Martha R. Singer, M. Loring Bradlee and Lynn L. Moore

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060665 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5652

Abstract

Identification of diet and lifestyle risk factors for prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is of great importance. The specific role of dietary cholesterol (DC) in T2DM risk is unclear. This study uses data from 2192 Framingham Offspring Study subjects to estimate [...] Read more.

Identification of diet and lifestyle risk factors for prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is of great importance. The specific role of dietary cholesterol (DC) in T2DM risk is unclear. This study uses data from 2192 Framingham Offspring Study subjects to estimate the effects of DC alone and in combination with markers of a healthy diet and other lifestyle factors on fasting glucose and risk of T2DM or impaired fasting glucose (IFG) over 20 years of follow-up. Dietary data were derived from two sets of three-day food records. Statistical methods included mixed linear regression and Cox proportional hazard’s modeling to adjust for confounding. There were no statistically significant differences in glucose levels over 20 years of follow-up across DC intake categories (<200, 200–<300, and ≥300 mg/day) and no increased risk of T2DM/IFG associated with higher intakes. The HR for T2DM/IFG associated with consumption of ≥300 mg/day of DC was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.68–1.10). In contrast, subjects with lower intakes of fish, whole grains, and fiber had higher T2DM/IFG risk. DC consumption was not associated with fasting glucose levels or risk of T2DM/IFG over 20 years of follow-up. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Cholesterol:Is It Related to Chronic Disease)

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12 pages, 467 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin K Antagonists and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: A 24-Month Follow-Up

by Antoine Brangier, Guylaine Ferland, Yves Rolland, Jennifer Gautier, Catherine Féart and Cedric Annweiler

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060666 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5464

Abstract

Vitamin K participates in brain physiology. This study aimed to determine whether using vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), which interfere with the vitamin K cycle, were (i) cross-sectionally associated with altered cognitive performance, and (ii) independent predictors of cognitive changes in older adults over [...] Read more.

Vitamin K participates in brain physiology. This study aimed to determine whether using vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), which interfere with the vitamin K cycle, were (i) cross-sectionally associated with altered cognitive performance, and (ii) independent predictors of cognitive changes in older adults over 24 months. Information was collected on the use of VKAs (i.e., warfarin, acenocoumarol, and fluindione) among 378 geriatric outpatients (mean, 82.3 ± 5.6 years; 60.1% female). Global cognitive performance and executive functions were assessed with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) scores, respectively, at baseline and after 12 and 24 months of follow-up. Age, gender, body mass index, mean arterial pressure, disability, gait speed, comorbidities, atrial fibrillation, stroke, carotid artery stenosis, leukoaraiosis grade on computed tomography (CT) scan, psychoactive drugs, antidementia drugs, blood-thinning drugs (i.e., anticoagulants other than VKAs, antiplatelet medications), serum creatinine levels, and vitamin B12 concentrations were considered as potential confounders. Using VKAs was associated with lower (i.e., worse) FAB score at baseline (adjusted β = −2.1, p = 0.026), and with a decrease in FAB score after 24 months (adjusted β = −203.6%, p = 0.010), but not after 12 months (p = 0.659). Using VKAs was not associated with any change in MMSE score at baseline (p = 0.655), after 12 months (p = 0.603), or after 24 months (p = 0.201). In conclusion, we found more severe executive dysfunction at baseline and incident executive decline over 24 months among geriatric patients using VKAs, when compared with their counterparts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin K in Human Health and Disease)

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9 pages, 1255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Fructose Corn-Syrup-Sweetened Beverage Intake Increases 5-Hour Breast Milk Fructose Concentrations in Lactating Women

by Paige K. Berger, David A. Fields, Ellen W. Demerath, Hideji Fujiwara and Michael I. Goran

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060669 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 10418

Abstract

This study determined the effects of consuming a high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)-sweetened beverage on breast milk fructose, glucose, and lactose concentrations in lactating women. At six weeks postpartum, lactating mothers (n = 41) were randomized to a crossover study to consume a [...] Read more.

This study determined the effects of consuming a high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)-sweetened beverage on breast milk fructose, glucose, and lactose concentrations in lactating women. At six weeks postpartum, lactating mothers (n = 41) were randomized to a crossover study to consume a commercially available HFCS-sweetened beverage or artificially sweetened control beverage. At each session, mothers pumped a complete breast milk expression every hour for six consecutive hours. The baseline fasting concentrations of breast milk fructose, glucose, and lactose were 5.0 ± 1.3 µg/mL, 0.6 ± 0.3 mg/mL, and 6.8 ± 1.6 g/dL, respectively. The changes over time in breast milk sugars were significant only for fructose (treatment × time, p < 0.01). Post hoc comparisons showed the HFCS-sweetened beverage vs. control beverage increased breast milk fructose at 120 min (8.8 ± 2.1 vs. 5.3 ± 1.9 µg/mL), 180 min (9.4 ± 1.9 vs. 5.2 ± 2.2 µg/mL), 240 min (7.8 ± 1.7 vs. 5.1 ± 1.9 µg/mL), and 300 min (6.9 ± 1.4 vs. 4.9 ± 1.9 µg/mL) (all p < 0.05). The mean incremental area under the curve for breast milk fructose was also different between treatments (14.7 ± 1.2 vs. −2.60 ± 1.2 µg/mL × 360 min, p < 0.01). There was no treatment × time interaction for breast milk glucose or lactose. Our data suggest that the consumption of an HFCS-sweetened beverage increased breast milk fructose concentrations, which remained elevated up to five hours post-consumption. Full article

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13 pages, 528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Processing on the In Vitro and In Vivo Protein Quality of Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris and Vicia Faba)

by Matthew G. Nosworthy, Gerardo Medina, Adam J. Franczyk, Jason Neufeld, Paulyn Appah, Alphonsus Utioh, Peter Frohlich and James D. House

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060671 - 25 May 2018

Cited by 119 | Viewed by 9401

Abstract

In this work, the protein quality of different bean types after undergoing the preparatory methods of baking, cooking and extrusion was assayed. Protein quality was assessed using a rodent bioassay to evaluate growth and protein digestibility while amino acid composition was determined via [...] Read more.

In this work, the protein quality of different bean types after undergoing the preparatory methods of baking, cooking and extrusion was assayed. Protein quality was assessed using a rodent bioassay to evaluate growth and protein digestibility while amino acid composition was determined via HPLC. In vivo protein digestibility was compared to an in vitro assessment method. The average protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) for processed beans was higher than the digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) (61% vs. 45%). Extrusion/cooking of Phaseolus varieties resulted in higher PDCAAS (66% on average) and DIAAS values (61% on average) than baked (52% and 48%) while baked faba beans had higher PDCAAS (66%) and DIAAS (61%) values. A significant correlation was found between PDCAAS and in vitro PDCAAS (R² = 0.7497). This demonstrates which bean processing method will generate the optimal protein quality, which has benefits for both industrial production and individual domestic preparation. Full article

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19 pages, 3947 KiB

Open AccessArticle

α-Chaconine and α-Solanine Inhibit RL95-2 Endometrium Cancer Cell Proliferation by Reducing Expression of Akt (Ser473) and ERα (Ser167)

by Ayşe Kübra Karaboğa Arslan and Mükerrem Betül Yerer

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060672 - 25 May 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5674

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential inhibitory effect of α-chaconine and α-solanine on RL95-2 estrogen receptor (ER) positive human endometrial cancer cell line and to identify the effect of these glycoalkaloids on the Akt signaling and ERα. The cell [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential inhibitory effect of α-chaconine and α-solanine on RL95-2 estrogen receptor (ER) positive human endometrial cancer cell line and to identify the effect of these glycoalkaloids on the Akt signaling and ERα. The cell proliferation profiles and the cytotoxicity studies were performed by Real-Time Cell Analyzer (xCELLigence) and compared with Sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assay. The effects of α-chaconine (2.5, 5, 10 µM), α-solanine (20, 30, 50 µM), API-1 (25 µM) and MPP (20 µM) effects on Akt (Ser473) and ERα (Ser167) expressions evaluated by Western blot and qPCR method. Their IC₅₀ values were as α-chaconine (4.72 µM) < MPP (20.01 µM) < α-solanine (26.27 µM) < API-1 (56.67 µM). 10 μM α-chaconine and 20, 30 and 50 μM α-solanine were effective in decreasing p-Akt(Ser473)/Akt ratio compared to positive control API-1. When the p-ERα/ERα ratios were evaluated, it was observed that α-chaconine (2.5, 5, 10 μM) and α-solanine (50 μM) were as effective as the specific ERα inhibitor MPP in reducing the ratio of p-ERα/ERα compared to the control group. In conclusion, it has been shown that the proliferation of α-chaconine and α-solanine in human endometrial carcinoma cells reduces the expression and activity of the Akt and ERα signaling pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cancer Prevention and Therapy)

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14 pages, 1412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An 8-Week Ketogenic Low Carbohydrate, High Fat Diet Enhanced Exhaustive Exercise Capacity in Mice

by Sihui Ma, Qingyi Huang, Koichi Yada, Chunhong Liu and Katsuhiko Suzuki

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060673 - 25 May 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 20844

Abstract

Current fueling tactics for endurance exercise encourage athletes to ingest a high carbohydrate diet. However, athletes are not generally encouraged to use fat, the largest energy reserve in the human body. A low carbohydrate, high fat ketogenic diet (KD) is a nutritional approach [...] Read more.

Current fueling tactics for endurance exercise encourage athletes to ingest a high carbohydrate diet. However, athletes are not generally encouraged to use fat, the largest energy reserve in the human body. A low carbohydrate, high fat ketogenic diet (KD) is a nutritional approach ensuring that the body utilizes lipids. Although KD has been associated with weight-loss, enhanced fat utilization in muscle and other beneficial effects, there is currently no clear proof whether it could lead to performance advantage. To evaluate the effects of KD on endurance exercise capacity, we studied the performance of mice subjected to a running model after consuming KD for eight weeks. Weight dropped dramatically in KD-feeding mice, even though they ate more calories. KD-feeding mice showed enhanced running time without aggravated muscle injury. Blood biochemistry and correlation analysis indicated the potential mechanism is likely to be a keto-adaptation enhanced capacity to transport and metabolize fat. KD also showed a potential preventive effect on organ injury caused by acute exercise, although KD failed to exert protection from muscle injury. Ultimately, KD may contribute to prolonged exercise capacity. Full article

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15 pages, 2507 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictors of the Healthy Eating Index and Glycemic Index in Multi-Ethnic Colorectal Cancer Families

by S. Pamela K. Shiao, James Grayson, Amanda Lie and Chong Ho Yu

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060674 - 26 May 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5458

Abstract

For personalized nutrition in preparation for precision healthcare, we examined the predictors of healthy eating, using the healthy eating index (HEI) and glycemic index (GI), in family-based multi-ethnic colorectal cancer (CRC) families. A total of 106 participants, 53 CRC cases and 53 family [...] Read more.

For personalized nutrition in preparation for precision healthcare, we examined the predictors of healthy eating, using the healthy eating index (HEI) and glycemic index (GI), in family-based multi-ethnic colorectal cancer (CRC) families. A total of 106 participants, 53 CRC cases and 53 family members from multi-ethnic families participated in the study. Machine learning validation procedures, including the ensemble method and generalized regression prediction, Elastic Net with Akaike’s Information Criterion with correction and Leave-One-Out cross validation methods, were applied to validate the results for enhanced prediction and reproducibility. Models were compared based on HEI scales for the scores of 77 versus 80 as the status of healthy eating, predicted from individual dietary parameters and health outcomes. Gender and CRC status were interactive as additional predictors of HEI based on the HEI score of 77. Predictors of HEI 80 as the criterion score of a good diet included five significant dietary parameters (with intake amount): whole fruit (1 cup), milk or milk alternative such as soy drinks (6 oz), whole grain (1 oz), saturated fat (15 g), and oil and nuts (1 oz). Compared to the GI models, HEI models presented more accurate and fitted models. Milk or a milk alternative such as soy drink (6 oz) is the common significant parameter across HEI and GI predictive models. These results point to the importance of healthy eating, with the appropriate amount of healthy foods, as modifiable factors for cancer prevention. Full article

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13 pages, 1763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microgreens Production with Low Potassium Content for Patients with Impaired Kidney Function

by Massimiliano Renna, Maria Castellino, Beniamino Leoni, Vito Michele Paradiso and Pietro Santamaria

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060675 - 26 May 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 9625

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease represents a global problem together with other so-called ‘lifestyle-related diseases’. Unlike the healthy population, for the patients with impaired kidney function, it is of course prudent to recommend a restriction of high-potassium foods. Thus, it is suggested to limit the [...] Read more.

Chronic kidney disease represents a global problem together with other so-called ‘lifestyle-related diseases’. Unlike the healthy population, for the patients with impaired kidney function, it is of course prudent to recommend a restriction of high-potassium foods. Thus, it is suggested to limit the consumption of vegetables, because they generally contain high concentrations of potassium. At the same time, a lower consumption of vegetables reduces the intake of healthy compounds such as vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants, which also reduces the vegetables’ potential benefit in chronic kidney disease patients. Microgreens are an emerging class of specialty crop that represent a nutritious and refined food. In this study, for the first time, some chicory (local variety ‘Molfetta’ and cultivar ‘Italico a costa rossa’) and lettuce (cultivar ‘Bionda da taglio’) genotypes were grown using a hydroponic system with different potassium (K) levels (0, 29.1, 58.4, and 117 mg L⁻¹) in order to produce microgreens with a low potassium content. The crop performances, cations content, proximate composition, and antioxidant activity were analyzed. Independent of the genotype, the K content in the microgreens was successfully reduced using a nutrient solution (NS), without K or with 29.1 mg K L⁻¹, which supplied between 103 and 129 mg of K 100 g⁻¹ FW (about 7.7–8.6% of the K daily intake that was recommended for the patients that were affected by chronic kidney disease). Whereas, 100 g of microgreens that were grown by using an NS with 58.4 or 117 mg K L⁻¹ supply between 225 and 250 mg of K (about 15.8–16.5% of the K daily intake recommended for patients affected by chronic kidney disease). No differences were observed in terms of the shoot height, dry matter, proximate composition, and visual quality. A slightly lower yield was observed using an NS with a K concentration <58.4 mg L⁻¹. These results suggest that by using an NS without K or with low K concentrations, it is possible to obtain a useful reduction of K in microgreens, without negatively affecting the quality. Unlike conventional vegetables, the microgreens that were produced in the present study could reduce the potassium intake in patients with impaired kidney function who were accustomed to eating vegetable-based dishes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients and Renal Function)

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20 pages, 290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Associated with Undernutrition in Children under the Age of Two Years: Secondary Data Analysis Based on the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2012–2013

by Jawad Tariq, Amal Sajjad, Rubeena Zakar, Muhammad Zakria Zakar and Florian Fischer

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060676 - 26 May 2018

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 8542

Abstract

In Pakistan, 96% of the children under the age of two years do not receive an adequate diet. The main aim of this paper is to identify the sociodemographic, nutritional, and health-related factors associated with stunting, wasting, and underweight in children under the [...] Read more.

In Pakistan, 96% of the children under the age of two years do not receive an adequate diet. The main aim of this paper is to identify the sociodemographic, nutritional, and health-related factors associated with stunting, wasting, and underweight in children under the age of two years in Pakistan. Secondary data analysis was performed based on the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2012–2013. The analysis was limited to children under the age of two years (n = 984). Analysis was done using bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression. The incidence of stunting, wasting, and underweight in children was 28.3%, 12.1%, and 27.9%, respectively. The odds of stunting, wasting, and underweight increased with the child’s age. The odds of stunting and underweight increased with the mother’s low body mass index, low access to information, high birth order of child, consanguineous marriages, father’s low education, rural settlement, poor toilet facilities, and low vitamin A consumption. The odds of wasting increased in children who were not being breastfed, but no significant relation was seen with stunting and underweight. There is a need to improve child nutritional status in Pakistan by addressing issues such as poverty, low parental education, low micronutrient intake, and targeting provinces where undernutrition was found to be higher. Full article

12 pages, 966 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Study of the Role of Epidermal Growth Factor on the Fractional Excretion of Magnesium in Children: Effect of Calcineurin Inhibitors

by Kristien J. Ledeganck, Charlotte Anné, Amandine De Monie, Sarang Meybosch, Gert A. Verpooten, Marleen Vinckx, Koen Van Hoeck, Annelies Van Eyck, Benedicte Y. De Winter and Dominique Trouet

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060677 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4164

Abstract

Background: It was shown in animal models and adults that the epidermal growth factor (EGF) is involved in the pathophysiology of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) induced renal magnesium loss. In children, however, the exact mechanism remains unclear, which was set as the purpose of [...] Read more.

Background: It was shown in animal models and adults that the epidermal growth factor (EGF) is involved in the pathophysiology of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) induced renal magnesium loss. In children, however, the exact mechanism remains unclear, which was set as the purpose of the present study. Methods: Children with nephrotic syndrome and renal transplant children treated with CNI (n = 50) and non-CNI treated children (n = 46) were included in this study. Urine and serum samples were collected at three time points to determine magnesium, creatinine, and EGF. The magnesium intake was calculated from a food frequency questionnaire. Results: Serum Mg²⁺ and urinary EGF/creatinine were significantly lower in the CNI treated children, with significantly more CNI-treated children developing hypomagnesaemia. In the latter patients, the fractional excretion of magnesium (FE Mg²⁺) was significantly higher. Urinary EGF, age, renal function, and serum magnesium were independent predictors of the FE Mg²⁺. Only 29% of the children reached the recommended daily intake of magnesium. The magnesium intake did not differ between hypomagnesemic and normomagnesemic patients and was not a predictor of the FE Mg²⁺. Conclusions: In CNI-treated children who developed hypomagnesemia, the FE Mg²⁺ was increased. The urinary EGF concentration, age, and renal function are independent predictors of the FE Mg²⁺. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnesium Intake and Human Health)

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9 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Possible Synergistic Effects of Glutathione and C-Reactive Protein in the Progression of Liver Cirrhosis

by Chia-Yu Lai, Shao-Bin Cheng, Teng-Yu Lee, Hsiao-Tien Liu, Shih-Chien Huang and Yi-Chia Huang

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060678 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4379

Abstract

Liver cirrhosis is often associated with increased inflammatory responses and changes of glutathione (GSH) status. The possible interactions between these two factors in mediating damages of liver function remain unclear. Here, we measured the inflammatory responses and GSH status in liver cirrhotic patients [...] Read more.

Liver cirrhosis is often associated with increased inflammatory responses and changes of glutathione (GSH) status. The possible interactions between these two factors in mediating damages of liver function remain unclear. Here, we measured the inflammatory responses and GSH status in liver cirrhotic patients and compared them with healthy subjects. In addition, we assessed the relationship of the GSH status and levels of inflammatory markers with the severity of the disease. This was a cross-sectional study. In total, we recruited 63 liver cirrhotic patients with Child–Turcotte–Pugh class A scores, and 12 patients with class B–C scores, together with 110 healthy subjects. Patients with class B–C scores showed the highest level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) when compared with class A patients or healthy subjects. Patients in class A group had significantly higher GSH levels when compared with class B–C group or healthy subjects. After adjusting for potential confounders and each other, serum hs-CRP levels showed positive association with the Child–Turcotte–Pugh scores, while GSH levels showed negative association with Child–Turcotte–Pugh scores. Interactions were found between levels of plasma GSH and serum hs-CRP (β = 0.004, p = 0.016). CRP and GSH levels, which had showed interactions, were associated with the severity of liver cirrhosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammation- An Ancient Battle. What are the Roles of Nutrients?)

8 pages, 1127 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

IDH2 Deficiency Aggravates Fructose-Induced NAFLD by Modulating Hepatic Fatty Acid Metabolism and Activating Inflammatory Signaling in Female Mice

by Jeong Hoon Pan, Hoe-Sung Kim, Kaleigh Elizabeth Beane, Allison Michelle Montalbano, Jin Hyup Lee, Young Jun Kim, Jun Ho Kim, Byungwhi Caleb Kong, Sangyub Kim, Jeen-Woo Park, Eui-Cheol Shin and Jae Kyeom Kim

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060679 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4264

Abstract

Fructose is a strong risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), resulting from the disruption of redox systems by excessive reactive oxygen species production in the liver cells. Of note, recent epidemiological studies indicated that women are more prone to developing metabolic [...] Read more.

Fructose is a strong risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), resulting from the disruption of redox systems by excessive reactive oxygen species production in the liver cells. Of note, recent epidemiological studies indicated that women are more prone to developing metabolic syndrome in response to fructose-sweetened beverages. Hence, we examined whether disruption of the redox system through a deletion of NADPH supplying mitochondrial enzyme, NADP⁺-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH2), exacerbates fructose-induced NAFLD conditions in C57BL/6 female mice. Wild-type (WT) and IDH2 knockout (KO) mice were treated with either water or 34% fructose water over six weeks. NAFLD phenotypes and key proteins and mRNAs involved in the inflammatory pathway (e.g., NF-κB p65 and IL-1β) were assessed. Hepatic lipid accumulation was significantly increased in IDH2 KO mice fed fructose compared to the WT counterpart. Neutrophil infiltration was observed only in IDH2 KO mice fed fructose. Furthermore, phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and expression of IL-1β was remarkably upregulated in IDH2 KO mice fed fructose, and expression of IκBα was decreased by fructose treatment in both WT and IDH2 KO groups. For the first time, we report our novel findings that IDH2 KO female mice may be more susceptible to fructose-induced NAFLD and the associated inflammatory response, suggesting a mechanistic role of IDH2 in metabolic diseases. Full article

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14 pages, 950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin D Status and Immune Health Outcomes in a Cross-Sectional Study and a Randomized Trial of Healthy Young Children

by Neil R. Brett, Paula Lavery, Sherry Agellon, Catherine A. Vanstone, Susan Goruk, Catherine J. Field and Hope A. Weiler

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060680 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7785

Abstract

In young children, the relationship between vitamin D and biomarkers of immune function is not well elucidated. The objective was to investigate relationships between vitamin D and immune function in young children. Data were from a cross-sectional study (study 1) of healthy children [...] Read more.

In young children, the relationship between vitamin D and biomarkers of immune function is not well elucidated. The objective was to investigate relationships between vitamin D and immune function in young children. Data were from a cross-sectional study (study 1) of healthy children 1.8–5.9 years (n = 457) and a 12 weeks trial using vitamin D fortified foods (study 2) in healthy 1.8–8.7 years old (n = 77) in Montreal, Canada. Vitamin D status and ex vivo immune function were assessed. In study 1 (male: n = 242; 53%), plasma IL-6, TNFα and CRP were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in children with 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) ≥ 75 nmol/L compared to <50 nmol/L. In study 2 (male: n = 40; 52%), there were no differences in illness outcomes (duration, number of reported illnesses, etc.) among groups. In a 6–8 years old sub-group, only the peripheral blood lymphocytes were higher in the 600 IU/day vitamin D group compared to control (percent of white blood cells; control: 41.6 ± 8.0%, 600 IU/d: 48.6 ± 8.5%). IL-6 production (but not other cytokines) by isolated mononuclear cells, after ex vivo mitogen stimulation, was lower in the intervention groups compared to the control group at 12 weeks. In conclusion, in healthy young children with sufficient vitamin D status, increasing vitamin D intakes does not confer additional advantage to immune function. Full article

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14 pages, 4926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effect of Aplysin Supplementation on Intestinal Permeability and Microbiota in Rats Treated with Ethanol and Iron

by Yan Ma, Ruiying Li, Ying Liu, Man Liu and Hui Liang

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060681 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6328

Abstract

Aplysin, a kind of phytochemicals or phytonutrients, is purified from red alga Laurencia tristicha. The present study aims to investigate the influence of aplysin on changes of intestinal permeability and microbiota induced by excessive ethanol and iron. Thirty male rats were randomly divided [...] Read more.

Aplysin, a kind of phytochemicals or phytonutrients, is purified from red alga Laurencia tristicha. The present study aims to investigate the influence of aplysin on changes of intestinal permeability and microbiota induced by excessive ethanol and iron. Thirty male rats were randomly divided into three groups (10/group): control group (normal saline); ethanol + iron group as EI treated with ethanol (8–12 mL/kg/day) and iron (1000 mg/kg) in diet; EI supplemented with aplysin (150 mg/kg/day) group as AEI; the trial lasts for 12 weeks. The result showed that levels of plasma endotoxin, fatty acid-binding protein 2, D-lactic acid, diamine oxidase were increased in rats in the EI group; and significantly decreased by 14%, 17%, 26%, 16%, respectively (p < 0.05) in the AEI group after the 12-week aplysin treatment. Moreover, in the AEI group the amount of Escherichia coli and Bacteroides fragilis were higher, while the amount of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Clostridium were lower than those in the EI group. The expressions of iron transporters divalent-metal transporter 1(DMT1) and ferroportin 1(FPN1) were significantly upregulated in the EI group compared to those in the control group. In conclusion, aplysin could effectively improve intestinal permeability and intestinal flora disorder induced with excessive ethanol and iron. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Solutions for a Changing World)

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12 pages, 1118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Dietary Habits of Canadians by Eating Location and Occasion: Findings from the Canadian Community Health Survey, Cycle 2.2

by Stephanie K. Nishi, Mahsa Jessri and Mary L’Abbé

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060682 - 27 May 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6011

Abstract

Occasion and location of food environment has an influence on dietary habits, nutritional quality and overall health and nutrition-related chronic disease risk. Eating occasion and location was assessed in 20,402 Canadians aged ≥ 2 years, with a focus on energy, saturated fat, added [...] Read more.

Occasion and location of food environment has an influence on dietary habits, nutritional quality and overall health and nutrition-related chronic disease risk. Eating occasion and location was assessed in 20,402 Canadians aged ≥ 2 years, with a focus on energy, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium intake by age group. Data showed >80% of children, compared to ~60% of adolescents and adults, consumed three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) plus snacks in a day. Dinner contributed the most calories [ranging from 395 ± 11 kcal (2–3 year olds) to 952 ± 27 kcal (men 19–30 years)], saturated fat [7.4 ± 0.2% energy (2–3 year olds) to 9.1 ± 0.3% energy (women 31–50 years)], and sodium [851 ± 24 mg (2–3 year olds) to 1299 ± 69 mg (men 19–30 years)], while snacks contributed the most added sugars [22 ± 1 kcal (men >70 years) to 45 ± 1 kcal (2–3 year olds)]. By eating location, most Canadians (>90%) reported consuming food from home. Subsequently, home was associated with the majority of energy [1383 ± 23 kcal (women >70 years) to 2090 ± 35 kcal (boys 9–13 years)], saturated fat [20.4 ± 0.4%E (men 51–70 years) to 24.2 ± 0.4%E (2–3 year olds)], added sugars [77 ± 3 kcal (men 19–30 years) to 117 ± 2 kcal (2–3 year olds)], and sodium [2137 ± 59 mg (women 19–30 years) to 2638 ± 45 mg (men 51–70 years)] intakes. Reported eating behaviours suggest action is needed at individual and population levels to alter food purchasing and consumption habits, specifically with regards to snacking habits and foods prepared at home. Full article

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8 pages, 401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Standard Polymeric Formula Tube Feeding in Neurologically Impaired Children: A Five-Year Retrospective Study

by Valeria Dipasquale, Maria Ausilia Catena, Sabrina Cardile and Claudio Romano

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 684; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060684 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6022

Abstract

Malnutrition is frequent in neurologically impaired (NI) children. Enteral feeding via gastrostomy tube is increasingly being used to provide adequate nutrition. Our aim was to assess the outcomes of exclusive gastrostomy tube feeding with standard polymeric formula in children with NI, severe oro-motor [...] Read more.

Malnutrition is frequent in neurologically impaired (NI) children. Enteral feeding via gastrostomy tube is increasingly being used to provide adequate nutrition. Our aim was to assess the outcomes of exclusive gastrostomy tube feeding with standard polymeric formula in children with NI, severe oro-motor dysfunction, and malnutrition, and to investigate the role of the underlying NI-associated disease. A five-year retrospective study from January 2013 to November 2017 was conducted. The primary aim was to assess the nutritional outcomes of exclusive gastrostomy tube feeding with standard polymeric formula in malnourished NI children. The secondary aim was to investigate gastrostomy complications and the impact of the underlying NI-associated disease on the nutritional outcomes. We enrolled 110 consecutive children with NI. Of these patients, 34.5% (N = 38) were categorized as malnourished and started exclusive enteral feeding with a standard (1.0 kcal/mL) polymeric formula (Nutrini, Nutricia) after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement. Seventy-three percent of patients (N = 28) had cerebral palsy (CP); other diagnoses included metabolic (13%, N = 5) and genetic (13%, N = 5) diseases. Tricep skinfold thickness had significantly improved in all patients at 12-months follow-up, while body weight and body mass index showed significant increases mainly in children with CP. No serious complications occurred. We found that standard polymeric formula via gastrostomy tube represents a safe and efficient nutritional intervention in children with NI and malnutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Pediatric Gastroenterology: Selected Papers from SIGENP)

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7 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Small Intestinal Permeability and Gut-Transit Time Determined with Low and High Molecular Weight Fluorescein Isothiocyanate-Dextrans in C3H Mice

by Anni Woting and Michael Blaut

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060685 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 134 | Viewed by 12865

Abstract

Protocols for intestinal permeability measurements in mice using 4-kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated (FITC) dextran differ considerably among laboratories on the blood-sampling time. To find the optimal point in time for blood sampling, we administered 4-kDa FITC dextran to C3H mice and monitored the marker [...] Read more.

Protocols for intestinal permeability measurements in mice using 4-kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated (FITC) dextran differ considerably among laboratories on the blood-sampling time. To find the optimal point in time for blood sampling, we administered 4-kDa FITC dextran to C3H mice and monitored the marker in plasma over 8 h. We also determined gut-transit time using 70-kDa FITC dextran, which does not cross the intestinal epithelium. The 4-kDa FITC dextran concentration in plasma reached its maximum 45 min after administration. The 70-kDa FITC dextran reached the jejunum after 15 min and passed the entire small intestine within 1 h after its administration, demonstrating that 4-kDa FITC dextran measured in plasma 1 h after its oral application is a marker of small intestinal permeability. Full article

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14 pages, 2076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Fucoidan on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Transection and Medial Meniscectomy Induced Osteoarthritis in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats

by Sabri Sudirman, Alan Darmasaputra Ong, Heng-Wei Chang and Zwe-Ling Kong

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060686 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 9485

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) has become one of the most common disabilities among elders, especially in females. Obesity and mechanical injuries caused by OA are attributed to joint loading, cartilage disintegration, and bone loss, as well as inflammation. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments can be used [...] Read more.

Osteoarthritis (OA) has become one of the most common disabilities among elders, especially in females. Obesity and mechanical injuries caused by OA are attributed to joint loading, cartilage disintegration, and bone loss, as well as inflammation. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments can be used for OA. Fucoidan possesses several bioactivities such as antitumor, antiviral, anticoagulation, anti-obesity, and immunomodulation. This study aims to investigate the effect of fucoidan in surgery-induced OA on rats with diet-induced obesity. OA was induced by an anterior cruciate ligament transection and a partial medial meniscectomy (ACLT + MMx). The male SD rats were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks to induce obesity before causing ACLT + MMx to induce OA. The OA rats were administered with intragastric water or fucoidan in three different concentrations (32 mg/kg, 64 mg/kg, and 320 mg/kg) after the surgeries for 40 days with an HFD. We observed that the swelling in the knee joint was alleviated and the hind paw weight distribution was rectified after feeding them with fucoidan and that there was no significant effect on the weight gain and feed intake. Fucoidan administration indicated no significant variation on the high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-Cholesterol level, but it did indicate reduced plasma triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-Cholesterol levels. In addition, the weight-bearing tests showed an improvement in the fucoidan-treated group. Our results suggested that fucoidan may improve meniscal/ligamentous injury and obesity-induced OA. Full article

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15 pages, 2206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Are Front-of-Package Warning Labels More Effective at Communicating Nutrition Information than Traffic-Light Labels? A Randomized Controlled Experiment in a Brazilian Sample

by Neha Khandpur, Priscila De Morais Sato, Laís Amaral Mais, Ana Paula Bortoletto Martins, Carla Galvão Spinillo, Mariana Tarricone Garcia, Carlos Felipe Urquizar Rojas and Patrícia Constante Jaime

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060688 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 145 | Viewed by 15718

Abstract

Background: Brazil is currently debating the implementation of front-of-package labels. This study tested if Warning labels (WLs) improved consumer understanding, perceptions, and purchase intentions compared to Traffic-Light labels (TLLs) in 1607 Brazilian adults. Methods: In this online, randomized controlled experiment participants saw images [...] Read more.

Background: Brazil is currently debating the implementation of front-of-package labels. This study tested if Warning labels (WLs) improved consumer understanding, perceptions, and purchase intentions compared to Traffic-Light labels (TLLs) in 1607 Brazilian adults. Methods: In this online, randomized controlled experiment participants saw images of 10 products and answered questions twice—once in a no-label, control condition and then again in a randomly assigned label condition. The relative differences in responses between WLs and TLLs between control and label conditions were estimated using one-way ANOVAs or Chi-square tests. Results: Presenting WLs on products compared to TLLs helped participants: (i) improve their understanding of excess nutrient content (27.0% versus 8.2%, p < 0.001); (ii) improve their ability to identify the healthier product (24.6% versus 3.3%, p < 0.001); (iii) decrease perceptions of product healthfulness; and (iv) correctly identify healthier products (14.0% versus 6.9%, p < 0.001), relative to the control condition. With WLs, there was also an increase in the percentage of people: (v) expressing an intention to purchase the relatively healthier option (16.1% versus 9.8%, p < 0.001); and (vi) choosing not to buy either product (13.0% versus 2.9%, p < 0.001), relative to the control condition. The participants in the WL condition had significantly more favorable opinions of the labels compared to those in the TLL group. Conclusions: WLs would be more effective, compared to the TLL, at improving consumer food choices. Full article

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17 pages, 11692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taurine Supplementation Alleviates Puromycin Aminonucleoside Damage by Modulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Mitochondrial-Related Apoptosis in Rat Kidney

by Alessandra Stacchiotti, Gaia Favero, Antonio Lavazza, Maria Monsalve, Luigi Fabrizio Rodella and Rita Rezzani

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060689 - 29 May 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6087

Abstract

Taurine (TAU) is a sulfur-containing beta amino acid that is not involved in protein composition and anabolism, conditionally essential in mammals provided through diet. Growing evidence supports a protective role of TAU supply in osmoregulation, calcium flux, and reduction of inflammation and oxidant [...] Read more.

Taurine (TAU) is a sulfur-containing beta amino acid that is not involved in protein composition and anabolism, conditionally essential in mammals provided through diet. Growing evidence supports a protective role of TAU supply in osmoregulation, calcium flux, and reduction of inflammation and oxidant damage in renal diseases like diabetes. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, due to abnormal proteostasis, is a contributor to nephrotic syndrome and related renal damage. Here, we investigated the effect of dietary TAU (1.5% in drinking water for 15 days) in an established rat model that mimics human minimal change nephrosis, consisting of a single puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) injection (intraperitoneally 15 mg/100 g body weight), with sacrifice after eight days. TAU limited proteinuria and podocytes foot processes effacement, and balanced slit diaphragm nephrin and glomerular claudin 1 expressions. In cortical proximal tubules, TAU improved lysosomal density, ER perimeter, restored proper ER-mitochondria tethering and mitochondrial cristae, and decreased inflammation. Remarkably, TAU downregulated glomerular ER stress markers (GRP78, GRP94), pro-apoptotic C/EBP homologous protein, activated caspase 3, tubular caspase1, and mitochondrial chaperone GRP75, but maintained anti-apoptotic HSP25. In conclusion, TAU, by targeting upstream ER stress separate from mitochondria dysfunctions at crucial renal sites, might be a promising dietary supplement in the treatment of the drug-resistant nephrotic syndrome. Full article

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12 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects on Fatty Acid Metabolism of a New Powdered Human Milk Fortifier Containing Medium-Chain Triacylglycerols and Docosahexaenoic Acid in Preterm Infants

by Claude Billeaud, Carole Boué-Vaysse, Leslie Couëdelo, Philippe Steenhout, Jonathan Jaeger, Cristina Cruz-Hernandez, Laurent Ameye, Jacques Rigo, Jean-Charles Picaud, Elie Saliba, Nicholas P. Hays and Frédéric Destaillats

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060690 - 29 May 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4791 | Correction

Abstract

Preterm infants require fortification of human milk (HM) with essential fatty acids (FA) to ensure adequate post-natal development. As part of a larger randomized controlled study, we investigated FA metabolism in a subset of 47 clinically stable preterm infants (birth weight ≤1500 g [...] Read more.

Preterm infants require fortification of human milk (HM) with essential fatty acids (FA) to ensure adequate post-natal development. As part of a larger randomized controlled study, we investigated FA metabolism in a subset of 47 clinically stable preterm infants (birth weight ≤1500 g or gestational age ≤32 weeks). Infants were randomized to receive HM supplemented with either a new HM fortifier (nHMF; n = 26) containing 12.5 g medium-chain FA (MCFA), 958 mg linoleic acid (LA), 417 mg α-linolenic acid (ALA), and 157 mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per 100 g of powder (in compliance with the latest guidelines) or a fat-free HMF (cHMF; n = 21). Plasma phospholipid (PL) and triacylglycerol (TAG), and red blood cell phosphatidylcholine (RBC-PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (RBC-PE) FA profiles were assessed before and after 21 days of feeding. In the nHMF group, significantly increased levels of n-9 monounsaturated fatty acids were observed, formed most likely by elongation and desaturation of dietary saturated fatty acids present in HM. ALA fortification increased ALA assimilation into plasma TAG. Similarly, DHA fortification enriched the DHA content in RBC-PE, which, in this compartment, was not associated with lower arachidonic acid levels as observed in plasma TAG and phospholipids. RBC-PE, a reliable indicator of FA metabolism and accretion, was the most sensitive compartment in this study. Full article

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15 pages, 2920 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Milk Fermented by Specific Lactobacillus Strains Regulates the Serum Levels of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-10 Cytokines in a LPS-Stimulated Murine Model

by Aline Reyes-Díaz, Verónica Mata-Haro, Jesús Hernández, Aarón F. González-Córdova, Adrián Hernández-Mendoza, Ricardo Reyes-Díaz, María J. Torres-Llanez, Lilia M. Beltrán-Barrientos and Belinda Vallejo-Cordoba

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060691 - 29 May 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 5613

Abstract

Studies report that metabolites, such as peptides, present in fermented milk with specific lactic acid bacteria, may regulate cytokine production and exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Hence, the cytokine regulatory effect of fermented milk by specific Lactobacillus strains was evaluated in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated [...] Read more.

Studies report that metabolites, such as peptides, present in fermented milk with specific lactic acid bacteria, may regulate cytokine production and exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Hence, the cytokine regulatory effect of fermented milk by specific Lactobacillus strains was evaluated in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine model. From twelve strains, three (J20, J23 and J28) were selected for their high proteolytic and acidifying capacities in milk and used for the in vivo study. Three treatments (fermented milk, FM; pasteurized fermented milk, PFM; and its <10 kDa fractions, PFM10) were administrated daily for four weeks. After treatments, animals were induced to a systemic inflammation with LPS, and blood samples were collected 6 h post-LPS injection for cytokine analyses. Results showed that FM or PFM significantly (p > 0.05) reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α) concentrations and significantly increased anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokine concentrations in comparison to the control; also, pro-inflammatory cytokines were reduced for animals treated with PFM10 (p < 0.05). RP-HPLC-MS/MS analysis showed that water-soluble extracts (<10 kDa) from PFM with J28 presented 15 new peptides, which may be the metabolites involved in the cytokine regulatory effect of fermented milk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dairy Products)

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11 pages, 436 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Selenium Intake and Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the ELSA-Brasil Study

by Gustavo R. G. Andrade, Bartira Gorgulho, Paulo A. Lotufo, Isabela M. Bensenor and Dirce M. Marchioni

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060693 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 11527

Abstract

Selenium (Se) participates in several enzymatic reactions necessary for regulating the homeostasis of thyroid hormones. We aimed to analyze the association between dietary Se intake and subclinical hypothyroidism. Baseline data from the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto—ELSA-Brasil) [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) participates in several enzymatic reactions necessary for regulating the homeostasis of thyroid hormones. We aimed to analyze the association between dietary Se intake and subclinical hypothyroidism. Baseline data from the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto—ELSA-Brasil) in Brazil were analyzed, with a final sample size of 14,283 employees of both sexes aged 35–74 years. Dietary data was collected using a previously validated food frequency questionnaire. Subclinical hypothyroidism was categorized as thyroid-stimulating hormone levels of >4.0 IU/mL and free prohormone thyroxine levels within normal limits, without administering drugs for thyroid disease. A multiple logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between the presence of subclinical hypothyroidism and tertiles of Se consumption. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in the study sample was 5.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.8–7.0%). Compared with the first tertile of Se intake, the second (odds ratio [OR], 0.79; 95% CI, 0.65–0.96%) and third (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58–0.90%) tertiles were inversely associated with subclinical hypothyroidism, however further research is needed to confirm the involvement of Se in subclinical hypothyroidism using more accurate methodologies of dietary assessment and nutritional status to evaluate this relationship. Full article

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13 pages, 798 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postprandial Glycaemic Responses of Dried Fruit-Containing Meals in Healthy Adults: Results from a Randomised Trial

by Ruixin Zhu, Zhihong Fan, Yang Dong, Manman Liu, Linlin Wang and Haikun Pan

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060694 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6133

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the glycaemic response (GR) patterns of four dried fruits (DF) and the mixed meals containing dried fruits, rice and almonds. Dried apples (DApp), dried jujubes (DJ), raisins (Ra) and dried apricots (DApr) were tested in [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to explore the glycaemic response (GR) patterns of four dried fruits (DF) and the mixed meals containing dried fruits, rice and almonds. Dried apples (DApp), dried jujubes (DJ), raisins (Ra) and dried apricots (DApr) were tested in eleven healthy subjects in random order. Test meals included the following 3 groups: (1) dried fruits containing 50 g available carbohydrates; (2) mixed meals consisting of DF and rice (DF + R), each contributing 25 g available carbohydrates; (3) Group (2) supplemented with 30 g almonds (DF + R + A). The postprandial GR and other characteristics in 240 min were investigated. The GI values of 4 DFs were 43 for DApp, 55 for DJ, 56 for both Ra and DApr. The DApp displayed the smallest amplitude of glycaemic excursion within 240 min (MAGE_0–240). Compared with rice, the DApp + R meal elicited a significantly reduced GR and a smaller MAGE_0–240 (GI 81 vs. 65). With the addition of almonds, the GIs and MAGE_0–240 decreased significantly in all DF + A + R combinations except DApp + R + A. The ratio of total fructose/glucose contents of test meals were negatively correlated to GIs. Dried fruits and nuts may have the potential to mitigate the postprandial GR when jointly introduced into glycaemic management diets. Full article

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17 pages, 1167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Frozen Storage on Phospholipid Content in Atlantic Cod Fillets and the Influence on Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice

by Kristin Røen Fauske, Annette Bernhard, Even Fjære, Lene Secher Myrmel, Livar Frøyland, Karsten Kristiansen, Bjørn Liaset and Lise Madsen

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060695 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4284

Abstract

A large fraction of the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in cod fillet is present in the form of phospholipids (PLs). Freezing initiates hydrolysis of the PLs present in the fillet. Here, we compared the effects of Western diets based on frozen [...] Read more.

A large fraction of the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in cod fillet is present in the form of phospholipids (PLs). Freezing initiates hydrolysis of the PLs present in the fillet. Here, we compared the effects of Western diets based on frozen cod, fresh cod or pork with a diet based on casein in male C57BL/6J mice fed for 12 weeks at thermoneutrality. Diets based on fresh cod contained more PL-bound n-3 PUFAs (3.12 mg/g diet) than diets based on frozen cod (1.9 mg/g diet). Mice fed diets containing pork and fresh cod, but not frozen cod, gained more body and fat mass than casein-fed mice. Additionally, the bioavailability of n-3 PUFAs present in the cod fillets was not influenced by storage conditions. In a second experiment, diets with pork as the protein source were supplemented with n-3 PUFAs in the form of PL or triacylglycerol (TAG) to match the levels of the diet containing fresh cod. Adding PL-bound, but not TAG-bound, n-3 PUFAs, to the pork-based diet increased body and fat mass gain. Thus, supplementation with PL-bound n-3 PUFAs did not protect against, but rather promoted, obesity development in mice fed a pork-based diet. Full article

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20 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differences over 12 Years in Food Portion Size and Association with Excess Body Weight in the City of São Paulo, Brazil

by Jaqueline Lopes Pereira, Paula Victória Félix, Josiemer Mattei and Regina Mara Fisberg

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060696 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4971

Abstract

Although changes in Brazilian diet have occurred over the last decades, there is no evidence about differences in food portion sizes (FPS) over time. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of FPS with excess body weight (EBW), and to monitor differences in [...] Read more.

Although changes in Brazilian diet have occurred over the last decades, there is no evidence about differences in food portion sizes (FPS) over time. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of FPS with excess body weight (EBW), and to monitor differences in the population from São Paulo, Brazil, from 2003 to 2015. Data came from three cross-sectional population-based studies with 5270 individuals aged ≥12 years in 2003, 2008, and 2015. Dietary data were obtained from 24-h recalls. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between FPS and EBW. Over the years, there was a diverse variation in FPS, with an increase in some groups (white meat, salted snacks, coffee/tea, eggs) and decrease in others (rice, red meat, sweets, pasta, sandwiches, cold cuts). The percentage of people reporting the intake of six food groupings (rice, white meat, sweets, fruits, commercial juices, toasts/biscuits) increased in the period. In this population, EBW was associated with larger FPS of 11 of the 30 food groupings investigated (cold cuts, fried snacks, fruit and commercial juices, pizza, red meat, rice, salted snacks, soft drinks, soups, sugar). These findings could support future interventions and policies for optimal food intake in Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Portion Size in Relation to Diet and Health)

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16 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of a New Sodium Bicarbonate Loading Regimen on Anaerobic Capacity and Wrestling Performance

by Krzysztof Durkalec-Michalski, Emilia Ewa Zawieja, Tomasz Podgórski, Bogna Ewa Zawieja, Patrycja Michałowska, Igor Łoniewski and Jan Jeszka

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 697; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060697 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 10348

Abstract

Gastrointestinal side effects are the main problem with sodium bicarbonate (SB) use in sports. Therefore, our study assessed the effect of a new SB loading regimen on anaerobic capacity and wrestling performance. Fifty-eight wrestlers were randomized to either a progressive-dose regimen of up [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal side effects are the main problem with sodium bicarbonate (SB) use in sports. Therefore, our study assessed the effect of a new SB loading regimen on anaerobic capacity and wrestling performance. Fifty-eight wrestlers were randomized to either a progressive-dose regimen of up to 100 mg∙kg⁻¹ of SB or a placebo for 10 days. Before and after treatment, athletes completed an exercise protocol that comprised, in sequence, the first Wingate, dummy throw, and second Wingate tests. Blood samples were taken pre- and post-exercise. No gastrointestinal side effects were reported during the study. After SB treatment, there were no significant improvements in the outcomes of the Wingate and dummy throw tests. The only index that significantly improved with SB, compared to the placebo (p = 0.0142), was the time-to-peak power in the second Wingate test, which decreased from 3.44 ± 1.98 to 2.35 ± 1.17 s. There were also no differences in blood lactate or glucose concentrations. In conclusion, although the new loading regimen eliminated gastrointestinal symptoms, the doses could have been too small to elicit additional improvements in anaerobic power and wrestling performance. However, shortening the time-to-peak power during fatigue may be particularly valuable and is one of the variables contributing to the final success of a combat sports athlete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sport and Performance Nutrition)

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14 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impaired Gastric Myoelectrical Reactivity in Children and Adolescents with Obesity Compared to Normal-Weight Controls

by Katja Weimer, Helene Sauer, Bjoern Horing, Francesco Valitutti, Nazar Mazurak, Stephan Zipfel, Andreas Stengel, Paul Enck and Isabelle Mack

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060699 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4682

Abstract

Obesity often has its onset in childhood and can be accompanied by various comorbidities such as functional gastrointestinal disorders and altered gastric myoelectrical activity (GMA). This study investigates whether obesity in childhood and adolescence is already associated with altered GMA, and whether an [...] Read more.

Obesity often has its onset in childhood and can be accompanied by various comorbidities such as functional gastrointestinal disorders and altered gastric myoelectrical activity (GMA). This study investigates whether obesity in childhood and adolescence is already associated with altered GMA, and whether an inpatient weight loss program affects GMA. Sixty children with obesity (OBE) and 27 normal-weight children (NW) (12.9 ± 1.7 years; 51% female) were compared for their GMA at rest, after a stress test, and after a drink-to-full water load test. A continuous electrogastrogram (EGG) was recorded and analyzed with respect to gastric slow waves and tachygastric activity. OBE were examined upon admission (T1) and before discharge (T2) following an inpatient weight loss program; NW served as control group. Compared to NW, children with obesity showed flattened GMA as indicated by lower tachygastric reactivity after stress and water load test at T1. Data of OBE did not differ between T1 and T2. EGG parameters were associated neither with sex, age, and BMI nor with subjective stress and food intake. Children with obesity show impaired gastric myoelectrical reactivity in response to a stress and water load test compared to normal-weight controls, which does not change during an inpatient weight loss program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Pediatric Gastroenterology: Selected Papers from SIGENP)

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12 pages, 1726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hunger, Food Cravings, and Diet Satisfaction are Related to Changes in Body Weight During a 6-Month Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention: The Beef WISE Study

by R. Drew Sayer, John C. Peters, Zhaoxing Pan, Holly R. Wyatt and James O. Hill

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060700 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8274

Abstract

Previously published findings from the Beef WISE Study (Beef’s Role in Weight Improvement, Satisfaction, and Energy) indicated equivalent weight loss between two energy-restricted higher protein (HP) diets: A HP diet with ≥4 weekly servings of lean beef (B; n = 60) and a [...] Read more.

Previously published findings from the Beef WISE Study (Beef’s Role in Weight Improvement, Satisfaction, and Energy) indicated equivalent weight loss between two energy-restricted higher protein (HP) diets: A HP diet with ≥4 weekly servings of lean beef (B; n = 60) and a HP diet restricted in all red meats (NB; n = 60). Long-term adherence to dietary prescriptions is critical for weight management but may be adversely affected by changes in appetite, food cravings, and diet satisfaction that often accompany weight loss. A secondary a priori aim of the Beef WISE Study was to compare subjective ratings of appetite (hunger and fullness), food cravings, and diet satisfaction (compliance, satisfaction, and deprivation) between the diets and determine whether these factors influenced weight loss. Subjective appetite, food cravings, and diet satisfaction ratings were collected throughout the intervention, and body weight was measured at the baseline, after the weight loss intervention (week 16), and after an eight-week follow-up period (week 24). Hunger and cravings were reduced during weight loss compared to the baseline, while fullness was not different from the baseline. The reduction in cravings was greater for B vs. NB at week 16 only. Higher deprivation ratings during weight loss were reported in NB vs. B at weeks 16 and 24, but participants in both groups reported high levels of compliance and diet satisfaction with no difference between groups. Independent of group assignment, higher baseline hunger and cravings were associated with less weight loss, and greater diet compliance, diet satisfaction, and lower feelings of deprivation were associated with greater weight loss. Strategies to promote reduced feelings of hunger, cravings, and deprivation may increase adherence to dietary prescriptions and improve behavioral weight loss outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appetite, Metabolism and Obesity)

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12 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations of Dairy Intake with Arterial Stiffness in Brazilian Adults: The Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

by Amanda Gomes Ribeiro, José Geraldo Mill, Nágela Valadão Cade, Gustavo Velasquez-Melendez, Sheila Maria Alvim Matos and Maria Del Carmen Bisi Molina

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 701; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060701 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4925

Abstract

Recent studies have suggested the possible effect of dairy product intake on cardiovascular risk markers, including arterial stiffness. Our aim was to investigate whether dairy food intake is associated with arterial stiffness, which we assessed by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and pulse [...] Read more.

Recent studies have suggested the possible effect of dairy product intake on cardiovascular risk markers, including arterial stiffness. Our aim was to investigate whether dairy food intake is associated with arterial stiffness, which we assessed by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and pulse pressure (PP) in a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data (2008–2010; n = 12,892) of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Dairy consumption was evaluated with a validated food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) by computing servings per day for total and subgroups of dairy products. Dairy consumption was described in four categories (≤1 serving/day to >4 servings/day). Covariance analysis (ANCOVA) was used to compare cfPWV across increasing intake of dairy food, adjusting for confounding factors, including non-dairy food groups. The intake of total dairy was inversely associated with cfPWV and PP (−0.13 m/s and −1.3 mmHg, from the lowest and to the highest category of dairy intake). Low-fat dairy, fermented dairy and cheese showed an inverse relationship with cfPWV and PP. These findings suggest a beneficial effect of dairy consumption to reduce arterial stiffness. However, further evidence from longitudinal studies or long-term intervention is needed to support reduction of cfPWV and PP mediating the beneficial effects of dairy products on cardiovascular health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dairy Products)

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17 pages, 1342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring the Healthiness of the Packaged Food Supply in Australia

by Michelle Crino, Gary Sacks, Elizabeth Dunford, Kathy Trieu, Jacqui Webster, Stefanie Vandevijvere, Boyd Swinburn, Jason Y. Wu and Bruce Neal

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 702; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060702 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 10374

Abstract

The increasing availability of packaged foods plays a key role in nutritional transition. This study examined the healthiness of the Australian packaged food supply using a range of different metrics; 40,664 packaged products from The George Institute’s FoodSwitch database were included. Median and [...] Read more.

The increasing availability of packaged foods plays a key role in nutritional transition. This study examined the healthiness of the Australian packaged food supply using a range of different metrics; 40,664 packaged products from The George Institute’s FoodSwitch database were included. Median and interquartile range (IQR) were determined for each measure of nutrient composition; mean and standard deviation (SD) for the measure based upon Health Star Rating (HSR); and proportions (%) for the measures based upon products with a higher HSR, classification of foods as either core or discretionary, extent of processing and proportions of foods that met reformulation targets for sodium, saturated fat and total sugars. Overall median (IQR) values were 1093 (1256) kJ/100 g for energy, 1.7 (6.3) g/100 g for saturated fat, 5.3 (21.4) g/100 g for total sugars, 163 (423) g/100 g for sodium and 50 (100) g or mL for serving size. Overall mean (SD) HSR was 2.8 (1.4), proportion with HSR < 3.5 was 61.8%, proportion of foods defined as discretionary was 53.0% and proportion of foods defined as highly processed was 60.5%. There were sodium targets set for 21,382/40,664 (53%) foods and achieved for 14,126/40,664 (35%). Corresponding figures for saturated fat were 328/40,664 (0.8%) and 130/40,664 (0.3%). Nutrient profiling, dietary guidelines and the extent of food processing provided comparable assessments of the nutritional quality of Australia’s packaged food supply. Individual measures of nutrient composition did not, but may be of value for identifying specific foods of concern. Full article

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32 pages, 1083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Methods for Estimating Dietary Food and Nutrient Intakes and Intake Densities from Household Consumption and Expenditure Data in Mongolia

by Sabri Bromage, Bernard Rosner, Janet W. Rich-Edwards, Davaasambuu Ganmaa, Soninkhishig Tsolmon, Zuunnast Tserendejid, Tseye-Oidov Odbayar, Margaret Traeger and Wafaie W. Fawzi

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060703 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7441

Abstract

Household consumption and expenditure surveys are frequently conducted around the world and they usually include data on household food consumption, but their applicability to nutrition research is limited by their collection at the household level. Using data from Mongolia, this study evaluated four [...] Read more.

Household consumption and expenditure surveys are frequently conducted around the world and they usually include data on household food consumption, but their applicability to nutrition research is limited by their collection at the household level. Using data from Mongolia, this study evaluated four approaches for estimating diet from household surveys: direct inference from per-capita household consumption; disaggregation of household consumption using a statistical method and the “adult male equivalent” method, and direct prediction of dietary intake. Per-capita household consumption overestimated dietary energy in single- and multi-person households by factors of 2.63 and 1.89, respectively. Performance of disaggregation methods was variable across two household surveys analyzed, while the statistical method exhibited less bias in estimating intake densities (per 100 kcal) of most dietary components in both of the surveys. Increasingly complex prediction models explained 54% to 72% of in-sample variation in dietary energy, with consistent benefits incurred by inclusion of basic dietary measurements. In conclusion, in Mongolia and elsewhere, differences in how household and dietary measurements are recorded make their comparison challenging. Validity of disaggregation methods depends on household survey characteristics and the dietary components that are considered. Relatively precise prediction models of dietary intake can be achieved by integrating basic dietary assessment into household surveys. Full article

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12 pages, 1207 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Roles of Sedentary Behaviors and Unhealthy Foods in Increasing the Obesity Risk in Adult Men and Women: A Cross-Sectional National Study

by Esti Nurwanti, Mohy Uddin, Jung-Su Chang, Hamam Hadi, Shabbir Syed-Abdul, Emily Chia-Yu Su, Aldilas Achmad Nursetyo, Jakir Hossain Bhuiyan Masud and Chyi-Huey Bai

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060704 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 9327

Abstract

Sedentary behaviors and dietary intake are independently associated with obesity risk. In the literature, only a few studies have investigated gender differences for such associations. The present study aims to assess the association of sedentary behaviors and unhealthy foods intake with obesity in [...] Read more.

Sedentary behaviors and dietary intake are independently associated with obesity risk. In the literature, only a few studies have investigated gender differences for such associations. The present study aims to assess the association of sedentary behaviors and unhealthy foods intake with obesity in men and women in a comparative manner. The analysis presented in this study was based on the data from a population-based, cross-sectional, nationally representative survey (Indonesian Basic Health Research 2013/RISKESDAS 2013). In total, 222,650 men and 248,590 women aged 19–55 years were enrolled. A validated questionnaire, physical activity card, and food card were used for the assessments. The results showed that the prevalence of obesity (body mass index of ≥27.5 kg/m²) was higher in women (18.71%) than in men (8.67%). The mean body mass index in women tended to be higher than in men. After adjusting for age and education, the gender effect on obesity persisted in women and was more significant than in men. There was also a positive and significant effect on obesity of sedentary behaviors and unhealthy foods intake. Moreover, fatty and fried foods displayed a positive multiplicative interaction, increasing obesity risk in women more than in men and indicating a possible dietary risk in in women in relation to obesity. The study suggests that the implementation of educational programs on nutrition and physical activity is particularly important for promoting a healthy body weight among Indonesian women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Balancing Physical Activity and Nutrition for Human Health)

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17 pages, 417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Alcohol and Coffee Intake on the Risk of Advanced Liver Fibrosis: A Longitudinal Analysis in HIV-HCV Coinfected Patients (ANRS CO-13 HEPAVIH Cohort)

by Issifou Yaya, Fabienne Marcellin, Marie Costa, Philippe Morlat, Camelia Protopopescu, Gilles Pialoux, Melina Erica Santos, Linda Wittkop, Laure Esterle, Anne Gervais, Philippe Sogni, Dominique Salmon-Ceron, Maria Patrizia Carrieri and The ANRS CO13-HEPAVIH Cohort Study Group

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 705; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060705 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6104

Abstract

Background: Coffee intake has been shown to modulate both the effect of ethanol on serum GGT activities in some alcohol consumers and the risk of alcoholic cirrhosis in some patients with chronic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the impact of coffee intake [...] Read more.

Background: Coffee intake has been shown to modulate both the effect of ethanol on serum GGT activities in some alcohol consumers and the risk of alcoholic cirrhosis in some patients with chronic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the impact of coffee intake and alcohol consumption on advanced liver fibrosis (ALF) in HIV-HCV co-infected patients. Methods: ANRS CO13-HEPAVIH is a French, nationwide, multicenter cohort of HIV-HCV-co-infected patients. Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical data including alcohol and coffee consumption were prospectively collected using annual self-administered questionnaires during five years of follow-up. Mixed logistic regression models were performed, relating coffee intake and alcohol consumption to ALF. Results: 1019 patients were included. At the last available visit, 5.8% reported high-risk alcohol consumption, 27.4% reported high coffee intake and 14.5% had ALF. Compared with patients with low coffee intake and high-risk alcohol consumption, patients with low coffee intake and low-risk alcohol consumption had a lower risk of ALF (aOR (95% CI) 0.24 (0.12–0.50)). In addition, patients with high coffee intake had a lower risk of ALF than the reference group (0.14 (0.03–0.64) in high-risk alcohol drinkers and 0.11 (0.05–0.25) in low-risk alcohol drinkers). Conclusions: High coffee intake was associated with a low risk of liver fibrosis even in HIV-HCV co-infected patients with high-risk alcohol consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Caffeine and Coffee on Human Health)

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18 pages, 1716 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mastication of Nuts under Realistic Eating Conditions: Implications for Energy Balance

by Breanna M. McArthur, Robert V. Considine and Richard D. Mattes

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060710 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 9096

Abstract

The low digestibility and high satiety effects of nuts have been partly attributed to mastication. This work examines chewing forces and the bolus particle size of nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios) varying in physical properties under different conditions (with and without water, juice, sweetened [...] Read more.

The low digestibility and high satiety effects of nuts have been partly attributed to mastication. This work examines chewing forces and the bolus particle size of nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios) varying in physical properties under different conditions (with and without water, juice, sweetened yogurt and plain yogurt) along with satiety sensations and gut hormone concentrations following walnut consumption (whole or butter). In a randomized, cross-over design with 50 adults (25 males, 25 females; Body Mass Index (BMI) 24.7 ± 3.4 kg/m²; age: 18–52 years old (y/o), the chewing forces and particle size distribution of chewed nuts were measured under different chewing conditions. Appetite sensations were measured at regular intervals for 3 h after nut intake, and plasma samples were collected for the measurement of glucose, insulin and Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The three nuts displayed different particle sizes at swallowing though no differences in chewing forces were observed. Walnuts with yogurt yielded larger particle sizes than the other treatments. Particle size was not correlated with either food palatability or flavor. Fullness sensations were higher after whole nut than nut butter consumption though there were no significant changes in glucose, insulin, or GLP-1 concentrations under any condition. Changing the conditions at swallowing might influence the release of energy from nuts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Effects of Nut Consumption)

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14 pages, 932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

WAVE~Ripples for Change Obesity Two-Year Intervention in High School Soccer Players: Process Evaluation, Best Practices, and Youth Engagement

by Yu Meng, Siew Sun Wong, Melinda M. Manore and Mēgan Patton-López

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060711 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5163

Abstract

This paper reports the process data on program fidelity, best practices for intervention implementation, youth and coach engagement, and youth application of knowledge and skills for the two-year WAVE~Ripples for Change (WAVE) obesity prevention intervention program focused on healthy eating, physical activity, and [...] Read more.

This paper reports the process data on program fidelity, best practices for intervention implementation, youth and coach engagement, and youth application of knowledge and skills for the two-year WAVE~Ripples for Change (WAVE) obesity prevention intervention program focused on healthy eating, physical activity, and life skills with high school (HS) soccer players aged 14–19 years. Internal (staff: n = 7; volunteers: n = 27) and external (youth: n = 100; coaches: n = 9) stakeholders were interviewed/ surveyed. Staff rated program fidelity as high (94%), as did volunteers (85%). Best practices included coach encouragement for athlete participation, use of on-line consent for enrollment, building relationships with HS staff to complete assessments, sending text reminders, and providing incentives. Study results showed an enrollment rate of 72%, completion of baseline assessments of 89–98%, attendance of sports nutrition lessons in Year 1 and Year 2 of 90% and 39%, respectively, and team-building workshop (TBW) attendance of 25–31%. Activities exceeding youth expectations (>90%) included, (1) activities with their soccer team; (2) the TBW-cooking; and (3) sports nutrition lessons. The obesity prevention skills most applied by youth were obtained from the TBW-gardening and harvesting (49%), the TBW-cooking (43%), and sports nutrition lessons (44%). Coaches also rated the sports nutrition lessons highly and reported increased awareness for hydration/fueling during sport by the athletes. Using sport teams/clubs to engage youth in obesity prevention is a feasible model for future study. Full article

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15 pages, 3307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spirulina maxima Extract Reduces Obesity through Suppression of Adipogenesis and Activation of Browning in 3T3-L1 Cells and High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice

by Young-Jin Seo, Kui-Jin Kim, Jia Choi, Eun-Jeong Koh and Boo-Yong Lee

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060712 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 11555

Abstract

Obesity predisposes animals towards the metabolic syndrome and diseases such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. Spirulina maxima is a microalga with anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective activities, but the anti-obesity effect of Spirulina maxima 70% ethanol extract (SM70EE) has not yet [...] Read more.

Obesity predisposes animals towards the metabolic syndrome and diseases such as type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. Spirulina maxima is a microalga with anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective activities, but the anti-obesity effect of Spirulina maxima 70% ethanol extract (SM70EE) has not yet been fully established. We investigated the effect of SM70EE on adipogenesis, lipogenesis, and browning using in vitro and in vivo obesity models. SM70EE treatment reduced lipid droplet accumulation by the oil red O staining method and downregulated the adipogenic proteins C/EBPα, PPARγ, and aP2, and the lipogenic proteins SREBP1, ACC, FAS, LPAATβ, Lipin1, and DGAT1 by western blot analysis. In addition, the index components of SM70EE, chlorophyll a, and C-phycocyanin, reduced adipogenesis and lipogenesis protein levels in 3T3-L1 and C3H10T1/2 cells. High-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice administered with SM70EE demonstrated smaller adipose depots and lower blood lipid concentrations than control HFD-fed mice. The lower body mass gain in treated SM70EE-administrated mice was associated with lower protein expression of adipogenesis factors and higher expression of AMPKα-induced adipose browning proteins PRDM16, PGC1α, and UCP1. SM70EE administration ameliorates obesity, likely by reducing adipogenesis and activating the thermogenic program, in 3T3-L1 cells and HFD-induced obese mice. Full article

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8 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ferulic Acid Supplementation Improves Lipid Profiles, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Status in Hyperlipidemic Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

by Akkarach Bumrungpert, Supathra Lilitchan, Siriporn Tuntipopipat, Nednapis Tirawanchai and Surat Komindr

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060713 - 2 Jun 2018

Cited by 200 | Viewed by 11470

Abstract

Ferulic acid is the most abundant phenolic compound found in vegetables and cereal grains. In vitro and animal studies have shown ferulic acid has anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of ferulic acid supplementation [...] Read more.

Ferulic acid is the most abundant phenolic compound found in vegetables and cereal grains. In vitro and animal studies have shown ferulic acid has anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of ferulic acid supplementation on lipid profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in hyperlipidemia. The study design is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Subjects with hyperlipidemia were randomly divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 24) was given ferulic acid (1000 mg daily) and the control group (n = 24) was provided with a placebo for six weeks. Lipid profiles, biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation were assessed before and after the intervention. Ferulic acid supplementation demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in total cholesterol (8.1%; p = 0.001), LDL-C (9.3%; p < 0.001), triglyceride (12.1%; p = 0.049), and increased HDL-C (4.3%; p = 0.045) compared with the placebo. Ferulic acid also significantly decreased the oxidative stress biomarker, MDA (24.5%; p < 0.001). Moreover, oxidized LDL-C was significantly decreased in the ferulic acid group (7.1%; p = 0.002) compared with the placebo group. In addition, ferulic acid supplementation demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the inflammatory markers hs-CRP (32.66%; p < 0.001) and TNF-α (13.06%; p < 0.001). These data indicate ferulic acid supplementation can improve lipid profiles and oxidative stress, oxidized LDL-C, and inflammation in hyperlipidemic subjects. Therefore, ferulic acid has the potential to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavonoid Intake and Human Health)

11 pages, 2226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supplementation of Blackcurrant Anthocyanins Increased Cyclic Glycine-Proline in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Parkinson Patients: Potential Treatment to Improve Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Function

by Dawei Fan, Yassar Alamri, Karen Liu, Michael MacAskill, Paul Harris, Margaret Brimble, John Dalrymple-Alford, Tim Prickett, Oliver Menzies, Andrew Laurenson, Tim Anderson and Jian Guan

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060714 - 2 Jun 2018

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9681

Abstract

Background: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) function is impaired in Parkinson disease. Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP), a metabolite of IGF-1, is neuroprotective through improving IGF-1 function. Parkinson disease patients score lower on Hospital-associated Anxiety and Depression Scale after supplementing blackcurrant anthocyanins (BCA), which may be [...] Read more.

Background: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) function is impaired in Parkinson disease. Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP), a metabolite of IGF-1, is neuroprotective through improving IGF-1 function. Parkinson disease patients score lower on Hospital-associated Anxiety and Depression Scale after supplementing blackcurrant anthocyanins (BCA), which may be associated with IGF-1 function. We evaluated the changes of cGP and IGF-1 before and after the supplementation. Methods: Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were collected from 11 male patients before and after 28 day supplementation of BCA. The concentrations of IGF-1, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-3, and cGP were measured using ELISA and HPLC-MS assays. The presence of cGP in the BCA was evaluated. Results: cGP presented in the BCA. BCA supplementation increased the concentration of cGP (p < 0.01), but not IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in the CSF. CSF concentration of cGP was correlated with plasma concentration of cGP (R = 0.68, p = 0.01) and cGP/IGF-1 molar ratio (R = 0.66, p = 0.01). The CSF/plasma ratio was high in cGP and low in IGF-1 and IGFBP-3. Conclusion: cGP is a natural nutrient to the BCA. The increased CSF cGP in Parkinson disease patients may result from the central uptake of plasma cGP. Given neurotrophic function, oral availability, and effective central uptake of cGP, the BCA has the potential to be developed to treat neurological conditions with IGF-1 deficiency. Full article

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9 pages, 571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modulation of Free Amino Acid Profile in Healthy Humans Administered with Mastiha Terpenes. An Open-Label Trial

by Efstathia Papada, Ljilja Torović, Charalampia Amerikanou, Nikolaos Kalogeropoulos, Ilias Smyrnioudis and Andriana C. Kaliora

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060715 - 3 Jun 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4139

Abstract

We aimed to explore whether plasma-free amino acids are modified in response to terpenes administration in healthy humans. In this open-label, single-arm acute trial, seventeen healthy male volunteers were administered with a naturally occurring product of known terpenes—namely mastiha—after overnight fasting. Blood samples [...] Read more.

We aimed to explore whether plasma-free amino acids are modified in response to terpenes administration in healthy humans. In this open-label, single-arm acute trial, seventeen healthy male volunteers were administered with a naturally occurring product of known terpenes—namely mastiha—after overnight fasting. Blood samples were collected at different time points before and after ingestion. We aimed at identifying and quantifying 60 free amino acids in plasma applying Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. A total of 24 free amino acids were quantified. Branched-chain valine significantly decreased 4 h post-ingestion, whereas proline decreased at 6 h and ornithine at 2 h, compared to 0 h. These novel findings demonstrate that free amino acids levels are modulated in response to terpenes intake in healthy subjects. Full article

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16 pages, 1289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behavioral Correlates of Empirically-Derived Dietary Patterns among University Students

by Megan P. Mueller, Stacy A. Blondin, Ariella R. Korn, Peter J. Bakun, Katherine L. Tucker and Christina D. Economos

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060716 - 3 Jun 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6834

Abstract

Given the importance of young adulthood in establishing lifelong dietary habits, it is imperative to better understand potential underlying drivers of dietary behavior in the university-age population. Dietary patterns have been associated with disease risk, but behavioral predictors of dietary pattern adherence are [...] Read more.

Given the importance of young adulthood in establishing lifelong dietary habits, it is imperative to better understand potential underlying drivers of dietary behavior in the university-age population. Dietary patterns have been associated with disease risk, but behavioral predictors of dietary pattern adherence are poorly understood, especially among emerging adults. This study aims to evaluate health-related behaviors associated with dietary pattern scores among freshmen participating in the Tufts Longitudinal Health Study (TLHS; n = 630). We previously derived dietary patterns using principal components analysis and orthogonal rotation from dietary intake data. Health-related behavior data were collected via survey. All data were collected during the Spring semesters of 1998–2007. Unadjusted linear models were used to determine associations between dietary pattern scores and health-related behaviors. Significant correlates were retained in multivariable regression models, which were adjusted for demographic characteristics. We found that never eating meals away from home was associated with higher adherence to the Prudent and lower adherence to the Western and Alcohol patterns. Intention to lose weight was negatively associated with the Western pattern, while intention to gain weight was positively associated with all dietary patterns. These findings suggest that intervention efforts aimed at improving eating out behaviors and engaging in healthy weight management strategies may promote healthier dietary patterns among university students. Full article

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13 pages, 1420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combining Short-Term Interval Training with Caloric Restriction Improves ß-Cell Function in Obese Adults

by Monique E. Francois, Nicole M. Gilbertson, Natalie Z. M. Eichner, Emily M. Heiston, Chiara Fabris, Marc Breton, J. Hunter Mehaffey, Taryn Hassinger, Peter T. Hallowell and Steven K. Malin

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060717 - 3 Jun 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5106

Abstract

Although low-calorie diets (LCD) improve glucose regulation, it is unclear if interval exercise (INT) is additive. We examined the impact of an LCD versus LCD + INT training on ß-cell function in relation to glucose tolerance in obese adults. Twenty-six adults (Age: 46 [...] Read more.

Although low-calorie diets (LCD) improve glucose regulation, it is unclear if interval exercise (INT) is additive. We examined the impact of an LCD versus LCD + INT training on ß-cell function in relation to glucose tolerance in obese adults. Twenty-six adults (Age: 46 ± 12 year; BMI 38 ± 6 kg/m²) were randomized to 2-week of LCD (~1200 kcal/day) or energy-matched LCD + INT (60 min/day alternating 3 min at 90 and 50% HRpeak). A 2 h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed. Insulin secretion rates (ISR) were determined by deconvolution modeling to assess glucose-stimulated insulin secretion ([GSIS: ISR/glucose total area under the curve (tAUC)]) and ß-cell function (Disposition Index [DI: GSIS/IR]) relative to skeletal muscle (Matsuda Index), hepatic (HOMA-IR) and adipose (Adipose-IR_fasting) insulin resistance (IR). LCD + INT, but not LCD alone, reduced glucose and total-phase ISR tAUC (Interactions: p = 0.04 and p = 0.05, respectively). Both interventions improved skeletal muscle IR by 16% (p = 0.04) and skeletal muscle and hepatic DI (Time: p < 0.05). Improved skeletal muscle DI was associated with lower glucose tAUC (r = −0.57, p < 0.01). Thus, LCD + INT improved glucose tolerance more than LCD in obese adults, and these findings relate to ß-cell function. These data support LCD + INT for preserving pancreatic function for type 2 diabetes prevention. Full article

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15 pages, 2565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Induction of Apoptosis and Cytotoxicity by Isothiocyanate Sulforaphene in Human Hepatocarcinoma HepG2 Cells

by Saie Brindha Kntayya, Muhammad Din Ibrahim, Nooraini Mohd Ain, Renato Iori, Costas Ioannides and Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060718 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 6334

Abstract

Glucoraphenin, a glucosinolate present in large quantities in radish is hydrolysed by myrosinase to form the isothiocyanate sulforaphene, which is believed to be responsible for its chemopreventive activity; however, the underlying mechanisms of action have not been investigated, particularly in human cell lines. [...] Read more.

Glucoraphenin, a glucosinolate present in large quantities in radish is hydrolysed by myrosinase to form the isothiocyanate sulforaphene, which is believed to be responsible for its chemopreventive activity; however, the underlying mechanisms of action have not been investigated, particularly in human cell lines. The aim of the study is to assess the cytotoxicity of sulforaphene in HepG2 cells and evaluate its potential to enhance apoptosis. The cytotoxicity of sulforaphene in HepG2 cells was carried out ensuing an initial screening with two other cell lines, MFC-7 and HT-29, where sulforaphene displayed highest toxicity in HepG2 cells following incubation at 24, 48 and 72 h. In contrast, the intact glucosinolate showed no cytotoxicity. Morphological studies indicated that sulforaphene stimulated apoptosis as exemplified by cell shrinkage, blebbing, chromatin condensation, and nuclear fragmentation. The Annexin V assay revealed significant increases in apoptosis and the same treatment increased the activity of caspases -3/7 and -9, whereas a decline in caspase-8 was observed. Impairment of cell proliferation was indicated by cell cycle arrest at the Sub G₀/G₁ phase as compared to the other phases. It may be concluded that sulforaphene, but not its parent glucosinolate, glucoraphenin, causes cytotoxicity and stimulates apoptosis in HepG2 cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Food, Nutrition and Human Health)

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12 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Egg Consumption in Infants is Associated with Longer Recumbent Length and Greater Intake of Several Nutrients Essential in Growth and Development

by Yanni Papanikolaou and Victor L. Fulgoni III

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060719 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7557

Abstract

Nutrient intake during infancy is critical for healthy growth and development. The present study examined egg consumption and associations with nutrient intakes, markers of growth and weight-related measures in infants 6–24 months of age (N = 561) compared to infant egg non-consumers [...] Read more.

Nutrient intake during infancy is critical for healthy growth and development. The present study examined egg consumption and associations with nutrient intakes, markers of growth and weight-related measures in infants 6–24 months of age (N = 561) compared to infant egg non-consumers (N = 2129). Egg consumers were defined as those infants consuming eggs (i.e., with the exclusion of mixed dishes) during a 24-h dietary recall. Associations with nutrient intakes and markers of growth variables were evaluated using data from What We Eat in America, the dietary component of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001–2012. Mean energy and nutrient intakes were adjusted for the sample design using appropriate survey parameters and sample weights. Egg consumption was associated with greater energy intake compared to infants not consuming eggs (1265 ± 27 vs. 1190 ± 14 kcal/day; p = 0.01). Infant consumers of eggs also had greater protein (48 ± 0.7 vs. 41 ± 0.4 g/day), total choline (281 ± 6 vs. 163 ± 2 mg/day), lutein + zeaxanthin (788 ± 64 vs. 533 ± 23 mcg/day), α-linolenic acid (0.87 ± 0.02 vs. 0.82 ± 0.01 g/day), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (0.04 ± 0.02 vs. 0.02 ± 0.001 g/day), vitamin B12 (4.2 ± 0.1 vs. 3.7 ± 0.1 mcg/day), phosphorus (977 ± 15 vs. 903 ± 8 mg/day), and selenium (67 ± 1 vs. 52 ± 0.6 mcg/day; all p-values < 0.05). Egg consumers also had greater consumption of total fat (50 ± 0.7 vs. 45 ± 0.3 g/day), monounsaturated fat (17 ± 0.3 vs. 15 ± 0.1 g/day), saturated fat (20 ± 0.4 vs. 18 ± 0.2 g/day), and sodium (1663 ± 36 vs. 1418 ± 19 mg/day), with lower added sugar (4.7 ± 0.3 vs. 6.1 ± 0.2 tsp eq/day), and total sugar (87 ± 2 vs. 99 ± 1 g/day; all p-values < 0.05) vs. non-consumers of eggs. Egg consumption was also associated with lower intake of dietary folate, iron, magnesium and niacin relative to non-consumers of eggs. Egg consumption in infants was associated with longer recumbent length when compared to non-consumers of eggs (79.2 ± 0.2 vs. 78.7 ± 0.1 cm; p = 0.03). No associations were observed when comparing body weight. When compared to non-consumers of eggs and regardless of food security, poverty-income-ratio and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition status, egg consumption was associated with greater lutein + zeaxanthin intake per day. The current analyzes show that consumption of eggs in infant 6–24 months of age is linked with several nutrient intakes, including higher protein, lutein + zeaxanthin, choline, B12, selenium and phosphorus; and lower added and total sugars relative to non-consumers. Egg consumers also have less of several nutrients to be encouraged and a higher intake of nutrients to limit, thus presenting opportunities for educational strategies to potentially increase consumption of nutrient-dense foods in combination with eggs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Egg Intake and Human Health)

17 pages, 2232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge and Attitudes Are Related to Selected Salt-Specific Behaviours among Australian Parents

by Durreajam Khokhar, Caryl Anne Nowson, Claire Margerison, Bruce Bolam and Carley Ann Grimes

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060720 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6000

Abstract

Salt intake in adults and children exceeds recommended levels. Salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours (KABs) may influence the amount of salt consumed. The aims of this study were to assess salt-related KABs among parents, and investigate whether salt-related knowledge and attitudes are associated [...] Read more.

Salt intake in adults and children exceeds recommended levels. Salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours (KABs) may influence the amount of salt consumed. The aims of this study were to assess salt-related KABs among parents, and investigate whether salt-related knowledge and attitudes are associated with salt-specific behaviours. Parents with children <18 years were recruited from four shopping centers across Victoria, Australia; Facebook; and an online consumer research panel; they then completed an online questionnaire assessing salt-related KABs and salt use in children. Eight hundred and thirty-seven parents (mean age 41.0 (10.0) (SD) years) provided valid responses. Most (77%) parents were aware that eating too much salt damages children’s health and that reducing the amount of salt in their children’s diet was important (70%), and 46% reported adding salt to food prepared for their children. Parents who were aware that eating too much salt damages children’s health were less likely to report that their child added salt at the table (OR = 0.51, p < 0.001), and that they added salt to food prepared for the child (OR = 0.46, p < 0.001). Educational messages that highlight the adverse health effects of salt during childhood are likely to be useful in reducing discretionary salt use in the home environment. Full article

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14 pages, 2017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin D₃ Status and the Association with Human Cathelicidin Expression in Patients with Different Clinical Forms of Active Tuberculosis

by Senait Ashenafi, Jolanta Mazurek, Anders Rehn, Beede Lemma, Getachew Aderaye, Amsalu Bekele, Getachew Assefa, Menberework Chanyalew, Abraham Aseffa, Jan Andersson, Peter Bergman and Susanna Brighenti

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060721 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5021

Abstract

Low vitamin D (vitD₃) is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world known to be associated with numerous medical conditions including infections such as tuberculosis (TB). In this study, vitD₃ status and its association with the antimicrobial [...] Read more.

Low vitamin D (vitD₃) is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world known to be associated with numerous medical conditions including infections such as tuberculosis (TB). In this study, vitD₃ status and its association with the antimicrobial peptide, human cathelicidin (LL-37), was investigated in Ethiopian patients with different clinical forms of TB. Patients with active TB (n = 77) and non-TB controls (n = 78) were enrolled in Ethiopia, while another group of non-TB controls (n = 62) was from Sweden. Active TB included pulmonary TB (n = 32), pleural TB (n = 20), and lymph node TB (n = 25). Concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ (25(OH)D₃) were assessed in plasma, while LL-37 mRNA was measured in peripheral blood and in samples obtained from the site of infection. Median 25(OH)D₃ plasma levels in active TB patients were similar to Ethiopian non-TB controls (38.5 versus 35.0 nmol/L) and vitD₃ deficiency (<50 nmol/L) was common in both groups (73%). Ethiopians (low latitude) had significantly lower 25(OH)D₃ levels compared with Swedish non-TB controls (51.0 nmol/L, high latitude), but vitD₃ status was not affected by tuberculin-positivity or HIV infection. Patients with local lymph node TB had significantly higher 25(OH)D₃ levels compared with pulmonary TB patients (48.0 versus 29.0 nmol/L). Moreover, plasma 25(OH)D₃ levels correlated with local LL-37 expression in granulomatous lesions in TB infected lymph nodes. Instead, systemic LL-37 mRNA expression in blood cells was elevated compared with the site of infection in pulmonary and pleural TB. Low vitD₃ status may be associated with an enhanced peripheral expression of LL-37 in patients with intrathoracic TB that could result from chronic inflammation. Full article

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11 pages, 261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Foods and Supplements Associated with Vitamin B₁₂ Biomarkers among Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Participants of the Adventist Health Study-2 (AHS-2) Calibration Study

by Didit Damayanti, Karen Jaceldo-Siegl, W. Lawrence Beeson, Gary Fraser, Keiji Oda and Ella H. Haddad

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060722 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 9486

Abstract

To investigate the association between plasma concentration of vitamin B₁₂ and B₁₂ intake from supplements, fortified foods, and animal source foods among vegetarians and non-vegetarians, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis among 728 participants of the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2) calibration [...] Read more.

To investigate the association between plasma concentration of vitamin B₁₂ and B₁₂ intake from supplements, fortified foods, and animal source foods among vegetarians and non-vegetarians, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis among 728 participants of the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2) calibration study. The median age of participants was 58 years, 65.4% were female, and 50.3% were White. We used six 24 h dietary recalls to measure B₁₂ intake, serum vitamin B₁₂, and holotranscobalamin (holoTC) concentration. B₁₂ supplements had a significantly positive association with plasma B₁₂ among all subjects (p trend < 0.001), especially among vegans and lacto-ovo vegetarians (p trend < 0.001). Among non-users of B₁₂ supplements, B₁₂ intake from milk substitutes was significantly positively associated with holoTC (p trend < 0.004) and serum B12 (p trend < 0.030). In non-vegetarians, holoTC was significantly positively associated with B₁₂ intake from eggs, while serum B₁₂ was significantly positively associated with B₁₂ intake from milk in the upper tertile compared to the lower, and B₁₂ intake from meat in the middle compared to the lower tertile intake (p < 0.011). Supplements containing B₁₂ followed by B₁₂ intake from milk substitutes were significant contributors of plasma vitamin B₁₂ concentration. Full article

10 pages, 2138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aluminum Exposure from Parenteral Nutrition: Early Bile Canaliculus Changes of the Hepatocyte

by Amanda R. Hall, Ha Le, Chris Arnold, Janet Brunton, Robert Bertolo, Grant G. Miller, Gordon A. Zello and Consolato Sergi

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060723 - 4 Jun 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4371

Abstract

Background: Neonates on long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) may develop parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD). Aluminum (Al) is a known contaminant of infant PN, and we hypothesize that it substantially contributes to PNALD. In this study, we aim to assess the impact of Al [...] Read more.

Background: Neonates on long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) may develop parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD). Aluminum (Al) is a known contaminant of infant PN, and we hypothesize that it substantially contributes to PNALD. In this study, we aim to assess the impact of Al on hepatocytes in a piglet model. Methods: We conducted a randomized control trial using a Yucatan piglet PN model. Piglets, aged 3–6 days, were placed into two groups. The high Al group (n = 8) received PN with 63 µg/kg/day of Al, while the low Al group (n = 7) received PN with 24 µg/kg/day of Al. Serum samples for total bile acids (TBA) were collected over two weeks, and liver tissue was obtained at the end of the experiment. Bile canaliculus morphometry were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ImageJ software analysis. Results: The canalicular space was smaller and the microvilli were shorter in the high Al group than in the low Al group. There was no difference in the TBA between the groups. Conclusions: Al causes structural changes in the hepatocytes despite unaltered serum bile acids. High Al in PN is associated with short microvilli, which could decrease the functional excretion area of the hepatocytes and impair bile flow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Parenteral Nutrition)

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11 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inflammatory Dietary Pattern, IL-17F Genetic Variant, and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer

by Young Ae Cho, Jeonghee Lee, Jae Hwan Oh, Hee Jin Chang, Dae Kyung Sohn, Aesun Shin and Jeongseon Kim

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060724 - 5 Jun 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4414

Abstract

A proinflammatory diet may increase the risk of colorectal cancer, but its role may differ according to individuals’ genetic variants. We aimed to examine whether a specific dietary pattern reflecting inflammation was associated with a risk of colorectal cancer and whether IL-17F genetic [...] Read more.

A proinflammatory diet may increase the risk of colorectal cancer, but its role may differ according to individuals’ genetic variants. We aimed to examine whether a specific dietary pattern reflecting inflammation was associated with a risk of colorectal cancer and whether IL-17F genetic variant altered this association. In a study of 695 colorectal cancer cases and 1846 controls, we derived a reduced rank regression dietary pattern using 32 food groups as predictors and the plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration as the response. High CRP levels were associated with a high risk of colorectal cancer (OR (95% CI) = 3.58 (2.65–4.82) for the highest quartile vs. lowest quartile). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, high pattern scores were associated with a high risk of colorectal cancer (OR (95% CI) = 9.98 (6.81–14.62) for the highest quartile vs. lowest quartile). When stratified by the IL-17F rs763780 genotype, this association was stronger for individuals carrying the C allele (p for interaction = 0.034), particularly for individuals with rectal cancer (p for interaction = 0.011). In conclusion, a dietary pattern reflecting inflammation was significantly associated with colorectal cancer risk. Moreover, this association could be modified according to the IL-17F rs763780 genotype and anatomic site. Full article

19 pages, 603 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coffee and Tea Consumption and the Contribution of Their Added Ingredients to Total Energy and Nutrient Intakes in 10 European Countries: Benchmark Data from the Late 1990s

by Edwige Landais, Aurélie Moskal, Amy Mullee, Geneviève Nicolas, Marc J. Gunter, Inge Huybrechts, Kim Overvad, Nina Roswall, Aurélie Affret, Guy Fagherazzi, Yahya Mahamat-Saleh, Verena Katzke, Tilman Kühn, Carlo La Vecchia, Antonia Trichopoulou, Elissavet Valanou, Calogero Saieva, Maria Santucci de Magistris, Sabina Sieri, Tonje Braaten, Guri Skeie, Elisabete Weiderpass, Eva Ardanaz, Maria-Dolores Chirlaque, Jose Ramon Garcia, Paula Jakszyn, Miguel Rodríguez-Barranco, Louise Brunkwall, Ena Huseinovic, Lena Nilsson, Peter Wallström, Bas Bueno-de-Mesquita, Petra H. Peeters, Dagfinn Aune, Tim Key, Marleen Lentjes, Elio Riboli, Nadia Slimani and Heinz Freisling Show full author list Hide full author list

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060725 - 5 Jun 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 12109

Abstract

Background: Coffee and tea are among the most commonly consumed nonalcoholic beverages worldwide, but methodological differences in assessing intake often hamper comparisons across populations. We aimed to (i) describe coffee and tea intakes and (ii) assess their contribution to intakes of selected nutrients [...] Read more.

Background: Coffee and tea are among the most commonly consumed nonalcoholic beverages worldwide, but methodological differences in assessing intake often hamper comparisons across populations. We aimed to (i) describe coffee and tea intakes and (ii) assess their contribution to intakes of selected nutrients in adults across 10 European countries. Method: Between 1995 and 2000, a standardized 24-h dietary recall was conducted among 36,018 men and women from 27 European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study centres. Adjusted arithmetic means of intakes were estimated in grams (=volume) per day by sex and centre. Means of intake across centres were compared by sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle factors. Results: In women, the mean daily intake of coffee ranged from 94 g/day (~0.6 cups) in Greece to 781 g/day (~4.4 cups) in Aarhus (Denmark), and tea from 14 g/day (~0.1 cups) in Navarra (Spain) to 788 g/day (~4.3 cups) in the UK general population. Similar geographical patterns for mean daily intakes of both coffee and tea were observed in men. Current smokers as compared with those who reported never smoking tended to drink on average up to 500 g/day more coffee and tea combined, but with substantial variation across centres. Other individuals’ characteristics such as educational attainment or age were less predictive. In all centres, coffee and tea contributed to less than 10% of the energy intake. The greatest contribution to total sugar intakes was observed in Southern European centres (up to ~20%). Conclusion: Coffee and tea intake and their contribution to energy and sugar intake differed greatly among European adults. Variation in consumption was mostly driven by geographical region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Caffeine and Coffee on Human Health)

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11 pages, 2788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Iron Promotes Intestinal Development in Neonatal Piglets

by Yutian Pu, Shuhui Li, Haitao Xiong, Xiaofeng Zhang, Yizhen Wang and Huahua Du

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060726 - 5 Jun 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5050

Abstract

Early nutrition is key to promoting gut growth and education of the immune system. Although iron deficiency anemia has long been recognized as a serious iron disorder, the effects of iron supplementation on gut development are less clear. Therefore, using suckling piglets as [...] Read more.

Early nutrition is key to promoting gut growth and education of the immune system. Although iron deficiency anemia has long been recognized as a serious iron disorder, the effects of iron supplementation on gut development are less clear. Therefore, using suckling piglets as the model for iron deficiency, we assessed the impacts of iron supplementation on hematological status, gut development, and immunity improvement. Piglets were parenterally supplied with iron dextran (FeDex, 60 mg Fe/kg) by intramuscular administration on the third day after birth and slaughtered at the age of two days, five days, 10 days, and 20 days. It was expected that iron supplementation with FeDex improved the iron status with higher levels of serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, and iron loading in the liver by regulating the interaction of hepcidin and ferroportin (FPN). FeDex supplementation increased villus length and crypt depth, attenuated the pathological status of the duodenum, and was beneficial to intestinal mucosa. FeDex also influenced the intestinal immune development by stimulating the cytokines’ production of the intestine and enhancing the phagocytotic capacity of monocytes. Overall, the present study suggested that iron supplementation helped promote the development of the intestine by improving its morphology, which maintains its mucosal integrity and enhances the expression of immuno-associated factors. Full article

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11 pages, 632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adiposity and Serum Selenium in U.S. Adults

by Qiuan Zhong, Ruoxi Lin and Qingjiao Nong

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060727 - 5 Jun 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4452

Abstract

Requirements for selenium and other antioxidant nutrients are increased in pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory conditions such as excess adiposity. Data concerning the association of excess general and central adiposity with circulating selenium concentrations, however, are limited. We examined the cross-sectional associations of body mass [...] Read more.

Requirements for selenium and other antioxidant nutrients are increased in pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory conditions such as excess adiposity. Data concerning the association of excess general and central adiposity with circulating selenium concentrations, however, are limited. We examined the cross-sectional associations of body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (%BF), and waist circumference (WC) with serum selenium concentrations in 6440 men and 6849 women aged ≥20 years who participated in the U.S. Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. In multivariable analyses, the average difference (95% confidence interval (CI)) in serum selenium comparing the highest with the lowest quartiles of BMI was −4.0 (−5.5, −1.6) ng/mL in both men and women. These inverse associations were evident after further adjustment for WC. For %BF, the average differences (95% CI) in serum selenium between the highest and the lowest quartiles of %BF were −1.7 (−4.2, 0.7) ng/mL in men and −4.5 (−7.0, −1.9) ng/mL in women. The inverse association in women persisted after adjusting for WC. For WC, the average differences (95% CI) in serum selenium between the highest and the lowest quartiles were −1.9 (−3.8, −0.1) ng/mL in men and −3.9 (−5.8, −2.0) ng/mL in women. After further adjustment for BMI, the inverse association became positive in men and null in women. Our findings suggest that general and central adiposity have different associations with serum selenium levels and that these associations may depend on gender. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selenium and Selenoproteins in Environment, Health and Disease)

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20 pages, 2584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Exposure to High Sucrose Levels near Weaning Has a Similar Long-Lasting Effect on Hypertension as a Long-Term Exposure in Rats

by Mariana Villegas-Romero, Vicente Castrejón-Téllez, Israel Pérez-Torres, María Esther Rubio-Ruiz, Elizabeth Carreón-Torres, Eulises Díaz-Díaz, Leonardo Del Valle-Mondragón and Verónica Guarner-Lans

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060728 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4092

Abstract

Adverse conditions during early developmental stages permanently modify the metabolic function of organisms through epigenetic changes. Exposure to high sugar diets during gestation and/or lactation affects susceptibility to metabolic syndrome or hypertension in adulthood. The effect of a high sugar diet for shorter [...] Read more.

Adverse conditions during early developmental stages permanently modify the metabolic function of organisms through epigenetic changes. Exposure to high sugar diets during gestation and/or lactation affects susceptibility to metabolic syndrome or hypertension in adulthood. The effect of a high sugar diet for shorter time lapses remains unclear. Here we studied the effect of short-term sucrose ingestion near weaning (postnatal days 12 and 28) (STS) and its effect after long-term ingestion, for a period of seven months (LTS) in rats. Rats receiving sucrose for seven months develop metabolic syndrome (MS). The mechanisms underlying hypertension in this model and those that underlie the effects of short-term exposure have not been studied. We explore NO and endothelin-1 concentration, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression, fatty acid participation and the involvement of oxidative stress (OS) after LTS and STS. Blood pressure increased to similar levels in adult rats that received sucrose during short- and long-term glucose exposure. The endothelin-1 concentration increased only in LTS rats. eNOS and SOD2 expression determined by Western blot and total antioxidant capacity were diminished in both groups. Saturated fatty acids and arachidonic acid were only decreased in LTS rats. In conclusion, a high-sugar diet during STS increases the hypertension predisposition in adulthood to as high a level as LTS, and the mechanisms involved have similarities (participation of OS and eNOS and SOD expression) and differences (fatty acids and arachidonic acid only participate in LTS and an elevated level of endothelin-1 was only found in LTS) in both conditions. Changes in the diet during short exposure times in early developmental stages have long-lasting effects in determining hypertension susceptibility. Full article

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15 pages, 1237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of First Meal Size during Prolonged Sitting on Postprandial Glycaemia in Individuals with Prediabetes: A Randomised, Crossover Study

by Evelyn B. Parr, Brooke L. Devlin, Samuel K. Pinto, David W. Dunstan and John A. Hawley

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060733 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5311

Abstract

We compared the impact of a high versus low energy intake first meal on glucose and insulin responses during prolonged sitting in individuals with prediabetes. Thirteen adults with overweight/obesity and prediabetes (mean ± SD age: 60 ± 6 years, BMI: 33 ± 4 [...] Read more.

We compared the impact of a high versus low energy intake first meal on glucose and insulin responses during prolonged sitting in individuals with prediabetes. Thirteen adults with overweight/obesity and prediabetes (mean ± SD age: 60 ± 6 years, BMI: 33 ± 4 kg/m²; 2 h OGTT: 8.9 ± 1.1 mmol/L) completed two randomised trials: 10 h uninterrupted sitting, incorporating three meals with matching macronutrient compositions but different energy distributions: High-Energy Breakfast (HE-BF; breakfast: 50%, lunch: 30%, dinner: 20% energy intake), Low-Energy Breakfast (LE-BF: 20%/30%/50% energy intake). Venous blood was sampled from 08:00–18:00 h for determination of plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, with 24 h continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Total glucose area under the curve (AUC; +5.7 mmol/L/h, p = 0.019) and mean plasma glucose concentrations (+0.5 mmol/L, p = 0.014) were greater after HE-BF compared to LE-BF. In the HE-BF condition, compared to LE-BF, there was a greater incremental area under the curve (iAUC) for plasma glucose post-breakfast (+44 ± 59%, p = 0.007), but lower iAUC post-lunch (−55 ± 36%, p < 0.001). Total insulin AUC was greater (+480 mIU/mL/h, p < 0.01) after HE-BF compared to LE-BF. Twenty-four-hour (24 h) CGM revealed no differences in mean glucose and total AUC between conditions. Compared to a low-energy first meal, a high-energy first meal elicited exaggerated plasma insulin and glucose responses until lunch but had little effect on 24 h glycaemia. During periods of prolonged sitting, adults with prediabetes may have more beneficial postprandial insulin responses to a low-energy first meal. Full article

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7 pages, 396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decreased Levels of Circulating Carboxylated Osteocalcin in Children with Low Energy Fractures: A Pilot Study

by Janusz Popko, Michał Karpiński, Sylwia Chojnowska, Katarzyna Maresz, Robert Milewski, Vladimir Badmaev and Leon J. Schurgers

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060734 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7688

Abstract

Objective: In the past decades, an increased interest in the roles of vitamin D and K has become evident, in particular in relation to bone health and prevention of bone fractures. The aim of the current study was to evaluate vitamin D and [...] Read more.

Objective: In the past decades, an increased interest in the roles of vitamin D and K has become evident, in particular in relation to bone health and prevention of bone fractures. The aim of the current study was to evaluate vitamin D and K status in children with low-energy fractures and in children without fractures. Methods: The study group of 20 children (14 boys, 6 girls) aged 5 to 15 years old, with radiologically confirmed low-energy fractures was compared with the control group of 19 healthy children (9 boys, 10 girls), aged 7 to 17 years old, without fractures. Total vitamin D (25(OH)D3 plus 25(OH)D2), calcium, BALP (bone alkaline phosphatase), NTx (N-terminal telopeptide), and uncarboxylated (ucOC) and carboxylated osteocalcin (cOC) serum concentrations were evaluated. Ratio of serum uncarboxylated osteocalcin to serum carboxylated osteocalcin ucOC:cOC (UCR) was used as an indicator of bone vitamin K status. Logistic regression models were created to establish UCR influence for odds ratio of low-energy fractures in both groups. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the serum calcium, NTx, BALP, or total vitamin D levels between the two groups. There was, however, a statistically significant difference in the UCR ratio. The median UCR in the fracture group was 0.471 compared with the control group value of 0.245 (p < 0.0001). In the logistic regression analysis, odds ratio of low-energy fractures for UCR was calculated, with an increased risk of fractures by some 78.3 times. Conclusions: In this pilot study, better vitamin K status expressed as the ratio of ucOC:cOC-UCR—is positively and statistically significantly correlated with lower rate of low-energy fracture incidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin K in Human Health and Disease)

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19 pages, 3950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hepatoprotective Effects of Insect Extracts in an Animal Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

by A-Rang Im, Won-Kyung Yang, Yang-Chun Park, Seung Hyung Kim and Sungwook Chae

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060735 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5851

Abstract

Insects represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms on earth and are potential food and drug resources. Recently, we have demonstrated that a Forsythia viridissima extract prevented free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation in an in vitro cellular nonalcoholic fatty liver disease [...] Read more.

Insects represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms on earth and are potential food and drug resources. Recently, we have demonstrated that a Forsythia viridissima extract prevented free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation in an in vitro cellular nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of extracts of the insects Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis Kolbe, 1886 (PB), Oxya chinensis sinuosa Mishchenko, 1951 (OC), and Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer, 1773 (GB) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD animal model, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The effects of the supplementation with PB, OC, and GB extracts were evaluated histopathologically and histochemically. PB, OC, and GB extract supplementation inhibited the HFD-induced increase in body weight and body fat mass and ameliorated other adverse changes, resulting in decreased liver function parameters, lower serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and increased serum adiponectin levels. The expression of hepatic genes involved in lipid droplet accumulation and in fatty acid uptake also decreased upon treatment of HFD-fed mice with the extracts. These results provide evidence of the protective effects of the PB, OC, and GB extracts against HFD-induced fatty liver disease in an animal model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Dietary Supplements)

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14 pages, 773 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Iodine Status Assessment in South African Adults According to Spot Urinary Iodine Concentrations, Prediction Equations, and Measured 24-h Iodine Excretion

by Karen E. Charlton, Lisa J. Ware, Jeannine Baumgartner, Marike Cockeran, Aletta E. Schutte, Nirmala Naidoo and Paul Kowal

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 736; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060736 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5097

Abstract

The iodine status of populations is conventionally assessed using spot urinary samples to obtain a median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) value, which is assessed against standard reference cut-offs. The assumption that spot UIC reflects daily iodine intake may be flawed because of high [...] Read more.

The iodine status of populations is conventionally assessed using spot urinary samples to obtain a median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) value, which is assessed against standard reference cut-offs. The assumption that spot UIC reflects daily iodine intake may be flawed because of high day-to-day variability and variable urinary volume outputs. This study aimed to compare iodine status in a sample of South African adults when determined by different approaches using a spot urine sample (median UIC (MUIC), predicted 24 h urinary iodine excretion (PrUIE) using different prediction equations) against measured 24 h urinary iodine excretion (mUIE). Both 24 h and spot urine samples were collected in a subsample of participants (n = 457; median age 55 year; range 18–90 year) in the World Health Organization Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) Wave 2 in South Africa, in 2015. Kawasaki, Tanaka, and Mage equations were applied to assess PrUIE from predicted urinary creatinine (PrCr) and spot UIC values. Adequacy of iodine intake was assessed by comparing PrUIE and mUIE to the Estimated Average Requirement of 95 µg/day, while the MUIC cut-off was <100 µg/L. Bland Altman plots assessed the level of agreement between measured and predicted UIE. Median UIC (130 µg/L) indicated iodine sufficiency. The prediction equations had unacceptable bias for PrUIE compared to measured UIE. In a sample of adult South Africans, the use of spot UIC, presented as a group median value (MUIC) provided similar estimates of inadequate iodine status, overall, when compared to EAR assessed using measured 24 h iodine excretion (mUIE). Continued use of MUIC as a biomarker to assess the adequacy of population iodine intake appears warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Iodine and Health throughout the Lifecourse)

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17 pages, 673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of the Classification of Food Products in the Mexican Market According to Seven Different Nutrient Profiling Systems

by Alejandra Contreras-Manzano, Alejandra Jáuregui, Anabel Velasco-Bernal, Jorge Vargas-Meza, Juan A Rivera, Lizbeth Tolentino-Mayo and Simón Barquera

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060737 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8981

Abstract

Nutrient profiling systems (NPS) are used around the world. In some countries, the food industry participates in the design of these systems. We aimed to compare the ability of various NPS to identify processed and ultra-processed Mexican products containing excessive amounts of critical [...] Read more.

Nutrient profiling systems (NPS) are used around the world. In some countries, the food industry participates in the design of these systems. We aimed to compare the ability of various NPS to identify processed and ultra-processed Mexican products containing excessive amounts of critical nutrients. A sample of 2544 foods and beverages available in the Mexican market were classified as compliant and non-compliant according to seven NPS: the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) model, which served as our reference, the Nutrient Profiling Scoring Criterion (NPSC), the Mexican Committee of Nutrition Experts (MCNE), the Health Star Rating (HSR), the Mexican Nutritional Seal (MNS), the Chilean Warning Octagons (CWO) 2016, 2018 and 2019 criteria, and Ecuador’s Multiple Traffic Light (MTL). Overall, the proportion of foods classified as compliant by the HSR, MTL and MCNE models was similar to the PAHO model. In contrast, the NPSC, the MNS and the CWO-2016 classified a higher amount of foods as compliant. Larger differences between NPS classification were observed across food categories. Results support the notion that models developed with the involvement of food manufacturers are more permissive than those based on scientific evidence. Results highlight the importance of thoroughly evaluating the underlying criteria of a model. Full article

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14 pages, 1262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison between Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry and Bioelectrical Impedance Analyses for Accuracy in Measuring Whole Body Muscle Mass and Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass

by Seo Young Lee, Soyeon Ahn, Young Ji Kim, Myoung Jin Ji, Kyoung Min Kim, Sung Hee Choi, Hak Chul Jang and Soo Lim

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060738 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 131 | Viewed by 8618

Abstract

We evaluate the accuracy of whole body muscle mass (WBMM) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) using an InBody770 machine (InBody, Seoul, Korea) referenced to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 507 people (mean age 63.7 ± 10.8 [...] Read more.

We evaluate the accuracy of whole body muscle mass (WBMM) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) using an InBody770 machine (InBody, Seoul, Korea) referenced to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 507 people (mean age 63.7 ± 10.8 years, body mass index (BMI) 25.2 ± 3.5 kg/m²). Mean WBMMs measured by BIA and DXA were 49.3 ± 6.6 kg and 46.8 ± 6.5 kg in men and 36.1 ± 4.7 kg and 34.0 ± 4.8 kg in women, respectively. The respective effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the difference were 2.49 (2.22–2.76) for men, and 2.12 (1.91–2.33) for women. Mean ASMMs measured by BIA and DXA were 22.1 ± 3.3 kg and 19.9 ± 3.2 kg in men, and 15.3 ± 2.5 kg and 13.5 ± 2.2 kg in women, respectively. The respective effect sizes and 95% CIs for the difference were 2.26 (2.10–2.41) for men and 1.75 (1.65–1.87) for women. The BIA clearly overestimated WBMM by 2.28 kg and ASMM by 1.97 kg compared with DXA. Using BMI, gender, and fat percentage, we derive equations that improved the residuals to <2 kg between methods from 38.29% to 85.91% for WBMM and 52.78% to 97.02% for ASMM. Full article

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11 pages, 699 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Glutamine on Gastric Emptying of Low- and High-Nutrient Drinks in Healthy Young Subjects—Impact on Glycaemia

by Yang T. Du, Diana Piscitelli, Saima Ahmad, Laurence G. Trahair, Jerry R. Greenfield, Dorit Samocha-Bonet, Christopher K. Rayner, Michael Horowitz and Karen L. Jones

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060739 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5677

Abstract

Glutamine is a potent stimulus for the release of glucagon-like peptide-1, which increases postprandial insulin and slows gastric emptying (GE). We determined the effects of glutamine on GE of, and glycaemic responses to, low- and high-nutrient drinks in eight healthy males (mean age [...] Read more.

Glutamine is a potent stimulus for the release of glucagon-like peptide-1, which increases postprandial insulin and slows gastric emptying (GE). We determined the effects of glutamine on GE of, and glycaemic responses to, low- and high-nutrient drinks in eight healthy males (mean age 21.6 ± 0.7 years and BMI 22.9 ± 0.7 kg/m²). Participants were studied on four occasions on which they consumed either a low-nutrient (beef soup; 18 kcal) or high-nutrient (75 g dextrose; 255 kcal) drink, each with or without 30 g of glutamine (120 kcal), in a randomised, crossover design. GE (2D ultrasound), blood glucose and plasma insulin concentrations were measured concurrently. Glutamine slowed GE (half emptying time (T50)) of both low- (45 ± 3 min vs. 26 ± 2 min, p < 0.001), and high-nutrient, (100 ± 5 min vs. 77 ± 5 min, p = 0.03) drinks, however, there was no effect on GE of the high nutrient drinks when expressed as kcal/min (3.39 ± 0.21 kcal/min vs. 3.81 ± 0.20 kcal/min, p = 0.25). There was no change in blood glucose after the low-nutrient drinks with or without glutamine, despite a slight increase in plasma insulin with glutamine (p = 0.007). The rise in blood glucose following the high-nutrient drink (p = 0.0001) was attenuated during the first 60 min by glutamine (p = 0.007). We conclude that in healthy subjects, glutamine slows GE of both low- and high-nutrient drinks comparably and attenuates the rise in blood glucose after the high-nutrient glucose drink. Full article

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16 pages, 1450 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Impact of a Modified Version of Baby-Led Weaning on Infant Food and Nutrient Intakes: The BLISS Randomized Controlled Trial

by Liz Williams Erickson, Rachael W. Taylor, Jillian J. Haszard, Elizabeth A. Fleming, Lisa Daniels, Brittany J. Morison, Claudia Leong, Louise J. Fangupo, Benjamin J. Wheeler, Barry J. Taylor, Lisa Te Morenga, Rachael M. McLean and Anne-Louise M. Heath

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 740; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060740 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 18323

Abstract

Despite growing international interest in Baby-Led Weaning (BLW), we know almost nothing about food and nutrient intake in infants following baby-led approaches to infant feeding. The aim of this paper was to determine the impact of modified BLW (i.e., Baby-Led Introduction to SolidS; [...] Read more.

Despite growing international interest in Baby-Led Weaning (BLW), we know almost nothing about food and nutrient intake in infants following baby-led approaches to infant feeding. The aim of this paper was to determine the impact of modified BLW (i.e., Baby-Led Introduction to SolidS; BLISS) on food and nutrient intake at 7–24 months of age. Two hundred and six women recruited in late pregnancy were randomized to Control (n = 101) or BLISS (n = 105) groups. All participants received standard well-child care. BLISS participants also received lactation consultant support to six months, and educational sessions about BLISS (5.5, 7, and 9 months). Three-day weighed diet records were collected for the infants (7, 12, and 24 months). Compared to the Control group, BLISS infants consumed more sodium (percent difference, 95% CI: 35%, 19% to 54%) and fat (6%, 1% to 11%) at 7 months, and less saturated fat (−7%, −14% to −0.4%) at 12 months. No differences were apparent at 24 months of age but the majority of infants from both groups had excessive intakes of sodium (68% of children) and added sugars (75% of children). Overall, BLISS appears to result in a diet that is as nutritionally adequate as traditional spoon-feeding, and may address some concerns about the nutritional adequacy of unmodified BLW. However, BLISS and Control infants both had high intakes of sodium and added sugars by 24 months that are concerning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Life Nutrition: From Nutrients to Systems)

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11 pages, 1094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Study on Carbohydrate Estimation: GoCARB vs. Dietitians

by Maria F. Vasiloglou, Stavroula Mougiakakou, Emilie Aubry, Anika Bokelmann, Rita Fricker, Filomena Gomes, Cathrin Guntermann, Alexa Meyer, Diana Studerus and Zeno Stanga

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060741 - 7 Jun 2018

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 10809

Abstract

GoCARB is a computer vision-based smartphone system designed for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes to estimate plated meals’ carbohydrate (CHO) content. We aimed to compare the accuracy of GoCARB in estimating CHO with the estimations of six experienced dietitians. GoCARB was used to [...] Read more.

GoCARB is a computer vision-based smartphone system designed for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes to estimate plated meals’ carbohydrate (CHO) content. We aimed to compare the accuracy of GoCARB in estimating CHO with the estimations of six experienced dietitians. GoCARB was used to estimate the CHO content of 54 Central European plated meals, with each of them containing three different weighed food items. Ground truth was calculated using the USDA food composition database. Dietitians were asked to visually estimate the CHO content based on meal photographs. GoCARB and dietitians achieved comparable accuracies. The mean absolute error of the dietitians was 14.9 (SD 10.12) g of CHO versus 14.8 (SD 9.73) g of CHO for the GoCARB (p = 0.93). No differences were found between the estimations of dietitians and GoCARB, regardless the meal size. The larger the size of the meal, the greater were the estimation errors made by both. Moreover, the higher the CHO content of a food category was, the more challenging its accurate estimation. GoCARB had difficulty in estimating rice, pasta, potatoes, and mashed potatoes, while dietitians had problems with pasta, chips, rice, and polenta. GoCARB may offer diabetic patients the option of an easy, accurate, and almost real-time estimation of the CHO content of plated meals, and thus enhance diabetes self-management. Full article

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13 pages, 1903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Functional Food Mixture “Protector” Reinforces the Protective Immune Parameters against Viral Flu Infection in Mice

by Kenza A. Mansoor, Fadi Qadan, Mathias Schmidt, Nidal A. Qinna, Mujtaba Badr and Khalid Z. Matalka

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060743 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6171

Abstract

Background: Viral influenza infection causes serious health issues especially when an outbreak occurs. Although influenza virus vaccines are available and each year manufactures modify the vaccine depending on the expected mutated strain, it is still far from satisfactory, mainly in young children [...] Read more.

Background: Viral influenza infection causes serious health issues especially when an outbreak occurs. Although influenza virus vaccines are available and each year manufactures modify the vaccine depending on the expected mutated strain, it is still far from satisfactory, mainly in young children and older adults. Therefore, a product that can support and shape the immune system to protect against viral flu infections is highly essential. Methods: A functional food water-soluble mixture of pomegranate, red grape, dates, olive fruit, figs, and ginger extracts, termed herein “Protector”, was prepared and tested in stimulating/modulating the production of specific cytokines, and hemagglutinin inhibition (HAI) antibodies following viral flu vaccination in mice. Results: A single intraperitoneal or multiple oral administration for 1–7 days of “Protector” significantly increased the production of interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-12 in blood, spleen, and lungs of mice. When “Protector” was orally administered for one week following a single vaccine injection (primary immunization) or for two weeks (one week apart) following double vaccine injections (secondary immunization), mice significantly produced higher titers of HAI antibodies. This increase in HAI antibodies was associated with Pillow-inducing significant and different changes in vaccine-induced IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-6 and IL-22 following primary and secondary immunizations. Conclusions: “Protector” administration reinforces the protective immune parameters against viral flu infection. Therefore, after performing preclinical toxicology studies and ensuring its safety, “Protector” should be considered a potential product to be tested in clinical trials to conclude its efficacy in reducing the devastating effects of flu infection in humans and its outbreaks. Full article

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12 pages, 3330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hepatic Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Immune Response in a Murine Model of Peanut Allergy

by Giovanna Trinchese, Lorella Paparo, Rosita Aitoro, Carmela Fierro, Michela Varchetta, Rita Nocerino, Maria Pina Mollica and Roberto Berni Canani

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 744; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060744 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4263

Abstract

Background: Evidence suggests a relevant role for liver and mitochondrial dysfunction in allergic disease. However, the role of hepatic mitochondrial function in food allergy is largely unknown. We aimed to investigate hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction in a murine model of peanut allergy. Methods: Three-week-old [...] Read more.

Background: Evidence suggests a relevant role for liver and mitochondrial dysfunction in allergic disease. However, the role of hepatic mitochondrial function in food allergy is largely unknown. We aimed to investigate hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction in a murine model of peanut allergy. Methods: Three-week-old C3H/HeOuJ mice were sensitized by the oral route with peanut-extract (PNT). We investigated: 1. the occurrence of effective sensitization to PNT by analysing acute allergic skin response, anaphylactic symptoms score, body temperature, serum mucosal mast cell protease-1 (mMCP-1) and anti-PNT immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels; 2. hepatic involvement by analysing interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-10 and IFN-γ mRNA expression; 3. hepatic mitochondrial oxidation rates and efficiency by polarography, and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) yield, aconitase and superoxide dysmutase activities by spectrophotometry. Results: Sensitization to PNT was demonstrated by acute allergic skin response, anaphylactic symptoms score, body temperature decrease, serum mMCP-1 and anti-peanut IgE levels. Liver involvement was demonstrated by a significant increase of hepatic Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) mRNA expression. Mitochondrial dysfunction was demonstrated by lower state 3 respiration rate in the presence of succinate, decreased fatty acid oxidation in the presence of palmitoyl-carnitine, increased yield of ROS proven by the inactivation of aconitase enzyme and higher H₂O₂ mitochondrial release. Conclusions: We provide evidence of hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction in a murine model of peanut allergy. These data could open the way to the identification of new mitochondrial targets for innovative preventive and therapeutic strategies against food allergy. Full article

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8 pages, 234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of Dietary Vitamin D Intake from Two Food Frequency Questionnaires, Using Food Records and the Biomarker 25-Hydroxyvitamin D among Pregnant Women

by Linnea Bärebring, Anna Amberntsson, Anna Winkvist and Hanna Augustin

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 745; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060745 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3775

Abstract

Our objective was to validate vitamin D intake from a short vitamin D questionnaire (VDQ) and a longer online food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) against a food record and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) as a biomarker of vitamin D status, among pregnant women in Sweden. [...] Read more.

Our objective was to validate vitamin D intake from a short vitamin D questionnaire (VDQ) and a longer online food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) against a food record and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) as a biomarker of vitamin D status, among pregnant women in Sweden. The number of women included was 1125 with VDQ, FFQ and 25OHD, and of those, 64 also completed the food record. Median vitamin D intakes were 3.9 µg by VDQ (p < 0.001), and 5.3 µg by FFQ (p = 0.89), compared to 5.0 µg by food record. Correlations between vitamin D intake from food record and VDQ (rho = 0.51, p < 0.001) or FFQ (rho = 0.49, p < 0.001) were similar. The VDQ and FFQ also had a similar ability to rank the individuals according to vitamin D intake. However, only vitamin D intake from the VDQ was significantly associated with vitamin D status as assessed by 25OHD. The validation coefficient for the VDQ was 0.68 and 0.75 for the FFQ. In conclusion, assessing dietary vitamin D intake is challenging, regardless of the dietary assessment method. The VDQ, that includes only four food items, is a valid, simple and useful tool in assessing vitamin D intake of pregnant women in Sweden, while imposing a minimal burden on women and researchers. Full article

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20 pages, 2120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Information and Educational Messages on Outer Packaging of Micronutrient Powders Distributed in Indonesia Increase Caregiver Knowledge and Adherence to Recommended Use

by Aang Sutrisna, Marieke Vossenaar, Alia Poonawala, Agnes Mallipu, Doddy Izwardy, Ravi Menon and Alison Tumilowicz

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060747 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 8901

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the influence of improved information and educational messages on outer packaging of a micronutrient powder (MNP), locally known as “Taburia”, on knowledge and adherence to recommended use. A community-based cluster randomized controlled trial [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to examine the influence of improved information and educational messages on outer packaging of a micronutrient powder (MNP), locally known as “Taburia”, on knowledge and adherence to recommended use. A community-based cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among 1149 caregivers and their children aged 6–36 months. Caregiver–child dyads were randomized by their villages to receive 30 sachets of Taburia with the: (i) original outer packaging; (ii) improved outer packaging; or (iii) improved outer packaging combined with cooking demonstrations. Adherence to Taburia use was assessed through caregiver interviews and observation of unused sachets during home visits; “high” adherence was defined as consuming 13–17 sachets in the previous month. Data collection included surveys and focus groups discussions. The majority of caregivers (>80%) preferred the improved packaging because it was more attractive and contained more comprehensive information. Caregivers who received the improved packaging had better knowledge regarding the recommended use of Taburia (p < 0.001) and higher adherence with the prescribed use of Taburia (43% with “high” adherence) (p < 0.001) than those who received the original packaging (29% with “high” adherence). Caregivers who participated in cooking demonstrations generally had better knowledge regarding the benefits of Taburia and recommended use, but this did not lead to higher adherence to recommended use. “Underconsumption” of Taburia (≤7 sachets) was much less prevalent than “overconsumption” (≥23 sachets), and original packaging users were more likely to consume Taburia daily instead of every two days as recommended. We conclude that the design of the outer packaging and comprehensiveness of information provided are important influencers of recommended MNP use by caregivers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Dietary Supplements)

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18 pages, 3408 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lightly Cooked Broccoli Is as Effective as Raw Broccoli in Mitigating Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

by Yanling Wang, Elizabeth H. Jeffery, Michael J. Miller, Matthew A. Wallig and Yuanfeng Wu

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060748 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5294

Abstract

Dietary broccoli is anti-inflammatory. Past studies have typically investigated raw broccoli, even though most consumers prefer cooked broccoli, where the plant myrosinase is inactivated by heat, resulting in failure of formation of the anti-inflammatory bioactive compound sulforaphane (SF). This study compareed efficacy of [...] Read more.

Dietary broccoli is anti-inflammatory. Past studies have typically investigated raw broccoli, even though most consumers prefer cooked broccoli, where the plant myrosinase is inactivated by heat, resulting in failure of formation of the anti-inflammatory bioactive compound sulforaphane (SF). This study compareed efficacy of lightly cooked broccoli (CB) containing greatly diminished myrosinase activity, with raw broccoli (RB), in mitigating colitis in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-treated mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed for two weeks on a 10% RB, 10% CB or control diet, all based on the AIN-93M diet. Half (n = 9) of each group received drinking water, half received 2.5% DSS in water for one week, starting from Day 7 of the diet. Even with far less plant myrosinase activity, CB was essentially as effective as RB in lessening damage by DSS, evidenced by decreased disease activity index, attenuated colon length shrinkage, less endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) leakage into blood, and less severe colon lesions as assessed by histopathology. mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines indicated that broccoli anti-inflammatory action may be through inhibition of the IL-6 trans-signaling pathway, as evidenced by reversal of the DSS-increased expression of IL-6, CCR2 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1). Full article

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18 pages, 2505 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Life Vitamin C Deficiency Does Not Alter Morphology of Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons or Markers of Synaptic Plasticity in a Guinea Pig Model

by Stine N. Hansen, Jane M. Bjørn Jørgensen, Jens R. Nyengaard, Jens Lykkesfeldt and Pernille Tveden-Nyborg

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060749 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7204

Abstract

Approximately 15% of the Western world population, including pregnant women and their children, is characterized as vitamin C (vitC) deficient. In guinea pigs, early life vitC deficiency causes spatial memory deficits, decreased hippocampal volume and neuron numbers, in otherwise clinically healthy animals. We [...] Read more.

Approximately 15% of the Western world population, including pregnant women and their children, is characterized as vitamin C (vitC) deficient. In guinea pigs, early life vitC deficiency causes spatial memory deficits, decreased hippocampal volume and neuron numbers, in otherwise clinically healthy animals. We hypothesized that vitC deficiency leads to decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor and synaptic plasticity markers in selected brain areas (frontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum) and cause morphological changes in cornu ammonis 1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus either through a direct effect or indirectly by increased oxidative stress. Fifty-seven female guinea pigs were allocated to three groups receiving either 1390, 100 or 0–50 mg vitC/kg feed for 11 weeks. Dietary vitC levels were reflected in the plasma, cortical and adrenal gland levels, however, redox imbalance was only present in the adrenal glands allowing for the investigation of a direct influence of vitC deficiency on the chosen parameters in the brain. Synaptic plasticity markers were not affected in the investigated brain areas and no differences in isolated pyramidal neuron morphology was recorded. Based on our findings, it appears that vitC deficiency may primarily elicit impaired neuronal function through increased levels of oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle Strategies in Cognitive Decline: Focus on Nutrition)

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19 pages, 1525 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled, Acute Feeding Equivalence Trial of Small, Catalytic Doses of Fructose and Allulose on Postprandial Blood Glucose Metabolism in Healthy Participants: The Fructose and Allulose Catalytic Effects (FACE) Trial

by Catherine R. Braunstein, Jarvis C. Noronha, Andrea J. Glenn, Effie Viguiliouk, Rebecca Noseworthy, Tauseef A. Khan, Fei Au-Yeung, Sonia Blanco Mejia, Thomas M.S. Wolever, Robert G. Josse, Cyril W.C. Kendall and John L. Sievenpiper

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060750 - 9 Jun 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8179

Abstract

Recent literature suggests that catalytic doses (≤10 g/meal or 36 g/day) of D-fructose and D-allulose may reduce postprandial blood glucose responses to carbohydrate loads in people with and without type 2 diabetes by inducing glycogen synthesis. To assess the effect of small single [...] Read more.

Recent literature suggests that catalytic doses (≤10 g/meal or 36 g/day) of D-fructose and D-allulose may reduce postprandial blood glucose responses to carbohydrate loads in people with and without type 2 diabetes by inducing glycogen synthesis. To assess the effect of small single doses of fructose and allulose on postprandial blood glucose regulation in response to a 75 g-oral glucose tolerance test (75 g-OGTT) in healthy individuals, we conducted an acute randomized, crossover, equivalence trial in healthy adults. Each participant randomly received six treatments, separated by a minimum one-week washout. Treatments consisted of a 75 g-OGTT with the addition of fructose or allulose at 0 g (control), 5 g or 10 g. A standard 75 g-OGTT protocol was followed with blood samples at −30, 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 min. The primary outcome was the difference in plasma glucose incremental area under the curve (iAUC). A total of 27 participants underwent randomization with data available from 25 participants. Small doses of fructose or allulose did not show a significant effect on plasma glucose iAUC or other secondary markers of postprandial blood glucose regulation in response to a 75 g-OGTT in healthy individuals. These results were limited by the low power to detect a significant difference, owing to greater than expected intra-individual coefficient of variation (CV) in plasma glucose iAUC. Overall, we failed to confirm the catalytic effects of small doses of fructose and allulose in healthy individuals. Future trials may consider recruiting larger sample sizes of healthy individuals. Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov identifier, NCT02459834. Full article

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12 pages, 1032 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Biomimetic Tool for Assessing Vitamin K Status Based on Molecularly Imprinted Polymers

by Kasper Eersels, Hanne Diliën, Joseph W. Lowdon, Erik Steen Redeker, Renato Rogosic, Benjamin Heidt, Marloes Peeters, Peter Cornelis, Petra Lux, Chris P. Reutelingsperger, Leon J. Schurgers, Thomas J. Cleij and Bart Van Grinsven

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060751 - 11 Jun 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6205

Abstract

Vitamin K was originally discovered as a cofactor required to activate clotting factors and has recently been shown to play a key role in the regulation of soft tissue calcification. This property of vitamin K has led to an increased interest in novel [...] Read more.

Vitamin K was originally discovered as a cofactor required to activate clotting factors and has recently been shown to play a key role in the regulation of soft tissue calcification. This property of vitamin K has led to an increased interest in novel methods for accurate vitamin K detection. Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) could offer a solution, as they have been used as synthetic receptors in a large variety of biomimetic sensors for the detection of similar molecules over the past few decades, because of their robust nature and remarkable selectivity. In this article, the authors introduce a novel imprinting approach to create a MIP that is able to selectively rebind vitamin K₁. As the native structure of the vitamin does not allow for imprinting, an alternative imprinting strategy was developed, using the synthetic compound menadione (vitamin K₃) as a template. Target rebinding was analyzed by means of UV-visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy and two custom-made thermal readout techniques. This analysis reveals that the MIP-based sensor reacts to an increasing concentration of both menadione and vitamin K₁. The Limit of Detection (LoD) for both compounds was established at 700 nM for the Heat Transfer Method (HTM), while the optimized readout approach, Thermal Wave Transport Analysis (TWTA), displayed an increased sensitivity with a LoD of 200 nM. The sensor seems to react to a lesser extent to Vitamin E, the analogue under study. To further demonstrate its potential application in biochemical research, the sensor was used to measure the absorption of vitamin K in blood serum after taking vitamin K supplements. By employing a gradual enrichment strategy, the sensor was able to detect the difference between baseline and peak absorption samples and was able to quantify the vitamin K concentration in good agreement with a validation experiment using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). In this way, the authors provide a first proof of principle for a low-cost, straightforward, and label-free vitamin K sensor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin K in Human Health and Disease)

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17 pages, 625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Overview of Whole Grain Regulations, Recommendations and Research across Southeast Asia

by Iain A Brownlee, Ece Durukan, Gabriel Masset, Sinead Hopkins and E-Siong Tee

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 752; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060752 - 11 Jun 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6715

Abstract

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a diverse region that is experiencing economic growth and increased non-communicable disease burden. This paper aims to evaluate the current regulations, dietary recommendations and research related to whole grains in this region. To do this, [...] Read more.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a diverse region that is experiencing economic growth and increased non-communicable disease burden. This paper aims to evaluate the current regulations, dietary recommendations and research related to whole grains in this region. To do this, a systematic literature review was carried out and information was collected on regulations and dietary recommendations from each member state. The majority of publications on whole grains from the region (99 of 147) were in the area of food science and technology, with few observational studies (n = 13) and human intervention studies (n = 10) related to whole grains being apparent. Information from six countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) was available. Wholegrain food-labelling regulations were only noted in Malaysia and Singapore. Public health recommendation related to whole grains were apparent in four countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore), while recent intake data from whole grains was only apparent from Malaysia, The Philippines and Singapore. In all cases, consumption of whole grains appeared to be very low. These findings highlight a need for further monitoring of dietary intake in the region and further strategies targeted at increasing the intake of whole grains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Whole Grains and Human Health)

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13 pages, 2669 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Glucose with Casein Peptide Supplementation on Post-Exercise Muscle Glycogen Resynthesis in C57BL/6J Mice

by Yutaka Matsunaga, Yasuyuki Sakata, Takumi Yago, Hirohiko Nakamura, Takashi Shimizu and Yasuhiro Takeda

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060753 - 11 Jun 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6344

Abstract

Numerous studies have reported that post-exercise ingestion of carbohydrates with protein supplementation can enhance glycogen recovery. However, few reports have focused on the degrees of degradation of the ingested proteins due to post-exercise glycogen resynthesis. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to [...] Read more.

Numerous studies have reported that post-exercise ingestion of carbohydrates with protein supplementation can enhance glycogen recovery. However, few reports have focused on the degrees of degradation of the ingested proteins due to post-exercise glycogen resynthesis. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to clarify the effects of differences in protein degradation on muscle glycogen recovery. Male seven-week-old C57BL/6J mice performed a single bout of 60-min treadmill running exercise and were then orally administered glucose (Glu; 1.5 mg/g body weight (BW)), glucose with casein peptide (Glu + Pep; 1.5 + 0.5 mg/g BW) or its constituent amino acid mixture (Glu + AA; 1.5 + 0.5 mg/g BW). At 120 min after supplementation, the soleus muscle glycogen content in the Glu and Glu + AA groups was significantly higher than that immediately after exercise; however, no such difference was observed in the Glu + Pep group. Blood substrate concentration and insulin signaling did not differ among the three groups. Furthermore, energy expenditure during the recovery period in the Glu + Pep group was significantly higher than that in the Glu and Glu + AA groups. These findings suggest that post-exercise co-ingestion of glucose and casein peptide might delay glycogen resynthesis, at least in part through increased energy expenditure caused by casein peptide ingestion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein for Post-Exercise Recovery and Performance)

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13 pages, 1747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Peucedanum japonicum Extract against Osteoarthritis in an Animal Model Using a Combined Systems Approach for Compound-Target Prediction

by Jin Mi Chun, A Yeong Lee, Joong Sun Kim, Goya Choi and Seung-Hyung Kim

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060754 - 11 Jun 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5121

Abstract

Peucedanum japonicum Thunberg is an herbal medicine used to treat neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory-related diseases. However, its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) and its regulatory mechanisms have not been investigated by network analysis. Here, we investigated the pharmacological effects of Peucedanum japonicum extract [...] Read more.

Peucedanum japonicum Thunberg is an herbal medicine used to treat neuralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory-related diseases. However, its effects on osteoarthritis (OA) and its regulatory mechanisms have not been investigated by network analysis. Here, we investigated the pharmacological effects of Peucedanum japonicum extract (PJE) on OA, by combining in vivo effective verification and network pharmacology prediction. Rats in which OA was induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) were treated with PJE (200 mg/kg), and histopathological parameters, weight bearing distribution and inflammatory factors in serum and joint tissue were measured after 28 days of treatment. Additionally, in silico network analysis was used to predict holistic OA regulatory mechanisms of PJE. The results showed that PJE exerted potential protective effects by recovering hind paw weight bearing distribution, alleviating histopathological features of cartilage and inhibiting inflammatory mediator levels in the OA rat model. Furthermore, network analysis identified caspase-3 (CASP3), caspase-7 (CASP7), and cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) as potential target genes; in addition, the TNF (Tumor necrosis factor) signaling pathway was linked to OA therapeutic action. Our combined animal OA model and network analysis confirmed the therapeutic effects of PJE against OA and identified intracellular signaling pathways, active compounds and target genes linked to its therapeutic action. Full article

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10 pages, 232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Food-Based Social Enterprises and Asylum Seekers: The Food Justice Truck

by Fiona H. McKay, Kehla Lippi, Matthew Dunn, Bronte C. Haines and Rebecca Lindberg

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060756 - 12 Jun 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5665

Abstract

People seeking asylum in high-income countries are vulnerable to food insecurity due to limited opportunities for social and economic participation. While charity organizations have long sought to provide food aid to those in need, the increasing number of people seeking this assistance requires [...] Read more.

People seeking asylum in high-income countries are vulnerable to food insecurity due to limited opportunities for social and economic participation. While charity organizations have long sought to provide food aid to those in need, the increasing number of people seeking this assistance requires alternatives. Using a case study approach, this research investigates The Food Justice Truck, which is a social enterprise designed to provide low cost, nutritious food to people seeking asylum with an aim to reduce the food insecurity burden. Twenty-seven people seeking asylum completed a structured interview (n = 15) or a semi-structured interview (n = 12). The majority of participants were female (n = 20) with an average age of 38.3 years (Standard Deviation (SD) 7.3; range 30–59) and over half were from Iran (n = 16, 59.2%) with most holding a temporary visa to stay in Australia (n = 15, 55.5%). Two key findings were identified including the fact that the FJT is at risk of creating and perpetuating a power imbalance. However, as a social setting, the FJT has the potential to promote and enable a social connection and create a positive experience. This research study adds valuable information to the literature by providing research on one alternative to traditional food aid. It was found that alternatives to traditional food aid may play a role in reducing the food security burden. Full article

11 pages, 2320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunological Comparison of Native and Recombinant Hen’s Egg Yolk Allergen, Chicken Serum Albumin (Gal d 5), Produced in Kluveromyces lactis

by Chamika De Silva, Pathum Dhanapala, Samuel King, Timothy Doran, Mimi Tang and Cenk Suphioglu

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 757; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060757 - 12 Jun 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5429

Abstract

Chicken serum albumin (CSA) is a hen’s egg yolk allergen causing IgE-mediated allergy. The objective of this study was to produce a recombinant version of CSA and compare its IgE reactivity to natural CSA (nCSA). CSA was cloned and expressed as a soluble [...] Read more.

Chicken serum albumin (CSA) is a hen’s egg yolk allergen causing IgE-mediated allergy. The objective of this study was to produce a recombinant version of CSA and compare its IgE reactivity to natural CSA (nCSA). CSA was cloned and expressed as a soluble fraction in the yeast Kluyveromyces lactis (K. lactis) protein expression system. The gene encoding CSA was amplified with a C-terminal hemagglutinin epitope tag by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cloned into the pKLAC2 expression vector prior to transforming into K. lactis. Recombinant CSA (rCSA) was purified by immunoprecipitation. Twenty-one patients allergic to hen’s egg white were examined for sensitisation against nCSA. 38% of patients were found to be sensitised to CSA based on Western immunoassay. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) binding capacity of rCSA and nCSA was analysed by ELISA using sera from patients sensitised to CSA. Levels of IgE-binding were similar for both the recombinant and the natural CSA, indicating the existence of similar epitopes. rCSA produced in this study is a potential candidate to be used in component-resolved diagnosis (CRD) of egg yolk allergy. The usefulness of rCSA in CRD of egg yolk allergy warrants further characterisation using sera from patients with allergy to hen’s egg yolk in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contributions of Diet and Gastrointestinal Digestion to Food Allergy)

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10 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Consumption of Dairy and Its Association with Nutritional Status in the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys (SEANUTS)

by Khanh Le Nguyen Bao, Sandjaja Sandjaja, Bee Koon Poh, Nipa Rojroongwasinkul, Chinh Nguyen Huu, Edith Sumedi, Jamil Nor Aini, Sayamon Senaprom, Paul Deurenberg, Marjolijn Bragt, Ilse Khouw and On behalf of the SEANUTS Study Group

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060759 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7749

Abstract

Despite a major decrease in undernutrition worldwide over the last 25 years, underweight and stunting in children still persist as public health issues especially in Africa and Asia. Adequate nutrition is one of the key factors for healthy growth and development of children. [...] Read more.

Despite a major decrease in undernutrition worldwide over the last 25 years, underweight and stunting in children still persist as public health issues especially in Africa and Asia. Adequate nutrition is one of the key factors for healthy growth and development of children. In this study, the associations between dairy consumption and nutritional status in the South East Asian Nutrition Survey (SEANUTS) were investigated. National representative data of 12,376 children in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam aged between 1 and 12 years were pooled, representing nearly 88 million children in this age category. It was found that the prevalence of stunting and underweight was lower in children who consumed dairy on a daily basis (10.0% and 12.0%, respectively) compared to children who did not use dairy (21.4% and 18.0%, respectively) (p < 0.05). The prevalence of vitamin A deficiency and vitamin D insufficiency was lower in the group of dairy users (3.9% and 39.4%, respectively) compared to non-dairy consumers (7.5% and 53.8%, respectively) (p < 0.05). This study suggests that dairy as part of a daily diet plays an important role in growth and supports a healthy vitamin A and vitamin D status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dairy Products)

14 pages, 3172 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Glucose or -Fructose Diet Cause Changes of the Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Disorders in Mice without Body Weight Change

by Moon Ho Do, Eunjung Lee, Mi-Jin Oh, Yoonsook Kim and Ho-Young Park

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 761; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060761 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 344 | Viewed by 20317

Abstract

High fat diet-induced changes in gut microbiota have been linked to intestinal permeability and metabolic endotoxemia, which is related to metabolic disorders. However, the influence of a high-glucose (HGD) or high-fructose (HFrD) diet on gut microbiota is largely unknown. We performed changes of [...] Read more.

High fat diet-induced changes in gut microbiota have been linked to intestinal permeability and metabolic endotoxemia, which is related to metabolic disorders. However, the influence of a high-glucose (HGD) or high-fructose (HFrD) diet on gut microbiota is largely unknown. We performed changes of gut microbiota in HGD- or HFrD-fed C57BL/6J mice by 16S rRNA analysis. Gut microbiota-derived endotoxin-induced metabolic disorders were evaluated by glucose and insulin tolerance test, gut permeability, Western blot and histological analysis. We found that the HGD and HFrD groups had comparatively higher blood glucose and endotoxin levels, fat mass, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance without changes in bodyweight. The HGD- and HFrD-fed mice lost gut microbial diversity, characterized by a lower proportion of Bacteroidetes and a markedly increased proportion of Proteobacteria. Moreover, the HGD and HFrD groups had increased gut permeability due to alterations to the tight junction proteins caused by gut inflammation. Hepatic inflammation and lipid accumulation were also markedly increased in the HGD and HFrD groups. High levels of glucose or fructose in the diet regulate the gut microbiota and increase intestinal permeability, which precedes the development of metabolic endotoxemia, inflammation, and lipid accumulation, ultimately leading to hepatic steatosis and normal-weight obesity. Full article

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13 pages, 3032 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Diet Supplementation with Lactobacillus paracasei K71 Prevents Age-Related Cognitive Decline in Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Prone 8

by Henry M. Corpuz, Saki Ichikawa, Misa Arimura, Toshihiro Mihara, Takehisa Kumagai, Takakazu Mitani, Soichiro Nakamura and Shigeru Katayama

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060762 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 8215

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the suppressive effect of long-term diet supplementation with Lactobacillus strains on cognitive decline in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. For 43 weeks, fourteen-week-old female SAMP8 mice were fed a standard diet containing 0.05% (w/ [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess the suppressive effect of long-term diet supplementation with Lactobacillus strains on cognitive decline in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. For 43 weeks, fourteen-week-old female SAMP8 mice were fed a standard diet containing 0.05% (w/w) Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei 327 (L. 327) or Lactobacillusparacasei K71 (L. K71) derived from rice grains and sake lees, respectively. SAMP8 mice that were fed a L. K71-supplemented diet had better cognitive performance compared with the control and L. 327 groups in the Barnes maze and passive avoidance tests. An ELISA analysis revealed that the levels of serotonin were elevated in the serum and brain tissue of L. K71-fed mice. The protein expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), and phosphorylated CREB were evaluated using western blot. Long-term administration of L. K71 resulted in increased protein expression of BDNF and CREB phosphorylation in the hippocampus. These results suggest that prolonged intake of a diet supplemented with a Lactobacillus strain derived from sake lees may prevent age-dependent cognitive decline by upregulating BDNF expression in the hippocampus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Aging and Gut-Brain Axis)

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15 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amelioration of Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats Pretreated with Phycobiliproteins of Arthrospira (Spirulina) Maxima

by Oscar Guzmán-Gómez, Rosa Virginia García-Rodríguez, Lucía Quevedo-Corona, Ricardo Pérez-Pastén-Borja, Nora Lilia Rivero-Ramírez, Emmanuel Ríos-Castro, Salud Pérez-Gutiérrez, Julia Pérez-Ramos and Germán Alberto Chamorro-Cevallos

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060763 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 82 | Viewed by 7741

Abstract

Phycobiliproteins of Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima have attracted attention because of their potential therapeutic antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to assess the possible antiulcerogenic activity of these phycobiliproteins (ExPhy) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. To explore the possible [...] Read more.

Phycobiliproteins of Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima have attracted attention because of their potential therapeutic antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to assess the possible antiulcerogenic activity of these phycobiliproteins (ExPhy) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. To explore the possible mechanisms of action, we examined antioxidant defense enzymes (e.g., catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase), as well as the level of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and the histopathological changes in the gastric mucosa. Intragastric administration of ExPhy (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight) significantly lowered the ulcer index value compared to the ulcer control group (p < 0.05). The greatest protection was provided by the concentration of 400 mg/kg. The histological study supported the observed gastroprotective activity of ExPhy, showing a reduced inflammatory response. Moreover, the alcohol-induced decrease in stomach antioxidant enzyme activity found in the ulcer control group was prevented by ExPhy pretreatment. Furthermore, ExPhy reversed the ethanol-induced increase in lipid peroxidation. In summary, the antiulcerogenic potential of ExPhy may be due, at least in part, to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Bioactive Peptides on Human Health)

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11 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of Different Nutritional Assessment Tools in Predicting Prognosis of Patients with Soft Tissue Spindle-Cell Sarcomas

by Hiromi Sasaki, Satoshi Nagano, Setsuro Komiya, Noboru Taniguchi and Takao Setoguchi

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060765 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4311

Abstract

Predicting outcomes in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is challenging. To improve these predictions, we retrospectively analyzed common nutritional assessment systems, including Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and controlling nutritional (CONUT) score [...] Read more.

Predicting outcomes in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is challenging. To improve these predictions, we retrospectively analyzed common nutritional assessment systems, including Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and controlling nutritional (CONUT) score against outcomes in 103 patients with STS, of whom 15 (14.6%) died within 1 year of diagnosis. GPS, GNRI, NLR, PLR, and CONUT scores significantly differed between patients who died within one year and patients who lived longer. Binomial logistic regression analysis showed that male sex, older age at diagnosis, higher GPS, higher stage, and unresectable STS were risk factors for death within a year of diagnosis. Overall survival was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards models, which correlated higher NLR, higher PLR, larger maximum diameter of tumor, higher stage, and unresectable STS with poor prognosis. We next examined prognostic factors in the 93 patients with resectable STS, and found male sex, higher GPS, and higher stage were correlated with poor prognosis in these patients. Our findings suggest that GPS, NLR, and PLR are simple predictors of outcome in patients with STS. Nutritional therapies might improve their GPS and prognosis. Full article

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13 pages, 1057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Daidzein Supplementation on Reproductive Performance, Serum Hormones, and Reproductive-Related Genes in Rats

by Qiqi Zhang, Daiwen Chen, Bing Yu, Xiangbing Mao, Zhiqing Huang, Jie Yu, Junqiu Luo, Ping Zheng, Yuheng Luo and Jun He

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060766 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4030

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary daidzein supplementation on reproductive performance in rats. A total of twenty-four female Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated to two groups and fed either with a basal diet (CON) or basal [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary daidzein supplementation on reproductive performance in rats. A total of twenty-four female Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated to two groups and fed either with a basal diet (CON) or basal diet containing 50 mg/kg daidzein (DAI) from gestation until delivery stage. The results show that daidzein supplementation significantly increased the total litter weight and the total viable newborn weight (p < 0.05). Interestingly, daidzein supplementation acutely elevated the concentrations of serum estrogen, progesterone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (p < 0.01) after the maternal rats’ delivery. The concentrations of serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) were also significantly higher in the DAI maternal rats than in the CON maternal rats (p < 0.05). Moreover, daidzein significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in maternal rats’ sera and in newborns (p < 0.05) and elevated the concentration of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in both the maternal rats’ sera and their ovaries (p < 0.05). Importantly, daidzein supplementation significantly elevated the expression levels of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) and NR5A2 genes in maternal rats’ ovaries (p < 0.05) and downregulated the expression level of prolactin receptor (PRLR) in newborns (p < 0.05). These results suggest that dietary daidzein supplementation improves reproductive performance and fetal development in rats, which is associated with changes in serum hormones, tissue antioxidant capacity, and expression levels of reproductive-related genes, both in maternal rats and their offspring. Full article

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12 pages, 692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association between Mediterranean Diet and the Risk of Falls and Physical Function Indices in Older Type 2 Diabetic People Varies by Age

by Sigal Tepper, Amit Alter Sivashensky, Danit Rivkah Shahar, Diklah Geva and Tali Cukierman-Yaffe

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060767 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5232

Abstract

Background and Aims: Diabetes and dysglycemia increase the risk of frailty and decreased physical abilities. Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) may reduce this risk. We hypothesized that adherence to the MD is associated with physical function in older type-2 diabetic patients and [...] Read more.

Background and Aims: Diabetes and dysglycemia increase the risk of frailty and decreased physical abilities. Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) may reduce this risk. We hypothesized that adherence to the MD is associated with physical function in older type-2 diabetic patients and that the association is stratified by age. Methods and Results: We recruited type-2 diabetes patients aged >60 years at the Center for Successful Aging with Diabetes at Sheba Medical Center. Health status and demographic data were obtained from medical records. Food Frequency Questionnaire was used for nutritional assessment and calculation of MD score. Physical function indices were determined by a physiotherapist and included: Berg Balance test, Timed Get-Up-and-Go, 6-min walk (6 MW), 10-m walk (10 MW), Four Square Step Test, 30-s chair stand and Grip strength, and activities and instrumental activities of daily living. Among 117 participants (age 70.6 ± 6.5), high adherence to MD was associated with better score on functional tests (low vs. high MD adherence: 9.7% vs. 25%, ANOVA p = 0.02). A significant age by MD interaction was found: a higher adherence to MD was associated with a better 6 MW (low vs. high: 387 ± 35 m vs. 483 ± 26 m; p = 0.001) and higher 10 MW (low vs. high: 1.8 ± 0.16 m/s vs. 2.0 ± 0.13 m/s; p = 0.02) in participants aged >75 years. These associations remained significant after controlling for gender, age, BMI, and physical activity. Conclusion: In the current study, we showed relationships between strength, physical performance, and MD among older diabetic patients. Future studies are needed to confirm this association and establish temporal relationships. Full article

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14 pages, 321 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trimester-Specific Dietary Intakes in a Sample of French-Canadian Pregnant Women in Comparison with National Nutritional Guidelines

by Claudia Savard, Simone Lemieux, S. John Weisnagel, Bénédicte Fontaine-Bisson, Claudia Gagnon, Julie Robitaille and Anne-Sophie Morisset

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060768 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 8745 | Correction

Abstract

Diet during pregnancy greatly impacts health outcomes. This study aims to measure changes in dietary intakes throughout trimesters and to assess pregnant women’s dietary intakes in comparison with current Canadian nutritional recommendations. Seventy-nine pregnant women were recruited and completed, within each trimester, three [...] Read more.

Diet during pregnancy greatly impacts health outcomes. This study aims to measure changes in dietary intakes throughout trimesters and to assess pregnant women’s dietary intakes in comparison with current Canadian nutritional recommendations. Seventy-nine pregnant women were recruited and completed, within each trimester, three Web-based 24-h dietary recalls and one Web questionnaire on supplement use. Dietary intakes from food, with and without supplements, were compared to nutritional recommendations throughout pregnancy. Energy and macronutrient intakes remained stable throughout pregnancy. A majority of women exceeded their energy and protein requirements in the first trimester, and fat intakes as a percentage of energy intakes were above recommendations for more than half of the women in all trimesters. Supplement use increased dietary intakes of most vitamins and minerals, but 20% of women still had inadequate total vitamin D intakes and most women had excessive folic acid intakes. This study showed that pregnant women did not increase their energy intakes throughout pregnancy as recommended. Furthermore, although prenatal supplementation reduces the risk of inadequate intake for most micronutrients, there is still a risk of excessive folic acid and insufficient vitamin D intake, which needs further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micronutrients Intake and Status during Pregnancy and Lactation)

10 pages, 1102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bolus Ingestion of Whey Protein Immediately Post-Exercise Does Not Influence Rehydration Compared to Energy-Matched Carbohydrate Ingestion

by Gethin H. Evans, Lewis Mattin, Isabelle Ireland, William Harrison, Adora M. W. Yau, Victoria McIver, Tristan Pocock, Elizabeth Sheader and Lewis J. James

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060769 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6503

Abstract

Whey protein is a commonly ingested nutritional supplement amongst athletes and regular exercisers; however, its role in post-exercise rehydration remains unclear. Eight healthy male and female participants completed two experimental trials involving the ingestion of 35 g of whey protein (WP) or maltodextrin [...] Read more.

Whey protein is a commonly ingested nutritional supplement amongst athletes and regular exercisers; however, its role in post-exercise rehydration remains unclear. Eight healthy male and female participants completed two experimental trials involving the ingestion of 35 g of whey protein (WP) or maltodextrin (MD) at the onset of a rehydration period, followed by ingestion of water to a volume equivalent to 150% of the amount of body mass lost during exercise in the heat. The gastric emptying rates of the solutions were measured using ¹³C breath tests. Recovery was monitored for a further 3 h by the collection of blood and urine samples. The time taken to empty half of the initial solution (T_1/2) was different between the trials (WP = 65.5 ± 11.4 min; MD = 56.7 ± 6.3 min; p = 0.05); however, there was no difference in cumulative urine volume throughout the recovery period (WP = 1306 ± 306 mL; MD = 1428 ± 443 mL; p = 0.314). Participants returned to net negative fluid balance 2 h after the recovery period with MD and 3 h with WP. The results of this study suggest that whey protein empties from the stomach at a slower rate than MD; however, this does not seem to exert any positive or negative effects on the maintenance of fluid balance in the post-exercise period. Full article

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9 pages, 1332 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Cholesterol, Lipid Levels, and Cardiovascular Risk among Adults with Diabetes or Impaired Fasting Glucose in the Framingham Offspring Study

by Hsuan-Ping Lin, Siyouneh Baghdasarian, Martha R. Singer, Melanie M. Mott, M. Loring Bradlee, Richard T. Pickering and Lynn L. Moore

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060770 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6854

Abstract

Previous recommendations to limit dietary cholesterol intake have been eliminated for most adults. Questions remain about whether dietary cholesterol has adverse cardiovascular effects among individuals with impaired fasting glucose or diabetes (IFG/T2DM). We used data for 993 adults (40.9% female), ages 35–<65 years, [...] Read more.

Previous recommendations to limit dietary cholesterol intake have been eliminated for most adults. Questions remain about whether dietary cholesterol has adverse cardiovascular effects among individuals with impaired fasting glucose or diabetes (IFG/T2DM). We used data for 993 adults (40.9% female), ages 35–<65 years, with prevalent IFG/T2DM in the prospective Framingham Offspring Study to address this question. Dietary cholesterol was assessed using 3-day diet records at exams 3 and 5 and used to classify subjects into sex-specific tertiles of mean cholesterol intake. Outcomes included fasting lipid levels over 20 years and incident cardiovascular disease (CVD). Statistical analyses included repeated measures mixed regression models and Cox proportional hazards models to adjust for confounding. Among adults with T2DM/IFG, there was no consistent association between dietary cholesterol intake and fasting low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), LDL/HDL ratio, or triglycerides over 20 years of follow-up. In longitudinal analyses, the adjusted hazard ratio for CVD in the highest (vs. lowest) sex-specific tertile of cholesterol intake was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.90). These analyses provide no evidence of an adverse association between dietary cholesterol and serum lipid levels or atherosclerotic CVD risk among adults with prevalent IFG/T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Cholesterol:Is It Related to Chronic Disease)

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10 pages, 601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Cholesterol Intake and Sources among U.S Adults: Results from National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), 2001–2014

by Zhe Xu, Scott T. McClure and Lawrence J. Appel

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060771 - 14 Jun 2018

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 10141

Abstract

The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that individuals should minimize their dietary cholesterol intake. However, current dietary cholesterol intake and its food sources have not been well-characterized. We examined dietary cholesterol intake by age, sex, race, and food sources using 24-h dietary [...] Read more.

The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that individuals should minimize their dietary cholesterol intake. However, current dietary cholesterol intake and its food sources have not been well-characterized. We examined dietary cholesterol intake by age, sex, race, and food sources using 24-h dietary recall data from a nationally representative sample of 5047 adults aged 20 years or older who participated in NHANES (2013–2014 survey cycle). We also reported trends in cholesterol intake across the past seven NHANES surveys. Mean dietary cholesterol intake was 293 mg/day (348 mg/day for men and 242 mg/day for women) in the 2013–2014 survey cycle; 39% of adults had dietary cholesterol intake above 300 mg/day (46% for men and 28% for women). Meat, eggs, grain products, and milk were the highest four food sources of cholesterol, contributing to 96% of the total consumption. Both average cholesterol intake and food source varied by age, sex, and race (each p < 0.05). Mean cholesterol intake of the overall population had been relatively constant at ~290 mg/day from 2001–2002 to 2013–2014 (p-trend = 0.98). These results should inform public health efforts in implementing dietary guidelines and tailoring dietary recommendations. Full article

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15 pages, 3277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nobiletin Inhibits CD36-Dependent Tumor Angiogenesis, Migration, Invasion, and Sphere Formation Through the Cd36/Stat3/Nf-Κb Signaling Axis

by Nipin Sp, Dong Young Kang, Doh Hoon Kim, Jong Hwan Park, Hyo Gun Lee, Hye Jee Kim, Pramod Darvin, Yeong-Min Park and Young Mok Yang

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060772 - 15 Jun 2018

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 8121

Abstract

Targeted cancer therapy with natural compounds is more effective than nontargeted therapy. Nobiletin is a flavonoid derived from citrus peel that has anticancer activity. Cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) is a member of the class B scavenger receptor family that is involved in [...] Read more.

Targeted cancer therapy with natural compounds is more effective than nontargeted therapy. Nobiletin is a flavonoid derived from citrus peel that has anticancer activity. Cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) is a member of the class B scavenger receptor family that is involved in importing fatty acids into cells. CD36 plays a role in tumor angiogenesis by binding to its ligand, thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), and then interacting with transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1). CD36 is implicated in tumor metastasis through its roles in fatty acid metabolism. This study investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying nobiletin’s anticancer activity by characterizing its interactions with CD36 as the target molecule. We hypothesize that the anti-angiogenic activity of nobiletin involving its regulation of CD36 via signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) rather than through TSP-1. Gene analysis identified a Gamma interferon activation site (GAS) element in the CD36 gene promoter that acts as a STAT3 binding site, an interaction that was confirmed by ChIP assay. STAT3 interacts with nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), suggesting that nobiletin also acts through the CD36/ (STAT3)/NF-κB signaling axis. Nobiletin inhibited CD36-dependent breast cancer cell migration and invasion as well as CD36-mediated tumor sphere formation. Taken together, these results suggest that nobiletin inhibits cancer stem cells in multiple ways. Full article

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16 pages, 598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dose-Dependent Effects of Multispecies Probiotic Supplementation on the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) Level and Cardiometabolic Profile in Obese Postmenopausal Women: A 12-Week Randomized Clinical Trial

by Monika Szulińska, Igor Łoniewski, Saskia Van Hemert, Magdalena Sobieska and Paweł Bogdański

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060773 - 15 Jun 2018

Cited by 158 | Viewed by 13844

Abstract

During the postmenopausal period, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is increased in many obese women and is associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile and a sub-chronic low-grade systemic inflammation caused by a gut barrier permeability dysfunction. Here, we tested whether administration of two [...] Read more.

During the postmenopausal period, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is increased in many obese women and is associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile and a sub-chronic low-grade systemic inflammation caused by a gut barrier permeability dysfunction. Here, we tested whether administration of two different dosages of the multispecies probiotic Ecologic^® Barrier influenced the cardiometabolic biochemical parameters and lipopolysaccharide levels, the latter used as a marker of increased gut permeability in obese postmenopausal women. A total of 81 obese Caucasian postmenopausal women participated in the trial. The subjects were randomly assigned to three groups that received a placebo, a low dose (LD) (2.5 × 10⁹ colony forming units (CFU) per day), or a high dose (HD) (1 × 10¹⁰ CFU per day) of lyophilisate powder containing live multispecies probiotic bacteria. The probiotic supplement was administered each day in two equal portions for 12 weeks. We found significant (p < 0.05) favorable changes (mostly large or medium effects) in the evaluated parameters in both the HD and LD groups but not in the placebo group. In the HD group, lipopolysaccharide, waist, fat mass, subcutaneous fat, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose, insulin, and insulin-resistant index (HOMA-IR) were improved. Similar changes were observed in the LD group, except for lipopolysaccharide, uric acid, triglycerides, and glucose levels. Additionally, significant differences were observed in both groups in terms of fat percentage and visceral fat. When the mean changes were compared between the three groups, statistically significant differences in lipopolysaccharide levels, uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR were found. Post hoc tests revealed significant differences in the mean changes (mostly medium effects) between the HD and LD groups for uric acid, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR. In the 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind intervention, we observed that supplementation with the multispecies probiotic Ecologic^® Barrier favorably affected the risk factors in a dose-dependent manner, showing beneficial effects on the cardiometabolic parameters and gut permeability of the patients. Our results suggest that this product can be effective in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in obese postmenopausal women. Full article

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14 pages, 636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Habitual Fructose Intake Relates to Insulin Sensitivity and Fatty Liver Index in Recent-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Patients and Individuals without Diabetes

by Katharina S. Weber, Marie-Christine Simon, Klaus Strassburger, Daniel F. Markgraf, Anette E. Buyken, Julia Szendroedi, Karsten Müssig, Michael Roden and GDS Group

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060774 - 15 Jun 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7877

Abstract

The association between the amount and sources of fructose intake with insulin sensitivity and liver fat needs further elucidation. This study aimed at examining whether habitual intake of sucrose plus non-sucrose bound as well as of non-sucrose bound fructose (total fructose, fruit-derived, juice-derived, [...] Read more.

The association between the amount and sources of fructose intake with insulin sensitivity and liver fat needs further elucidation. This study aimed at examining whether habitual intake of sucrose plus non-sucrose bound as well as of non-sucrose bound fructose (total fructose, fruit-derived, juice-derived, sugar sweetened beverages (SSB)-derived fructose) is cross-sectionally associated with insulin sensitivity and fatty liver index (FLI). Fructose intake was estimated using the EPIC food frequency questionnaire from 161 participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the ongoing German Diabetes Study (GDS) (age 53 ± 9 years; HbA1c 6.4 ± 0.9%) and 62 individuals without diabetes (CON) (47 ± 14 years; 5.3 ± 0.3%). Peripheral (M-value) and hepatic insulin resistance were assessed by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps with stable isotope dilution. FLI was calculated based on body mass index, waist circumference, triglyceride and gamma glutamyl transferase concentrations. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed. A doubling of SSB-derived sucrose plus non-sucrose bound as well as of non-sucrose bound fructose intake was independently associated with a reduction of the M-value by −2.6% (−4.9; −0.2) and −2.7% (−5.2; −0.1) among T2D, respectively, with an increase in the odds of fatty liver by 16% and 17%, respectively among T2D (all p < 0.05). Doubling fruit-derived sucrose plus non-sucrose bound fructose intake independently related to a reduction in the odds of fatty liver by 13% (p = 0.033) among T2D. Moderate SSB-derived fructose intake may detrimentally affect peripheral insulin sensitivity, whereas fruit-derived fructose intake appeared beneficial for liver fat content. Full article

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17 pages, 1859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Consumption on Markers of CVD Risk

by Liangkui Li, Georg Lietz, Wendy Bal, Anthony Watson, Ben Morfey and Chris Seal

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060777 - 16 Jun 2018

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 12818

Abstract

A number of epidemiological studies have suggested that diets rich in whole grains are linked to lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and mortality. Quinoa, a pseudo-cereal, is included in the “whole grain” category but the effects of quinoa consumption in humans is not [...] Read more.

A number of epidemiological studies have suggested that diets rich in whole grains are linked to lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and mortality. Quinoa, a pseudo-cereal, is included in the “whole grain” category but the effects of quinoa consumption in humans is not widely studied. Our aim was to undertake a dietary intervention study to investigate the effects of daily consumption of quinoa-enriched bread (providing 20 g quinoa flour) on CVD risk markers compared with a 100% refined wheat bread control. Thirty-seven healthy overweight men (35–70 years, body mass index >25 kg/m²) completed a 4-week cross-over intervention, separated by a 4-week washout period. Fasting blood samples were collected at the beginning and end of each intervention period. Continuous glucose monitoring was undertaken at the end of each intervention period. After 4 weeks of intervention, blood glucose and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were significantly lower than baseline in both groups but there was no difference between quinoa and control. Anthropometric measures and other blood metabolites were not different between the two treatments. The cumulative area under the blood glucose curve for the last 4 days of the quinoa intervention tended to be lower than the first 4 days of wash-out (p = 0.054), and was significantly lower than the corresponding period of the wheat treatment (p = 0.039). In conclusion, daily consumption of quinoa in this short-term intervention appears to modify glucose response, but has minimal effects on other CVD risk biomarkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Whole Grains and Human Health)

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15 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Influence on Body Fluid Acid-Base and Volume Balance: The Deleterious “Norm” Furthers and Cloaks Subclinical Pathophysiology

by Qi Qian

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060778 - 16 Jun 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 13258

Abstract

The popular modern diet, characterized by an excess of animal protein and salt but insufficient in fruits, vegetables and water, is a poor fit for human physiological and homeostatic regulatory systems. Sustained net acid and sodium retention, coupled with an insufficient intake of [...] Read more.

The popular modern diet, characterized by an excess of animal protein and salt but insufficient in fruits, vegetables and water, is a poor fit for human physiological and homeostatic regulatory systems. Sustained net acid and sodium retention, coupled with an insufficient intake of cardiovascular protective potassium-rich foods and hydration in the modern diet can give rise to debilitating chronic organ dysfunction and ultimately, mortality. This holds true, especially in our aging population who are already facing inevitable decline in organ functional reserve. Importantly, in most cases, despite the mismatch and adverse effects to multiple organ systems, plasma electrolyte and acid-base parameters can, on the surface, be maintained within a “normal” reference range, primarily by activating (often maximally activating) compensatory homeostatic mechanisms. These diet-induced effects can thus be clinically silent for decades. Embodied in the chronic corrective homeostatic processes, however, are real risks for multiorgan damage. According to the Dietary Guideline Advisory Committee (DGAC), half of American adults have one or more chronic diseases that are preventable with dietary modification. Here, homeostasis of body fluid acid-base, sodium, potassium and water is examined. Our current dietary habits and their required regulatory adaptation, maladaptation and relevant physiology and pathophysiology are discussed. A framework of dietary modifications to avoid a propensity for maladaptation and thus lowers the risks of common modern diseases (primary prevention) and minimizes the risk of chronic and age-related disease progression (secondary prevention) is emphasized. Although there are other variables at play, a key to restoring the all-important dietary potassium to sodium ratio is greater consumption of vegetables/fruits and adopting salt temperance. Dietary and nutritional optimization is an under-emphasized area of health care that has an enormous potential to temper the epidemics of prevalent chronic diseases in modern society and improve population health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional Prevention and Acid Base Status)

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13 pages, 2053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mediterranean Diet Score: Associations with Metabolic Products of the Intestinal Microbiome, Carotid Plaque Burden, and Renal Function

by Michael Pignanelli, Caroline Just, Chrysi Bogiatzi, Vincent Dinculescu, Gregory B. Gloor, Emma Allen-Vercoe, Gregor Reid, Bradley L. Urquhart, Kelsey N. Ruetz, Thomas J. Velenosi and J. David Spence

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060779 - 16 Jun 2018

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7215

Abstract

Metabolic products of the intestinal microbiome such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) that accumulate in renal failure (gut-derived uremic toxins, GDUTs) affect atherosclerosis and increase cardiovascular risk. We hypothesized that patients on a Mediterranean diet and those consuming lower amounts of dietary precursors would [...] Read more.

Metabolic products of the intestinal microbiome such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) that accumulate in renal failure (gut-derived uremic toxins, GDUTs) affect atherosclerosis and increase cardiovascular risk. We hypothesized that patients on a Mediterranean diet and those consuming lower amounts of dietary precursors would have lower levels of GDUTs. Patients attending vascular prevention clinics completed a Harvard Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and had plasma levels of TMAO, p-cresylsulfate, hippuric acid, indoxyl sulfate, p-cresyl glucuronide, phenyl acetyl glutamine, and phenyl sulfate measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Carotid plaque burden was measured by ultrasound; CKD-Epi equations were used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate. In total, 276 patients completed the study. Even moderate renal function significantly increased plasma GDUTs, which were significantly associated with higher carotid plaque burden. There was no significant difference in plasma levels of any GDUT associated with a Mediterranean diet score or with intake of dietary precursors. In omnivorous patients with vascular disease, the intake of dietary precursors of intestinal metabolites or adherence to a Mediterranean diet did not change plasma GDUT. Approaches other than diet, such as probiotics and repopulation of the intestinal microbiome, may be required to mitigate the adverse effects of GDUTs. Full article

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23 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Study Examining Obesity Risk in Non-Obese Mothers of Young Children Using a Socioecological Approach

by Jennifer Martin-Biggers, Virginia Quick, Kim Spaccarotella and Carol Byrd-Bredbenner

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060781 - 17 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4929

Abstract

This cross-sectional, exploratory study aimed to (1) develop an obesity risk score using a comprehensive set of variables assessing mothers’ intrapersonal weight-related characteristics and those of their homes’ interpersonal and physical environments, and (2) determine how weight-related characteristics differ by obesity risk level. [...] Read more.

This cross-sectional, exploratory study aimed to (1) develop an obesity risk score using a comprehensive set of variables assessing mothers’ intrapersonal weight-related characteristics and those of their homes’ interpersonal and physical environments, and (2) determine how weight-related characteristics differ by obesity risk level. U.S. mothers (N = 550) of preschool-aged children completed an online survey that assessed maternal self-report weight status, sociodemographics, health-related characteristics, and maternal intrapersonal and their homes’ interpersonal and physical environment weight-related characteristics. Binomial logistic regression analysis identified variables significantly associated with obesity. Scores for all obesity risk variables were summed to create a weighted obesity risk score for non-obese participants (n = 386). Analysis of variance and Tukey post-hoc tests determined how non-obese mothers’ sociodemographic, health-related, and intrapersonal and their homes’ interpersonal and physical environment characteristics differed among obesity risk score tertiles. Results revealed that eight variables explained 53 percent of maternal obesity risk, including African American race, lower education level, more children in household, poorer maternal health, higher weight teasing history, higher body dissatisfaction, primary relative with obesity, and greater concern about children’s overweight risk. Non-obese mothers in the highest obesity risk tertile had greater food insecurity risk, lower family affluence, worse sleep quality, less fruit/vegetable availability, and reported less frequent modeling of healthy behaviors and more family conflict. In conclusion, eight characteristics that explained more than half of the risk for obesity in non-obese mothers of young children, may help healthcare professionals identify mothers at increased risk of obesity and offer preventive care early. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eating Disorders and Obesity: The Challenge for Our Times)

14 pages, 2362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Whey Protein Concentrate WPC-80 Improves Antioxidant Defense Systems in the Salivary Glands of 14-Month Wistar Rats

by Mateusz Falkowski, Mateusz Maciejczyk, Tomasz Koprowicz, Bożena Mikołuć, Anna Milewska, Anna Zalewska and Halina Car

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060782 - 17 Jun 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5684

Abstract

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is characterized by powerful antioxidant properties, but its effect on redox homeostasis of salivary glands of aging organisms is still unknown. In this study, we are the first to evaluate the antioxidant barrier of salivary glands of 14-month Wistar [...] Read more.

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is characterized by powerful antioxidant properties, but its effect on redox homeostasis of salivary glands of aging organisms is still unknown. In this study, we are the first to evaluate the antioxidant barrier of salivary glands of 14-month Wistar rats fed WPC-80. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) as well as concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) are estimated in the submandibular and parotid glands of rats administered WPC-80 intragastrically for a period of 7 and 14 days. We demonstrate a significant increase in GSH, GPx and SOD in the salivary glands of rats fed WPC-80 for 14 days and a significant increase in TAS, GPx and SOD in the parotid glands of rats fed WPC-80 for 7 days compared to control rats. The beneficial effects of WPC-80 on salivary glands are also demonstrated by lower TOS and OSI in the parotid glands of rats fed WPC-80 compared to the submandibular glands. In summary, we demonstrate that WPC-80 improves redox homeostasis in salivary glands, particularly in the parotid glands of old rats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Intake in Older Adults and Elderly People)

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13 pages, 1348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory and Radical Scavenging Properties of Chinotto (Citrus myrtifolia Raf.) Essential Oils

by Pierluigi Plastina, Astari Apriantini, Jocelijn Meijerink, Renger Witkamp, Bartolo Gabriele and Alessia Fazio

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060783 - 18 Jun 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7794

Abstract

Chinotto (Citrus myrtifolia Raf.) is a widely diffused plant native from China and its fruits have a wide-spread use in confectionary and drinks. Remarkably, only little has been reported thus far on its bioactive properties, in contrast to those of the taxonomically [...] Read more.

Chinotto (Citrus myrtifolia Raf.) is a widely diffused plant native from China and its fruits have a wide-spread use in confectionary and drinks. Remarkably, only little has been reported thus far on its bioactive properties, in contrast to those of the taxonomically related bergamot (Citrus bergamia Risso). The present study aimed to investigate potential in vitro anti-inflammatory and radical scavenging properties of chinotto essential oils (CEOs) and to establish to what extent their composition and bioactivities are dependent on maturation. Essential oil from half ripe chinotto (CEO2) reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of inflammatory genes, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cytokines, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and chemokine monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264,7 macrophages. Limonene, linalool, linalyl acetate, and γ-terpinene were found to be the main components in CEO2. Moreover, CEO2 showed high radical scavenging activity measured as Trolox equivalents (TE) against both 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS). These findings show that chinotto essential oil represents a valuable part of this fruit and warrants further in vivo studies to validate its anti-inflammatory potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammation- An Ancient Battle. What are the Roles of Nutrients?)

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12 pages, 2853 KiB

Open AccessArticle

TRPM6 is Essential for Magnesium Uptake and Epithelial Cell Function in the Colon

by Francesca Luongo, Giuseppe Pietropaolo, Mathieu Gautier, Isabelle Dhennin-Duthille, Halima Ouadid-Ahidouch, Federica I. Wolf and Valentina Trapani

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060784 - 18 Jun 2018

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7575

Abstract

Intestinal magnesium (Mg) uptake is essential for systemic Mg homeostasis. Colon cells express the two highly homologous transient receptor potential melastatin type (TRPM) 6 and 7 Mg²⁺ channels, but their precise function and the consequences of their mutual interaction are not clear. [...] Read more.

Intestinal magnesium (Mg) uptake is essential for systemic Mg homeostasis. Colon cells express the two highly homologous transient receptor potential melastatin type (TRPM) 6 and 7 Mg²⁺ channels, but their precise function and the consequences of their mutual interaction are not clear. To explore the functional role of TRPM6 and TRPM7 in the colon, we used human colon cell lines that innately express both channels and analyzed the functional consequences of genetic knocking-down, by RNA interference, or pharmacological inhibition, by NS8593, of either channel. TRPM7 silencing caused an increase in Mg²⁺ influx, and correspondingly enhanced cell proliferation and migration, while downregulation of TRPM6 did not affect significantly either Mg²⁺ influx or cell proliferation. Exposure to the specific TRPM6/7 inhibitor NS8593 reduced Mg²⁺ influx, and consequently cell proliferation and migration, but Mg supplementation rescued the inhibition. We propose a model whereby in colon cells the functional Mg²⁺ channel at the plasma membrane may consist of both TRPM7 homomers and TRPM6/7 heteromers. A different expression ratio between the two proteins may result in different functional properties. Altogether, our findings confirm that TRPM6 cannot be replaced by TRPM7, and that TRPM6/7 complexes and TRPM6/7-mediated Mg²⁺ influx are indispensable in human epithelial colon cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnesium Intake and Human Health)

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13 pages, 591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adequacy of Some Locally Produced Complementary Foods Marketed in Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Senegal

by Sara Antonio Dimaria, Hélène Schwartz, Christèle Icard-Vernière, Christian Picq, Noël Marie Zagre and Claire Mouquet-Rivier

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060785 - 18 Jun 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5625

Abstract

Adequate complementary foods are needed to help reduce the high prevalence of stunting in children in many Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs). We assessed the availability, affordability, and nutrient adequacy of imported and locally produced processed cereal-based blends (PCBBs), marketed as complementary [...] Read more.

Adequate complementary foods are needed to help reduce the high prevalence of stunting in children in many Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs). We assessed the availability, affordability, and nutrient adequacy of imported and locally produced processed cereal-based blends (PCBBs), marketed as complementary food for young children in Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Senegal. In total, 19 local producers and 275 points of sale in the four countries were surveyed to evaluate the quantities and accessibility of PCBBs. In addition, 32 PCBBs were analysed for their nutritional composition and packaging information. The results showed that only 7 out of 32 PCBBs could be classified as nutritionally satisfactory. Access to the products was insufficient in all surveyed settings. At the points of sale, the PCBB market was dominated by imported products, even though two out of four imported PCBBs were not nutritionally satisfactory. Imported PCBBs were two to three times more expensive than locally produced PCBBs. Labelling of the PCBBs was inadequate in many aspects. Technical support should be offered to local PCBB producers to ensure the adequate formulation and supply of an appropriate vitamin and mineral premix. The development of national specific regulations on PCBB composition and labelling is strongly recommended in these countries. Full article

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9 pages, 1626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Acute Malnutrition in Children in Cambodia Requires Both Mid Upper Arm Circumference and Weight-For-Height to Offset Gender Bias of Each Indicator

by Frank Tammo Wieringa, Ludovic Gauthier, Valérie Greffeuille, Somphos Vicheth Som, Marjoleine Amma Dijkhuizen, Arnaud Laillou, Chhoun Chamnan, Jacques Berger and Etienne Poirot

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 786; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060786 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6526

Abstract

Malnutrition remains a serious health problem in Cambodia with over 10% of children less than five years of age suffering from acute malnutrition. In addition to the presence of nutritional edema, two indicators are recommended by the World Health Organization for the diagnosis [...] Read more.

Malnutrition remains a serious health problem in Cambodia with over 10% of children less than five years of age suffering from acute malnutrition. In addition to the presence of nutritional edema, two indicators are recommended by the World Health Organization for the diagnosis of acute malnutrition: weight-for-height Z-scores (WHZ; with acute malnutrition defined as WHZ < −2 Z-score) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC, with acute malnutrition defined as MUAC < 12.5 cm). Earlier, we showed that WHZ and MUAC identified different subgroups of children with acute malnutrition. To explore factors associated with both indicators of acute malnutrition, we analyzed baseline data from a longitudinal study in three provinces in Cambodia: Phnom Penh (capital, urban environment), Kratie (rural province), and Ratanakiri (hilly, rural province). Data was available for 4381 children below 30 months of age. Malnutrition rates were higher in the two rural provinces than in the capital. Although both MUAC and WHZ showed gender bias, with MUAC identifying more girls, and WHZ identifying more boys with acute malnutrition, the gender effect was strongest for MUAC. The gender bias of MUAC diminished with older age, but remained significant up to 30 months of age. Only using both MUAC and WHZ as indicators resulted in gender neutral identification of acute malnutrition. WHZ alone always identified more children with acute malnutrition than MUAC alone. In Phnom Penh, MUAC alone identified only 11% with acute malnutrition in addition to WHZ. To conclude, both MUAC and WHZ showed gender bias in this cohort of Cambodian children. In Cambodia, implementation of a MUAC-only or a WHZ-only program for the identification of acute malnutrition would be unethical as it will lead to many children remaining undiagnosed. Full article

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13 pages, 2296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Exercise Intensity on Gastric Emptying Rate, Appetite and Gut Derived Hormone Responses after Consuming a Standardised Semi-Solid Meal in Healthy Males

by Lewis R. Mattin, Adora M. W. Yau, Victoria McIver, Lewis J. James and Gethin H. Evans

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 787; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060787 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7327

Abstract

This study investigated the acute circulating gut hormone, appetite and gastric emptying rate responses to a semi-solid meal following exercise at different intensities. Twelve men completed three trials in a randomised-crossover design, consisting of continuous cycling at 70%

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O_2Peak (HIGH), [...] Read more.

This study investigated the acute circulating gut hormone, appetite and gastric emptying rate responses to a semi-solid meal following exercise at different intensities. Twelve men completed three trials in a randomised-crossover design, consisting of continuous cycling at 70%

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O_2Peak (HIGH), 40%

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O_2Peak (LOW) or rest (CONTROL). Baseline samples were collected after an overnight fast before undertaking the 60 min exercise or rest period, followed by 30 min rest before consumption of a standardised semi-solid meal (~242 kcal). During the 2 h postprandial period, gastric emptying rate of the meal was examined using the ¹³C-breath test method, appetite was measured using visual analogue scales, and serum concentrations of acylated ghrelin, pancreatic polypeptide, peptide YY, glucagon-like peptide-1, insulin, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids were assessed. Subjective appetite response was not different between trials (p > 0.05). Half emptying time of the meal was 89 ± 13, 82 ± 8 and 94 ± 31 min on CONTROL, LOW and HIGH, respectively (p = 0.247). In healthy un-trained adult males, responses to exercise at intensities of 70% and 40%

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O_2Peak did not differ to a non-exercise control for measurements of subsequent gastric emptying, circulating gut hormone response or appetite. These results suggest that exercise intensity has little effect on post-exercise appetite response to a semi-solid meal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appetite, Metabolism and Obesity)

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10 pages, 527 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Interaction between an ADCY3 Genetic Variant and Two Weight-Lowering Diets Affecting Body Fatness and Body Composition Outcomes Depending on Macronutrient Distribution: A Randomized Trial

by Leticia Goni, Jose Ignacio Riezu-Boj, Fermín I. Milagro, Fernando J. Corrales, Lourdes Ortiz, Marta Cuervo and J. Alfredo Martínez

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060789 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8048

Abstract

The adenylate cyclase 3 (ADCY3) gene is involved in the regulation of several metabolic processes including the development and function of adipose tissue. The effects of the ADCY3 rs10182181 genetic variant on changes in body composition depending on the macronutrient distribution [...] Read more.

The adenylate cyclase 3 (ADCY3) gene is involved in the regulation of several metabolic processes including the development and function of adipose tissue. The effects of the ADCY3 rs10182181 genetic variant on changes in body composition depending on the macronutrient distribution intake after 16 weeks of the dietary intervention were tested. The ADCY3 genetic variant was genotyped in 147 overweight or obese subjects, who were randomly assigned to one of the two diets varying in macronutrient content: a moderately-high-protein diet and a low-fat diet. Anthropometric and body composition measurements (DEXA scan) were recorded. Significant interactions between the ADCY3 genotype and dietary intervention on changes in weight, waist circumference, and body composition were found after adjustment for covariates. Thus, in the moderately-high-protein diet group, the G allele was associated with a lower decrease of fat mass, trunk and android fat, and a greater decrease in lean mass. Conversely, in the low-fat diet group carrying the G allele was associated with a greater decrease in trunk, android, gynoid, and visceral fat. Subjects carrying the G allele of the rs10182181 polymorphism may benefit more in terms of weight loss and improvement of body composition measurements when undertaking a hypocaloric low-fat diet as compared to a moderately-high-protein diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrigenomics)

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12 pages, 1950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Salvianolic Acid A against Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Acute Colitis in Rats

by Kai Wang, Qinqin Yang, Quanxin Ma, Bei Wang, Zhengrui Wan, Minli Chen and Liming Wu

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060791 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 7136

Abstract

Salvianolic acid A (SAA) is an active phenolic acid derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen). To explore whether SAA has a therapeutic effect against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), an acute colitis model was induced in rats by administering 3% dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) [...] Read more.

Salvianolic acid A (SAA) is an active phenolic acid derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen). To explore whether SAA has a therapeutic effect against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), an acute colitis model was induced in rats by administering 3% dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) for one week. SAA in doses of 4 and 8 mg/kg/day was given by tail vein injection during DSS administration. Both dosages of SAA ameliorated the colitis symptoms, with decreases observed in the disease activity index. A high dosage of SAA (8 mg/kg/day) promoted a longer colon length and an improved colonic tissue structure, compared with the DSS-treated rats not receiving SAA. SAA dose-dependently decreased colonic gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, MCP-1 and IL-6). Moreover, a high dosage of SAA protected against DSS-induced damage to tight junctions (TJ) in the rats’ colons, by increasing TJ-related gene expression (ZO-1 and occuldin). Finally, using 16S rRNA phylogenetic sequencing, we found that SAA modulated gut microbiota imbalance during colitis by increasing the gut microbial diversity as well as selectively promoting some probiotic populations, including Akkermansia spp. Our study suggests that SAA is a promising candidate for the treatment of IBD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiome and Human Health)

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22 pages, 2518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intake of Polydextrose Alters Hematology and the Profile of Short Chain Fatty Acids in Partially Gastrectomized Rats

by Mariane Moreira Ramiro Do Carmo, Ulana Chaves Sarmento, Leandro Fontoura Cavalheiro, Anderson Fernandes, Wander Fernando de Oliveira Filiú, Karine De Cássia Freitas Gielow, Deiler Sampaio Costa, Adriana Conceiçon Guercio, Valter Aragão Do Nascimento, Camila Fontoura Acosta Ribeiro, Alinne Pereira De Castro, Cristiano Marcelo Espinola Carvalho, Daiana Novello, Valfredo De Almeida Santos-Junior, Priscila Neder Morato, Jaime Amaya-Farfan, Priscila Aiko Hiane and Elisvânia Freitas Dos Santos

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060792 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5755

Abstract

Polydextrose (PDX) ingestion may increase the intestinal absorption of iron. This study evaluated the effects of 7.5% polydextrose supplementation on markers of iron uptake, transport and storage in partially gastrectomized rats. Half of a batch of 40 male Wistar rats (250 g) underwent [...] Read more.

Polydextrose (PDX) ingestion may increase the intestinal absorption of iron. This study evaluated the effects of 7.5% polydextrose supplementation on markers of iron uptake, transport and storage in partially gastrectomized rats. Half of a batch of 40 male Wistar rats (250 g) underwent Billroth II partial gastrectomy with anterior truncal vagotomy (GXT), while the other half underwent sham gastrectomy (SHAM). At 7 postoperative days, the animals were subdivided into four groups (n = 10): Sham Control and GXT Control (no polydextrose); Sham PDX and GXT PDX (with 7.5% PDX). The animals were euthanized after 60 day of PDX treatment. Organ weight, cecal pH, the characterization and quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), hematological parameters, hepatic iron content and the expression of ferroportin (FPT) in the jejunum, cecum, colon and liver were evaluated. PDX caused changes in the cecum of the supplemented animals, where there was a decrease in pH, increase in cecal wall and marked production of SCFA, especially acetic and propionic acids (p < 0.05). Hepatic iron levels were lower in GXT animals. PDX increased hemoglobin (HGB) values by 29.2% and hematocrit (HCT) by 55.8% in the GXT PDX group compared to the GXT Control group. The GXT PDX group had lower hepatic FPT expression (p < 0.05). PDX led to increased SCFA concentration in the supplemented animals. Considering that SCFAs play a central role in the increasing nutrients uptake, this mechanism may be involved in altering the hematology profile observed in these animals but not enough to reverse iron deficiency anemia in post-gastrectomy rats. Full article

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10 pages, 1302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inulin Supplementation Does Not Reduce Plasma Trimethylamine N-Oxide Concentrations in Individuals at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes

by Mary Elizabeth Baugh, Cortney N. Steele, Christopher J. Angiletta, Cassie M. Mitchell, Andrew P. Neilson, Brenda M. Davy, Matthew W. Hulver and Kevin P. Davy

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060793 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7811

Abstract

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Prebiotic supplementation has been purported to reduce TMAO production, but whether prebiotics reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO levels is unclear. Sedentary, overweight/obese adults at risk [...] Read more.

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Prebiotic supplementation has been purported to reduce TMAO production, but whether prebiotics reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO levels is unclear. Sedentary, overweight/obese adults at risk for T2DM (n = 18) were randomized to consume a standardized diet (55% carbohydrate, 30% fat) with 10 g/day of either an inulin supplement or maltodextrin placebo for 6 weeks. Blood samples were obtained in the fasting state and hourly during a 4-h high-fat challenge meal (820 kcal; 25% carbohydrate, 63% fat; 317.4 mg choline, 62.5 mg betaine, 8.1 mg l-carnitine) before and after the diet. Plasma TMAO and trimethylamine (TMA) moieties (choline, l-carnitine, betaine, and γ-butyrobetaine) were measured using isocratic ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). There were no differences in fasting or postprandial TMAO or TMA moieties between the inulin and placebo groups at baseline (all p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in fasting or postprandial plasma TMAO or TMA moiety concentrations following inulin or placebo. These findings suggest that inulin supplementation for 6 weeks did not reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO in individuals at risk for T2DM. Future studies are needed to identify efficacious interventions that reduce plasma TMAO concentrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiome and Human Health)

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10 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Chinese Preschool Children Eat a Sufficiently Diverse Diet? A Cross-Sectional Study in China

by Hua Jiang, Ai Zhao, Wenzhi Zhao, Shengjie Tan, Jian Zhang, Yumei Zhang and Peiyu Wang

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060794 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5315

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate dietary diversity and its associated factors in Chinese preschoolers and explore whether the daily food consumption of children with different dietary diversity-associated characteristics met recommended dietary amounts. Methods: A cross-sectional study covering seven cities and two [...] Read more.

Background: This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate dietary diversity and its associated factors in Chinese preschoolers and explore whether the daily food consumption of children with different dietary diversity-associated characteristics met recommended dietary amounts. Methods: A cross-sectional study covering seven cities and two villages was conducted and included 697 preschool children aged 3–7 years old. Dietary diversity score (DDS) and DDS 10 were calculated based on 24-h dietary recall. The food-intake differences among children with different DDS 10 predictors were examined. Results: The mean DDS and DDS 10 in Chinese preschool children were 7.4 ± 1.5 (ranged from 3 to 9) and 7.0 ± 3 (ranged from 3 to 9) respectively. Positive predictors of dietary diversity included residing in an urban environment, a higher household expenditure on children’s food, and a higher frequency of eating outside. Food-intake differences existed among the predictors. Conclusions: Education and intervention should be strengthened to improve the dietary diversity of preschool children, especially in rural areas. The overall dietary pattern of children requires attention, which means not only increasing dietary diversity but also avoiding an unbalanced diet. Full article

19 pages, 4033 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personalized Nutrition—Genes, Diet, and Related Interactive Parameters as Predictors of Cancer in Multiethnic Colorectal Cancer Families

by S. Pamela K. Shiao, James Grayson, Amanda Lie and Chong Ho Yu

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060795 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7342

Abstract

To personalize nutrition, the purpose of this study was to examine five key genes in the folate metabolism pathway, and dietary parameters and related interactive parameters as predictors of colorectal cancer (CRC) by measuring the healthy eating index (HEI) in multiethnic families. The [...] Read more.

To personalize nutrition, the purpose of this study was to examine five key genes in the folate metabolism pathway, and dietary parameters and related interactive parameters as predictors of colorectal cancer (CRC) by measuring the healthy eating index (HEI) in multiethnic families. The five genes included methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677 and 1298, methionine synthase (MTR) 2756, methionine synthase reductase (MTRR 66), and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) 19bp, and they were used to compute a total gene mutation score. We included 53 families, 53 CRC patients and 53 paired family friend members of diverse population groups in Southern California. We measured multidimensional data using the ensemble bootstrap forest method to identify variables of importance within domains of genetic, demographic, and dietary parameters to achieve dimension reduction. We then constructed predictive generalized regression (GR) modeling with a supervised machine learning validation procedure with the target variable (cancer status) being specified to validate the results to allow enhanced prediction and reproducibility. The results showed that the CRC group had increased total gene mutation scores compared to the family members (p < 0.05). Using the Akaike’s information criterion and Leave-One-Out cross validation GR methods, the HEI was interactive with thiamine (vitamin B1), which is a new finding for the literature. The natural food sources for thiamine include whole grains, legumes, and some meats and fish which HEI scoring included as part of healthy portions (versus limiting portions on salt, saturated fat and empty calories). Additional predictors included age, as well as gender and the interaction of MTHFR 677 with overweight status (measured by body mass index) in predicting CRC, with the cancer group having more men and overweight cases. The HEI score was significant when split at the median score of 77 into greater or less scores, confirmed through the machine-learning recursive tree method and predictive modeling, although an HEI score of greater than 80 is the US national standard set value for a good diet. The HEI and healthy eating are modifiable factors for healthy living in relation to dietary parameters and cancer prevention, and they can be used for personalized nutrition in the precision-based healthcare era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diet Quality and Health Outcomes)

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13 pages, 5474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant Peptides from Goat Milk Fermented by Lactobacillus casei L61: Preparation, Optimization, and Stability Evaluation in Simulated Gastrointestinal Fluid

by Guowei Shu, Xiaoyu Shi, Li Chen, Jianbo Kou, Jiangpeng Meng and He Chen

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060797 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 6213

Abstract

Antioxidant peptides are currently the focus of many studies, since they eliminate free radicals in the human body without harmful effects. In the present study, Lactobacillus casei L61 was used as a starter culture to ferment goat milk because of its high capacity [...] Read more.

Antioxidant peptides are currently the focus of many studies, since they eliminate free radicals in the human body without harmful effects. In the present study, Lactobacillus casei L61 was used as a starter culture to ferment goat milk because of its high capacity to produce antioxidant peptides. An optimal nutrients formula (casein, casein peptone, glucose, soybean peptone, inulin, calcium lactate, and cysteine) was investigated by Plackett–Burman (P–B) and Box–Behnken (B–B) designs for response surface methodology (RSM). Antioxidant peptides were successively isolated and purified from the fermented goat milk. Furthermore, the stability of the antioxidant peptides was evaluated in a simulated gastrointestinal tract at 37 °C. The results showed that calcium lactate, glucose, and casein peptone significantly affected the antioxidant activity of goat milk. The optimal additive amounts were 0.99% (w/v) calcium lactate, 0.21% (w/v) glucose, and 0.29% (w/v) casein peptone. The hydroxyl free radical scavenging rate increased significantly (p < 0.001) from 56.50 ± 0.57% to 88.01 ± 0.69%; the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging rate increased up to 63.48 ± 1.22% under the optimal conditions (n = 3). Our research provides a fitted mathematical model for antioxidant peptides production. Besides, these antioxidant peptides had great stability during simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Benefits of Fermentation)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

18 pages, 836 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Prevention and Treatment of Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease in Children

by Lorenzo Norsa, Emanuele Nicastro, Angelo Di Giorgio, Florence Lacaille and Lorenzo D’Antiga

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060664 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 8429

Abstract

Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) is a threatening complication for children on long-term parenteral nutrition because of intestinal failure. When progressive and intractable, it may jeopardize intestinal rehabilitation and lead to combined liver and intestinal transplantation. The institution of dedicated intestinal failure centers [...] Read more.

Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) is a threatening complication for children on long-term parenteral nutrition because of intestinal failure. When progressive and intractable, it may jeopardize intestinal rehabilitation and lead to combined liver and intestinal transplantation. The institution of dedicated intestinal failure centers has dramatically decreased the incidence of such complication. IFALD may rapidly fade away if very early management aimed at preventing progression to end-stage liver disease is provided. In this review, we address the etiology and risk factors of IFALD in order to introduce pillars of prevention (nutritional management and catheter-related infections control). The latest evidence of therapeutic strategies, such as medical and surgical treatments, is also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Pediatric Gastroenterology: Selected Papers from SIGENP)

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16 pages, 608 KiB

Open AccessReview

Understanding Eating Behavior during the Transition from Adolescence to Young Adulthood: A Literature Review and Perspective on Future Research Directions

by F. Marijn Stok, Britta Renner, Peter Clarys, Nanna Lien, Jeroen Lakerveld and Tom Deliens

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060667 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 160 | Viewed by 16654

Abstract

Introduction: Eating behavior often becomes unhealthier during the transition from adolescence to young adulthood, but not much is known about the factors that drive this change. We assess the available evidence on this topic through a literature review and pay special attention to [...] Read more.

Introduction: Eating behavior often becomes unhealthier during the transition from adolescence to young adulthood, but not much is known about the factors that drive this change. We assess the available evidence on this topic through a literature review and pay special attention to the research designs employed in the studies available as well as the modifiability of the factors investigated in previous research. Method: We systematically conducted a scoping review by searching literature published in or after 2000 in three databases that described one or more factors associated with eating behavior or changes in eating behavior during the transition from adolescence to adulthood in the general population. Our search identified eighteen articles meeting these inclusion criteria. The socio-ecological DONE (Determinants of Nutrition and Eating) framework, a recently developed dynamic framework of factors shaping dietary behavior, was used to structure and categorize the factors identified. Results: Most factors identified in the literature were individual-level factors (67%) such as food beliefs, time constraints, and taste preferences; on the other hand, interpersonal-level factors (e.g., social support), environmental-level factors (e.g., product characteristics) and policy-level factors (e.g., market regulations) have been reported on less extensively. Furthermore, most factors discussed in the literature have been classified in the DONE framework as not easily modifiable. Moreover, previous studies largely used static research designs and focused primarily on one specific population (US freshmen). Discussion: This systematic scoping review identified several gaps in the available literature that hinder insight into the drivers of eating behavior (change) during the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. There is an urgent need for research on broader populations, employing dynamic repeated-measures designs, and taking modifiability of factors into account. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Behaviours during Young Adulthood)

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15 pages, 2073 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Eye, Oxidative Damage and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

by Sergio Claudio Saccà, Carlo Alberto Cutolo, Daniele Ferrari, Paolo Corazza and Carlo Enrico Traverso

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060668 - 24 May 2018

Cited by 110 | Viewed by 11373

Abstract

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are known to have numerous beneficial effects, owing to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. From a metabolic standpoint, the mitochondria play a fundamental role in cellular homeostasis, and oxidative stress can affect their functioning. Indeed, the mitochondria are the [...] Read more.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are known to have numerous beneficial effects, owing to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. From a metabolic standpoint, the mitochondria play a fundamental role in cellular homeostasis, and oxidative stress can affect their functioning. Indeed, the mitochondria are the main source of ROS, and an imbalance between ROS and antioxidant defenses leads to oxidative stress. In addition, aging, the decline of cellular functions, and continual exposure to light underlie many diseases, particularly those of the eye. Long-term exposure to insults, such as UV light, visible light, ionizing radiation, chemotherapeutics, and environmental toxins, contribute to oxidative damage in ocular tissues and expose the aging eye to considerable risk of pathological consequences of oxidative stress. Ample antioxidant defenses responsible for scavenging free radicals are essential for redox homeostasis in the eye, indeed, eye tissues, starting from the tear film, which normally are exposed to high oxygen levels, have strong antioxidant defenses that are efficient for protecting against ROS-related injuries. On the contrary, instead, the trabecular meshwork is not directly exposed to light and its endothelial cells are poorly equipped with antioxidant defenses. All this makes the eye a target organ of oxidative damage. This review focuses on the role of the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the human eye, particularly in such pathologies as dry eye, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, in which dietary PUFA supplementation can be a valid therapeutic aid. Full article

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13 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Nutrients and Bioactive Substances Modulate Heat Shock Protein (HSP) Expression: A Review

by Carolina Soares Moura, Pablo Christiano Barboza Lollo, Priscila Neder Morato and Jaime Amaya-Farfan

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060683 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 7903

Abstract

Interest in the heat shock proteins (HSPs), as a natural physiological toolkit of living organisms, has ranged from their chaperone function in nascent proteins to the remedial role following cell stress. As part of the defence system, HSPs guarantee cell tolerance against a [...] Read more.

Interest in the heat shock proteins (HSPs), as a natural physiological toolkit of living organisms, has ranged from their chaperone function in nascent proteins to the remedial role following cell stress. As part of the defence system, HSPs guarantee cell tolerance against a variety of stressors, including exercise, oxidative stress, hyper and hypothermia, hyper and hypoxia and improper diets. For the past couple of decades, research on functional foods has revealed a number of substances likely to trigger cell protection through mechanisms that involve the induction of HSP expression. This review will summarize the occurrence of the most easily inducible HSPs and describe the effects of dietary proteins, peptides, amino acids, probiotics, high-fat diets and other food-derived substances reported to induce HSP response in animals and humans studies. Future research may clarify the mechanisms and explore the usefulness of this natural alternative of defense and the modulating mechanism of each substance. Full article

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29 pages, 1607 KiB

Open AccessReview

Maternal Circulating Vitamin Status and Colostrum Vitamin Composition in Healthy Lactating Women—A Systematic Approach

by Jasmijn Y. de Vries, Shikha Pundir, Elizabeth Mckenzie, Jaap Keijer and Martin Kussmann

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060687 - 28 May 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 9128

Abstract

Colostrum is the first ingested sole nutritional source for the newborn infant. The vitamin profile of colostrum depends on the maternal vitamin status, which in turn is influenced by diet and lifestyle. Yet, the relationship between maternal vitamin status and colostrum vitamin composition [...] Read more.

Colostrum is the first ingested sole nutritional source for the newborn infant. The vitamin profile of colostrum depends on the maternal vitamin status, which in turn is influenced by diet and lifestyle. Yet, the relationship between maternal vitamin status and colostrum vitamin composition has not been systematically reviewed. This review was conducted with the aim to generate a comprehensive overview on the relationship between maternal serum (plasma) vitamin concentration and corresponding colostrum composition. Three electronic databases, Embase (Ovid), Medline (Ovid), and Cochrane, were systematically searched based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, a total of 11 eligible publications were included that examined the vitamins A, C, D, E, and K in both biological fluids. Maternal vitamin A, D, E, and K blood levels were unrelated to colostrum content of the respective vitamins, and serum vitamin A was inversely correlated with colostrum vitamin E. Colostrum versus maternal serum vitamins were higher for vitamins A, C, and K, lower for vitamin D, and divergent results were reported for vitamin E levels. Colostrum appears typically enriched in vitamin A, C, and K compared to maternal serum, possibly indicative of active mammary gland transport mechanisms. Inter-individual and inter-study high variability in colostrum’s vitamin content endorses its sensitivity to external factors. Full article

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25 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biological and Psychosocial Processes in the Development of Children’s Appetitive Traits: Insights from Developmental Theory and Research

by Catherine G. Russell and Alan Russell

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060692 - 29 May 2018

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 10998

Abstract

There has been increasing concern expressed about children’s food intakes and dietary patterns. These are closely linked to children’s appetitive traits (such as disinhibited eating and food fussiness/neophobia). Research has examined both biological and psychosocial correlates or predictors of these traits. There has [...] Read more.

There has been increasing concern expressed about children’s food intakes and dietary patterns. These are closely linked to children’s appetitive traits (such as disinhibited eating and food fussiness/neophobia). Research has examined both biological and psychosocial correlates or predictors of these traits. There has been less focus on possible processes or mechanisms associated with children’s development of these traits and research that links biological and psychosocial factors. There is an absence of research that links biological and psychosocial factors. In the present article, we outline a model intended to facilitate theory and research on the development of appetitive traits. It is based on scholarship from developmental theory and research and incorporates biological factors such as genetic predispositions and temperament as well as psychosocial factors in terms of parent cognitions, feeding styles and feeding practices. Particular attention is directed to aspects such as emotional eating and feeding, self-regulation of energy intake, and non-shared family environments. We highlight the opportunity for longitudinal research that examines bidirectional, transactional and cascade processes and uses a developmental framework. The model provides a basis for connecting the biological foundations of appetitive traits to system-level analysis in the family. Knowledge generated through the application of the model should lead to more effective prevention and intervention initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Life Nutrition: From Nutrients to Systems)

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19 pages, 4919 KiB

Open AccessReview

Associations of Diet and Physical Activity with Risk for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Jovana Mijatovic-Vukas, Louise Capling, Sonia Cheng, Emmanuel Stamatakis, Jimmy Louie, N. Wah Cheung, Tania Markovic, Glynis Ross, Alistair Senior, Jennie C. Brand-Miller and Victoria M. Flood

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 698; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060698 - 30 May 2018

Cited by 221 | Viewed by 28780

Abstract

Rising rates of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and related complications have prompted calls to identify potentially modifiable risk factors that are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We systematically reviewed the scientific literature for observational studies examining specific dietary and/or physical activity (PA) [...] Read more.

Rising rates of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and related complications have prompted calls to identify potentially modifiable risk factors that are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We systematically reviewed the scientific literature for observational studies examining specific dietary and/or physical activity (PA) factors and risk of GDM. Our search included PubMed, Medline, CINAHL/EBSCO, Science Direct and EMBASE, and identified 1167 articles, of which 40 met our inclusion criteria (e.g., singleton pregnancy, reported diet or PA data during pre-pregnancy/early pregnancy and GDM as an outcome measure). Studies were assessed for quality using a modified Quality Criteria Checklist from American Dietetic Association. Of the final 40 studies, 72% obtained a positive quality rating and 28% were rated neutral. The final analysis incorporated data on 30,871 pregnant women. Dietary studies were categorised into either caffeine, carbohydrate, fat, protein, calcium, fast food and recognized dietary patterns. Diets such as Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and Alternate Healthy Eating Index diet (AHEI) were associated with 15–38% reduced relative risk of GDM. In contrast, frequent consumption of potato, meat/processed meats, and protein (% energy) derived from animal sources was associated with an increased risk of GDM. Compared to no PA, any pre-pregnancy or early pregnancy PA was associated with 30% and 21% reduced odds of GDM, respectively. Engaging in >90 min/week of leisure time PA before pregnancy was associated with 46% decreased odds of GDM. We conclude that diets resembling MedDiet/DASH diet as well as higher PA levels before or in early pregnancy were associated with lower risks or odds of GDM respectively. The systematic review was registered at PROSPERO (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO) as CRD42016027795. Full article

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17 pages, 1498 KiB

Open AccessReview

Factors Influencing Children’s Eating Behaviours

by Silvia Scaglioni, Valentina De Cosmi, Valentina Ciappolino, Fabio Parazzini, Paolo Brambilla and Carlo Agostoni

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060706 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 820 | Viewed by 73553

Abstract

Relevant factors involved in the creation of some children’s food preferences and eating behaviours have been examined in order to highlight the topic and give paediatricians practical instruments to understand the background behind eating behaviour and to manage children’s nutrition for preventive purposes. [...] Read more.

Relevant factors involved in the creation of some children’s food preferences and eating behaviours have been examined in order to highlight the topic and give paediatricians practical instruments to understand the background behind eating behaviour and to manage children’s nutrition for preventive purposes. Electronic databases were searched to locate and appraise relevant studies. We carried out a search to identify papers published in English on factors that influence children’s feeding behaviours. The family system that surrounds a child’s domestic life will have an active role in establishing and promoting behaviours that will persist throughout his or her life. Early-life experiences with various tastes and flavours have a role in promoting healthy eating in future life. The nature of a narrative review makes it difficult to integrate complex interactions when large sets of studies are involved. In the current analysis, parental food habits and feeding strategies are the most dominant determinants of a child’s eating behaviour and food choices. Parents should expose their offspring to a range of good food choices while acting as positive role models. Prevention programmes should be addressed to them, taking into account socioeconomic aspects and education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition in Pediatric Gastroenterology: Selected Papers from SIGENP)

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35 pages, 1804 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Human Milk Feeding and Morbidity in Very Low Birth Weight Infants

by Jacqueline Miller, Emma Tonkin, Raechel A. Damarell, Andrew J. McPhee, Machiko Suganuma, Hiroki Suganuma, Philippa F. Middleton, Maria Makrides and Carmel T. Collins

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060707 - 31 May 2018

Cited by 333 | Viewed by 19665

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesised the post-1990 literature examining the effect of human milk on morbidity, specifically necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), late onset sepsis (LOS), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and neurodevelopment in infants born ≤28 weeks’ gestation and/or publications with [...] Read more.

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesised the post-1990 literature examining the effect of human milk on morbidity, specifically necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), late onset sepsis (LOS), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and neurodevelopment in infants born ≤28 weeks’ gestation and/or publications with reported infant mean birth weight of ≤1500 g. Online databases including Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched, and comparisons were grouped as follows: exclusive human milk (EHM) versus exclusive preterm formula (EPTF), any human milk (HM) versus EPTF, higher versus lower dose HM, and unpasteurised versus pasteurised HM. Experimental and observational studies were pooled separately in meta-analyses. Risk of bias was assessed for each individual study and the GRADE system used to judge the certainty of the findings. Forty-nine studies (with 56 reports) were included, of which 44 could be included in meta-analyses. HM provided a clear protective effect against NEC, with an approximate 4% reduction in incidence. HM also provided a possible reduction in LOS, severe ROP and severe NEC. Particularly for NEC, any volume of HM is better than EPTF, and the higher the dose the greater the protection. Evidence regarding pasteurisation is inconclusive, but it appears to have no effect on some outcomes. Improving the intake of mother’s own milk (MOM) and/or donor HM results in small improvements in morbidity in this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Life Nutrition: From Nutrients to Systems)

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23 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessReview

Changes of Colonic Bacterial Composition in Parkinson’s Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases

by Sara Gerhardt and M. Hasan Mohajeri

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060708 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 235 | Viewed by 13340

Abstract

In recent years evidence has emerged that neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are strongly associated with the microbiome composition in the gut. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most intensively studied neurodegenerative disease in this context. In this review, we performed a systematic evaluation of the [...] Read more.

In recent years evidence has emerged that neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are strongly associated with the microbiome composition in the gut. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most intensively studied neurodegenerative disease in this context. In this review, we performed a systematic evaluation of the published literature comparing changes in colonic microbiome in PD to the ones observed in other NDs including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To enhance the comparability of different studies, only human case-control studies were included. Several studies showed an increase of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Verrucomicrobiaceae and Akkermansia in PD. A decrease of Faecalibacterium spp., Coprococcus spp., Blautia spp., Prevotella spp. and Prevotellaceae was observed in PD. On a low taxonomic resolution, like the phylum level, the changes are not disease-specific and are inconsistent. However, on a higher taxonomic resolution like genus or species level, a minor overlap was observed between PD and MSA, both alpha synucleinopathies. We show that standardization of sample collection and analysis is necessary for ensuring the reproducibility and comparability of data. We also provide evidence that assessing the microbiota composition at high taxonomic resolution reveals changes in relative abundance that may be specific to or characteristic of one disease or disease group, and might evolve discriminative power. The interactions between bacterial species and strains and the co-abundances must be investigated before assumptions about the effects of specific bacteria on the host can be made with certainty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Brain Aging and Gut-Brain Axis)

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12 pages, 1030 KiB

Open AccessReview

Impact of Vitamin D on the Cardiovascular System in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Dialysis Patients

by Anna Gluba-Brzózka, Beata Franczyk, Aleksandra Ciałkowska-Rysz, Robert Olszewski and Jacek Rysz

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 709; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060709 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6623

Abstract

In patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), the prevalence of cardiovascular disease is much more common than in the general population. The role of vitamin D deficiency had been underestimated until a significant association was found between vitamin D therapy and survival [...] Read more.

In patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), the prevalence of cardiovascular disease is much more common than in the general population. The role of vitamin D deficiency had been underestimated until a significant association was found between vitamin D therapy and survival benefit in haemodialysis patients. Vitamin D deficiency is present even in the early stages of chronic kidney disease. The results of experimental studies have revealed the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and impairment of cardiac contractile function, higher cardiac mass and increased myocardial collagen content. Experimental models propose that intermediate end points for the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and higher risk of cardiovascular disease comprise diminished left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), enhanced left ventricular diastolic function, and decreased frequency of heart failure. Multiple observational studies have demonstrated an association between the use of active vitamin D therapy in patients on dialysis and with CKD and improved survival. However, there are also many studies indicating important adverse effects of such treatment. Therefore, large randomized trials are required to analyze whether supplementation of vitamin D may affect outcomes and whether it is safe to be used in CKD patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Calcium and Human Health)

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12 pages, 878 KiB

Open AccessReview

Serum Magnesium after Kidney Transplantation: A Systematic Review

by Anne-Sophie Garnier, Agnès Duveau, Martin Planchais, Jean-François Subra, Johnny Sayegh and Jean-François Augusto

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060729 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 9154

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) status has recently drawn close attention in chronic kidney disease and in kidney transplant recipients. This review aims to evaluate the body of evidence linking hypomagnesemia to clinical consequences in these specific populations. After a brief summary of the main mechanisms [...] Read more.

Magnesium (Mg) status has recently drawn close attention in chronic kidney disease and in kidney transplant recipients. This review aims to evaluate the body of evidence linking hypomagnesemia to clinical consequences in these specific populations. After a brief summary of the main mechanisms involved in Mg regulation and of Mg status in end-stage renal disease, the review focuses on the relationship between hypomagnesemia and cardiovascular risk in kidney transplant recipients. A body of evidence in recent studies points to a negative impact of hypomagnesemia on post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) and cardiovascular risk, which currently represent the main threat for morbidity and mortality in kidney transplantation. Deleterious biological mechanisms induced by hypomagnesemia are also discussed. While data analysis enables us to conclude that hypomagnesemia is linked to the development of PTDM, studies prospectively evaluating the impact of hypomagnesemia correction after kidney transplantation are still lacking and needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnesium Intake and Human Health)

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23 pages, 4829 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Magnesium in Neurological Disorders

by Anna E. Kirkland, Gabrielle L. Sarlo and Kathleen F. Holton

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060730 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 252 | Viewed by 66740

Abstract

Magnesium is well known for its diverse actions within the human body. From a neurological standpoint, magnesium plays an essential role in nerve transmission and neuromuscular conduction. It also functions in a protective role against excessive excitation that can lead to neuronal cell [...] Read more.

Magnesium is well known for its diverse actions within the human body. From a neurological standpoint, magnesium plays an essential role in nerve transmission and neuromuscular conduction. It also functions in a protective role against excessive excitation that can lead to neuronal cell death (excitotoxicity), and has been implicated in multiple neurological disorders. Due to these important functions within the nervous system, magnesium is a mineral of intense interest for the potential prevention and treatment of neurological disorders. Current literature is reviewed for migraine, chronic pain, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke, as well as the commonly comorbid conditions of anxiety and depression. Previous reviews and meta-analyses are used to set the scene for magnesium research across neurological conditions, while current research is reviewed in greater detail to update the literature and demonstrate the progress (or lack thereof) in the field. There is strong data to suggest a role for magnesium in migraine and depression, and emerging data to suggest a protective effect of magnesium for chronic pain, anxiety, and stroke. More research is needed on magnesium as an adjunct treatment in epilepsy, and to further clarify its role in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Overall, the mechanistic attributes of magnesium in neurological diseases connote the macromineral as a potential target for neurological disease prevention and treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnesium Intake and Human Health)

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31 pages, 16480 KiB

Open AccessReview

Targeting Histone Deacetylases with Natural and Synthetic Agents: An Emerging Anticancer Strategy

by Amit Kumar Singh, Anupam Bishayee and Abhay K. Pandey

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060731 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 189 | Viewed by 12052

Abstract

Cancer initiation and progression are the result of genetic and/or epigenetic alterations. Acetylation-mediated histone/non-histone protein modification plays an important role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Histone modification is controlled by the balance between histone acetyltransferase and (HAT) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) [...] Read more.

Cancer initiation and progression are the result of genetic and/or epigenetic alterations. Acetylation-mediated histone/non-histone protein modification plays an important role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Histone modification is controlled by the balance between histone acetyltransferase and (HAT) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes. Imbalance between the activities of these two enzymes is associated with various forms of cancer. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) regulate the activity of HDACs and are being used in cancer treatment either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic drugs/radiotherapy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved four compounds, namely vorinostat, romidepsin, belinostat, and panobinostat, as HDACi for the treatment of cancer. Several other HDACi of natural and synthetic origin are under clinical trial for the evaluation of efficiency and side-effects. Natural compounds of plant, fungus, and actinomycetes origin, such as phenolics, polyketides, tetrapeptide, terpenoids, alkaloids, and hydoxamic acid, have been reported to show potential HDAC-inhibitory activity. Several HDACi of natural and dietary origin are butein, protocatechuic aldehyde, kaempferol (grapes, green tea, tomatoes, potatoes, and onions), resveratrol (grapes, red wine, blueberries and peanuts), sinapinic acid (wine and vinegar), diallyl disulfide (garlic), and zerumbone (ginger). HDACi exhibit their antitumor effect by the activation of cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis and autophagy, angiogenesis inhibition, increased reactive oxygen species generation causing oxidative stress, and mitotic cell death in cancer cells. This review summarizes the HDACs classification, their aberrant expression in cancerous tissue, structures, sources, and the anticancer mechanisms of HDACi, as well as HDACi that are either FDA-approved or under clinical trials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Cancer Prevention and Therapy)

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15 pages, 1309 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Salt Restriction in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

by Carlo Garofalo, Silvio Borrelli, Michele Provenzano, Toni De Stefano, Carlo Vita, Paolo Chiodini, Roberto Minutolo, Luca De Nicola and Giuseppe Conte

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060732 - 6 Jun 2018

Cited by 126 | Viewed by 11498

Abstract

Background. A clear evidence on the benefits of reducing salt in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is still lacking. Salt restriction in CKD may allow better control of blood pressure (BP) as shown in a previous systematic review while the effect on [...] Read more.

Background. A clear evidence on the benefits of reducing salt in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is still lacking. Salt restriction in CKD may allow better control of blood pressure (BP) as shown in a previous systematic review while the effect on proteinuria reduction remains poorly investigated. Methods. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of low versus high salt intake in adult patients with non-dialysis CKD on change in BP, proteinuria and albuminuria. Results. Eleven RCTs were selected and included information about 738 CKD patients (Stage 1–4); urinary sodium excretion was 104 mEq/day (95%CI, 76–131) and 179 mEq/day (95%CI, 165–193) in low- and high-sodium intake subgroups, respectively, with a mean difference of −80 mEq/day (95%CI from −107 to −53; p <0.001). Overall, mean differences in clinic and ambulatory systolic BP were −4.9 mmHg (95%CI from −6.8 to −3.1, p <0.001) and −5.9 mmHg (95%CI from −9.5 to −2.3, p <0.001), respectively, while clinic and ambulatory diastolic BP were −2.3 mmHg (95%CI from −3.5 to −1.2, p <0.001) and −3.0 mmHg (95%CI from −4.3 to −1.7; p <0.001), respectively. Mean differences in proteinuria and albuminuria were −0.39 g/day (95%CI from −0.55 to −0.22, p <0.001) and −0.05 g/day (95%CI from −0.09 to −0.01, p = 0.013). Conclusion. Moderate salt restriction significantly reduces BP and proteinuria/albuminuria in patients with CKD (Stage 1–4). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients and Renal Function)

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11 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessReview

Extra-Intestinal Manifestation of Celiac Disease in Children

by Hilary Jericho and Stefano Guandalini

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060755 - 12 Jun 2018

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 9267

Abstract

The aim of this literature review is to discuss the extra-intestinal manifestations of celiac disease within the pediatric celiac population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraintestinal Manifestations of Coeliac Disease)

11 pages, 887 KiB

Open AccessReview

FADS Polymorphism, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Diabetes Risk: A Systematic Review

by Bárbara Brayner, Gunveen Kaur, Michelle A. Keske and Katherine M. Livingstone

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 758; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060758 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7112

Abstract

The role of n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is not well established. The synthesis of LC n-3 PUFA requires fatty acid desaturase enzymes, which are encoded by [...] Read more.

The role of n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is not well established. The synthesis of LC n-3 PUFA requires fatty acid desaturase enzymes, which are encoded by the FADS gene. It is unclear if FADS polymorphism and dietary fatty acid intake can influence plasma or erythrocyte membrane fatty acid profile and thereby the risk of T2DM. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to assess the current evidence for an effect of FADS polymorphism on T2DM risk and understand its associations with serum/erythrocyte and dietary LC n-3 PUFA. A systematic search was performed using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Scopus databases. A total of five studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the present review. This review identified that FADS polymorphism may alter plasma fatty acid composition and play a protective role in the development of T2DM. Serum and erythrocyte LC n-3 PUFA levels were not associated with risk of T2DM, while dietary intake of LC n-3 PUFA was associated with lower risk of T2DM in one study only. The effect of LC n-3 PUFA consumption on associations between FADS polymorphism and T2DM warrants further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Nutrition-1)

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18 pages, 1431 KiB

Open AccessReview

Molecular Pathways Underlying Cholesterol Homeostasis

by Milessa Silva Afonso, Roberta Marcondes Machado, Maria Silvia Lavrador, Eder Carlos Rocha Quintao, Kathryn J. Moore and Ana Maria Lottenberg

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060760 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 116 | Viewed by 16972

Abstract

Cholesterol is an essential molecule that exerts pleiotropic actions. Although its presence is vital to the cell, its excess can be harmful and, therefore, sustaining cholesterol homeostasis is crucial to maintaining proper cellular functioning. It is well documented that high plasma cholesterol concentration [...] Read more.

Cholesterol is an essential molecule that exerts pleiotropic actions. Although its presence is vital to the cell, its excess can be harmful and, therefore, sustaining cholesterol homeostasis is crucial to maintaining proper cellular functioning. It is well documented that high plasma cholesterol concentration increases the risk of atherosclerotic heart disease. In the last decades, several studies have investigated the association of plasma cholesterol concentrations and the risk of cardiovascular diseases as well as the signaling pathways involved in cholesterol homeostasis. Here, we present an overview of several mechanisms involved in intestinal cholesterol absorption, the regulation of cholesterol synthesis and uptake. We also discuss the importance of reverse cholesterol transport and transintestinal cholesterol transport to maintain cholesterol homeostasis and prevent atherosclerosis development. Additionally, we discuss the influence of dietary cholesterol on plasma cholesterol concentration and the new recommendations for cholesterol intake in a context of a healthy dietary pattern. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Cholesterol:Is It Related to Chronic Disease)

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26 pages, 1040 KiB

Open AccessReview

Impact of Dietary Cholesterol on the Pathophysiology of Infectious and Autoimmune Disease

by Catherine J. Andersen

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060764 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 9985

Abstract

Cellular cholesterol metabolism, lipid raft formation, and lipoprotein interactions contribute to the regulation of immune-mediated inflammation and response to pathogens. Lipid pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of bacterial and viral infections, whereas altered lipid metabolism may contribute to immune dysfunction in [...] Read more.

Cellular cholesterol metabolism, lipid raft formation, and lipoprotein interactions contribute to the regulation of immune-mediated inflammation and response to pathogens. Lipid pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of bacterial and viral infections, whereas altered lipid metabolism may contribute to immune dysfunction in autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Interestingly, dietary cholesterol may exert protective or detrimental effects on risk, progression, and treatment of different infectious and autoimmune diseases, although current findings suggest that these effects are variable across populations and different diseases. Research evaluating the effects of dietary cholesterol, often provided by eggs or as a component of Western-style diets, demonstrates that cholesterol-rich dietary patterns affect markers of immune inflammation and cellular cholesterol metabolism, while additionally modulating lipoprotein profiles and functional properties of HDL. Further, cholesterol-rich diets appear to differentially impact immunomodulatory lipid pathways across human populations of variable metabolic status, suggesting that these complex mechanisms may underlie the relationship between dietary cholesterol and immunity. Given the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015–2020 revision to no longer include limitations on dietary cholesterol, evaluation of dietary cholesterol recommendations beyond the context of cardiovascular disease risk is particularly timely. This review provides a comprehensive and comparative analysis of significant and controversial studies on the role of dietary cholesterol and lipid metabolism in the pathophysiology of infectious disease and autoimmune disorders, highlighting the need for further investigation in this developing area of research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Cholesterol:Is It Related to Chronic Disease)

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16 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of n-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, and Interactions with Statins

by Julia K. Bird, Philip C. Calder and Manfred Eggersdorfer

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060775 - 15 Jun 2018

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 9498

Abstract

Decreases in global cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and morbidity in recent decades can be partly attributed to cholesterol reduction through statin use. n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are recommended by some authorities for primary and secondary CVD prevention, and for triglyceride [...] Read more.

Decreases in global cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and morbidity in recent decades can be partly attributed to cholesterol reduction through statin use. n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are recommended by some authorities for primary and secondary CVD prevention, and for triglyceride reduction. The residual risk of CVD that remains after statin therapy may potentially be reduced by n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, the effects of concomitant use of statins and n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are not well understood. Pleiotropic effects of statins and n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids overlap. For example, cytochrome P450 enzymes that metabolize statins may affect n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism and vice versa. Clinical and mechanistic study results show both synergistic and antagonistic effects of statins and n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids when used in combination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fatty Acids and Cardiometabolic Health)

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35 pages, 1412 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biological and Clinical Aspects of an Olive Oil-Based Lipid Emulsion—A Review

by Wei Cai, Phillip C. Calder, Maria F. Cury-Boaventura, Elisabeth De Waele, Julie Jakubowski and Gary Zaloga

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060776 - 15 Jun 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8189

Abstract

Intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) have been an integral component of parenteral nutrition for more than 50 years. Numerous formulations are available and are based on vegetable (soybean, olive, coconut) and animal (fish) oils. Therefore, each of these formulations has a unique fatty acid [...] Read more.

Intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) have been an integral component of parenteral nutrition for more than 50 years. Numerous formulations are available and are based on vegetable (soybean, olive, coconut) and animal (fish) oils. Therefore, each of these formulations has a unique fatty acid composition that offers both benefits and limitations. As clinical experience and our understanding of the effects of fatty acids on various physiological processes has grown, there is evidence to suggest that some ILEs may have benefits compared with others. Current evidence suggests that olive oil-based ILE may preserve immune, hepatobiliary, and endothelial cell function, and may reduce lipid peroxidation and plasma lipid levels. There is good evidence from a large randomized controlled study to support a benefit of olive oil-based ILE over soybean oil-based ILE on reducing infections in critically ill patients. At present there is limited evidence to demonstrate a benefit of olive oil-based ILE over other ILEs on glucose metabolism, and few data exist to demonstrate a benefit on clinical outcomes such as hospital or intensive care unit stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, or mortality. We review the current research and clinical evidence supporting the potential positive biological and clinical aspects of olive oil-based ILE and conclude that olive oil-based ILE is well tolerated and provides effective nutritional support to various PN-requiring patient populations. Olive oil-based ILE appears to support the innate immune system, is associated with fewer infections, induces less lipid peroxidation, and is not associated with increased hepatobiliary or lipid disturbances. These data would suggest that olive oil-based ILE is a valuable option in various PN-requiring patient populations. Full article

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14 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dietary Cholesterol and the Lack of Evidence in Cardiovascular Disease

by Ghada A. Soliman

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060780 - 16 Jun 2018

Cited by 187 | Viewed by 48336

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. For years, dietary cholesterol was implicated in increasing blood cholesterol levels leading to the elevated risk of CVD. To date, extensive research did not show evidence to support a role [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. For years, dietary cholesterol was implicated in increasing blood cholesterol levels leading to the elevated risk of CVD. To date, extensive research did not show evidence to support a role of dietary cholesterol in the development of CVD. As a result, the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans removed the recommendations of restricting dietary cholesterol to 300 mg/day. This review summarizes the current literature regarding dietary cholesterol intake and CVD. It is worth noting that most foods that are rich in cholesterol are also high in saturated fatty acids and thus may increase the risk of CVD due to the saturated fatty acid content. The exceptions are eggs and shrimp. Considering that eggs are affordable and nutrient-dense food items, containing high-quality protein with minimal saturated fatty acids (1.56 gm/egg) and are rich in several micronutrients including vitamins and minerals, it would be worthwhile to include eggs in moderation as a part of a healthy eating pattern. This recommendation is particularly relevant when individual’s intakes of nutrients are suboptimal, or with limited income and food access, and to help ensure dietary intake of sufficient nutrients in growing children and older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Cholesterol:Is It Related to Chronic Disease)

25 pages, 929 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fatty Acids and Calcium Regulation in Prostate Cancer

by Ivan V. Maly and Wilma A. Hofmann

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 788; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060788 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6486

Abstract

Prostate cancer is a widespread malignancy characterized by a comparative ease of primary diagnosis and difficulty in choosing the individualized course of treatment. Management of prostate cancer would benefit from a clearer understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the transition to the lethal, [...] Read more.

Prostate cancer is a widespread malignancy characterized by a comparative ease of primary diagnosis and difficulty in choosing the individualized course of treatment. Management of prostate cancer would benefit from a clearer understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the transition to the lethal, late-stage forms of the disease, which could potentially yield new biomarkers for differential prognosis and treatment prioritization in addition to possible new therapeutic targets. Epidemiological research has uncovered a significant correlation of prostate cancer incidence and progression with the intake (and often co-intake) of fatty acids and calcium. Additionally, there is evidence of the impact of these nutrients on intracellular signaling, including the mechanisms mediated by the calcium ion as a second messenger. The present review surveys the recent literature on the molecular mechanisms associated with the critical steps in the prostate cancer progression, with special attention paid to the regulation of these processes by fatty acids and calcium homeostasis. Testable hypotheses are put forward that integrate some of the recent results in a more unified picture of these phenomena at the interface of cell signaling and metabolism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Calcium and Human Health)

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21 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutritional Requirements of Lung Transplant Recipients: Challenges and Considerations

by Valerie Jomphe, Larry C. Lands and Genevieve Mailhot

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060790 - 19 Jun 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 8735

Abstract

An optimal nutritional status is associated with better post-transplant outcomes and survival. Post-lung transplant nutrition management is however particularly challenging as lung recipients represent a very heterogeneous group of patients in terms of age, underlying diseases, weight status and presence of comorbidities. Furthermore, [...] Read more.

An optimal nutritional status is associated with better post-transplant outcomes and survival. Post-lung transplant nutrition management is however particularly challenging as lung recipients represent a very heterogeneous group of patients in terms of age, underlying diseases, weight status and presence of comorbidities. Furthermore, the post-transplant period encompasses several stages characterized by physiological and pathophysiological changes that affect nutritional status of patients and necessitate tailored nutrition management. We provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding nutritional requirements in the post-lung transplant period from the immediate post-operative phase to long-term follow-up. In the immediate post-transplantation phase, the high doses of immunosuppressants and corticosteroids, the goal of maintaining hemodynamic stability, the presence of a catabolic state, and the wound healing process increase nutritional demands and lead to metabolic perturbations that necessitate nutritional interventions. As time from transplantation increases, complications such as obesity, osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease, may develop and require adjustments to nutrition management. Until specific nutritional guidelines for lung recipients are elaborated, recommendations regarding nutrient requirements are formulated to provide guidance for clinicians caring for these patients. Finally, the management of recipients with special considerations is also briefly addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Relationship between Nutrition and Respiratory Disease)

25 pages, 1966 KiB

Open AccessReview

Skeletal Muscle Metabolism in Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy—Implications for Therapies

by Ahlke Heydemann

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060796 - 20 Jun 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 10808

Abstract

The interactions between nutrition and metabolism and skeletal muscle have long been known. Muscle is the major metabolic organ—it consumes more calories than other organs—and therefore, there is a clear need to discuss these interactions and provide some direction for future research areas [...] Read more.

The interactions between nutrition and metabolism and skeletal muscle have long been known. Muscle is the major metabolic organ—it consumes more calories than other organs—and therefore, there is a clear need to discuss these interactions and provide some direction for future research areas regarding muscle pathologies. In addition, new experiments and manuscripts continually reveal additional highly intricate, reciprocal interactions between metabolism and muscle. These reciprocal interactions include exercise, age, sex, diet, and pathologies including atrophy, hypoxia, obesity, diabetes, and muscle myopathies. Central to this review are the metabolic changes that occur in the skeletal muscle cells of muscular dystrophy patients and mouse models. Many of these metabolic changes are pathogenic (inappropriate body mass changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, and increased Ca²⁺) and others are compensatory (increased phosphorylated AMP activated protein kinase (pAMPK), increased slow fiber numbers, and increased utrophin). Therefore, reversing or enhancing these changes with therapies will aid the patients. The multiple therapeutic targets to reverse or enhance the metabolic pathways will be discussed. Among the therapeutic targets are increasing pAMPK, utrophin, mitochondrial number and slow fiber characteristics, and inhibiting reactive oxygen species. Because new data reveals many additional intricate levels of interactions, new questions are rapidly arising. How does muscular dystrophy alter metabolism, and are the changes compensatory or pathogenic? How does metabolism affect muscular dystrophy? Of course, the most profound question is whether clinicians can therapeutically target nutrition and metabolism for muscular dystrophy patient benefit? Obtaining the answers to these questions will greatly aid patients with muscular dystrophy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Intake and Musculoskeletal Health)

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7 pages, 1029 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Implementation of Low Glycemic Index Diet Together with Cornstarch in Post-Gastric Bypass Hypoglycemia: Two Case Reports

by Erminia Lembo, Roberta Lupoli, Paola Ciciola, Annalisa Creanza, Eufemia Silvestri, Gennaro Saldalamacchia and Brunella Capaldo

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060670 - 25 May 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6039

Abstract

Post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) is an increasingly recognized long-term complication of bariatric surgery. The nutritional treatment of PBH includes a high-fiber diet and the restriction of soluble and high-glycemic index carbohydrates; however, these measures are not always enough to prevent hypoglycemia. We evaluated the [...] Read more.

Post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) is an increasingly recognized long-term complication of bariatric surgery. The nutritional treatment of PBH includes a high-fiber diet and the restriction of soluble and high-glycemic index carbohydrates; however, these measures are not always enough to prevent hypoglycemia. We evaluated the efficacy of uncooked cornstarch, a low-glycemic index carbohydrate characterized by slow intestinal degradation and absorption, in addition to a high-fiber diet, for the treatment of PBH. We report the cases of two young women suffering from severe postprandial and fasting hypoglycemia following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The patients underwent Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) before and 12–16 weeks after the administration of uncooked cornstarch (respectively 1.25 g/kg b.w. and 1.8 g/kg b.w.) in addition to a high-fiber diet. In both patients, CGM showed more stable glucose levels throughout monitoring, a remarkable reduction of the time spent in hypoglycemia (<55 mg/dL) both during the day (−11% for both patients) and the night (−22% and −32%), and the improvement of all glycemic variability indexes. Our report, within the limit of only two cases, suggests that the implementation of a dietary intervention through the addition of uncooked cornstarch reduces daily glycemic fluctuations and hypoglycemic episodes in patients with PBH. Full article

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10 pages, 409 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

The Important Role of Carbohydrates in the Flavor, Function, and Formulation of Oral Nutritional Supplements

by Smaro Kokkinidou, Devin Peterson, Tama Bloch and Ashley Bronston

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060742 - 8 Jun 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 10395

Abstract

Patients who are malnourished or at-risk for malnutrition often benefit from the consumption of oral nutritional supplements (ONS). ONS supply a range of micro- and macro-nutrients, and they can be used to supplement a diet or provide total nutrition. Since ONS are specially [...] Read more.

Patients who are malnourished or at-risk for malnutrition often benefit from the consumption of oral nutritional supplements (ONS). ONS supply a range of micro- and macro-nutrients, and they can be used to supplement a diet or provide total nutrition. Since ONS are specially formulated products, all ONS ingredients—including carbohydrates—are added ingredients. This may seem to be at odds with the growing public health discourse on the need to reduce “added sugars” in the diet. However, carbohydrate is an essential nutrient for human health and is a critical ingredient in ONS. Helping to educate patients on the value of “added sugars” in ONS may be useful to improve compliance with nutritional recommendations when ONS are indicated. This perspective paper reviews the important roles of “added sugars” in ONS, in terms of flavor, function, and product formulation. Full article

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3 pages, 181 KiB

Open AccessLetter

Re: Jones et al., Nutrients 2018, 10, 501

by Mark Lawrence and Julie Woods

Nutrients 2018, 10(6), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060746 - 9 Jun 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4881

Abstract

We read with interest the paper by Jones et al. [1] [...] Full article

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Nutrients, Volume 10, Issue 6 (June 2018) – 141 articles

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