Search Results (3,446)

This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation on performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, gut morphology, fecal microbiota, and bone morphology in Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 44 weeks over a 16-week period. Ninety-six hens were randomly divided into control and probiotic groups (n = 48 each). The probiotic group received probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus KUEN 1607 and Pediococcus acidilactici KUEN 1608 via drinking water at 0.5%. Probiotic supplementation significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), eggshell strength and thickness, and albumen quality (p < 0.001) and reduced the incidence of cracked and shell-less eggs (p < 0.05). Yolk and serum cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.001), and antioxidant parameters improved, along with elevated serum IgG (p < 0.001). Histological analysis showed an increased ratio of villus height to crypt depth (p < 0.001) in the jejunum, indicating enhanced intestinal health. Fecal samples revealed increased Lactobacillus spp. and reduced coliform counts (p < 0.001), suggesting improved gut microbiota balance. While bone volume and surface area showed no significant difference, 3D geometric morphometric analysis identified subtle shape changes in long bones, especially the femur and tibiotarsus. These findings demonstrate that the selected probiotic combination supports nutrient utilization, egg quality, gut integrity, immune status, and skeletal health, offering a sustainable strategy to enhance productivity and welfare in laying hens. Full article

Background: Protein substitutes are essential in the dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU). Transition from first-stage phenylalanine (Phe)-free infant formula to second- and third-stage protein substitutes is carefully managed to meet a child’s evolving nutritional needs, feeding abilities, and developmental progression. However, clinical protocols, product access, and reimbursement vary globally. This study assessed international transition practices. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey explored health professionals’ practices on transition timing, influencing factors, product forms, casein-glycomacropeptide (cGMP) use, and perceived barriers and facilitators. Results: A total of 106 professionals from 32 countries participated: Europe (67%), Asia (12%), North America (10%), South America (8%), and Oceania (3%). Dietitians led transitions in 83% of centers. First-stage Phe-free infant formula was typically discontinued at 1–2 years (66%). Second-stage substitutes were introduced at 6–12 months in Europe (61%) and Oceania (100%), but after age one in Asia (69%), North America (72%), and South America (100%). Influencing factors included weaning alignment (46%) and nutritional needs (42%). Semi-solids were preferred in Europe (56%) and Oceania (67%), while powdered drinks dominated in Asia (62%), North America (82%), and South America (100%). Third-stage protein substitutes were introduced at 3–5 years (45%), with later transitions more common in South America (88%) and North America (63%). Ready-to-drink forms were frequent in Oceania (100%), Asia (92%), and Europe (85%). cGMP was prescribed by 61%, mainly guided by preference, Phe tolerance, and adherence; 26% reported no access. Key facilitators for transition included motivation (79%) and sensory properties (69%); barriers included aversion (70%) and poor taste/texture (69%). School involvement was reported by 32%. Conclusions: Protein substitute transition practices in PKU vary globally. International guidance and equitable product access are needed. Full article

Background/Objectives: The rising prevalence of mental health disorders among adolescents underscores the need for early intervention. Of concern is the increasing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and high-caffeine drinks, which may adversely affect adolescent mental health. This study examined their association with stress perception, depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and loneliness among Korean adolescents. Methods: Data were derived from the 2022 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a nationally representative dataset comprising 51,850 Korean adolescents aged 12–18 years. Beverage consumption frequency was categorized into three groups: none, 1–4 times per week, and ≥5–6 times per week. Logistic regression models were employed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for mental health conditions, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Compared with non-consumers, adolescents who consumed SSBs ≥5–6 times per week exhibited significantly higher odds of stress perception (AOR 1.35, 95% CI 1.24–1.46), depressive symptoms (AOR 1.32, 95% CI 1.19–1.46), suicidal ideation (AOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09–1.39), and loneliness (AOR 1.44, 95% CI 1.28–1.61). Similarly, frequent consumption of high-caffeine drinks (≥5–6 times per week) was associated with increased odds of stress perception (AOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.99–2.29), depressive symptoms (AOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.62–1.88), suicidal ideation (AOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.86–2.24), and loneliness (AOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.59–1.87). Conclusions: Frequent consumption of SSBs and high-caffeine drinks is significantly associated with adverse mental health outcomes among Korean adolescents. Given the increasing intake of these beverages, targeted public health interventions are warranted to mitigate their potential negative impact on adolescent mental well-being. Full article

Thirst is usually characterized as an unpleasant sensation provoking drinking of water. The purpose of the present review is to draw attention to the importance of thirst in overall regulation of body fluid homeostasis in health and pathology. Intensity of thirst is determined by signals generated in multiple groups of osmosensitive neurons engaged in dipsogenic and antidipsogenic activities, which are located in the brain cortex, the insula, the amygdala, the median preoptic area, the hypothalamic nuclei and the organum vasculosum laminae terminalis. Water ingestion is also influenced by signals generated in the cardiovascular system, the gastrointestinal system, the pancreas, the liver and the kidney and by changes of body temperature. Regulation of thirst engages the autonomic nervous system and several neuroactive factors synthetized in the brain and the peripheral organs. Among them are components of the renin–angiotensin system, vasopressin, atrial natriuretic peptide, cholecystokinin, ghrelin, gaseous transmitters, cytokines and prostaglandins. Experimental studies provide evidence that elevation of fluid osmolality, which is the most frequent cause of thirst, influences function of the voltage-gated sodium channel and calcium-dependent kinase II subunit alpha. Regulation of thirst may be inappropriate in old age and under some pathological conditions including infections, heart failure, diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, and psychogenic disorders. The molecular background of the abnormal regulation of thirst in the clinical disorders is not yet sufficiently recognized and requires further examination. Full article

Male infertility, as a globally significant reproductive health issue, remains idiopathic in over 40% of cases. Reproductive disorders in males induced by environmental pollutants, such as di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), have garnered considerable attention in recent years. DEHP induces testicular oxidative stress and ferroptosis via its active metabolite MEHP, thereby leading to spermatogenic dysfunction. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), a traditional food and medicine homologous substance, exhibits potential antioxidant and reproductive protective properties. However, the underlying mechanism by which LBP intervenes in the toxicity induced by DEHP remains to be elucidated. This study explored the protective effect and molecular mechanism of LBP on DEHP-induced testicular injury through in vivo and in vitro experiments. The result showed that DEHP exposure (150 mg/L in free drinking water for 6 weeks) significantly decreased testicular weight, sperm concentration, and sperm motility in mice, while DEHP exposure induced pathological damage to testicular tissue, as evidenced by cavitation of seminiferous tubules, reduced numbers of spermatocytes, and vacuolar degeneration of Sertoli cells. However, LBP (450 mg/L) treatment significantly reversed testicular damage and sperm parameters. In vitro, MEHP reduced the viability of GC2 cells (spermatocyte cell line) and TM4 cells (Sertoli cell line), and LBP significantly restored cell activity. Mechanistically, exposure to DEHP/MEHP results in iron overload (elevated levels of free Fe²⁺), lipid peroxidation (increased MDA and reduced GSH), and dysregulated expression of key proteins involved in ferroptosis and iron homeostasis within the testis and cells. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that when NRF2 was specifically inhibited by ML385 or silenced via siRNA, the protective effects of LBP were abrogated, thereby validating the critical role of NRF2 in the regulation of iron homeostasis by LBP. In conclusion, LBP mitigates DEHP-induced testicular injury by activating NRF2 to regulate iron homeostasis in Sertoli cells and spermatocytes cells. This study not only offers a potential strategy for the prevention and treatment of male reproductive disorders caused by DEHP exposure, but also underscores the reproductive protective effects and application prospects of LBP in this context. Full article

The assessment of food system sustainability requires a profound understanding of the evolution of food production and consumption. Monitoring the transition towards healthier and sustainable diets is crucial for supporting future interventions. This study explores market sales data as an input to investigate and compare current dietary trends in the European Union Member States over 14 years. By analysing consumption trends of major food product categories, including animal-based and plant-based foods, we identified two distinct clusters of countries with opposite dietary patterns. Our analysis explored not only major food product categories essential for healthy living but also superfluous foods (i.e., discretionary) to provide a broader understanding of dietary habits. In particular, our results show that countries reducing consumption of animal-based foods also exhibit a reduction in consumption of discretionary products, such as alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, highlighting opportunities for synergies between environmental and health policies. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to promote the uptake of healthy and sustainable diets and supports the development of targeted strategies to support the transition towards more environmentally friendly and healthy food systems. Full article

Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is a persistent degradation product of widely used fluorinated compounds such as hydrofluorocarbons, hydrofluoroolefins, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrochlorofluoroolefins. Its chemical stability, water solubility, and environmental persistence raise concerns about potential human and ecological risks. To provide an overview of current knowledge on TFA, we conducted a literature search (PubMed and Scopus, December 2024–January 2025) focusing on its environmental fate, human exposure, toxicokinetic, ecotoxicology, and regulation. A narrative approach was applied, prioritizing recent and high-quality evidence. TFA is ubiquitous in air, water, food, and consumer products. Human exposure occurs mainly through ingestion and inhalation. It is rapidly absorbed and excreted mostly unchanged in urine, with limited metabolic transformation. Though not bioaccumulated in fat, its environmental persistence and ongoing exposure raise concerns about long-term systemic effects. Ecotoxicological data show chronic toxicity in aquatic and terrestrial species, with environmental concentrations often exceeding safety thresholds. Currently, no binding EU limit exists for TFA, although several countries have proposed drinking water guidelines. TFA represents an emerging environmental contaminant with potential human health and ecological impacts. Strengthened monitoring, long-term toxicological studies, and precautionary regulatory action are urgently needed. Full article

The use of agrochemicals in agriculture is widespread globally, as it enables increased crop yields. However, they also contain heavy metals such as copper and nickel, which can leach into the drinking water and harm the environment and human health. As such, it is imperative that they are removed from drinking water. One way to achieve this is through adsorption using biosorbents. This proof-of-concept study aimed to synthesize and characterize environmentally friendly hydrogels from sodium alginate (SA) and pomegranate peel powder (PPP). The gels were characterized using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and water uptake tests. The FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of the expected functional groups, SEM revealed that incorporating PPP enhanced the roughness and porosity of the gels, and gels with PPP incorporation were able to absorb 1.58 times more water than SA-only gels. Moreover, their ability to remediate copper and nickel from contaminated water was tested. Here, the effects of contact time, pH, and adsorbent amount were tested for copper, demonstrating that the optimal contact time was 60 min, the optimal pH was ~5, and 0.01 g of adsorbent was needed for optimal adsorption. The effect of contact time was tested for nickel, and it was found that the optimal contact time was 5 min. Overall, these gels show promising results for the remediation of copper and nickel from contaminated water. Full article

This study investigates the association between Low-Carbohydrate Diet (LCD) score and the incidence of hypertension in the Japanese population. This cohort study was conducted in an ongoing longitudinal study, the Toon Health Study. Hypertension was defined by measured blood pressure levels and self-reported treatment information, and dietary intake was measured through a validated food frequency questionnaire. Total, animal and plant-based LCD scores were calculated. Participants were divided into sex-specific tertiles of LCD scores. A multivariable-adjusted logistic regression model was used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of incidence of hypertension. Total and plant-based LCD scores showed a borderline negative association with incidence of hypertension. The ORs (95% CI) for the highest versus lowest tertile of the total LCD score were 0.61(0.37–1.03, p for trend = 0.07) and 0.65(0.39–1.10, p for trend = 0.09) for the plant-based LCD score. Stratified analysis by drinking status showed significant negative association among alcohol drinkers, multivariable ORs (95% CI) for the highest versus lowest tertile of total LCD score was 0.38 (0.17–0.83, p for trend = 0.01) and for the plant-based LCD score was 0.39 (0.17–0.90, p for trend = 0.01). No significant association observed in non-drinkers. In conclusion, an increased LCD score was associated with the lower incidence of hypertension, especially in the drinking population. Full article

Background: The increasing popularity of fruit juices as part of perceived healthy dietary choices has raised concerns regarding their erosive effects on dental enamel. While prior in vitro studies have largely relied on commercial fruit drinks and non-human enamel samples, this study adopts a more ecologically valid approach by using fresh local fruit juices and extracted human teeth to evaluate enamel erosion. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the consumption patterns, oral hygiene behaviours, and awareness of the erosive potential of fruit juices among Malaysian adults and to evaluate the erosive effects of freshly squeezed local fruit juices on human dental enamel under simulated oral conditions. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey (n = 189) was conducted among dental clinic attendees to assess fruit juice intake habits, oral health practices, and awareness levels. In parallel, an in vitro study was performed using 40 extracted premolar teeth immersed in lime juice, pineapple juice, citric acid (positive control), or distilled water (negative control) over a 10-day period. Enamel volume loss, surface roughness, and microhardness were analysed pre- and post-immersion. Results: Fruit juice consumption was highly prevalent, with lime (57.7%) being the most commonly consumed, followed by watermelon (53.0%), star fruit (15.9%), and pineapple (15.4%). The majority of respondents preferred sweetened juices (75.7%) and demonstrated only moderate oral hygiene, with just 53.4% reporting brushing their teeth twice daily. Awareness of the dental effects of acidic beverages was limited. In vitro results confirmed that both lime and pineapple juices significantly reduced enamel microhardness and increased surface roughness (p < 0.0001), with lime juice causing the greatest enamel volume loss due to its higher acidity. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for public health strategies that raise awareness on the implications of dietary acids and promote protective oral health behaviours. Dental practitioners should incorporate dietary counselling in routine care, particularly for populations at higher risk. Full article

The increasing shortage of drinking water, driven by reduced rainfall and the intensification of industrial and agricultural activities, has raised justified concerns about the quantity and quality of available water resources. These sectors not only demand high water consumption but also discharge large amounts of toxic substances such as organic matter, metal ions and inorganic anions, posing risks to both public health and the environment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of clay-based nanomaterials in the treatment of contaminated industrial wastewater from the mining sector. The materials tested included montmorillonite, high-loading expandable synthetic mica, and their organically functionalized forms (MMT, Mica-Na-4, C18-MMT, and C18-Mica-4). The experimental results show that these clays had minimal impact on the pH of the water, while a notable decrease in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) was observed. Ion chromatography indicated an increase in nitrogen and sulfur compounds with higher oxidation states. Inductively coupled plasma analysis revealed a significant reduction in the calcium concentration and an increase in the sodium concentration, likely due to cation exchange mechanisms. However, the removal of copper and iron was ineffective, possibly due to competitive interactions with other cations in the solution. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the structural modifications and interlayer spacing changes in the clay materials upon exposure to contaminated water. These findings demonstrate the potential of clay minerals as effective and low-cost materials for the remediation of industrial wastewater. Full article

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate caries experience in correlation with self-reported oral health-related habits in a sample of blind and low-vision individuals in Croatia. Methods: The study is a part of the research in the “Project for Oral Health Promotion in Blind and Visually Impaired Persons” conducted at the Zagreb University School of Dental Medicine from 2014 to 2018. The final sample consisted of 85 adults: 42 females and 43 males; 50 blind and 35 low-vision individuals, age range 18–98. The assessment included dental examination and a questionnaire. Results: The median DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) index score was 17.0 (IQR = 12.5–22.0), with no significant difference between sexes or between blind and low-vision individuals. The occurrence of untreated caries was low (median D-component = 1.0), while the median F-component was 6.0. There was a significant increase in M-component and DMFT in older age groups. The number of untreated caries (D-component) was significantly correlated with consummation of soft drinks and smoking. Total DMFT did not correlate with frequency of tooth brushing, time since last dental visit, smoking, or level of education. Conclusions: This study revealed high caries experience among blind and visually impaired individuals that did not correlate with factors that normally influence oral health. Similar results were found in the control group, reflecting a 30-year post-war period without organized preventive care. The low number of decayed teeth reflects the availability of public dental care in Croatia; however, preventive care should be provided for both this vulnerable group and the general population. Full article

This study assessed whether COVID-19 pandemic experiences were associated with excessive alcohol use during the first year of the pandemic in Iowa, a heavy-drinking midwestern US state. We analyzed survey data from 4047 adult residents of Iowa collected in August 2020, focusing on three pandemic-related stressors (e.g., emotional reactions to the pandemic; disruption of daily activities; and financial hardship) and salient social support. Using multiple logistic regression, we tested correlates of increased drinking, heavy drinking, and binge drinking, controlling for demographic characteristics and health status. We found that nearly half (47.6%) of respondents did not change their drinking compared to before the pandemic; however, 12.4% of respondents reported increasing their drinking and 5.3% reported decreasing their drinking. Emotional reactions to the pandemic and disruption of daily activities were associated with higher odds of increased drinking, and rurality was associated with lower odds of increased drinking. No pandemic-related stressor was associated with heavy or binge drinking, but social support was associated with lower odds of binge drinking. Thus, we concluded that some pandemic-related stressors may explain increased drinking but not heavy or binge drinking. Understanding the nuances of alcohol use can inform preventive interventions, policy decisions, and preparations for future catastrophic events. Full article

Background: The relationship between sports participation and food preferences in adults, as well as the influence of gender, is still unclear. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between sports participation and individual food preferences and to explore potential gender differences among sports participants in a large group of Italian adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 2665 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) who lead normal lives and underwent a routine lifestyle and dietary assessment at a clinical centre specialising in nutrition, metabolic health, and lifestyle counselling in Rome. Participants completed an online questionnaire on food preferences (19 foods) and sports practice. Multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and smoking, were used to assess associations. Results: Sports participation was defined as engaging in structured physical activity at least once per week and was reported by 53.5% of subjects (men: 60.1%; women: 49.0%; p < 0.0001). After adjustment, active individuals were significantly more likely to prefer plant-based drinks, low-fat yoghurt, fish, cooked and raw vegetables, fruit, whole grains, tofu, and dark chocolate (all p < 0.05) and less likely to prefer cow’s milk (p = 0.018). Among sport participants, males were more likely to prefer meat (general, white, red, processed) and eggs, while females preferred plant-based drinks. No significant gender differences were observed for dairy products, legumes, or fish. Differences in food preferences were also observed according to the type of sport, with bodybuilders showing higher preference for tofu and dark chocolate. The strongest associations were found in the 25–44 age group. Conclusions: Sports participation is independently associated with specific food preferences, characterised by greater preference for plant-based and fibre-rich foods, and gender differences in food choices persist even among active adults. These findings highlight the need to consider both sports participation and gender when designing nutritional interventions. Full article

This study estimates the prevalence of co-use of alcohol and cannabis, assesses the sociodemographic risk factors of co-use, and examines the associations between mental health and heavy episodic drinking (HED) and alcohol–cannabis co-use in Canada during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nine successive cross-sectional surveys, held from May 2020 to January 2022, of adults (aged ≥18 years) living in Canada were pooled for 9011 participants. The prevalence of co-use was calculated across sociodemographic groups. Logistic regressions were used to assess associations. Alcohol–cannabis co-use was associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in HED and experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The prevalence of co-use of alcohol was different across sociodemographic groups. The highest prevalence was among TGD people (35.5%), followed by individuals aged 18–39 years (14.5%). Additionally, being TGD (aOR = 3.61, 95% CI 2.09–6.25), separated/divorced/widowed (aOR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.23–2.07), living in an urban area (aOR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.07–1.56), and having a high household income (aOR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.09–1.82) increased the likelihood of reporting alcohol–cannabis co-use. These findings underscore the fact that developing public health and clinical interventions for preventing and treating excessive alcohol or cannabis use must consider both alcohol and cannabis use patterns and should be tailored to the highest-risk TGD and young adults. Full article