Search Results (71)

The griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus fulvus) is a scavenger species that plays a vital ecological role in carrion removal. Successful survival and reproduction in captive and wildlife conditions require optimal physical status and plumage integrity. Nutritional and environmental factors, systemic diseases, and various etiological agents can influence feather alterations. Although frequently documented in captive psittacine species, feather abnormalities are extremely rare in wild birds. Since 2020, two free-living griffon vultures in northeastern Italy have been found in poor physical condition, unable to fly due to partial feather loss and malformation of remiges and rectrices. Histopathologic examination of follicles and peri-follicular tissue revealed atrophy, keratin replacement, vasculitis, and calamus dystrophy with lymphohistiocytic perivasculitis. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis identified the presence of virus-like particles in epithelial and inflammatory cells. Although virome analysis did not confirm the presence of this virus in pooled affected samples, this study provides the first report of an emerging plumage disorder in free-ranging griffon vultures, which requires further characterization. Full article

Due to the extensive types of etiologies and risks causing over 600 types of mental health issues, to convene adequate recommendations in primary care is a difficult assignment. The starting point for preventive interventions on neurologic disorders involves scrutinizing the risk factors while targeting multiple hazards in order to increase the success of an early precautionary mediation plan of action. The primary risk factor for most neurodegenerative diseases is the increasing worldwide median age, although one in seven youngsters also experience a mental disability, namely depression, representing a decline in well-being and conferring a considerable global public health challenge. The brain operates optimally when supported by a holistic approach engaging several aspects, and diet is becoming an integral part of care strategies. Treatment is presently dominated by pharmacotherapy, but additional strategies are needed to prevent and treat mental disorders. Dietary modification can prove to be a cost-effective strategy for the prevention and, in certain conditions, treatment of neurological disorders. Molecules of dietary ingredients, micronutrients, phytonutrients, and additives may modulate depression associated biomarkers. Nutritional exposure during the early developmental stages and maternal impact, lifestyles, and the modulation of the gut microbiota through diet as novel therapies for the treatment of various neuropsychiatric conditions is gaining interest for maintaining brain health. Bioactive substances present in different mushroom species have been ascribed to both direct and indirect mechanisms of influence on neurobehavior, and here we support the recognition of mushroom nutrition as an influential dietary element in prevention and management of some neurologic concerns. Scientific evidence demonstrating the unequivocal link between nutritional mushrooms and cognitive health is only beginning to emerge, and nutritional medicine should be considered as an integral part of mental care. Full article

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic gastrointestinal disorder that greatly influences patients’ quality of life and represents a growing public health concern. Characterized by typical and atypical symptoms, GERD encompasses a range of clinical phenotypes and is associated with complications such as erosive esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus. This review intends to provide a thorough overview of current scientific knowledge on the etiological factors, risk determinants, and pathophysiology of GERD, while exploring diagnostic challenges and therapeutic approaches. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) remain the mainstay of medical therapy; however, concerns regarding their long-term safety have encouraged interest in adjunctive and alternative strategies. Emerging pharmacological agents, plant-based treatments, and integrative approaches rooted in traditional medicine offer promising modalities for enhanced management. Additionally, dietary and lifestyle modifications such as weight control, meal timing, and avoidance of trigger foods, are essential components of effective care. A multidisciplinary framework incorporating pharmacological, nutritional, and behavioral strategies is emphasized as the most reliable path toward personalized and sustainable GERD management. This review further aims to synthesize current therapeutic modalities and evolving perspectives in the treatment of GERD. Full article

Background: In 2022, there were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths. The number of new cancer cases is expected to rise to over 35 million by 2050, marking a 75% increase from 2022 levels. Twenty to eighty-six percent of cancer patients suffer from taste disorders (TD), which are associated with an increased risk of malnutrition. Cachectic syndrome is linked to the presence and growth of tumors and leads to systemic inflammation. Synsepalum dulcificum is a plant whose berries contain miraculin, a glycoprotein that transforms sour tastes into sweet and can ameliorate TD. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of the regular intake of dried miracle berries (DMBs), a novel food containing miraculin, on biomarkers of inflammation and cachexia in malnourished patients with cancer and TD receiving systemic antineoplastic therapy. Methods: we conducted a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial. Thirty-one patients with cancer of various etiologies who received chemotherapy were enrolled in this pilot study and divided into three groups. The first group received a tablet containing 150 mg of DMB (standard dose), the high-dose group received a tablet of 300 mg of DMB, and the third group received a tablet with 300 mg of the placebo for three months before each main meal. The plasma levels of several molecules associated with inflammation and cancer cachexia were measured using the X-MAP Luminex multiplexing platform. Results: We found decreased plasma levels of IFN-γ in the standard-dose group. In addition, our results suggest a downtrend of IL-1β levels in the three groups after three months of intervention (p = 0.093). Moreover, the three groups showed a reduction in tumor-derived molecule proteolysis-inducing factor/dermcidin (p = 0.021). It is important to highlight the positive correlation between IL-6 and IL-10 in the standard group, which suggests a better balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Regardless of DMB consumption, soluble TNF receptor type II tended to decrease with treatment in patients who responded well to the antineoplastic treatment (p = 0.011). We did not find significant correlations between cytokines and sensory variables or dietary and nutritional status. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the regular consumption of a standard dose of DMB along with a systemic antineoplastic treatment could contribute to reducing inflammation and cachexia biomarkers in malnourished patients with cancer exhibiting TD. In this sense, nutritional support is crucial in the treatment of cancer cachexia. In our view, it should be considered a coadjuvant of therapeutics. Future studies on the molecular signaling pathways and specific mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds within food supplements, such as miraculin, will allow them to be used to target pathogenic mechanisms of cancer cachexia and malnutrition: NCT05486260. Full article

Renal aging is a physiological process characterized by structural and functional changes in the kidneys. The presence of disorders or pathologies can exacerbate these age-related changes, potentially leading to organ dysfunction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a significant global public health issue, is particularly prevalent in the elderly and is often associated with the age-related decline in kidney function. Anemia is one of the most frequent complications of CKD and is also highly prevalent in the elderly. Mild anemia, often multifactorial, is the most common presentation. Understanding the mechanisms driving anemia in this population is crucial to ensure appropriate treatment. The primary etiologies include nutritional deficiency, anemia of unknown cause, and anemia of chronic diseases, including CKD. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying anemia in elderly patients with CKD. Full article

Background: Wernicke Encephalopathy (WE), a neurological disorder often linked to alcohol use, can also occur under non-alcoholic conditions, including in pediatric populations. Methods: This systematic review examines 88 pediatric WE cases reported over the past 30 years, encompassing diverse etiologies such as cancer (25 cases), gastrointestinal diseases (19), malnutrition (17), psychiatric disorders (13), obesity surgery (5), renal disease (4), COVID-19 (2), PICU complications (1), hyperemesis gravidarum (1), and a genetic mutation (1). Results: Prodromal symptoms included nausea (60%) and vomiting (55%). In total, 37% of the patients received parenteral nutrition without thiamine before WE diagnosis, often progressing to Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS). Key findings revealed the classic triad of WKS, eye movement disorders (80%), mental status changes (75%), and ataxia (63%), with MRI demonstrating high diagnostic sensitivity (85%). Treatment varied widely; higher parenteral thiamine doses correlated with faster recovery and better outcomes, while insufficient dosages led to adverse effects. Full remission was achieved in 61% of cases, with improved outcomes in more recent reports due to refined dosing protocols. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of early recognition of nausea and vomiting as predictors of pediatric WE and the critical need to incorporate thiamine in parenteral nutrition for children. Optimal dosing remains vital for recovery, particularly in severe cases. Full article

Chronic diseases have emerged as a significant challenge in global public health due to their complex etiologies, prolonged disease courses, and high treatment costs. With the aging population and changes in lifestyle, the number of patients with chronic diseases has increased dramatically, which has brought heavy burden to families and society. Chronic diseases are often accompanied by digestive and absorptive disorders as well as metabolic disorders, resulting in insufficient nutrient intake, further worsening the condition and weakening the physique. Therefore, the importance of nutritional intervention in chronic disease management has become increasingly prominent. As an important means of nutritional intervention, enteral nutrition plays a key role in improving the nutritional status of patients, promoting rehabilitation, shortening hospital stay and so on, thereby providing a new solution for chronic disease management. This article reviews the current application status, mechanism of action and comprehensive benefit of enteral nutrition in the clinical management of chronic diseases. Through systematic review and analysis of existing research findings, the specific application effects and mechanisms of enteral nutrition in chronic disease management are clarified. This review aims to promote the popularization and application of enteral nutrition, in order to effectively improve patients’ treatment outcomes and quality of life, provide scientific evidence for the optimization of clinical management strategies for chronic diseases, and offer theoretical support for the development of enteral nutrition products, and thereby drive the continuous improvement of chronic disease management. Full article

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the exocrine pancreas that is a common indication for hospital admission and has had an increasing incidence in the last few decades. The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis requires the satisfaction of two out of three criteria: (1) abdominal pain radiating to the back, (2) serum lipase or amylase levels three or more times the upper limit of the normal level, and (3) findings indicating pancreatitis obtained via a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The different etiologies include gallstones, autoimmune disorders, alcohol abuse, smoking, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, drugs, and post-endoscope retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The initial investigation includes serum amylase and lipase analysis, a lipid panel including triglycerides, analysis of immunoglobulins, a full blood count, electrolyte analysis, a hemoglobin A1c test, a complete metabolic panel, and transabdominal ultrasound. The initial therapy includes oxygen supplementation, the provision of intravenous fluids, pain control, and a nutrition regime. Early oral feeding is encouraged if tolerated; if not, liquid supplement provision or enteral tube feeding within 48 h of admission has shown better outcomes. Some complications of acute pancreatitis are necrosis, infection, insulin resistance leading to diabetes mellitus, and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency requiring enzyme supplementation. Patients need to attend regular follow-ups and abstain from alcohol and smoking (if warranted) to prevent the recurrence of acute pancreatitis. The mortality rate of acute pancreatitis has decreased in the past few decades because of better management skills, but the recent rise in acute pancreatitis episodes is concerning. Sustained endeavors through clinical trials are required to establish a broad variety of drugs that can be used for acute pancreatitis episodes. Full article

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, alongside repetitive behaviors, and atypical sensory-motor patterns. The growing prevalence of ASD has driven substantial advancements in research aimed at understanding its etiology, preventing its onset, and mitigating its impact. This ongoing effort necessitates continuous updates to the body of knowledge and the identification of previously unexplored factors. The present study addresses this need by examining the roles of nutrition, oxidative stress, and trace elements in the pathophysiology of ASD. In this review, an overview is provided of the key dietary recommendations for individuals with ASD, including gluten-free and casein-free (GFCF) diets, ketogenic diets (KDs), and other nutritional interventions. Furthermore, it explores the involvement of oxidative stress in ASD and highlights the significance of trace elements in maintaining neuropsychiatric health. The impact of these factors on molecular and cellular mechanisms was discussed, alongside therapeutic strategies and their efficacy in managing ASD. Full article

Schizophrenia is a complex heterogenous disorder thought to be caused by interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The theories developed to explain the etiology of schizophrenia have focused largely on the dysfunction of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and glutamate with their receptors, although research in the past several decades has indicated strongly that other factors are also involved and that the role of neuroglial cells in psychotic disorders including schizophrenia should be given more attention. Although glia were originally thought to be present in the brain only to support neurons in a physical, metabolic and nutritional capacity, it has become apparent that these cells have a variety of important physiological roles and that abnormalities in their function may make significant contributions to the symptoms of schizophrenia. In the present paper, we review the interactions of brain microglia, astrocytes and oligodendroglia with aspects such as transmitter dysregulation, neuro-inflammation, oxidative stress, synaptic function, the gut microbiome, myelination and the blood–brain barrier that appear to affect the cause, development and treatment of schizophrenia. We also review crosstalk between microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes and the effects of antipsychotics on neuroglia. Problems associated with studies on specific biomarkers for glia in schizophrenia are discussed. Full article

Background: Autism spectrum disorder is a multifactorial phenomenon whose genetic, biological, environmental, and nutritional factors outline the heterogeneous phenotype of the disease. A limitation in social connections with others, stereotyped reactions, and specific interests and preferences characterize the behavioral manifestations of a person with autism. Also, weaknesses are found in emotional, cognitive, and metacognitive development, significantly burdening the individual’s quality of life. Lately, it has gained widespread acceptance that the gut microbiome and neurotransmission constitute two decisive etiological factors of autism both in the prenatal period and postnatally. This study aims to investigate data on the interaction between the quantitative and qualitative composition of the gut flora and neurotransmission in humans, as well as their influences on the appearance and progression of the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. At the same time, it captures the role of digital technology in diagnosing and intervening in autism, which is mainly related to the individual subjects under study. Methods: The current research employs an exploratory review to provide a concise overview of the complex neuronal functions associated with neurotransmitter action and the homeostasis mechanisms that allow the brain and the human body to survive and perform optimally. Results: A review of 111 sources highlighted the connection of dietary habits with synthesizing and releasing neurotransmitters and their influence on the emergence of autism-related behaviors. Conclusions: The literature review’s findings revealed the importance and influence of nutritional factors on neurotransmission performance and behavioral, social, and cognitive development among individuals with autism. Moreover, it is noteworthy that combining a healthy lifestyle and the targeted use of digital tools can improve the intensity of autism symptoms. Full article

Background/Objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder with debilitating symptoms and multifactorial etiology. Nutritional factors during adult life have been implicated in IBD pathogenesis. In addition, there is growing evidence that maternal and early-life diet may be associated with intestinal inflammation and colitis severity. The aim of the current review was to detect and critically appraise all evidence regarding the role of maternal and early-life diet on intestinal inflammation. Methods: We performed a thorough search of the literature across two databases (Pubmed, ScienceDirect) using a variety of relevant terms. Results: A total of 23 studies, 16 experimental and 7 clinical, met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Experimental studies reveal that high-fat and high-protein diets during gestation and neonatal life induce gut dysbiosis, amplify intestinal inflammation, and exacerbate colitis. In addition, a variety of nutritional factors included in maternal diets may affect offspring’s microbiota composition and intestinal health. Human studies concluded that maternal diet quality and the intake of fish and vegetables and of food fortified with vitamin D during gestation and early infancy significantly decreased IBD risk. However, human data are limited, and larger investigations are needed to further clarify the complex associations between specific nutritional compounds and intestinal inflammation. Conclusions: Dietary factors during pregnancy and early-life are involved in IBD pathogenesis, exerting either an exacerbating or protective effect. Improving pregnant women’s dietary habits could be a cost-effective strategy to reduce future IBD burden. Full article

Anorexia nervosa is classified by the American Psychological Association as an eating-related mental disorder, which affects mostly young adult women and adolescent girls. Although refeeding programs are often used to recover bodyweight in patients with anorexia nervosa, treatment failures are high, and the determinants of the disorder remain unknown. The present paper uses a nutritional epidemiology perspective to examine determinants of anorexia nervosa from the patients’ point of view. A grounded-theory literature-review method was used to search and review research findings from the peer-reviewed literature related to the etiology of anorexia nervosa, including recent qualitative interviews with patients. Unlike a systematic review, a grounded theory method is more appropriate for developing a new theory to explain phenomena like the cause, recovery, and prevention of anorexia nervosa. Reviewed research suggests that anorexia nervosa may be a problematic body-change strategy rather than a mental disorder. Additionally, the present paper proposes that replacing the drive for thinness in anorexia nervosa with a drive for leanness may help patient recovery, especially when guided by easily accessible body-composition estimates. Fat-free mass restoration in the recovery of anorexia nervosa may also be facilitated by resistance training, which improves patients’ psychological status and body composition. Additionally, replacing a dysfunctional dieting strategy in anorexia nervosa with knowledge, skills, and experience in proper weight management has a potential preventive effect against the disorder. More research is needed to investigate the applied effects of the drive for leanness, body-composition assessments, resistance-training programs, and weight-management skills associated with the recovery and prevention of anorexia nervosa. Furthermore, successful application of the information in this paper may be adapted to peer role model programs to prevent anorexia nervosa. Full article

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder with a heterogeneous etiology encompassing societal and behavioral risk factors in addition to genetic and environmental susceptibility. The cardiovascular consequences of diabetes account for more than two-thirds of mortality among people with T2D. Not only does T2D shorten life expectancy, but it also lowers quality of life and is associated with extremely high health expenditures since diabetic complications raise both direct and indirect healthcare costs. An increasing body of research indicates a connection between T2D and gut microbial traits, as numerous alterations in the intestinal microorganisms have been noted in pre-diabetic and diabetic individuals. These include pro-inflammatory bacterial patterns, increased intestinal permeability, endotoxemia, and hyperglycemia-favoring conditions, such as the alteration of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion. Restoring microbial homeostasis can be very beneficial for preventing and co-treating T2D and improving antidiabetic therapy outcomes. This review summarizes the characteristics of a “diabetic” microbiota and the metabolites produced by microbial species that can worsen or ameliorate T2D risk and progression, suggesting gut microbiota-targeted strategies to restore eubiosis and regulate blood glucose. Nutritional supplementation, diet, and physical exercise are known to play important roles in T2D, and here their effects on the gut microbiota are discussed, suggesting non-pharmacological approaches that can greatly help in diabetes management and highlighting the importance of tailoring treatments to individual needs. Full article

Depression and anxiety are major public health issues; however, there is an unmet need for novel, effective, and accessible treatments, particularly in rural communities. Blueberries are an unexplored nutraceutical for these conditions due to their excellent nutritional profile, with particularly high levels of polyphenols and anthocyanins and benefits on mood, cognition, and health. Here, we present a narrative review of the literature concerning the etiology and treatments of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In both animal and human studies, blueberry supplementation can ameliorate behavioral symptoms of both anxiety and depression. The mechanistic underpinnings of these behavioral improvements are not fully defined, but likely involve biochemical alterations in the gut–brain axis, including to inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and growth factors. We also review the limitations of traditional therapies in rural settings. Finally, we assess the potential benefit of nutraceutical interventions, particularly blueberries, as novel therapeutics for these distinct, yet related mental health issues. Full article