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17 pages, 316 KB  
Article
Exploring Interactions Between Pre-Grazing Sward Height and Energy Supplementation on Beef Cattle Responses
by João Ricardo Rebouças Dórea, Diogo Fleury Azevedo Costa, Luis Agostinho, Bárbara Martins Brixner, Althieres José Furtado, Vinicius Nunes Gouvêa, Guilherme Lobato Menezes, Sila Carneiro Da Silva, Alexandre Vaz Pires and Flávio Augusto Portela Santos
Ruminants 2026, 6(3), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants6030084 (registering DOI) - 21 Sep 2026
Abstract
This study evaluated the interaction between energy supplementation and pre-grazing sward height on grazing behavior, nutrient intake, digestion, and nitrogen metabolism of cattle. Eight rumen-cannulated Nellore steers (24 mo; 343 ± 7.4 kg BW) grazed palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) managed [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the interaction between energy supplementation and pre-grazing sward height on grazing behavior, nutrient intake, digestion, and nitrogen metabolism of cattle. Eight rumen-cannulated Nellore steers (24 mo; 343 ± 7.4 kg BW) grazed palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) managed at 25 or 35 cm pre-grazing height until a 15 cm post-grazing target. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial structure: two sward heights and two supplementation levels (mineral supplement only or ground corn at 0.6% BW, DM basis). The experiment was conducted as two replicated 4 × 4 Latin squares, with eight animals, four treatments, and four experimental periods. An interaction (p = 0.02) showed that supplementation reduced grazing time only at 35 cm. Steers grazing 25 cm swards spent less time grazing, rested more, took fewer steps, had higher bite rates, and consumed more forage (p < 0.05). Supplementation reduced forage intake but increased total DM intake, improved forage NDF and total DM digestibility, increased microbial protein synthesis, enhanced nitrogen retention, reduced ruminal ammonia-N, urinary N losses, and the acetate:propionate ratio (p ≤ 0.05). Steers grazing 25 cm swards also exhibited greater ruminal ammonia-N, urinary N excretion, and nitrogen retention. Managing pastures at 25 cm improved forage harvesting efficiency, while energy supplementation enhanced rumen fermentation, nitrogen utilization, and overall grazing efficiency, with potential environmental benefits. Full article
30 pages, 1304 KB  
Review
Refeeding the Gut in Anorexia Nervosa: Microbiome, Nutritional Rehabilitation and Dietetic Care
by Panagiota Margioula, Alexandros Nakas, Lilian Adamidou, Eirini Simou, Petros Rafailidis, Theocharis Konstantinidis, Deny Tsakri, Christos Nikolaidis, Despoina Gyriki, Christina Tsigalou and Elisavet Stavropoulou
Nutrients 2026, 18(18), 3054; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18183054 - 18 Sep 2026
Viewed by 64
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is characterized by severe dietary restriction with effects that extend beyond body weight to gastrointestinal function, dietary tolerance and the gut microbiome. Weight restoration remains central to treatment, but studies suggest that microbial composition, microbial metabolites and gastrointestinal symptoms may [...] Read more.
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is characterized by severe dietary restriction with effects that extend beyond body weight to gastrointestinal function, dietary tolerance and the gut microbiome. Weight restoration remains central to treatment, but studies suggest that microbial composition, microbial metabolites and gastrointestinal symptoms may not recover at the same pace as body mass. This narrative review examines gut microbiome alterations in AN through the clinical context of refeeding and dietetic care. Human and translational studies describe changes in microbial diversity, including shifts in carbohydrate fermenting taxa and their downstream metabolic products such as short-chain fatty acids (including butyrate), mucin-degrading taxa, neuroactive fecal metabolites, immune markers and microbial functional pathways. During refeeding, the substrates available to the gut microbiome are shaped by planned increases in energy intake, the extent to which planned meals are consumed, gastrointestinal tolerance, oral supplement use, constipation, laxative exposure or other medication, dietary variety and the gradual return of fermentable substrates. Current intervention evidence does not support routine use of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics for weight restoration, eating-disorder psychopathology or targeted microbiome modulation. Fiber-containing foods, fermented foods and dietary diversity may be relevant to dietary substrate exposure and gastrointestinal tolerance, but their use during AN rehabilitation should be framed as pragmatic dietetic care rather than as established microbiome-specific treatment. Their introduction should remain secondary to adequate energy provision, tolerance, normalization of eating patterns and avoidance of reinforcing restrictive behaviors. Dietitians can translate microbiome-related knowledge into cautious nutritional decision-making while ensuring that patient care remains centered on rehabilitation, safety and dietary adequacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Neuro Sciences)
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57 pages, 3135 KB  
Review
Chrono-Nutritional Disruption as a Potential Modifiable Factor in Bipolar Disorder
by Marianna Mazza and Giuseppe Marano
Nutrients 2026, 18(18), 3011; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18183011 - 14 Sep 2026
Viewed by 292
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is characterized by marked circadian and metabolic vulnerability, but direct evidence linking the timing of food intake to its course remains sparse. This structured narrative review examines chrono-nutritional disruption, including irregular meal timing, nocturnal eating, prolonged or inconsistent fasting, eating-window variability, [...] Read more.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by marked circadian and metabolic vulnerability, but direct evidence linking the timing of food intake to its course remains sparse. This structured narrative review examines chrono-nutritional disruption, including irregular meal timing, nocturnal eating, prolonged or inconsistent fasting, eating-window variability, and eating jet lag, as a potential behavioral correlate and mechanistic contributor to bipolar instability. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for literature published from January 2000 to 30 June 2026, supplemented by predefined foundational studies. Evidence was organized as direct bipolar-specific, indirect human, or translational/preclinical. The strongest direct findings are cross-sectional associations involving night eating, eveningness, sleep disturbance, and functioning; bipolar-specific longitudinal and completed interventional evidence remains insufficient. Indirect human and experimental studies suggest that biologically mistimed eating can alter peripheral-clock entrainment, glucose–insulin regulation, cortisol rhythmicity, mitochondrial function, inflammatory signaling, and gut microbial rhythms. On this basis, we propose a hypothesis-generating chrono-metabolic model in which food timing may interact bidirectionally with sleep, mood state, medication effects, and metabolic health. Routine attention to nutritionally adequate and feasible meal regularity may be considered within broader monitoring of social rhythms, but it has not been shown independently to prevent relapse or improve mood outcomes. Time-restricted eating is investigational in bipolar disorder and should be evaluated only in carefully monitored research or specialist contexts. Prospective within-person studies and adequately powered trials are required before chrono-nutritional strategies can be regarded as evidence-based bipolar interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Neuro Sciences)
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22 pages, 4602 KB  
Article
Dissolution Behavior of Mineral Elements in Dahongpao Tea, Its Association with Flavor Quality, and Potential Contribution of Infusions to Dietary Reference Intakes
by Miao Jia, Miaoen Qiu, Yuhua Wang, Aiqi Wang, Xiaoli Jia, Jianghua Ye, Haibin Wang and Zeyan Wu
Foods 2026, 15(17), 3119; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15173119 - 2 Sep 2026
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Mineral elements affect tea nutritional and flavor quality, but systematic research on their dissolution behavior and links to volatile and taste profiles in Dahongpao tea is lacking, as is evidence regarding contribution to mineral intake for different populations. In this study, nine Dahongpao [...] Read more.
Mineral elements affect tea nutritional and flavor quality, but systematic research on their dissolution behavior and links to volatile and taste profiles in Dahongpao tea is lacking, as is evidence regarding contribution to mineral intake for different populations. In this study, nine Dahongpao teas were brewed five times. Eleven elements were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) with first-order kinetic fitting; volatile profiles were analyzed by electronic nose and taste attributes by electronic tongue; the contribution of tea infusions to dietary reference intakes was estimated from Chinese Dietary Reference Intakes (2023). The results showed that electronic nose analysis revealed distinct variation in volatile compound classes among the nine samples, with broad range and sulfur–organic compounds showing the highest response intensities. Electronic tongue analysis showed clear differences in taste profiles, particularly in astringency, umami, and sweetness, across the nine samples. Regarding dissolution behavior, Mg had the highest dissolution rate (67.24–70.94%), while Fe, Ca, K, and Zn were below 10%; dissolution followed first-order kinetics and total dissolved amounts correlated with total contents except for Fe. Network analysis integrating element data with volatile and taste profiles demonstrated that Mg and Mo contents were positively correlated with multiple volatile classes (e.g., sulfur–organic, broad range), while Ca, Mg, and Fe dissolution rates significantly correlated with richness and aftertaste-A, and Mo inversely correlated with sourness and saltiness. Contribution assessment showed that only Ca, K, Mg, and Se could be marginally supplemented, but the tea amounts needed far exceeded typical intake. In summary, element dissolution in Dahongpao tea is co-regulated by brew count and total content, with complex element–flavor interactions. Tea is not a primary mineral source; consumption should be individualized by age and physiological status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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26 pages, 4143 KB  
Article
Bovine Milk Whey Intake in Offspring Rats Shows Restorative Metabolic Effects Against Negative Fetal Programming Induced by Maternal Obesity
by Brenda Berenice Carranza-Castillo, Sergio Roberto Zamudio-Hernández and Lucia Quevedo-Corona
Obesities 2026, 6(4), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities6040057 - 6 Aug 2026
Viewed by 598
Abstract
Maternal obesity has been associated with offspring fetal programming, increasing the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and behavioral disorders such as anxiety and depression. Milk whey (MW) peptides, administered as a supplement, reduce food intake and [...] Read more.
Maternal obesity has been associated with offspring fetal programming, increasing the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and behavioral disorders such as anxiety and depression. Milk whey (MW) peptides, administered as a supplement, reduce food intake and body weight in overweight rodents. The aim of this work was to study the possible metabolic and behavioral restorative effects of a bovine MW supplement against the negative fetal programming of juvenile offspring. Dam Wistar rats were fed during gestation and lactation with a standard (SD) or a hypercaloric diet (HD); after weaning, the male offspring were fed SD or SD and MW. HD dams showed increases in blood cholesterol, body weight, and calorie intake, while administering MW in offspring from HD mothers reduced these alterations. Serum corticosterone, LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, and glucose intolerance were significantly higher in offspring from HD dams; however, MW did not affect these changes. Offspring from HD dams showed signs of anxiety that were not reversed by MW, as well as a reduction in hippocampal BDNF that was partially restored with MW. Maternal HD consumption during pregnancy and lactation elicited negative developmental programming of adult offspring metabolism, which was partially restored by bovine MW supplementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Nutrition, Obesity and Metabolic Diseases)
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14 pages, 1214 KB  
Article
Protective Effects of a Polyphenolic Fraction of Bergamot in Improving the Welfare Index in Honeybees (Apis mellifera) Co-Exposed to Deltamethrin and Flupyradifurone: A Laboratory Cage Study
by Roberto Bava, Fabio Castagna, Rosa Maria Bulotta, Stefano Ruga, Giovanna Liguori, Carmine Lupia, Saverio Nucera, Carolina Muscoli, Vincenzo Mollace and Ernesto Palma
Animals 2026, 16(15), 2374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16152374 - 3 Aug 2026
Viewed by 366
Abstract
The simultaneous presence of multiple pesticide residues in the environment impairs honeybee health and survival. The toxicological interactions could result in additive, synergistic, or antagonistic effects as documented in previous studies. In most cases, the co-exposure produces an amplification of the singular toxicity, [...] Read more.
The simultaneous presence of multiple pesticide residues in the environment impairs honeybee health and survival. The toxicological interactions could result in additive, synergistic, or antagonistic effects as documented in previous studies. In most cases, the co-exposure produces an amplification of the singular toxicity, resulting in additive or synergistic effects. More rarely, the interaction of active principles leads to antagonistic effects. Previous studies demonstrated that deltamethrin (DMT, a type II pyrethroid) and flupyradifurone (FLU, a butenolide insecticide) produce antagonistic toxicity when co-administered orally to caged Apis mellifera workers, and that dietary supplementation with the bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) independently protects against FLU- and DMT-induced intoxication. The present study investigates the three-way interaction of DMT, FLU, and BPF on honeybees. Survival rate, solution consumption, and abnormal behavior have been recorded over a 72-h exposure period in groups of twenty caged honeybees orally treated with DMT (21.6 mg/L), FLU (50 or 100 mg/L), their binary combinations, or their ternary combinations with BPF (1 mg/kg). Results demonstrate that BPF alone did not differ from control (p > 0.05) at any time point, confirming its safety. Binary combinations of DMT and FLU showed antagonistic survival profiles consistent with our previous report. The addition of BPF to both binary pesticide combinations significantly improved survival (p < 0.001), reduced abnormal behavioral frequencies (p < 0.05), and increased solution intake (p < 0.05) compared to the respective DMT + FLU groups. These results suggest that BPF exerts a protective effect that extends to complex multi-pesticide exposure scenarios. These effects may be associated with antioxidant and detoxification-related pathways, although further biochemical and molecular analyses are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Full article
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24 pages, 1674 KB  
Article
Antioxidant Capacity of Seminal Plasma and Its Association with Semen Quality and Dietary Antioxidant Intake
by Georgia Lagodonti, Dimitrios Kalompatsios, Panagiotis Varagiannis, Vassilis Athanasiadis and Stavros I. Lalas
Nutrients 2026, 18(15), 2423; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18152423 - 24 Jul 2026
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a growing public health concern, with lifestyle and dietary factors increasingly recognized as contributors to impaired sperm function. Oxidative stress plays a central role in sperm damage, yet the relationship between seminal antioxidant capacity, dietary antioxidant intake and semen [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a growing public health concern, with lifestyle and dietary factors increasingly recognized as contributors to impaired sperm function. Oxidative stress plays a central role in sperm damage, yet the relationship between seminal antioxidant capacity, dietary antioxidant intake and semen quality remains unclear. This study investigated the association between seminal plasma antioxidant status, sperm quality parameters and dietary antioxidant intake, while accounting for key lifestyle factors. Methods: A total of 105 men (18–55 years) undergoing semen analysis were enrolled. Semen parameters were evaluated according to the WHO guidelines. Seminal plasma antioxidant capacity was assessed using the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and DPPH radical scavenging assays. Dietary antioxidant intake was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, supplement use) were recorded. Correlations and multivariable regression models were applied to examine associations between antioxidant indices and semen quality. Results: Seminal antioxidant capacity showed wide inter-individual variability (FRAP: 1.6–2171.4 μmol Trolox eq/L; DPPH: 28.5–3093.2 μmol Trolox eq/L). Dietary antioxidant intake demonstrated very weak correlations with semen parameters (r < 0.20). Regression analyses identified smoking and higher body weight as strong negative predictors of sperm concentration, total count and motility, whereas physical activity was positively associated with morphology and progressive motility. FRAP exhibited a mixed association with motility subtypes, while supplement use was positively associated with vitality. Conclusions: Lifestyle factors—particularly smoking, body weight and physical activity—were stronger determinants of semen quality than dietary antioxidant intake or seminal antioxidant indices. These findings highlight the importance of modifiable behaviors in male reproductive health and suggest that improving lifestyle habits may offer greater benefits than dietary antioxidant intake alone. Full article
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17 pages, 765 KB  
Article
Multicomponent Nutritional Support for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Exploratory Pilot Study in Vietnam
by Ngoc Dieu Thi Phan, Toan Thi Thanh Do, Tuan Van Nguyen, Ngoc Bao Trinh, Huy Gia Ngo, Hoa Thi Ho, Tam Thi Thanh Le and Hiep Tri Ngo
Pediatr. Rep. 2026, 18(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric18040097 - 13 Jul 2026
Viewed by 633
Abstract
Background: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently exhibit severe food selectivity and micronutrient deficiencies, impacting growth and nutritional status. Evidence on integrated nutritional interventions in resource-constrained settings remains limited. Objective: To assess the feasibility and preliminary pre–post changes associated with a 12-week [...] Read more.
Background: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently exhibit severe food selectivity and micronutrient deficiencies, impacting growth and nutritional status. Evidence on integrated nutritional interventions in resource-constrained settings remains limited. Objective: To assess the feasibility and preliminary pre–post changes associated with a 12-week multicomponent nutritional intervention among Vietnamese children with ASD. Methods: In this exploratory single-arm pilot study, 56 children with ASD (mean age 59.0 ± 22.3 months; 80.4% male) were recruited from five community centers in Nghe An Province, Vietnam. The intervention comprised caregiver nutrition education, individualized dietary counseling, and daily multi-micronutrient supplementation. Anthropometric indicators, biochemical markers, feeding behaviors, and dietary intake were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Pre–post changes were evaluated using paired statistical tests, and multivariable linear regression examined factors associated with growth response. Results: The study achieved a 100% completion rate, with all 56 recruited participants finishing the 12-week intervention and all scheduled follow-up assessments. Among children < 60 months, mean Weight-for-Age Z-score (WAZ) increased from −0.66 to −0.28 and mean Height-for-Age Z-score (HAZ) from −1.18 to −0.97 (p < 0.001). For children older than 60 months, mean HAZ increased from −0.87 to −0.58 (p < 0.001) and Body Mass Index-for-Age Z-score (BAZ) from −0.20 to 0.06 (p = 0.006). Significant increases occurred in serum zinc (10.29 to 11.72 µmol/L; p = 0.001), ferritin (31.74 to 34.79 ng/mL; p = 0.001), and hemoglobin (122.73 to 124.77 g/L; p = 0.002), while albumin remained unchanged. Concurrent improvements were observed in feeding behaviors and nutrient-dense food intake. Regression analysis indicated that lower baseline anthropometric status was significantly associated with greater gains in WAZ and HAZ. Conclusions: This community-based multicomponent intervention was feasible and associated with short-term improvements in feeding behaviors, dietary intake, selected biomarkers, and growth measures in children with ASD, supporting further evaluation in randomized controlled trials. Full article
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45 pages, 11904 KB  
Review
Mechanistic Networks and Precision Intervention Strategies for Feed Intake Control in Sows: Bridging Reproductive Potential, Physiological Homeostasis and Swine Industry Production
by Haoliang Chai, Dexin Zhao, Xilong Yu, Shaoshuai Zhang, Fengjie Ji, Weiqi Peng, Jianlou Song, Xinping Diao and Hongzhi Wu
Agriculture 2026, 16(14), 1508; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16141508 - 11 Jul 2026
Viewed by 985
Abstract
The reproductive efficiency of modern breeding sows is commonly restricted by a mismatch between high genetic reproductive potential and insufficient voluntary feed intake during critical physiological periods. This review comprehensively examines the physiological, nutritional, and management mechanisms regulating feed intake in sows and [...] Read more.
The reproductive efficiency of modern breeding sows is commonly restricted by a mismatch between high genetic reproductive potential and insufficient voluntary feed intake during critical physiological periods. This review comprehensively examines the physiological, nutritional, and management mechanisms regulating feed intake in sows and their implications for reproductive performance, synthesizing recent advances across neuroendocrine regulation, metabolic signaling, immune-related pathways, and precision feeding strategies. We construct an integrated framework involving three core dimensions: (1) Physiological regulation: the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal, hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal, and hypothalamic–pituitary–spleen axes functionally interact via shared neuroimmune pathways within the hypothalamic–pituitary–immune axis, coordinately regulating feeding patterns and reproductive cyclicity through core hormonal and inflammatory signaling molecules. Perinatal stress induces pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, activates the intestinal JAK-STAT3 pathway, and upregulates intestinal hepcidin expression, impairing intestinal barrier integrity and triggering persistent inflammation. These peripheral inflammatory signals modulate hypothalamic neuropeptide Y and Proopiomelanocortin expression, forming a negative feedback loop that suppresses feeding behavior. (2) Nutritional regulation: dietary nutrients and specific flavor compounds reshape intestinal satiety signaling, improving piglet growth performance and survival rates, while optimized dietary composition and functional additive supplementation enhance sow feed intake capacity. (3) Management strategies: standardized feeding regimes and optimal rearing environments regulate nutrient digestion and gut hormone secretion. Major knowledge gaps include the translational potential of precision nutrition approaches, biomarker validation for feed intake monitoring, and the scalability of integrated interventions under commercial production conditions. This review provides a multidimensional framework integrating physiological, nutritional, and management strategies to enhance sow feed intake, offering theoretical insights and practical guidance for sustainable pig production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farm Animal Production)
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21 pages, 3794 KB  
Review
Nutritional Strategies to Mitigate Heat Stress in Cattle: A Narrative Review
by Rajan Dhakal, Volker Krömker, Michael Van Amburgh, Niels Moritz, Christine Brøkner, André Luis Alves Neves and Svenja Woudstra
Microorganisms 2026, 14(7), 1511; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14071511 - 10 Jul 2026
Viewed by 927
Abstract
Heat stress is a growing concern in cattle production systems due to the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events driven by climate change. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the multifaceted impacts of heat stress and focuses on nutritional strategies to [...] Read more.
Heat stress is a growing concern in cattle production systems due to the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events driven by climate change. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the multifaceted impacts of heat stress and focuses on nutritional strategies to mitigate its effects on ruminating cattle. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Heat stress adversely affects cattle physiology, behavior, rumen function, and overall productivity, particularly in dairy animals with high metabolic activity. During heat stress episodes, changes in the microbial population have been reported; however, there is no clear consensus, as findings vary widely among studies depending on diet, feed intake, animal type and experimental design. This variability limits the ability to draw general conclusions regarding changes in the rumen microbiome driven by heat stress. In this context, dietary nutritional intervention strategies offer a practical and scalable approach to enhance thermotolerance and maintain performance under heat stress conditions. Key nutritional strategies include modifications in diet composition to reduce metabolic heat production, with some approaches carrying potential risks to animal health, e.g., increasing dietary energy density through concentrates while minimizing forage content. Supplementation with rumen-protected nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals can be used to support immune function, antioxidant capacity, and metabolic stability. Polyphenols and betaine contribute to oxidative stress reduction and gut integrity, while probiotics may be used to improve rumen fermentation and nutrient utilization. Sensor technologies, including rumen boluses and wearable devices, offer the potential to monitor physiological responses to heat stress in real time and offer opportunities for precision feeding and early intervention. Most published studies only cover short periods of heat stress, and there is a lack of in vitro models simulating rumen hyperthermia. In parallel, future research should therefore prioritize longitudinal, in vivo trials that integrate physiological, metabolic, and microbial responses to understand the long term and systemic effect of heat stress. In addition, controlled trials in commercial settings are necessary to prove the transferability of results to commercial herds. A multidisciplinary approach combining nutritional, environmental, and technological strategies is likely to play an important role in safeguarding cattle welfare and productivity in a warming climate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Microorganisms)
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20 pages, 1342 KB  
Review
The Interactions Between Circadian Rhythm, Gut Microbiota, and Anxiety: From Mechanisms to Intervention Strategies
by Yijin Wu, Jiaqi Wang, Lumei Kang and Xiaojuan Wan
Nutrients 2026, 18(13), 2209; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18132209 - 7 Jul 2026
Viewed by 1210
Abstract
The circadian rhythm is an internal timing system formed by the body’s adaptation to the Earth’s rotation, which helps maintain homeostasis by regulating physiological, metabolic, and behavioral activities. The gut microbiota (GM), the largest microbial ecosystem in the human body, exhibits a bidirectional [...] Read more.
The circadian rhythm is an internal timing system formed by the body’s adaptation to the Earth’s rotation, which helps maintain homeostasis by regulating physiological, metabolic, and behavioral activities. The gut microbiota (GM), the largest microbial ecosystem in the human body, exhibits a bidirectional regulatory relationship with the host circadian clock. Emerging evidence indicates that circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) is linked to disturbances in the diurnal oscillations and compositional balance of the GM, accompanied by reduced short-chain fatty acid levels, increased lipopolysaccharide leakage, and altered tryptophan metabolism. These microbial abnormalities may be involved in anxiety-like behaviors through three major pathways: neuroendocrine (hyperactivation of the HPA axis), immune (microglia-mediated neuroinflammation), and neurotransmitter (imbalance of the serotonergic and dopaminergic systems). Conversely, microbial metabolites such as butyrate and secondary bile acids may reciprocally regulate peripheral clock gene expression, forming a complex “circadian rhythm–GM–anxiety” interaction network. This review summarizes the molecular basis of circadian–GM interactions, potential GM-mediated mechanisms linking CRD with anxiety, and emerging intervention strategies including chrononutrition (time-restricted feeding, sequential nutrient intake), microbiota-targeted therapies (probiotics/prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation), and light therapy and melatonin supplementation. Future directions should focus on cell-specific mechanisms using single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, developing personalized interventions that integrate chronotype and microbiome profiling, and conducting large-scale randomized controlled trials to facilitate clinical translation. This review provides a framework for understanding the integrative role of circadian biology and gut microbiota in anxiety and may help develop precision intervention paradigms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics)
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30 pages, 3446 KB  
Article
Effects of Hydrogen Enrichment on Combustion Stability, Pressure Behavior, Harmonic Response, and Emissions in a Marine Auxiliary Diesel Engine
by Petros G. Savva
Energies 2026, 19(13), 3214; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19133214 - 7 Jul 2026
Viewed by 345
Abstract
Hydrogen supplementation in compression-ignition diesel engines is increasingly investigated as a practical retrofit approach for reducing the environmental impact of existing marine and stationary diesel power systems. This study examines the effects of hydrogen enrichment on combustion stability, pressure behavior, harmonic response, fuel [...] Read more.
Hydrogen supplementation in compression-ignition diesel engines is increasingly investigated as a practical retrofit approach for reducing the environmental impact of existing marine and stationary diesel power systems. This study examines the effects of hydrogen enrichment on combustion stability, pressure behavior, harmonic response, fuel consumption, and exhaust emissions in a 1966 Deutz A12L 714 marine auxiliary generator-set. The engine was operated at 900, 1200, and 1500 rpm with hydrogen supplied through the intake-air stream at flow rates up to 130.15 L/min. Results indicate that hydrogen enrichment improved fuel consumption and combustion-related dynamic behavior without increasing peak cylinder pressure or exhaust-gas temperature. Low-order vibration harmonics, particularly the 1X and 3X components associated with torque ripple and cyclic combustion variability, decreased with hydrogen addition. COV(Pmax) remained below 0.27% across all operating conditions, indicating preserved combustion stability, while hydrocarbon emissions and fuel consumption decreased by approximately 30% and 13%, respectively, at the highest hydrogen enrichment conditions. Phase-averaged pressure traces obtained showed virtually unchanged combustion-cycle structure and periodicity under maximum hydrogen enrichment. The findings indicate that hydrogen enrichment improves combustion stability and overall engine performance without increasing combustion severity, supporting its potential application as a retrofit solution for marine auxiliary engines, distributed generators, and other legacy diesel-engine systems. Full article
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13 pages, 1128 KB  
Review
Milk Intake, Sun Exposure, and Caffeinated Energy Drink Consumption in Children and Adolescents: Evidence, Uncertainty, and Implications for Peak Bone Mass Accrual
by Giorgos K. Sakkas, Ilias Ntoumas, Antonis Tsagkalis and Christina Karatzaferi
Nutrients 2026, 18(13), 2156; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18132156 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 1485
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for bone mineral accrual and future skeletal reserve. Milk intake, sun exposure and caffeinated energy drink consumption are familiar lifestyle concepts, but they differ substantially in biological proximity and evidential strength. This structured narrative review critically [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for bone mineral accrual and future skeletal reserve. Milk intake, sun exposure and caffeinated energy drink consumption are familiar lifestyle concepts, but they differ substantially in biological proximity and evidential strength. This structured narrative review critically evaluates these exposures in relation to peak bone mass accrual in youth. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched from database inception to 23 June 2026. Search terms combined pediatric population terms with bone outcomes and exposure terms related to milk/dairy, calcium, vitamin D, sun exposure, physical activity, sleep, caffeine and energy drinks. A literature collection flowchart and a GRADE-informed evidence appraisal table are provided to improve transparency and clinical interpretability. Results: Evidence is strongest for adequate calcium intake, calcium-rich foods and weight-bearing physical activity as modifiable contributors to skeletal accrual. Vitamin D is essential for mineral homeostasis, but supplementation effects on bone density in otherwise healthy children are context-dependent and appear most relevant for deficiency prevention or treatment. Milk intake is best interpreted as a practical marker of calcium-rich dietary patterns rather than as the only route to calcium adequacy. Sun exposure is an indirect determinant of vitamin D status and is modified by season, latitude, skin pigmentation, clothing, sunscreen, adiposity and outdoor behavior. Direct evidence linking caffeinated energy drinks to impaired pediatric bone accrual is very limited. The relevance of caffeinated energy drink intake is better framed as indirect and hypothesis-generating, through possible displacement of calcium-rich beverages, sleep disruption and clustering with poorer lifestyle patterns. Conclusions: A prevention framework for pediatric bone health should emphasize calcium adequacy, avoidance of vitamin D deficiency, mechanical loading and correct pediatric DXA interpretation using Z-scores. Energy drinks can be included as a lifestyle concern, but conclusions should remain cautious because direct skeletal evidence is limited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)
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12 pages, 721 KB  
Article
Differences in Micronutrient Knowledge, Beliefs, and Supplementation Practices Between Pregnant Women and Healthcare Providers: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Anna Elisabeth Hentrich, Dörthe Brüggmann, Samira Catharina Hoock, Lukas Jennewein, Frank Louwen and Eileen Deuster
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1934; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121934 - 15 Jun 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 477
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Adequate micronutrient intake during pregnancy is critical for fetal development, yet whether pregnant women and healthcare professionals share consistent knowledge, beliefs, and supplementation practices remains poorly characterized. Methods: Two parallel cross-sectional surveys using identical core items were conducted at a German tertiary [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Adequate micronutrient intake during pregnancy is critical for fetal development, yet whether pregnant women and healthcare professionals share consistent knowledge, beliefs, and supplementation practices remains poorly characterized. Methods: Two parallel cross-sectional surveys using identical core items were conducted at a German tertiary care center between April and November 2024. Pregnant women (n = 132) and healthcare professionals who initiated the survey (n = 105) completed anonymous QR-code-based questionnaires assessing micronutrient-related knowledge, perceived dietary adequacy, and supplementation practices or recommendation patterns. Comparative analyses were restricted to fully completed healthcare professional questionnaires (n = 80). Group differences were analyzed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Results: Healthcare professionals demonstrated higher knowledge levels across most micronutrients. Knowledge gaps were most pronounced for vitamin B12, with 53.0% of pregnant women unable to identify any fetal effect compared with 20.0% of providers (p < 0.001). Beliefs about dietary sufficiency were broadly aligned for folic acid (p = 0.452) and vitamin D (p > 0.999), but diverged markedly for vitamin B12, where 79.2% of providers considered dietary intake alone adequate compared with 47.3% of pregnant women (p < 0.001). Substantial differences were observed between patient-reported supplementation practices and provider-reported recommendation patterns: Vitamin B12 (70.0% vs. 3.8%), vitamin D (76.2% vs. 41.3%), omega-3 fatty acids (76.2% vs. 47.5%), and folic acid (98.5% vs. 81.3%; all p < 0.001). The internet was the most frequently cited information source among pregnant women (89.4%), while healthcare professionals reported using both scientific literature (75.0%) and internet-based resources (76.3%), the latter primarily for accessing professional and scientific information. Conclusions: Substantial patient–provider differences in micronutrient knowledge, beliefs, and supplementation practices persist even within a highly educated population at a tertiary care center. These findings suggest potential differences between patient-reported supplementation behavior and provider-reported recommendation practices, particularly for vitamin B12 and vitamin D. These findings suggest that more structured communication regarding micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy is needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Maternal Nutrition for Maternal Health and Infant Outcomes)
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Article
Effects of Carbonated and Electrolyte-Added Water on Body Fluid Regulation and Ingestive Behavior During Ad Libitum Rehydration Following Mild Hypohydration
by Akira Takamata, Natsumi Kosugi, Nanako Sakagawa, Aoi Takahashi, Fuka Nishino, Mio Nishimaki, Yasushi Tanaka, Makoto Kobayashi, Chihiro Nitta, Moeno Aihara, Yuka Hasegawa, Motoko Kobayashi and Takanobu Takihara
Nutrients 2026, 18(12), 1846; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18121846 - 8 Jun 2026
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Abstract
Purpose: Maintaining fluid homeostasis is crucial, and replenishing electrolytes—particularly sodium (Na+)—is critical for effective rehydration after thermal hypohydration. Despite the growing consumption of carbonated water (CW), its impact on post-hypohydration body fluid balance, either alone or combined with electrolytes, remains [...] Read more.
Purpose: Maintaining fluid homeostasis is crucial, and replenishing electrolytes—particularly sodium (Na+)—is critical for effective rehydration after thermal hypohydration. Despite the growing consumption of carbonated water (CW), its impact on post-hypohydration body fluid balance, either alone or combined with electrolytes, remains inadequately investigated. Therefore, this study was designed to examine the separate and interactive effects of carbonation and electrolyte provision in rehydration fluids—utilizing a 2 × 2 factorial design (carbonation × electrolytes)—on ingestive behavior and systemic fluid balance following mild thermal stress-induced hypohydration. Methods: Subjects (eight women and seven men, age range: 19–25 years) were dehydrated by performing three bouts of stepping exercise for 20 min, separated by 10 min of rest, at 25 °C. Following the dehydration protocol, subjects ingested pure water (W), CW (gas volume, 3.43 ± 0.20 (mean ± standard deviation)), electrolyte-added water (EW), or electrolyte-added CW (ECW) (gas volume, 3.04 ± 0.29 (mean ± standard deviation)) ad libitum. EW and ECW contained 19 mEq/L Na+. We assessed ingestive behavior and body fluid balance during the 180 min rehydration period. Results: The dehydration protocol induced hypohydration by ~10 g/kg body weight (~1% of body weight). Cumulative fluid intake was greater in the W trial than in the CW, EW, and ECW trials. Cumulative urine output was greater in the W and CW trials than in the EW trial. The fluid retention ratio was greater in the EW and ECW trials than in the CW trial. Consequently, the final fluid recovery was lower in the CW trial compared to the W, EW, and ECW trials; however, the combination of carbonation and electrolytes (ECW) did not significantly surpass the non-carbonated trials (W and EW) due to the reduced intake volume caused by carbonation. Conclusions: The data suggest that ad libitum ingestion of carbonated water is less effective than plain water for recovering from mild hypohydration (~1% body weight loss), as it reduces spontaneous fluid intake. However, electrolyte supplementation mitigates this reduced recovery by attenuating diuresis and consequently improving fluid retention ratio. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sports Nutrition)
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