bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Problem of Vitamin D Scarcity: Cultural and Genetic Solutions by Indigenous Arctic and Tropical Peoples
Authors: Frost Peter
Published: October 2022

Vitamin D metabolism differs among human populations because our species has adapted to different natural and cultural environments. Two environments are particularly difficult for the production of vitamin D by the skin: the Arctic, where the skin receives little solar UVB over the year; and the Tropics, where the skin is highly melanized and blocks UVB. In both cases, natural selection has favored the survival of those individuals who use vitamin D more efficiently or have some kind of workaround that ensures sufficient uptake of calcium and other essential minerals from food passing through the intestines. Vitamin D scarcity has either cultural or genetic solutions. Cultural solutions include consumption of meat in a raw or boiled state and extended breastfeeding of children. Genetic solutions include higher uptake of calcium from the intestines, higher rate of conversion of vitamin D to its most active form, stronger binding of vitamin D to carrier proteins in the bloodstream, and greater use of alternative metabolic pathways for calcium uptake. Because their bodies use vitamin D more sparingly, indigenous Arctic and Tropical peoples can be misdiagnosed with vitamin D deficiency and wrongly prescribed dietary supplements that may push their vitamin D level over the threshold of toxicity.
The Impact of Volume Overload on the Longitudinal Change of Adipose and Lean Tissue Mass in Incident Chinese Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Kam Kevin Ka-Ho , Tian Na , Than Win Hlaing , Cheng Phyllis Mei-Shan , Law Man-Ching , Pang Wing-Fai , Szeto Cheuk-Chun , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: October 2022

Patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) experience complex body composition changes that are not adequately reflected by traditional anthropometric parameters. While lean and adipose tissue mass can be readily assessed by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), there is concern about the potential confounding effect of volume overload on these measurements. This study aimed to assess the influence of fluid status (by echocardiography) on body composition parameters measured by BIS and to describe the longitudinal changes in adipose and lean tissue mass. We conducted a prospective observational study in a tertiary hospital. Incident Chinese PD patients underwent baseline echocardiography and repeated BIS measurements at baseline and 12 months later. Among 101 PD patients, lean tissue index (LTI) or fat tissue index (FTI) was not associated with echocardiographic parameters that reflected left ventricular filling pressure (surrogate of volume status). Sixty-eight patients with repeated BIS had a significant increase in body weight and FTI, while LTI remained similar. Gains in fat mass were significantly associated with muscle wasting (beta = −0.71, p < 0.0001). Moreover, progressive fluid accumulation independently predicted decrease in FTI (beta = −0.35, p < 0.0001) but not LTI. Body composition assessments by BIS were not affected by fluid status and should be considered as part of comprehensive nutrition assessment in PD patients.
Prevention of Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Mice and Alteration of 5-Hydroxytryotamine Signaling by Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01
Authors: Qiu Bo , Zhu Lian , Zhang Shuobo , Han Shengyi , Fei Yiqiu , Ba Furong , Berglund Björn , Li Lanjuan , Yao Mingfei
Published: October 2022

Although Ligilactobacillus salivarius Li01 (Li01) has shown much promise in preventing multiple gastrointestinal diseases, the potential of the probiotic in alleviating constipation and the related mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the effects of Li01 were evaluated in a loperamide-induced constipation mouse model. The results demonstrated that Li01 intervention can relieve constipation symptoms by improving water content, quantity, and morphology of feces and act as an intestinal barrier structure protector. Furthermore, Li01 can modulate gut motility (gastrointestinal transit rate), the fluid transit-associated expression of aquaporins, and the serum parameters vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, and somatostatin. Constipation significantly increased the levels of 5-hydroxytryotamine (5-HT) in serum (p < 0.01) and decreased the levels in the intestine (p < 0.001). Due to its function of elevating the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1, this was reversed after Li01 treatment. Li01 also promoted the expression of 5-HT receptor 3 and 4, indicating that the 5-HT signaling pathway may play a critical role in the mechanism by which Li01 alleviate constipation symptoms. Additionally, Li01 significantly altered the gut microbiota composition by enhancing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and increasing the abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9 genera. Based on the above results, Li01 may have the potential to effectively alleviate constipation by regulating the 5-HT pathway and alteration of the gut microbiota.
Melatonin in Endometriosis: Mechanistic Understanding and Clinical Insight
Authors: Li Yiran , Hung Sze-Wan , Zhang Ruizhe , Man Gene Chi-Wai , Zhang Tao , Chung Jacqueline Pui-Wah , Fang Lanlan , Wang Chi-Chiu
Published: October 2022

Endometriosis is defined as the development of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Pathophysiology of this disease includes abnormal hormone profiles, cell survival, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, immunology, and inflammation. Melatonin is a neuroendocrine hormone that is synthesized and released primarily at night from the mammalian pineal gland. Increasing evidence has revealed that melatonin can be synthesized and secreted from multiple extra-pineal tissues where it regulates immune response, inflammation, and angiogenesis locally. Melatonin receptors are expressed in the uterus, and the therapeutic effects of melatonin on endometriosis and other reproductive disorders have been reported. In this review, key information related to the metabolism of melatonin and its biological effects is summarized. Furthermore, the latest in vitro and in vivo findings are highlighted to evaluate the pleiotropic functions of melatonin, as well as to summarize its physiological and pathological effects and treatment potential in endometriosis. Moreover, the pharmacological and therapeutic benefits derived from the administration of exogenous melatonin on reproductive system-related disease are discussed to support the potential of melatonin supplements toward the development of endometriosis. More clinical trials are needed to confirm its therapeutic effects and safety.
Nutrition for Cancer Survivors
Authors: Benetou Vassiliki
Published: October 2022

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide with tremendous burden for the individual and the society [...]
Life without Proteinase Activated Receptor 2 (PAR2) Alters Body Composition and Glucose Tolerance in Mice
Authors: Reynolds Thomas , Ives Stephen
Published: October 2022

The potential role of proteinase activated receptor 2 (PAR2) in the development of age-related obesity and insulin resistance is not well-understood. To address the hypothesis that deletion of PAR2 might ameliorate age-related obesity and impaired glucose homeostasis, we assessed body composition and insulin action in 18-month-old male PAR2 knockout (PAR2KO-AG), age-matched (AG) and young C57BL6 (YG, 6-month-old) mice. Body composition was measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and insulin action was assessed by glucose tolerance (GT), insulin tolerance (IT) and AICAR tolerance (AT) testing. AG mice weighed significantly more than YG mice (p = 0.0001) demonstrating age-related obesity. However, PAR2KO-AG mice weighed significantly more than AG mice (p = 0.042), indicating that PAR2 may prevent a portion of age-related obesity. PAR2KO-AG and AG mice had greater fat mass and body fat percentage than YG mice. Similar to body weight, fat mass was greater in PAR2KO-AG mice compared to AG mice (p = 0.045); however, only a trend for greater body fat percentage in PAR2KO-AG compared to AG mice was observed (p = 0.09). No differences existed in lean body mass among the PAR2KO-AG, AG, and YG mice (p = 0.58). With regard to insulin action, the area under the curve (AUC) for GT was lower in PAR2KO-AG compared to AG mice (p = 0.0003) and YG mice (p = 0.001); however, no differences existed for the AUC for IT or AT. Our findings indicate that age-related obesity is not dependent on PAR2 expression.
Preconception Dietary Inflammatory Index and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Based on Maternal Body Mass Index: Findings from a Japanese Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Kyozuka Hyo , Murata Tsuyoshi , Isogami Hirotaka , Imaizumi Karin , Fukuda Toma , Yamaguchi Akiko , Yasuda Shun , Sato Akiko , Ogata Yuka , Hosoya Mitsuaki , Yasumura Seiji , Hashimoto Koichi , Nishigori Hidekazu , Fujimori Keiya ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group
Published: October 2022

We aimed to examine the impact of a preconception pro-inflammatory diet on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) using singleton pregnancy data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study involving live births from 2011 to 2014. Individual meal patterns before pregnancy were used to calculate the dietary inflammatory index (DII). Participants were categorized according to DII quartiles 1–4 (Q1 and Q4 had the most pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory diets, respectively). The participants were stratified into five groups by pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI): G1 to G5 (<18.5 kg/m2, 18.5 to <20.0 kg/m2, 20.0 to <23.0 kg/m2, 23.0 to <25.0 kg/m2, and ≥25.0 kg/m2, respectively). A multiple logistic regression model was used to estimate the effect of the anti-inflammatory diet on GDM, early diagnosed (Ed)-GDM, and late diagnosed (Ld)-GDM in each BMI group. Trend analysis showed that the risk of GDM, Ed-GDM, and Ld-GDM increased with increased pre-pregnancy BMI values. In the G4 group, the risk of Ed-GDM increased in Q2 and Q4. This study suggests that, although higher maternal BMI increases the risk of GDM, the effect of a preconception pro-inflammatory diet on the occurrence of GDM depends on pre-pregnancy BMI. This result may facilitate personalized preconception counseling based on maternal BMI.
Health Determinants Associated with the Mediterranean Diet: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: San Onofre Bernat Nadia , Quiles i Izquierdo Joan , Trescastro-López Eva María
Published: October 2022

Introduction: The Mediterranean diet (MD) has been shown to be a good tool for the prevention of obesity and other chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and to have a low environmental impact. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between declared morbidity, lifestyles and other sociodemographic factors with high adherence to the MD (AMD) in an adult population in southeastern Spain. Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of a sample (n = 2728) representative of a non-institutionalized population ≥16 years. The data corresponded to the 2010-11 Nutrition Survey of the Valencian Community. The AMD was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener questionnaire. The association of variables and high AMD was assessed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression determining crude and adjusted odds ratios. Results: Multivariate analysis showed that age 45 years or older, living with a partner, eating between meals, and not smoking were associated with high AMD. The age groups 45–64 years and 65 years or older showed the strongest association with high AMD in both sexes. Conclusion: The investigation showed a generational loss of AMD. People older than 45 years and living in company are more likely to adhere to DM, the risk group being young people living alone and smokers.
The Relationship between Dietary Patterns and High Blood Glucose among Adults Based on Structural Equation Modelling
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Xie Wei , Tian Ting , Zhang Jingxian , Zhu Qianrang , Pan Da , Xu Dengfeng , Lu Yifei , Sun Guiju , Dai Yue
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the association between dietary patterns and high blood glucose in Jiangsu province of China by using structural equation modelling (SEqM). Methods: Participants in this cross-sectional study were recruited through the 2015 Chinese Adult Chronic Disease and Nutrition Surveillance Program in Jiangsu province using a multistage stratified cluster random sampling method. Dietary patterns were defined by exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the fitness of EFA. SEqM was used to investigate the association between dietary patterns and high blood glucose. Results: After exclusion, 3137 participants with complete information were analysed for this study. The prevalence of high blood glucose was 9.3% and 8.1% in males and females, respectively. Two dietary patterns: the modern dietary pattern (i.e., high in red meats and its products, vegetables, seafood, condiments, fungi and algae, main grains and poultry; low in other grains, tubers and preserves), and the fruit–milk dietary pattern (i.e., high in milk and its products, fruits, eggs, nuts and seeds and pastry snacks, but low in vegetable oils) were established. Modern dietary pattern was found to be positively associated with high blood glucose in adults in Jiangsu province (multivariate logistic regression: OR = 1.561, 95% CI: 1.025~2.379; SEqM: β = 0.127, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The modern dietary pattern—high intake of red meats—was significantly associated with high blood glucose among adults in Jiangsu province of China, while the fruit–milk dietary pattern was not significantly associated with high blood glucose.
Association of Diet-Related Systemic Inflammation with Periodontitis and Tooth Loss: The Interaction Effect of Diabetes
Authors: Feng Jie , Jin Kun , Dong Xiaomeng , Qiu Shi , Han Xianglong , Yu Yerong , Bai Ding
Published: October 2022

Diet is an important factor that can affect inflammatory processes. Diet-related systemic inflammation is closely linked to periodontitis and tooth loss. However, the role that systemic conditions play in influencing this association remains unclear. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2009 to 2014. Diet-related systemic inflammation was assessed by the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII). Multivariate Cox regression models were used to investigate the association between DII and periodontal results, including total periodontitis, tooth loss, severe tooth loss, and the number of teeth lost. The interaction effects between DII and established covariates were tested. Higher DII scores, corresponding to a higher pro-inflammatory potential of the diet, were associated with an increased risk of periodontitis and tooth loss among the 10,096 eligible participants. There was an interaction between diabetes and DII on total periodontitis (p = 0.0136). No significant interaction effect was detected between DII and other established covariates. Participants who consumed an anti-inflammatory diet, and did not have diabetes, experienced the lowest risks of periodontitis and tooth loss. However, in the context of diabetes, the efficacy of such a diet may be weakened or even eliminated. Dietary interventions to manage oral health problems may need to take the individual’s metabolic condition into account.
Efficacy and Safety of Polaprezinc-Based Therapy versus the Standard Triple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mahmoud Abdelrahman , Abuelazm Mohamed , Ahmed Ali Ashraf Salah , Abdalshafy Hassan , Abdelazeem Basel , Brašić James Robert
Published: October 2022

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is the most prevalent etiology of gastritis worldwide. H. pylori management depends mainly on antibiotics, especially the triple therapy formed of clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and proton pump inhibitors. Lately, many antibiotic-resistant strains have emerged, leading to a decrease in the eradication rates of H. pylori. Polaprezinc (PZN), a mucosal protective zinc-L-carnosine complex, may be a non-antibiotic agent to treat H. pylori without the risk of resistance. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a PZN-based regimen for the eradication of H. pylori. This study used a systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from WOS, SCOPUS, EMBASE, PubMed, and Google Scholar until 25 July 2022. We used the odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous outcomes presented with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). We registered our protocol in PROSPERO with ID: CRD42022349231. We included 3 trials with a total of 396 participants who were randomized to either PZN plus triple therapy (n = 199) or triple therapy alone (control) (n = 197). Pooled OR found a statistical difference favoring the PZN arm in the intention to treat and per protocol H. pylori eradication rates (OR: 2.01 with 95% CI [1.27, 3.21], p = 0.003) and (OR: 2.65 with 95% CI [1.55, 4.54], p = 0.0004), respectively. We found no statistical difference between the two groups regarding the total adverse events (OR: 1.06 with 95% CI [0.55, 2.06], p = 0.85). PZN, when added to the triple therapy, yielded a better effect concerning the eradication rates of H. pylori with no difference in adverse event rates, and thus can be considered a valuable adjuvant for the management of H. pylori. However, the evidence is still scarce, and larger trials are needed to confirm or refute our findings.
Efficacy of Flavonoids on Animal Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jiacheng , Zhang Haolin , Xin Xiyan , Zhu Yutian , Ye Yang , Li Dong
Published: October 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common gynecological endocrinopathies. Evidence suggest that flavonoids have beneficial effects on endocrine and metabolic diseases, including PCOS. However, high-quality clinical trials are lacking. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies to determine the flavonoids’ effects in animal models of PCOS. Three electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched from their inception to March 2022. The Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation’s risk of bias tool was used to assess methodological quality. The standardized mean difference was calculated with 95% confidence intervals as the overall effects. R was used for all statistical analyses. This study was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022328355). A total of eighteen studies, including 300 animals, met the inclusion criteria. Our analyses demonstrated that, compared to control groups, flavonoid groups showed a significantly lower count of atretic follicles and cystic follicles and the count of corpus luteum was higher. A significant reduction in the luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and free testosterone were observed in intervention groups. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in the effects of flavonoids on the level of FSH, estradiol, and progesterone. Subgroup analyses indicated that the type of flavonoid, dose, duration of administration, and PCOS induction drug were relevant factors that influenced the effects of intervention. Current evidence supports the positive properties of flavonoids on ovarian histomorphology and hormonal status in animal models of PCOS. These data call for more randomized controlled trials and further experimental studies investigating the mechanism in more depth.
Dietary Intake, Nutritional Adequacy, and Food Sources of Selected Antioxidant Minerals and Vitamins; and Their Relationship with Personal and Family Factors in Spanish Children Aged 1 to <10 Years: Results from the EsNuPI Study
Authors: Madrigal Casandra , Soto-Méndez María José , Hernández-Ruiz Ángela , Ruiz-López María Dolores , Samaniego-Vaesken María de Lourdes , Partearroyo Teresa , Varela-Moreiras Gregorio , Gil Ángel
Published: October 2022

Minerals and vitamins involved in the antioxidant defense system are essential for healthy growth and proper development during infancy. Milk and dairy products are of particular importance for improving the supply of these nutrients to children. Indeed, the present study aimed to evaluate the nutrient intake and food sources of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), retinol and carotenoids (sources of vitamin A), and vitamins C and E, and to analyze their relationships with personal and familiar factors in Spanish children from the EsNuPI study. One subpopulation representative of the Spanish population from 1 to <10 years old (n = 707) (reference group, REF) who reported consuming all types of milk over the last year, and another subpopulation of the same age who reported consuming fortified milk formulas (FMFs) (including follow-on formula, young child formula, growing up milk, toddler’s milk, and enriched and fortified milk) (n = 741) (fortified milk consumers, FMCs) completed two 24 h dietary recalls used to estimate their nutrient intakes and to compare them to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Dietary Reference Values (DRVs). The REF reported higher median intakes than FMCs for Se (61 µg/kg vs. 51 µg/kg) and carotenoids (1079 µg/day vs. 998 µg/day). Oppositely, FMCs reported higher intakes than REF for Zn (7.9 mg/day vs. 6.9 mg/day), vitamin A (636 µg/day vs. 481 µg/day), vitamin E (8.9 mg/day vs. 4.5 mg/day), vitamin C (113 mg/day vs. 71 mg/day), and retinol (376 µg/day vs. 233 µg/day). In the REF group, more than 50% of the children met the EFSA recommendations for Zn (79.6%), Se (87.1%), vitamin A (71.3%), and vitamin C (96.7%), respectively. On the other hand, 92.2% were below the EFSA recommendations for vitamin E. In the FMC group, more than 50% of the children met the EFSA recommendations for Zn (55.2%), Se (90.8%), vitamin A (75.7%), vitamin E (66.7%), and vitamin C (100%). We found statistically significant differences between subpopulations for all cases except for Se. In both subpopulations, the main sources of all antioxidant nutrients were milk and dairy products. For carotenoids, the main sources were vegetables and fruits followed by milk and dairy products. A high percentage of children had vitamins A and E intakes below the recommendations, information of great importance to stakeholders. More studies using intakes and biomarkers are needed, however, to determine an association with diverse factors of oxidative damage.
The Diet Quality of Food-Insecure Australian Adults—A Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Lindberg Rebecca , McNaughton Sarah A. , Abbott Gavin , Pollard Christina M. , Yaroch Amy L. , Livingstone Katherine M.
Published: October 2022

Poor diet quality exacerbates risks for acute and chronic conditions. People experiencing food insecurity have an increased likelihood of lower diet quality; however, this has not been investigated in the Australian context. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine whether the diet quality of Australian adults differed according to their household food security status. Data were analysed from a nationally representative sample (≥19 years; n = 9115) collected as part of the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey 2011-12. Household food security status and socio-demographic and health characteristics were assessed using data from an 18-module health interview. A 24 h dietary recall was used to estimate food and nutrient intakes and to calculate the Dietary Guidelines Index (DGI). DGI is a food-based score (0 to 130) that assesses adherence to the 2013 Australian Dietary Guidelines. Survey-weighted linear regression models, adjusted for age and sex, were used to examine diet quality (total DGI and component scores), and total energy and nutrient intake by food security status. Adults from food-insecure households had a mean total DGI score 3.5 points lower (95% CI −5.57, −1.46) than food-secure adults (p = 0.001). Adults from households experiencing food insecurity, when compared to those who were food-secure, had several lower DGI component scores including for dietary variety (1.6 vs. 2.3, p = 0.009), fruit (3.8 vs. 5.0, p = 0.001) and vegetables (3.7 vs. 4.4, p = 0.010). Adults from food-insecure households consumed on average more carbohydrates (45.6 vs. 43.3, p = 0.004) and total sugar (21.8 vs. 19.0, p = 0.003) as a percentage of daily energy and less protein (18.5 vs. 17.2, p = 0.004), mono-unsaturated fats (11.2 vs. 11.8, p = 0.026) as a percentage of daily energy, and fibre (20.1 vs. 23.0, p = 0.003), than food-secure adults. Sub-optimal diet may be one of the contributing factors to, or outcomes of, poorer health in food-insecure populations. Food security interventions are required to better address nutrition in food-insecure households and should be tailored to the health and socio-demographic characteristics of this population.
Treadmill Exercise Modulates Intestinal Microbes and Suppresses LPS Displacement to Alleviate Neuroinflammation in the Brains of APP/PS1 Mice
Authors: Yuan Shunling , Yang Jialun , Jian Ye , Lei Yong , Yao Sisi , Hu Zelin , Liu Xia , Tang Changfa , Liu Wenfeng
Published: October 2022

Neuroinflammation occurs throughout the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we investigated the effects of treadmill exercise on neuroinflammation in APP/PS1 transgenic AD mice and the potential involvement of microbe–gut–brain axis (MGB) mechanisms based on growing evidence that AD’s pathogenesis is correlated with a deterioration in the function of gut microbiota. APP/PS1 transgenic AD mice were subjected to 12 weeks of treadmill exercise, followed by spatial memory tests. After the behavioral study, the amyloid (Aβ) pathology, gut microbes and metabolites, bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) displacement, and degree of neuroinflammation were analyzed. We found that this strategy of exercise enriched gut microbial diversity and alleviated neuroinflammation in the brain. Notably, exercise led to reductions in pathogenic bacteria such as intestinal Allobaculum, increases in probiotic bacteria such as Akkermansia, increased levels of intestine–brain barrier proteins, and attenuated LPS displacement. These results suggest that prolonged exercise can effectively modulate gut microbes and the intestinal barrier and thereby reduce LPS displacement and ultimately alleviate AD-related neuroinflammation.
Breastfeeding in Phenylketonuria: Changing Modalities, Changing Perspectives
Authors: Zuvadelli Juri , Paci Sabrina , Salvatici Elisabetta , Giorgetti Federica , Cefalo Graziella , Re Dionigi Alice , Rovelli Valentina , Banderali Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

Phenylketonuria (PKU) management aims to control phenylalanine (Phe) intakes. In newborns and infants this implies possible titration of Human milk (HM) with supplementation of Phe-free formula. HM benefits, better if prolonged, are well known in healthy populations, suggesting it may be used in PKU patients. Despite that, the current literature does not define recommendations on how best perform it in such a population. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate nutrition approaches in newborns and infants affected by PKU and to define if differences can influence the duration of breastfeeding. Data from 42 PKU infants were reviewed. Of these, 67% were breastfed with the use of three different approaches. The type of approach used impacted the duration of breastfeeding, which was longer when using a pre-measured amount of Phe-free formula administered prior to HM. This is the first study to suggest a specific method for breastfeeding in PKU. Considering widely known breastfeeding benefits, both for patients and their mothers, our data should encourage adequate awareness on how to choose correct breastfeeding modalities.
Local Application of Krill Oil Accelerates the Healing of Artificially Created Wounds in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Hao Wenhao , Meng Huali , Li Hui , Zheng Yan , Song Chunhong , Jiang Ziping , Bai Xue , Zhang Zhiyue , Du Lei , Liu Pei , Wu Hao
Published: October 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) impairs the wound healing process, seriously threatening the health of the diabetic population. To date, few effective approaches have been developed for the treatment of diabetic wounds. Krill oil (KO) contains bioactive components that have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. As prolonged inflammation is a crucial contributor to DM-impaired wound healing, we speculated that the local application of KO would accelerate diabetic wound healing. Therefore, KO was applied to artificially created wounds of type 2 diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin and high-fat diet. The diabetic mice had a delayed wound healing process compared with the non-diabetic control mice, with excessive inflammation, impaired collagen deposition, and depressed neovascularization in the wound area. These effects were dramatically reversed by KO. In vitro, KO blocked the TNF-α-induced macrophage inflammation, fibroblast dysfunction, and endothelial angiogenic impairment. The present study in mice suggests that KO local application could be a viable approach in the management of diabetic wounds.
Detection of Bitterness in Vitamins Is Mediated by the Activation of Bitter Taste Receptors
Authors: Delompré Thomas , Belloir Christine , Martin Christophe , Salles Christian , Briand Loïc
Published: October 2022

Vitamins are known to generate bitterness, which may contribute to an off-taste or aftertaste for some nutritional supplements. This negative sensation can lead to a reduction in their consumption. Little is known about the bitter taste threshold and taste sensing system for the bitter taste detection of vitamins. To better understand the mechanisms involved in bitterness perception, we combined taste receptor functional assays and sensory analysis. In humans, bitter taste detection is mediated by 25 G-protein-coupled receptors belonging to the TAS2R family. First, we studied the bitterness of thirteen vitamins using a cellular-based functional taste receptor assay. We found four vitamins that can stimulate one or more TAS2Rs. For each positive molecule–receptor combination, we tested seven increasing concentrations to determine the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) and the cellular bitter taste threshold. Second, we measured the bitter taste detection threshold for four vitamins that exhibit a strong bitter taste using a combination of ascending series and sensory difference tests. A combination of sensory and biological data can provide useful results that explain the perception of vitamin bitterness and its real contribution to the off-taste of nutritional supplements.
Does Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods Matter for Liver Health? Prospective Analysis among Older Adults with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Konieczna Jadwiga , Fiol Miguel , Colom Antoni , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Corella Dolores , Soria-Florido María Trinidad , Martínez J. Alfredo , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M. , Wärnberg Julia , Vioque Jesús , López-Miranda José , Estruch Ramon , Bernal-López M. Rosa , Lapetra José , Serra-Majem Lluís , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Tur Josep A. , Martín Sánchez Vicente , Pintó Xavier , Gaforio José J. , Matía-Martín Pilar , Vidal Josep , Vázquez Clotilde , Daimiel Lidia , Ros Emilio , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Pascual María , Sorlí Jose V. , Goday Albert , Zulet María Ángeles , Moreno-Rodriguez Anai , Carmona González Francisco Jesús , Valls-Enguix Rafael , Janer Juana M. , Garcia-Rios Antonio , Casas Rosa , Gomez-Perez Ana M. , Santos-Lozano José Manuel , Basterra-Gortari F. Javier , Martínez María Ángeles , Ortega-Azorin Carolina , Bayó Joan , Abete Itziar , Salaverria-Lete Itziar , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Babio Nancy , Carres Lourdes , Romaguera Dora
Published: October 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) includes a spectrum of liver alterations that can result in severe disease and even death. Consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) has been associated with obesity and related comorbidities. However, the link between UPF and NAFLD has not been sufficiently assessed. We aimed to investigate the prospective association between UPF consumption and liver health biomarkers. Methods: We followed for 1 year 5867 older participants with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) from the PREDIMED-Plus trial. A validated 143-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate consumption of UPF at baseline, 6, and 12 months. The degree of processing for foods and beverages (g/day) was established according to the NOVA classification system. The non-invasive fatty liver index (FLI) and hepatic steatosis index (HSI) were used to evaluate liver health at three points in time. The associations between changes in UPF consumption (percentage of total daily dietary intake (g)) and liver biomarkers were assessed using mixed-effects linear models with repeated measurements. Results: In this cohort, UPF consumption at baseline was 8.19% (SD 6.95%) of total daily dietary intake in grams. In multivariable models, each 10% daily increment in UPF consumption in 1 year was associated with significantly greater FLI (β 1.60 points, 95% CI 1.24;1.96 points) and HSI (0.43, 0.29; 0.57) scores (all p-values < 0.001). These associations persisted statistically significant after adjusting for potential dietary confounders and NAFLD risk factors. Conclusions: A higher UPF consumption was associated with higher levels of NAFLD-related biomarkers in older adults with overweight/obesity and MetS.
Definition, Assessment, and Management of Vitamin D Inadequacy: Suggestions, Recommendations, and Warnings from the Italian Society for Osteoporosis, Mineral Metabolism and Bone Diseases (SIOMMMS)
Authors: Bertoldo Francesco , Cianferotti Luisella , Di Monaco Marco , Falchetti Alberto , Fassio Angelo , Gatti Davide , Gennari Luigi , Giannini Sandro , Girasole Giuseppe , Gonnelli Stefano , Malavolta Nazzarena , Minisola Salvatore , Pedrazzoni Mario , Rendina Domenico , Rossini Maurizio , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: October 2022

In the recent years, both the prescriptions of serum 25(OH)D levels assay, and vitamin D supplementation are constantly increasing, as well as the costs to be incurred relating to these specific aspects. As in many other countries, the risk of vitamin D deficiency is particularly high in Italy, as recently confirmed by cohort studies in the general population as well as in patients with metabolic bone disorder. Results confirmed the North-South gradient of vitamin D levels described among European countries, despite the wide use of supplements. Although vitamin D supplementation is also recommended by the Italian Medicine Agency for patients at risk for fragility fracture or for initiating osteoporotic medication, the therapeutic gap for osteoporosis in Italy is very high. There is a consistent proportion of osteoporotic patients not receiving specific therapy for osteoporosis following a fragility fracture, with a poor adherence to the recommendations provided by national guidelines and position paper documents. The failure or inadequate supplementation with vitamin D in patients on antiresorptive or anabolic treatment for osteoporosis is thought to further amplify the problem and exposes patients to a high risk of re-fracture and mortality. Therefore, it is important that attention to its possible clinical consequences must be given. Thus, in light of new evidence from the literature, the SIOMMMS board felt the need to revise and update, by a GRADE/PICO system approach, its previous original recommendations about the definition, prevention, and treatment of vitamin D deficiency in adults, released in 2011. Several key points have been here addressed, such as the definition of the vitamin D status: normality values and optimal values; who are the subjects considered at risk of hypovitaminosis D; opportunity or not of performing the biochemical assessment of serum 25(OH)D levels in general population and in subjects at risk of hypovitaminosis D; the need or not to evaluate baseline serum 25(OH)D in candidate subjects for pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis; how and whether to supplement vitamin D subjects with hypovitaminosis D or candidates for pharmacological treatment with bone active agents, and the general population; how and whether to supplement vitamin D in chronic kidney disease and/or chronic liver diseases or under treatment with drugs interfering with hepatic metabolism; and finally, if vitamin D may have toxic effects in the subject in need of supplementation.
External Validation of Equations to Estimate Resting Energy Expenditure in Critically Ill Children and Adolescents with and without Malnutrition: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Briassoulis George , Briassouli Efrossini , Ilia Stavroula , Briassoulis Panagiotis
Published: October 2022

We evaluated the validity of sixteen predictive energy expenditure equations for resting energy expenditure estimation (eREE) against measured resting energy expenditure using indirect calorimetry (REEIC) in 153 critically ill children. Predictive equations were included based on weight, height, sex, and age. The agreement between eREE and REEIC was analyzed using the Bland–Altman method. Precision was defined by the 95% limits of the agreement; differences > ±10% from REEIC were considered clinically unacceptable. The reliability was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha). The influence of anthropometric, nutritional, and clinical variables on REEIC was also assessed. Thirty (19.6%) of the 153 enrolled patients were malnourished (19.6%), and fifty-four were overweight (10.5%) or obese (24.8%). All patients received sedation and analgesia. Mortality was 3.9%. The calculated eREE either underestimated (median 606, IQR 512; 784 kcal/day) or overestimated (1126.6, 929; 1340 kcal/day) REEIC compared with indirect calorimetry (928.3, 651; 1239 kcal/day). These differences resulted in significant biases of −342 to 592 kcal (95% limits of agreement (precision)−1107 to 1380 kcal/day) and high coefficients of variation (up to 1242%). Although predicted equations exhibited moderate reliability, the clinically acceptable ±10% accuracy rate ranged from only 6.5% to a maximum of 24.2%, with the inaccuracy varying from −31% to +71.5% of the measured patient’s energy needs. REEIC (p = 0.017) and eREE (p < 0.001) were higher in the underweight compared to overweight and obese patients. Apart from a younger age, malnutrition, clinical characteristics, temperature, vasoactive drugs, neuromuscular blockade, and energy intake did not affect REEIC and thereby predictive equations’ accuracy. Commonly used predictive equations for calculating energy needs are inaccurate for individual patients, either underestimating or overestimating REEIC compared with indirect calorimetry. Altogether these findings underscore the urgency for measuring REEIC in clinical situations where accurate knowledge of energy needs is vital.
Nutritional Content of Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts
Authors: Craig Winston J. , Brothers Cecilia J.
Published: October 2022

There is a growing interest in non-dairy alternatives fueled by concerns about personal health and the health of the planet. Sales of non-dairy frozen desserts have increased along with other non-dairy alternatives such as plant-based beverages, cheeses, yogurts and creamers. The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional survey of plant-based frozen desserts to determine their nutritional content. A total of 358 plant-based frozen desserts were analyzed from the nutrition label listed on the commercial container. The various products were based upon coconut (n = 126), oat milk (n = 63), almonds (n = 42), cashews (n = 25), soy (n = 11), macadamia milk (n = 9), olive oil (n = 8), faba bean (n = 8), canola oil (n = 8), rice milk (n = 6), sunflower milk (n = 6), avocado (n = 5), pea protein (n = 5) and various fruits, nuts and mixed blends (n = 36). While 90% of the frozen desserts had high sugar levels, 73% had high levels of saturated fat (due to the presence of coconut oil) and only one in four had high levels of fat. None of the products were fortified with calcium, vitamin D or B12, but one in six products had iron levels/serving of at least 10% of Daily Value (DV) and 1 in 6 had protein levels/serving similar to regular dairy ice cream. Food manufacturers need to produce new non-dairy frozen desserts that are more nutritious, since few brands (such as those based upon avocado, apple and hemp protein, or fava bean) presently provide consumers choices with lower saturated fat and sugar levels and/or higher protein levels.
Plant-Based Dietary Patterns versus Meat Consumption and Prevalence of Impaired Glucose Intolerance and Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study in Australian Women
Authors: Baleato Courtney L. , Ferguson Jessica J. A. , Oldmeadow Christopher , Mishra Gita D. , Garg Manohar L.
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to compare the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and diabetes mellitus (DM) among Australian women following plant-based diets (PBD) compared to regular meat eaters. A cross sectional analysis of the mid-aged cohort (1946–1951) of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health was conducted on completers of Survey 7 in 2013 with complete FFQ data available (n = 9102). Dietary patterns were categorized as PBD (vegan, lacto-ovo vegetarian, pesco-vegetarian, semi-vegetarian) and regular meat eaters. Meat eaters were further categorized into high and low consumption and outcomes included self-reported prevalence of IGT and DM. Participants were identified as regular meat eaters (n = 8937) and PBD (n = 175). Prevalence of IGT was lower in PBD (0–1.2%) compared to regular meat eaters (9.1%). Consolidation of PBD to a single group (vegetarians) indicated a lower prevalence of DM in vegetarians compared to regular meat eaters (3.9% vs. 9.1%). Women consuming meat daily/multiple times per day had significantly higher odds of IGT (OR 1.5, 95%CI 1.1 to 2.1, p = 0.02). Individuals consuming processed meat daily/multiple times per day had significantly higher odds of DM compared to those consuming less than daily (Odds ratio (OR) 1.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3 to 2.3, p < 0.0001). After adjustment for covariates, statistical significance was lost largely due to the addition of BMI to the model. Prevalence of IGT and DM were lower in women following PBD and higher in high consumers of meat and processed meat. The relationship between meat consumption and IGT/diabetes status appears to be mediated, at least in part, by an increase in body mass index (BMI). Future studies are warranted to investigate the mechanisms and other lifestyle factors underpinning the association between high meat consumption and increased risk of IGT and DM.
Acute Fasting Modulates Food-Seeking Behavior and Neural Signaling in the Piriform Cortex
Authors: Ngo Fung-Yin , Li Huanhuan , Zhang Huiqi , Lau Chun-Yue Geoffrey
Published: October 2022

It is well known that the state of hunger can modulate hormones and hypothalamic neural circuits to drive food-seeking behavior and consumption. However, the role the sensory cortex plays in regulating foraging is much less explored. Here, we investigated whether acute fasting in mice can alter an odor-guided foraging behavior and how it can alter neurons and synapses in the (olfactory) piriform cortex (PC). Acute hunger enhances the motivation of a mouse to search for food pellets and increases food intake. The foraging behavior strongly activates the PC, as revealed by c-Fos immunostaining. The activation of PC is accompanied by an increase in excitation–inhibition ratio of synaptic density. Fasting also enhances the phosphorylation of AMP kinase, a biochemical energy regulator. Taken together, our results uncover a new regulatory brain region and implicate the PC in controlling foraging behavior.
Adherence to Caloric and Protein Recommendations in Older Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Czaja-Stolc Sylwia , Puchalska-Reglińska Ewelina , Małgorzewicz Sylwia , Potrykus Marta , Kaczkan Małgorzata , Kałużna Aneta , Heleniak Zbigniew , Dębska-Ślizień Alicja
Published: October 2022

Hemodialysis (HD) patients are characterized by malnutrition, which adversely affects their survival. The development of malnutrition is influenced, among other factors, by improper diet and the advanced age of patients. The study aimed to assess the nutritional status and adherence to dietary recommendations among older patients. The multicenter study included 179 stable HD patients. The nutritional status was assessed by a 7-point Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). Anthropometry and body composition was analyzed. The diet was assessed based on the 3-day food diary and the Food Frequency Questionnaire with 6 answers (FFQ-6). Blood laboratory tests were performed. Based on the 7-point SGA, malnutrition was diagnosed in 38.5% of HD patients. The decreased content of the muscle tissue (LTI < 14 kg/m2) was observed in 70.4% of the examined patients and the decreased concentration of s-albumin was observed in 44.1% of patients. Older patients had significantly lower LTI. 26% of patients consumed less than 25 kcal/kg body weight and less than 0.8 g protein/kg body weight. Older patients’ diets contained significantly fewer calories. There were significant differences between nutrient intake on a weekday with dialysis, a weekday without dialysis, and a weekend day without dialysis. The lowest intake of nutrients was observed on the day of dialysis. Nutritional education and the determination of whether food is permitted during hemodialysis are necessary to improve patients’ nutrition.
Is Abdominal Obesity a Risk Factor for the Incidence of Vitamin D Insufficiency and Deficiency in Older Adults? Evidence from the ELSA Study
Authors: da Silva Thaís Barros Pereira , Luiz Mariane Marques , Delinocente Maicon Luís Bicigo , Steptoe Andrew , de Oliveira Cesar , Alexandre Tiago da Silva
Published: October 2022

Cross-sectional studies have demonstrated an association between abdominal obesity, determined by waist circumference (WC), and vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency in older adults. However, longitudinal evidence is based only on general obesity determined using body mass index (BMI). We investigated whether abdominal obesity is associated with the incidence of 25(OH)D insufficiency (>30 and ≤50 nmol/L) and deficiency (≤30 nmol/L), and whether vitamin D supplementation modifies these associations. We included 2459 participants aged ≥50 years from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) with 25(OH)D sufficiency (>50 nmol/L) at baseline. Abdominal obesity was defined as >88 cm for women and >102 cm for men. After 4 years, 25(OH)D concentrations were reassessed. Multinomial logistic regression models controlled by covariates were performed. Abdominal obesity increased the risk of the incidence of 25(OH)D insufficiency (RRR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.01–1.83) and deficiency (RRR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.05–2.58). These risks were maintained when excluding individuals who took vitamin D supplementation (RRR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.02–1.88) and (RRR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.02–2.56). Abdominal obesity is associated with the risk of incidence of low 25(OH)D concentrations. WC seems to be an adequate tool for screening individuals with obesity and at potential risk of developing these conditions.