Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 3, March 2012, Pages A2-A3

[No author name available]

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 3, March 2012, Pages 230-234

Maria Isabel T.D. Correia, Juliana C. Liboredo, Marcella L.D. Consoli

The intestinal microbiota, which is a complex and dynamic population of different bacterial species, represents an important contribution to the health of the host. This microbiota plays a key role by promoting the integrity of the epithelial barrier and the development of mucosal immunity. However, under some stressful situations, such as after gastrointestinal surgery, infectious complications may originate from the intestinal microbiota of the patient. This phenomenon is known as thegut origin of sepsishypothesis. However, the supply of probiotics has beneficial effects under similar conditions despite some controversial results. Therefore, it is important to carefully assess the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of complications in surgical patients and to evaluate the safety of its use. This review provides an overview of the proposed mechanisms of probiotic action and the significant progress in this field, mainly concerning gastrointestinal surgery.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 3, March 2012, Pages 275-280

Jue Cui, Ying Xiao, Yong-Hui Shi, Bin Wang, Guo-Wei Le

ObjectiveThis study investigated whether spleen oxidative stress induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) influences the expression of genes involved in B-cell activation, thus leading to B-cell–related immunosuppression.MethodsMale C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to one of three groups with eight mice in each group. The control group consumed an ordinary diet (4.9% fat, w/w). The other two groups were fed an HFD (21.2% fat) and an HFD plus 0.1% lipoic acid (LA). After 10 wk, plasma and spleen oxidative stress biomarkers including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio, and malondialdehyde were examined. The B-cell–related immune function was evaluated by examining the number of B cells, and the apoptotic percentages of splenic lymphocytes were determined by flow cytometry. Furthermore, the B-cell activation and reactive oxygen species scavenger-related genes differentially expressed between mice fed an HFD and those fed an HFD supplemented with LA were identified through complementary DNA microarray.ResultsThe HFD induced marked decreases in the number of B cells and significantly increased the apoptotic percentages of splenic lymphocytes, accompanied by oxidative stress and increased oxidative damage, in the plasma and spleen. In addition, complementary DNA array analysis results showed that the HFD induced the decreased expression of genes associated with antioxidant defense, such as superoxide dismutase-3 (1.5-fold), metallothionein-1 (3.03-fold), glutathione peroxidase-5 (17.15-fold), and peroxiredoxin-4 (1.5), and B-cell activation, such as immunoglobulin heavy chain 6 (2.46-fold), immunoglobulin κ-chain (1.74-fold), Fc receptor (1.41-fold), and RAS-related C3 botulinum substrate-1 (7.46). The LA supplement prevented the buildup of oxidative stress and upregulated related gene expressions.ConclusionThese results indicate a role for LA as a possible effective supplement with an HFD to prevent the development of oxidative stress and to attenuate B-cell damnification by increasing the gene expression of the B-cell receptor signaling pathway.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Nirali S. Desai, Nestani Tukvadze, Jennifer K. Frediani, Maia Kipiani, Ekaterine Sanikidze, ...

ObjectiveVitamin D deficiency is common in tuberculosis (TB) and this may modulate immune responses. This study investigated vitamin D status in patients with TB and examined the sources of vitamin D in Tbilisi, Georgia.MethodsWe measured plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and dietary vitamin D intake in patients with pulmonary TB (n= 85) in Tbilisi, Georgia. To determine the impact of season on vitamin D status, we tested the in vitro conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) to previtamin D3after sunlight exposure.ResultsIn subjects with TB, mean plasma 25(OH)D concentrations were 14.4 ± 7.0 ng/mL, and vitamin D insufficiency (25[OH]D <30 ng/mL) occurred in 97% of subjects. The dietary sources of vitamin D were mainly fish, eggs, and butter. The daily intake was well below recommended daily intakes in subjects with TB (172 ± 196 IU). The conversion of 7-DHC to previtamin D3was undetectable from October to March and highest in June and July from 11:00 to 14:00 h.ConclusionAn insufficient vitamin D dietary intake and a limited production of vitamin D from sunlight for most of the year may explain the high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in patients with TB in Tbilisi.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Nicole M. Avena, Jessi Gold, Cindy Kroll, Mark S. Gold

Over the past three decades, obesity has become a major public health crisis in the United States. The prevalence of obesity in the United States and in other parts of the world has led to a new word, “globesity,” being used to describe the problem. As a result of this increased emphasis on understanding the causes and consequences of obesity, novel theories have stimulated new research aimed to prevent, intervene in and ameliorate the effects and decrease the incidence and medical consequences of globesity. One theory that has gained popularity in recent years, is based on the idea that an excessive intake of highly palatable foods shares similarities with the effects on brain and behavior that are seen with some drugs of abuse. Although this theory is not new, empirically-based translational research has only recently provided strong support for this hypothesis. In the present article, we review the present state of the science in this area and describe some newer clinical and preclinical works that shed light on innovative and interesting overlaps between excessivly palatable food intake and drug use.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Ahad Eshraghian

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Muhei Tanaka, Michiaki Fukui, Masaaki Kuroda, Masahiro Yamazaki, Goji Hasegawa, ...

ObjectiveUnder- and overnutrition are associated with a worse prognosis and constitute independent risk factors for morbidity and mortality. It is increasingly important to understand the factors that affect nutritional and metabolic statuses. The purpose of this study was to assess the relation between the pepsinogen I/II ratio and several biochemical markers.MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed in 1985 subjects who underwent a health screening test. Subjects had no medications for hyperuricemia, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, or hypertension. All subjects were classified into two groups. Subjects with a pepsinogen I/II ratio below 3 were defined as having atrophic gastritis. The relations between the pepsinogen I/II ratio and several biochemical markers, including total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, uric acid, cholinesterase, and glucose levels, were evaluated.ResultsThe presence of atrophic gastritis was significantly associated with age, smoking status, alcohol consumption, body mass index, and triacylglycerol, uric acid, cholinesterase, and hemoglobin levels. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that the pepsinogen I/II ratio was an independent determinant of glucose level (β = 0.104,P< 0.0001), triacylglycerol level (β = 0.072,P = 0.0014), uric acid level (β = 0.048,P= 0.0138), and hemoglobin (β = 0.037,P= 0.0429) after adjustments for age, sex, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and body mass index.ConclusionThe pepsinogen I/II ratio was related to glucose, triacylglycerol, and uric acid levels. Such an association fosters the idea that a decreased pepsinogen I/II ratio seems favorable for the prevention of overnutrition.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Fernando Carrasco, Pamela Rojas, Attila Csendes, Juana Codoceo, Jorge Inostroza, ...

ObjectiveGhrelin is a potent stimulator of appetite and synthesized in the stomach. Its role in weight loss after gastric bypass (GBP) is still controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between weight loss and food intake and between weight loss and changes in serum ghrelin concentrations 1 y after GBP with resection of the bypassed stomach (R-GBP) and without resection (NR-GBP).MethodsOf 50 women (37.6 ± 10.2 y old, body mass index 43.8 ± 4.8 kg/m) with GBP, 26 had R-GBP and 24 had NR-GBP. Body weight, body composition (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry), food intake, and serum ghrelin at baseline and 12 mo after GBP were measured.ResultsThe percentage of excess weight loss was 68.9 ± 12.8% at 12 mo after GBP. At 12 mo, the decrease of serum ghrelin was greater in the R-GBP group (−25.3 ± 22.5%) compared with the NR-GBP group (+11.2 ± 50.9%,P< 0.005). After adjustment by the baseline excess of body weight, there was a greater percentage of excess weight loss in the R-GBP group only at 6 mo (61.8% versus 54.9%,P= 0.011). After controlling for the baseline intake, a significant lower carbohydrate intake was observed in the R-GBP group 6 mo after surgery (P< 0.05).ConclusionA greater decrease in ghrelin levels was observed only in patients who underwent R-GBP at 12 mo after surgery. This difference was not associated with differences in dietary intakes or weight loss at the same time point. Therefore, the small gastric pouch is probably more important than decreased ghrelin levels in producing long-term weight loss after R-GBP.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Peter A. Hecker, Tatiana F. Galvao, Karen M. O’Shea, Bethany H. Brown, Reney Henderson, ...

ObjectiveA high-sugar intake increases heart disease risk in humans. In animals, sugar intake accelerates heart failure development by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) can fuel ROS production by providing reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) for superoxide generation by NADPH oxidase. Conversely, G6PD also facilitates ROS scavenging using the glutathione pathway. We hypothesized that a high-sugar intake would increase flux through G6PD to increase myocardial NADPH and ROS and accelerate cardiac dysfunction and death.MethodsSix-week-old TO-2 hamsters, a non-hypertensive model of genetic cardiomyopathy caused by a δ-sarcoglycan mutation, were fed a long-term diet of high starch or high sugar (57% of energy from sucrose plus fructose).ResultsAfter 24 wk, the δ-sarcoglycan–deficient animals displayed expected decreases in survival and cardiac function associated with cardiomyopathy (ejection fraction: control 68.7 ± 4.5%, TO-2 starch 46.1 ± 3.7%,P< 0.05 for TO-2 starch versus control; TO-2 sugar 58.0 ± 4.2%, NS, versus TO-2 starch or control; median survival: TO-2 starch 278 d, TO-2 sugar 318 d,P= 0.133). Although the high-sugar intake was expected to exacerbate cardiomyopathy, surprisingly, there was no further decrease in ejection fraction or survival with high sugar compared with starch in cardiomyopathic animals. Cardiomyopathic animals had systemic and cardiac metabolic abnormalities (increased serum lipids and glucose and decreased myocardial oxidative enzymes) that were unaffected by diet. The high-sugar intake increased myocardial superoxide, but NADPH and lipid peroxidation were unaffected.ConclusionA sugar-enriched diet did not exacerbate ventricular function, metabolic abnormalities, or survival in heart failure despite an increase in superoxide production.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Gigi Veereman-Wauters, Sofie Staelens, Roeland Rombaut, Koen Dewettinck, Dirk Deboutte, ...

ObjectivePolar lipids constitute an important part of cellular membranes. The mucosal surface of the gastrointestinal tract is a critical barrier between noxious and immunogenic substances in the lumen and the mucosal immune system.MethodsWe conducted a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial in healthy children to evaluate the acceptability, safety, effect on intestinal comfort (constipation), common infectious symptoms (fever, diarrhea, cough), and behavioral regulation of a 4-mo daily intake of 200-mL formula with or without enrichment of the milk fat globule membrane (INPULSE). The study was approved by internal review board and conducted in accordance with good clinical practice guidelines. Informed consent was obtained from the legal guardians of participating children. Data were collected from parental diaries. The primary endpoints for analysis were the number of days with fever, diarrhea, coughing, or constipation. The secondary endpoints were the number of doctor visits, medication intake, number of missed schooldays, acceptability of the test drinks, and safety. The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment, a validated questionnaire to assess behavior, was submitted to parents at the end of the intervention period. Standard parametric and non-parametric statistical analyses based on per-protocol analysis were applied, with significance atP< 0.05.ResultsInitially 253 children were included, but 71 dropped out (these were subjects with <80% intake or for <90 d). No adverse effects led to the discontinuation. Per-protocol analysis was performed in 97 girls and 85 boys. The group (n= 182) was normally distributed, with a mean age of 4.4 ± 0.9 y. The amount of product taken each day and the acceptability were similar in the intervention and control groups. The number of days with fever (>38.5°C) and the number of short (<3 d) febrile periods were significantly (P< 0.03) decreased in the intervention group (1.7 ± 2.5 vs 2.6 ± 3.1 d) This significant difference in febrile episodes appeared after 6 wk of consecutive intake. Other outcome parameters (diarrhea, constipation, cough, doctor visit, and days of school absence) were similar in the two groups. An analysis of the 169 Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment questionnaires (two-tailedttest) showed significant differences in the internal (P< 0.003), external (P< 0.004), and total (P< 0.002) problem scores in favor of the intervention group. Between-subjects effects were highly correlated (internal,P< 0.003; external,P< 0.005; total,P< 0.002, one-way analysis of variance).ConclusionRegular consumption of formula enriched with a concentrated milk fat membrane (INPULSE) product by preschool children was safe, well tolerated, and, based on per-protocol analysis, is associated with a significant decrease in the number of short febrile episodes and leads to improved behavioral regulation.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 2 February 2012

Silvia Schönherr, Ruud J.G. Halfens, Judith M.M. Meijers, Jos M.G.A. Schols, Christa Lohrmann

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe and compare structural and process indicators of nutritional care in Austrian hospitals and nursing homes.MethodsA multicenter, cross-sectional study was performed using a standardized and tested questionnaire. Data were collected on patient and institutional levels of hospitals and nursing homes.ResultsData from 18 Austrian hospitals (n= 2326 patients) and 18 Austrian nursing homes (n = 1487 residents) were collected. The prevalence of malnutrition was 23.2% in hospitals and 26.2% in nursing homes. All hospitals and 83.3% of the nursing homes employed dietitians. Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of malnutrition were used infrequently. Nutritional screening at admission was performed in 62.6% of the hospitalized patients and 93.4% of the nursing home residents. Nutritional screening tools were used in 28.9% of the nursing home residents and 14.5% of the hospitalized patients. Oral nutritional support was preferred to enteral and parenteral nutrition in the two settings. Dietitians were consulted in 27.5% of the malnourished hospitalized patients and 74.7% of the malnourished nursing home residents.ConclusionThe study demonstrated that nursing homes fulfilled more structural indicators and performed nutritional screening at admission more often than hospitals. Nevertheless, the prevalence of malnutrition was high in the two settings and a substantial number of malnourished patients/residents received no nutritional intervention at all. These results show the necessity for improvements in the nutritional care in Austria, for instance, through the routine use of nutritional screening tools followed by tailored nutritional interventions in patients/residents in need.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 1 February 2012

Tatjana Schütz, Heike Hudjetz, Anne-Eve Roske, Cornelia Katzorke, Georg Kreymann, ...

ObjectiveObesity in transplant recipients is a frequent phenomenon but data from body composition analyses in long-term survivors are limited. Body composition and energy metabolism were studied in patients after liver (LTX) and kidney (KTX) transplantation and patients with liver cirrhosis (LCI) or on chronic hemodialysis (HD) and compared to healthy controls.MethodsIn 42 patients 50.0 mo (median; range 17.1–100.6) after LTX and 30 patients 93.0 mo (31.2–180.1) after KTX as wells as in LCI (n= 39) or HD (n= 10) patients mid-arm muscle and fat area, body cell mass, and phase angle (bioimpedance analysis), and resting energy expenditure (indirect calorimetry, REECALO) were measured.ResultsObesity was more prevalent in LTX (17%) than LCI (3%) and in KTX (27%) than in HD (10%). In LTX and KTX, phase angle was higher than in end-stage disease (LTX 5.6° [4.1–7.2] versus LCI 4.4° [2.9–7.3],P< 0.001; KTX 5.9° [4.4–8.7] versus HD 4.3° [2.9–6.8]) but was lower in all patient groups than in controls (7.1°; 4.6–8.9;P< 0.001). In LCI and HD REECALOwas higher than predicted, while in LTX and KTX REECALOwas not different from predicted REE.ConclusionsDespite excellent graft function, many long-term LTX or KTX survivors exhibit a phenotype of sarcopenic obesity with increased fat but low muscle mass. This abnormal body composition is observed despite normalization of the hypermetabolism found in chronic disease and cannot be explained by overeating. The role of appropriate nutrition and physiotherapy after transplantation merits further investigation.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 20 January 2012

Daniel König, Stephan Theis, Gunhild Kozianowski, Aloys Berg

ObjectiveDietary interventions with a low glycemic index have shown to be successful for the prevention and therapy of the metabolic syndrome. In the present study, we investigated the postprandial metabolic response at rest and during physical activity the low glycemic carbohydrate isomaltulose (Palatinose™) intake compared with a conventional carbohydrate (glucose syrup/sucrose [glc/suc]) with a higher glycemic index.MethodsTwenty overweight or obese men (32–64 y old) with the metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance were enrolled in this double-blinded, randomized, cross-over study. In the morning, a breakfast consisting of a 250-mL drink and 140 g of cookies containing in a total of 50 g of Palatinose™ or glc/suc was consumed. Two hours after breakfast, subjects exercised at moderate intensity on a treadmill for 30 min. Thereafter, subjects ingested a standardized lunch consisting of a 250-mL drink with 10% Palatinose™ or glc/suc, mini pizzas, and an apple.ResultsBlood levels of glucose and insulin were measured and the postprandial substrate metabolism was determined. The glycemic and insulinemic responses were considerably lower after the ingestion of Palatinose™ (incremental area under the curve,P< 0.05). The total fat oxidation was significantly higher with Palatinose™ from breakfast to the beginning of lunch including the exercise and postexercise periods (P< 0.05). Fat oxidation with Palatinose™ was numerically higher throughout the entire examination period (P= 0.09).ConclusionIn obese subjects with insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome, the partial substitution of carbohydrates with a higher glycemic index in foods and drinks by Palatinose™ resulted in greater postprandial fat oxidation at rest and during physical activity. It is hypothesized that this increased fat oxidation may confer further benefits for long-term weight management and for an improvement in metabolic risk factors.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Ibraim C. Castro, Bruna B. Oliveira, Jacek J. Slowikowski, Bruna P. Coutinho, Francisco Júlio W.S. Siqueira, ...

ObjectiveThis study investigated the role of L-arginine supplementation to undernourished andCryptosporidium parvum–infected suckling mice.MethodsThe following regimens were initiated on the fourth day of life and injected subcutaneously daily. TheC. parvum–infected controls received L-arginine (200 mmol/L) or phosphate buffered saline. The L-arginine–treated mice were grouped to receive NG-nitro-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (20 mmol/L) or phosphate buffered saline. The infected mice received orally 10excystedC. parvumoocysts on day 6 and were euthanized on day 14 at the infection peak.ResultsL-arginine improved weight gain compared with the untreated infected controls. L-NAME profoundly impaired body weight gain compared with all other groups. Cryptosporidiosis was associated with ileal crypt hyperplasia, villus blunting, and inflammation. L-arginine improved mucosal histology after the infection. L-NAME abrogated these arginine-induced improvements. The infected control mice showed an intense arginase expression, which was even greater with L-NAME. L-arginine decreased the parasite burden, an effect that was reversed by L-NAME.Cryptosporidium parvuminfection increased urine NO3/NO2concentrations compared with the uninfected controls, which was increased by L-arginine supplementation, an effect that was also reversed by L-NAME.ConclusionThese findings show a protective role of L-arginine duringC. parvuminfection in undernourished mice, with involvement of arginase I and nitric oxide synthase enzymatic actions.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Maria Dorotéia Borges-Santos, Fernando Moreto, Paulo Câmara Marques Pereira, Yong Ming-Yu, Roberto Carlos Burini

ObjectivePatients with positivity for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) present low concentrations of antioxidant nutrients, including total glutathione (GSH) and its precursors. We investigated the responses of the sulfur-containing amino acid pathway to cysteine and glutamine (Gln) dietary supplements in patients with HIVcompared with healthy controls.MethodsTwelve treated patients (six men and six women, 22–45 y old) and 20 healthy controls (10 men and 10 women, 20–59 y old) were randomly assigned to 7-d dietary supplements containingN-acetylcysteine (NAC; 1 g/d) or Gln (20 g/d), with a 7-d washout period ingesting their usual diet. Blood samples were drawn after an overnight fast. High-performance liquid chromatographic plasma analysis of sulfur-containing amino acids (methionine, homocysteine, cysteine, and taurine), GSH, oxidized GSH, and serine, glycine, glutamic acid, and Gln was carried out moments before and after 7-d supplementations. Statistical comparisons were undertaken between groups and between dietary supplements (P< 0.05).ResultsPatients with HIVshowed higher oxidized GSH and lower concentrations of GSH and all amino acids except homocysteine. The HIVgroup responded to the NAC by increased levels of sulfur-containing amino acids and GSH and equalized taurine and GSH levels in the control group. The Gln supplements also equalized the levels of GSH, Gln, and glycine in the control group.ConclusionAn increase in GSH may be attained by NAC or Gln supplementation, with NAC acting by increasing cysteine levels and Gln likely acting by replenishing the glycine pool (trial registered athttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT00910442).

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Ayman Ibrahim, Moutaz Aziz, Aktham Hassan, Khaly Mbodji, Elodie Collasse, ...

ObjectiveThe ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid therapy in inflammatory bowel disease is focused on the effects on fish oil–derived polyunsaturated fatty acids. We speculated that a vegetal oil rich in α-linolenic acid (ALA) might also inhibit colitis. Therefore, we evaluated whether dietary ALA would decrease the expression of adhesion molecules by inducing the protective enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in a rat colitis model.MethodsColitis was induced at day 0 by an intrarectal injection of 2-4-6-trinitrobenzen sulfonic acid (TNBS), whereas control rats received the vehicle. Rats were fed an ALA-rich formula 450 mg · kg· d, whereas the other colitic group (TNBS) and the control group were fed an isocaloric corn oil formula for 14 d (from day −7 to day 7). The colonic expressions of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), vascular endothelial growth factor A receptor-2 (VEGFR2), and HO-1 were studied by immunohistochemistry.ResultsThe ALA-rich diet significantly decreased the expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and VEGFR-2 compared the TNBS group, but it did not affect the expression of HO-1.ConclusionA vegetal ALA-rich formula decreases the expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and VEGFR-2 and independently of HO-1 in rats with TNBS-induced colitis. Further studies are required to evaluate its therapeutic potential in inflammatory bowel disease as an alternative to fish oil.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Joanna Malinowska, Karolina Babicz, Beata Olas, Anna Stochmal, Wieslaw Oleszek

ObjectiveAronia melanocarpafruits (Rosaceae) are one of the richest plant sources of phenolic substances, and it has been shown to have various biological activities. Berries ofA. melanocarpa(chokeberry) have been supposed to be beneficial for the prevention of cardiovascular events. In this study the influence of aronia extract on the clot formation (using human plasma and purified fibrinogen) and the fibrin lysis during the model of hyperhomocysteinemia was investigated.MethodsHyperhomocysteinemia was induced using a reduced form of Hcys (at final dose of 0.1 mM) and the most reactive form of Hcys – its cyclic thioester, homocysteine thiolactone (HTL, 1 μM). The aim of our studyin vitrowas also to investigate the modifications of human plasma total proteins and the oxidative stress (by measuring the total antioxidant level – TAS) in plasma after incubation with Hcys, HTL and/or aronia extract. The biological properties of aronia extract were compared with the action of a well characterized antioxidative commercial polyphenol - resveratrol (3,4',5- trihydroxystilbene).ResultsThe HTL, like its precursor, Hcys stimulated polymerization of fibrinogen. The results also demonstrated that Hcys (0.1 mM) and HLT at lower doses than Hcys (1 μM) reduced the fibrin lysis in human plasma. Moreover, Hcys and HTL change the level of thiol and amino groups in plasma total proteins and induce the oxidative stress in plasma. Our results indicate that aronia extract reduced the biotoxicity action of Hcys and HTL on hemostatic properties of fibrinogen or plasma, suggesting its possible protective properties in hyperhomocysteinemia – induced cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, our results showed that the extract from berries ofA. melanocarpadue to antioxidant action, significantly reduced the oxidative stress (measured by TAS) in plasma during the model of hyperhomocysteinemia.ConclusionIn the comparative studies, the extract from berries ofA. melanocarpaand reseveratrol had similar protective properties. It gives hopes for development of diet supplements, which may be preventing thrombosis in pathological states where plasma procoagulant activity and oxidative stress are observed e.g. in hyperhomocysteinemia.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Shu-Chiun Chen, Yu-Hsien Lin, Hui-Ping Huang, Wan-Ling Hsu, Jer-Yiing Houng, ...

ObjectiveConjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has several benefits, including body fat reduction, as proved in animals. However, the results of CLA-induced body composition alterations in humans are inconsistent, and no related data are available for Chinese populations. This study aimed to determine whether CLA affects body weight (BW) loss and body composition of overweight and obese Chinese subjects.MethodsIn this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, subjects with a body mass index (BMI) of 24 to 35 kg/mrandomly received 1.7 g ofcis-9,trans-11 andtrans-10,cis-12 CLA (n= 30) or placebo (salad oil;n= 33) in 200 mL of sterilized milk twice daily for 12 wk. Changes in body composition were determined by bioimpedance measurements.ResultsSixty-three subjects completed the study (CLA,n= 30). After 12 wk, compared with the baseline, the BW, BMI, total fat mass, fat percentage, subcutaneous fat mass, and waist-to-hip ratio decreased in the CLA group (P< 0.05). The CLA group was stratified by BMI and gender. The BW, BMI, subcutaneous fat mass, and waist-to-hip ratio decreased in 27 subjects with a BMI ≥ 27, and these indices, except subcutaneous fat mass, were lower in female subjects. The levels of total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, low-density lipoprotein, and plasma fasting glucose increased, whereas those of high-density lipoprotein decreased after 3 mo of CLA treatment. The changes were not significantly different from the baseline values.ConclusionThe supplementation of CLA for 12 wk in overweight and grade I obese Chinese subjects yielded lower obesity indices, with no obvious adverse effects.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Antonio Casas-Vara, Francisco Santolaria, Ainhoa Fernández-Bereciartúa, Emilio González-Reimers, Alfonso García-Ochoa, ...

ObjectiveTheobesity paradoxrefers to the improved survival of obese compared with non-obese elderly or diseased patients for reasons that are not clear. To assess the relative roles of fat and other factors in this improved survival, we analyzed the prognostic value of overweight and obesity elderly patients with heart failure (HF), controlling for other nutritional data such as midarm anthropometrics, serum proteins, and muscle strength.MethodsTwo hundred forty-four patients (83.2 ± 0.5 y old) hospitalized for HF were included. A nutritional survey was performed in all patients. After discharge, the patients were followed up by telephone.ResultsFourteen patients (5.7%) died during hospitalization. The median survival was 984 d. Patients with better nutritional status as assessed by the body mass index (BMI), subjective score, midarm muscle area, triceps skinfold thickness, handgrip, lymphocyte count, and serum albumin, prealbumin, and cholesterol levels showed better short- and long-term prognoses. Obese patients with a BMI above 30 kg/mshowed a better long-term prognosis than those with a BMI from 25 to 30 kg/m, those with a BMI from 20 to 25 kg/m, and those with a BMI lower than 20 kg/m. However, survival was not significantly related to a triceps skinfold thickness above the 95th percentile. Obese and overweight patients were younger and had better a nutritional status than those with a normal or decreased BMI as shown by the anthropometrics, subjective score, handgrip, lymphocyte count, hemoglobin, and serum albumin, prealbumin, and cholesterol levels. All the nutritional data correlated closely with each other. New York Heart Association class also correlated with nutrition-derived data: as the HF class increased, the nutritional status deteriorated. On multivariate analysis, to predict long-term survival, neither BMI nor triceps skinfold thickness showed an independent predictive value, whereas a larger midarm muscle area did.ConclusionThe obesity paradox was confirmed in this series of elderly patients with HF. Those with a high BMI and improved survival had a better nutritional status and New York Heart Association functional class than those with a lower BMI, which may explain the differences in survival.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Mariko Yoshinaga, Natsuko Toda, Yuki Tamura, Shouko Terakado, Mai Ueno, ...

ObjectiveWe investigated the effects of long-term miso soup drinking on salt-induced hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive (Dahl S) rats.MethodsDahl S rats were divided into four groups that consumed 1) water, 2) a 0.9% NaCl solution, 3) a 1.3% sodium NaCl solution, or 4) miso soup containing 1.3% NaCl. They were followed for 8 wk. Systolic blood pressure and hypertensive organ damage were determined.ResultsSystolic blood pressure increased in an age- and dose-dependent manner in Dahl S rats drinking salt solutions. The systolic blood pressure increase was significantly less in the Dahl S rats that drank miso soup, although the ultimate cumulative salt loading was greater than that in the Dahl S rats given the 1.3% NaCl solution. This blood pressure decrease was associated with a morphologic attenuation of glomerular sclerosis in the kidney and collagen infiltration in the heart. Urinary protein excretions were less in the miso group than in the rats given the 1.3% NaCl solution. The fractional excretion of sodium was increased and that of potassium was decreased in Dahl S rats given the 1.3% NaCl solution, and these effects were reversed in rats given miso soup toward the values of the control.ConclusionWe found that long-term miso soup drinking attenuates the blood pressure increase in salt-induced hypertension with organ damage. This may be caused by a possible retardation of sodium absorption in the gastrointestinal tract or by the direct effects of nutrients in the miso soup from soybeans. The decrease was associated with decreases in cardiovascular and renal damage.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Vincent G. Geukers, Zhihao Li, Mariëtte T. Ackermans, Albert P. Bos, Liu Jinfeng, ...

ObjectiveIn pediatric cardiac surgery, fluid-restricted low-protein (LoProt) diets account for cumulative protein deficits with increased morbidity. In this setting, we aimed to inhibit proteolysis by a high-carbohydrate (HiCarb)-intake–induced hyperinsulinemia and improve protein balance.MethodsThe effect of a HiCarb/LoProt (glucose 10 mg · kg· min/protein 0.7 g · kg· d) versus a normal-carbohydrate (NormCarb)/LoProt (glucose 7.5 mg · kg· min/protein 0.3 g · kg· d) enteral diet on whole-body protein breakdown and balance was compared in a prospective, randomized, single-blinded trial in 24 children after cardiac surgery. On the second postoperative day, plasma insulin and amino acid concentrations, protein breakdown (endogenous rate of appearance of valine), protein synthesis (non-oxidative disposal of valine), protein balance, and the rate of appearance of urea were measured by using an isotopic infusion of [1-C]valine and [N2]urea.ResultsThe HiCarb/LoProt diet led to a serum insulin concentration that was three times higher than the NormCarb/LoProt diet (596 pmol/L, 80–1833, and 198 pmol/L, 76–1292, respectively,P = 0.02), without differences in plasma glucose concentrations. There were no differences in plasma amino acid concentrations, non-oxidative disposal of valine, and endogenous rate of appearance of valine between the groups, with a negative valine balance in the two groups (−0.65 μmol · kg· min, −1.91 to 0.01, and −0.58 μmol · kg· min, −2.32 to −0.07, respectively,P= 0.71). The serum cortisol concentration in the HiCarb/LoProt group was lower compared with the NormCarb/LoProt group (204 nmol/L, 50–544, and 532 nmol/L, 108–930, respectively,P= 0.02).ConclusionIn children with fluid restriction after cardiac surgery, a HiCarb/LoProt diet compared with a NormCarb/LoProt diet stimulates insulin secretion but does not inhibit proteolysis further and therefore cannot be advocated for this purpose.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 18 January 2012

Erin D. Michos, Jared P. Reis, Wendy S. Post, Pamela L. Lutsey, Rebecca F. Gottesman, ...

ObjectiveDeficient 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels are associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and mortality. 25(OH)D deficiency and stroke are more prevalent in blacks. We examined whether low 25(OH)D contributes to the excess risk of fatal stroke in blacks compared with whites.MethodsThe Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a probability sample of U.S. civilians, measured 25(OH)D levels and CVD risk factors from 1988 through 1994. Vital status through December 2006 was obtained by a linkage with the National Death Index. In white and black adults without CVD reported at baseline (n= 7981), Cox regression models were fit to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for fatal stroke by 25(OH)D status and race.ResultsDuring a median of 14.1 y, there were 116 and 60 fatal strokes in whites and blacks, respectively. The risk of fatal stroke was greater in blacks compared with whites in models adjusted for socioeconomic status and CVD risk factors (HR 1.60, 95% confidence interval 1.01–2.53). Mean baseline 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower in blacks compared with whites (19.4 versus 30.8 ng/mL, respectively). In multivariable-adjusted models, deficient 25(OH)D levels lower than 15 ng/mL were associated with fatal stroke in whites (HR 2.13, 1.01–4.50) but not blacks (HR 0.93, 0.49–1.80).ConclusionsVitamin D deficiency was associated with an increased risk of stroke death in whites but not in blacks. Although blacks had a higher rate of fatal stroke compared with whites, the low 25(OH)D levels in blacks were unrelated to stroke incidence. Therefore 25(OH)D levels did not explain this excess risk.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 4 January 2012

Peter B. Soeters, Lubos Sobotka

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Available online 4 January 2012

Christian Lehmann, Dragan Pavlovic, Juan Zhou, Ulrich Wuttke, Daniela Saeger, ...

ObjectiveThe administration of glutamine (Gln), which is depleted in critical illness, is associated with an improvement of gut metabolism, structure, and function. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of intravenous Gln and its galenic formulation,l-alanyl-l-glutamine dipeptide (AlaGln), on the intestinal microcirculation during experimental endotoxemia using intravital fluorescence microscopy. Gln or AlaGln administration was performed as pretreatment or post-treatment, respectively. To identify further the underlying mechanisms, amino acid levels were studied.MethodsSixty male Lewis rats were randomly divided into six groups (n= 10/group): control, LPS (lipopolysaccharide 5 mg/kg intravenously), Gln/LPS (LPS animals pretreated with Gln 0.75 g/kg Gln intravenously), AlaGln/LPS (LPS animals pretreated with AlaGln intravenously, 0.75 g/kg Gln content), LPS/Gln (LPS animals post-treated with Gln 0.75 g/kg intravenously), and LPS/AlaGln (LPS animals post-treated with AlaGln intravenously, 0.75 g/kg Gln content). Two hours after the endotoxin challenge, the microcirculation of the terminal ileum was studied using intravital fluorescence microscopy. Blood samples were drawn at the beginning, during, and the end of the experiment to determine the amino acid levels.ResultsThe Gln and AlaGln pre- and post-treatment, respectively, prevented the LPS-induced decrease in the functional capillary density of the intestinal muscular and mucosal layers (P< 0.05). The number of adherent leukocytes in the submucosal venules was significantly attenuated after the Gln and AlaGln pre- and post-treatment (P< 0.05).ConclusionThe Gln and AlaGln administrations improved the intestinal microcirculation by increasing the functional capillary density of the intestinal wall and decreasing the submucosal leukocyte activation.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages A2-A3

[No author name available]

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages 113-117

Maryline Drouet, Laurent Dubuquoy, Pierre Desreumaux, Benjamin Bertin

The etiology of inflammatory bowel disease and, in particular, Crohn’s disease involves a deregulated mucosal immune system under the influence of intestinal flora and environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals. A new hypothesis has focused on mesenteric fat hypertrophy and the presence of ectopic fat surrounding inflamed bowel, the so-called creeping fat, which are hallmarks of Crohn’s disease. Mesenteric adipose tissue is currently recognized as an active actor in immunity with a capacity for mediator secretion. These mediators include classic pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines or chemokines and hormone-like adipokines with multiple effects. Mesenteric fat participates in the course of Crohn’s disease and may play an active role in the regulation of intestinal inflammation. However, little is known about the origin and role of mesenteric fat in Crohn’s disease, essentially because of a lack of experimental models that develop creeping fat. The purpose of this review is to present the recent data describing the immune properties of mesenteric fat and the recent advances in animal models, which have suggested a new hypothesis about the role of creeping fat in Crohn’s disease.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages 118-123

Robert Hoenselaar

Given the large social impact of dietary advice, it is important that the advice have a solid scientific basis. Evidence-based dietary advice should be built on results from all studies available, according to a given methodology. Conclusions should be a valid representation of the summarized results. The association between saturated fat intake and cardiovascular disease was examined. Results from three reports of leading U.S. and European advisory committees were compared with results as they were presented in the articles referred to. Findings were put into perspective with results not included in these reports. Different lines of evidence were included in the different reports. No overlap whatsoever was found in the articles included. Most results from the scientific literature were lacking for most different lines of evidence in all reports. All three reports included the effect of saturated fat on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the evidence linking saturated fat to cardiovascular disease, but the effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was systematically ignored. Both U.S. reports failed to correctly describe the results from the prospective studies. Results and conclusions about saturated fat intake in relation to cardiovascular disease, from leading advisory committees, do not reflect the available scientific literature.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages 165-172

Young-Chul Chung, Chul-Hyun Park, Hye-Kyung Kwon, Young-Min Park, Young Soo Kim, ...

ObjectiveAdolescence is a stage of rapid growth, when rich nutritional supplementation is important. Maintaining optimal cognitive functioning is critical in high school students, who are under considerable academic pressure. The objectives of this study were to identify the effects of a 9-wk randomly assigned diet of mixed grains versus a regular diet on cognitive performance and on levels of plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and S100B, a calcium-binding protein produced by astroglial cells, in healthy high school students (grades 10 and 11).MethodsIn this 9-wk, single-blind, controlled study, subjects were randomly allocated to either a mixed-grain or a regular diet. Cognitive assessments and measurements of plasma BDNF and S100B levels were performed at baseline and after the 9-wk intake of a mixed-grain or regular diet. Computerized neuropsychological tests and self-rating scales were used for the cognitive assessments.ResultsSignificant improvements in some neuropsychological tests were found after 9 wk in both the mixed-grain and the regular-diet groups, but the changes from baseline between the two groups were not significantly different. Significant impairments on the AX-continuous performance test were observed at the endpoint in the regular-diet group, and the changes from baseline between the two groups were also significantly different for this test. A significant difference in changes in BDNF levels was observed between the two groups.ConclusionsThese results suggest that intake of mixed grains for 9 wk is beneficial for cognitive performance and plasma BDNF levels in high school students. These beneficial effects seem to be related to the prevention of cognitive deterioration in a mental-fatigue test with the mixed-grain diet, rather than cognitive enhancement per se.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages 197-203

Margherita Dall'Asta, Luca Calani, Marianna Tedeschi, Lucia Jechiu, Furio Brighenti, ...

ObjectiveThe biological effects of dietary polyphenols are linked to their bioavailability and catabolism in humans. The colon, with its symbiotic microbiota, is an active site where complex polyphenolic compounds are possibly modified to smaller and more absorbable molecules. The aim of this study was to identify the major metabolites derived from microbial colonic fermentation of some common polyphenol-rich foods.MethodsAn in vitro fecal fermentation model was applied to 16 polyphenol-rich foods and polyphenolic precursors. Phenolic metabolites were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometric detection.ResultsTwenty-four phenolic fermentation metabolites were characterized. Some metabolites were common to several polyphenol-rich foods, whereas others were characteristic of specific sources.ConclusionThe metabolites identified in vitro likely are generated in the human colon after consumption of polyphenol-rich foods. Their occurrence in plasma and/or urine should be considered when evaluating the bioavailability of polyphenols from specific food groups in humans and in the definition of markers of exposure to specific foods or food groups in epidemiologic studies. However, the search for these and other microbial metabolites after a feeding study in vivo should consider their possible further conjugation at the level of the liver.

Publication year: 2012
Source: Nutrition, Volume 28, Issue 2, February 2012, Pages 220-223

Matan J. Cohen, Iris Theodor, Anat Scheiman Elazary, Pazit Bekerman, Avital Nahmias, ...

Systemic lupus erythematosus most often targets organs such as joints, serosa, skin, bone marrow, and the kidneys. Gastrointestinal complications are uncommon, and among these, protein losing enteropathy is particularly rare. We present a young woman who suffered from chronic abdominal pain and diarrhea, developed severe malnutrition, and was eventually diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and associated protein losing enteropathy.