Silicon-enriched meat positively improves plasma lipidaemia and lipoproteinaemia, LDLr, and insulin capability and the signalling pathway induced by an atherogenic diet in late-stage type 2 diabetes mellitus rats

The impact of silicon as a functional ingredient in restructured meat (RM) on lipoprotein composition, metabolism, and oxidation on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) markers has never been studied. This study aims to evaluate the effect of silicon-enriched-meat consumption on lipidaemia, lipoprotein profile and metabolism, plasma arylesterase, and TBARS and their relationships with glycaemia, insulinaemia, and insulin-signaling markers in late-stage-T2DM rats fed a high-saturated-fat-high-cholesterol (HSFHC) diet. Saturated-fat diets with or without added cholesterol were formulated by mixing a 70% purified diet with 30% freeze-dried RM with or without added silicon. Three groups of seven Wistar rats each were tested. The ED group received the control RM in the framework of a high-saturated-fat diet as early-stage T2DM control. The other two groups received streptozotocin-nicotinamide administration together with the HSFHC diet containing the control RM (LD) or silicon-enriched RM (LD-Si). Scores were created to define the diabetic trend and dyslipidaemia. The ED rats showed hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, and triglyceride-rich-VLDLs, suggesting they were in early-stage T2DM. LD rats presented hyperglycaemia, hypoinsulinaemia, and reduced HOMA-beta and insulin signaling markers typical of late-stage T2DM along with hypercholesterolaemia and high amounts of beta-VLDL, IDL, and LDL particles and low arylesterase activity. All these markers were significantly (p < 0.05) improved in LD-Si rats. The diabetic trend and diabetes dyslipidaemia scores showed a high and significant correlation (r = 0.595, p < 0.01). Silicon-enriched-meat consumption counterbalances the negative effects of HSFHC diets, functioning as an active hypolipemic, antioxidant, and antidiabetic dietary ingredient in a T2DM rat model, delaying the onset of late-stage diabetes.

Proanthocyanidins: Impact on Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Action Mechanisms in the Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

The metabolic syndrome (MS) is a cluster of risk factors, such as central obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and arterial hypertension, which increase the probability of causing premature mortality. The consumption of high-fat diets (HFD) is a major driver of the rising incidence of MS. In fact, the altered interplay between HFD, microbiome, and the intestinal barrier is being considered as a possible origin of MS. Consumption of proanthocyanidins (PAs) has a beneficial effect against the metabolic disturbances in MS. However, there are no conclusive results in the literature about the efficacy of PAs in improving MS. This review allows a comprehensive validation of the diverse effects of the PAs on the intestinal dysfunction in HFD-induced MS, differentiating between preventive and therapeutic actions. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of PAs on the gut microbiota, providing a system to facilitate comparison between the studies. PAs can modulate the microbiome toward a healthy profile and strength barrier integrity. Nevertheless, to date, published clinical trials to verify preclinical findings are scarce. Finally, the preventive consumption of PAs in MS-associated dysbiosis and intestinal dysfunction induced by HFD seems more successful than the treatment strategy.

Could Duodenal Molecular Mechanisms be Involved in the Hypocholesterolemic Effect of Silicon Used as Functional Ingredient in Late-Stage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

SCOPE

Hypercholesterolemia increases the risk of mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially in the late-stage. Consumption of bioactive compounds as functional ingredients would help achieve therapeutic goals for cholesterolemia. Silicon has demonstrated a hypocholesterolemic effect and the ability to reduce fat digestion. However, it is unclear whether silicon exerts such effect in late-stage T2DM (LD) and the intestinal mechanisms involved.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Three groups of eight rats were included: early-stage T2DM control (ED), LD, and the LD group treated with silicon (LD-Si) once the rats were diabetic. Morphological alterations of the duodenal mucosa, and levels of markers involve in cholesterol absorption and excretion, beside cholesterolemia, and fecal excretion were assayed. Silicon included as a functional ingredient significantly reduces cholesterolemia in part due to: 1) reducing cholesterol intestinal absorption by decreasing the absorptive area and Acetyl-Coenzyme A acetyltransferase-2 (ACAT2) levels; and 2) increasing cholesterol excretion to the lumen by induction of the liver X receptor (LXR) and consequent increase of adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter (ABCG5/8).

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide insight into the intestinal molecular mechanisms by which silicon reduces cholesterolemia and highlights the efficacy of the consumption of silicon-enriched functional foods in late-stage T2DM.

Functional Meat Products as Oxidative Stress Modulators: A Review

High meat consumption has been associated with increased oxidative stress mainly due to the generation of oxidized compounds in the body, such as malondialdehyde, 4-hydroxy-nonenal, oxysterols, or protein carbonyls, which can induce oxidative damage. Meat products are excellent matrices for introducing different bioactive compounds, to obtain functional meat products aimed at minimizing the pro-oxidant effects associated with high meat consumption. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the concept and preparation of healthy and functional meat, which could benefit antioxidant status. Likewise, the key strategies regarding meat production and storage as well as ingredients used (e.g., minerals, polyphenols, fatty acids, walnuts) for developing these functional meats are detailed. Although most effort has been made to reduce the oxidation status of meat, newly emerging approaches also aim to improve the oxidation status of consumers of meat products. Thus, we will delve into the relation between functional meats and their health effects on consumers. In this review, animal trials and intervention studies are discussed, ascertaining the extent of functional meat products' properties (e.g., neutralizing reactive oxygen species formation and increasing the antioxidant response). The effects of functional meat products in the frame of diet-gene interactions are analyzed to 1) discover target subjects that would benefit from their consumption, and 2) understand the molecular mechanisms that ensure precision in the prevention and treatment of diseases, where high oxidative stress takes place. Long-term intervention-controlled studies, testing different types and amounts of functional meat, are also necessary to ascertain their positive impact on degenerative diseases.

Carob fruit extract-enriched meat, as preventive and curative treatments, improves gut microbiota and colonic barrier integrity in a late-stage T2DM model

Epidemiological and experimental studies have suggested that dietary fiber and proanthocyanidins play an important role on gut microbiota (GM), colonic integrity and body health. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent disease in which the modifications in the GM and colonic markers stand out. This manuscript hypothesizes the consumption of functional meat enriched in carob fruit extract [CFE; CFE-restructured meat (RM)] ameliorates the dysbiosis and colonic barrier integrity loss in a late-stage T2DM rat model induced by the conjoint action of a high-saturated-fat/high-cholesterol diet (Chol-diet) and a low dose of streptozotocin (STZ) plus a nicotinamide (NAD) injection. Three groups of eight rats were used: (1) D group, a T2DM control group, fed the Chol-diet; (2) ED group, a T2DM preventive strategy group fed the CFE-Chol-diet since the beginning of the study; and (3) DE group, a T2DM curative treatment group, fed the CFE-Chol-diet once the diabetic state was confirmed. The study lasted 8 weeks. Amount and variety of GM, feces short-chain-fatty acids (SCFAs), colonic morphology [crypt depth and density, goblet cells, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) indexes] and tight junctions were evaluated. A global colonic index combining 17 markers (GC_index) was calculated. ED rats displayed higher levels of GM richness, SCFAs production, crypt depth, and goblet cells than the D group. DE group showed lower Enterobacteriaceae abundance and greater TUNEL index and occludin expression in the distal colon than D counterpart. GC_index differentiated the colonic health status of the experimental groups in the order (ED > DE > D; P < 0.001) as a 17-51 range-quotation, ED, DE, and D groups displayed the values 43, 32.5, and 27, respectively. Thus, CFE-RM used as a T2DM preventive therapy could induce higher GM richness, more adequate SCFAs production, and better colonic barrier integrity. Furthermore, CFE-RM used with curative purposes induced more modest changes and mainly at the distal colonic mucosa. Further studies are needed to confirm this study's results, to ascertain the benefits of consuming proanthocyanidins-rich fiber during different T2DM stages.

Diabesity negatively affects transferrin saturation and iron status. The DICARIVA study

AIMS

The relationship between iron status, obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has scarcely been tested. This study hypothesizes that patients with obesity and T2DM have altered iron metabolism.

METHODS

537 T2DM patients were selected from the cross-sectional DICARIVA study excluding patients with high-sensitivity-C-reactive-protein (hs-CRP) ≥  10 mg/L. Three groups according to body mass index (BMI) and waist perimeter (WP) were analysed: a) BMI < 30 kg/m², non-high WP (n = 105); b) BMI < 30 kg/m², high WP (n = 202); and c) diabesity, BMI ≥  30 kg/m², high WP (n = 230). Group differences on cardiometabolic and iron status markers were tested.

RESULTS

Women had significantly lower iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation (TSAT) but higher transferrin and total iron binding capacity than men. Triglycerides/HDL-c ratio, as insulin-resistance (IR) marker, was higher in men while hs-CRP in women. TSAT was inversely related to BMI and hs-CRP. The diabesity group showed the highest hs-CRP (p < 0.001) and IR (p < 0.001) with the lowest TSAT (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Low TSAT was highly prevalent in diabesity, mainly in women, suggesting that IR, inflammation, and abdominal adiposity alter iron transport and accumulation. The convenience of iron supplementation in diabesity patients with low TSAT should be urgently assessed, due the pro-oxidant effects of excess iron.

The Effect of Emulsifying Protein and Addition of Condensed Tannins on n-3 PUFA Enriched Emulsions for Functional Foods

This paper examines the effect of the type of the emulsifying protein (EP) (sodium caseinate (SC) and whey protein isolate (WPI)) on both oil-in-water liquid-like emulsions (Es) and the corresponding cold gelled emulsions (GEs), and also the effect of addition of carob extract rich in condensed tannins (T). The systems, intended as functional food ingredients, were studied in various different respects, including rheological behaviour, in vitro gastrointestinal digestion with determination of the release of non-extractable proanthocyanidins (NEPA) from T, antioxidant activity and lipolysis. EP significantly affects the rheological behaviour of both Es and GEs. T incorporation produced a structural reinforcement of GEs, especially in the case of SC. The digests from Es displayed a higher antioxidant activity than those from GEs. T lipase inhibition was observed only in the formulations with WPI. Our results highlight the importance, in the design of functional foods, of analyzing different variables when incorporating a bioactive compound into a food or emulsion in order to select the better combination for the desired objective, owing to the complex interplay of the various components.

Carob fruit extract-enriched meat improves pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, hepatic insulin signaling and lipogenesis in late-stage type 2 diabetes mellitus model

The inclusion of functional bioactive compounds of dietary fiber in meat products has been demonstrated to exert a significant impact on human health. Carob fruit extract (CFE) is a dietary fiber rich in proanthocyanidins with known antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects. Consumption of CFE-enriched meat (CFE-RM) may provide interesting benefits in late-stage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). To explore the antidiabetic mechanisms of CFE-RM, we used a model of late-stage T2DM in Wistar rats fed a high-saturated-fat/high-cholesterol diet (Chol-diet) and injected streptozotocin plus nicotinamide (D group). The effects of CFE-RM were tested by incorporating it into the diet as preventive strategy (ED group) or curative treatment (DE group). CFE-RM had a positive effect on glycemia, enhancing hepatic insulin sensitivity and improving pancreatic β-cell regeneration in both ED and DE groups. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry suggested that CFE-RM increased levels of insulin receptor β and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, as well as the downstream target phospho-Akt (at Ser⁴⁷³). CFE-RM also up-regulated glucose transporter 2, which improves the insulin-mediated glucose uptake by the liver, and promoted phosphorylation of glycogen synthesis kinase-3βprotein (at ser⁹), consequently increasing the hepatic glycogen content. In addition, CFE-RM decreased fatty liver by suppressing de novo lipogenesis activation due to down-regulation of liver X receptor-α/β, sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c and carbohydrate-response element-binding protein transcription factors. Our findings suggest that the consumption of CFE-RM included in the diet as a functional food should be considered as a suitable nutritional strategy to prevent or manage late-stage T2DM.

Palm Oil on the Edge

Internationally recognized Spanish experts in the food industry, nutrition, toxicology, sustainability, and veterinary science met in Madrid on July 2018 to develop a consensus about palm oil (PO) as a food ingredient. Their aim was to provide a useful, evidence-based point of reference about PO. Scientific evidence about the role of PO in food safety, nutrition and sustainability was analyzed. Main conclusions were: (1) RSPO foundation responded to the environmental impact of palm crops. The Amsterdam Declaration pursues the use of 100% sustainable PO in Europe by 2020. Awareness about choosing sustainable products will help to maintain local economies and environments in the producing countries; (2) evidence shows that a moderate intake of PO within a healthy diet presents no risks for health. No evidence justifies any change fat intake recommendations; (3) food industry is interested in assuring safe, sustainable and high-quality products. The use of certified sustainable PO is increasing; and (4) there is no evidence associating PO consumption and higher cancer risk, incidence or mortality in humans. Tolerable daily intake (TDI) for toxic contaminants (2-and 3-monochloropropanediols (MCPDs), glycidyl esters (GEs)) have been established by JECFA and EFSA. Consequently, the European Commission has modified the Contaminants Regulation for GEs and it is still working on 3-MCPDs'.

Extracellular mass to body cell mass ratio as a potential index of wasting and fluid overload in hemodialysis patients. A case-control study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Extracellular mass-to-body cell mass ratio (ECM/BCM ratio) which differentiates the proportion between intraextracellular compartments, could be a nutrition index of being wasted overloaded in hemodialysis (HD) patients. This study aimed to describe a cut-off point of the ECM/BCM ratio and, to find out the relationship between the nutritional-hydration status and this ratio in HD patients.

METHODS

A case-control study was carried out in 64 HD patients individually age-gender-matched to controls. Demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters were recorded. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to estimate ECM/BCM ratio as an indicator of the nutritional hydration status. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to determine the optimal cut-off point for identification of ECM/BCM ratio. An univariate and multivariate conditional logistic regression for the ECM/BCM ratio ≥1.20 was performed.

RESULTS

Median of ECM/BCM ratio was 1.50 (IQR:0.66) in HD patients, whereas 0.87 (IQR: 0.35) was found in controls (p < 0.001). HD-patients had lower body weight, serum albumin (s-albumin) and higher serum C-reactive protein (s-CRP) than controls. By ROC curve analysis, a cut-off point of 1.20 for the ECM/BCM ratio best discriminates to be wasted-overhydrated (sensitivity: 81.2%; specificity: 87.5%). Conditional logistic regression showed that for each 10%, ECM/BCM ratio increase the probability of developing fluid overload was increased 63% (OR: 1.63; 95% CI, 1.15-2.29), whereas an inverse association with s-albumin (OR: 0.15; 95% CI, 0.03-0.61) and other nutritional indicators were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The ECM/BCM ratio appears as a sensitive index that discriminates nutritional and/or hydration status in HD patients compared with age-gender-matched-controls. ECM/BCM ratios ≥1.20 are indicators of wasting and fluid overload in HD patients.

Coagulation, Thrombogenesis, and Insulin Resistance Markers in Increased-Cardiovascular-Risk Subjects Consuming Improved-Fat Meat Products

OBJECTIVES

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is prevalent in high-meat-product consumers. The effect of consuming lipid-improved pâtés/frankfurters on plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, thromboxane A₂ (as TXB₂), prostacyclin I₂ (as 6-keto-PGF_1α), activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, antithrombin, and insulin-resistance/sensitivity markers in volunteers at high CVD risk was studied.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Eighteen male volunteers enrolled in a blind crossover-controlled study consumed improved products during three 4-week periods: reduced fat (RF), n-3-enriched-RF (n-3RF), and normal fat (NF), separated by 4-week washouts.

RESULTS

Fibrinogen and 6-keto-PG1α decreased (p < 0.05) following the RF period; LDL-cholesterol, TXB₂, and 6-keto-PGF_1α decreased (p < 0.05) after the n-3RF-period, while LDL-cholesterol, fibrinogen, TXB₂, insulin, and Homostatic Model Assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) increased (at least p < 0.05) and QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) decreased (p < 0.05) during the NF period. The rates of changes of fibrinogen, TXB₂, 6-keto-PGF_1α, and HOMA-IR differ between groups (repeated-measures test p < 0.05). Fibrinogen, insulin, and HOMA-IR differed significantly (p < 0.05) between RF and n-3RF period versus NF period, while that of TXB₂ and 6-keto-PGF_1α differed between n-3RF and NF periods (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The consumption of n-3RF meat products, followed by RF ones, partially reduced thrombogenesis, coagulation, and insulin-resistance markers. Thus, the inclusion of lipid-improved pâtés/frankfurters might be recommended into dietary strategies in at-CVD-risk volunteers.

Effects of Fiber Purified Extract of Carob Fruit on Fat Digestion and Postprandial Lipemia in Healthy Rats

Increased postprandial lipemia is a cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. Carob fruit extract (CFE) contains condensed tannins, and their intake has been inversely related to CVD. The objective was to evaluate the in vitro pancreatic lipase activity in the presence of CFE and the in vivo effect of CFE on postprandial lipemia of healthy Wistar rats in acute and subchronic digestibility studies and to relate it with changes in fat digestion and absorption. CFE significantly reduced pancreatic lipase activity. A peak delay and a dose-dependent decrease in plasma triglyceride and cholesterol areas under the curve were observed, effects that increased after the subchronic treatment. The levels of nondigested, nonabsorbed triglycerides of the remaining intestinal lumen fat were significantly higher in the maximum dose of CFE administrated versus the control ( P < 0.05). This study demonstrates for the first time the hypolipemic properties of CFE from the first administration, modifying postprandial lipemia by reducing the extents of fat digestion and absorption.

Can nonalcoholic beer, silicon and hops reduce the brain damage and behavioral changes induced by aluminum nitrate in young male Wistar rats?

Aluminum consumption has been associated with various neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies suggest that regular beer intake reverses the pro-oxidant and inflammatory statuses induced by aluminum nitrate intoxication. This paper aims to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of non-alcoholic beer (NABeer), silicon or hops, as well as their effect on animal behavior (e.g. curiosity, immobilization, rearing, grooming, swimming) and brain antioxidant enzyme (activity and gene expression) and anti-inflammatory status in aluminum nitrate intoxicated rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: 1) Control, 2) Aluminum nitrate (450 μg/kg/day), 3) Aluminum nitrate plus NABeer, 4) Aluminum nitrate plus hops, and 5) Aluminum nitrate plus silicon. Hops showed the highest in vitro antioxidant capacity and silicon the highest anticholinesterase activity. In the Aluminum group the brain aluminum/silicon ratio increased with impairment of brain antioxidant and inflammatory statuses. NABeer, silicon and hops block the negative effect on the in vivo antioxidant and inflammatory statuses induced by Aluminum nitrate and improve swimming and rearing behavioral tests. The various positive results suggest that NABeer is useful as a functional multi-target drink in the prevention of some neurodegenerative events caused by aluminum intoxication. More studies are required to conclude present results.

The triglyceride-glucose index, an insulin resistance marker in newborns?

The study aims to assess the utility of the triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) as a marker of insulin resistance (IR) in neonates. TyG and the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR) values were compared in 196 singleton, term normoweight and without distress newborns. A Decision Tree procedure (CHAID) was used to classify cases into groups or predict values of a dependent (Ln HOMA-IR) variable. Three nodes were drawn for TyG: ≤ 6.7, > 6.7-7.8 and > 7.8 (p < 0.0001; F = 20.52). The predictability of those TyG values vs HOMA-IR was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). It was neither affected by gender (p = 0.084), glucose challenge test (p = 0.138) classifications nor by the TyG node* glucose challenge test and TyG node*gender interactions (p = 0.456 and p = 0.209, respectively). Glucose, HOMA-IR, and the triglyceride/HDL cholesterol ratio increased progressively from node 1 to 3 for TyG while QUICKI decreased.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, TyG appears to be a suitable tool for identifying IR at birth, justifying the further insulin determination in those neonates. TyG ≥ 7.8 is recommended as cut-off point in neonates. The need for a follow-up study to confirm the TyG as early IR marker is desirable.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• HOMA-IR and the triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) show a high correlation. • The TyG has been used as an insulin resistance marker in adults.

WHAT IS NEW

• This is the first study where TyG has been assessed in neonates. • TyG appears to be a suitable and cheap tool for identifying insulin resistance at birth.

Silicic Acid and Beer Consumption Reverses the Metal Imbalance and the Prooxidant Status Induced by Aluminum Nitrate in Mouse Brain

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence suggests that by affecting mineral balance, aluminum (Al) may enhance some events associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM

To examine the effect of Al(NO3)3 exposure on brain Al, cooper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), silicon (Si), and zinc (Zn) levels, and the metal-change implication in brain oxidant and inflammatory status.

METHODS

Four groups of six-week-old male NMRI mice were treated for three months: i) controls, administrated with deionized water; ii) Al, which received Al(NO3)3; iii) Al+silicic acid, which were given Al(NO3)3 plus silicic acid; and iv) Al+beer, which received Al(NO3)3 plus beer.

RESULTS

Brain Al and TBARS levels and TNFα and GPx expressions increased, while Cu, Mn, and Zn levels, and catalase and CuZn-SOD expression decreased (at least, p < 0.05) in Al versus control animals. Al, Si, and TBARS levels and TNFα expression decreased (p < 0.05) in Al+silicic acid and Al+beer specimens while Cu, Mn, and Zn levels and antioxidant expression increased versus the Al group. Brain Al levels correlated negatively with those of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, and catalase, CuZn-SOD, and GPx enzyme expressions but positively with Si and TBARS levels and TNFα expression. Two components of the principal component analysis (PCA) explained 71.2% of total data variance (p < 0.001). PCA connected the pro-oxidant markers with brain Al content, while brain Zn and Cu levels were closer to antioxidant enzyme expression.

CONCLUSION

Administration of Al(NO3)3 induced metal imbalance, inflammation, and antioxidant status impairment in the brain. Those effects were blocked to a significant extent by silicic acid and beer administration.

Silicon Alleviates Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis by Reducing Apoptosis in Aged Wistar Rats Fed a High-Saturated Fat, High-Cholesterol Diet

Background: Lipoapoptosis has been identified as a key event in the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hence, antiapoptotic agents have been recommended as a possible effective treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Silicon, included in meat as a functional ingredient, improves lipoprotein profiles and liver antioxidant defenses in aged rats fed a high-saturated fat, high-cholesterol diet (HSHCD). However, to our knowledge, the antiapoptotic effect of this potential functional meat on the liver has never been tested.Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of silicon on NASH development and the potential antiapoptotic properties of silicon in aged rats.Methods: One-year-old male Wistar rats weighing ∼500 g were fed 3 experimental diets containing restructured pork (RP) for 8 wk: 1) a high-saturated fat diet, as an NAFLD control, with 16.9% total fat, 0.14 g cholesterol/kg diet, and 46.8 mg SiO₂/kg (control); 2) the HSHCD as a model of NASH, with 16.6% total fat, 16.3 g cholesterol/kg diet, and 46.8 mg SiO₂/kg [high-cholesterol diet (Chol-C)]; and 3) the HSHCD with silicon-supplemented RP with amounts of fat and cholesterol identical to those in the Chol-C diet, but with 750 mg SiO₂/kg (Chol-Si). Detailed histopathological assessments were performed, and the NAFLD activity score (NAS) was calculated. Liver apoptosis and damage markers were evaluated by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining.Results: Chol-C rats had a higher mean NAS (7.4) than did control rats (1.9; P < 0.001). The score in Chol-Si rats (5.4) was intermediate and different from that in both other groups (P < 0.05). Several liver apoptosis markers-including hepatocyte terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling, cytosolic cytochrome c, apoptosis-inducing factor, caspases 9 and 3, and the mitochondrial Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX)-to-B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) ratio-were 9-45% lower in Chol-Si than in Chol-C rats (P < 0.05) and did not differ from values in the control group.Conclusions: Supplemental silicon substantially affects NASH development in aged male Wistar rats fed an HSHCD by partially blocking apoptosis. These results suggest that silicon-enriched RP could be used as an effective nutritional strategy in preventing NASH.

Bioaccessibility of hydroxytyrosol and n-3 fatty acids as affected by the delivery system: simple, double and gelled double emulsions

This study examines the influence of different food-grade n-3 PUFA-enriched simple emulsion (SE), double emulsion (DE) and gelled double emulsion (GDE) delivery systems on the extent of lipolysis, antioxidant capacity and the bioaccessibility of hydroxytyrosol (HTy). GDE emulsion offered better protection for HTy (89%) than the other systems (79% in SE and DE). The reducing capacity of the emulsions containing HTy were not altered during oral digestion. However, "in vitro" gastric and intestinal phases significantly reduced the antioxidant activity of all systems. The structural and physical state of GDE entailed a slowing-down of triacylglyceride hydrolysis (36.4%) in comparison with that of SE and DE (22.7 and 24.8% for SE and DE, respectively).

Hydrogen peroxide modifies both activity and isoforms of acetylcholinesterase in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells

The involvement of cholinergic system and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of some degenerative diseases has been widely reported; however, the specific impact of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) on the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity as well as AChE isoform levels has not been clearly established. Hence, the purpose of present study is to clarify whether H₂O₂ alters these parameters.

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were treated with H₂O₂ (1–1000 µM) for 24 h and AChE activity and AChE and cytochrome c levels were evaluated. AChE activity was strongly increased from 1 µM to 1000 µM of H₂O_2. The results of the kinetic study showed that H₂O₂ affected Vmax but not Km; and also that H₂O₂ changed the sigmoid kinetic observed in control samples to hyperbolic kinetic. Thus, results suggest that H₂O₂ acts as an allosteric activators. In addition, H₂O₂, (100–1000 µM) reduced the total AChE content and modified its isoform profile (mainly 50-, 70-, and 132-kDa)·H₂O₂ from 100 µM to 1000 µM induced cytochrome c release confirming cell death by apoptosis. All these results together suggest: a) the involvement of oxidative stress in the imbalance of AChE; and b) treatment with antioxidant agents may be a suitable strategy to protect cholinergic system alterations promoted by oxidative stress.

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H₂O₂ impact on AChE structure from SH-SY5Y cells, acting as an allosteric effector.

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H₂O₂ decreased AChE levels and changed AChE isoform profile from SH-SY5Y cells.

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Oxidative stress could promote disturbances in cholinergic system.

Folate and vitamin B12 concentrations are associated with plasma DHA and EPA fatty acids in European adolescents: the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence (HELENA) study

This study aimed to examine the association between vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 biomarkers and plasma fatty acids in European adolescents. A subsample from the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence study with valid data on B-vitamins and fatty acid blood parameters, and all the other covariates used in the analyses such as BMI, Diet Quality Index, education of the mother and physical activity assessed by a questionnaire, was selected resulting in 674 cases (43 % males). B-vitamin biomarkers were measured by chromatography and immunoassay and fatty acids by enzymatic analyses. Linear mixed models elucidated the association between B-vitamins and fatty acid blood parameters (changes in fatty acid profiles according to change in 10 units of vitamin B biomarkers). DHA, EPA) and n-3 fatty acids showed positive associations with B-vitamin biomarkers, mainly with those corresponding to folate and vitamin B12. Contrarily, negative associations were found with n-6:n-3 ratio, trans-fatty acids and oleic:stearic ratio. With total homocysteine (tHcy), all the associations found with these parameters were opposite (for instance, an increase of 10 nmol/l in red blood cell folate or holotranscobalamin in females produces an increase of 15·85 µmol/l of EPA (P value <0·01), whereas an increase of 10 nmol/l of tHcy in males produces a decrease of 2·06 µmol/l of DHA (P value <0·05). Positive associations between B-vitamins and specific fatty acids might suggest underlying mechanisms between B-vitamins and CVD and it is worth the attention of public health policies.

Glucomannan- and glucomannan plus spirulina-enriched pork affect liver fatty acid profile, LDL receptor expression and antioxidant status in Zucker fa/fa rats fed atherogenic diets

We evaluated the effects of glucomannan or glucomannan plus spirulina-restructured pork (RP) on liver fatty acid profile, desaturase/elongase enzyme activities and oxidative status of Zucker fa/fa rats for seven weeks. Control (C), glucomannan (G) and glucomannan/spirulina (GS)-RP; HC (cholesterol-enriched control), HG and HGS (cholesterol-enriched glucomannan and glucomannan/spirulina-RP) experimental diets were tested. Increased metabolic syndrome markers were found in C, G and GS rats. Cholesterol feeding increased liver size, fat, and cholesterol and reduced antioxidant enzyme levels and expressions. Cholesterolemia was lower in HG and HGS than in HC. GS vs. G showed higher stearic but lower oleic levels. SFA and PUFA decreased while MUFA increased by cholesterol feeding. The arachidonic/linoleic and docosahexaenoic/alpha-linolenic ratios were lower in HC, HG, and HGS vs. C, G, and GS, respectively, suggesting a delta-6-elongase-desaturase system inhibition. Moreover, cholesterol feeding, mainly in HGS, decreased low-density-lipoprotein receptor expression and the delta-5-desaturase activity and increased the delta-9-desaturase activity. In conclusion, the liver production of highly unsaturated fatty acids was limited to decrease their oxidation in presence of hypercholesterolaemia. Glucomannan or glucomannan/spirulina-RP has added new attributes to their functional properties in meat, partially arresting the negative effects induced by high-fat-high-cholesterol feeding on the liver fatty acid and antioxidant statuses.

Glucomannan and glucomannan plus spirulina added to pork significantly block dietary cholesterol effects on lipoproteinemia, arylesterase activity, and CYP7A1 expression in Zucker fa/fa rats

Zucker fa/fa rats easily develop dyslipidemia and obesity. Restructured pork (RP) is a suitable matrix for including functional ingredients. The effects of glucomannan- RP or glucomannan plus spirulina-enriched RP on plasma lipid/lipoprotein levels, cytochrome P450 7A1 (CYP7A1) expression, and arylesterase activity in growing fa/fa rats fed high-energy, high-fat cholesterol-enriched diets were tested. Groups of six rats each received diet containing 15% control-RP (C), 15% glucomannan-RP diet (G), 15% glucomannan + spirulina-RP diet (GS), and same diets enriched with 2.4% cholesterol and 0.49% cholic acid (cholesterol-enriched control (HC), cholesterol-enriched glucomannan (HG), and cholesterol-enriched glucomannan + spirulina (HGS) diets) over a 7-week period. C diet induced obesity, severe hyperglycemia, moderate hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Those facts were not significantly modified by G or GS diets. G diet increased CYP7A1 expression but decreased the total cholesterol/high density lipoproteins (HDL)-cholesterol ratio (p < 0.05) vs. C diet. GS vs. G diet increased (p < 0.05) CYP7A1 expression. HC vs. C diet reduced food intake, body weight gain, and plasma glucose (p < 0.01) but increased cholesterolemia (p < 0.01), lipidemia (plasma cholesterol plus triglycerides) (p < 0.001), cholesterol/triglyceride ratio in very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), and HDL (p < 0.05), cholesterol transported by VLDL and intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL) + low density lipoproteins (LDL), total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio and CYP7A1 expression (at least p < 0.05). HG and HGS diets vs. HC noticeably reduced lipidemia (p < 0.001), normalized VLDL and IDL + LDL lipid composition, and increased CYP7A1 expression (p < 0.01) but did not modify the cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio. HGS vs. HG decreased triglyceridemia, the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and increased arylesterase/HDL-cholesterol activity (p < 0.05). In conclusion, G- and GS-RP act as functional foods and notably blocked the dietary cholesterol effects. In addition, HGS-RP improved the glucomannan hypolipidemic effects, increased arylesterase/HDL-cholesterol activity, and decreased insulin resistance.

Effects of improved fat meat products consumption on emergent cardiovascular disease markers of male volunteers at cardiovascular risk

High meat-product consumption has been related to cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, previous results suggest the benefits of consuming improved fat meat products on lipoprotein-cholesterol and anthropometric measurements. Present study aims to assess the effect of consuming different Pâté and Frankfurter formulations on emergent CVD biomarkers in male volunteers at increased CVD risk. Eighteen male volunteers with at least two CVD risk factors were enrolled in a sequentially controlled study where different pork-products were tested: reduced-fat (RF), omega-3-enriched-RF (n-3RF), and normal-fat (NF). Pork-products were consumed during 4-week periods separated by 4-week washout. The cardiometabolic index (CI), oxidized low density lipoproteins (oxLDL), apolipoproteins (Apo) A1 and B, homocysteine (tHcys), arylesterase (AE), C-reactive Protein (CRP), tumor necrotic factor-alpha (TNFα), and lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) were tested and some other related ratios calculated. AE, oxLDL and Lp(a), AE/HDLc, LDLc/Apo B, and AE/oxLDL rate of change were differently affected (P<0.01) by pork-products consumption. RF increased (P < 0.05) AE, AE/HDLc and AE/oxLDL ratios and decreased TNFα, tHcys; n-3RF increased (P < 0.001) AE, AE/HDLc and AE/oxLDL ratios and decreased (P < 0.05) Lp(a); while NF increased (P<0.05) oxLDL and Lp(a) levels. In conclusion, RF and n-3RF products affected positively the level of some emergent CVD markers. The high regular consumption of NF-products should be limited as significantly increased Lp(a) and oxLDL values. The high variability in response observed for some markers suggests the need to perform more studies to identify targets for RF- and n-3RF-products. Graphical Abstract Emergent CVD markers.

A comprehensive approach to formulation of seaweed-enriched meat products: From technological development to assessment of healthy properties

Meat consumption is influenced by various kinds of factors, among them health implications. Different strategies can be effective in developing meat-based functional foods. These basically entail reducing the presence of compounds with negative health implications and enhancing the presence of beneficial compounds. This article reviews a comprehensive model for the development of meat-based functional foods based on a presentation of the research achieved in terms of the design and development of qualitatively and quantitatively modified meat products (frankfurters, patties and restructured steaks). These were reformulated to incorporate nutrients associated with three different seaweeds (wakame-Undaria pinnatifida; nori-Porphyra umbilicalis; and sea spaghetti-Himanthalia elongata) as sources of bioactive substances, while simultaneously reducing sodium and fat and improving fatty acid profiles. Those seaweeds were chosen, because in terms of composition and health implications, abundance on Spanish coasts, relatively widespread consumption, and suitability in terms of flavour and colour they are better suited than others for use as ingredients in new products. It also discusses the consequences of the use of this type of meat-based functional foods (combination of pork meat and 5% of each seaweed with or without hypercholesterolaemic agent included in the diets) on growing animals (Wistar male rats), and their effects on different aspects of lipoprotein metabolism, oxidative stress and liver structure. This article, then, reports a comprehensive approach to the production of seaweed-enriched meat products, considering aspects of technological development aimed at achieving the functional effect.

Maternal and neonatal FTO rs9939609 polymorphism affect insulin sensitivity markers and lipoprotein profile at birth in appropriate-for-gestational-age term neonates

The influence of maternal fat mass and obesity (FTO) gene polymorphism on neonatal insulin sensitivity/resistance biomarkers and lipoprotein profile has not been tested. The study aimed to assess the association between the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism in mother-neonate couples and neonatal anthropometrical measurements, insulin sensitivity/resistance, and lipid and lipoprotein concentrations at birth. Fifty-three term, appropriate-for-gestational-age, Caucasian newborns together with their respective mothers participated in a cross-sectional study. Sixty-six percent of mothers and neonates carried the A allele (being AA or AT). TT mothers gained less weight during pregnancy, but non-significant maternal gene influence was found for neonatal bodyweight, body mass index, or ponderal index. Neonates from AA + AT mothers showed lower glucose, insulin, and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) but higher homeostatic model assessment insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IS) and homocysteine than neonates whose mothers were TT. AA + AT neonates had higher insulin and HOMA-IR than TT. The genotype neonatal × maternal association was tested in the following four groups of neonates: TT neonates × TT mothers (nTT × mTT), TT neonates × AA + AT mothers (nTT × mAA + AT), AA + AT neonates × TT mothers (nAA + AT × mTT), and AA + AT neonates × AA + AT mothers (nAA + AT × mAA + AT). Non-significant interactions between neonatal and maternal alleles were found for any parameter tested. However, maternal alleles affected significantly glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, and homocysteine while neonatal alleles the arylesterase activity. Most significant differences were found between nATT + AA × mTT and nATT + AA × mAA + AT. Glycemia, insulinemia, and HOMA-IR were lower, while the Mediterranean diet adherence (MDA) was higher in the mAA + AT vs. mTT whose children were AA + AT. This dietary fact seems to counterbalance the potential negative effect on glucose homeostasis of the obesogenic A allele in neonates.

GLUCOMANNAN AND GLUCOMANNAN PLUS SPIRULINA-ENRICHED SQUID-SURIMI ADDED TO HIGH SATURATED DIET AFFECT GLYCEMIA, PLASMA AND ADIPOSE LEPTIN AND ADIPONECTIN LEVELS IN GROWING FA/FA RATS

Type 2 diabetes is a very prevalent chronic disease. Among dietary factors for its prevention and treatment, interest has grown in satiating fibre (konjac glucomannan) and spirulina. Our previous studies suggest that glucomannan itself and/or in conjunction to spirulina displayed hypolipemic and antioxidant effects when incorporated to squid surimi as functional ingredients. The present study aims to determine whether glucomannan- enriched or glucomannan plus spirulina-enriched squid-surimi improve plasma glucose and insulin levels in Zucker fa/fa rats fed a high saturated fat diet. Twenty four growing rats, divided into three groups, were given modified AIN-93M diets for seven weeks: 30% squid-surimi control diet (C), 30% glucomannan-enriched squid-surimi diet (G) and 30% glucomannan plus spirulina-enriched squid-surimi diet (GS). All rats became hyperglycemics and hyperinsulinemics, but G and GS diets induced significantly lower glucose levels (20%; p < 0.05) but did not modify insulinemia with respect to C diet. GS animals showed higher HOMA-D (p < 0.05) than C ones suggesting increased insulin availability. Plasma leptin and adiponectin decreased in G and GS vs. C group (p < 0.05). Adipose adiponectin increased significantly in G and GS vs. C rats (16-20 times, p < 0.01). Leptin in adipose tissue was higher in GS vs. G group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, both glucomannan-diets were able to reduce hyperglycemia and increase adipose tissue adiponectin levels in fa/fa rats, suggesting an anti-hypertrophic and insulin-sensitizing adipokine effect in this tissue. Spirulina inclusion increased insulin availability. Although results are promising, the utility of consuming glucomannan surimis as part of usual diets demands future studies.

Silicon-Enriched Restructured Pork Affects the Lipoprotein Profile, VLDL Oxidation, and LDL Receptor Gene Expression in Aged Rats Fed an Atherogenic Diet

BACKGROUND

Research has shown that silicon can play an important role in protecting against degenerative diseases. Restructuring pork by partially disassembling meat permits the incorporation of active components with potential functional effects. However, there has been no research to date on the impact that silicon, as a functional ingredient in restructured pork (RP), has on lipoprotein composition, metabolism, and oxidation.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of silicon-enriched RP on lipemia, lipoprotein profile, and oxidation markers of aged rats fed high-fat, high-energy, cholesterol-enriched diets.

METHODS

RP samples similar to commercial sausages (16% protein and 22% fat, wt:wt) were prepared by mixing lean pork and lard alone or with silicon (1.3 g Si/kg fresh matter) under controlled conditions and then freeze-dried. Saturated fat-rich diets were designed by mixing 78.3% purified diet with 21.7% freeze-dried RP. Three groups composed of 8 aged male Wistar rats (1 y old) were fed for 8 wk a control RP (C) diet, a cholesterol-enriched RP (Chol-C) diet [C diet enriched with 1.26% cholesterol plus 0.25% cholic acid, or a cholesterol and silicon-enriched RP (Chol-Si) diet (same as the Chol-C diet but containing silicon)]. Plasma lipid concentrations, lipoprotein profile, the degree of VLDL oxidation, and LDL receptor gene (Ldlr) expression were tested.

RESULTS

Compared with the C diet, the Chol-C diet did not modify food intake or body weight but significantly increased (P < 0.05) plasma cholesterol (32%) and total lipids (19%), VLDL and intermediate density lipoprotein + LDL cholesterol (both >600%), total lipids and proteins (both >300%), and the degree of VLDL oxidation [conjugated dienes >250%; thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS), 900%] and reduced Ldlr expression (64%) and liver arylesterase activity (54%). The Chol-Si diet partially normalized changes induced by the Chol-C diet. Compared with the Chol-C group, Chol-Si rats had lower VLDL compound concentrations (P < 0.001; e.g., 75% less VLDL cholesterol) and VLDL oxidation (65% less conjugated dienes and 85% less TBARS) but greater Ldlr expression (200%).

CONCLUSIONS

Silicon added to RP strongly counterbalanced the negative effect of high-cholesterol-ingestion, functioning as an active hypocholesterolemic, hypolipemic, and antioxidative dietary ingredient in aged rats.

IMPACT OF IMPROVED FAT-MEAT PRODUCTS CONSUMPTION ON ANTHROPOMETRIC MARKERS AND NUTRIENT INTAKES OF MALE VOLUNTEERS AT INCREASED CARDIOVASCULAR RISK

INTRODUCTION

meat products have been recognized to be adequate matrix for incorporating functional ingredients. The impact of meat products formulated by replacing animal fat with a combination of olive, linseed and fish oils on energy and nutrient intakes and anthropometric measurements were tested in a non-randomized-controlled- sequential study.

METHODS

eighteen male volunteers at high-CVD risk consumed weekly 200 g frankfurters and 250 g pâtés during three 4-wk periods (reduced fat (RF); n3-enriched- RF (n-3RF), and normal fat (NF)), separated by 4-wk washout. Energy and nutrient intakes, healthy eating index (HEI), and anthropometric changes were evaluated.

RESULTS

body fat mass rate-of-change and the waist/ hip ratio significantly differs (p = 0.018 and p = 0.031, respectively) between periods, decreasing body fat mass, waist circumference and waist/hip ratio in RF period and increasing body fat mass in NF one (all p = 0.05). Significant inverse correlations were observed between rate- of-change of BMI and ideal body weight with dietary carbohydrate/SFA ratio in n-3RF period (p = 0.003 and p = 0.006, respectively). Initial diets presented low HEIs (means < 60). Carbohydrate, fat and protein energy contribution was 40%, 41%, and 16%, respectively. More than 33% of volunteers did not initially cover 70% of several minerals and vitamins RDAs. Product consumption improved dietary Zn, Ca, retinol equivalent, folate and vitamin B12 contents in all periods, and ameliorated n-3 PUFA contents and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio over the n-3RF period.

CONCLUSION

improved-fat meat products appear as functional foods for overweight/obeses since their consumption improved selected body-fat markers, without affecting HEI, macronutrient and energy but their n-3 PUFA and n6/n3 ratio intakes.

Influence of Picual olive ripening on virgin olive oil alteration and stability during potato frying

Ripening modifies oil attributes and composition. However, the influence of olive ripening on virgin olive oil (VOO) thermal oxidative stability on food-frying has not been studied yet. Oils from Picual olives of low (VOO1), medium (VOO2), and high (VOO3) ripeness were obtained, and their thermal oxidative stability during 40 potato-fryings was tested. Unused VOO1 showed higher antioxidant content and oxidative stability than VOO2 and VOO3. Polar compounds (PC), oligomers, and altered fatty acid methyl esters (polar-FAME) increased, whereas linoleic acid, polyphenols, and tocopherols decreased in the three VOOs through frying. The alteration was lower in VOO1, followed by VOO2 (0.105, 0.117, and 0.042 g/100 g oil less of PC, oligomers and polar-FAME per frying, respectively, in VOO1 than in VOO3). In conclusion, VOO obtained from low-ripeness Picual olives should be preferred when frying fresh-potatoes due to its higher thermal and oxidative stability, permitting a higher number of potato-frying uses.

Adherence to Mediterranean diet during pregnancy and serum lipid, lipoprotein and homocysteine concentrations at birth

BACKGROUND

Mediterranean diet consumption is associated to low prevalence of major degenerative diseases. Low Mediterranean-diet-adherence (MDA) score has been related to high insulin and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance levels at birth. The relationship between maternal MDA and offspring lipoprotein profile at birth has been scarcely reported.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study aimed to study the relationship between pregnancy diet quality and serum lipid, arylesterase and homocysteine values at birth. Cord blood of the offspring of 35 women whose diets were classified as "adequate" or "inadequate" according to their 13-point MDA-score (≥7 or <7, respectively) were studied.

RESULTS

MDA-scores did not significantly change through pregnancy. Low-MDA-score diets presented a higher atherogenic index, contained less fiber and folates, and had a lower (polyunsaturated + monounsaturated)/saturated fatty acids (PUFA + MUFA/SFA) ratio, more cholesterol, and higher SFA/carbohydrates (SFA/CHO) and ω-6/ω-3 PUFA ratios than their respective high-MDA-score counterparts. Mothers at the low MDA-score delivered neonates with high LDL-c (P = 0.049), Apo B (P = 0.040), homocysteine (P = 0.026) and Apo A1/Apo B ratio (P = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Neonates whose mothers consumed low MDA diets presented impaired lipoprotein and increased homocysteine levels at birth. A follow-up study on early cardiovascular disease prevention is needed to understand the importance of present findings later in life.

Organic silicon protects human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells against hydrogen peroxide effects

Background

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a toxic agent that induces oxidative stress and cell death. Silicon (Si) is a biological element involved in limiting aluminium (Al) absorption with possible preventive effects in Alzheimer’s disease. However, Si has not yet been associated with other neuroprotective mechanisms.

Methods

The present experiments evaluated in the SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line the possible role of different Si G5 (50-1000 ng/mL) concentrations in preventing cellular death induced by H₂O₂ (400 μM, 24 hours).

Results

Our findings showed that H₂O₂ promoted cell death in the human SH-SY5Y cell cultures and this could be prevented by Si treatment. The loss in cell viability mediated by H₂O₂ was due to an apoptotic and necrotic process. Apoptotic death was incurred by regulating caspase-8 activity in the extrinsic pathway. The apoptotic and necrotic cell death induced by H₂O₂ was almost totally reversed by Si (50-500 ng/mL), indicating that it down-regulates both processes in H₂O₂ treated cells.

Conclusions

According to our data, Si is able to increase SH-SY5Y cell survival throughout partially blocking cellular damage related to oxidative stress through a mechanism that would affect H₂O₂/ROS elimination.

Conicity index as a contributor marker of inflammation in haemodialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal fat mass is an important risk factor of inflammation in the general population as it is in haemodialysis (HD) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of adiposity using the conicity index (Ci) with nutritional-inflammatory markers and to analyse whether these factors were related with the clinical outcome in HD patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study in 80 HD patients (men, 65%; aged 68.2 ± 14.2) was carried out. Abdominal fat deposition was evaluated by Ci median with regard to baseline inflammatory, anthropomorphic, and nutritional markers. Linear regression analysis was applied to identify whether serum C-reactive protein (CRP), as an inflammatory biomarker, was an independent predictor of Ci in HD patients.

RESULTS

Mean Ci was significantly greater in men (p = 0.001). Significant positive correlations were observed between Ci and serum triglycerides (r = 0.23; p < 0.05) and Ln of serum CRP (r = 0.27; p < 0.01). A significantly higher median Ci (men ≥ 1.39 and women ≥ 1.33) was observed in inflammated overweight patients by multivariate analysis (p < 0.05). Serum CRP, as an inflammatory biomarker, was a significant predictor (p = 0.021) of Ci, but its predictive value disappeared after median Ci adjustment of linear regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Abdominal fat mass, measured by Ci, appears directly linked to inflammation in dialysis. Results support the hypothesis that inflammation in HD patients has pleiotropic effects depending on abdominal body adiposity.

Protective effects of sea spaghetti-enriched restructured pork against dietary cholesterol: effects on arylesterase and lipoprotein profile and composition of growing rats

There is a general assumption that seaweeds are hypocholesterolemics and antioxidants. However, controversial results suggest specific properties for each individual alga. This study aims to assess the effect of including Sea Spaghetti alga (S) in a restructured-pork (RP) diet, both enriched and not enriched with dietary cholesterol, on arylesterase (AE) activity and lipoprotein concentration and composition of Wistar rats. Four groups of 10 growing male Wistar rats were each fed a mix of 85% AIN-93M diet and 15% freeze-dried RP for 5 weeks. The control group (C) consumed control RP-C; the S group consumed RP-S with 5% seaweeds; the Chol-C group consumed the C diet but enriched with cholesterol (2.43%) and cholic acid (0.49%); the Chol-S group consumed the S diet but enriched with cholesterol and cholic acid. AE activity was five times higher (P<.01) in S compared with C rats, but three times lower in Chol-S compared with Chol-C rats (P<.01). The Chol-C diet induced hypercholesterolemia but reduced triglycerides (TG), giving rise to the presence of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) that was enriched in cholesterol. The Chol-S diet partially blocked (P<.001) the hypercholesterolemic induction of the Chol-C diet, and reduced TG levels (P<.05) with respect to S rats. The cholesterol supplementation increased total cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, and intermediate-density lipoprotein+LDL-cholesterol (IDL+LDL)-cholesterol (P<.001) in Chol-C rats, but the effect was lower in the Chol-S diet. In conclusion, RP-S increases the antioxidant capacity within a noncholesterol enriched diet while improving the lipoprotein profile within a cholesterol-enriched diet.

Effects of Undaria pinnatifida, Himanthalia elongata and Porphyra umbilicalis extracts on in vitro α-glucosidase activity and glucose diffusion

BACKGROUND

Seaweeds are good sources of dietary fibre, which can influence glucose uptake and glycemic control.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate and compare the in vitro inhibitory activity of different extracts from Undaria pinnatifida (Wakame), Himanthalia elongata (Sea spaghetti) and Porphyra umbilicalis (Nori) on α-glucosidase activity and glucose diffusion.

METHODS

The in vitro effects Chloroform-, ethanol- and water-soluble extracts of the three algae were assayed on α- glucosidase activity and glucose diffusion through membrane. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) was applied to identify patterns in the data and to discriminate which extract will show the most proper effect.

RESULTS

Only water extracts of Sea spaghetti possessed significant in vitro inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase activity (26.2% less mmol/L glucose production than control, p < 0.05) at 75 min. PCA distinguished Sea spaghetti effects, supporting that soluble fibre and polyphenols were involved. After 6 h, Ethanol-Sea spaghetti and water-Wakame extracts exerted the highest inhibitory effects on glucose diffusion (65.0% and 60.2% vs control, respectively). This extracts displayed the lowest slopes for glucose diffusion-time lineal adjustments (68.2% and 62.8% vs control, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The seaweed hypoglycemic effects appear multi-faceted and not necessarily concatenated. According to present results, ethanol and water extracts of Sea spaghetti, and water extracts of Wakame could be useful for the development of functional foods with specific hypoglycemic properties.

Arylesterase activity is associated with antioxidant intake and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) gene methylation in metabolic syndrome patients following an energy restricted diet

The arylesterase (ARE) activity linked to the paraoxonase-1 (PON1) gene is known to protect lipoproteins from oxidation and provide defense against metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular diseases. The epigenetic regulation of enzymatic activities is gaining importance nowadays. This research aimed to assess the potential relationships between the ARE activity with the methylation levels of the PON1 gene transcriptional regulatory region, anthropometrics, biochemical markers and antioxidant dietary components. Forty-seven subjects (47 ± 10 y.o; BMI 36.2 ± 3.8 kg/m(2); 46.8 % female) with MetS features, who followed a six-month energy-restricted dietary weight-loss intervention, were included in this study (www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCT01087086). Anthropometric, biochemical, enzymatic and dietary data were assessed using validated procedures. PON1 transcriptional regulatory region methylation was analyzed by a microarray technical approach. Volunteers reduced ARE activity in parallel with body weight (p = 0.005), BMI (p = 0.006), total fat mass (p = 0.020), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.018), mean blood pressure (p = 0.022) and triglycerides (p = 0.014). Methylation levels of some CpG sites of the PON1 gene correlated negatively with ARE activity (p < 0.05). Interestingly, dietary vitamin C (p = 0.001), tocopherols (p = 0.009) and lycopene (p = 0.038) were positively associated with ARE activity and showed an inverse correlation (p = 0.004, p = 0.029 and p = 0.021, respectively) with the methylation of some selected CpG sites of the PON1 gene. In conclusion, ARE activity decreased in parallel with MetS-related markers associated to the energy restriction, while dietary antioxidants might enhance the ARE activity by lowering the PON1 gene methylation in patients with MetS features.

A clinical approach to the nutritional care process in protein-energy wasting hemodialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

Malnutrition/wasting/cachexia are complex-disease conditions that frequently remain undiagnosed and/or untreated in up to 75% of prevalent hemodialysis (HD) patients. The nutrition care process (NCP) based on assessment, diagnosis, intervention and monitoring of nutritional status is a systematic method that nutrition professionals use to make decisions in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

This review examines from a clinical-nutritional practice point of view: a) nutritional status as a mortality causative factor; b) phenotypic characteristics of malnutrition/wasting/cachexia, and c) current trends of NCP with special emphasis on nutritional support and novel nutrient and pharmacologic adjunctive therapies in HD patients.

METHOD

A literature review was conducted using the Pubmed, Science Direct, Scielo, Scopus, and Medline electronic scientific basis. Studies which assessing nutritional status and nutritional support published from 1990 to 2013 in HD patients were included and discussed.

RESULTS

From all the epidemiological data analyzed, NCP was the suggested method for identifying malnutrition/ wasting or cachexia in clinical practice. Nutrition support as an unimodal therapy was not completely able to reverse wasting in HD patients. Novel experimental therapeutic strategies including the use of appetite stimulants, ghrelin agonist, MC4-R antagonists, anabolic steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, cholecalciferol, and other components are still under clinical evaluation.

CONCLUSION

Nutritional status is a strong predictor of morbidity and mortality in HD patients. The terms called malnutrition, wasting and cachexia have different nutritional therapeutics implications. The NCP is a necessary tool for assessing and monitoring nutritional status in the current clinical practice. Novel pharmacological therapies or specific nutrient supplementation interventions studies are required.

[Maternal nutrition during pregnancy conditions the fetal pancreas development, hormonal status and diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome biomarkers at birth]

Pregnancy is a vital period where several hyperplasic, hypertrophic processes together with metabolic adaptation and preparation for extra-uterine life take place. Present review accounts for central aspects of nutrition throughout gestation on the embryonic and fetal periods. It is centered in the major changes occurring in fetal pancreas, with special mention to the susceptibility of this main glucose homeostasis organ to support nutritional changes during maturation and development. Studies performed in animal models as human are commented considering the role of maternal nutrition on β-cell mass size, insulin and other pancreatic hormones production, and insulin sensitivity. Details of both the thrifty genotype and phenotype hypothesis are given, indicating that hypo/subnutrition causes metabolic adaptations that permit the future body to grow and develop itself in limited environmental and energetic conditions. The Barker hypothesis is considered suggesting that this metabolic hypothesis is a double-edged sword in the actual abundance World. Lastly the review, taking into account our own research and other papers, analyses less known aspects that relate maternal diet with insulin resistance/sensitivity markers at delivery. Particularly the role of the saturated fatty acid/carbohydrate and omega-6/omega-3 ratios in the frame of maternal diet is reviewed considering the quality of those diets under the Healthy Eating Index and the Adherence to Mediterranean Diet scores and the relationship with insulin resistance profile at birth. Present review ends indicating that nutritional habits should be strongly stated before gestation in order to assure a proper nutrition since the first moment of pregnancy. This will support an adequate fetal and pancreatic growth and development, and in turn, adequate glucose homeostasis during pregnancy and later in life, slowing down or preventing from degenerative diseases related with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Liver oxidation and inflammation in Fa/Fa rats fed glucomannan/spirulina-surimi

The effect of high-fat squid-surimi diets enriched in glucomannan or glucomannan-spirulina on lipemia, liver glutathione status, antioxidant enzymes and inflammation biomarkers was determined in Zucker Fa/Fa rats. Groups of eight rats each received for 7weeks the squid-surimi control (C), glucomannan-enriched squid-surimi (G) and glucomannan-spirulina enriched squid-surimi (GS). Liver weight, cytochrome P450 7A1 expression and cholesterolemia were decreased in G and GS vs. C, improving glutathione red-ox index (p<0.05). G also showed increased glutathione reductase (GR) levels vs. C, but reduced the endothelial (eNOS) and increased the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels (p<0.05). The GS diet improved superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and GR activities and eNOS, iNOS and TNF-α levels (p<0.05). The glucomannan enriched surimi-diet induced hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant and proinflammatory effects, while the addition of 3g/kg spirulina kept those hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant effects but reduced the inflammation observed.

Relationships between serum calcium and magnesium levels and lipoproteins, homocysteine and insulin resistance/sensitivity markers at birth

BACKGROUND

The relationship between serum minerals and homocysteine, lipoprotein and glucose homeostasis markers at birth has been scarcely reported. This study aims to determine a) the relationship between calcium, magnesium, cardiovascular disease (CVD) markers (e.g. lipids, lipoproteins, homocysteine) and insulin sensitivity/ resistance markers (e.g. glucose, insulin, HOMA) in cord serum; and b) to find out the possible influence of reduced or increased levels of serum calcium and magnesium on those markers.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty-eight eutocic, normoweight and appropriated-for-gestational age, full-term, singleton without foetal distress newborns from the Mérida Study were studied. Parameter percentiles for serum calcium and magnesium as well as for the Ca/Mg ratio were stated. CVD and insulin sensitivity/resistance markers in neonates within the first quartile for calcium, magnesium and their ratio were compared with those of neonates within the forth quartile for these minerals.

RESULTS

Serum calcium negative correlated with HDL-c (p<0.05), arylesterase (AE) (p<0.01), the Apo A1/Apo B (p<0.05) and AE/HDL-c (p<0.05) ratios. Also, negative and significant correlations were found between the Ca/Mg ratio and AE (p<0.01), and AE/HDL-c (p<0.05). Neonates within the highest quartile for Mg displayed significantly higher levels of LDL-c and homocysteine (p<0.05). Newborns within the Ca/Mg ratio first quartile presented higher activities of AE while those of with high Ca/Mg ratio showed low levels of insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

Calcium and magnesium levels appear related to CVD and insulin sensitivity/resistance markers at birth. Future follow-up studies, mostly in neonates, with high magnesemia and/or high Ca/Mg ratio at birth are recommended.

Nori- and sea spaghetti- but not wakame-restructured pork decrease the hypercholesterolemic and liver proapototic short-term effects of high-dietary cholesterol consumption

Restructured pork (RP) enriched in Seaweeds are potential functional foods. The antiapoptotic and hypocholesterolemic effects of consuming cholesterol enriched diets containing Wakame-RP (CW), Nori-RP (CN) and Sea Spaghetti (CS) were tested in a 1-wk study. Groups of six rats per group were fed a mix of 85% AIN-93M rodent-diet containing cholesterol and cholic acid as a cholesterol rising agent plus 15% RP containing alga. These diets were compared to control-RP diets enriched or not in cholesterol (CC and C, respectively). After 1-wk, cholesterol feeding significantly increased liver apoptosis markers which were significantly reduced by CS (cellular cycle DNA, caspase-3, and cytochrome c), CN (caspase-3 and cytochrome c) and CW (caspase-3) diets. CN and CS diets significantly blocked the cholesterolaemic rising effect observed in the CC group but no protective effect was observed in the CW group. Differences in seaweed composition added to RP appear responsible for blocking or not the proapoptotic and hypercholesterolemic effects of high cholesterol-RP consumption; thus, any generalization on seaweed effects or food containing seaweeds must be avoided. Although present results are worthy, future studies are demanded to ascertain the utility of consuming algal-RP as part of usual diets.

Cord-blood lipoproteins, homocysteine, insulin sensitivity/resistance marker profile, and concurrence of dysglycaemia and dyslipaemia in full-term neonates of the Mérida Study

Early alterations in glucose homeostasis increase the risk of developing insulin resistance and obesity later in life. The concurrence of altered lipids and insulin sensitivity/resistance markers at birth has been scarcely investigated. The study aimed to ascertain level ranges of homocysteine (tHcyt), arylesterase (AE), lipids/lipoproteins, and insulin resistance/sensitivity markers in full-term neonates and to determine the concurrence effect of dyslipaemia and dysglycaemia on those parameters at birth. Participants were 197 full-term, 2.5 to <4.0 kg, without foetal distress Spanish newborns from the Mérida Study. Parameter percentiles for males and females were stated. The effect of the concurrence high glucose/high triglycerides (high glucose/high TG) or high glucose/low cholesterol transported by HDL (HDL-c) on tHcyt, LDL-c, HDL-c, lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), oxidised LDL (oxLDL), AE, glucose, insulin sensitivity (QUICKI) and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was studied. Females had higher total cholesterol (TC), HDL-c, Apo A1, Lp(a) and HDL-c/Apo A1, but lower relative transport of TC (%TC) by the very low lipoprotein fraction than males. No gender differences were found for glucose, HOMA-IR and QUICKI. Neonates at the 2.5- to 2.999-kg range display more adequate HOMA-IR and QUICKI levels that their >3.0 kg counterparts. The concurrence of high glucose/high TG or high glucose/low HDL-c increased TC/HDL-c and HOMA-IR, but decreased, oxLDL, oxLDL/LDL-c and QUICKI with respect to that of low glucose/low TG or glucose/high HDL-c. The concurrence glucose/TG has predictive value for low QUICKI, whilst that of glucose/HDL-c for low QUICKI and high HOMA-IR, suggesting the importance of routine TG, HDL-c and glucose screening at birth as it would identify candidates for insulin resistance.

Effects of seaweed-restructured pork diets enriched or not with cholesterol on rat cholesterolaemia and liver damage

Seaweed enriched-restructured pork (RP) is a potential functional food. However, indications of adverse effects associated with herbal medications, which include among others liver failure, toxic hepatitis, and death have been reported. Cholesterol feeding produces hepatomegalia and fat liver infiltration. The effect of seaweed-RP diet, cholesterol-enriched or not, on plasma cholesterol, liver damage markers, structure, and cytochrome CYP4A-1 were evaluated after 5 wk. Eight rat groups were fed a mix of 85% AIN-93M rodent-diet plus 15% RP. The Cholesterol-control (CC), Cholesterol-Wakame (CW), Cholesterol-Nori (CN) and Cholesterol-Sea Spaghetti (CS) groups respectively consumed similar diets to control (C), Wakame (W), Nori (N), and Sea Spaghetti (S) but as part of hypercholesterolaemic diets. CN and CS significantly blocked the hypercholesterolaemic effect observed in CC group. After 5-wk, N and S diets increased the CYP4A-1 expression. However, seaweed-RPs were unable to reduce the histological liver alterations observed in CC group. Larger and more abundant hepatocellular alterations were found in CS and CN rats suggesting that the hypocholesterolaemic effects of these seaweed-RPs seem to be a two-edged sword as they increased liver damage. Future studies are needed to understand the involved mechanisms.

Development and assessment of healthy properties of meat and meat products designed as functional foods

This review deals with the two major aspects to be considered in the context of meat-based functional foods and human health. One involves the different strategies used to improve (increase or reduce) the presence of bioactive (healthy and unhealthy) compounds in meat and meat products in order to develop potential meat-based functional foods; these strategies are basically concerned with animal production practices, meat processing and storage, distribution and consumption conditions. Since the link between the consumption of those foods and their potentially beneficial effects (improving health and/or reducing the risk of several chronic diseases) needs to be demonstrated scientifically, the second aspect considered is related to intervention studies to examine the functional capacity of meat-based potentially functional foods in humans, discussing how the functionality of a food can be assessed in terms of its effects on health in relation to both target body functions and risk factors.

Effects of restructured pork containing Himanthalia elongata on adipose tissue lipogenic and lipolytic enzyme expression of normo- and hypercholesterolemic rats

BACKGROUND

Inclusion of seaweeds in restructured pork (RP) would improve meat health properties.

AIM

The aim was to determine the effects of RP containing Himanthalia elongata on growth, organ weight, cholesterolemia, and expression of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) in adipose tissue of Wistar rats.

METHODS

The control group (C) consumed control RP, and the seaweed group (SS) consumed RP with 5% Himanthalia elongata. Animals on cholesterol-enriched diets (CholC, CholSS) consumed their corresponding basal diets with supplementary cholesterol (2.43%) plus cholic acid (0.49%) as hypercholesterolemic agents.

RESULTS

Seaweed inclusion did not modify cholesterolemia but reduced (p < 0.01) the hypercholesterolemic effect of dietary cholesterol plus cholic acid. CholC rats presented lower (p < 0.05) adipose fat and weight than C rats. Cholesterol feeding affected HSL, ACC, and FAS expression (p < 0.05), while alga consumption influenced HSL and ACC (p < 0.05). LPL was not significantly affected by both factors. CholSS rats showed decreased HSL and FAS (p < 0.05) but increased ACC (p < 0.05) expression compared with CholC rats.

CONCLUSION

Himanthalia RP partially blocked the dietary hypercholesterolemic effect and changed the lipogenic/lipolytic enzyme expression, reducing the wasting effect of hypercholesterolemia on adipose tissue in rats.

Dietary fibre and cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in developed countries. CVD is an inflammatory disease associated with risk factors that include hypercholesterolemia and hypertension. Furthermore, the evolution of this disease depends on the amount of modified lipoproteins (e.g. oxidized) present in the arterial subendothelium. Diet is considered the cornerstone for CVD treatment, as it can lower not only atherogenic lipoprotein levels and degree of oxidation, but also blood pressure, thrombogenesis and concentrations of some relevant factors (e.g. homocystein).Among different diets, the Mediterranean diet stands out due to their benefits on several health benefits, in particular with regard to CVD. Rich in vegetable foods, this diet contributes both quantitatively and qualitatively to essential fibre compounds (cellulose, hemicellulose, gums, mucilages, pectins, oligosaccharides, lignins, etc.). The present paper analyzes the effects of fibre consumption on a) cholesterol and lipoprotein levels; b) systolic and diastolic blood pressures; and c) antioxidant availability and profile. Some studies and meta-analysis are revised, as the possible mechanisms by which fibre may decrease plasma total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and blood pressure and to act as antioxidant, as well. In addition, author's own publications regarding the effect of fibre matrix (e.g. seaweeds) on arylesterase and the gene expression of some key antioxidant enzymes are reviewed. The paper also includes data concerning the possible interaction between fibre and some hypolipemic drugs, which may make it possible to attain similar hypolipemic effects with lower dosages, with the consequent decrease in possible side effects. The review concludes with a summary of nutritional objectives related to the consumption of carbohydrates and fibre supplements.

Blood pressure of omnivorous and semi-vegetarian postmenopausal women and their relationship with dietary and hair concentrations of essential and toxic metals

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to ascertain the relationships between mineral consumption, hair mineral content, and blood pressure.

METHODS

The study involved 26 postmenopausal women from enclosed religious communities, 14 were semi-vegetarians and 12 were omnivores. Mineral dietary assessment was performed using a 14-d precise weight method and Food tables. Hair mineral levels were measured by means Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Multivariable stepwise linear regression analyses were performed to find out the variables that affected most blood pressure.

RESULTS

In general terms, the omnivorous diet contained a significantly higher mineral content than the semi-vegetarian one. The mineral intake from both diets implied no health risk to the women studied, as their estimated daily intake (EDI) of toxic elements such as Cd and Pb was lower than their respective provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) of these minerals. Hair of the semi-vegetarians contained higher amounts of Al (p < 0.01), Ba (p < 0.01), K (p < 0.001), Na (p < 0.001), Pb (p < 0.001) and Mn (p < 0.01) but lower levels of Ca (p < 0.05) and Zn (p < 0.05) than that of their omnivorous counterparts. The omnivores presented significantly higher systolic (p < 0.01) and diastolic (p < 0.05) pressures than the semi-vegetarians. Levels of hair Co (R² = 0.328; p = 0.032) and hair K (R² = 0.409; p = 0.014)) were explicative for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Several dietary mineral and hair contents were higher in semi-vegetarian women suggesting that the hair is an important mineral excretion via contributing to maintain blood pressure at low levels.