Identification and Characterization of Neuroprotective Properties of Thaumatin-like Protein 1a from Annurca Apple Flesh Polyphenol Extract

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are multifactorial neurodegenerative disorders that are mostly treated with drugs inhibiting key enzymes of cholinergic and aminergic neurotransmission, such as acetyl and butyryl cholinesterase (AChE, BuChE) or monoamine oxidases (MAO)-A/B, and of Aβ1-40 aggregation. Diet plant components with multitarget functions are promising compounds in the prevention of AD and PD. Our aim was to identify neuroprotective compounds from Annurca apple polyphenol extract (AFPE).

METHODS

AFPE was fractionated by gel filtration, and the eluted peaks were subjected to chemical analyses (i.e., RP-HPLC and mass spectrometry), determination of inhibitory enzyme activity and cell effects by MTT, and morphology assays.

RESULTS

In AFPE, we identified thaumatin-like protein 1a, belonging to the pathogenesis-related protein (PR) family. This protein showed the best inhibitory activity on AChE, MAO-A (IC50 = 5.53 µM and 1.71 µM, respectively), and Aβ1-40 fibril aggregation (IC50 = 9.16 µM), compared to AFPE and other polyphenol-containing fractions. Among the latter, Peak 4 reverted Aβ fibril formation (IC50 = 104.87 µM). Moreover, thaumatin-like protein 1a protected AGS and MKN-28 cells from serum-deprivation-induced stress conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

We showed that AFPE exerted neuroprotective functions not only through its polyphenols but also through thaumatin-like protein 1a, which acted like a multitarget molecule.

Natural compound glycyrrhetinic acid protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

As one of the most classic antineoplastic agents, doxorubicin (Dox) is extensively used to treat a wide range of cancers. Nevertheless, the clinical outcomes of Dox-based therapies are severely hampered due to the significant cardiotoxicity. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is the major biologically active compound of licorice, one of the most well-known food additives and medicinal plants in the world. We previously demonstrated that GA has the potential capability to protect mice from Dox-induced cardiac injuries. However, the underlying cardioprotective mechanism remains unexplored.

PURPOSE

To investigate the cardioprotective benefits of GA against Dox-induced cardiotoxicity and to elucidate its mechanisms of action.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

H9c2 cardiomyoblasts and AC16 cardiomyocytes were used as the cell models in vitro. A transgenic zebrafish model and a 4T1 mouse breast cancer model were applied to explore the cardioprotective effects of GA in vivo.

RESULTS

In vitro, GA inhibited Dox-induced cell death and LDH release in H9c2 and AC16 cells without affecting the anti-cancer effects of Dox. GA significantly alleviated Dox-induced ROS generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis in H9c2 cells. Moreover, GA abolished the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins and restored Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in Dox-treated H9c2 cells. On the contrary, Nrf2 knockdown strongly abrogated the cardioprotective effects of GA on Dox-treated H9c2 cells. In vivo, GA attenuated Dox-induced cardiac dysfunction by restoring stroke volume, cardiac output, and fractional shortening in the transgenic zebrafish embryos. In a 4T1 mouse breast cancer model, GA dramatically prevented body weight loss, attenuated cardiac dysfunction, and prolonged survival rate in Dox-treated mice, without compromising Dox's anti-tumor efficacy. Consistently, GA attenuated oxidative injury, reduced cardiomyocytes apoptosis, and restored the expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 in Dox-treated mouse hearts.

CONCLUSION

GA protects against Dox-induced cardiotoxicity by suppressing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis via upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. These findings could provide solid evidence to support the further development of GA as a feasible and safe adjuvant to Dox chemotherapy for overcoming Dox-induced cardiotoxicity.

Trilobatin rescues cognitive impairment of Alzheimer's disease by targeting HMGB1 through mediating SIRT3/SOD2 signaling pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with cognitive impairment that currently is uncurable. Previous study shows that trilobatin (TLB), a naturally occurring food additive, exerts neuroprotective effect in experimental models of AD. In the present study we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effect of TLB on experimental models of AD in vivo and in vitro. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were administered TLB (4, 8 mg· kg-1 ·d-1, i.g.) for 3 months; rats were subjected to ICV injection of Aβ25-35, followed by administration of TLB (2.5, 5, 10 mg· kg-1 ·d-1, i.g.) for 14 days. We showed that TLB administration significantly and dose-dependently ameliorated the cognitive deficits in the two AD animal models, assessed in open field test, novel object recognition test, Y-maze test and Morris water maze test. Furthermore, TLB administration dose-dependently inhibited microglia and astrocyte activation in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 transgenic mice accompanied by decreased expression of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), TLR4 and NF-κB. In Aβ25-25-treated BV2 cells, TLB (12.5-50 μM) concentration-dependently increased the cell viability through inhibiting HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. HMGB1 overexpression abrogated the beneficial effects of TLB on BV2 cells after Aβ25-35 insults. Molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance assay revealed that TLB directly bound to HMGB1 with a KD value of 8.541×10-4 M. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TLB inhibited Aβ25-35-induced acetylation of HMGB1 through activating SIRT3/SOD2 signaling pathway, thereby restoring redox homeostasis and suppressing neuroinflammation. These results, for the first time, unravel a new property of TLB: rescuing cognitive impairment of AD via targeting HMGB1 and activating SIRT3/SOD2 signaling pathway.

Therapeutic Effect, Rheological Properties and α-Amylase Resistance of a New Mixed Starch and Xanthan Gum Thickener on Four Different Phenotypes of Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

Thickened fluids are a therapeutic strategy for oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD). However, its therapeutic effect among different phenotypes of OD patients has not yet been compared. We aimed to assess the therapeutic effect and α-amylase resistance of a mixed gum/starch thickener [Fresubin Clear Thickener^® (FCT)] on four phenotypes of OD patients: G1) 36 older; G2) 31 head/neck cancer (HNC); G3) 30 Parkinson’s disease; and G4) 31 chronic post-stroke. Therapeutic effect of FCT was assessed during videofluoroscopy using the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), for 5/20 mL boluses, at four levels of shear-viscosity (<50, 250, 1000 and 2000 mPa·s). The effect of α-amylase was assessed after 30 s of oral incubation. Patients had high prevalence of VFS signs of impaired efficacy (98.44%) and safety (70.31%) of swallow with a severe PAS score (4.44 ± 0.20). Most severe OD was in HNC (80.6% unsafe swallows). FCT showed a strong therapeutic effect on the safety of swallow at a range between 250–1000 mPa·s (74.19–96.67%, safe swallows in G1, G3, G4, and 58.06% in G2), without increasing pharyngeal residue. Viscosity was unaffected by α-amylase. Increasing shear-viscosity with FCT causes a strong viscosity-dependent therapeutic effect on the safety of swallow. This effect depends on the phenotype and is similar among older, Parkinson’s and post-stroke patients.

Phycocyanin Reduces Proliferation of Melanoma Cells through Downregulating GRB2/ERK Signaling

As a type of functional food additive, phycocyanin is shown to have a potential antineoplastic property. However, its underlying anticancer mechanism in melanoma cells remains unknown. We previously reported a 35S in vivo/vitro labeling analysis for dynamic proteomic (SiLAD) technology. It could exclusively detect protein synthesis rates via pulse labeling of newly expressed proteins by 35S, providing a high time-resolution method for analysis of protein variations. In the present study, we performed a time course analysis in A375 melanoma cells after phycocyanin treatment using SiLAD. Protein expression velocities were specifically visualized and their regulation modes were dynamically traced. Strikingly, novel protein synthesis patterns were discovered in the early phase of phycocyanin treatment, suggesting a possible mechanism of phycocyanin regulation. Furthermore, network analysis and phenotype experiments demonstrated that GRB2-ERK1/2 pathway was involved in phycocyanin-mediated regulation process and responsible for the proliferation suppression of melanoma cell, which could be a therapeutic target for malignant melanoma.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of a school-based dental caries prevention program using fluoridated milk in Bangkok, Thailand

BACKGROUND

This study modelled the cost-effectiveness, from a societal perspective, of a program that used fluoridated milk to prevent dental caries in children who were 6 years old at the beginning of the program, versus non-intervention, after 6 years.

METHODS

After 6 years, children in the milk-fluoridation program had a significant (34%) reduction in dental caries experience compared to those in the comparison community (i.e., received school milk without added fluoride) (DMFS: 1.06 vs. 1.60).

RESULTS

This improvement was achieved with an investment of Thailand Baht (THB) 5,345,048 over 6 years (or THB 11.88 per child, per year) (1 US$ = THB(2011) 30.0). When comparing the costs of the operation of the program and dental treatment in the test community with those of the comparison community, the program resulted in a net societal savings of THB 8,177,179 (range 18,597,122 to THB 7,920,711) after 6 years. This investment would result in 40,500 DMFS avoided in a community with a childhood population of 75,000 [DMFS avoided: 75,000 x (- 0.54)].

CONCLUSIONS

While the analysis has inherent limitations due to its dependence on a range of assumptions, the results suggest that, from a societal perspective, when compared with the non-intervention group, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration intervention appeared to be a more cost-efficient option than current standard oral health care.

Noncaloric Sweeteners in Children: A Controversial Theme

Noncaloric sweeteners (NCS) are food additives used to provide sweetness without adding calories. Their consumption has become more widespread around the world in all age groups, including children. The aim of this study is to show the state of the art about the intake of noncaloric sweeteners in children, as well as their benefits and consumption risk. Scientific searchers were used (PUBMED, Scopus, and Scielo) to analyze articles that included keywords (noncaloric sweeteners/saccharin/cyclamate/acesulfame potassium/aspartame/sucralose/stevia/children) in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Authors conclude that it is imperative that health professionals judiciously and individually evaluate the overall benefits and risks of NCS use in consumers before recommending their use. Different subgroups of the population incorporate products containing NCS in their diet with different objectives, which should be considered when recommending a diet plan for the consumer. In childhood, in earlier age groups, this type of additives should be used as a dietary alternative when other forms of prevention in obesity are not sufficient.

Feed thickener for infants up to six months of age with gastro-oesophageal reflux

BACKGROUND

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) is common in infants, and feed thickeners are often used to manage it in infants as they are simple to use and perceived to be harmless. However, conflicting evidence exists to support the use of feed thickeners.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the use of feed thickeners in infants up to six months of age with GOR in terms of reduction in a) signs and symptoms of GOR, b) reflux episodes on pH probe monitoring or intraluminal impedance or a combination of both, or c) histological evidence of oesophagitis.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2016, Issue 2), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 22 November 2016), Embase (1980 to 22 November 2016), and CINAHL (1982 to 22 November 2016). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials if they examined the effects of feed thickeners as compared to unthickened feeds (no treatment or placebo) in treating GOR in term infants up to six months of age or six months of corrected gestational age for those born preterm.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently identified eligible studies from the literature search. Two review authors independently performed data extraction and quality assessments of the eligible studies. Differences in opinion were resolved by discussion with a third review author, and consensus was reached among all three review authors. We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight trials recruiting a total of 637 infants met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. The infants included in the review were mainly formula-fed term infants. The trials were of variable methodological quality. Formula-fed term infants with GOR on feed thickeners had nearly two fewer episodes of regurgitation per day (mean difference -1.97 episodes per day, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.32 to -1.61; 6 studies, 442 infants, moderate-certainty evidence) and were 2.5 times more likely to be asymptomatic from regurgitation at the end of the intervention period (risk ratio 2.50, 95% CI 1.38 to 4.51; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome 5, 95% CI 4 to 13; 2 studies, 186 infants, low-certainty evidence) when compared to infants with GOR on unthickened feeds. No studies reported failure to thrive as an outcome. We found low-certainty evidence based on 2 studies recruiting 116 infants that use of feed thickeners improved the oesophageal pH probe parameters of reflux index (i.e. percentage of time pH < 4), number of reflux episodes lasting longer than 5 minutes, and duration of longest reflux episode. No major side effects were reported with the use of feed thickeners. Information was insufficient to conclude which type of feed thickener is superior.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Gastro-oesophageal reflux is a physiological self resolving phenomenon in infants that does not necessarily require any treatment. However, we found moderate-certainty evidence that feed thickeners should be considered if regurgitation symptoms persist in term bottle-fed infants. The reduction of two episodes of regurgitation per day is likely to be of clinical significance to caregivers. Due to the limited information available, we were unable to assess the use of feed thickeners in infants who are breastfeeding or preterm nor could we conclude which type of feed thickener is superior.

Chlorogenic Acid: Recent Advances on Its Dual Role as a Food Additive and a Nutraceutical against Metabolic Syndrome

Chlorogenic acid (5-O-caffeoylquinic acid) is a phenolic compound from the hydroxycinnamic acid family. This polyphenol possesses many health-promoting properties, most of them related to the treatment of metabolic syndrome, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive activities. The first part of this review will discuss the role of chlorogenic acid as a nutraceutical for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, including in vivo studies, clinical trials, and mechanisms of action. The second part of the review will be dealing with the role of chlorogenic acid as a food additive. Chlorogenic acid has shown antimicrobial activity against a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, yeasts, molds, viruses, and amoebas. These antimicrobial properties can be useful for the food industry in its constant search for new and natural molecules for the preservation of food products. In addition, chlorogenic acid has antioxidant activity, particularly against lipid oxidation; protective properties against degradation of other bioactive compounds present in food, and prebiotic activity. The combination of these properties makes chlorogenic acid an excellent candidate for the formulation of dietary supplements and functional foods.

Food Additives Permitted for Direct Addition to Food for Human Consumption; Folic Acid. Final rule

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is amending the food additive regulations to provide for the safe use of folic acid in corn masa flour. We are taking this action in response to a food additive petition filed jointly by Gruma Corporation, Spina Bifida Association, March of Dimes Foundation, American Academy of Pediatrics, Royal DSM N.V., and National Council of La Raza.

Use of dicarboxylic acids and polyphenols to attenuate reticular pH drop and acute phase response in dairy heifers fed a high grain diet

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the ability of two feed additives, a fumarate-malate (FM) and a polyphenol-essential oil mixture (PM), in attenuating the drop of ruminal pH and the metabolic and immune response resulting from an excessively high grain diet. Six heifers were used in a 3 × 3 Latin square experiment and fed a low starch (LS) diet for 14 d, followed by a high starch (HS) diet for 8 d (NDF 33.6%, starch 30.0% DM). In the last 5 days of each period, barley meal was added to decrease rumen pH. During HS feeding all animals were randomly assigned to one of the following three dietary treatments: no supplement/control (CT), a daily dose of 60 g/d of FM, or 100 g/d of PM. Reticular pH was continuously recorded using wireless boluses. On d 21 of each period, rumen fluid was collected by rumenocentesis (1400 h), together with blood (0800 h) and fecal samples (0800, 1400, and 2100 h).

RESULTS

The correlation coefficient of pH values obtained using the boluses and rumenocentesis was 0.83. Compared with CT and PM, the FM treatment led to a lower DMI. Nadir pH was lowest during CT (5.40, 5.69, and 5.62 for CT, FM and PM, respectively), confirming the effectiveness of both supplements in reducing the pH drop caused by high grain feeding. This result was confirmed by the highest average time spent daily below 5.6 pH (199, 16 and 18 min/d) and by the highest acetate to propionate ratio of the CT fed heifers. The PM decreased the concentrations of neutrophils (2.9, 3.2, and 2.8 10(9)/L) and acute phase proteins: SAA (37.1, 28.6 and 20.1 μg/mL), LBP (4.1, 3.8, and 2.9 μg/mL), and Hp (675, 695 and 601 μg/mL). Free lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were detected in blood and feces, but their concentrations were not affected by treatments, as the remaining blood variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Data suggest that both additives could be useful in attenuating the effects of excessive grain feeding on rumen pH, but the PM supplement was more effective than FM in reducing the inflammatory response compared to CT.

Dose imprecision and resistance: free-choice medicated feeds in industrial food animal production in the United States

BACKGROUND

Industrial food animal production employs many of the same antibiotics or classes of antibiotics that are used in human medicine. These drugs can be administered to food animals in the form of free-choice medicated feeds (FCMF), where animals choose how much feed to consume. Routine administration of these drugs to livestock selects for microorganisms that are resistant to medications critical to the treatment of clinical infections in humans.

OBJECTIVES

In this commentary, we discuss the history of medicated feeds, the nature of FCMF use with regard to dose delivery, and U.S. policies that address antimicrobial drug use in food animals.

DISCUSSION

FCMF makes delivering a predictable, accurate, and intended dose difficult. Overdosing can lead to animal toxicity; underdosing or inconsistent dosing can result in a failure to resolve animal diseases and in the development of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms.

CONCLUSIONS

The delivery of antibiotics to food animals for reasons other than the treatment of clinically diagnosed disease, especially via free-choice feeding methods, should be reconsidered.

Immer wieder trifft es die Kleinen: Pflanzliche Therapie kindlicher Durchfallerkrankungen

Acute diarrhea is amongst the most common childhood illnesses. Of paramount importance is an oral rehydration with glucose-electrolyte solutions. A number of herbal therapies are available to shorten the duration of the diarrhea and to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms. Although herbal preparations are generally well tolerated, only a few have been tested on children and adjusted to their needs. Various therapies for diarrhea in childhood are highlighted with regard to the clinical trials with children, and their user-friendliness.

A clinical study in situ to assess the effect of a food approved polymer on the erosion potential of drinks

OBJECTIVES

The consumption of acidic soft drinks continues to rise as do concerns regarding effects of frequent intake. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of acidic soft drinks containing food approved polymers, on dental enamel.

METHODS

The study design was a single blind, randomised, five-treatment crossover clinical trial involving 15 healthy dentate subjects. Subjects wore an upper removable acrylic appliance retaining two enamel specimens and consumed 250ml of beverage four times/day for 10 days. The following beverages were tested: (1) unmodified acidic soft drink, (2) experimental acidic soft drink with 0.02% polyphosphate, (3) experimental acidic soft drink with 0.02% polyphosphate and 0.01% calcium, (4) experimental acidic soft drink with 0.02% polyphosphate and 0.03% xanthan gum, and (5) mineral water. Tissue loss was measured at days 5 and 10 of each study leg using a profilometer.

RESULTS

The order of erosion from most to least at day 10 was unmodified acidic soft drink>experimental acidic soft drink with polyphosphate>experimental acidic soft drink with polyphosphate+gum>experimental acidic soft drink with polyphosphate+calcium>mineral water. At day 10 the unmodified acidic soft drink was significantly (p=0.001) more erosive than all other drinks.

CONCLUSIONS

Unmodified acidic soft drink with the addition of polyphosphate alone or combined with calcium or xanthan gum are all effective at reducing erosion of enamel compared with the unmodified soft acidic drink.

Sensory characteristics of beverages prepared with commercial thickeners used for dysphagia diets

OBJECTIVE

To describe and compare sensory characteristics of six beverages prepared with four commercial thickeners used in dysphagia diets.

DESIGN

The study used a completely randomized design within a test of each beverage.

SUBJECTS/SETTING

Five highly trained descriptive sensory analysis panelists conducted the testing in a laboratory environment.

INTERVENTION

Coffee, milk, apple juice, orange juice, Ensure (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL), and water were thickened using two starch-based and two gum-based commercial thickeners according to manufacturers' instructions to achieve nectar-like and honey-like consistencies.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Sensory attributes of the original beverages and the thickened samples were defined and scored.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Sensory scores were analyzed by analysis of variance using general linear models and Fisher's least significant difference test to determine specific differences.

RESULTS

All thickeners suppressed the main flavors of the base beverages and imparted slight off-flavors (bitter, sour, metallic, or astringent) in some beverages. Starch-based thickeners imparted a starchy flavor and grainy texture, whereas gum-based thickeners gave added slickness to the beverages. Although thickeners mixed well with some beverages, they were difficult to disperse in others, making some thickened beverages lumpy.

CONCLUSIONS

All thickeners added either a starchy, grainy, or slick flavor or texture and tended to suppress the base flavor of beverages, especially at honey-like consistencies. Thus, individual decisions about which characteristics are more negative (eg, slick vs grainy texture) for specific patients must be made. Additional development of thickening agents seems necessary for improved sensory properties. Information from this article should help professionals and their patients with dysphagia better understand the sensory issues associated with the use of commercial thickening agents in various beverages.

Bevölkerungsbezogene Etablierung präventiv wirksamer Nahrungs- und Lebensmittelzusätze: Barrieren und Widerstände

The population-wide and individual preventive potentials of nutritional and food additives such as vitamins and trace elements are generally accepted in the international literature. Iodisation and fluoridation were and are a main focus of activity. The enrichment of food with folic acid is also partly population-related. Until now, however, the theoretical possibilities of nutritional supplementations have not been fully exploited. Various barriers and resistances arise in programme development and implementation. Interviews with key stakeholders and community groups can clarify decade-long discussions in the literature and the media. The study on hand is based on a structural analysis. It shows the various arguments as well as beneficial and impeding factors for a population-wide prevention programme, for specific target groups and individuals. The findings of this research could also be applied to other Public Health challenges.

Succinate-based preparation alleviates manifestations of the climacteric syndrome in women

Clinical placebo-controlled study of Enerlit-Clima (bioactive succinate-based food additive) a showed positive effect of the preparation on general clinical and psychoemotional manifestations of the climacteric syndrome. A trend to an increase in estradiol level in early pathological climacteric and normalization of the endometrial status were observed.

An investigation of some food-approved polymers as agents to inhibit hydroxyapatite dissolution

Dental erosion involves dissolution of the hydroxyapatite fraction of enamel and dentine, so agents that reduce the dissolution rate of hydroxyapatite could find application in food products aimed at reducing erosion. This study was performed to test some common food ingredients and additives for their effect on the dissolution rate of hydroxyapatite in a citric acid solution representative of soft drinks. Pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate and a linear chain polyphosphate (average 25 phosphate units) significantly reduced the hydroxyapatite dissolution rate by 35, 46 and 64%, respectively. Xanthan gum and carboxymethylcellulose significantly reduced the hydroxyapatite dissolution rate by 29 and 16%, respectively. The protective effect may be ascribed to the binding of condensed phosphate or to the formation of an adsorbed layer of gum at the hydroxyapatite surface. Several other common food additives had no statistically significant effect on the hydroxyapatite dissolution rate. Polyphosphate exhibited a considerable persistence of action, causing a reduction in the dissolution rate for 3 h after treatment. Tripolyphosphate was slightly persistent, and pyrophosphate and xanthan gum did not exhibit a substantial persistence of action. A solution containing polyphosphate and xanthan gum reduced the hydroxyapatite dissolution rate by 70% and exhibited a similar persistence of action to the solution containing only polyphosphate. These compounds are suggested to have potential as erosion-reducing agents in soft drinks.

Taste Preference and Rating of Commercial and Natural Thickeners

Dysphagia can negatively affect quality of life, nutritional status, and pulmonary status of individuals. The most common intervention for dysphagia is the use of thickening agents for liquids. This group study (n = 43) investigated the taste preference, taste ratings, and ranking for nectar-thick hot and cold beverages using three types of thickeners: SimplyThick, Thick-It, and noncommercially prepared natural thickeners. Results demonstrated a significant difference between the taste ratings of two commercial thickeners and between one commercial and the natural thickener for the ranking of taste with hot beverages. Every participant rated at least one of the thickener beverages as having an acceptable taste for the hot chocolate and fruit juice beverages. Exploring individual preferences is critical to selecting a beverage that increases compliance to clinical recommendations.

[Mechanisms of action of LB-plaferon and fenovin in the cases of Rausche virus leukemia]

The aim of our investigation was to examine the mechanisms of protective features of plaferon LB and fenovit in mice infected with Rausche virus. It was found that in erythroblasts from peripheral blood and spleen, which appeared 12-14 days after infection, the highest percent of determined virus antigens was approximately 47% (range 35,5 to 58,4) which was followed by decrease of the concentration of virus antigens (between 5-12%) in following days and increase of uninfected cells as a result of division of non-contaminated erythroblasts. Mechanism of action of plaferon LB and fenovit was manifested in the reconstitution of mechanisms of apoptosis among erythroblasts, which did not contain synthesized Rausche virus. Impairment of functional activity and antivirus resistance of macrophagal phagocytes are playing an important role not only in the pathogenesis of murine viral leukemia caused by Rausche virus, but also during human leukemia. Correction of functional status of above -- mentioned diseases using plaferon LB and fenovit is presenting as a new and prospective way.

[Effectiveness of using the biologically active additive to food from Laminaria in adolescents during complex treatment of the pulmonary tuberculosis]

Main component of biologically active additive to food on the basis of sea alga Laminaria of which are copper derivatives of a chlorophyll. Application of this biologically active to food in complex with tuberculosis chemotherapy of 48 adolescents (14-17 years old) at a sanatorium stage of treatment was investigated. The comparison group were 30 patients, receiving chemotherapy without utilize of biologically active to food. It is established, that mentioned biologically active additive to food promotes favorable radiological dynamic of process, improvement of functional activity T-lymphocites and the contents of substances of low and average molecular weight and malonic dialdehyde in plasma.

Reducing the 137Cs-load in the organism of "Chernobyl" children with apple-pectin

As a complement of standard radioprotective measures, apple-pectin preparations are given, especially in the Ukraine, to reduce the 137Cs uptake in the organism of children. The question has been raised: is oral pectin also useful when children receive radiologically clean food, or does this polysaccharide only act in binding 137Cs in the gut, blocking its intestinal absorption? In this case, pectin would be useless if radiologically clean food could be given. The study was a randomised, double blind placebo-controlled trial comparing the efficacy of a dry and milled apple-extract containing 15-16% pectin with a similar placebo-powder, in 64 children originating from the same group of contaminated villages of the Gomel oblast. The average 137Cs load was of about 30 Bq/kg bodyweight (BW). The trial was conducted during the simultaneous one-month stay in the sanatorium Silver Spring. In this clean radiological environment only radiologically "clean" food is given to the children. The average reduction of the 137Cs levels in children receiving oral pectin powder was 62.6%, the reduction with "clean" food and placebo was 13.9%, the difference being statistically significant (p <0.01). The reduction of the 137Cs load is medically relevant, as no child in the placebo group reached values below 20 Bq/kg BW (which is considered by Bandazhevsky as potentially associated with specific pathological tissue damages), with an average value of 25.8 +/- 0.8 Bq/kg. The highest value in the apple-pectin group was 15.4 Bq/kg, the average value being 11.3 +/- 0.6 Bq/kg BW.

[The use of nutritional antioxidants for the correction of metabolic disorders of cardiovascular patients]

The effectiveness of complex dietary therapy, comprising the use of nutritional antioxidants, for patients with degree I-II essential hypertension and CHD has been evaluated. It is found that the including of soy isoflavones and selenium into the nutrition had a positive effect on the clinical presentation of disease, lipid metabolism, organism antioxidant status, indices of blood coagulation and anticoagulation systems.

[Correction of selenium deficiency in patients with pneumonia]

The estimation of selenium (Se) safety in patients with pneumonia is important for evaluation of antioxidant defense system capacity and the immune status of the patients. The research has been carried out on the serum Se levels in patients with pneumonia at standard treatment and at treatment with the usage of selenium enriched food supplement (Se-spirulina). The results of research have shown that application of additional selenium in amount providing physiological requirement leads to full varnishing its deficiency cases and to restoration in the majority of patients the suboptimum Se level.

Improvement of HDL- and LDL-Cholesterol Levels in Diabetic Subjects by Feeding Bread Containing Chitosan

In this work we evaluated the efficacy and safety of a bread formulation containing chitosan in dyslipidemic type 2 diabetic subjects. For this purpose a total of 18 patients were allowed to incorporate to their habitual diets 120 g/day of bread containing 2% (wt/wt) chitosan (chitosan group, n= 9) or standard bread (control group, n= 9). Before the study and after 12 weeks on the modified diet, the following parameters were evaluated: body weight, plasma cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, triglyceride, and hemoglobin A(1c) (HbA(1c)). Compared with the control group, the patients receiving chitosan-containing bread decreased their mean levels of LDL-cholesterol and significantly increased their mean levels of HDL-cholesterol at the end of the study. There were no significant differences in the body weight, serum triglyceride, and HbA(1c). These results suggest that chitosan incorporated into bread formulations could improve the lipoprotein balance similar to typical biliary salts trappers, increasing the HDL- and lowering the LDL-cholesterol, without changing the triglyceride levels. These results warrant further studies over a longer period of time to evaluate if a persistent improvement in levels of lipoproteins can be attained with this strategy.

Ionophores: their use as ruminant growth promotants and impact on food safety

Ionophores (such as monensin, lasalocid, laidlomycin, salinomycin and narasin) are antimicrobial compounds that are commonly fed to ruminant animals to improve feed efficiency. These antimicrobials specifically target the ruminal bacterial population and alter the microbial ecology of the intestinal microbial consortium, resulting in increased carbon and nitrogen retention by the animal, increasing production efficiency. Ionophores transport ions across cell membranes of susceptible bacteria, dissipating ion gradients and uncoupling energy expenditures from growth, killing these bacteria. Not all bacteria are susceptible to ionophores, and several species have been shown to develop several mechanisms of ionophore resistance. The prophylactic use of antimicrobials as growth promotants in food animals has fallen under greater scrutiny due to fears of the spread of antibiotic resistance. Because of the complexity and high degree of specificity of ionophore resistance, it appears that ionophores do not contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance to important human drugs. Therefore it appears that ionophores will continue to play a significant role in improving the efficiency of animal production in the future.

Effects of carrageenans on the binding, phagocytotic, and killing abilities of macrophages to salmonella

The effects of carrageenans (CGNs) on the host defense mechanisms of macrophages against Salmonella infection were examined in vitro by using macrophage-like J774.1 cells. Iota-CGN reduced the Salmonella-binding and phagocytotic activities of J774.1 cells, but it increased the killing activity of the cells. Kappa-CGN increased the binding activity, but reduced the killing ability. CGNs would affect the host defense mechanisms by modulating the macrophage functions.

Improved net protein balance, lean mass, and gene expression changes with oxandrolone treatment in the severely burned

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of the anabolic agent oxandrolone on muscle protein and gene expression in severely burned children.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The authors previously showed that oxandrolone increased net muscle protein synthesis in emaciated burned patients receiving delayed treatment for severe burns. They hypothesized that similar effects would be seen in those treated early after burn.

METHODS

Thirty-two severely burned children were enrolled in a prospective randomized trial. Subjects underwent studies to assess leg protein net balance 5 days after the first excision and grafting procedure. Immediately after these studies, treatment with placebo (n = 18) or 0.1 mg/kg oxandrolone (n = 14) twice a day was started. One week after this, another net balance study was performed in each subject. Body weights and total body potassium counting were used to determine body compositional changes. Muscle biopsies were taken 1 week after treatment in oxandrolone subjects to examine gene expression changes with gene array (12,600 genes).

RESULTS

Protein net balance did not change in the placebo group, while oxandrolone-treated subjects had a significant improvement. Body weights and fat free mass significantly decreased in the placebo group, while no changes were found in the oxandrolone-treated subjects. Expression changes were seen in 14 genes in the oxandrolone group compared to placebo. Some of these included myosin light chain (+2.7-fold change), tubulin (+2.3), calmodulin (-2.3), and protein phosphatase I inhibitor (-2.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Oxandrolone improves protein net balance and lean mass in the severely burned. These changes are associated with increased gene expression for functional muscle proteins.

Effect of natural biocorrector Namivit on free-radical processes in abdominal delivery

Free-radical oxidation parameters were measured in the blood of women during preparation to cesarean section and postoperative period and in the umbilical blood and placenta. A course of biocorrector Namivit before the intervention prevented intensification of free-radical processes in the mother-placenta-fetus system.

[Nutritional supplements and cancer]

According to recent data more than half of cancer patients are looking for alternative and complementary therapies to add to their regimen of care. Nutritional supplements are one of the common complementary methods that cancer patients are using. This mode of therapy is being used independently by the patients or being prescribed by physicians or alternative practitioners. The use of these supplements raises questions concerning the efficacy and safety of those products and the proper way to utilize them. In this article questions are raised regarding the integration of nutritional supplements in the care of cancer patients, as well as reviewing some evidence regarding possible therapeutic options of phytoestrogens and green tea as common examples of nutritional supplements that have undergone some scientific research relating to cancer prevention and treatment.

[Effects of biologically active pectin-containing dietary supplement on gastroduodenal motility in patients with a functional dyspepsia]

For 21 patients with a functional dyspepsia the influencing biologically active additives to nutrition "Pekcecom" on dynamics of clinical symptoms and parameters gastroduodenal motility under the data gastroduodenoscintigraphy was studied. The usage of biologically active additives during 4 weeks was accompanied by deboosting of accelerated gastric emptying for want of statistically significant influencing on a normal and delayed gastric emptying and parameters of duodenal transit.

Nutritional advantages of probiotics and prebiotics

The potential 'nutritional advantages' of probiotics and prebiotics consist of preventive, and sometimes curative, effects against certain diseases. The evidence supporting such advantages, which requires randomised controlled trials and consistency of results from study to study, is rapidly increasing. This article summarizes the effects against diseases of intestinal origin. There is a high level of evidence for positive effects of some prebiotics to alleviate constipation and treat hepatic encephalopathy. Interesting aspects, but with a lower level of evidence at the present time, include prevention of colon cancer, intestinal infection, and recurrence of inflammatory bowel disease. There is a high level of evidence for positive effects of some probiotics in the alleviation of lactose intolerance, antibiotic-associated intestinal disorders and gastroenteritis. Evidence is rapidly growing regarding the prevention of recurrence of inflammatory bowel diseases. Positive trials have suggested preventive effects against intestinal colonization with specific gut pathogens including Clostridium difficile and Helicobacter pylori.

[Correction of schoolchildren's diets with biologically active additives]

The actual nutrition of schoolchildren in the Nizni-Novgorod district is imbalanced due to the deficiency of protein and vitamins and to the high contents of fats and carbohydrates. The authors provide evidence for a combined preparation to correct the children's diets, which incorporates animal protein, biologically active plant additives, and egg-shell calcium. The use of the preparation in combination with liquid bifidumbacterin contributes to increases in morphofunctional parameters in adolescents.

[The role of bioactive food additives in therapeutic and prophylactic nutrition]

The efficiency of therapeutic and prophylactic nutrition (TPN) is determined by its scientific basis. The diets should be created with consideration for pathogenetic mechanisms of the effects of occupational hazards, energy expenditures, ecology of the habitat, national features of nutrition, and unfavorable factors associated with the risk of the underlying and concomitant diseases. Use of bioactive food additives (BFA) essentially facilitated the development and utilization of TPN under conditions of hazardous production and unfavorable ecology. The technology of making a perspective BFA Vitagmal has been developed. Biomedical evaluation of this BFA was carried out: protein, carbohydrate, and mineral metabolism, morphology of organs and tissues in experimental animals fed Vitagmal, and its effects on clinical and physiological status of man were studied. The effect of BFA on the metabolism was studied in patients with metabolic alimentary obesity. The results demonstrated a pronounced health-fortifying antioxidant effect of Vitagmal, which had a favorable impact on cardiovascular and central nervous functions, stimulated the metabolic processes, had a slight "protective effect" in ethanol intoxication, and no side effects. This recommends Vitagmal for wide use in therapeutic and prophylactic medicine.

Feed thickener for newborn infants with gastro-oesophageal reflux

BACKGROUND

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) is common in newborn infants. A common first line management is the use of feed thickeners.

OBJECTIVES

In newborn infants with GOR, to evaluate the use of feed thickeners in reducing signs and symptoms of GOR, acid episodes on pH monitoring and histological evidence of oesophagitis.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched MEDLINE from 1966 to December 2001, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002. CINAHL from 1982 to December 2001, and conference and symposia proceedings published in Pediatric Research 1990 to 1994. We also searched conference proceedings for the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition (ESPGAN) and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition (NASPGAN) from 1994 to December 2001. We did not restrict the searches to the English language.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials that examine the effects of thickening formulas on treating gastro-oesophageal reflux in neonates. The eligible studies were to compare thickened feeds to no intervention (unthickened feeds).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent reviewers identified potential studies from the literature search. Quality was independently assessed by two independent reviewers.

MAIN RESULTS

No studies fulfilled the requirements for inclusion in the systematic review.

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

There is no evidence from randomised controlled trials to support or refute the efficacy of feed thickeners in newborn infants with GOR. Given the absence of evidence, we cannot recommend using thickening agents for management of GOR in newborn infants.

[Use of food additives in a multimodal treatment of disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis]

Effects have been studied of multimodality treatment on the function of external breathing in patients with disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis using food additives Trace Minerals. Positive dynamics has been recordable of changes in indices for forced lung vital capacity, minute oxygen consumption, both prior and after loading, and maximum volume speed (MVS75) before loading. The obtained data are indicative of the efficacy of using vitamin-mineral additives Trace Minerals evidenced by improvement in bronchial patency and normalization of ventilation-and-perfusion relations in patients with destructive forms of pulmonary tuberculosis.

The experience of reducing antibiotics used in animal production in the Nordic countries

The Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden) have a long tradition of infectious disease control in animal production. Special attention has also been paid to the use of antibiotics. This has resulted in a relatively low use of antibiotics and also relatively favourable status of antibiotic resistance. The current situation, interventions and achievements are summarised with special reference to Sweden which was probably the first country where stringent control and prudent use of antibiotics was put into practice. The use of antibiotics for growth-promoting purposes is highlighted.

Argument against use of food additives for osteoarthritis of the hip

Food additives and other forms of alternative medicines have been embraced by the general public. Some of these compounds including glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have shown efficacy in relieving pain associated with osteoarthritis. However, evidence is limited concerning the chondroprotective ability of these agents. More controlled studies and basic research is necessary to evaluate these claims especially because these compounds are not under regulatory control.

Effects of pectin on diarrhea in critically ill tube-fed patients receiving antibiotics

BACKGROUND

Anaerobic colonic flora are necessary for the fermentation of fiber into short-chain fatty acids and constitute the bulk of fecal mass. Lack of dietary fiber in most enteral feedings, compounded by antibiotic therapy, suppresses normal colonic metabolism, resulting in diarrhea. Pectin, a water-soluble fiber, stimulates epithelial growth in the colon and thus reduces diarrhea.

METHODS

Forty-four critically ill patients receiving enteral nutrition and antibiotic therapy were randomized to receive fiber-containing or fiber-free tube feedings and pectin or placebo. Data on frequency, consistency, and volume of fecal output; energy (caloric) intake; and administration of specific medications were collected for 9 days. Diarrhea was defined as 2 or more days with scores of 12 or higher on the Hart and Dobb diarrhea scale.

RESULTS

Subjects in the 4 groups did not differ significantly in age, sex, severity of illness, or energy intake. Twelve subjects (27.3%) experienced diarrhea. Significantly fewer subjects in the fiber-free/placebo and fiber/pectin groups experienced diarrhea than did subjects in the fiber/placebo group (P = .02). On the basis of repeated-measures analysis of variance of daily mean scores, the severity of diarrhea did not differ significantly among the study groups over time (P = .16).

CONCLUSIONS

The reduced rate of diarrhea found in this study may be related to the stringent definition of diarrhea used. The therapeutic dose of pectin for reducing diarrhea needs further exploration. The trend was toward less diarrhea in the fiber/pectin group, but the study needs to be replicated with a larger sample.

[Use of biologically active food additive cardiohels in the treatment of patients with ischemic heart disease]

Biologically active food additive (Inrich production) cardiohels was added to the diet of ischemic heart disease patients with hypertension and chronic heart failure stage IIB receiving basic medication with hypotensive, coronarolytic drugs and cardiac glycosides. As shown by control 24-h blood pressure and ECG monitoring, echocardiography, cardiohels has a mild hypotensive effect, improves coronary circulation and microcirculation, myocardial contractility. Mechanism of these positive effects are discussed. Cardiohels is recommended for patients with ischemic heart disease as it allows to reduce the dose of hypotensive and coronarolytic drugs by 35% and cardiac glycosides by 25%, thus lowering the risk of relevand side effects.

Efficacy of florphenicol premix in weanling pigs experimentally infected with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae

The efficacy of a florfenicol premix was studied in weaning pigs experimentally inoculated with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Twenty five clinically healthy pigs were distributed into 3 groups; group A non-medicated, groups B and C orally medicated with 20 and 40 ppm of florfenicol respectively. The pigs were fed during 12 consecutive days and on day 5 all the groups were challenged with A. pleuropneumoniae serotype 1. All the animals in Group A developed clinical signs. Most of the pigs in the medicated groups maintained a good health status. Postmortem examination revealed severe pleuropneumonia in pigs from the control group and pneumonic lesions in 40% of the animals treated with 20 ppm of florfenicol. Development of pleuropneumonia was prevented in all the pigs medicated with 40 ppm of florfenicol. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae was recovered from the lungs of all control animals and from one pig of each of the medicated groups, however, the avidin biotin peroxidase (ABC-P) method detected the presence of the microorganism in all the animals. We demonstrated that medication with feed containing 40 ppm of florfenicol blocked efficiently the signs and lesions caused by A. pleuropneumoniae and increased the daily body weight gain.

[Adaptogen MIGI-K in rehabilitation of Chernobyl liquidators]

Experimental studies of the mussels hydrolysate (MIGI-K) have shown that this preparation can enhance the radioresistance and general resistance of the organism. The mechanisms of its action are related mainly with its influence on the components of the biochemical back-ground of the resistance and with its antioxidative activity. Some properties of this preparation, for example, absence of toxicity and harmful side effects, made it possible as an adaptogene and as a remedy, increasing radionuclides excretion.