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Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024The circulatory system is a closed conduit system throughout the body and consists of two parts as follows: the cardiovascular system and the lymphatic system.... (Review)
Review
The circulatory system is a closed conduit system throughout the body and consists of two parts as follows: the cardiovascular system and the lymphatic system. Hematological malignancies usually grow and multiply in the circulatory system, directly or indirectly affecting its function. These malignancies include multiple myeloma, leukemia, and lymphoma. -linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (-GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) regulates the function and stability of substrate proteins through -GlcNAc modification. Abnormally expressed OGT is strongly associated with tumorigenesis, including hematological malignancies, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. In cells, OGT can assemble with a variety of proteins to form complexes to exercise related biological functions, such as OGT/HCF-1, OGT/TET, NSL, and then regulate glucose metabolism, gene transcription, cell proliferation, and other biological processes, thus affecting the development of hematological malignancies. This review summarizes the complexes involved in the assembly of OGT in cells and the role of related OGT complexes in hematological malignancies. Unraveling the complex network regulated by the OGT complex will facilitate a better understanding of hematologic malignancy development and progression.
PubMed: 38931332
DOI: 10.3390/ph17060664 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often experience reduced muscle strength and diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and engaging in regular...
BACKGROUND
Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often experience reduced muscle strength and diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and engaging in regular exercise may improve them. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of intradialytic exercise using non-immersive virtual reality (VR) on body composition of patients with CKD on hemodialysis (HD).
METHODS
This was a substudy in a clinical trial of intradialytic exercise intervention using a non-immersive VR game in which the patient interacted by moving the lower limbs. Body composition was determined by BCM Fresenius multifrequency stereoscopic bioimpedance. Body mass index (BMI), fat tissue index (FTI), lean tissue index (LTI), extracellular/intracellular water (EIW), and phase angle (PA) were recorded in 52 patients, 24 in the control group (CG) and 28 in the exercise group (EG).
RESULTS
Statistically significant differences were observed between both groups. The LTI increased in the EG while it decreased in the CG. The FTI and the EIW decreased in the EG compared to the increase observed in the CG.
CONCLUSIONS
Intradialytic exercise using non-immersive VR was associated with an increase in LTI and a decrease in FTI of CKD patients on HD.
Topics: Humans; Body Composition; Renal Dialysis; Male; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic; Female; Middle Aged; Virtual Reality; Aged; Exercise Therapy; Body Mass Index; Quality of Life; Exercise; Adult; Electric Impedance
PubMed: 38931320
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121968 -
Nutrients Jun 2024The consumption of almonds has been associated with several health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular and intestinal health. In this comprehensive review,... (Review)
Review
The consumption of almonds has been associated with several health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular and intestinal health. In this comprehensive review, we compile and deliberate studies investigating the effects of almond consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and gut health. Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols, which contribute to their health-promoting properties. Regular intake of almonds has been shown to improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol and enhancing HDL functionality. Additionally, almonds aid in glycemic control, blood pressure reduction, and chronic inflammation amelioration, which are critical for cardiovascular health. The antioxidant properties of almonds, primarily due to their high vitamin E content, help in reducing oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, almonds positively influence body composition by reducing body fat percentage and central adiposity and enhancing satiety, thus aiding in weight management. Herein, we also contemplate the emerging concept of the gut-heart axis, where almond consumption appears to modulate the gut microbiome, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and increasing short-chain fatty acid production, particularly butyrate. These effects collectively contribute to the anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective benefits of almonds. By encompassing these diverse aspects, we eventually provide a systematic and updated perspective on the multifaceted benefits of almond consumption for cardiovascular health and gut microbiome, corroborating their broader consideration in dietary guidelines and public health recommendations for CVD risk reduction.
Topics: Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Prunus dulcis; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diet; Antioxidants; Heart Disease Risk Factors; Nuts
PubMed: 38931317
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121964 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Training interoceptive sensitivity (IS) might be a first step in effectively promoting intuitive eating (IE). A dyadic interoception-based pilot randomized controlled... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Training interoceptive sensitivity (IS) might be a first step in effectively promoting intuitive eating (IE). A dyadic interoception-based pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to increase IE among couples aged 50+. The training consisted of three exercises, a Body Scan (BS), a hunger exercise (HU), and a satiety (SA) exercise. This study explored how spouses accepted the (dyadic vs. single) training. In a mixed-methods convergence design, the findings of a survey ( = 68 couples) and focus groups ( = 4) were synthesized. Moderate general acceptance (e.g., regarding feasibility and low burden) and a hierarchical gradient in favor of the BS (e.g., pleasantness and improved sleep quality) emerged. Barriers concerned a perceived lack of the exercises' usefulness and a limited understanding of the training purpose. A wish for regular feedback and exchange with the study stuff and other participants was expressed. Spousal training involvement was experienced as being rather beneficial. Previously harmonized dietary practices and daily routines appeared as constructive pre-conditions for the joint training. This study highlights the potential and implications of training couples in IS. Future interventions should involve a regular exchange and closer guidance by study staff to promote a better understanding of the processes and goals of IS and IE.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Pilot Projects; Middle Aged; Interoception; Spouses; Aged; Exercise; Feeding Behavior; Focus Groups; Surveys and Questionnaires; Hunger; Eating; Satiation
PubMed: 38931304
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121949 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Consumers often cite cognitive improvements as reasons for making dietary changes or using dietary supplements, a motivation that if leveraged could greatly enhance...
Consumers often cite cognitive improvements as reasons for making dietary changes or using dietary supplements, a motivation that if leveraged could greatly enhance public health. However, rarely is it considered whether standardized cognitive tests that are used in nutrition research are aligned to outcomes of interest to the consumer. This knowledge gap presents a challenge to the scientific substantiation of nutrition-based cognitive health benefits. Here we combined focus group transcript review using reflexive thematic analysis and a multidisciplinary expert panel exercise to evaluate the applicability of cognitive performance tools/tasks for substantiating the specific cognitive benefits articulated by consumers with the objectives to (1) understand how consumers comprehend the potential benefits of nutrition for brain health, and (2) determine the alignment between consumers desired brain benefits and validated tests and tools. We derived a 'Consumer Taxonomy of Cognitive and Affective Health in Nutrition Research' which describes the cognitive and affective structure from the consumers perspective. Experts agreed that validated tests exist for some consumer benefits including focused attention, sustained attention, episodic memory, energy levels, and anxiety. Prospective memory, flow, and presence represented novel benefits that require the development and validation of new tests and tools. Closing the gap between science and consumers and fostering co-creative approaches to nutrition research are critical to the development of products and dietary recommendations that support realizable cognitive benefits that benefit public health.
Topics: Humans; Dietary Supplements; Cognition; Brain; Consumer Behavior; Focus Groups
PubMed: 38931303
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121950 -
Nutrients Jun 2024In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of beetroot-based dietary supplements, driven by their rich nitrate composition. Several types of... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of beetroot-based dietary supplements, driven by their rich nitrate composition. Several types of beetroot-based dietary supplements can be found in markets worldwide; however, ensuring the safety of dietary supplements is a crucial consideration, as there is limited evidence on their safety, especially for older populations. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of a nitrate-rich beetroot extract in older participants taking supplements over 12 weeks. The participants were randomly assigned to receive 20 g daily of beetroot extract or a matching placebo. The safety and tolerability of the supplementation were evaluated as the occurrence of adverse events and anthropometric, biochemical, and hemodynamic parameters were measured. No serious adverse events were reported in any group. Anthropometric, biochemical, and hemodynamic parameter changes between the baseline and the end of the study were not statistically significant in either group. However, interestingly, the group receiving beetroot extract supplementation exhibited a notable increase in plasma nitrate levels ( = 0.076, = 0.50) and showed a decrease in insulin levels ( = 0.026, = 0.59). In conclusion, we found that 20 g of beetroot extract supplementation for 12 weeks was safe and well tolerated in older participants.
Topics: Humans; Dietary Supplements; Beta vulgaris; Plant Extracts; Aged; Male; Female; Nitrates; Plant Roots; Double-Blind Method; Insulin; Middle Aged
PubMed: 38931296
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121942 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Endothelial dysfunction decreases exercise limb blood flow (BF) and muscle oxygenation. Acute L-Citrulline supplementation (CIT) improves muscle tissue oxygen saturation... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Endothelial dysfunction decreases exercise limb blood flow (BF) and muscle oxygenation. Acute L-Citrulline supplementation (CIT) improves muscle tissue oxygen saturation index (TSI) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb) during exercise. Although CIT improves endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation [FMD]) in hypertensive women, the impact of CIT on exercise BF and muscle oxygenation (TSI) and extraction (HHb) are unknown. We examined the effects of CIT (10 g/day) and a placebo for 4 weeks on blood pressure (BP), arterial vasodilation (FMD, BF, and vascular conductance [VC]), and forearm muscle oxygenation (TSI and HHb) at rest and during exercise in 22 hypertensive postmenopausal women. Compared to the placebo, CIT significantly ( < 0.05) increased FMD (Δ-0.7 ± 0.6% vs. Δ1.6 ± 0.7%) and reduced aortic systolic BP (Δ3 ± 5 vs. Δ-4 ± 6 mmHg) at rest and improved exercise BF (Δ17 ± 12 vs. Δ48 ± 16 mL/min), VC (Δ-21 ± 9 vs. Δ41 ± 14 mL/mmHg/min), TSI (Δ-0.84 ± 0.58% vs. Δ1.61 ± 0.46%), and HHb (Δ1.03 ± 0.69 vs. Δ-2.76 ± 0.77 μM). Exercise BF and VC were positively correlated with improved FMD and TSI during exercise (all < 0.05). CIT improved exercise artery vasodilation and muscle oxygenation via increased endothelial function in hypertensive postmenopausal women.
Topics: Humans; Female; Postmenopause; Citrulline; Middle Aged; Hypertension; Muscle, Skeletal; Hand Strength; Dietary Supplements; Vasodilation; Regional Blood Flow; Aged; Exercise; Blood Pressure; Oxygen; Oxygen Consumption; Double-Blind Method; Endothelium, Vascular
PubMed: 38931289
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121935 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Probiotics are posited to enhance exercise performance by influencing muscle protein synthesis, augmenting glycogen storage, and reducing inflammation. This double-blind... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Probiotics are posited to enhance exercise performance by influencing muscle protein synthesis, augmenting glycogen storage, and reducing inflammation. This double-blind study randomized 88 participants to receive a six-week intervention with either a placebo, subsp. LY-66, PL-02, or a combination of both strains, combined with a structured exercise training program. We assessed changes in maximal oxygen consumption (VO), exercise performance, and gut microbiota composition before and after the intervention. Further analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of probiotics on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), muscle integrity, and inflammatory markers in the blood, 24 and 48 h post-intervention. The results demonstrated that all probiotic groups exhibited significant enhancements in exercise performance and attenuation of muscle strength decline post-exercise exhaustion ( < 0.05). Notably, PL-02 intake significantly increased muscle mass, whereas LY-66 and the combination therapy significantly reduced body fat percentage ( < 0.05). Analysis of intestinal microbiota revealed an increase in beneficial bacteria, especially a significant rise in following supplementation with PL-02 and LY-66 ( < 0.05). Overall, the combination of exercise training and supplementation with PL-02, LY-66, and their combination improved muscle strength, explosiveness, and endurance performance, and had beneficial effects on body composition and gastrointestinal health, as evidenced by data obtained from non-athlete participants.
Topics: Humans; Probiotics; Double-Blind Method; Lactobacillus plantarum; Male; Lactococcus lactis; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Muscle Strength; Physical Endurance; Female; Adult; Young Adult; Oxygen Consumption; Muscle, Skeletal; Exercise
PubMed: 38931275
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121921 -
Nutrients Jun 2024The aim of this study was to examine men's body image confidence, social reflectivity, body image perceptions and external information sources influence regarding body...
The aim of this study was to examine men's body image confidence, social reflectivity, body image perceptions and external information sources influence regarding body assessments. Data were collected via a cross-sectional survey and found that men have a low motivation toward physical health behaviour changes such as food, alcohol and exercise evaluation, and have generally positive views of their bodies overall. Relationship status, rather than age, defined behavioural and attitudinal differences within the men studied here. Men in this study were largely uninfluenced by celebrities or fashion in developing their own body image perceptions; single males were more likely to turn to friends, the female population generally and societal norms when evaluating themselves. Males in relationships however, weighted their partner's opinion as the greatest influence, followed by their involvement in sport. This study offers an insight into the role of body confidence in male perspectives of the self, which is important for its intrinsic connection to motivations for health behaviours such as body weight management. This has implications for increasing the effectiveness of health-related product and service messaging, and public health messages regarding body weight management for men.
Topics: Humans; Male; Motivation; Self Concept; Health Behavior; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Body Image; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Exercise; Female; Adolescent; Surveys and Questionnaires; Aged
PubMed: 38931270
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121916 -
Nutrients Jun 2024Testing and evaluating athletes is necessary and should include performance, body composition, and nutrition. The purpose of this study was to report assessments of...
BACKGROUND
Testing and evaluating athletes is necessary and should include performance, body composition, and nutrition. The purpose of this study was to report assessments of dietary intake, V˙O, and body composition in D1 collegiate athletes and examine relationships between these assessments.
METHODS
Dietary intake was assessed with 3-day recalls and compared to recommendations, and body composition was assessed via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) ( = 48). V˙O was evaluated using a graded exercise test (GXT) with a verification bout ( = 35). Reliability between "true" V˙O and verification was determined. Correlations and regressions were performed.
RESULTS
Energy, carbohydrate, and micronutrient intake was lower than recommendations. Mean V˙O was 47.3 and 47.4 mL·kg·min for GXT and verification, respectively. While correlations were apparent among dietary intake, V˙O, and body composition, percent fat-free mass (%FFM) predicted 36% of V˙O.
CONCLUSIONS
Collegiate athletes are not meeting energy and carbohydrate recommendations and exceed fat recommendations. Vitamin D and magnesium were low in all sports, and iron and calcium were low in females. V˙O ranged from 35.6 to 63.0 mL·kg·min, with females below average and males meeting typical values for their designated sport. Assessing D1 athletes can provide guidance for sports dietitians, coaches, and strength and conditioning specialists to track and monitor nutrition in athletes.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Body Composition; Athletes; Young Adult; Nutritional Status; Athletic Performance; Energy Intake; Oxygen Consumption; Universities; Adolescent; Electric Impedance; Dietary Carbohydrates; Nutrition Assessment; Exercise Test; Diet; Sports Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
PubMed: 38931251
DOI: 10.3390/nu16121896