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1.
Exp Gerontol ; 78: 23-31, 2016 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26944368

ABSTRACT

While myostatin gene deletion is a promising therapy to fight muscle loss during aging, this approach induces also skeletal muscle metabolic changes such as mitochondrial deficits, redox alteration and increased fatigability. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of aging on these features in aged wild-type (WT) and mstn knockout (KO) mice. Moreover, to determine whether an enriched-antioxidant diet may be useful to prevent age-related disorders, we orally administered to the two genotypes a melon concentrate rich in superoxide dismutase for 12 weeks. We reported that mitochondrial functional abnormalities persisted (decreased state 3 and 4 of respiration; p<0.05) in skeletal muscle from aged KO mice; however, differences with WT mice were attenuated at old age in line with reduced difference on running endurance between the two genotypes. Interestingly, we showed an increase in glutathione levels, associated with lower lipid peroxidation levels in KO muscle. Enriched antioxidant diet reduced the aging-related negative effects on maximal aerobic velocity and running limit time (p<0.05) in both groups, with systemic adaptations on body weight. The redox status and the hypertrophic phenotype appeared to be beneficial to KO mice, mitigating the effect of aging on the skeletal muscle metabolic remodeling.


Subject(s)
Aging/physiology , Diet , Gene Deletion , Muscle, Skeletal/physiology , Myostatin/genetics , Aging/drug effects , Animals , Antioxidants/administration & dosage , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Lipid Peroxidation , Male , Mice , Mice, Knockout , Mitochondria/physiology , Muscle, Skeletal/drug effects , Oxidation-Reduction , Oxidative Stress , Physical Conditioning, Animal , Physical Endurance , Running , Superoxide Dismutase/administration & dosage , Superoxide Dismutase/pharmacology
2.
Clin Radiol ; 68(1): 47-54, 2013 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22832144

ABSTRACT

AIM: To evaluate image quality and diagnostic accuracy of two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and ten consecutive patients with suspicion of endometriosis were recruited at two institutions over a 5-month period. Twenty-three women underwent surgery, 18 had DIE at histology. Two readers independently evaluated 3D and 2D MRI for image quality and diagnosis of DIE. Descriptive analysis, chi-square test for categorical or nominal variables, McNemar test for comparison between 3D and 2D T2-weighted MRI, and weighted "statistics" for intra- and interobserver agreement were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Both readers found that 3D yielded significantly lower image quality than 2D MRI (p < 0.0001). Acquisition time for 3D was significantly shorter than 2D MRI (p < 0.01). 3D offered similar accuracy to diagnose DIE compared to 2D MRI. For all locations of endometriosis, a high or variable intra-observer agreement was observed for reader 1 and 2, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a lower overall image quality, 3D provides significant time saving and similar accuracy than multiplanar 2D MRI in the diagnosis of specific DIE locations.


Subject(s)
Endometriosis/diagnosis , Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods , Pelvis , Adult , Colonic Diseases/diagnosis , Douglas' Pouch , Female , Humans , Imaging, Three-Dimensional/methods , Magnetic Resonance Imaging/standards , Middle Aged , Observer Variation , Peritoneal Diseases/diagnosis , Sensitivity and Specificity , Urinary Bladder Diseases/diagnosis , Uterine Diseases/diagnosis , Vaginal Diseases/diagnosis , Young Adult
3.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 64(10): 1172-8, 2010 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-20700135

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Data from human studies that have investigated the association between vitamin D status and cognitive function in elderly adults are conflicting. The objective of this study was to assess vitamin D status (reflected by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)) in older European subjects (n=387; aged 55-87 years) and examine its association with measures of cognitive function. SUBJECTS/METHODS: Serum 25(OH)D was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, whereas measures of cognitive function were assessed using a comprehensive Cambridge Neuropsychological Testing Automated Battery (CANTAB). RESULTS: In all, 12, 36 and 64% of subjects had serum 25(OH)D concentrations <30, <50 and <80 nmol/l, respectively, throughout the year. Serum 25(OH)D was significantly and inversely correlated with four assessments within the spatial working memory (SWM) test parameter (SWM between errors (r=-0.166; P=0.003); SWM between errors 8 boxes (r=-0.134; P=0.038); SWM strategy (r=-0.246; P<0.0001); and SWM total errors (r=-0.174; P<0.003)). When subjects were stratified on the basis of tertiles (T) of serum 25(OH)D (<47.6 (T(1)); 47.6-85.8 (T(2)); and >85.8 (T(3)) nmol/l), fewer errors in SWM test scores occurred in subjects in the third T when compared with the first T (P<0.05-0.084). Stratification by sex showed that these differences between tertiles strengthened (P<0.001-0.043) in the females, but the differences were not significant (P>0.6) in males. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D insufficiency, but not deficiency, is widespread in the older population of several European countries. Low vitamin D status was associated with a reduced capacity for SWM, particularly in women.


Subject(s)
25-Hydroxyvitamin D 2/blood , Calcifediol/blood , Cognition Disorders/epidemiology , Nutritional Status , Vitamin D Deficiency/complications , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Aging , Cognition , Cognition Disorders/blood , Cognition Disorders/complications , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Memory Disorders/blood , Memory Disorders/complications , Memory Disorders/epidemiology , Memory, Short-Term , Middle Aged , Neuropsychological Tests , Risk Factors , Severity of Illness Index , Sex Factors , Vitamin D Deficiency/blood , Vitamin D Deficiency/epidemiology
4.
Free Radic Biol Med ; 46(5): 624-32, 2009 Mar 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19135522

ABSTRACT

Mitochondrial and NADPH oxidase systems and oxidative stress were investigated in 12 week high-fat high-sucrose (HFHS) diet-fed rats. A protective effect of wine polyphenol (PP) extract was also examined. In liver, maximal activities of CII and CII+III mitochondrial complexes were decreased but NADPH oxidase expression (p22(phox) and p47(phox)) and NADPH oxidase-dependent superoxide anion production were not modified, whereas oxidative stress (lipid and protein oxidation products and antioxidant systems) was increased with HFHS diet. In muscle, anion superoxide production was slightly increased while mitochondrial complex activities and lipid and protein oxidation products were not modified with HFHS diet. In heart, NADPH oxidase expression and superoxide anion production were increased, and maximal activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes or oxidative stress parameters were not modified. Wine polyphenol extract had an inhibiting effect on liver oxidative stress and on heart NADPH oxidase expression and superoxide anion production, and on induction of hepatic steatosis with HFHS diet. Induction of mitochondrial dysfunction could be a primary event in the development of oxidative stress in liver, while in skeletal muscle and in heart the NADPH oxidase system seems to be mainly involved in oxidative stress. Wine polyphenol extract was shown to partially prevent oxidative stress in liver and heart tissues and to nearly completely prevent steatosis development in liver.


Subject(s)
Flavonoids/pharmacology , Mitochondria/physiology , NADPH Oxidases/metabolism , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Phenols/pharmacology , Superoxides/analysis , Animals , Diet , Dietary Fats/adverse effects , Heart/physiology , Liver/drug effects , Liver/physiology , Liver/ultrastructure , Male , Mitochondria/drug effects , Muscles/physiology , Muscles/ultrastructure , Myocardium/enzymology , Myocardium/ultrastructure , Organ Specificity , Polyphenols , Rats , Rats, Wistar , Sucrose/adverse effects , Wine/analysis
5.
Ann Hum Genet ; 73(2): 196-214, 2009 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19053990

ABSTRACT

The mitochondrial DNA variation of 295 Berber-speakers from Morocco (Asni, Bouhria and Figuig) and the Egyptian oasis of Siwa was evaluated by sequencing a portion of the control region (including HVS-I and part of HVS-II) and surveying haplogroup-specific coding region markers. Our findings show that the Berber mitochondrial pool is characterized by an overall high frequency of Western Eurasian haplogroups, a somehow lower frequency of sub-Saharan L lineages, and a significant (but differential) presence of North African haplogroups U6 and M1, thus occupying an intermediate position between European and sub-Saharan populations in PCA analysis. A clear and significant genetic differentiation between the Berbers from Maghreb and Egyptian Berbers was also observed. The first are related to European populations as shown by haplogroup H1 and V frequencies, whereas the latter share more affinities with East African and Nile Valley populations as indicated by the high frequency of M1 and the presence of L0a1, L3i, L4*, and L4b2 lineages. Moreover, haplogroup U6 was not observed in Siwa. We conclude that the origins and maternal diversity of Berber populations are old and complex, and these communities bear genetic characteristics resulting from various events of gene flow with surrounding and migrating populations.


Subject(s)
Genes, Mitochondrial , Genetics, Population , Africa, Northern , Emigration and Immigration , Ethnicity , Humans
6.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 62(10): 1215-23, 2008 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17622255

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of zinc supplementation on vitamin status in middle-aged and older volunteers. SUBJECTS/METHODS: Three hundred and eighty-seven healthy middle-aged (55-70 years) and older (70-85 years) men and women, randomly allocated to three groups to receive 15 or 30 mg Zn/day or placebo for 6 months. Dietary intake was assessed by means of a validated 4-day recall record. Fasting blood samples were simultaneously analysed for levels of plasma retinol and alpha-tocopherol by high-performance liquid chromatography. Erythrocyte folates were measured by a competitive immunoassay with direct chemiluminescence detection on an automatized immunoanalyser. Biochemical measurements were performed at baseline and after 3 and 6 months of zinc supplementation. RESULTS: Plasma vitamin A levels were significantly increased proportionally with zinc dose and period of treatment, particularly at 6 months (for 15 mg Zn/day, P<0.05; for 30 mg Zn/day, P<0.0001); no significant changes were observed in the placebo group. There was no effect of zinc supplementation on vitamin E/cholesterol ratio and erythrocyte folates. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that a long-term zinc supplementation increases plasma vitamin A levels in middle-aged and older people of similar characteristics to those involved in this study. Moreover, supplementation influences serum zinc levels but does not affect erythrocyte zinc concentration and both plasma vitamin E and erythrocyte folate status.


Subject(s)
Diet , Nutritional Status , Trace Elements/administration & dosage , Zinc/administration & dosage , Zinc/blood , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Aging/physiology , Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods , Dietary Supplements , Dose-Response Relationship, Drug , Double-Blind Method , Erythrocytes/chemistry , Female , Folic Acid/blood , Folic Acid/metabolism , Humans , Luminescent Measurements/methods , Male , Mental Recall , Middle Aged , Nutrition Surveys , Vitamin A/blood , Vitamin E/blood
7.
J Radiol ; 88(11 Pt 1): 1689-94, 2007 Nov.
Article in French | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-18065928

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The quality of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) images is frequently degraded by high signal from the gastrointestinal tract on heavily T2W images. The purpose of this study is to evaluate pineapple juice (PJ) as an oral negative contrast agent in MRCP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Results from MRCP in 50 patients with PJ and 50 patients with paramagnetic contrast (ferumoxsil-Lumirem) were compared. Reviewers were blinded to the type of contrast agent. Exam quality was recorded with regards to signal suppression in the stomach, duodenum and proximal small bowel and with regards to pancreatic duct and biliary ducts visualization. In vitro, the signal characteristics of several commercially available brands of PJ were assessed using T1W, T2W and MRCP sequences. Signal intensity was correlated with the manganese concentration measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. Finally, the reviewers compared the taste of PJ and ferumoxsil. RESULTS: On MRCP sequences, results were similar with regards to signal suppression in the stomach, duodenum and proximal small bowel with PJ and ferumoxsil. Visualization of the pancreatic duct, intrahgepatic bile ducts and CBD was similar with PJ and ferumoxsil. The signal intensity of commercially available brands of PJ on T2W and MRCP sequences correlated well with the measured manganese concentration on spectroscopy. Variations in manganese concentration were observed, with values ranging from 3.65 to 27.24 mg/L. The reviewers noted that PJ tasted "good" or "very good" and that ferumoxsil tasted "bad" or "very bad". CONCLUSION: Ingestion of PJ provides effective signal suppression in the GI tract on MRCP, similar to paramagnetic contrast agents. Because manganese concentration is highly variable in commercially available PJ brands, a brand with high manganese concentration should be selected.


Subject(s)
Ananas , Beverages , Cholangiopancreatography, Magnetic Resonance/methods , Contrast Media , Iron , Oxides , Siloxanes , Administration, Oral , Chi-Square Distribution , Contrast Media/administration & dosage , Ferrosoferric Oxide , Humans , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted , Imaging, Three-Dimensional , Magnetite Nanoparticles , Manganese/analysis , Spectrophotometry, Atomic , Taste
8.
J Nutr Health Aging ; 11(2): 165-74, 2007.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17435958

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to provide descriptive information on anthropometric status, pathological conditions, cognitive impairment and lifestyle in apparently healthy elderly Italian people. DESIGN, SETTING AND SUBJECTS: In order to recruit the volunteers for the ZENITH study, 359 Italian participants (167 men and 192 women), aged between 70 and 85 years, free living in Rome, were selected. Volunteers underwent a full clinical examination, anthropometric measurements (height, weight), a lifestyle questionnaire and mental health assessment (cognitive impairment and depression). RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was high (57% and 22% in men; 43% and 27% in women). Obesity was associated with low socio-economic profile in about 40% of participants. Although the sample was selected by family doctors and was apparently healthy, after medical screening the presence of several pathologies, particularly diabetes in 21% of participants was observed. There was a low prevalence of cognitive impairment in 4% of men and 7% of women and possible depression in 9% of men and 19% of women. The lifestyle questionnaire showed that most of their time was spent in light activities such as reading, watching TV or playing cards and significant differences between sex and BMI categories were observed (P=0.000). CONCLUSION: The results confirm the increasingly sedentary lifestyle of modern populations and demonstrate the need for sensitive and individualised strategies to design appropriate health promotion and disease prevention programs for older adults.


Subject(s)
Anthropometry , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/epidemiology , Health Status , Life Style , Mental Health , Obesity/epidemiology , Activities of Daily Living , Age Factors , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Body Mass Index , Cognition Disorders/diagnosis , Cognition Disorders/epidemiology , Depression/diagnosis , Depression/epidemiology , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/diagnosis , Female , Humans , Italy/epidemiology , Male , Obesity/diagnosis , Sex Factors , Socioeconomic Factors
9.
Arch Biochem Biophys ; 458(1): 24-32, 2007 Feb 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16564020

ABSTRACT

Magnesium is involved in a wide range of biochemical reactions that are crucial to cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. Changes in magnesium availability have been shown to influence biological responses of immuno-inflammatory cells. Equally plausible seems to be an involvement of magnesium in the multistep and interconnected processes that lead to tumor formation and development; however, the "how" and "when" of such an involvement remain to be defined. Here, we reviewed in vitro and in vivo data that indicated a role for magnesium in many biological and clinical aspects of cancer (from neoplastic transformation to tumor growth and progression or pharmacologic treatment). In adopting this approach we went through a full circle from molecular aspects to observational or epidemiological studies that could reconcile in a unifying picture the otherwise fragmentary or puzzling data currently available on the role of magnesium in cancer.


Subject(s)
Cell Transformation, Neoplastic , Magnesium/metabolism , Neoplasms/metabolism , Animals , Disease Progression , Humans , Neoplasms/pathology , Neoplasms/therapy , Neovascularization, Pathologic
10.
Clin Biochem ; 39(7): 700-7, 2006 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16603147

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This work aims at studying the effect of daily versus twice weekly long-term Fe supplementation on Fe absorption and status in Fe-deficient women. DESIGN AND METHODS: The study design is a randomized controlled open study carried out in the Internal Medicine Department, CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, France. Twenty-four young women participated in this study and were randomized into two groups: Group 1 received 50 mg Fe daily, and group 2 received 50 mg Fe twice weekly for 3 months. On day 10 (D10) and on day 90 (D90) of Fe supplementation, blood samples were obtained, and women received orally about 5 mg of 57Fe, and blood was sampled at different times over 24 h. The 57Fe absorption was evaluated by calculating the areas under the curves (AUC). Fe and oxidative stress status were also assessed. RESULTS: 57Fe absorption was similar in both groups on D10 but was greatly decreased in Group 1 and remained high in Group 2 on D90. Fe status was more improved in Group 1 than in Group 2. Oxidative stress status remained statistically unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that daily Fe supplementation is able to correct an Fe deficiency much more than twice weekly Fe supplementation in young women.


Subject(s)
Deficiency Diseases/drug therapy , Iron/administration & dosage , Iron/therapeutic use , Absorption , Adolescent , Adult , Area Under Curve , Body Weight , Deficiency Diseases/blood , Drug Administration Schedule , Female , Ferritins/blood , Ferritins/drug effects , Humans , Iron/blood , Oxidative Stress , Treatment Outcome
11.
Eur J Nutr ; 45(3): 171-7, 2006 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16155740

ABSTRACT

Low intracellular magnesium (Mg) contents may be observed in case of severe Mg insufficient intake or because of genetic regulation. This work was conducted to investigate the influence of intracellular Mg content on erythrocyte Mg(2+) influx and efflux in mice with low nutritionally and genetically (MGL and MGH mice) Mg status. C57BL6 mice were fed for 2 wks a diet containing 1000 mg Mg/kg diet Mg (control group), 100 mg Mg/kg diet (Mg-marginal group) or 30 mg Mg/kg diet (Mg deficient group), while mice with low (MGL) and high (MGH) Mg levels were fed a control diet for 2 wks. The quantification of erythrocyte Mg(2+) influx and efflux was performed using a stable isotope of Mg. Our results showed that erythrocyte Mg(2+) influx and efflux were respectively increased and decreased in nutritional Mg deficiency; while in genetically determined Mg status Mg(2+) fluxes were lower in MGL mice compared to MGH mice. Moreover Mg(2+) efflux was significantly correlated to Mg level in erythrocytes in all the mice studied (p < 0.001). In conclusion, erythrocyte Mg(2+) influx and efflux are modulated by low Mg status, namely decreased Mg(2+) efflux compensate for nutritional Mg deficiency, while the genetic regulation of erythrocyte Mg(2+) content depends on modification of Mg(2+) influx.


Subject(s)
Erythrocytes/metabolism , Magnesium Deficiency/metabolism , Magnesium/administration & dosage , Magnesium/metabolism , Nutritional Status , Animals , Animals, Genetically Modified , Dose-Response Relationship, Drug , Female , Homeostasis/genetics , Homeostasis/physiology , Magnesium/blood , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL
12.
Am J Hum Biol ; 18(1): 23-34, 2006 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16378347

ABSTRACT

The GM immunoglobulin allotype polymorphism was investigated in four Moroccan populations: three Berber groups from Khenifra (Middle Atlas), Amizmiz (High Atlas), and Bouhria (Beni Snassen) and one Arabic-speaking sample from the Doukkala area (Abda, Chaouia, Doukkali, and Tadla districts in south-central Morocco). In order to characterize the genetic relationships between the populations, our results were compared with those obtained for other North African groups (from Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Niger) and for Middle-East Africans, sub-Saharans, and Southwest Europeans. Based on GM haplotype frequencies, Factorial Correspondence Analyses, F(ST) significance testing, and hierarchical analyses of variance were performed. Our results reveal that Moroccan populations have heterogeneous GM profiles with high frequencies of GM haplotypes in Europeans (from 76% for Doukkala to 88% for Bouhria) and relatively high frequencies of GM haplotypes in sub-Saharans (from 11% for Bouhria to 23% for Amizmiz). The genetic diversity observed among Moroccans is not significantly correlated with either geographic or linguistic differentiation. In spite of their cultural and historical differentiation, we did not discover any significant genetic differences between Berbers and Arabic-speakers from Morocco. However, when large geographical areas are considered, our population samples are integrated in the North African GM variation, significantly distant from sub-Saharan groups but with a close relationship with Southwest European populations.


Subject(s)
Ethnicity/genetics , Genetics, Population , Immunoglobulin Gm Allotypes/genetics , Analysis of Variance , Arabs/genetics , Female , Gene Frequency , Genetic Variation , Haplotypes , Humans , Male , Morocco , Phenotype , Polymorphism, Genetic
13.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S1-4, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254574

ABSTRACT

The elderly are at nutritional risk as a result of multiple physiological, social, psychological, and economic factors. Physiological functions naturally decline with age, which may influence absorption and metabolism. Social and economic conditions can adversely affect dietary choices and eating patterns. However, at the same time, the nutrient needs of the elderly for certain nutrient (such as vitamins, minerals, proteins) is higher than for younger adults. This article reviews the importance of zinc (Zn) in elderly people, particularly for behavioural and mental function, micronutrient status, immune and antioxidant system, and bone metabolism.


Subject(s)
Aging/physiology , Nutrition Surveys , Zinc , Aged , Aging/immunology , Aging/metabolism , Antioxidants/physiology , Bone and Bones/drug effects , Bone and Bones/metabolism , Cognition/drug effects , Cognition/physiology , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Micronutrients/deficiency , Middle Aged , Zinc/immunology , Zinc/metabolism
14.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S13-21, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254575

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To describe health and lifestyle factors of participants in the ZENITH study. DESIGN: A prospective multicentre intervention study employing a randomised double-blind design. PARTICIPANTS: Community dwelling older adults (n = 387), aged 55-87 y were recruited from regions in France, Italy and the UK. INTERVENTION: A self-report questionnaire comprising socio-demographic variables, dietary habits, physical activity in the home, at work and recreation. RESULTS: Participants differed with regards dietary habits and physical activity for each region. Recreational activity was higher in France and women generally tend to perform less hours of recreational activity per week than men. CONCLUSIONS: The differences found for these regions of Europe in relation to lifestyle factors will affect health and well-being within these countries and may mediate the impact of zinc supplementation on various biological and psychological parameters.


Subject(s)
Aging/physiology , Health Status , Life Style , Nutrition Surveys , Aged , Double-Blind Method , Europe , Feeding Behavior/physiology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Motor Activity/physiology , Prospective Studies , Recreation/physiology , Self Disclosure , Sex Factors , Socioeconomic Factors , Surveys and Questionnaires , Time Factors
15.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S22-5, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254576

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of positive and negative affect (mood) in an ageing European sample. BACKGROUND: Mood quality has important implications for both physical and mental wellbeing. Poor quality moods are associated with deficits in the diverse areas of cognitive function, health, and social relationships. The ageing process presents a number of potential challenges to successful mood regulation that could have wider implications. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS: The current study examines the quality of positive and negative affect in 387 healthy participants from three European countries. Moods were measured four times a day for 4-7 d with the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) mood scales. Measures of zinc (Zn) status were taken also. SETTING: Two centres concentrated on 55-70 yr olds (Coleraine, N.Ireland, n = 93 and Clermont-Ferrand, France, n = 95), and two centres concentrated on 70-87 yr olds (Rome, Italy, n = 108, and Grenoble, France, n = 91). RESULTS: Positive affect scores for the centre in Rome were significantly (P < 0.01) lower than for the other three centres, and the Grenoble centre had significantly (P < 0.05) higher scores on negative affect than the other three centres. Mood was not related to measures of zinc status (all Ps > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The two centres with the oldest participants showed deficits in mood quality that may have implications for broader well-being.


Subject(s)
Affect/physiology , Aging/psychology , Nutrition Surveys , Zinc/blood , Age Factors , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Analysis of Variance , Dietary Supplements , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Psychometrics , Reference Values , Sex Factors
16.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S31-6, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254578

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Age-related decline in taste acuity may be both a cause and an effect of depleted zinc and/or increased zinc requirement. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore associations between zinc status and taste acuity in healthy older European adults aged 55-90 y. SAMPLE: Volunteers were recruited within Italy (n = 108 aged 70-90 y), the United Kingdom (UK) (n = 93 aged 55-70) and two regions of France (n = 186), Grenoble (aged 70-90 y) and Clermont-Ferrand (aged 55-70 y). METHODS: A signal detection theory approach was adopted, employing a three-alternative, forced-choice procedure. The data were converted to R-indices and bivariate correlations were computed to explore relationships between serum zinc, erythrocyte zinc and taste acuity. ANOVA was undertaken to determine regional differences in zinc status. RESULTS: Higher erythrocyte zinc status was associated with better acuity for salt (sodium chloride) taste in the sample as a whole (P = 0.012) (n = 385). Higher serum zinc levels were associated with greater sensitivity to sour taste (citric acid) (P = 0.015) only in the older groups (aged 70-90 y). There were no apparent associations between serum or erythrocyte zinc status and acuity for bitter (quinine) or sweet (sucrose) tastes irrespective of age. CONCLUSION: These results agree with those previously suggesting that age-related detriment in sensitivity for salt taste may be associated with depleted zinc.


Subject(s)
Aging/physiology , Nutrition Surveys , Nutritional Status/physiology , Taste/physiology , Zinc/blood , Age Factors , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Analysis of Variance , Erythrocytes/physiology , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , ROC Curve , Reference Values , Signal Detection, Psychological/physiology , Single-Blind Method
17.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S26-30, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254577

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Baseline data are reported from a study of the effects of zinc supplementation on cognitive function in older adults as assessed by the CANTAB computerised test battery. DESIGN: This is a multicentre prospective intervention study employing a randomised double-blind design. SETTING: European community-based study. PARTICIPANTS: There are 387 healthy adults aged 55-87 y from centres in France, Italy and Northern Ireland. INTERVENTIONS: Measures of visual memory, working memory and attention were obtained at baseline (prior to supplementation). RESULTS: Younger adults (<70 y) performed significantly better than older adults (>70 y) on all tests, with minimal differences between centres. In addition, men outperformed women on tests of spatial span, pattern recognition memory and reaction times, although these gender differences varied somewhat between centres. CONCLUSIONS: The results are generally consistent with previous age- and gender-related effects on cognitive functioning.


Subject(s)
Aging/psychology , Cognition/physiology , Dietary Supplements , Zinc/administration & dosage , Age Factors , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Analysis of Variance , Attention/physiology , Double-Blind Method , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Male , Memory/physiology , Middle Aged , Neuropsychological Tests , Prospective Studies , Reference Values , Sex Factors
18.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S37-41, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254579

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Inadequate intakes of micronutrients in elderly negatively affect the nutritional status. Zinc is an essential micronutrient in the elderly, especially in relation to its impact on immune function, bone mass, cognitive function and oxidative stress. However, data are lacking on zinc intake and status during normal ageing. In this study, we evaluate the intake and status of zinc in late middle-aged and older free-living subjects. DESIGN: Dietary zinc intake and zinc status in 188 middle-aged subjects from Clermont-Ferrand (Fr) and Coleraine (UK), and in 199 older subjects from Grenoble (Fr) and Roma (It) were assessed at the entry in the ZENITH study. RESULTS: In relation to the zinc RDA for people older than 55 y, zinc intakes in most of the middle-aged and older subjects (more than 96%) in the present study were adequate. Older people had significantly lower (P < 0.01) energy intakes as compared to middle-aged. Zinc intake expressed per MJ was also significantly (P < 0.01) higher in older people compared to middle-aged. Erythrocyte and urinary zinc concentrations were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in middle-aged subjects compared to older ones. The prevalence of biological Zn deficiency in free-living ageing European people was low (<5%). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study showed a relatively low prevalence of zinc deficiencies in healthy free-living late middle-age and older subjects. These results should be useful for health professionals to have reference data on zinc intake and status for a healthy ageing.


Subject(s)
Aging/physiology , Nutrition Surveys , Nutritional Status/physiology , Zinc/administration & dosage , Zinc/blood , Age Factors , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Analysis of Variance , Energy Intake/physiology , Europe/epidemiology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/statistics & numerical data , Reference Values , Zinc/deficiency
19.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S48-52, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254581

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Adjustments in intestinal absorption and losses of zinc (Zn) are thought to maintain Zn homeostasis when dietary intake levels are altered. Zn status may also influence efficiency of intestinal Zn absorption. OBJECTIVES: To determine the impact of dietary intake and status of some micronutrients on Zn absorption in late middle-aged men. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS: Dietary intake and status of Zn, Cu, Fe, vitamin A, C and fibre, and absorption of Zn were measured in 48 men, aged 58-68 y, confined to a metabolic unit and consuming a typical French diet. Dietary intake was estimated using 4-day food-intake records (including the weekend) and the GENI program. To assess Zn status, serum, erythrocyte, urine Zn levels and serum alkaline phosphatase activity were determined. Zn absorption was determined using the isotope double-labelling method. Zn stable isotopic ratios were measured in plasma samples collected before and 48 h after isotope administration using ICP/MS. RESULTS: Zn intake within the group of men varied from 5.7 to 20.5 mg/day and averaged 12.9 mg/day. Serum Zn level varied from 10 to 18 micromol/l and averaged 12.9 micromol/l. Zn absorption varied from 12 to 46% and averaged 29.7%. Zn absorption was not significantly (P > 0.05) correlated with Zn intake or with any of the Zn status parameters. Zn absorption was only slightly negatively correlated with serum and erythrocyte Zn levels and with serum Fe and ferritin levels in this study. CONCLUSION: Zn dietary intake and Zn absorption were satisfactory and led to an adequate Zn status in this population.


Subject(s)
Intestinal Absorption/physiology , Micronutrients/administration & dosage , Micronutrients/blood , Nutrition Surveys , Nutritional Status/physiology , Zinc/pharmacokinetics , Aged , Aging/metabolism , Aging/physiology , Alkaline Phosphatase/blood , Copper/blood , Diet Records , France , Humans , Iron/blood , Isotope Labeling/methods , Male , Mass Spectrometry/methods , Middle Aged , Reference Values , Time Factors , Zinc/blood , Zinc/urine
20.
Eur J Clin Nutr ; 59 Suppl 2: S42-7, 2005 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16254580

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To report selected dietary intake and vitamin status at baseline of volunteers participating in the ZENITH study and the correlation of vitamin status with zinc. DESIGN: A multicentre prospective intervention study employing a randomised double-blind design. SETTING: Clermont-Ferrand, Theix (France), Coleraine (Northern Ireland), Grenoble (France), Rome (Italy). PARTICIPANTS: In total, 387 healthy middle-aged (55-70 y) and older (70-87 y) men and women participated in the study. METHODS: Dietary intake was assessed by means of a validated 4-d recall record. Fasting blood samples were simultaneously analysed for retinol and alpha-tocopherol by the HLPC method. Erythrocyte folates were measured by a competitive immunoassay with direct chemiluminescence detection on an automatised immunoanalyser. RESULTS: In all centres, men had a significantly (P < 0.0001) higher mean nutrient intake than women. Comparison between age-groups showed that older individuals had significantly lower intakes of macro- and selected micronutrients than middle-aged subjects (P < 0.0001). A high fat intake (from 36 to 40% of total energy) was observed in all examined groups. In relation to biochemical measures of vitamin status, all parameters were above their respective cut-off values for normality and, thus, none of the subjects had biochemical evidence of deficiency of these selected vitamins. A moderate correlation was found with plasma vitamin A and serum zinc (r = 0.12, P < 0.05) or red blood cell zinc (r = 0.12, P < 0.01) and with erythrocyte folates and red blood cell zinc (r = 0.11, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: There were only moderate differences in the nutrient intake of the ZENITH study volunteers among the four European centres. Their biochemical status for retinol, alpha-tocopherol and folate appeared adequate.


Subject(s)
Folic Acid/administration & dosage , Folic Acid/blood , Nutritional Status/physiology , Vitamin A/administration & dosage , Vitamin A/blood , Vitamin E/administration & dosage , Vitamin E/blood , Age Factors , Aged , Aging/physiology , Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods , Diet Records , Double-Blind Method , Europe , Female , Humans , Luminescent Measurements/methods , Male , Middle Aged , Nutrition Surveys , Prospective Studies , Reference Values , Sex Factors
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