Missense genetic variants in major bitter taste receptors are associated with diet quality and food intake in a highly admixed underrepresented population.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: To investigate associations between Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TAS1R and TAS2R taste receptors and diet quality, intake of alcohol, added sugar, and fat, using linear regression and machine learning techniques in a highly admixed population. METHODS: In the ISA-Capital health survey, 901 individuals were interviewed and had socioeconomic, demographic, health characteristics, along with dietary information obtained through two 24-h recalls. Data on 12 components related to food groups, nutrients, and calories was combined into a diet quality score (BHEI-R). BHEI-R, SoFAAs (calories from added sugar, saturated fat, and alcohol) and Alcohol use were tested for associations with 255 TAS2R SNPs and 73 TAS1R SNPs for 637 individuals with regression analysis and Random Forest. Significant SNPs were combined into Genetic taste scores (GTSs). RESULTS: Among 23 SNPs significantly associated either by stepwise linear/logistic regression or random forest with any possible biological functionality, the missense variants rs149217752 in TAS2R40, for SoFAAs, and rs2233997 in TAS2R4, were associated with both BHEI-R (under 4% increase in Mean Squared Error) and SoFAAs. GTSs increased the variance explanation of quantitative phenotypes and there was a moderately high AUC for alcohol use. CONCLUSIONS: The study provides insights into the genetic basis of human taste perception through the identification of missense variants in the TAS2R gene family. These findings may contribute to future strategies in precision nutrition aimed at improving food quality by reducing added sugar, saturated fat, and alcohol intake.

Low levels of potentially toxic elements in workers are associated with self-reported health outcomes.

Occupational exposure to toxic elements can adversely affect health. The current study evaluated blood concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTE) including As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sn, and Zn in formal and informal workers. Additionally, the study investigated the associations between blood PTE concentrations and reported health outcomes in the study population. The exposed group included women engaged in informal jewelry welding within their homes in Limeira, São Paulo state, Brazil (n = 36) and men who worked at a steel company in Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil (n = 22). The control group comprised residents of the same neighborhoods as the workers but without occupational exposure to chemicals (n = 28 in Limeira; n = 27 in Volta Redonda). Triple Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (TQ ICP-MS) was used to determine PTE concentrations in blood samples. Glycemia, insulin, and lipid profile tests were performed. All participants completed questionnaires on household risk and reported morbidity. The blood concentrations of Cd, As, and Pb, as well as glycemia, were higher in informal workers than in control subjects. No significant differences were observed between formal workers and control subjects. A robust Poisson regression model, adjusted for variables suggested by a Directed Acyclic Graph, disclosed associations of blood lead and arsenic concentrations with the prevalence of neurological manifestations in Limeira. Blood lead levels > 2.6 µg dL-1 were associated with 2.3 times the prevalence of self-reported neurological manifestations (95 % CI: 1.17-4.58; p = 0.02) than lower blood lead concentrations. Furthermore, a positive association between blood cadmium concentrations and glycemia was observed. Informal occupational exposure to these elements may indicate an increased risk of developing diseases. Monitoring exposure and implementing interventions to reduce PTE exposure in the work environment represent significant steps toward prevention.

Effect of nuts on lipid profile and inflammatory biomarkers in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PURPOSE: Nut-enriched diets are related to improve lipid and inflammatory biomarkers in meta-analyses in the context of primary cardiovascular prevention. However, primary studies on secondary cardiovascular prevention are scarce and controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of nut supplementation on lipid and inflammatory profiles in individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and the frequency of adverse events. METHODS: Six databases were used for research: PubMed, EMBASE, BVS, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov, until February 2023, with no language restrictions. We performed random-effects meta-analyses to compare nut-enriched diets vs. control diets for pre-post intervention changes. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system assessed the evidence's certainty. RESULTS: From the 5187 records identified, eight publications containing data referring to five randomized clinical trials involving 439 participants were included in the final analyses. The nuts evaluated were almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts, and mixed nuts, with doses ranging between 5 g and 85 g (median: 30 g/day). The intervention time varied between 6 and 12 weeks. Compared to nut-free diets, nut intake did not have a statistically significant effect on lipid profile biomarkers, except on the atherogenic index (MD: -0.32 [95% CI -0.58 to -0.06], I2 = 0% - moderate certainty of the evidence). Similarly, there was no effect of nuts on inflammatory profile biomarkers. It was not possible to aggregate data on adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Nut supplementation did not change lipid and inflammatory profiles in the secondary cardiovascular prevention setting.

Pragmatic Carbohydrate Quality Metrics in Relation to Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, and Front-of-Pack Warning Labels in Grain Foods.

The challenges in the characterization of the nutritional quality of grain foods comprise obstacles to public health actions toward promotion of healthier grain-based foods. The present study investigated how carbohydrate metrics related to glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and warning labels of grain foods consumed by individuals living in São Paulo, Brazil. Information on intake of grain foods at individual level was obtained using 24 h recalls within a cross-sectional population-based survey conducted in 2015. There were 244 unique grain products reported by individuals in the survey, assessed through four metrics of carbohydrate quality, considering contents per 10 g of total carbohydrate: (1) ≥1 g fiber, (2) ≥1 g fiber and <1 g free sugars, (3) ≥1 g fiber and <2 g free sugars, and (4) ≥1 g fiber, and <2 g free sugars per 1 g of fiber. Outcomes included GI, GL, and inclusion of warning labels proposed by the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the Chilean Ministry of Health (1st and 3rd stages), and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Metrics identified products with lower mean GI (-12.8 to -9.0 [p-values < 0.001]), and GL (-12.5 to -10.3 [p-values < 0.001]). Warning systems showed a certain degree of discrimination between products according to the metrics (p-value < 0.01 each); however, >50% of products with good nutritional quality according to the carbohydrate metrics still would receive warnings. Findings suggest that carbohydrate metrics identified products with lower GI and GL, and current warning labels may not adequately capture overall nutritional quality of grain foods.

High Adherence to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern Is Inversely Associated with Systemic Inflammation in Older but Not in Younger Brazilian Adults.

The Mediterranean dietary pattern (MPD) has shown promise in preventing low-grade systemic inflammation (LGSI). This study tested if a high adherence to the MDP by younger and older Brazilian adults is associated with lower LGSI and investigated which Mediterranean food components may contribute to these associations. We performed a secondary study on 2015 ISA-Nutrition (290 younger adults (20-59 years old) and 293 older adults (≥60 years old)), a cross-sectional population-based study in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. The adherence to the MDP was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Score (MedDietScore), obtained from two non-consecutive 24 h dietary recalls (24HDRs). The LGSI score (from plasma CRP, TNF-α, and adiponectin) identified the inflammatory status. Linear regression models assessed the association between LGSI and the MedDietScore. In older adults only, a high adherence to the MDP signified an 11.5% lower LGSI score. Older adults, classified with high adherence to the MDP, differed by consuming lower meat intake and full-fat dairy. Between older adults, the intake of vegetables and olive oil was inversely associated with the levels of LGSI. Thus, among older adults, the intake of some specific Mediterranean food determined high adherence to the MDP and was associated with decreased LGSI.

Effect of Nuts on Anthropometric and Glycemic Indexes and Blood Pressure in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

CONTEXT: Nut-enriched diets have a positive impact on cardiovascular risk factors, such as body mass, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. However, studies in individuals undergoing secondary cardiovascular prevention show controversial results. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review with meta-analysis assessed the effect of nut supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, and blood pressure indices in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, as well as the frequency of adverse events. DATA SOURCES: Six databases were used for the search-PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, BVS (Biblioteca Virtual da Saude), Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov-until February 2023, with no language restrictions. DATA EXTRACTION: The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions methodology and the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, Setting/design) strategy were used. Seven independent reviewers were involved in data extraction and resolution of disagreements. Certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system. DATA ANALYSIS: From 5187 records identified, 6 publications containing data referring to 5 randomized clinical trials (n = 436) were included in the final analyses. The nuts evaluated were almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts, and mixed nuts, with portions that varied between 5 g and 85 g (median: 30 g/day). The intervention period varied between 6 and 12 weeks. The nuts had no effect on fasting glucose and anthropometric indices, although the certainty of the evidence for most of these outcomes was low or very low. They also had no effect on systolic (mean difference [MD]: -1.16 mmHg [95% CI, -5.68 to 3.35], I2 = 0%-moderate certainty of evidence) or diastolic (MD: 0.10 mmHg [95% CI, -2.30 to 2.51], I2 = 0%-high certainty of evidence) blood pressure. It was not possible to aggregate data on adverse events. CONCLUSION: Nut supplementation had no effect on blood pressure, fasting glucose, or anthropometric profile in the context of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020163456.

The severity of COVID-19 upon hospital admission is associated with plasma omega-3 fatty acids.

Fatty acids are precursors of inflammatory oxylipins. In the context of COVID-19, an excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines is associated with disease severity. The objective was to investigate whether the baseline omega 3/omega 6 fatty acids ratio and the oxylipins were associated with inflammation and oxidative stress in unvaccinated patients with COVID-19, classified according to the severity of the disease during hospitalization. This Prospective population-based cohort study included 180 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The patients were classified into five groups according to the severity of their disease. Group 1 was the least severe and Group 5 was the most severe. Three specific types of fatty acids-eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and arachidonic acid (AA)-as well as their enzymatic and non-enzymatic oxylipins were determined using chromatography coupled mass spectrometry. There was no difference in the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids between the groups (p = 0.276). However, the EPA/AA ratio was lower in Group 4 compared to Group 1 (p = 0.015). This finding was associated with an increase in both C-Reactive Protein (p < 0.001) and Interleukin-6 (p = 0.002). Furthermore, the concentration of F2-Isoprostanes was higher in Group 4 than in Group 1 (p = 0.009), while no significant changes were observed for other oxylipins among groups. Multivariate analysis did not present any standard of biomarkers, suggesting the high complexity of factors involved in the disease severity. Our hypothesis was confirmed in terms of EPA/AA ratio. A higher EPA/AA ratio upon hospital admission was found to be associated with lower concentration of C-Reactive Protein and Interleukin-6, leading to a better prognosis of hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 patients. Importantly, this beneficial outcome was achieved without any form of supplementation. The trial also provides important information that can be further applied to reduce the severity of infections associated with an uncontrolled synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines.Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04449718 -01/06/2020. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04449718.

An adapted cardioprotective diet with or without phytosterol and/or krill oil supplement in familial hypercholesterolemia: A pilot study protocol

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: A healthy diet is one of the pillars of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) treatment. However, the best dietary pattern and indication for specific supplementation have not been established. Our aim is to conduct a pilot study to assess the effect of an adapted cardioprotective diet with or without phytosterol and/or krill oil supplement in participants with a probable or definitive diagnosis of FH, treated with moderate/high potency statins. METHODS: A national, multicenter, factorial, and parallel placebocontrolled randomized clinical trial with a superiority design and 1:1:1:1 allocation rate will be conducted. The participants will undergo whole exome sequencing and be allocated into four treatment groups: 1) a cardioprotective diet adapted for FH (DICAFH) þ phytosterol placebo þ krill oil placebo; 2) DICA-FH þ phytosterol 2 g/day þ krill oil placebo; 3) DICA-FH þ phytosterol placebo þ krill oil 2 g/day; or 4) DICA-FH þ phytosterol 2 g/day þ krill oil 2 g/day. The primary outcomes will be low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol and lipoprotein (a) levels and adherence to treatment after a 120-day follow-up. LDL- and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol subclasses, untargeted lipidomics analysis, adverse events, and protocol implementation components will also be assessed. RESULTS: A total of 58 participants were enrolled between May e August 2023. After the end of the follow-up period, the efficacy and feasibility results of this pilot study will form the basis of the design of a large-scale randomized clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS: This study's overall goal is to recommend dietary treatment strategies in the context of FH.

Effects of grape juice intake on the cell migration properties in overweight women: Modulation mechanisms of cell migration in vitro by delphinidin-3-O-glucoside.

Overweight and obesity are typical conditions of chronic low-intensity systemic inflammatory responses, and both have become more common in recent decades, which emphasizes the necessity for healthier diet intake. Fruits such as grapes are rich in anthocyanins, one of which is delphinidin, a promising chemopreventive agent with anti-inflammatory properties. Considering that polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) are rapidly mobilized to tissues when the inflammatory process is initiated, this study aimed to understand the impact of grape juice intake and delphinidin on the migration properties of PMNs. Overweight women ingested 500 mL of grape juice for 28 days, and then lipid and inflammatory profiles, as well as the white blood cell count (WBC), were evaluated. Additionally, the gene expression of inflammatory markers and quantified migration molecules such as CD11/CD18, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were evaluated in PMNs. The influence of delphinidin-3-O-glucoside in vitro on some migration properties was also evaluated. Grape juice intake did not influence the lipid profile or affect the WBC. However, NFκB gene expression was reduced in PMNs, also reducing the circulating values of IL-8, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1. The in vitro results demonstrated that delphinidin significantly reduced the migration potential of cells and reduced CD11-/CD18-positive cells, the gene expression of ICAM-1, and the phosphorylation and gene expression of NFκB. Additionally, delphinidin also reduced the production of IL-6, IL-8, and CCL2. Grape juice, after 28 days of intervention, influenced some properties related to cell migration, and delphinidin in vitro can modify the cell migration properties.

Effects of Branched-Chain Amino Acids on the Inflammatory Response Induced by LPS in Caco-2 Cells.

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are essential for maintaining intestinal mucosal integrity. However, only a few studies have explored the role of BCAA in the modulation of intestinal inflammation. In this study, we investigated in vitro effects of BCAA on the inflammatory response induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (1 µg/mL) in Caco-2 cells. Caco-2 cells were assigned to six groups: control without BCAA (CTL0), normal BCAA (CTL; 0.8 mM leucine, 0.8 mM isoleucine, and 0.8 mM valine); leucine (LEU; 2 mM leucine), isoleucine (ISO; 2 mM isoleucine), valine (VAL; 2 mM valine), and high BCAA (LIV; 2 mM leucine, 2 mM isoleucine, and 2 mM valine). BCAA was added to the culture medium 24 h before LPS stimulation. Our results indicated that BCAA supplementation did not impair cell viability. The amino acids leucine and isoleucine attenuated the synthesis of IL-8 and JNK and NF-kB phosphorylation induced by LPS. Furthermore, neither BCAA supplementation nor LPS treatment modulated the activity of glutathione peroxidase or the intracellular reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio. Therefore, leucine and isoleucine exert anti-inflammatory effects in Caco-2 cells exposed to LPS by modulating JNK and NF-kB phosphorylation and IL-8 production. Further in vivo studies are required to validate these findings and gather valuable information for potential therapeutic or dietary interventions.

Effect of Low-Dose Progesterone on Glycemic Metabolism, Morphology and Function of Adipose Tissue and Pancreatic Islets in Diet-Induced Obese Female Mice.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a worldwide concern due to its global rapid expansion and remarkable impact on individual's health by predisposing to several other diseases. About twice as many women as men suffer from severe obesity and, in fact, there are stages in a woman's life when weight gain and adiposity can result in greater damage to health. For example, obesity triples the chance of a woman developing gestational diabetes. Many hormones promote the metabolic adaptations of pregnancy, including progesterone, whose role in female obesity is still not well known despite being involved in many physiological and pathological processes. METHODS: Here we investigated whether progesterone treatment at low dose can worsen the glucose metabolism and the morpho functional aspects of adipose tissue and pancreas in obese females. Mice were assigned into four groups: normocaloric diet control (NO-CO), high-fat and -fructose diet control (HFF-CO), normocaloric diet plus progesterone (NO-PG) and high-fat and -fructose diet plus progesterone (HFF-PG) for 10 weeks. Infusion of progesterone (0.25 mg/kg/day) was done by osmotic minipump in the last 21 days of protocol. RESULTS: Animals fed a hypercaloric diet exhibited obesity with increased body weight (p < 0.0001), adipocyte hypertrophy (p < 0.0001), hyperglycemia (p = 0.03), and glucose intolerance (p = 0.001). HFF-CO and HFF-PG groups showed lower adiponectin concentration (p < 0.0001) and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (p = 0.03), without differences in islet size. Progesterone attenuated glucose intolerance in the HFF-PG group (p = 0.03), however, did not change morphology or endocrine function of adipose tissue and pancreatic islets. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, our results showed that low dose of progesterone does not worsen the effects of hypercaloric diet in glycemic metabolism, morphology and function of adipose tissue and pancreatic islets in female animals. These results may improve the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of obesity in women and eventually open new avenues for therapeutic strategies and better comprehension of the interactions between progesterone effects and obesity.

Association of dyslipidemia with single nucleotide polymorphisms of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein gene and cardiovascular disease risk factors in a highly admixed population.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major causes of mortality worldwide, leading to premature deaths, loss of quality of life, and extensive socioeconomic impacts. Alterations in normal plasma lipid concentrations comprise important risk factors associated with CVD due to mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Genetic markers such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are known to be associated with lipid metabolism, including variants in the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) gene. Thus, the study's objective was to assess the relationship among lipid profile, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, health status, inflammatory biomarkers, and CETP genetic variants in individuals living in a highly admixed population. METHODS: The study comprises an analysis of observational cross-sectional data representative at the population level from a highly admixed population, encompassing 901 individuals from three age groups (adolescents, adults, and older adults). Socioeconomic, demographic, health, and lifestyle characteristics were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. In addition, biochemical markers and lipid profiles were obtained from individuals' blood samples. After DNA extraction, genotyping, and quality control according to Affymetrix's guidelines, information on 15 SNPs in the CETP gene was available for 707 individuals. Lipid profile and CVD risk factors were evaluated by principal component analysis (PCA), and associations between lipid traits and those factors were assessed through multiple linear regression and logistic regression. RESULTS: There were low linear correlations between lipid profile and other individuals' characteristics. Two principal components were responsible for 80.8 % of the total variance, and there were minor differences in lipid profiles among individuals in different age groups. Non-HDL-c, total cholesterol, and LDL-c had the highest loadings in the first PC, and triacylglycerols, VLDL-c and HDL-c were responsible for a major part of the loading in the second PC;, whilst HDL-c and LDL-c/HDL-c ratio were significant in the third PC. In addition, there were minor differences between groups of individuals with or without dyslipidemia regarding inflammatory biomarkers (IL-1ß, IL- 6, IL-10, TNF-α, CRP, and MCP-1). Being overweight, insulin resistance, and lifestyle characteristics (calories from solid fat, added sugar, alcohol and sodium, leisure physical activity, and smoking) were strong predictors of lipid traits, especially HDL-c and dyslipidemia (p < 0.05). The CETP SNPs rs7499892 and rs12691052, rs291044, and rs80180245 were significantly associated with HDL-c (p < 0.05), and their inclusion in the multiple linear regression model increased its accuracy (adjusted R2 rose from 0.12 to 0.18). CONCLUSION: This study identified correlations between lipid traits and other CVD risk factors. In addition, similar lipid and inflammatory profiles across age groups in the population suggested that adolescents might already present a significant risk for developing cardiovascular diseases in the population. The risk can be primarily attributed to decreased HDL-c concentrations, which appear to be influenced by genetic factors, as evidenced by associations between SNPs in the CETP gene and HDL-c concentrations, as well as potential gene-diet interactions. Our findings underscore the significant impact of genetic and lifestyle factors on lipid profile within admixed populations in developing countries.

Association between circulating micro-ribonucleic acids and metabolic syndrome in older adults from a population-based study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Aging is a major factor in development of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD). Epigenetic causes are risk factors in NCD development since studies indicate that the expression of micro-ribonucleic acids (miRs) is altered under different clinical conditions. This study aimed to analyze the expression profile of circulating miRs and investigate their association with biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk in older adults living in São Paulo municipality, Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted based on the analysis of data from 200 older adults, with a mean age of 69.1 (0.5) years old participating in the ISA-Nutrition. The expression profiles of 21 plasma miRs related to glycemic and lipid metabolism, adiposity, and inflammation were evaluated in relation to cardiometabolic risk. Individuals were distributed into groups according to diagnosis of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The Stata Somersd module was used to calculate confidence intervals for Kendall's tau-a to estimate the correlations among variables. RESULTS: Differences in the plasma expression were observed in two of the 21 miRs evaluated according to the MetS presence in participants. Individuals with MetS showed higher expression of miR-30a and miR-122 than individuals without MetS. CONCLUSIONS: Considering that miR-30, and miR-122 were altered due to MetS, these miRs may be potential biomarkers for MetS in older adults.

Occupational exposure to potentially toxic elements alters gene expression profiles in formal and informal Brazilian workers.

Chemical elements, such as toxic metals, have previously demonstrated their ability to alter gene expression in humans and other species. In this study, microarray analysis was used to compare the gene expression profiles of different occupational exposure populations: a) informal workers who perform soldering of jewelry inside their houses (n = 22) in São Paulo (SP) State; and b) formal workers from a steel company (n = 10) in Rio de Janeiro (RJ) state, Brazil. Control participants were recruited from the same neighborhoods without occupational chemical exposure (n = 19 in SP and n = 8 in RJ). A total of 68 blood samples were collected and RNA was extracted and hybridized using an Agilent microarray platform. Data pre-processing, statistical and pathway analysis were performed using GeneSpring software. Different expression was detected by fold-change analysis resulting in 16 up- and 33 down-regulated genes in informal workers compared to the control group. Pathway analysis revealed genes enriched in MAPK, Toll-like receptor, and NF-kappa B signaling pathways, involved in inflammatory and immune responses. In formal workers, 20 up- and 50 down-regulated genes were found related to antimicrobial peptides, defensins, neutrophil degranulation, Fc-gamma receptor-dependent phagocytosis, and pathways associated with atherosclerosis development, which is one of the main factors involved in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. The gene IFI27 was the only one commonly differentially expressed between informal and formal workers and is known to be associated with various types of cancer. In conclusion, differences in gene expression related to occupational exposure are mainly associated with inflammation and immune response. Previous research has identified a link between inflammation and immune responses and the development of chronic diseases, suggesting that prolonged occupational exposures to potentially toxic elements in Brazilian metal workers could lead to negative health outcomes. Further analysis should be carried out to investigate its direct effects and to validate causal associations.

Blood orange juice intake changes specific bacteria of gut microbiota associated with cardiometabolic biomarkers.

Blood orange juice is an important source of flavanones and anthocyanins, mainly hesperidin, narirutin, and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. The benefits of these bioactive compounds have been reported, but the mechanistic details behind their biological effects are not well established. This study investigated the effects of Moro orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) juice (MOJ) on gut microbiota composition and cardiometabolic biomarkers in overweight women. In this study, 12 overweight women (BMI from 25.0 to 29.9 kg/m2), aged 18-37 years, consumed 500 mL of MOJ every day for 4 weeks. We assessed the gut microbiota composition, levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), cardiometabolic biomarkers, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) at baseline and after 2 weeks and 4 weeks of MOJ intake. The results suggested that MOJ intake affected the abundance of specific operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of the gut microbiota but did not significantly alter the diversity and general composition of the gut microbiota. However, MOJ intake increased the production of SCFAs, especially propionic and isobutyric acids, and significantly improved cardiometabolic biomarkers such as blood pressure and plasma VCAM-1 levels in the overweight women. Additionally, we observed significant associations between gut microbiota OTUs belonging to the Bacteroidetes phyla and Prevotella 9 genera and the cardiometabolic biomarkers. Furthermore, MOJ reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels and HOMA-IR values, thereby enhancing insulin sensitivity in the insulin-resistant overweight women. Finally, we highlighted the importance of orange juice intake duration because some beneficial changes such as blood pressure improvements were evident at the 2-week time interval of the intervention, but other changes became significant only at the 4-week interval of MOJ intake. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that changes in specific OTUs of the gut microbiota in response to MOJ intake were associated with significant improvements in some cardiometabolic biomarkers and SCFA levels in overweight women with insulin resistance.

Circulating MiRNAs Are Associated With Low-grade Systemic Inflammation and Leptin Levels in Older Adults.

Inflammaging refers to the low-grade systemic inflammation that occurs with aging present in chronic non-communicable diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are potential biomarkers for these diseases in older adults. This study aimed to assess the expression of 21 circulating miRNAs and their associations with inflammatory biomarkers in older adults. This cross-sectional study was performed with 200 individuals participating in ISA-Nutrition. The systemic low-grade inflammation score (SIS) was calculated from the plasma concentration of 10 inflammatory biomarkers. Circulating miRNA expression was assessed using the Fluidigm method. Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was employed to determine differences in SIS among groups distributed according to sex and presence of MetS. Spearman's correlation was used to estimate correlations among SIS, leptin levels, miRNA expression, and variables of interest. Analyses were performed using software R version 4.2.3, with a significance level of 0.05. The final sample consisted of 193 individuals with a mean age of 69.1 (SE = 0.5) years, being 64.7% individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Positive correlations were observed between leptin concentration and metabolic risk factors, and leptin concentration was higher in individuals with MetS compared to those without MetS. The expression of 15 circulating miRNAs was negatively correlated with leptin concentration. GLMs showed negative associations between miRNAs (miR-15a, miR-16, miR-223, miR-363, miR-532), leptin, and/or SIS values; and only miR-21 showed positive association with SIS values. The results suggest the presence of peripheral leptin resistance associated with low-grade inflammation and plasma expression of miRNAs in older adults. These findings suggest the potential role of miRNAs as biomarkers for cardiometabolic risk.

The Influence of Whey Protein on Muscle Strength, Glycemic Control and Functional Tasks in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Resistance Exercise Program: Randomized and Triple Blind Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of whey protein (WP) supplementation associated with resistance training (RT) on glycemic control, functional tasks, muscle strength, and body composition in older adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Secondly, to evaluate the safety of the protocol for renal function. METHODS: The population comprised twenty-six older men living with T2DM (68.5 ± 11.5 years old). The participants were randomly assigned to the Protein Group (PG) and the Control Group (CG). The handgrip test and evolution of exercise loads, according to the Omni Resistance Exercise Scale, evaluated muscle strength. Functional tasks were assessed by force platform in three different protocols: Sit-to-Stand, Step/Quick Turn, and Step Up/Over. Body composition was evaluated by bioimpedance and glycemic control and renal function were assessed by biochemical analyses. Both groups performed RT for 12 weeks, twice a week, prioritizing large muscle groups. Protein supplementation was 20 g of whey protein isolate and the CG was supplemented with an isocaloric drink, containing 20 g of maltodextrin. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in muscle strength, according to the evolution of the exercise loads, but it was not confirmed in the handgrip test. However, there was no significant difference between the groups, regarding performance in functional tasks, glycemic control, or body composition. Renal function showed no alteration. CONCLUSION: The intake of 20 g of WP in older male adults living with T2DM did not increase the effect of RT on muscle strength, functional tasks, and glycemic control. The intervention was proven safe regarding renal function.

Dietary inadequacies overestimate the blood deficiencies of magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, and D among residents of Sao Paulo.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: We aimed to estimate the prevalence of the inadequate intake and status of magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, and D and identify factors associated with micronutrient deficiency in serum/plasma among residents of São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: Data from 824 individuals aged ≥14 years were obtained from the 2015 ISA-Nutrition, a population-based, cross-sectional survey. Dietary and supplement intakes were assessed using two 24-h dietary recalls, and the micronutrient inadequacies were estimated using the National Cancer Institute method. Micronutrient status was measured in serum or plasma, and deficiency was established according to the lower limit of the reference values. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to identify the effect of intake on the micronutrient status in serum/plasma. Logistic regression analysis was applied to assess the association between micronutrient status and individual characteristics. RESULTS: More than 80% of the population had an inadequate dietary intake of magnesium, vitamin E, and vitamin D. Males had a high prevalence of inadequate dietary intake of vitamin A and zinc. A high-to-moderate prevalence of inadequate vitamin C intake was observed. Vitamin D was the only nutrient with a deficient status comparable to its dietary inadequacy. The other nutrients demonstrated a lower deficiency prevalence compared to dietary inadequacy, and vitamin A demonstrated the lowest prevalence of deficiency in plasma. Generally, dietary intake showed a non-notable association with micronutrient deficiency in serum/plasma. Individuals with fasting glucose concentrations ≥100 mg/dL and those using diuretic drugs had a higher risk of serum magnesium deficiency. Those using lipid-lowering drugs and those with high plasma adiponectin concentrations had a higher risk of serum zinc deficiency. Individuals who smoked and those with hypertension showed a higher risk of plasma vitamin C deficiency. Individuals with average leptin concentrations had a higher risk of plasma vitamin E deficiency. Finally, those with sufficient leisure-time physical activity had a lower risk of serum vitamin D deficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Residents of the urban areas of São Paulo demonstrated substantially inadequate intakes of most of the assessed micronutrients; however, micronutrient deficiency in serum/plasma was not associated with dietary inadequacy, and it usually demonstrated a lower prevalence than dietary indicators. Thus, using micronutrient intake to determine the serum/plasma profile should be done with caution. The status of the micronutrients varied according to individual characteristics, indicating the interplay of complex mechanisms underlying micronutrient balance.

Plasma Concentration of Essential and Toxic Trace Elements After Brazil Nut Intake: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Brazil nut (BN) is a good source of essential nutrients, but little is known about the content of other components, such as toxic elements. Moreover, the high consumption of BN could probably contribute to increased levels of toxic and essential elements in the blood. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the concentration of essential and toxic trace elements in BN and their concentration in plasma of obese women after regular intake of BN. A randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out with 55 subjects that were randomly assigned to either the Brazil nut group (BN) (n = 29) or the control group (CO) (n = 26) and followed up for 2 months. The BN group consumed one unit of Brazil nut per day, and the CO group did not receive any intervention. The concentration of essential elements (zinc, copper, manganese, and cobalt) and toxic (barium, lead, and cadmium) in BN samples and plasma of obese women (before and after the intervention) were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Barium followed by copper, and manganese were the trace elements present in higher amounts in Brazil nuts. After the BN intervention period was observed an increase in plasma cadmium (p = 0.002) and a reduction of plasma manganese (p < 0.001) levels. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the regular consumption of BN from the Brazilian Amazon rainforest contributes to the intake of essential trace elements and can be considered safe regarding the content of heavy metals.

Relationship Between the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism rs11558471 in the SLC30A8/ZnT8 Gene and Cardiometabolic Markers in Postmenopausal Women.

Postmenopausal women have more risk factors for metabolic syndrome, and genetic alterations in SLC30A8 (zinc transporter 8 [ZnT8]) are directly related to these factors. Our aim was to assess the relationship of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs11558471 in the SLC30A8/ZnT8 gene with cardiometabolic markers in postmenopausal women. This cross-sectional study included 53 postmenopausal women divided into two groups according to the SNP genotype (AG + GG [n = 25] and AA [n = 28]). Anthropometric, dietary, and biochemical (glycemic, lipidic, hepatic, renal, and hormonal markers) variables were evaluated and compared between groups. No differences in glycemic, hepatic, renal, and hormonal markers were found between groups. However, the group with the polymorphic allele (AG + GG) had a better lipid profile than non-carriers (total cholesterol, p = 0.041; low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-c], p = 0.035; non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [non-HDL-c], p = 0.043). Logistic regression showed that the group with polymorphic allele had lower chances of increasing levels of LDL-c (odds ratio [OR] = 0.225, p = 0.012) and non-HDL-c (OR = 0.316, p = 0.045). After adjusting for age, body mass index, physical activity, and use of diabetes and dyslipidemia drugs, only LDL-c remained associated (OR = 0.218; p = 0.017). The variant allele of SNP rs11558471 in the SLC30A8 gene was associated with better LDL-c levels, which helps reduce the risks for cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women.