Influence of sex on cytokines, heat shock protein and oxidative stress markers in response to an acute total body resistance exercise protocol.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of sex on changes in cytokines, heat shock proteins (HSPs), and oxidative stress in response to a single bout of total body resistance exercise. METHODS: Sixteen healthy volunteers (8 men and 8 women), active and recreationally trained in resistance exercise, were subjected to a single bout of total body resistance exercise (3 × 8-10 repetition maximum, 10 exercises, rests periods of 90-120 seconds). Serum creatine kinase (CK), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, HSP60, HSP70, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and reduced glutathione were assessed at pre-protocol, and 1 hour, 4 hours, and 24 hours post-protocol. RESULTS: Both men and women had a similar increase in CK (p < 0.05) activity at 24 hours post-exercise. Significant sex differences were observed for IL-6. In the men, an increase from baseline was noted at 1 hour for IL-6. In women, an increase from baseline was noted at 4 hours only for IL-6. There was a significant correlation between peak IL-6 blood level and CK level at 24 hours only in the women. No significant changes were observed in IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, HSP60, HSP70, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, and reduced glutathione. CONCLUSION: Acute total body resistance exercise altered circulating levels of IL-6 and sex differences existed in the temporal pattern and magnitude of this response.

Benfotiamine Supplementation Increases Thiamine in Muscle of Endurance-Trained Mice and Affects the Energy Metabolism.

Background: Benfotiamine, a synthetic analog of thiamine, offers greater bioavailability compared to other thiamine salts and increases thiamine stores upon oral intake. Thiamine is essential for energy metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of oral benfotiamine supplementation on energy metabolism, particularly the Krebs cycle function, in the muscle of endurance-trained mice, and to assess its impact on endurance performance. Methods: Twenty-five mice were randomly assigned to four groups: a standard diet with sedentary behavior (Sta-Sed), a benfotiamine-supplemented diet with sedentary behavior (Ben-Sed), a standard diet with swimming training (Sta-Tr), and a benfotiamine-supplemented diet with swimming training (Ben-Tr). The trained groups underwent five weekly swimming sessions for six weeks, followed by an exhaustive test. Thiamine and its esters were measured in erythrocytes and gastrocnemius muscle. Gene expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDHa) and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (OGDH), along with levels of pyruvic, lactic, and hydroxybutyric acids in muscle, was analyzed. Results: The benfotiamine-supplemented groups had higher thiamine levels in erythrocytes and muscles compared to the standard-diet groups. No differences were observed in PDHa and OGDH gene expression. The Ben-Tr group exhibited increased muscle lactic acid levels and a higher lactic acid to pyruvic acid ratio compared to the sedentary groups. Hydroxybutyric acid levels were also elevated in the Ben-Tr group. No significant differences in exhaustive test duration were found between the groups. Conclusion: Benfotiamine supplementation increases thiamine levels in erythrocytes and muscle but does not affect the gene expression of thiamine-dependent enzymes. Although it alters energy metabolism in trained muscle, it does not enhance endurance performance in mice.

Intestinal permeability and nutritional status in developmental disorders.

CONTEXT: Autism is a developmental disorder with a possible connection between dietary components and triggering or worsening of symptoms. An altered intestinal permeability might allow absorption of incompletely digested peptides (gluten and casein) that could produce opioid-like activity on the brain, causing significant changes in behavior. OBJECTIVE: To assess the intestinal permeability and nutritional status of participants with developmental disorders to determine if changes in the intestinal mucosal barrier and/or injury to the intercellular junctions have occurred that might justify application of further dietary modifications. DESIGN: To assess intestinal permeability, the research team analyzed participants urine under fasting conditions, using gas chromatography to determine chromatographic peaks. To assess nutritional status, the team determined participants heights and weights and performed a bioelectric bioimpedance examination at least 4 hours after their most recent meal. In addition, the team determined food intake using three diet diaries. They asked participants and caregivers to register each food consumed during 2 nonconsecutive weekdays and 1 weekend day. SETTING: The study occurred at the Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, Sao Paulo University. PARTICIPANTS: Seven participants aged 9 to 23 years with developmental disorders (the developmental group, DG) completed the study. The research team recruited them through the Association of Friends of the Autistic Persons of Ribeirao Preto in Ribeirao Preto, Brazil. The control group (CG) consisted of nonsmoking healthy volunteers in the general population who were similar in age to the experimental group and did not suffer from diseases that potentially could influence nutritional status and intestinal function. INTERVENTION: To assess intestinal permeability, participants ingested 150 mL of an isosmolar solution of the sugars mannitol (2 g) and lactulose (7.5 g) under fasting conditions and the researchers collected all voided urine over a period of 5 hours. OUTCOME MEASURES: Using chromatographic peaks, the research team quantified the mannitol and lactulose in participants urine by calculating the percentage excreted in relation to the ingested amounts of sugar. This calculation gave them the lactulose-to-mannitol ratio (L/M). To evaluate nutritional status, they used data regarding bioimpedance resistance, heights, and weights to estimate lean mass and body water (in liters). They classified adults and adolescents using the body mass index (BMI). For children (2-10 y), they classified participants height-to-age and weight-to-height ratios. The research team used food intake to examine the macronutrient interval, the mean added sugar consumption, and the quantity of protein, in g/kg weight. RESULTS: Participants with developmental disorders (n = 7) were more likely to be overweight. Their usual diet revealed a high intake of lipids (%) and proteins (g/kg) (compared to reference values) and a high intake of calories (kcal) and carbohydrates (%) (compared to CG) as well as a high intake of food sources that are important contributors of casein and gluten. The DGs (n = 7) mean mannitol excretion was lower, and their L/M higher than the CGs (n = 7) (P < .05). Their increased L/M may indicate atrophy of the intestinal-mucosa surface and/or injury to the intercellular junctions or the effect of some other abnormality. The small number of participants, however, prevented more complex statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Researchers need to complete additional studies to confirm the existence of abnormalities in autistic individuals intestines and to justify the use of dietary restrictions on gluten and casein to improve the symptoms of autism.

Benfotiamine protects against hypothalamic dysfunction in a STZ-induced model of neurodegeneration in rats.

The neurodegeneration of Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects not only brain structures associate with cognition early in the progression of the disease, but other areas such as the hypothalamus, a region involved in the control of metabolism and appetite. In this context, we evaluated the effects of benfotiamine (BFT), a vitamin B1 analog that is being proposed as a therapeutical approach for AD-related cognitive alterations, which were induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ). In addition to the already described effect of STZ on cognition, we show that this drug also causes metabolic changes which are linked to changes in hypothalamic insulin signaling and orexigenic and anorexigenic circuitries, as well as a decreased cellular integrated stress response. As expected, the supplementation with 150 mg/kg of BFT for 30 days increased blood concentrations of thiamine and its phosphate esters. This led to the prevention of body weight and fat loss in STZ-ICV-treated animals. In addition, we also found an improvement in food consumption, despite hypothalamic gene expression linked to anorexia after STZ exposure. Additionally, decreased apoptosis signaling was observed in the hypothalamus. In in vitro experiments, we noticed a high ability of BFT to increase insulin sensitivity in hypothalamic neurons. Furthermore, we also observed that BFT decreases the mitochondrial unfolded stress response damage by preventing the loss of HSP60 and reversed the mitochondria dysfunction caused by STZ. Taken together, these results suggest that benfotiamine treatment is a potential therapeutic approach in the treatment of hypothalamic dysfunction and metabolic disturbances associated with sporadic AD.

Effect of RYGB on Oxidative Stress in Adults: a 6-Year Follow-up Study.

BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is effective for weight loss but may have long-term effects on markers of oxidative stress (OS). The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of bariatric surgery with RYGB on OS blood markers in a 72-month period after surgery. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 20 patients before and after RYGB (months M0, M6, M12, M24, and M72) compared with a control group of 35 adults assessed only once. RESULTS: The body mass index (BMI) (45.71 ± 6.97 kg/m2) decreased by 38% from M0 to M24 (17.51 ± 5.50 kg/m2, p < 0.001), followed by a 12% increase from M24 to M72 (p < 0.001). Serum concentrations of vitamin E (adjusted for total cholesterol and triglycerides) and vitamin C increased throughout the study (p < 0.001). ß-carotene levels decreased progressively through to M72 (p = 0.008). Reduced glutathione (GSH) content and catalase (CAT) activity decreased at M6, M12, and M24, but no differences were found at M72 compared with M0. Concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were lower M12 and M24 in comparison with baseline values (p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively) but were similar to baseline values at 72 months (p = 0.114). CONCLUSIONS: GSH content, TBARS concentrations, and CAT activity returned to baseline values 72 months after RYGB, indicating the persistence of systemic OS, possibly attributable to weight regain and/or changes in the antioxidant defenses, such as the reduction in ß-carotene levels.

Application of physical exercise therapies in breast cancer survivors and their effects on the inflammatory profile: A narrative review.

BACKGROUND: One of the adverse effects of cancer treatments is the exacerbation of inflammation, which generates numerous limitations and contributes to the development of several comorbidities and the recurrence of cancer itself. Physical exercise (PE) has been proposed as an efficient complementary strategy to combat the inflammatory effects of oncological treatments and to prevent the development of comorbidities, but its adequate application in breast cancer survivors (BCS) requires the establishment of consensuses and practical recommendations. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to review the randomized controlled trials that evaluated the influence of PE in the inflammatory profile of BCS. METHODS: The search for articles published between 1999 and 2020 was done in PsycINFO, PubMed, Cochrane, Science Direct, and Scopus databases. RESULTS: Current knowledge reveals the effectiveness of PE in the functional independence and health of BCS. Evidence of the capacity of PE to improve the inflammatory profile and the immune response in BCS has also been described. However, the heterogeneity of the studies regarding structural training variables, types of exercise, stages of intervention, and severity of the disease, still do not allow the establishment of precise guidelines for the prescription and progression of exercise to improve the inflammatory process in BCS. DISCUSSION: . This review suggests a possible strategy to be used in the assessment, training prescription, and rehabilitation of BCS, to support the development of new studies and the work of exercise professionals in the prescription and application of physical training to improve health and inflammatory status in BCS.

Oral benfotiamine reverts cognitive deficit and increase thiamine diphosphate levels in the brain of a rat model of neurodegeneration.

It is well known that patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) have imbalances in blood thiamine concentrations and lower activity of thiamine-dependent enzymes. Benfotiamine, a more bioavailable thiamine analog, has been proposed as an alternative to counteract these changes related to thiamine metabolism. Thus, our study aimed to analyze the effects of benfotiamine supplementation on brain thiamine absorption, as well as on parameters related to neuronal energy metabolism and disease progression in an experimental model of sporadic AD induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in rats. The supplementation with 150 mg/kg of benfotiamine for 30 days increased the concentrations of thiamine diphosphate in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. This led to an improvement in mitochondria enzymes and insulin signaling pathway, with inactivation of GSK3α/ß and ERK1/2, which are two tau-kinases related to the progression of AD, which could decrease tau hyperphosphorylation and apoptosis signaling. Besides, we observed an increased amount of Glun2b subunit of NMDA receptors, decreased inflammation, and improvement of cognitive deficit. Together, these results suggest that benfotiamine could be a potential therapeutic approach in the treatment of sporadic AD.

Relationship between oropharyngeal dysphagia, nutritional status, antioxidant vitamins and the inflammatory response in adults and elderly: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND & AIM: Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) can lead to a deficiency of antioxidant micronutrients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relation between OD and nutritional status, antioxidant vitamins (ß-carotene, vitamin E and C) and serum markers of the inflammatory response [C-reactive protein, myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide metabolites (NOx), tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-6] in adults and elderly. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 69 individuals: 22 in the control group (CG) and 47 in the OD group (ODG). The ODG was subdivided into ODG-mild = normal oral feeding (OF, n = 14), ODG-moderate (OF-modified, n = 22) and ODG-severe (OF-suspended, n = 11). Associations were investigated using multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The body mass index (BMI) was higher in the ODG compared to the CG (p = 0.008), independently of sex, age, energy intake (EI) and score on the Functional Independence Measure. BMI was significantly lower in the ODG-severe compared to the ODG-mild (p = 0.012). OD was associated with lower concentrations of ß-carotene (p < 0.001) and vitamin C (p < 0.001), independently of sex, age and EI, and higher concentrations of MPO (p = 0.008) and NOx (p = 0.011), independently of sex, age and the presence of comorbidities. CONCLUSION: Adults and elderly with OD have lower levels of antioxidant vitamins (ß-carotene and vitamin C) and a high inflammatory response (MPO and NOx). The evaluation of antioxidant vitamins could be incorporated in nutritional status assessment in this population.

Effects of creatine supplementation on homocysteine levels and lipid peroxidation in rats.

Hyperhomocysteinaemia is an independent risk factor for CVD. Recent data show a relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) and free radical formation. Since creatine synthesis is responsible for most of the methyl group transfers that result in Hcy formation, creatine supplementation might inhibit Hcy production and reduce free radical formation. The present study investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on Hcy levels and lipid peroxidation biomarkers. Thirty rats were divided into three groups: control group; diet with creatine group (DCr; 2 % creatine in the diet for 28 d); creatine overload plus diet with creatine group (CrO + D; 5 g creatine/kg by oral administration for 5 d+2 % in the diet for 23 d). Plasma Hcy was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in DCr (7.5 (sd 1.2) micromol/l) and CrO + D (7.2 (sd 1.7) micromol/l) groups compared with the control group (12.4 (sd 2.2) micromol/l). Both plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) (control, 10 (sd 3.4); DCr, 4.9 (sd 0.7); CrO + D, 2.4 (sd 1) micromol/l) and plasma total glutathione (control, 4.3 (sd 1.9); DCr, 2.5 (sd 0.8); CrO + D, 1.8 (sd 0.5) micromol/l) were lower in the groups that received creatine (P < 0.05). In addition, Hcy showed significant negative correlation (P < 0.05) with plasma creatine (r - 0.61) and positive correlation with plasma TBARS (r 0.74). Plasma creatine was negatively correlated with plasma TBARS (r - 0.75) and total peroxide (r - 0.40). We conclude that creatine supplementation reduces plasma Hcy levels and lipid peroxidation biomarkers, suggesting a protective role against oxidative damage. Modulating Hcy formation may, however, influence glutathione synthesis and thereby affect the redox state of the cells.

Effects of a low-protein diet on plasma amino acid and homocysteine levels and oxidative status in rats.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Transmethylation reactions and antioxidant metabolism are linked by transsulfuration, where homocysteine (Hcy) is converted to cysteine and reduced glutathione (GSH). Low protein intake can modulate the balance of this metabolic reaction. The aim of the present investigation was to study the effect of a low-protein diet on Hcy metabolism by monitoring levels of the amino acids involved in these pathways, and relating these levels to GSH levels and lipid peroxidation in rats. METHODS: Sixteen rats were divided into 2 groups: control (C; standard AIN-93 diet, 20% protein) and low-protein diet (LPD; 8% protein diet). Rats in both groups were placed on the diets for 28 days. RESULTS: A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in plasma Hcy concentration was found in LPD rats (0.16 +/- 0.04 micromol/mg protein) versus C rats (0.25 +/- 0.03 micromol/mg protein). Methionine levels were not significantly different between the 2 groups (C: 1.24 +/- 0.22 micromol/mg protein; LPD: 1.03 +/- 0.27 micromol/mg protein). A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in hepatic GSH concentrations (C: 44 +/- 10 micromol/mg protein; LPD: 17.4 +/- 4.3 micromol/mg protein) was accompanied by an increase in lipid peroxidation (C: 0.13 +/- 0.01 micromol/mg protein; LPD: 0.17 +/- 0.02 micromol/mg protein; r = -0.62, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Hcy levels were reduced under a low-protein diet, resulting in modulated methyl balance and reduced GSH formation leading to increased susceptibility of hepatic cells to oxidative events.

Benfotiamine supplementation prevents oxidative stress in anterior tibialis muscle and heart.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of oral supplementation with benfotiamine on oxidative stress in the liver, heart and muscles of endurance-trained mice. METHODS: Twenty-five male BALB/c mice were allocated to the following treatment groups: standard diet and sedentary activity (Sta-Sed), benfotiamine-supplemented diet and sedentary activity (Ben-Sed), standard diet and training activity (Sta-Tr) and benfotiamine-supplemented diet and training activity (Ben-Tr). The training comprised 6 weeks of endurance swimming training. The concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonylated proteins, total thiols and non-protein thiols was analyzed in the liver, heart and tibialis anterior muscle. RESULTS: In the muscle, TBARS concentration in the Sta-Sed group was higher than that in other groups; in the heart, TBARS concentration in the Sta-Sed and Ben-Tr groups was higher than that in the Ben-Sed group. The carbonyl content of the muscle tissues was higher in the Sta-Sed group than in both supplemented groups. In liver, the carbonyl content was lower in the Ben-Sed group than in the Sta-Sed group. The level of total thiols was lower in the Ben-Sed group than in the Sta-Tr group. In the heart, the level of total thiols was higher in the Ben-Sed group than in the Ben-Tr group. The concentration of non-protein thiols in the muscle was higher in the Ben-Sed group than in the Ben-Tr group, whereas in the heart, concentration of non-protein thiols of Sta-Tr group was lower than that of Sta-Sed group. CONCLUSION: The results show that benfotiamine is an efficient antioxidant for the anterior tibialis muscle and heart; however, swimming training did not alter redox status.

Vitamin C Status in Hospitalized Adults According to Subjective Global Assessment Method.

BACKGROUND: The subjective global assessment (SGA) is a powerful tool for nutrition status assessment. Our aim was to compare vitamin C serum levels among patients classified as A, B, or C in the SGA. METHODS: One hundred-and-fifty adults in the wards of the University Hospital participated in this study. Besides SGA, all cases were submitted to anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and 24-hour dietary recall. Laboratory data included blood hemoglobin, serum ferritin, serum albumin, transferrin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and vitamin C. Acute phase response was defined by serum CRP > 0.5 mg/dL; low serum vitamin C was defined by serum levels < 0.4 mg/dL. Analysis of variance and χ2 tests were used to compare groups; P < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Patients were diagnosed as SGA A (n = 76), B (n = 38), or C (n = 36) and showed different anthropometry and BIA. The same occurred, respectively, with vitamin C (median; range, in mg/day) intake (55.0; 4.7-140.6 vs 34.0; 10.3-244.2 vs 15.8; 2.3-124.0) and high (%) CRP (88.3 vs 65.8 vs 48.7) and low (%) vitamin C serum levels (21.1 vs 34.2 vs 63.9). CONCLUSION: Patients with worst nutrition parameters (SGA C) showed lower ascorbic acid serum levels than those classified as SGA A or B. These results are in accordance with reduced vitamin C intake and the presence of acute phase response.

Correlation Between First Morning Single Void and 24-Hour Urines: The Reliability to Quantify Niacin Status.

BACKGROUND The current common practice when using urine as a biomarker for vitamin excretion is to use a 24-hour sample for analysis. Due to the difficulty involved in this process, we attempted to find an alternative solution through the use of a single first morning void. The aim of our study was to investigate if there is a correlation between the first morning single void and the 24-hour collections of urines for the urine metabolite of niacin, N-1-methylnicotinamide (N1MN), and to test the reliability of utilizing a method using first morning single void collections corrected with the concentration of urine creatinine. MATERIAL AND METHODS All urine samples were collected from 30 healthy adult volunteers over the age of 18 years: 20 females and 10 males. Samples were collected after discarding the first morning urine and collecting every other urine voided during the next 24 hours including the first morning urine of the day after in 2 separate vessels. We analyzed the concentration of N1MN by high performance liquid chromatography and the concentration of creatinine by a commercial kit by spectrophotometry. The B3 excretion was expressed as the ratio of N1MN to creatinine. RESULTS We found a significant correlation between the ratios of first morning single void and 24-hour urines. When comparing males and females, the ratio demonstrated a significant correlation as well. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that it is possible to substitute a 24-hour collection with a first morning single void urine for the estimation of N1MN excretion.

Effects of intermittent fasting and chronic swimming exercise on body composition and lipid metabolism.

Intermittent fasting protocol (IFP) has been suggested as a strategy to change body metabolism and improve health. The effects of IFP seem to be similar to aerobic exercise, having a hormetic adaptation according to intensity and frequency. However, the effects of combining both interventions are still unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of IFP with and without endurance-exercise training on body composition, food behavior, and lipid metabolism. Twenty-week-old Wistar rats were kept under an inverted circadian cycle of 12 h with water ad libitum and assigned to 4 different groups: control group (ad libitum feeding and sedentary), exercise group (ad libitum feeding and endurance training), intermittent fasting group (IF; intermittent fasting and sedentary), and intermittent fasting and exercise group (IFEX; intermittent fasting and endurance training). After 6 weeks, the body weight of IF and IFEX animals decreased without changes in food consumption. Yet, the body composition between the 2 groups was different, with the IFEX animals containing higher total protein and lower total fat content than the IF animals. The IFEX group also showed increases in total high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and increased intramuscular lipid content. The amount of brown adipose tissue was higher in IF and IFEX groups; however, the IFEX group showed higher expression levels of uncoupling protein 1 in this tissue, indicating a greater thermogenesis. The IFP combined with endurance training is an efficient method for decreasing body mass and altering fat metabolism, without inflicting losses in protein content.

Protective effect of treatment with thiamine or benfotiamine on liver oxidative damage in rat model of acute ethanol intoxication.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate possible beneficial effects of treatment with thiamine or benfotiamine in an animal model of acute ethanol intoxication. MAIN METHODS: Thirty male Wistar rats were separated at random into three groups of 10 animals each: Ethanol (E), Ethanol treated with thiamine (T) and Ethanol treated with benfotiamine (BE). Rats were gavaged with single dose of ethanol (5g/kg, 40% v:v). After 30min of ethanol gavage the animals were treated with thiamine or benfotiamine. Six hours after first gavage, the animals were euthanized and blood and liver samples were collected for ethanol and oxidative stress biomarkers quantification. KEY FINDINGS: Serum ethanol levels were higher in animals treated with thiamine or benfotiamine while hepatic alcohol levels were higher in animals of the group treated with benfotiamine comparing to controls or thiamine treated groups. The lipid peroxidation biomarkers were diminished for the groups treated with thiamine or benfotiamine comparing to E animals. Concerning protein oxidative damage parameters, they were enhanced for animals treated with benfotiamine in relation to other groups. SIGNIFICANCE: In conclusion, the treatment with thiamine or benfotiamine even 30min after the massive dose of ethanol has proven to be beneficial against liver damage. Improved results were obtained with benfotiamine in relation to oxidative damage from aqueous compartments.

Niacin metabolism and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activation in malnourished patients with flaky paint dermatosis.

Flaky paint dermatosis, characterized by extensive, often bilateral areas of flaking and pigmentation, mostly in sun unexposed areas is considered a feature of kwashiorkor in both children and adults, and must be differentiated from other dermatosis, including chapped and xerotica skin, and pellagra. In this case series we provide evidence that malnourished patients with flaky paint dermatosis and infection/inflammation shown laboratory data suggestive of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activation, besides decreased urinary excretion of N1-methylnicotinamide (N1 MN), a marker of pellagra. We study nine adult patients showing flaky paint dermatosis and clinical features of infection or inflammation, and increased serum C-reactive protein, characteristic of the presence of acute phase response syndrome. As a group, they had low or deficient urinary N1 MN excretion (0.52 ± 0.39 mg/g creatinine) compatible with pellagra. They also showed low serum tryptophan levels (<29 µmol/L) and a serum kynurenine/tryptophan ratio higher than 0.04, suggesting increased IDO expression and increase in the tryptophan oxidation. Findings suggest that some patients with flaky paint dermatosis showed laboratory data suggestive of IDO activation, besides decreased N1 MN urinary excretion. Taken together, the data support the idea that flaky paint dermatosis could be a skin manifestation of niacin deficiency.

The influence of the obstetrical condition on canine neonatal pulmonary functional competence.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the influence of the obstetrical condition on neonatal respiratory performance, to estimate surfactant synthesis through lecithin and sphingomyelin ratio (L/S) in amniotic fluid of pregnant bitches and correlate the L/S with the respiratory condition during the first hour of life. DESIGN: Prospective randomized study. SETTING: University veterinary teaching hospital and private referral centers. ANIMALS: In accordance to the condition at birth, puppies from 25 healthy bitches aged 2-6 years were allocated into: Eutocia Group--EUT (n = 19 neonates and 14 bitches); Dystocia Group--DYS (n = 8 neonates and 5 bitches) and Elective Cesarean Section Group--CS (n = 12 neonates and 11 bitches). INTERVENTIONS: Amniotic fluid was drawn from amniotic sac and lecithin (L) and sphingomyelin (S) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography to obtain the L/S ratio. Neonatal physical examination was performed at 1, 5, and 60 minutes after delivery, and included the assessment of respiratory rate (RR) and respiration effort (RE). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: CS group had significantly lower amniotic L/S ratio when compared to EUT and DYS. There were no significant differences between vaginal groups (EUT versus DYS) in respect to L/S ratios. RE of eutocic neonates improved promptly, while RE of DYS and CS groups improved only 1 hour following birth. Moreover, amniotic L/S ratio positively correlated with RR after 60 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: We identified a possible influence of the delivery method on the final surfactant maturation process. Thus, neonates born by elective CS prior to the onset of expulsive uterine contractions should have their respiratory parameters carefully monitored. Additionally, we propose that assessment of respiratory parameters 1 hour following birth can serve as a practical means to indirectly estimate pulmonary maturation (ie, surfactant synthesis) in puppies.

Quantificação de compostos antioxidantes em frutos in natura e polpa congelada / Quantification of antioxidant compounds in fresh and frozen fruits pulp

Objetivo ­ O presente estudo teve como objetivo a dosagem de vitamina C, fenólicos totais e antocianinas, em frutas, para a verificação e possíveis perdas em frutas in-natura e polpa congelada. A ingestão diária de frutos e frutas assegura uma dieta rica em compostos bioativos, no entanto, as concentrações destes alimentos podem apresentar-se diferentes depois do processamento, no caso o congelamento, comparando-o com o fruto in natura. Métodos ­ Frutas obtidas no comercio local, nas variedades: ameixa, caqui, goiaba, maçã, pêra, uvas verde e vermelha foram utilizadas para as dosagens in natura e depois de 8 semanas de congelamento. Foram dosadas vitamina C, fenólicos totais, e antocianinas, sendo que foram feitas em triplicata. Os dados foram analisados por teste t considerando significativo p<0,05. Resultados ­ Foi observada diminuição significativa em quantidades de vitamina C, compostos fenólicos e antocianinas em todas as frutas analisadas. A pêra mostrou-se a fruta mais afetada pelo processo de congelamento, apresentando a maior perda em todas as dosagens dos antioxidantes, diminuindo 50,9% em vitamina C, 96,2% em antocianinas e 60,2% em fenólicos totais. Já a goiaba foi a fruta que se mostrou mais resistente ao congelamento, apresentando a menor diminuição em todas as dosagens de antioxidantes, com perda de 9,5% de vitamina C, 9,7 de fenólicos totais, e 25,7% de antocianinas. Em concentrações de vitamina C, maçã teve diminuição de 36,6%, ameixa de 42,9%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 22,6%, uva vermelha 47% e sementes de goiaba 27,6%. Já nas concentrações de fenólicos totais maçã teve diminuição de 11,2%, ameixa de 24,7%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 48,5%, uva vermelha 46,6%% e sementes de goiaba 30,1%. Quanto as antocianinas maçã apresentou diminuição de 91,9%, ameixa de 81,1%, caqui 35,8%, uva verde 51,4%, uva vermelha 57,1%% e sementes de goiaba 32,4%. Conclusões ­ Desta maneira fica evidente a perda, diferenciada entre as frutas, de compostos antioxidantes com o processamento

Objetivo ­ O presente estudo teve como objetivo a dosagem de vitamina C, fenólicos totais e antocianinas, em frutas, para a verificação e possíveis perdas em frutas in-natura e polpa congelada. A ingestão diária de frutos e frutas assegura uma dieta rica em compostos bioativos, no entanto, as concentrações destes alimentos podem apresentar-se diferentes depois do processamento, no caso o congelamento, comparando-o com o fruto in natura. Métodos ­ Frutas obtidas no comercio local, nas variedades: ameixa, caqui, goiaba, maçã, pêra, uvas verde e vermelha foram utilizadas para as dosagens in natura e depois de 8 semanas de congelamento. Foram dosadas vitamina C, fenólicos totais, e antocianinas, sendo que foram feitas em triplicata. Os dados foram analisados por teste t considerando significativo p<0,05. Resultados ­ Foi observada diminuição significativa em quantidades de vitamina C, compostos fenólicos e antocianinas em todas as frutas analisadas. A pêra mostrou-se a fruta mais afetada pelo processo de congelamento, apresentando a maior perda em todas as dosagens dos antioxidantes, diminuindo 50,9% em vitamina C, 96,2% em antocianinas e 60,2% em fenólicos totais. Já a goiaba foi a fruta que se mostrou mais resistente ao congelamento, apresentando a menor diminuição em todas as dosagens de antioxidantes, com perda de 9,5% de vitamina C, 9,7 de fenólicos totais, e 25,7% de antocianinas. Em concentrações de vitamina C, maçã teve diminuição de 36,6%, ameixa de 42,9%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 22,6%, uva vermelha 47% e sementes de goiaba 27,6%. Já nas concentrações de fenólicos totais maçã teve diminuição de 11,2%, ameixa de 24,7%, caqui 26,9%, uva verde 48,5%, uva vermelha 46,6%% e sementes de goiaba 30,1%. Quanto as antocianinas maçã apresentou diminuição de 91,9%, ameixa de 81,1%, caqui 35,8%, uva verde 51,4%, uva vermelha 57,1%% e sementes de goiaba 32,4%. Conclusões ­ Desta maneira fica evidente a perda, diferenciada entre as frutas, de compostos antioxidantes com o processamento

Objective ­ The present study had the objective of the dosage of vitamin C, total phenolics and anthocyanins, in fruits, for the verification and possible losses in in natura fruits and frozen pulp. The daily intake of fruits and fruits ensures a diet rich in elements that contribute to the antioxidant capacity. However, the concentrations of these foods may be different after processing, in this case the freezing, comparing it with the in natura fruit. Methods ­ Fruits obtained in the local commerce, in the varieties: plum, kaki, guava, apple, pear, green and red grapes were used for the in natura dosages and after 8 weeks of freezing. The laboratorial determinations were Vitamin C, total phenolics and anthocyanins. All dosages were standardized in triplicate. Data were analyzed by t-test considering significant p <0.05. Results ­ Significant decrease was observed in amounts of vitamin C, phenolic compounds and anthocyanins in all fruits analyzed. The pear was the fruit most affected by the freezing process, presenting the highest loss in all antioxidant dosages, decreasing 50.9% in vitamin C, 96.2% in anthocyanins and 60.2% in total phenolics. The guava fruit was the most resistant to freezing, presenting the lowest decrease in all antioxidant dosages, with loss of 9.5% of vitamin C, 9.7 of total phenolics, and 25.7% of anthocyanins. In vitamin C concentrations, apple had a decrease of 36.6%, plum of 42.9%, persimmon 26.9%, green grape 22.6%, red grape 47% and guava seeds 27.6%. In the total phenolic concentrations, apple had a decrease of 11.2%, plum of 24.7%, persimmon 26.9%, green grape 48.5%, red grape 46.6 %% and guava seeds 30.1%. As for the anthocyanins apple showed a decrease of 91.9%, plum of 81.1%, persimmon 35.8%, green grape 51.4%, red grape 57.1 %% and guava seeds 32.4%. Conclusions ­ In this way the loss, differentiated between fruits, of antioxidant compounds with the processing

Liver, plasma and erythrocyte levels of thiamine and its phosphate esters in rats with acute ethanol intoxication: a comparison of thiamine and benfotiamine administration.

Thiamine and benfotiamine are vitamin B1 and pro-vitamin B1 substances, respectively. Vitamin B1 plays an essential role in energy metabolism, and its deficiency leads to neurologic and cardiovascular pathologies, as seen in alcoholics. This study presents new data about the effects of thiamine hydrochloride or benfotiamine treatment given to rats with acute alcohol intoxication, on the distribution of thiamine and its phosphate esters in liver, plasma and erythrocytes. The treatments were effective in increasing thiamine levels in plasma, erythrocytes and liver cells. The benfotiamine-treated group had its total plasma thiamine increased by 100%. In erythrocytes, thiamine levels were 4- and 25-fold higher in the groups treated with thiamine and benfotiamine, respectively, compared with the untreated groups. Liver thiamine was increased by 60% in the treated groups compared with the untreated groups. Thus, we verified the high bioavailability especially of benfotiamine within 6h of ethanol administration.

Lower carnitine plasma values from malnutrition cancer patients.

INTRODUCTION: Understanding the consequences of cancer for energy metabolism is required in order to define strategies that both prevent and treat malnutrition. Carnitine is essential for lipid energy metabolism. The objective of this study was to assess presurgical plasma carnitine levels in cancer patients and their association with dietary intake, anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance, indirect calorimetry, plasma amino acid levels, and urinary carnitine and nitrogen values. METHODS: This was a prospective study in which two groups were randomly selected: one consisting of esophageal and gastric cancer patients (n = 24) and the other of healthy volunteers (control group, n = 12). RESULTS: Average plasma and urinary carnitine values ranged from 60 to 80 µM and 78 to 124 µM, respectively, in both groups, with no significant difference between them. Moreover, methionine and lysine levels, as well as resting energy expenditure, did not differ between cancer patients and controls. Plasma free carnitine levels, however, were significantly lower in cancer patients, 80 % (p < 0.05) of whom had deficient urinary carnitine excretion, insufficient dietary protein intake, and low body fat reserves. CONCLUSION: Although cancer patients had carnitine deficiency and lower carnitine stores, these did not affect resting energy expenditure, total food intake, or plasma lysine and methionine levels.