Use of energy drinks and their impact on the body based on the view of student population

In recent years, studies have often been devoted to the frequent on frequency , motives and consequences of consuming energy drinks by the student population at universities. These studies have been common in many countries. The aim of this study was to identify the patterns of energy drink consumption among college students of the Serbian University of Belgrade and to understand the attitudes, motives and consequences of consuming these beverages. The result of this study indicates that energy drink consumption is a common practice among Serbian university students (72.0% use energy drinks and 1.1% consume them regularly). Out of the total number of surveyed students 12.9% consumed energy drinks with alcohol. The most frequent negative effects in students who had used energy drinks were: weight gain (24.2%), headaches (2.6%), thirst (18.9%) and hunger (11.6%). Many of the students surveyed (62.0%) cited that their main motive for using energy drinks was improving their academic capabilities, commonly used as a way to study longer and improve mental focus. But, 10.5% of the surveyed students felt the effect of increased concentration after using energy drinks. This indicated the students' confusion and disagreement between their motives for using energy drinks and the effects achieved. A large number of surveyed students (85.3%) did not check the composition of energy drinks before consumption. The results show that students need education in this regard. This research is part of a study called "Attitudes and Behavior of Students in relation to Food and Nutrition" and is a form of preventive action to combat the widespread use of energy drinks in the student population.

Allicin-rich garlic extract alleviates high-fat diet-induced complications in rats: A nutrigenomic study

The remedial effects of garlic in various metabolic complications have been attributed to a variety of organosulfur compounds such as allicin, diallyl sulfides, alliin and allyl trisulfides. The present study was designed to prepare an aqueous extract of garlic with stable allicin and its biological evaluation on tissue-specific nutrigenomic effects in the prevention of High-fat diet (HFD)-induced weight gain and related complications in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Aqueous Allicin-rich garlic extract (ARGE) was prepared and characterized for stability of allicin using HPLC. For biological evaluation, animals were fed with either normal pellet diet (NPD), HFD, HFD along with ARGE (1ml/kg p.o.) and ARGE per se (1ml/kg p.o.) for 16 weeks. Chronic administration of ARGE prevented HFD-induced weight gain, adipose tissue hypertrophy, insulin resistance and improved overall glucose homeostasis. Transcriptional analysis of different tissues highlighted that ARGE promoted browning, improved glucose metabolism and appetite regulation. Overall, this study presents ARGE as a potential nutraceutical for the prevention of obesity and related comorbidities.

Energy metabolism in the pancreas of ground squirrels (Spermophilus citellus) during prolonged cold exposure and in hibernation

Mammalian hibernators undergo a host of biochemical adaptations that allow them to survive the harsh cold environment and food restriction. Since the energy metabolism of the pancreas during hibernation remains unknown, we investigated the molecular basis of mitochondrial energy-producing pathways in line with their regulating mechanisms, as well as the (re)organization of antioxidative defence in the pancreas during the prehibernation period and in the hibernating state. To this end, male ground squirrels (Spermophilus citellus) were divided into two groups, the control group kept at room temperature (22±1 °C) and the group exposed to low temperature (4±1 °C). Active animals from the cold exposed group were sacrificed after 1, 3, 7, 12, and 21 days; animals that entered hibernation were sacrificed after 2-5 days of torpor. Our results showed that the protein levels of respiratory complexes I, II, IV and cytochrome c were increased in response to prolonged cold exposure (from day 12) and that such expression profiles were maintained during hibernation. In parallel, AMP-activated protein kinase a (AMPKa) and nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF-1) were shown to be upregulated. Moreover, prolonged cold exposure and hibernation induced an increase in the protein expression of antioxidative defence enzymes copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). In conclusion, these results point to a controlled metabolic remodeling in the pancreas of ground squirrels during prolonged cold exposure and in hibernation, which includes an improvement of mitochondrial oxidative capacity along with a proportional upregulation of antioxidative defence.

FADS1 genetic variant rs174547 as a molecular-genetic biomarker for CVD risk: A study from Bulgaria

The input of molecular genetic biomarkers allows individual assessment of metabolic pathways and the behaviour of the major enzymes responsible for nutrient conversion. This in turn enriches the nutrigenetic information fund, and the panels of well-studied gene variants and their interaction with nutrients can be used to create precise personalized diets. Our objective was to determine the significance of the rs174547 genetic variant in the fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) gene in the metabolism of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids ingested with food and to identify the potential of FADS1 rs174547 as a molecular genetic marker to be included in a panel of nutrigenetic studies in order to prepare a personalized diet plan. A total of 123 volunteers (43 men and 80 women) from Bulgaria, aged 28 to 65 years, were tested for rs174547 in the FADS1 gene. A DNA sample was taken from each volunteer by a non-invasive method (buccal swabs), and the genetic variant of each individual was determined by molecular genetic approaches. Their general health was assessed by taking anthropometric and body impedance measurements data and completing a lifestyle survey. The lipid profile included testing for triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, and blood sugar. Information on the total food intake was collected through questionnaire methods. The results of the statistical tests show that there is a statistically significant difference between the two genotypes only in HDL cholesterol levels (P = 0.044, at P < 0.05) - carriers of the C/T genotype have lower mean concentration values of HDL-cholesterol (1.27 mmol/l) than for T/T variant carriers (1.48 mmol/l). Among men, there were statistically significant differences in mean levels of total cholesterol (P = 0.012) and HDL cholesterol (P = 0.008) between the two genotypes. Among women, there was a statistically significant difference between the two genotypes only in terms of mean triglyceride levels (P = 0.007). The differences in the other studied indicators do not satisfy the criterion for significance (P < 0.05). The results suggest an effect of the intake of SFA (saturated fatty acids) and MUFA (monounsaturated fatty acids) on the relationship between rs174547 polymorphism and plasma lipids (total and LDL-cholesterol) only in men. Studies of the Bulgarian population prove extremely low intake of omega-3 fatty acids due to low consumption of fish. These findings and the lack of data for Bulgaria on genetic variants of FADS1 are a prerequisite for conducting in-depth studies of both risk groups, such as patients with cardiovascular disease, dyslipidaemia or nutritional deficiency of LC-PUFAs, and in healthy people.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperlipidemic properties of the spelt grass juice

Spelt is a grain rich in bioactive compounds - different phytochemicals, so it is often mentioned in the context of being beneficial to human health. We aimed to investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperlipidemic properties of the spelt grass juice. Twenty volunteers consumed a beverage once a day, by dissolving one dose in 200 ml of still water, for 2 months. All individuals were clinically and biochemically examined. The individual profiles of LDL and HDL particles were determined by polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis, while the concentrations of non-cholesterol sterols were measured using the gas chromatography - flame ionization detector. High-sensitivity Creactive protein (hsCRP) was measured using the commercially available kit. Concentrations of oxidative stress status parameters were measured spectrophotometrically. Though no change was observed in lipid profile parameters, values of coronary risk (CRI) (p < 0.05) and the atherogenic indexes (AI) (p < 0.05) after the supplementation were lower compared with values before the dietary intervention. After analyzing the markers of cholesterol synthesis and absorption, we only noticed a significant increase in campesterol concentrations (p < 0.05). Moreover, we found a statistically significant reduction in hsCRP concentrations in subjects who underwent spelt juice supplementation (p < 0.001). A significant decrease in PAB (p < 0.001), AOPP (p < 0.05) and PON1 (p < 0.001) was recorded after supplementation. On the other side, TAS values and concentration of SH groups were significantly higher after the dietary intervention (p < 0.001, both). We suggested a possible beneficial effect of the spelt grass supplementation on the overall lipid profile, the prooxidant-antioxidant balance, and inflammatory parameters.

Mesenchymal stem cells and COVID-19

With the appearance of the first cases of COVID-19 infection, which had a severe clinical picture accompanied by respiratory insufficiency, as well as multiorgan dysfunction, mesenchymal stem cells became the subject of intensive research. The main cause of tissue and organ damage in patients with COVID-19 infection is thought to be a cytokine storm, which is the result of an imbalance in the regulation of the host immune system. Previous studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells have an immunomodulatory effect and can prevent and reduce the cytokine storm triggered by the SARS-Cov-2 virus. Numerous clinical studies on the use of mesenchymal stem cells in patients with a severe clinical picture of COVID-19 are underway. Undoubtedly, cell therapy could be of great importance in the treatment of patients with a severe clinical picture of COVID-19, but it takes time to consider the efficacy and safety of such therapy, which is possible only through controlled multicenter clinical studies.

Neurological impairments in COVID-19 pandemic

The growing body of data implies that SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect the nervous system. We here present a short, taciturn overview of described neurological impairments related to SARS-CoV-2 infection. While it is obvious that neurological impairments can be diagnosed in a portion of COVID-19 patients, evidence of SARS-CoV-2 neurovirulence in humans is still lacking. The existing data on the incidence of neurological impairments among COVID-19 patients is highly variable, probably because they (most often) come from small, single-center retrospective studies. These data are practically published in real-time, and the question remains when larger studies will be available, given that the pandemic is continuing. We here also shortly address the other issues related to neurological disorders and COVID-19 pandemic, including the concern for people with existing chronic neurological disorders and possible long-term neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Vitamin C biochemistry: From scurvy to COVID-19 treatment

The story of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) as an antioxidant and a cofactor in numerous biochemical reactions is a part of its long history and it is well known today. However, many questions of its mechanism of action and the benefits that it has on human health are still emerging. This applies not only to the recommended doses but also to the route of its administration. Besides, there are numerous questions about the therapeutic efficacy of vitamin C in various human (infectious) diseases, as well as its immune system function and antiviral potential. The fact that vitamin C can act as a reductant (antioxidant) and a prooxidant further emphasizes its oxidation-reduction (redox) potential in real physiological conditions. Today, the question of the intravenous administration of vitamin C effect in patients with SARS-CoV-2 requires special attention. This review aims to showcase known facts about vitamin C and its mechanisms of action to better understand the current new challenges related to vitamin C.

Inappropriate diet and obesity based on view of the student population

In accordance with their obligations in college, students spend most of their days outside the home. It can lead to irregular and improper diet. The student population tends to consume high-energy, nutrient-poor foods, as well as neglecting meals, usually breakfast. This results in an increasing number of young people who have body-weight problems. The aim of this research was to determine students' attitudes about diet that can lead to obesity, as well as informing students about the consequences of obesity. There were 56 students of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, involved in the study. The research was carried out using anonymous questionnaire. The results of the study showed that a large number of students surveyed considered that they were obese and that obesity was a disease that could be treated in a healthy way. This study suggests that the student population should be offered education in this regard, since most of them are not familiar with the nutritional composition of a food before consuming it, as well as its "body mass index" and "body volume index". On the other hand, the students surveyed are aware of the particular risks that can lead to the onset of obesity, as well as the diseases that can arise as a result of being overweight. In addition, they consider the occurrence of obesity is a major problem not only in the world, but also in Serbia. This research is part of a study entitled "Attitudes and behaviors of students in relation to food and nutrition" and is a form of preventive action to combat the onset of obesity in the student population.

Endocrine disrupting chemicals vs longevity in the COVID-19 era: Public health implications

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a controversial topic within scientific, regulatory, socio-economic, and public health circles. Nonetheless, every community's physical environment is currently under siege from various EDCs, many of which are still unknown. EDCs affect the normal function of the endocrine, neurological, and immune systems, consequently diminishing successful development, reproductive adulthood, and decreasing survival. Beyond any doubt, adverse effects of EDCs are a consequence of multiple everyday exposures to hundreds of chemicals in unknown environmental doses such as pesticides, insecticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, brominated flame retardants, and parabens. Considering that thousands of other known endocrine disruptors fly under the radar of scientific and medical communities due to existing methodological pitfalls, the situation is quite precarious. In 2012, the World Health Organization published a report emphasizing that EDCs are a major and emerging global public health threat. The combined power of informed consumers, industry innovations, and government regulations is the driving force in this fight. Therefore, research advancements, public health infrastructure, and environmental protection agencies are the fundamental pillars in combating the ever-growing issue of EDCs.