A Randomised Double Blind Placebo Controlled Trial of a Nucleotide-Containing Supplement Nucell on Symptoms of Participants with the Common Cold - A Pilot Study

Objectives: To ascertain whether a nucleotide containing nutritional supplement Nucell attenuates self-reported symptoms of the common cold. Design: A randomised controlled trial. Setting: A University. Participants: Participants with self-reported symptoms of the common cold but otherwise healthy individuals. Intervention: Nucell capsules containing a yeast-based nucleotide preparation or placebo were provided over a 28 day period. Outcome Measures: Subjective ratings of symptoms were recorded by self-administered questionnaires using a nine-point scale. Salivary IgA concentrations were analysed from samples collected during the first 7 days and then at days 14,21 and 28 of supplementation. Total and white blood cell counts were also measured throughout the intervention. Results: Thirty-six participants completed the study. Nineteen received Nucell and 17 received the placebo. The mean age of participants was similar (29.8 + 2.5 in Nucell group v 30.7 + 2.7 in control group) and the time participants had been suffering from cold-related symptoms was not significantly different in each treatment group (2.5 + 0.40 days in Nucell v 2.9 + 0.47 days in control group). Severity of self-reported symptoms was significantly attenuated in the Nucell treated group in the first week of supplementation for questions asked with respect to taste, painful sinuses and earache (p< 0.05). Supplementation with Nucell did not adversely affect total or differential white blood counts. Conclusion: These results suggest that Nucell supplementation administered as a treatment for cold-related symptoms may reduce the severity of specific symptoms particularly in the early infective phase. In conclusion, Nucell supplementation may provide subjective relief of some cold-related symptoms and may be of significant benefit administered as a treatment in participants where sinus pain, earache and diminished taste are common symptoms.sch_diepub4363pu

Daily nutrient intake based on lunchtime meal type in a group of 11-14 year old Scottish schoolchildren

Background: The introduction of Scottish Nutrient Standards for School Lunches is a key component in improving the diet of the nation's schoolchildren. Lunchtime meal options for Scottish schoolchildren include school meals, packed lunches and lunches purchased beyond the school gate. Methods: To investigate the daily nutrient intake of secondary school children based on the three lunch types above and compare this with the nutrient standards. A cross-sectional analysis of 5-day estimated food diaries from 332 secondary school pupils aged 11-14 years was conducted. Results: All lunch types had poor intakes of NSP, iron, and fruit and vegetables, both at lunchtime and over the whole day. Mean daily energy intake was 7.85 MJ (SD 2.48) for canteen lunches, 8.33 MJ (SD 2.18) for packed lunches and 9.1 MJ (SD 2.38) for street lunches. Mean daily saturated fat intake was for canteen lunches: 29.8 g (SD 13.4), packed lunches: 34.1 g (SD 14.3) and street lunches: 35.0 g (SD 13.6). On canteen lunch days children consumed the least fat, SFA and NMES, and the most folate and calcium. On packed lunch days children had the highest intakes of NSP, vitamin A, iron and fruit and vegetables. Conclusions: Canteen lunch days showed the most favourable nutrient profile in terms of fat, SFA, NMES, folate and calcium. Packed lunch days showed the most favourable intakes of NSP, vitamin A, iron and fruit and vegetables. Findings suggest that children should be encouraged to have canteen lunches.sch_die4pub4304pub

School meal contribution to nutrient intake amongst 11-14 year old Scottish schoolchildren

Objective: To assess nutrient intake of children who buy lunch in school, outside school, or bring a packed lunch to school, and compare this with the nutrient standards. Methods: Secondary school pupils aged 11-14 years (n 332) from two secondary schools in Fife, Scotland, were asked to complete food diaries for a period of five days (Monday to Friday) to record foods and drinks consumed and portion sizes. Nutritional analysis of the diaries was carried out in respect to ten key nutrients/foods for which standards had been defined in the Scottish Nutrient School Standards for Lunches (SNSSL). Descriptive statistics were complied for each lunch type and analysis was conducted to investigate the importance of the lunchtime meal. Results: Around a third of pupils (32.8%) habitually had canteen lunches. The mean energy intake of canteen lunches was 504kcal (2109kJ), compared with 556kcal (2326kJ) for packed lunches and 707kcal (2958kJ) for lunches bought outside of school ('street lunches'). Canteen lunches provided the 'most nutritious lunch', with street lunches providing the 'least nutritious lunch'. Conclusions: The findings from this study emphasise the importance in canteen lunches in terms of nutritional quality as well as quantity, especially in terms of fat and SFA. Even if the overall menu, considered over a week, may meet SNSSL, this study indicates that (owing to food choices made by children in the canteen) the actual lunchtime nutrient intakes of children consuming canteen lunches were often far from achieving the nutritional standards.sch_die4pub4305pub

Assessing the validity and acceptability of DietPhone as a dietary measurement tool in adolescent girls

sch_die69pub1707pubOCE

Synthesis of nano-structured SDC based on cermet materials for SOFC anode using a hybrid organic/inorganic route

Peer reviewed: YesNRC publication: Ye

Proton conducting plastic crystal electrolytes based on pivalic acid

Peer reviewed: YesNRC publication: Ye

5-Hydroxyvitamin D concentration in paediatric cancer patients from Scotland:a prospective cohort study

Children with cancer are potentially at high risk of plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] inadequacy and despite UK vitamin D supplementation guidelines their implementation remains inconsistent. Thus, we aimed to investigate 25(OH)D concentration and factors contributing to 25(OH)D inadequacy in paediatric cancer patients. A prospective cohort study of Scottish children aged <18 years, diagnosed with and treated for cancer (patients) between Aug 2010-Jan 2014 was performed, with control data from Scottish healthy children (controls). Clinical and nutritional data were collected at defined periods up to 24 months. 25(OH)D status was defined by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (2013); inadequacy [<50 nmol/L: deficiency (<25 nmol/L), insufficiency (25-50 nmol/L)], sufficiency (51-75 nmol/L), optimal (>75 nmol/L). Eighty-two patients [median(IQR) age 3.9(1.9-8.8); 56% males)] and 35 controls [median(IQR) age (6.2(4.8-9.1); 49% males] were recruited. 25(OH)D inadequacy was highly prevalent in the controls (63%; 22/35), and in the patients (64%; 42/65) at both baseline and during treatment (33-50%). Non-supplemented children had the highest prevalence of 25(OH)D inadequacy at every stage with 25(OH)D median(IQR) ranging from 32.0 (21.0-46.5) nmol/L to 45.0(28.0-64.5) nmol/L. Older age at baseline [R=-0.46; p<0.001], overnutrition (BMI ≥85th centile) at 3 months [p=0.005; RR=3.1] and not being supplemented at 6 months (p=0.04; RR=4.3) may have contributed to lower plasma 25(OH)D. Paediatric cancer patients are not at higher risk of 25(OH)D inadequacy than healthy children at diagnosis; however prevalence of 25(OH)D inadequacy is still high and non-supplemented children have a higher risk. Appropriate monitoring and therapeutic supplementation should be implemented

Effect of Pomegranate Extract Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors, Stress Hormones, and Quality of Life in Human Volunteers: An Exploratory Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background: Pomegranate extract (PE) provides a rich and varied source of biophenols, which can act as powerful antioxidants. The most abundant being ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and ellagic and gallic acid derivatives.. Evidence suggests that pomegranate juice consumption may alleviate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. This exploratory study investigates the effect of PE consumption on blood pressure (BP), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), stress hormone levels (cortisol/cortisone) and quality of life in healthy human volunteers. Methods: Seven males and 22 females(n = 29) participated in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled exploratory study (BMI: 25.05 3.91 kg/m_, age: 34.5 13.7 years). All participants consumed either one PE (Pomanox, Pomegreat) or a placebo capsule daily, after a meal, for 4 weeks. Dietary history and habits and the health related Quality of Life questionnaire (Rand 36) were recorded pre- and post-intervention. BP, salivary cortisol and cortisone levels (am, noon, and pm) were assessed by ELISAs, and fasting blood was obtained at baseline and after 4 weeks to compare glucose, insulin and insulin resistance parameters. Results: All participants randomised in the study completed the intervention. Systolic BP was significantly reduced following PE from 120.3 13.3 to 115.6 13.1 mmHg (P = 0.012). There was a reduction in the HOMA-IR levels from2.22 2.62 to 1.61 1.88 (P = 0.045), and glucose, insulin and uric acid all decreased from baseline. No significant changes were recorded in volunteers taking the placebo. PE consumption caused a significant drop of salivary cortisol levels (am; 39.5 19.6%, p &lt; 0.001 and noon; 43.1 32.3%, p = 0.016). The salivary cortisol/cortisone ratio was also significantly reduced (am from 1.11 0.51 to 0.55 0.26, p &lt; 0.001, noon 1.57 0.85 to 0.75 0.72, p &lt; 0.001 and pm; 1.22 0.90 to 0.74 0.59, p = 0.011). Physical (p = 0.018) and social functioning (p = 0.021), pain (p = 0.003), general health (p = 0.008) and overall Quality of Life score (p = 0.007) were significantly improved in those taking the PE capsules. The intervention was delivered successfully with no withdrawals. Conclusions: These results suggest that PE intake rich in biophenols may ameliorate cardiovascular risk factors, reduce stress levels and improve perceived health related quality of life. The reduction in salivary cortisol levels may prove beneficial for people suffering from chronic stress. This exploratory study provides useful information required to conduct a definitive trial.sch_die2pub4144pub

Post-prandial effects of a meal rich in long-chain omega-3 fatty acids on indicators of cardiovascular risk

Funding was provided through a joint funding initiative from the Institute for Health & Welfare Research at RGU and QMUIntroduction Evidence from epidemiological studies indicates that the regular consumption of oily fish may be protective against the risk of cardiovascular disease. The benefits appear to be related to the content of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA), specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Current UK dietary guidelines therefore recommend the consumption of two portions of fish per week, one of which should be oily (1), which equates to 0.45g LC n-3 PUFA per day. Although there is limited information about intakes of EPA and DHA in Scotland, recent studies show that they are consistently below recommendations (2). Further review of the dietary intake data indicates that the consumption of oily fish is sporadic and inconsistent (3) despite attempts to promote regular intake. Several of the mechanisms involved in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) involve endothelial function. Post-prandial hyperlipidaemia has been linked to an increased risk of CVD (4), which is largely attributed to the transient (2-6 hour) decrease in endothelial function (5). Changes in endothelial function have also been shown to be associated with superoxide production (6), implicating oxidative stress as a possible mechanism for endothelial dysfunction. The long-term effects of LC n-3 PUFA on oxidative stress and inflammation are well established, however little is known about their immediate post-prandial effects. Identifying the possible benefits of consumption of a single meal rich in LC n-3 PUFA may provide a new perspective on which to promote dietary changes. The aim of this pilot project was therefore to identify post-prandial changes in markers of cardiovascular risk, assessed by measurement of arterial compliance, whole blood fatty acid profile, plasma glucose and insulin, markers of endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and antioxidant status in response a test meal naturally rich LC n-3 PUFA compared with a control meal.sch_dieunpub2825unpu

Assessment of Plasma Antioxidants, Oxidative Stress and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Paediatric Cancer Patients: A Prospective Cohort Pilot Study

Background: Paediatric cancer patients may have a limited dietary intake, particularly nutrients high in antioxidants, docosahexanoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA). Objective: To investigate the antioxidant status (TAS), antioxidant capacity (TAC), oxidative stress, DHA and EPA of paediatric cancer patients during treatment. Methods: A prospective cohort study of Scottish children aged &lt;18 years, diagnosed with and treated for cancer between April-2013 to Jan-2014 was performed. Clinical data and blood samples were collected at baseline and 6 months. Data were stratified by treatment risk (low, medium and high) and nutritional support. We used Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) Antioxidant Assay to measure TAC, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) for lipid peroxidation and high performance liquid chromatography and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry for TAS. The analyses of DHA and EPA were performed by analysing fatty acidmethyl esters (FAME) using gas-liquid chromatography. The reference ranges used were: Yagi 1998 (1.86-3.94) _mol for lipid peroxidation and Damsgaard.,et al. 2014 for EPA (0.45-0.77) % and DHA (2.22-3.76) %. Results: 20 patients (median (IQR) age 4.2 (1.5-8.5) years; 50% males) were recruited. There were no significant changes in plasma TAS, TAC and EPA, but lipid peroxidation significantly decreased from 7.4 (6.2-9.0) at baseline to 5.3 (4.5-6.4) _mol/MDA at 6 months(p = 0.003). The median (IQR) blood percentage of DHA significantly increased from 1.3 (0.9-1.9) to 1.8 (1.3-2.1) (p = 0.001). Lipid peroxidation was high in 95% (19/20) of patients at baseline and 94% (15/16) at 6 months; whilst DHA and EPA were low in 95%(19/20) and 70% (14/20) at baseline and 87.5% (14/16) and 60% (12/16) at 6 months. Children on high-treatment risk exhibited the highest oxidative stress levels. No statitically significant differences were found between non-supplemented and supplemented children in any of the following parameters (TAS, TAC, oxidative stress, EPA and DHA). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of oxidative stress, especially in children treated with high-risk protocols and during the initial phases of treatment. Nutritional support does not appear to provide enough TAS, EPA and DHA in this cohort; however, larger high-quality population based studies are warranted to confirm these findings. Keywords: Paediatric cancer; Antioxidants; Oxidative stress; Docosahexanoic acid; Eicosapentanoic acidsch_dieThe Determinants of Nutritional Risk in Paediatric Cancer2pub4313pub