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Prof. Maria-Luz Fernandez
Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA

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Review
Published: 25 June 2021 in Nutrients
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Non-communicable diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, hepatic steatosis, and cancer are more prevalent in minority groups including Hispanics when compared to Non-Hispanic Whites, leading to the well-recognized terminology of health disparities. Although lifestyle factors including inadequate dietary habits, decreased physical activity, and more prominently, an unhealthy body weight, may be partly responsible for this disproportion in chronic diseases, genetic variations also make a substantial contribution to this problem. In this review, the well-recognized obesity problem in Hispanics that has been associated with chronic disease is examined as well as the influence of diet on promoting an inflammatory environment leading to increased cardiometabolic risk, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, and cancer. In addition, some of the more studied genetic variations in Hispanics and their association with chronic disease is reviewed.

ACS Style

Maria Fernandez. Lifestyle Factors and Genetic Variants Associated to Health Disparities in the Hispanic Population. Nutrients 2021, 13, 2189 .

AMA Style

Maria Fernandez. Lifestyle Factors and Genetic Variants Associated to Health Disparities in the Hispanic Population. Nutrients. 2021; 13 (7):2189.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Fernandez. 2021. "Lifestyle Factors and Genetic Variants Associated to Health Disparities in the Hispanic Population." Nutrients 13, no. 7: 2189.

Review
Published: 23 June 2021 in Nutrients
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Omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and their metabolites have long been recognized to protect against inflammation-related diseases including heart disease. Recent reports present conflicting evidence on the effects of n-3 PUFAs on major cardiovascular events including death. While some studies document that n-3 PUFA supplementation reduces the risk for heart disease, others report no beneficial effects on heart disease composite primary outcomes. Much of this heterogeneity may be related to the genetic variation in different individuals/populations that alters their capacity to synthesize biologically active n-3 and omega 6 (n-6) PUFAs and metabolites from their 18 carbon dietary precursors, linoleic acid (LA, 18:2 n-6) and alpha-linolenic (ALA, 18:3, n-3). Here, we discuss the role of a FADS gene-by-dietary PUFA interaction model that takes into consideration dietary exposure, including the intake of LA and ALA, n-3 PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in determining the efficacy of n-3 PUFA supplementation. We also review recent clinical trials with n-3 PUFA supplementation and coronary heart disease in the context of what is known about fatty acid desaturase (FADS) gene-by-dietary PUFA interactions. Given the dramatic differences in the frequencies of FADS variants that impact the efficiency of n-3 and n-6 PUFA biosynthesis, and their downstream signaling products among global and admixture populations, we conclude that large clinical trials utilizing “one size fits all” n-3 PUFA supplementation approaches are unlikely to show effectiveness. However, evidence discussed in this review suggests that n-3 PUFA supplementation may represent an important opportunity where precision interventions can be focused on those populations that will benefit the most from n-3 PUFA supplementation.

ACS Style

Maria Fernandez; Sarah Blomquist; Brian Hallmark; Floyd Chilton. Omega-3 Supplementation and Heart Disease: A Population-Based Diet by Gene Analysis of Clinical Trial Outcomes. Nutrients 2021, 13, 2154 .

AMA Style

Maria Fernandez, Sarah Blomquist, Brian Hallmark, Floyd Chilton. Omega-3 Supplementation and Heart Disease: A Population-Based Diet by Gene Analysis of Clinical Trial Outcomes. Nutrients. 2021; 13 (7):2154.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Fernandez; Sarah Blomquist; Brian Hallmark; Floyd Chilton. 2021. "Omega-3 Supplementation and Heart Disease: A Population-Based Diet by Gene Analysis of Clinical Trial Outcomes." Nutrients 13, no. 7: 2154.

Commentary
Published: 10 March 2021 in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
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The dietary guidelines as well as the organizations that establish the recommendations are not homogeneous across regions of the world. Each country utilizes specific icons to better describe to the public easy ways to follow specific recommendations, including the use of pyramids, plates, and other forms of presenting key information. All dietary guidelines are updated within certain periods to ensure that new findings or specific changes are communicated to the public. The purpose of this commentary is to describe the most updated information as well as some history on how these symbols are utilized in different countries or areas of the world. The updated Mediterranean pyramid as well as MyPlate and the Pyramids utilized in South Africa, Japan, and Argentina are discussed in this commentary.

ACS Style

Maria Fernandez; Dele Raheem; Fernando Ramos; Conrado Carrascosa; Ariana Saraiva; António Raposo. Highlights of Current Dietary Guidelines in Five Continents. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 2814 .

AMA Style

Maria Fernandez, Dele Raheem, Fernando Ramos, Conrado Carrascosa, Ariana Saraiva, António Raposo. Highlights of Current Dietary Guidelines in Five Continents. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (6):2814.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Fernandez; Dele Raheem; Fernando Ramos; Conrado Carrascosa; Ariana Saraiva; António Raposo. 2021. "Highlights of Current Dietary Guidelines in Five Continents." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 6: 2814.

Review
Published: 17 February 2021 in Current Atherosclerosis Reports
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The association between plasma Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO), diet and risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still not fully understood. While epidemiologic research shows a causal relationship between plasma TMAO concentrations and CVD risk, the role of dietary precursors in determining plasma concentrations of TMAO and biomarkers for CVD is inconclusive. Studies in diverse populations show that plasma TMAO concentrations are positively associated with inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, type-2 diabetes, central adiposity and hypertension. Most recent studies utilizing challenges of dietary choline have not shown increases in plasma chronic TMAO concentrations while studies with carnitine have shown increases in plasma TMAO but in some cases, no alterations in plasma lipids or biomarkers of oxidative stress were observed. TMAO is an important plasma metabolite that through several mechanisms can increase the risk of CVD. The correlations between dietary choline and carnitine on chronic plasma TMAO levels and risk for CVD requires further investigation.

ACS Style

Minu S. Thomas; Maria Luz Fernandez. Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO), Diet and Cardiovascular Disease. Current Atherosclerosis Reports 2021, 23, 1 -7.

AMA Style

Minu S. Thomas, Maria Luz Fernandez. Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO), Diet and Cardiovascular Disease. Current Atherosclerosis Reports. 2021; 23 (4):1-7.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Minu S. Thomas; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2021. "Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO), Diet and Cardiovascular Disease." Current Atherosclerosis Reports 23, no. 4: 1-7.

Journal article
Published: 01 January 2021 in CyTA - Journal of Food
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In this study were evaluated the effects of the chronic consumption of agraz (Vaccinium meridionale) on antioxidant status and oxidative stress markers in 40 women with metabolic syndrome (MetS) (47.2 ± 9.4 years) through a double-blind, crossover design study, in which participants consumed daily agraz or placebo during 4 weeks, separated by a 4-wk washout period. At the end of each intervention period, endogenous antioxidant enzymes activity, serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (ferric reducing ability of plasma [FRAP]; Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity [ORAC] and 2,2ʹ-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) [ABTS]), and oxidative stress markers (Oxo-2ʹ-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and F2-isoprostane) were determined. Women who increased endogenous antioxidant enzymes activity and serum TAC after agraz consumption, compared to placebo, significantly reduced oxidative stress markers, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c) levels, and waist circumference, demonstrating beneficial effects in the group of women in whom antioxidant parameters increased after agraz consumption, evidencing an individual variability in response to the beverage consumed.

ACS Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Manuela Piedrahita-Blandón; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Christopher N. Blesso; María-Luz Fernández; Vitelbina Nuñez-Rangel; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Improvements in antioxidant status after agraz consumption was associated to reductions in cardiovascular risk factors in women with metabolic syndrome. CyTA - Journal of Food 2021, 19, 238 -246.

AMA Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri, Manuela Piedrahita-Blandón, Yeisson Galvis-Pérez, Christopher N. Blesso, María-Luz Fernández, Vitelbina Nuñez-Rangel, Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Improvements in antioxidant status after agraz consumption was associated to reductions in cardiovascular risk factors in women with metabolic syndrome. CyTA - Journal of Food. 2021; 19 (1):238-246.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Manuela Piedrahita-Blandón; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Christopher N. Blesso; María-Luz Fernández; Vitelbina Nuñez-Rangel; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. 2021. "Improvements in antioxidant status after agraz consumption was associated to reductions in cardiovascular risk factors in women with metabolic syndrome." CyTA - Journal of Food 19, no. 1: 238-246.

Journal article
Published: 13 October 2020 in Nutrients
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Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance, which increase the risk of heart disease. Eggs have numerous nutrients including choline, carotenoids, and fat-soluble vitamins that may protect against these conditions. Egg phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a major contributor of dietary choline in the American diet. However, uncertainty remains regarding eggs due to their high concentration of cholesterol. In this study, we evaluated the effect of two sources of choline, whole eggs (a source of PC) and a choline supplement (choline bitartrate, CB), on plasma lipids, glucose, insulin resistance, and inflammatory biomarkers. We recruited 23 subjects with MetS to participate in this randomized cross-over intervention. After a 2-week washout, with no choline intake, participants were randomly allocated to consume three eggs/day or CB (~400 mg choline/d for both) for 4 weeks. After a 3-week washout period, they were allocated to the alternate treatment. Dietary records indicated higher concentrations of vitamin E and selenium during the egg period (p < 0.01). Interestingly, there were no changes in plasma total, low density lipoprotein (LDL)- or high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, triglycerides, or glucose, compared either to baseline or between treatments. In contrast, interleukin-6 was reduced, with both sources of choline compared to baseline, while eggs also had an effect on lowering C-reactive protein, insulin, and insulin resistance compared to baseline. This study demonstrates that in a MetS population, intake of three eggs per day does not increase plasma LDL cholesterol, and has additional benefits on biomarkers of disease compared to a choline supplement, possibly due to the presence of other antioxidants in eggs.

ACS Style

Marissa DiBella; Minu S. Thomas; Hana Alyousef; Courtney Millar; Christopher Blesso; Olga Malysheva; Marie A. Caudill; Maria Luz Fernandez. Choline Intake as Supplement or as a Component of Eggs Increases Plasma Choline and Reduces Interleukin-6 without Modifying Plasma Cholesterol in Participants with Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients 2020, 12, 3120 .

AMA Style

Marissa DiBella, Minu S. Thomas, Hana Alyousef, Courtney Millar, Christopher Blesso, Olga Malysheva, Marie A. Caudill, Maria Luz Fernandez. Choline Intake as Supplement or as a Component of Eggs Increases Plasma Choline and Reduces Interleukin-6 without Modifying Plasma Cholesterol in Participants with Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients. 2020; 12 (10):3120.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Marissa DiBella; Minu S. Thomas; Hana Alyousef; Courtney Millar; Christopher Blesso; Olga Malysheva; Marie A. Caudill; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2020. "Choline Intake as Supplement or as a Component of Eggs Increases Plasma Choline and Reduces Interleukin-6 without Modifying Plasma Cholesterol in Participants with Metabolic Syndrome." Nutrients 12, no. 10: 3120.

Journal article
Published: 17 August 2020 in The Journal of Nutrition
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See corresponding article on page 2707.

ACS Style

Maria Luz Fernandez. The Positive Association of Plasma Myristic Acid and Apolipoprotein CIII Concentrations. The Journal of Nutrition 2020, 150, 2613 -2614.

AMA Style

Maria Luz Fernandez. The Positive Association of Plasma Myristic Acid and Apolipoprotein CIII Concentrations. The Journal of Nutrition. 2020; 150 (10):2613-2614.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Luz Fernandez. 2020. "The Positive Association of Plasma Myristic Acid and Apolipoprotein CIII Concentrations." The Journal of Nutrition 150, no. 10: 2613-2614.

Review
Published: 11 June 2020 in Journal of Food Biochemistry
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Diverse notions exist regarding egg intake, which is one of the main sources of dietary cholesterol, and its effect on blood lipids. We conducted this study to update the previous meta‐analysis for their flaw in calculated effect size. PubMed, Scopus, ISI, and Cochrane were searched up to April 2019, for relevant randomized controlled clinical trials. Mean changes in total cholesterol (TC), LDL‐cholesterol (LDL‐C), HDL‐cholesterol (HDL‐C), triglyceride (TG), very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL‐C), LDL‐C/HDL‐C, TC/HDL‐C, apolipoprotein (apo)A1, and apoB100 were assessed. Meta‐analysis of 66 RCTs with 3,185 participants revealed that egg consumption can significantly increase TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, TC/HDL‐C, apoA1/and B100, but there was no significant effect on other serum lipids. Dose‐response analysis showed a linear effect for TC, HDL‐C, ApoA1, ApoB100, and nonlinear for LDL‐C, and TC/HDL‐C. In conclusion, intake of more than one egg daily in less than 12 weeks may increase some blood lipids without any changes in the ratio of LDL‐C/HDL‐C. Practical applications There are controversies reports for egg intake, which is one of the main sources of dietary cholesterol. This study provides comprehensive information about the effect of the number of eggs consumed per day (dietary cholesterol) on blood lipids for nutritionists, physicians, researchers, and the general population. In this regard, our results indicated that there is a linear correlation between consumption of greater than one egg per day in a short time (no long time) and increasing lipid profiles which may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, consumption of one egg daily can be safe and this can be a useful recommendation for prevention of cardiovascular disease and promotion of healthy life which indeed are the potential or actual uses of this research.

ACS Style

Masoumeh Khalighi Sikaroudi; Sepideh Soltani; Roya Kolahdouz‐Mohammadi; Zachary Stephen Clayton; Maria Luz Fernandez; Fatemeh Varse; Farzad Shidfar. The responses of different dosages of egg consumption on blood lipid profile: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Food Biochemistry 2020, 44, e13263 .

AMA Style

Masoumeh Khalighi Sikaroudi, Sepideh Soltani, Roya Kolahdouz‐Mohammadi, Zachary Stephen Clayton, Maria Luz Fernandez, Fatemeh Varse, Farzad Shidfar. The responses of different dosages of egg consumption on blood lipid profile: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Food Biochemistry. 2020; 44 (8):e13263.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Masoumeh Khalighi Sikaroudi; Sepideh Soltani; Roya Kolahdouz‐Mohammadi; Zachary Stephen Clayton; Maria Luz Fernandez; Fatemeh Varse; Farzad Shidfar. 2020. "The responses of different dosages of egg consumption on blood lipid profile: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials." Journal of Food Biochemistry 44, no. 8: e13263.

Short communication
Published: 25 November 2019 in Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
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It has been demonstrated that some individuals (approximately 1/3 of the population) can be classified as hyper-responders to dietary cholesterol. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the response to dietary cholesterol (provided by eggs) would mediate lipoprotein metabolism and the bioavailability of lutein, zeaxanthin, and choline, nutritional components present in eggs. We recruited 36 healthy subjects who underwent a two-week washout period in which they consumed zero eggs. Participants were then consecutively fed 1, 2, and 3 eggs/day for 4 weeks each. In this analysis, we compared intake of 0 eggs/day to 3 eggs/day (540 additional mg of dietary cholesterol/day). Plasma lipids, lipoprotein particle subfractions, and plasma lutein, zeaxanthin, and choline were measured. We classified the normal plasma response to dietary cholesterol as an increase of 2.2 mg/dL for each 100 mg of dietary cholesterol/day. Therefore, those individuals with >12 mg/dL increase in plasma cholesterol after the intervention (n = 12) were considered hyper-responders while the remaining 24 subjects presented changes in plasma cholesterol ranging from −16 to 9 mg/dL and were considered normal responders. Compared to 0 eggs, hyper-responders had significant increases in plasma total, LDL and HDL cholesterol (p < 0.001) with no changes in the LDL/HDL ratio following intake of 3 eggs/day. They also had higher concentrations of large LDL (p < 0.01) with no changes in small LDL. Interestingly, both hyper- and normal responders had significant increases in large HDL particle concentration (12%) and plasma lutein (17%), zeaxanthin (30%), and choline (12%) (p < 0.001) compared to 0 eggs. These results suggest that egg intake increases the bioavailability of carotenoids and choline present in eggs independently of individual responses to dietary cholesterol. Further, the observed increases in large HDL in all individuals could be associated with HDL being a major transporter of lutein and zeaxanthin in plasma.

ACS Style

Diana M. DiMarco; Maria Luz Fernandez. Differences in response to egg-derived dietary cholesterol result in distinct lipoprotein profiles while plasma concentrations of carotenoids and choline are not affected in a young healthy population. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research 2019, 1, 100014 .

AMA Style

Diana M. DiMarco, Maria Luz Fernandez. Differences in response to egg-derived dietary cholesterol result in distinct lipoprotein profiles while plasma concentrations of carotenoids and choline are not affected in a young healthy population. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research. 2019; 1 ():100014.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Diana M. DiMarco; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2019. "Differences in response to egg-derived dietary cholesterol result in distinct lipoprotein profiles while plasma concentrations of carotenoids and choline are not affected in a young healthy population." Journal of Agriculture and Food Research 1, no. : 100014.

Journal article
Published: 04 October 2019 in The Journal of Nutrition
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ACS Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. Small HDL Particles Are Associated with Gestational Diabetes, Providing a Potential Early Identification Tool. The Journal of Nutrition 2019, 150, 8 -9.

AMA Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. Small HDL Particles Are Associated with Gestational Diabetes, Providing a Potential Early Identification Tool. The Journal of Nutrition. 2019; 150 (1):8-9.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. 2019. "Small HDL Particles Are Associated with Gestational Diabetes, Providing a Potential Early Identification Tool." The Journal of Nutrition 150, no. 1: 8-9.

Review
Published: 11 September 2019 in Antioxidants
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Zeaxanthin, a non-provitamin A carotenoid that belongs to the xanthophyll family, has been less studied than its isomer lutein. However, zeaxanthin has also been shown to have a number of beneficial effects for human health due to its ability to quench free radicals, exert antioxidant effects, as well as decrease inflammation. It is the purpose of this review to discuss the metabolism of zeaxanthin, including digestion, absorption, transport, and uptake by tissues, as well as the dietary or other factors which affect zeaxanthin bioavailability. In addition, this review also focuses on specific effects of this carotenoid on eye, skin, liver, and cardiovascular health. Data derived from human interventions, animal models of research, and in vitro and cell studies are discussed in this review.

ACS Style

Ana Gabriela Murillo; Siqi Hu; Maria Luz Fernandez. Zeaxanthin: Metabolism, Properties, and Antioxidant Protection of Eyes, Heart, Liver, and Skin. Antioxidants 2019, 8, 390 .

AMA Style

Ana Gabriela Murillo, Siqi Hu, Maria Luz Fernandez. Zeaxanthin: Metabolism, Properties, and Antioxidant Protection of Eyes, Heart, Liver, and Skin. Antioxidants. 2019; 8 (9):390.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Ana Gabriela Murillo; Siqi Hu; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2019. "Zeaxanthin: Metabolism, Properties, and Antioxidant Protection of Eyes, Heart, Liver, and Skin." Antioxidants 8, no. 9: 390.

Journal article
Published: 01 April 2019 in The Journal of Nutrition
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ACS Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. Plant-Based Diet Quality is Associated with Changes in Plasma Adiposity Biomarker Concentrations in Women. The Journal of Nutrition 2019, 149, 551 -552.

AMA Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. Plant-Based Diet Quality is Associated with Changes in Plasma Adiposity Biomarker Concentrations in Women. The Journal of Nutrition. 2019; 149 (4):551-552.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria-Luz Fernandez. 2019. "Plant-Based Diet Quality is Associated with Changes in Plasma Adiposity Biomarker Concentrations in Women." The Journal of Nutrition 149, no. 4: 551-552.

Editorial
Published: 04 January 2019 in Nutrients
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As we move forward and continue to publish the most recent and prominent scientific findings in Nutritional Sciences for the next 10 years, the current editors-in-chief would like to take a look at the history of Nutrients

ACS Style

Lluis Serra-Majem; Maria Luz Fernandez. Nutrients 2009–2019: The Present and the Future of Nutrition. Nutrients 2019, 11, 88 .

AMA Style

Lluis Serra-Majem, Maria Luz Fernandez. Nutrients 2009–2019: The Present and the Future of Nutrition. Nutrients. 2019; 11 (1):88.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Lluis Serra-Majem; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2019. "Nutrients 2009–2019: The Present and the Future of Nutrition." Nutrients 11, no. 1: 88.

Journal article
Published: 08 December 2018 in Antioxidants
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Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with low-grade inflammation and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) dysfunction. Polyphenol-rich foods may improve these alterations. Agraz is a fruit rich in polyphenols (mainly anthocyanins); however, there is limited information about its effects on human health. We evaluated the effects of agraz consumption as compared to placebo on HDL function and inflammation in women with MetS. Forty volunteers (25–60 years) were included in this double-blind crossover study. Women consumed agraz or placebo over 4 weeks; separated by a 4-week washout period. HDL function (apoliprotein-A1; paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity; cholesterol efflux capacity), oxidative stress (myeloperoxidase (MPO), advanced oxidation protein products) and inflammatory markers (serum cytokines/chemokines and peripheral blood mononuclear cell nuclear factor-kB) were measured after each period. Compared to placebo, agraz consumption did not significantly change any of the biomarkers measured. Interestingly, only after agraz period there were significant positive correlations between PON1 activities and cholesterol efflux. Additionally, there were significant inverse correlations between changes in inflammatory markers and HDL function markers and positive correlations with oxidative markers. Although polyphenol-rich foods have been shown to be beneficial for certain conditions; polyphenol-rich agraz fruit consumption did not impact inflammation and HDL function in the current study of women with MetS.

ACS Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Christopher N. Blesso; Maria Luz Fernández; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Gelmy Ciro-Gómez; Vitelbina Núñez-Rangel; Juan C. Aristizábal; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Effect of Agraz (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) on High-Density Lipoprotein Function and Inflammation in Women with Metabolic Syndrome. Antioxidants 2018, 7, 185 .

AMA Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri, Christopher N. Blesso, Maria Luz Fernández, Yeisson Galvis-Pérez, Gelmy Ciro-Gómez, Vitelbina Núñez-Rangel, Juan C. Aristizábal, Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Effect of Agraz (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) on High-Density Lipoprotein Function and Inflammation in Women with Metabolic Syndrome. Antioxidants. 2018; 7 (12):185.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Christopher N. Blesso; Maria Luz Fernández; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Gelmy Ciro-Gómez; Vitelbina Núñez-Rangel; Juan C. Aristizábal; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. 2018. "Effect of Agraz (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) on High-Density Lipoprotein Function and Inflammation in Women with Metabolic Syndrome." Antioxidants 7, no. 12: 185.

Randomized controlled trial
Published: 02 November 2018 in Nutrients
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Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by increased oxidative stress and a pro-inflammatory state. Vaccinium meridionale Swartz (known as “agraz”) is a berry rich in polyphenolic compounds with demonstrated antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of agraz consumption on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in women with MetS. Forty women with MetS (47 ± 9 years) were randomly assigned to consume daily either 200 mL of agraz nectar or placebo over four weeks in a double-blind, cross-over design study, separated by a 4-week washout period. Metabolic and inflammatory markers in serum and antioxidant/oxidative stress markers in serum and urine were assessed at the end of each period. Serum antioxidant capacity measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method was significantly higher (p = 0.028), while urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was lower (p = 0.041) after agraz consumption, compared to placebo. In conclusion, consumption of agraz during four weeks increased serum antioxidant capacity and decreased a marker of DNA oxidative damage in women with MetS, compared to placebo. These results suggest that agraz consumption may play a protective role in patients with MetS.

ACS Style

Juliana Espinosa-Moncada; Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Gelmy Ciro-Gómez; Juan C. Aristizábal; Christopher N. Blesso; Maria Luz Fernandez; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Evaluation of Agraz Consumption on Adipocytokines, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress Markers in Women with Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients 2018, 10, 1639 .

AMA Style

Juliana Espinosa-Moncada, Catalina Marín-Echeverri, Yeisson Galvis-Pérez, Gelmy Ciro-Gómez, Juan C. Aristizábal, Christopher N. Blesso, Maria Luz Fernandez, Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. Evaluation of Agraz Consumption on Adipocytokines, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress Markers in Women with Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients. 2018; 10 (11):1639.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Juliana Espinosa-Moncada; Catalina Marín-Echeverri; Yeisson Galvis-Pérez; Gelmy Ciro-Gómez; Juan C. Aristizábal; Christopher N. Blesso; Maria Luz Fernandez; Jacqueline Barona-Acevedo. 2018. "Evaluation of Agraz Consumption on Adipocytokines, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress Markers in Women with Metabolic Syndrome." Nutrients 10, no. 11: 1639.

Randomized controlled trial
Published: 01 November 2018 in Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders
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Background: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles are protective against atherosclerosis. However, HDL function is impaired in metabolic syndrome (MetS) due to low-grade inflammation and dyslipidemia. Foods containing polyphenols, such as grapes, may prevent HDL dysfunction via antioxidant or anti-inflammatory effects. We evaluated the effects of grape powder ingestion on measures of HDL function in adults with MetS.Methods: Twenty adults (age: 32–70 years; body mass index: 25.3–45.4 kg/m2) consumed either 60 grams/day of freeze-dried grape powder (GRAPE) or a placebo for 4 weeks, separated by a 3-week washout period, in a randomized, double-blind crossover study. The primary outcome was serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) arylesterase activity, a measure of HDL antioxidant function. Secondary outcomes included PON1 lactonase activity, plasma lipids, metabolic markers, cholesterol efflux capacity, and other HDL functional markers.Results: After 4 weeks, GRAPE did not alter the serum PON1 activity or other markers of HDL function compared with placebo. Measures of HDL function were positively correlated with each other and inversely with measures of insulin resistance and inflammation. GRAPE intake led to a significant reduction in fasting plasma triglycerides compared with placebo (P = 0.032). No other significant effects of GRAPE were observed for other plasma lipids, anthropometrics, or metabolic measures.Conclusions: Grape powder consumption did not impact HDL function in this cohort of adults with MetS. However, it was shown to improve fasting triglycerides, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

ACS Style

Courtney L. Millar; Quinn Duclos; Chelsea Garcia; Gregory H. Norris; Bruno Lemos; Diana M. DiMarco; Maria Luz Fernandez; Christopher N. Blesso. Effects of Freeze-Dried Grape Powder on High-Density Lipoprotein Function in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders 2018, 16, 464 -469.

AMA Style

Courtney L. Millar, Quinn Duclos, Chelsea Garcia, Gregory H. Norris, Bruno Lemos, Diana M. DiMarco, Maria Luz Fernandez, Christopher N. Blesso. Effects of Freeze-Dried Grape Powder on High-Density Lipoprotein Function in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders. 2018; 16 (9):464-469.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Courtney L. Millar; Quinn Duclos; Chelsea Garcia; Gregory H. Norris; Bruno Lemos; Diana M. DiMarco; Maria Luz Fernandez; Christopher N. Blesso. 2018. "Effects of Freeze-Dried Grape Powder on High-Density Lipoprotein Function in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study." Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders 16, no. 9: 464-469.

Observational study
Published: 01 October 2018 in Physiology & Behavior
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Sensations from foods and beverages drive dietary choices, which in turn, affect risk of diet-related diseases. Perception of these sensation varies with environmental and genetic influences. This observational study aimed to examine associations between chemosensory phenotype, diet and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Reportedly healthy women (n = 110, average age 45 ± 9 years) participated in laboratory-based measures of chemosensory phenotype (taste and smell function, propylthiouracil (PROP) bitterness) and CVD risk factors (waist circumference, blood pressure, serum lipids). Diet variables included preference and intake of sweet/high-fat foods, dietary restraint, and diet quality based on reported preference (Healthy Eating Preference Index—HEPI) and intake (Healthy Eating Index—HEI). We found that females who reported high preference yet low consumption of sweet/high-fat foods had the highest dietary restraint and depressed quinine taste function. PROP nontasters were more likely to report lower diet quality; PROP supertasters more likely to consume but not like a healthy diet. Multivariate structural models were fitted to identify predictors of CVD risk factors. Reliable latent taste (quinine taste function, PROP tasting) and smell (odor intensity) variables were identified, with taste explaining more variance in the CVD risk factors. Lower bitter taste perception was associated with elevated risk. In multivariate models, the HEPI completely mediated the taste-adiposity and taste-HDL associations and partially mediated the taste-triglyceride or taste-systolic blood pressure associations. The taste-LDL pathway was significant and direct. The HEI could not replace HEPI in adequate models. However, using a latent diet quality variable with HEPI and HEI, increased the strength of association between diet quality and adiposity or CVD risk factors. In conclusion, bitter taste phenotype was associated with CVD risk factors via diet quality, particularly when assessed by level of food liking/disliking.

ACS Style

Mastaneh Sharafi; Shristi Rawal; Maria Luz Fernandez; Tania B. Huedo-Medina; Valerie B. Duffy. Taste phenotype associates with cardiovascular disease risk factors via diet quality in multivariate modeling. Physiology & Behavior 2018, 194, 103 -112.

AMA Style

Mastaneh Sharafi, Shristi Rawal, Maria Luz Fernandez, Tania B. Huedo-Medina, Valerie B. Duffy. Taste phenotype associates with cardiovascular disease risk factors via diet quality in multivariate modeling. Physiology & Behavior. 2018; 194 ():103-112.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mastaneh Sharafi; Shristi Rawal; Maria Luz Fernandez; Tania B. Huedo-Medina; Valerie B. Duffy. 2018. "Taste phenotype associates with cardiovascular disease risk factors via diet quality in multivariate modeling." Physiology & Behavior 194, no. : 103-112.

Randomized controlled trial
Published: 11 September 2018 in Current Pharmaceutical Design
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Background: Telomerase Activator 65 (TA-65), a compound extracted from Astragalus membranaceus has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for extending lifespan. Scarce information exists on the effects of TA-65 on parameters of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: We recruited 40 patients with MetS to determine the effects of TA-65 on dyslipidemias, hypertension, and oxidative stress in this at-risk population. The study was a double-blind, randomized crossover design in which patients were allocated to consume either 16 mg daily of a TA-65 supplement or a placebo for 12 weeks. Following a 3-week washout, participants were allocated to the alternate treatment for an additional 12 weeks. Anthropometric and biological markers were measured at the end of each treatment. Plasma lipids, glucose, CReactive Protein (CRP), liver enzymes, and glycosylated hemoglobin were measured using a Cobas c-111. Inflammatory cytokines were measured by Luminex technology and markers of oxidative stress by the use of spectroscopy. Results: Compared to the placebo period, HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) was higher while body mass index, waist circumference, and the LDL/HDL ratio were lower (p < 0.05) during TA-65 treatment. In addition, plasma tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was lower during the TA-65 period (p< 0.05). Positive correlations were observed in changes between the placebo and the TA-65 periods in HDL-C and CRP (r = -0.511, p < 0.01), alanine aminotransferase (r = -0.61, p < 0.001) and TNF-α (r = -0.550, p < 0.001) suggesting that the favorable changes observed in HDL were associated with decreases in inflammation. Conclusion: TA-65 improved key markers of cardiovascular disease risk, which were also associated with reductions in inflammation.

ACS Style

Maria Luz Fernandez; Minu Sara Thomas; Bruno Lemos; Diana M. DiMarco; Amanda Missimer; Melissa Melough; Ock K. Chun; Ana Gabriela Murillo; Hana M. Alyousef; Isabel Medina-Vera. TA-65, A Telomerase Activator improves Cardiovascular Markers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome. Current Pharmaceutical Design 2018, 24, 1905 -1911.

AMA Style

Maria Luz Fernandez, Minu Sara Thomas, Bruno Lemos, Diana M. DiMarco, Amanda Missimer, Melissa Melough, Ock K. Chun, Ana Gabriela Murillo, Hana M. Alyousef, Isabel Medina-Vera. TA-65, A Telomerase Activator improves Cardiovascular Markers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome. Current Pharmaceutical Design. 2018; 24 (17):1905-1911.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Luz Fernandez; Minu Sara Thomas; Bruno Lemos; Diana M. DiMarco; Amanda Missimer; Melissa Melough; Ock K. Chun; Ana Gabriela Murillo; Hana M. Alyousef; Isabel Medina-Vera. 2018. "TA-65, A Telomerase Activator improves Cardiovascular Markers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome." Current Pharmaceutical Design 24, no. 17: 1905-1911.

Journal article
Published: 03 May 2018 in Journal of the American College of Nutrition
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Dietary choline appears to be more bioavailable via egg consumption when compared to a choline supplement. Plasma TMAO concentrations were not affected in healthy participants after 4 weeks of taking ∼400 mg/d choline either via eggs or choline supplementation.

ACS Style

Bruno Lemos; Isabel Medina-Vera; Olga V. Malysheva; Marie A. Caudill; Maria Luz Fernandez. Effects of Egg Consumption and Choline Supplementation on Plasma Choline and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide in a Young Population. Journal of the American College of Nutrition 2018, 37, 716 -723.

AMA Style

Bruno Lemos, Isabel Medina-Vera, Olga V. Malysheva, Marie A. Caudill, Maria Luz Fernandez. Effects of Egg Consumption and Choline Supplementation on Plasma Choline and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide in a Young Population. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2018; 37 (8):716-723.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Bruno Lemos; Isabel Medina-Vera; Olga V. Malysheva; Marie A. Caudill; Maria Luz Fernandez. 2018. "Effects of Egg Consumption and Choline Supplementation on Plasma Choline and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide in a Young Population." Journal of the American College of Nutrition 37, no. 8: 716-723.

Journal article
Published: 30 April 2018 in Journal of Nutrition, Food Research and Technology
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Obesity is a prevalent health disease that has been associated with many metabolic disorders. As a risk for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide, dietary intervention or modifications are made to prevent or burden the effects of such pathology. On the other hand, added sugar is of great concern to the American population due to its association with diet induced obesity. Overconsumption of sweeteners is alarming since it can increase visceral fat, inflammation, and further lead to type II diabetes. The use of artificial sugar additives has increased and consequentlymore studies need to be done to explore adequate intake in various population groups, especially the diabetic. Ingestion of xylitol and erythritol, natural sweeteners, has gained popularity worldwide, yet not much is known about its metabolic effects and possible dosages that can be beneficial. Additional research needs to be done to explore the effectsof these sweeteners in the diabetic population

ACS Style

Maria Luz Fernandez; Maria Emilia S.M. Santos. Effects of consuming sweeteners on metabolic disorders. Journal of Nutrition, Food Research and Technology 2018, 1, 34 -38.

AMA Style

Maria Luz Fernandez, Maria Emilia S.M. Santos. Effects of consuming sweeteners on metabolic disorders. Journal of Nutrition, Food Research and Technology. 2018; 1 (2):34-38.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Maria Luz Fernandez; Maria Emilia S.M. Santos. 2018. "Effects of consuming sweeteners on metabolic disorders." Journal of Nutrition, Food Research and Technology 1, no. 2: 34-38.