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Papers by Suzanne Niblett

Research paper thumbnail of Evidence based model of the pathogenic mechanisms associated with symptom expression in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Evidence based model of the pathogenic mechanisms associated with symptom expression in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Research paper thumbnail of patients undergoing venoplasty of internal jugular vein stenoses: A pilot study Objective duplex ultrasound evaluation of the extracranial circulation in multiple sclerosis

patients undergoing venoplasty of internal jugular vein stenoses: A pilot study Objective duplex ultrasound evaluation of the extracranial circulation in multiple sclerosis

A new hemodynamic model for the study of cerebral venous outflow (PDF) (Full Text) (Abstract)

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D-related Nutrigenetics and Cognitive Decline in an Elderly Population

Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine

Background and objective: Vitamin D has been linked to brain function. To date, there have been l... more Background and objective: Vitamin D has been linked to brain function. To date, there have been limited studies investigating vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic polymorphisms and cognition. The objective of this study was, therefore, to examine whether any relationships exist between VDR polymorphisms and cognitive decline in an elderly population. Methods: Six hundred and fifty participants aged ≥ 65 years were recruited from the Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia, and were genotyped for 8 VDR polymorphisms (VDR-ApaI, VDR-BsmI, VDR-TaqI, VDR-FokI, VDR-Tru91, VDR-Cdx2, VDR-A1012G, and VDR-NIaIII). Gene variants were identified using polymerase chain reaction, followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and gel electrophoresis. Cognitive decline was measured using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE), while a self-administered food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate participants' dietary intake of vitamin D. Results: Odds ratio (OR) analysis found that VDR-BsmI and VDR-TaqI polymorphic alleles were both associated with increased risk of cognitive decline (OR = 1.55 and OR = 1.49, respectively). VDR-TaqI was also found to be significantly associated with MMSE score, following adjustment for age and sex (p = 0.0005). Examination of the distribution of VDR-TaqI genotypes showed that a greater proportion of participants with the homozygous recessive tt genotype had some degree of cognitive decline (24%). As might be predicted, a significant association was also observed between age and MMSE score (p = 0.015). When examined by sex, a significant relationship was found between age and MMSE for females (p ≤ 0.0001) but no relationship was observed in males. Dietary intake of vitamin D did not influence MMSE outcomes in this cohort. Conclusions: The VDR-BsmI and VDR-TaqI genetic polymorphisms are associated with cognitive decline in an elderly population.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Omega‐3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

Association Between Omega‐3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

The FASEB Journal

The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insul... more The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between erythrocyte n-3PUFA levels (Omega-3 Index) and T2D in older adults. A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65-95 years (n=548) was analysed. Outcome measures included: Omega-3 index (O3I; %EPA + %DHA); fasting blood glucose; plasma insulin; and HbA1c. HOMA-IR was calculated to determine insulin sensitivity. Odds ratio (OR) for T2D was calculated for each quartile of O3I using the lowest quartile as a reference. There was a significant inverse association between O3I and T2D in overweight and obese females, with an OR for T2D for the first to fourth quartiles respectively: 1.0 (reference), 0.82 (95% CI, 0.31-2.18), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.21-1.52), 0.22 (95% CI, 0.06-0.82) (P-trend=0.015). Similar trends were seen in overweight males however the relationship did not reach significan...

Research paper thumbnail of Coagulase-negative staphylococcal membrane-damaging toxins, pain intensity, and metabolic changes in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

Coagulase-negative staphylococcal membrane-damaging toxins, pain intensity, and metabolic changes in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

AIMS To investigate the association between toxin-producing staphylococci, symptom expression, an... more AIMS To investigate the association between toxin-producing staphylococci, symptom expression, and changes in urinary excretion of metabolites in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients and age- and sex-matched control subjects. METHODS Twenty-nine patients defined by the research diagnostic criteria/TMD as having Type 1a muscle pain (TMD1A), and 34 age- and sex-matched control subjects were assessed for the carriage of staphylococcal species, staphylococcal toxin production, expression of symptoms, and changes in urinary excretion of amino and organic acids. RESULTS TMD1A patients had an increased incidence of carriage of toxin-producing coagulase-negative staphylococcus (MDT-CoNS, P < .004), which produced increased levels of delta-like membrane-damaging toxins. The TMD1A patients also had a reduction in the incidence of carriage of Staphylococcus aureus (P < .02). Increased incidence of MDT-CoNS was positively associated with increased pain intensity as assessed by a visu...

Research paper thumbnail of Pain intensity, illness duration, and protein catabolism in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

AIMS To investigate whether the duration of chronic pain in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pati... more AIMS To investigate whether the duration of chronic pain in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients is associated with a net depletion of amino acids, and a distinct process from pain intensity. METHODS Twenty-nine patients defined by the research diagnostic criteria/TMD as having Type 1a muscle pain (TMD1A group), and 34 age- and sex-matched control subjects, were assessed for variation in urinary organic and amino acid excretion by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS The TMD1A patients' mean pain intensity, assessed on a visual analog scale (VAS), was 5.4 (95% confidence limits: 4.5 to 6.3), TMD1A illness duration was 5.0 +/- 1.2 (SD) years, number of body areas with pain/subject was 6.3 +/- 2.4 (range 0 to 10), and symptom prevalence from the Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) was 25.5 +/- 11.3 symptoms/subject, which was higher than the controls (5.2 +/- 5.0 symptoms/subject, P < .001). TMD1A patient illness duration was positively correlated with sympto...

Research paper thumbnail of InsuTAG: A novel physiologically relevant predictor for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome

Scientific Reports

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a novel physiologically relevant marker, InsuTAG... more The aim of this study was to investigate whether a novel physiologically relevant marker, InsuTAG (fasting insulin × fasting triglycerides) can predict insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Data of 618 participants from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) were evaluated for the current study. IR was defined by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR) scores. Pearson correlations were used to examine the associations of InsuTAG with HOMA-IR and other markers. Predictions of IR from InsuTAG were evaluated using multiple regression models. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were constructed to measure the sensitivity and specificity of InsuTAG values and to determine the optimum cutoff point for prediction of IR. InsuTAG was positively correlated with HOMA-IR (r = 0.86; p < 0.0001). InsuTAG is a strong predictor of IR accounting for 65.0% of the variation in HOMA-IR values after adjusting for potential confounders. Areas under the ROC curve showed that InsuTAG (0.93) has higher value than other known lipid markers for predicting IR, with a sensitivity and specificity of 84.15% and 86.88%. Prevalence of MetS was significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in subjects with InsuTAG values greater than optimal cutoff value of 11.2. Thus, InsuTAG appears to be a potential feasible marker of IR and metabolic syndrome.

Research paper thumbnail of Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study: Australian Neighborhood Environments and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study: Australian Neighborhood Environments and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Environment and Behavior

The aim of this study was to compare the walkability of neighborhood environments of older adults... more The aim of this study was to compare the walkability of neighborhood environments of older adults (65 years and above) living in the general community and retirement village settings, and to describe associations between walkability and the physical activity of participants. The study was conducted in a coastal region of Australia largely characterized by urban sprawl. In 2011-2012, 292 participant neighborhoods (400 m radius around each home) were audited using the Irvine-Minnesota Inventory. Having validated a local adaptation of this tool, we compared neighborhood environments in the two settings. We found no association between walkability of the built environment and walking behavior of participants. Although retirement village residents lived in more highly walkable environments, they did not walk more and their overall levels of physical activity were lower than those of community residents.

Research paper thumbnail of N-3 pufa status predicts non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older Australians

N-3 pufa status predicts non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

s / Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism 1 (2014) 1e55 9 4 School of Environmental&... more s / Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism 1 (2014) 1e55 9 4 School of Environmental& Life Sciences, UniversityofNewcastle, NSW,Australia E-mail: Edwina.Mingay@uon.edu.au (E. Mingay) Background/Aims: Restricting energy intake for weight management in older people is neither safe nor practical as nutrient depletion may result in impairment of an already compromised immune system. Alternative strategies to combat adiposity without pre-disposing older people to infectious diseases are warranted. n-3PUFA may play an important role through their impact on increased fat oxidation and reduced inflammation. This study aimed to examine the relationship between n-3PUFA status and anthropometric measures in an older population. Methods: Older adults (n 1⁄4 620; age 65-95 years; 56.3% females) from the Central Coast region, NSW, Australia were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, BMI, waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were taken. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via GC to determine n-3PUFA status (%EPA plus % DHA). Results: A negative association was detected between n-3PUFA status and anthropometric measures: BMI (r 1⁄4 -0.08, p 60) suggestive of NAFLD. n-3PUFA status was significantly lower in participants with NAFLD compared to those NAFLD (p < 0.05). A significant inverse relationship was found between n-3PUFA status and FLI (r 1⁄4 -0.153; p < 0.001). Sex differences were evident, with women but not men showing a significant association between n-3PUFA status and FLI (r 1⁄4 -0.192; p < 0.015). Conclusions: This study demonstrated a sex-dependent inverse relationship between n-3PUFA status and NAFLD in an older population, paving the way for an n-3PUFA intervention trial in this high risk age group. Funding source(s): ARC. BASELINE OMEGA-3 INDEX CORRELATES WITH AGGRESSIVE AND ATTENTION DEFICIT BEHAVIOURS IN ADULT PRISONERS B.J. Meyer , M.K. Byrne , C. Collier , N. Parletta , D. Crawford , P.C. Winberg , D. Webster , K. Chapman , G. Thomas , J. Dally , M. Batterham , I. Farquhar , L. Grant . 1 School of Medicine, University of Wollongong (UOW), NSW, Australia; 2 School of Psychology, UOW, NSW, Australia; 3 South Coast Correctional Centre, Nowra, NSW, Australia; 4 School of Population Health, University of South Australia, Australia; Venus Shell Systems, NSW, Australia; 6 Statistical Consulting Service, UOW, Australia; NSW Department of Corrective Services, Australia E-mail: bmeyer@uow.edu.au (B.J. Meyer) Background/Aims: There is no published data on the omega-3 index in prison populations in relation to mental health. We aim to determine if the variance of the baseline omega-3 index is correlated with aggressive and attention deficit behaviours in a prison population. Methods: One hundred and thirty six adult male prisoners were recruited from South Coast Correctional Centre (SCCC), NSW Australia. A 7-point categorisation was used to quantify levels of aggressive behaviour (four weeks) from individual SCCC case notes, whereby higher scores correspond to increasingly aggressive behaviour. At baseline, study participants completed an Aggression Questionnaire (AQ) and the Brown’s Attention Deficit Disorder Scales (BADDS), provided a blood sample for erythrocyte fatty acid analysis using GC and the omega-3 index was calculated. Results: The baseline omega-3 index ranged from 2.3% to 10.3% with a median of 4.7%, indicating that some participants already had substantial omega-3 intake. Assessment of aggressive and attention deficit behaviour shows that there were negative correlations between baseline omega-3 index and baseline aggression categorisation scores (r 1⁄4 0.21, p 1⁄4 0.016); total AQ score (r 1⁄4 0.234, p 1⁄4 0.011); Anger (r 1⁄4 0.222, p 1⁄4 0.016); Hostility AQ (r 1⁄4 0.239, p 1⁄4 0.009); indirect aggression (r 1⁄4 0.188 p 1⁄4 0.042); total BADDS (r 1⁄4 0.263, p 1⁄4 0.005); Activation (r 1⁄4 0.224, p 1⁄4 0.016); Attention (r 1⁄4 0.192, p 1⁄4 0.043); Effort (r 1⁄4 0.253, p 1⁄4 0.007); Affect (r 1⁄4 0.330, p < 0.001) and Memory (r 1⁄4 0.240, p 1⁄4 0.010). Conclusions: There is a high variability on baseline omega-3 status of a NSW prison population, and inmates with lower omega-3 index were more aggressive and had higher ADD scores. Funding source(s): UOW, NSW Department of Corrective Services. DISTINGUISHING THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL FATE OF DIETARY EPA AND DHA IN ATLANTIC SALMON G.M. Turchini , J.A. Emery , J. Trushenski , F. Norambuena . 1 School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC, Australia; Center for Fisheries Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Southern Illinois University

Research paper thumbnail of N-3 pufa status is inversely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in older Australians

N-3 pufa status is inversely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Erythrocyte long chain n-3 pufa level is a predictor of body weight status in older Australians

Erythrocyte long chain n-3 pufa level is a predictor of body weight status in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of A TAS2R38 genotype dependent response to mandatory folic acid fortification: A comparison of two elderly cohorts

A TAS2R38 genotype dependent response to mandatory folic acid fortification: A comparison of two elderly cohorts

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Reduced plasma homocysteine levels in elderly Australians following mandatory folic acid fortification – A comparison of two cross-sectional cohorts

Reduced plasma homocysteine levels in elderly Australians following mandatory folic acid fortification – A comparison of two cross-sectional cohorts

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients

Temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients

American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2017

The temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory... more The temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients under various environmental conditions were evaluated. A prospective, descriptive survey of temperature exposure was conducted in 4 publically funded hospitals. Over a 12-month period, electronic temperature-recording devices were attached to the antibiotic infusion devices (infusers) of prospectively randomized hospital-in-the-home (HITH) participants. Temperatures were recorded immediately after infuser connection and every 5 minutes thereafter for 24 hours. A structured data collection form was used to collect information on basic clinical and demographic characteristics and aspects of daily living (i.e., how and where the infuser was carried during the day, times the participant went to and arose from bed, location of the infuser while sleeping, and dates and times the infuser was connected and disconnected). A total of 115 patients successfully completed the study (17...

Research paper thumbnail of Sex-dependent association between omega-3 index and body weight status in older Australians

Sex-dependent association between omega-3 index and body weight status in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Abstract Background/objectives Restricting energy intake for weight management in older adults ha... more Abstract Background/objectives Restricting energy intake for weight management in older adults has potential to adversely affect nutritional status and result in impairment of an already compromised immune system. Investigation of alternative strategies to combat adiposity and sustain lean muscle mass in older adults are warranted to minimise the risk of developing chronic diseases. Long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn-3PUFA), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may play an important role through their impact on increased fat oxidation and reduced inflammation. This study aimed to examine the association between erythrocyte membrane LCn-3PUFA and anthropometric measures in an older population. Subjects/methods A cross-sectional sample of older adults (n = 620; age 65–95 years; 56.3% females) from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) was analysed. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were taken. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via gas chromatography (GC) to determine the omega-3 index (%EPA plus %DHA). Results An inverse association was detected between the omega-3 index and anthropometric measures, BMI (r = −0.076, p =0.06), WC (r = −0.118, p p p p Conclusions Omega-3 status was associated with weight status, particularly in older women but not in men. These results suggest the need for sex-based intervention trials to examine the role of dietary intake and/or supplementation of LCn-3PUFA in weight management of older adults.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and fatty liver index in older people is sex dependent

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Background/Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in older peo... more Background/Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in older people but currently no specific drugs are available for its treatment. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3PUFA), known for their lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive properties, may have therapeutic potential for the management of NAFLD. The aim of this study was to determine whether n-3PUFA levels are associated with the prevalence of NAFLD in older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65e95 years (n ¼ 620) from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) was analysed. Fatty Liver Index (FLI) scores, used as an indicator of NAFLD risk, were calculated using a validated algorithm that incorporates body mass index, waist circumference, plasma triglycerides and g-glutamyl transferase. Omega-3 index scores (O3I, %eicosapentaenoic acid plus %docosahexaenoic acid) were determined by analysing the fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes by gas chromatography. Results: Following application of exclusion criteria, 475 participants were included in the analysis (age 77.9 ± 7.0 years; 60.4% females). Of these, 216 participants had FLI scores (!60) suggestive of NAFLD (age 77.0 ± 6.6 years; 49.1% females). O3I was significantly lower in participants with NAFLD compared to those without NAFLD (p < 0.01). A significant inverse relationship was found between O3I and FLI (r ¼ À0.165; p < 0.001). This relationship was gender specific with women, but not men, showing a significant association (r ¼ À0.206; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The current study demonstrated a sex-dependent inverse relationship between erythrocyte n-3PUFA concentrations and NAFLD in older adults. The finding supports the proposal for sex-stratified n-3PUFA intervention trials in this high-risk age group.

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship between methylation status of vitamin D-related genes, vitamin D levels, and methyl-donor biochemistry

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Vitamin D is known for its role in the regulation of gene expression via the vitamin D receptor, ... more Vitamin D is known for its role in the regulation of gene expression via the vitamin D receptor, a nuclear transcription factor. More recently, a role for vitamin D in regulating DNA methylation has been identified as an additional mechanism of modulation of gene expression. How methylation status influences vitamin D metabolism and response pathways is not yet clear. Therefore, we aimed to assess the relationship between plasma 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D) and the methylation status of vitamin D metabolism enzyme genes (CYP2R1, CYP27B1 and CYP24A1) and the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR). This analysis was conducted in the context of dietary vitamin D, and background methyl donor related biochemistry, with adjustment for several dietary and lifestyle variables. Percentage methylation at CpG sites was assessed in peripheral blood cells using methylation sensitive and dependent enzymes and qPCR. Standard analytical techniques were used to determine plasma 25(OH)D and homocysteine, and serum folate and B12, with the relationship to methylation status assessed using multi-variable regression analysis. CYP2R1 and VDR methylation were found to be independent predictors of plasma 25(OH)D, when adjusted for vitamin D intake and other lifestyle variables. CYP24A1 was related to plasma 25(OH)D directly, but not in the context of vitamin D intake. Methyl-group donor biochemistry was associated with the methylation status of some genes, but did not alter the relationship between methylation and plasma 25(OH)D. Modulation of methylation status of CYP2R1, CYP24A1 and VDR in response to plasma 25(OH)D may be part of feedback loops involved in maintaining vitamin D homeostasis, and may explain a portion of the variance in plasma 25(OH)D levels in response to intake and sun exposure. Methyl-group donor biochemistry, while a potential independent modulator, did not alter this effect.

Research paper thumbnail of Erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels are associated with biomarkers of inflammation in older Australians

Erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels are associated with biomarkers of inflammation in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Abstract Background Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory mediators heighten the risk of developing... more Abstract Background Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory mediators heighten the risk of developing or aggravating a spectrum of chronic diseases and are a strong predictor of mortality in elderly cohorts. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3PUFA), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. However, the relationship between erythrocyte membrane n-3PUFA and inflammation biomarkers has not been well established. Objective This study aimed to determine if n-3PUFA status, together with the omega-3 index (O3I, erythrocyte membrane % EPA plus DHA), is associated with pro-inflammatory mediators in older Australians. Methods The study was a cross-sectional analysis of randomly selected older men and women aged ≥65 years (n = 620) recruited from the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Fasted blood samples were analysed for C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen and full blood count using standardised laboratory methods. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via gas chromatography to determine n-3PUFA levels. The relationships between n-3PUFA and inflammatory mediators were evaluated in multivariate regression models after adjusting for known inflammatory confounders. Results After excluding participants who had an inflammatory disease, CRP levels >10 mg/L, or who were taking anti-inflammatory medications or n-3PUFA supplements, 126 participants (age 77.6 ± 7.3 years; females, 46%) were included in the analysis. After multivariate adjustments, O3I was inversely associated with CRP (β = −0.209, p Conclusions This study demonstrated a negative association between O3I and biomarkers of inflammation in an older population. The findings support a potential role for n-3PUFA supplementation in the management of inflammatory diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Omega-3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

Association Between Omega-3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

The Faseb Journal, Apr 1, 2015

The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insul... more The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between erythrocyte n-3PUFA levels (Omega-3 Index) and T2D in older adults. A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65-95 years (n=548) was analysed. Outcome measures included: Omega-3 index (O3I; %EPA + %DHA); fasting blood glucose; plasma insulin; and HbA1c. HOMA-IR was calculated to determine insulin sensitivity. Odds ratio (OR) for T2D was calculated for each quartile of O3I using the lowest quartile as a reference. There was a significant inverse association between O3I and T2D in overweight and obese females, with an OR for T2D for the first to fourth quartiles respectively: 1.0 (reference), 0.82 (95% CI, 0.31-2.18), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.21-1.52), 0.22 (95% CI, 0.06-0.82) (P-trend=0.015). Similar trends were seen in overweight males however the relationship did not reach significan...

Research paper thumbnail of Sex-dependent association between erythrocyte n-3 PUFA and type 2 diabetes in older overweight people

The British journal of nutrition, Jan 18, 2016

The association between n-3 PUFA intake and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear, and studies relatin... more The association between n-3 PUFA intake and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear, and studies relating objective biomarkers of n-3 PUFA consumption to diabetic status remain limited. The aim of this study was to determine whether erythrocyte n-3 PUFA levels (n-3 index; n-3I) are associated with T2D in a cohort of older adults (n 608). To achieve this, the n-3I (erythrocyte %EPA+%DHA) was determined by GC and associated with fasting blood glucose; HbA1c; and plasma insulin. Insulin resistance (IR) was assessed using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA--IR). OR for T2D were calculated for each quartile of n-3I. In all, eighty-two type 2 diabetic (46·3 % female; 76·7 (sd 5·9) years) and 466 non-diabetic (57·9 % female; 77·8 (sd 7·1) years) individuals were included in the analysis. In overweight/obese (BMI≥27 kg/m2), the prevalence of T2D decreased across ascending n-3I quartiles: 1·0 (reference), 0·82 (95 % CI 0·31, 2·18), 0·56 (95 % CI 0·21, 1·52) and 0·22 (95 % ...

Research paper thumbnail of Evidence based model of the pathogenic mechanisms associated with symptom expression in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Evidence based model of the pathogenic mechanisms associated with symptom expression in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Research paper thumbnail of patients undergoing venoplasty of internal jugular vein stenoses: A pilot study Objective duplex ultrasound evaluation of the extracranial circulation in multiple sclerosis

patients undergoing venoplasty of internal jugular vein stenoses: A pilot study Objective duplex ultrasound evaluation of the extracranial circulation in multiple sclerosis

A new hemodynamic model for the study of cerebral venous outflow (PDF) (Full Text) (Abstract)

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin D-related Nutrigenetics and Cognitive Decline in an Elderly Population

Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine

Background and objective: Vitamin D has been linked to brain function. To date, there have been l... more Background and objective: Vitamin D has been linked to brain function. To date, there have been limited studies investigating vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic polymorphisms and cognition. The objective of this study was, therefore, to examine whether any relationships exist between VDR polymorphisms and cognitive decline in an elderly population. Methods: Six hundred and fifty participants aged ≥ 65 years were recruited from the Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia, and were genotyped for 8 VDR polymorphisms (VDR-ApaI, VDR-BsmI, VDR-TaqI, VDR-FokI, VDR-Tru91, VDR-Cdx2, VDR-A1012G, and VDR-NIaIII). Gene variants were identified using polymerase chain reaction, followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and gel electrophoresis. Cognitive decline was measured using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE), while a self-administered food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate participants' dietary intake of vitamin D. Results: Odds ratio (OR) analysis found that VDR-BsmI and VDR-TaqI polymorphic alleles were both associated with increased risk of cognitive decline (OR = 1.55 and OR = 1.49, respectively). VDR-TaqI was also found to be significantly associated with MMSE score, following adjustment for age and sex (p = 0.0005). Examination of the distribution of VDR-TaqI genotypes showed that a greater proportion of participants with the homozygous recessive tt genotype had some degree of cognitive decline (24%). As might be predicted, a significant association was also observed between age and MMSE score (p = 0.015). When examined by sex, a significant relationship was found between age and MMSE for females (p ≤ 0.0001) but no relationship was observed in males. Dietary intake of vitamin D did not influence MMSE outcomes in this cohort. Conclusions: The VDR-BsmI and VDR-TaqI genetic polymorphisms are associated with cognitive decline in an elderly population.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Omega‐3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

Association Between Omega‐3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

The FASEB Journal

The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insul... more The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between erythrocyte n-3PUFA levels (Omega-3 Index) and T2D in older adults. A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65-95 years (n=548) was analysed. Outcome measures included: Omega-3 index (O3I; %EPA + %DHA); fasting blood glucose; plasma insulin; and HbA1c. HOMA-IR was calculated to determine insulin sensitivity. Odds ratio (OR) for T2D was calculated for each quartile of O3I using the lowest quartile as a reference. There was a significant inverse association between O3I and T2D in overweight and obese females, with an OR for T2D for the first to fourth quartiles respectively: 1.0 (reference), 0.82 (95% CI, 0.31-2.18), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.21-1.52), 0.22 (95% CI, 0.06-0.82) (P-trend=0.015). Similar trends were seen in overweight males however the relationship did not reach significan...

Research paper thumbnail of Coagulase-negative staphylococcal membrane-damaging toxins, pain intensity, and metabolic changes in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

Coagulase-negative staphylococcal membrane-damaging toxins, pain intensity, and metabolic changes in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

AIMS To investigate the association between toxin-producing staphylococci, symptom expression, an... more AIMS To investigate the association between toxin-producing staphylococci, symptom expression, and changes in urinary excretion of metabolites in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients and age- and sex-matched control subjects. METHODS Twenty-nine patients defined by the research diagnostic criteria/TMD as having Type 1a muscle pain (TMD1A), and 34 age- and sex-matched control subjects were assessed for the carriage of staphylococcal species, staphylococcal toxin production, expression of symptoms, and changes in urinary excretion of amino and organic acids. RESULTS TMD1A patients had an increased incidence of carriage of toxin-producing coagulase-negative staphylococcus (MDT-CoNS, P < .004), which produced increased levels of delta-like membrane-damaging toxins. The TMD1A patients also had a reduction in the incidence of carriage of Staphylococcus aureus (P < .02). Increased incidence of MDT-CoNS was positively associated with increased pain intensity as assessed by a visu...

Research paper thumbnail of Pain intensity, illness duration, and protein catabolism in temporomandibular disorder patients with chronic muscle pain

AIMS To investigate whether the duration of chronic pain in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pati... more AIMS To investigate whether the duration of chronic pain in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients is associated with a net depletion of amino acids, and a distinct process from pain intensity. METHODS Twenty-nine patients defined by the research diagnostic criteria/TMD as having Type 1a muscle pain (TMD1A group), and 34 age- and sex-matched control subjects, were assessed for variation in urinary organic and amino acid excretion by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS The TMD1A patients' mean pain intensity, assessed on a visual analog scale (VAS), was 5.4 (95% confidence limits: 4.5 to 6.3), TMD1A illness duration was 5.0 +/- 1.2 (SD) years, number of body areas with pain/subject was 6.3 +/- 2.4 (range 0 to 10), and symptom prevalence from the Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) was 25.5 +/- 11.3 symptoms/subject, which was higher than the controls (5.2 +/- 5.0 symptoms/subject, P < .001). TMD1A patient illness duration was positively correlated with sympto...

Research paper thumbnail of InsuTAG: A novel physiologically relevant predictor for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome

Scientific Reports

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a novel physiologically relevant marker, InsuTAG... more The aim of this study was to investigate whether a novel physiologically relevant marker, InsuTAG (fasting insulin × fasting triglycerides) can predict insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Data of 618 participants from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) were evaluated for the current study. IR was defined by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR) scores. Pearson correlations were used to examine the associations of InsuTAG with HOMA-IR and other markers. Predictions of IR from InsuTAG were evaluated using multiple regression models. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were constructed to measure the sensitivity and specificity of InsuTAG values and to determine the optimum cutoff point for prediction of IR. InsuTAG was positively correlated with HOMA-IR (r = 0.86; p < 0.0001). InsuTAG is a strong predictor of IR accounting for 65.0% of the variation in HOMA-IR values after adjusting for potential confounders. Areas under the ROC curve showed that InsuTAG (0.93) has higher value than other known lipid markers for predicting IR, with a sensitivity and specificity of 84.15% and 86.88%. Prevalence of MetS was significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in subjects with InsuTAG values greater than optimal cutoff value of 11.2. Thus, InsuTAG appears to be a potential feasible marker of IR and metabolic syndrome.

Research paper thumbnail of Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study: Australian Neighborhood Environments and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study: Australian Neighborhood Environments and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Environment and Behavior

The aim of this study was to compare the walkability of neighborhood environments of older adults... more The aim of this study was to compare the walkability of neighborhood environments of older adults (65 years and above) living in the general community and retirement village settings, and to describe associations between walkability and the physical activity of participants. The study was conducted in a coastal region of Australia largely characterized by urban sprawl. In 2011-2012, 292 participant neighborhoods (400 m radius around each home) were audited using the Irvine-Minnesota Inventory. Having validated a local adaptation of this tool, we compared neighborhood environments in the two settings. We found no association between walkability of the built environment and walking behavior of participants. Although retirement village residents lived in more highly walkable environments, they did not walk more and their overall levels of physical activity were lower than those of community residents.

Research paper thumbnail of N-3 pufa status predicts non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older Australians

N-3 pufa status predicts non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

s / Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism 1 (2014) 1e55 9 4 School of Environmental&... more s / Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism 1 (2014) 1e55 9 4 School of Environmental& Life Sciences, UniversityofNewcastle, NSW,Australia E-mail: Edwina.Mingay@uon.edu.au (E. Mingay) Background/Aims: Restricting energy intake for weight management in older people is neither safe nor practical as nutrient depletion may result in impairment of an already compromised immune system. Alternative strategies to combat adiposity without pre-disposing older people to infectious diseases are warranted. n-3PUFA may play an important role through their impact on increased fat oxidation and reduced inflammation. This study aimed to examine the relationship between n-3PUFA status and anthropometric measures in an older population. Methods: Older adults (n 1⁄4 620; age 65-95 years; 56.3% females) from the Central Coast region, NSW, Australia were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, BMI, waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were taken. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via GC to determine n-3PUFA status (%EPA plus % DHA). Results: A negative association was detected between n-3PUFA status and anthropometric measures: BMI (r 1⁄4 -0.08, p 60) suggestive of NAFLD. n-3PUFA status was significantly lower in participants with NAFLD compared to those NAFLD (p < 0.05). A significant inverse relationship was found between n-3PUFA status and FLI (r 1⁄4 -0.153; p < 0.001). Sex differences were evident, with women but not men showing a significant association between n-3PUFA status and FLI (r 1⁄4 -0.192; p < 0.015). Conclusions: This study demonstrated a sex-dependent inverse relationship between n-3PUFA status and NAFLD in an older population, paving the way for an n-3PUFA intervention trial in this high risk age group. Funding source(s): ARC. BASELINE OMEGA-3 INDEX CORRELATES WITH AGGRESSIVE AND ATTENTION DEFICIT BEHAVIOURS IN ADULT PRISONERS B.J. Meyer , M.K. Byrne , C. Collier , N. Parletta , D. Crawford , P.C. Winberg , D. Webster , K. Chapman , G. Thomas , J. Dally , M. Batterham , I. Farquhar , L. Grant . 1 School of Medicine, University of Wollongong (UOW), NSW, Australia; 2 School of Psychology, UOW, NSW, Australia; 3 South Coast Correctional Centre, Nowra, NSW, Australia; 4 School of Population Health, University of South Australia, Australia; Venus Shell Systems, NSW, Australia; 6 Statistical Consulting Service, UOW, Australia; NSW Department of Corrective Services, Australia E-mail: bmeyer@uow.edu.au (B.J. Meyer) Background/Aims: There is no published data on the omega-3 index in prison populations in relation to mental health. We aim to determine if the variance of the baseline omega-3 index is correlated with aggressive and attention deficit behaviours in a prison population. Methods: One hundred and thirty six adult male prisoners were recruited from South Coast Correctional Centre (SCCC), NSW Australia. A 7-point categorisation was used to quantify levels of aggressive behaviour (four weeks) from individual SCCC case notes, whereby higher scores correspond to increasingly aggressive behaviour. At baseline, study participants completed an Aggression Questionnaire (AQ) and the Brown’s Attention Deficit Disorder Scales (BADDS), provided a blood sample for erythrocyte fatty acid analysis using GC and the omega-3 index was calculated. Results: The baseline omega-3 index ranged from 2.3% to 10.3% with a median of 4.7%, indicating that some participants already had substantial omega-3 intake. Assessment of aggressive and attention deficit behaviour shows that there were negative correlations between baseline omega-3 index and baseline aggression categorisation scores (r 1⁄4 0.21, p 1⁄4 0.016); total AQ score (r 1⁄4 0.234, p 1⁄4 0.011); Anger (r 1⁄4 0.222, p 1⁄4 0.016); Hostility AQ (r 1⁄4 0.239, p 1⁄4 0.009); indirect aggression (r 1⁄4 0.188 p 1⁄4 0.042); total BADDS (r 1⁄4 0.263, p 1⁄4 0.005); Activation (r 1⁄4 0.224, p 1⁄4 0.016); Attention (r 1⁄4 0.192, p 1⁄4 0.043); Effort (r 1⁄4 0.253, p 1⁄4 0.007); Affect (r 1⁄4 0.330, p < 0.001) and Memory (r 1⁄4 0.240, p 1⁄4 0.010). Conclusions: There is a high variability on baseline omega-3 status of a NSW prison population, and inmates with lower omega-3 index were more aggressive and had higher ADD scores. Funding source(s): UOW, NSW Department of Corrective Services. DISTINGUISHING THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL FATE OF DIETARY EPA AND DHA IN ATLANTIC SALMON G.M. Turchini , J.A. Emery , J. Trushenski , F. Norambuena . 1 School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, VIC, Australia; Center for Fisheries Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Southern Illinois University

Research paper thumbnail of N-3 pufa status is inversely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in older Australians

N-3 pufa status is inversely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Erythrocyte long chain n-3 pufa level is a predictor of body weight status in older Australians

Erythrocyte long chain n-3 pufa level is a predictor of body weight status in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of A TAS2R38 genotype dependent response to mandatory folic acid fortification: A comparison of two elderly cohorts

A TAS2R38 genotype dependent response to mandatory folic acid fortification: A comparison of two elderly cohorts

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Reduced plasma homocysteine levels in elderly Australians following mandatory folic acid fortification – A comparison of two cross-sectional cohorts

Reduced plasma homocysteine levels in elderly Australians following mandatory folic acid fortification – A comparison of two cross-sectional cohorts

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism

Research paper thumbnail of Temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients

Temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients

American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2017

The temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory... more The temperature profiles of antibiotic-containing elastomeric infusion devices used by ambulatory care patients under various environmental conditions were evaluated. A prospective, descriptive survey of temperature exposure was conducted in 4 publically funded hospitals. Over a 12-month period, electronic temperature-recording devices were attached to the antibiotic infusion devices (infusers) of prospectively randomized hospital-in-the-home (HITH) participants. Temperatures were recorded immediately after infuser connection and every 5 minutes thereafter for 24 hours. A structured data collection form was used to collect information on basic clinical and demographic characteristics and aspects of daily living (i.e., how and where the infuser was carried during the day, times the participant went to and arose from bed, location of the infuser while sleeping, and dates and times the infuser was connected and disconnected). A total of 115 patients successfully completed the study (17...

Research paper thumbnail of Sex-dependent association between omega-3 index and body weight status in older Australians

Sex-dependent association between omega-3 index and body weight status in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Abstract Background/objectives Restricting energy intake for weight management in older adults ha... more Abstract Background/objectives Restricting energy intake for weight management in older adults has potential to adversely affect nutritional status and result in impairment of an already compromised immune system. Investigation of alternative strategies to combat adiposity and sustain lean muscle mass in older adults are warranted to minimise the risk of developing chronic diseases. Long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn-3PUFA), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may play an important role through their impact on increased fat oxidation and reduced inflammation. This study aimed to examine the association between erythrocyte membrane LCn-3PUFA and anthropometric measures in an older population. Subjects/methods A cross-sectional sample of older adults (n = 620; age 65–95 years; 56.3% females) from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) was analysed. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were taken. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via gas chromatography (GC) to determine the omega-3 index (%EPA plus %DHA). Results An inverse association was detected between the omega-3 index and anthropometric measures, BMI (r = −0.076, p =0.06), WC (r = −0.118, p p p p Conclusions Omega-3 status was associated with weight status, particularly in older women but not in men. These results suggest the need for sex-based intervention trials to examine the role of dietary intake and/or supplementation of LCn-3PUFA in weight management of older adults.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and fatty liver index in older people is sex dependent

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Background/Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in older peo... more Background/Objectives: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in older people but currently no specific drugs are available for its treatment. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3PUFA), known for their lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive properties, may have therapeutic potential for the management of NAFLD. The aim of this study was to determine whether n-3PUFA levels are associated with the prevalence of NAFLD in older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65e95 years (n ¼ 620) from the Retirement Health and Lifestyle Study (RHLS) was analysed. Fatty Liver Index (FLI) scores, used as an indicator of NAFLD risk, were calculated using a validated algorithm that incorporates body mass index, waist circumference, plasma triglycerides and g-glutamyl transferase. Omega-3 index scores (O3I, %eicosapentaenoic acid plus %docosahexaenoic acid) were determined by analysing the fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes by gas chromatography. Results: Following application of exclusion criteria, 475 participants were included in the analysis (age 77.9 ± 7.0 years; 60.4% females). Of these, 216 participants had FLI scores (!60) suggestive of NAFLD (age 77.0 ± 6.6 years; 49.1% females). O3I was significantly lower in participants with NAFLD compared to those without NAFLD (p < 0.01). A significant inverse relationship was found between O3I and FLI (r ¼ À0.165; p < 0.001). This relationship was gender specific with women, but not men, showing a significant association (r ¼ À0.206; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The current study demonstrated a sex-dependent inverse relationship between erythrocyte n-3PUFA concentrations and NAFLD in older adults. The finding supports the proposal for sex-stratified n-3PUFA intervention trials in this high-risk age group.

Research paper thumbnail of Relationship between methylation status of vitamin D-related genes, vitamin D levels, and methyl-donor biochemistry

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Vitamin D is known for its role in the regulation of gene expression via the vitamin D receptor, ... more Vitamin D is known for its role in the regulation of gene expression via the vitamin D receptor, a nuclear transcription factor. More recently, a role for vitamin D in regulating DNA methylation has been identified as an additional mechanism of modulation of gene expression. How methylation status influences vitamin D metabolism and response pathways is not yet clear. Therefore, we aimed to assess the relationship between plasma 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D) and the methylation status of vitamin D metabolism enzyme genes (CYP2R1, CYP27B1 and CYP24A1) and the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR). This analysis was conducted in the context of dietary vitamin D, and background methyl donor related biochemistry, with adjustment for several dietary and lifestyle variables. Percentage methylation at CpG sites was assessed in peripheral blood cells using methylation sensitive and dependent enzymes and qPCR. Standard analytical techniques were used to determine plasma 25(OH)D and homocysteine, and serum folate and B12, with the relationship to methylation status assessed using multi-variable regression analysis. CYP2R1 and VDR methylation were found to be independent predictors of plasma 25(OH)D, when adjusted for vitamin D intake and other lifestyle variables. CYP24A1 was related to plasma 25(OH)D directly, but not in the context of vitamin D intake. Methyl-group donor biochemistry was associated with the methylation status of some genes, but did not alter the relationship between methylation and plasma 25(OH)D. Modulation of methylation status of CYP2R1, CYP24A1 and VDR in response to plasma 25(OH)D may be part of feedback loops involved in maintaining vitamin D homeostasis, and may explain a portion of the variance in plasma 25(OH)D levels in response to intake and sun exposure. Methyl-group donor biochemistry, while a potential independent modulator, did not alter this effect.

Research paper thumbnail of Erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels are associated with biomarkers of inflammation in older Australians

Erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels are associated with biomarkers of inflammation in older Australians

Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism, 2016

Abstract Background Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory mediators heighten the risk of developing... more Abstract Background Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory mediators heighten the risk of developing or aggravating a spectrum of chronic diseases and are a strong predictor of mortality in elderly cohorts. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3PUFA), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. However, the relationship between erythrocyte membrane n-3PUFA and inflammation biomarkers has not been well established. Objective This study aimed to determine if n-3PUFA status, together with the omega-3 index (O3I, erythrocyte membrane % EPA plus DHA), is associated with pro-inflammatory mediators in older Australians. Methods The study was a cross-sectional analysis of randomly selected older men and women aged ≥65 years (n = 620) recruited from the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Fasted blood samples were analysed for C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen and full blood count using standardised laboratory methods. The fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes was analysed via gas chromatography to determine n-3PUFA levels. The relationships between n-3PUFA and inflammatory mediators were evaluated in multivariate regression models after adjusting for known inflammatory confounders. Results After excluding participants who had an inflammatory disease, CRP levels >10 mg/L, or who were taking anti-inflammatory medications or n-3PUFA supplements, 126 participants (age 77.6 ± 7.3 years; females, 46%) were included in the analysis. After multivariate adjustments, O3I was inversely associated with CRP (β = −0.209, p Conclusions This study demonstrated a negative association between O3I and biomarkers of inflammation in an older population. The findings support a potential role for n-3PUFA supplementation in the management of inflammatory diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Omega-3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

Association Between Omega-3 Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Older Overweight/Obese People is Sex Dependent

The Faseb Journal, Apr 1, 2015

The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insul... more The association between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3PUFA) deficiency and insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between erythrocyte n-3PUFA levels (Omega-3 Index) and T2D in older adults. A cross-sectional sample of older adults aged 65-95 years (n=548) was analysed. Outcome measures included: Omega-3 index (O3I; %EPA + %DHA); fasting blood glucose; plasma insulin; and HbA1c. HOMA-IR was calculated to determine insulin sensitivity. Odds ratio (OR) for T2D was calculated for each quartile of O3I using the lowest quartile as a reference. There was a significant inverse association between O3I and T2D in overweight and obese females, with an OR for T2D for the first to fourth quartiles respectively: 1.0 (reference), 0.82 (95% CI, 0.31-2.18), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.21-1.52), 0.22 (95% CI, 0.06-0.82) (P-trend=0.015). Similar trends were seen in overweight males however the relationship did not reach significan...

Research paper thumbnail of Sex-dependent association between erythrocyte n-3 PUFA and type 2 diabetes in older overweight people

The British journal of nutrition, Jan 18, 2016

The association between n-3 PUFA intake and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear, and studies relatin... more The association between n-3 PUFA intake and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is unclear, and studies relating objective biomarkers of n-3 PUFA consumption to diabetic status remain limited. The aim of this study was to determine whether erythrocyte n-3 PUFA levels (n-3 index; n-3I) are associated with T2D in a cohort of older adults (n 608). To achieve this, the n-3I (erythrocyte %EPA+%DHA) was determined by GC and associated with fasting blood glucose; HbA1c; and plasma insulin. Insulin resistance (IR) was assessed using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA--IR). OR for T2D were calculated for each quartile of n-3I. In all, eighty-two type 2 diabetic (46·3 % female; 76·7 (sd 5·9) years) and 466 non-diabetic (57·9 % female; 77·8 (sd 7·1) years) individuals were included in the analysis. In overweight/obese (BMI≥27 kg/m2), the prevalence of T2D decreased across ascending n-3I quartiles: 1·0 (reference), 0·82 (95 % CI 0·31, 2·18), 0·56 (95 % CI 0·21, 1·52) and 0·22 (95 % ...