Nutrition
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Muscle release of the amino acid 3-methyl-histidine (3MH) is a sensitive index of myofibrillar protein overdegradation (MPO). We hypothesized that patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) could have increased muscle release of 3MH, which in turn reflects MPO, and that serum electrolyte sodium (Na(+)) and potassium (K(+)) levels may be associated with this 3MH muscle release. ⋯ The study demonstrated the existence of MPO in resting overweight patients with CHF, thereby suggesting that low serum levels of K(+) may contribute to MPO.
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Food-based strategies need to be developed to improve the vitamin D status of individuals. Recent studies identified ultraviolet B irradiation as an efficient method to enrich mushrooms and eggs with vitamin D. The aim of this study was to determine whether free-range farming of hens could provide a valuable method to produce vitamin D-enriched eggs. ⋯ Free-range farming offers an efficient alternative to fortify eggs with vitamin D, provided that farming conditions are sufficiently attractive for hens to range outside.