The Feasibility of Using Computrition Software for Nutrition Research—A Pilot Study

We evaluated the feasibility of using Computrition to design and implement a low vs. typical sodium meal plan intervention for older adults. Dietitians used Computrition to design a 7-day meal plan with three caloric levels (≤1750, 2000, ≥2250 kcals/day) and two sodium densities (low = 0.9 mg/kcal; n = 11 or typical = 2 mg/kcal; n = 9). Feasibility was determined by post-hoc definitions of effectiveness, sodium compliance, palatability of diet, sustainability, and safety. Given the low number of participants in one of the three calorie groups, the higher calorie groups were combined. Thus, comparisons are between low vs. typical meal plans at two calorie levels (≤1750 or ≥2000 kcals/day). Overall, regardless of the calorie group, the meal plans created with Computrition were effective in reaching the targeted sodium density and were safe for participants. Furthermore, individuals appeared to be equally compliant and reported similar palatability across meal plans. However, one of the three criteria for the sustainability definition was not met. In conclusion, we successfully used Computrition to design low and typical sodium meal plans that were effective, compliable, and safe. Future studies of older adults in similar settings should focus on improving the palatability of the meal plans and scaling this protocol to larger studies in older adults.     

Lymphoepithelial cyst of pancreas. Role of endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration

Lymphoepithelial cysts of the pancreas are extremely rare, benign, nonneoplastic cysts that may simulate pseudocysts or cystic neoplasm of the pancreas. Endosonographic and cytologic features of pancreatic lymphoepithelial cysts are poorly characterized because of their rarity. However, appropriate prospective diagnosis of pancreatic lymphoepithelial cysts using endoscopic ultrasound-guided fined needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) cytology may permit conservative management because of their benign nature. We conducted a MEDLINE search using the MeSH terms "pancreas", "cyst" and identified 16 patients who were diagnosed with endosonography or computerized tomography (CT) guided fine needle aspiration. Usefulness and pitfalls of EUS- or CT-guided cyst fluid analysis in the pre-operative diagnosis of pancreatic lymphoepithelial cysts are discussed.