bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of Early Child Nutritional Status and Home Environment on Child Development in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Phuong , Casanova Ines Gonzalez , DiGirolamo Ann , Pham Hoa , Truong Truong V , Truong Son V , Martorell Reynaldo , Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: November 2023

Early childhood development plays a key role in a child's future health, educational success, and economic status. However, suboptimal early development remains a global challenge despite recommended interventions that combine stimulation, nutrition, and health programs. This study assesses the role of intra‐uterine growth retardation, child nutritional status in the first year of life and the quality of the home environment on child development in northern Vietnam

We used prospective data that were collected as part of a randomized controlled trial evaluating the impact of preconceptional micronutrient supplements (PRECONCEPT) on maternal and child health in Vietnam. This study sample comprised of 935 singleton infants with child development data at 24 months of age. The Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III were used to assess three developmental domains: cognition, language and motor. The raw summary scores for each of the domains were computed and then transformed to standardized Z‐scores for easy to comparison across domains. The main independent variables included small for gestational age (SGA) at birth, height‐for‐age z‐score (HAZ) and quality of the home and learning environment based on the HOME inventory at 12 months of age. We used multivariate generalized linear regression models that adjusted for potential confounding factors (maternal education, maternal anemia, maternal depression, child gender and household socioeconomic status) and structural equation modeling to assess the direct and indirect effect of child growth and home environment quality on child development.

At birth, 12% infants were born SGA. Mean HAZ at 12 months was −0.91 ±1.03. Child HAZ at 12 months was a significant independent predictor of all child development domains at 24 months. A 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in HAZ was associated with 0.10, 0.11 and 0.13 SD increase in cognition, language and motor scores, respectively. SGA has both direct and indirect effects on motor development (total effect size = −0.28), but its influence on cognitive and language development is indirect though child HAZ at 12 months. Living in a high quality learning environment at home is associated with an average of 0.3 SD higher in each of the developmental domains, but this association was attenuated after controlling for maternal education and SES.

In conclusion, poor growth during the first 500 days of life (pregnancy and the first year) negatively influenced child development at 24 months. Early interventions aimed at improving pregnancy outcomes and child growth, along with promoting a good quality home environment, are critical to ensure optimal child development.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by Mathile Institute for the Advancement of Human Nutrition, Micronutrient Initiative, and The Nestlé Foundation.
Pica is Associated with Lower Hemoglobin Concentration in a Cohort of Pregnant Kenyan Women of Mixed HIV Status
Authors: Miller Joshua D. , Collins Shalean , Krumdieck Natalie R. , Wekesa Pauline , Onono Maricianah , Young Sera L.
Published: November 2023

Pica is the craving and purposeful consumption of non‐food substances. Although the practice has been well documented globally, its social, psychological, and biological covariates are not well understood. Further, little is known about the relationship between pica and HIV. Therefore, in a cohort of pregnant Kenyan women of mixed HIV status (n=370), we sought to 1) assess the prevalence and types of pica; 2) describe the sociodemographic characteristics associated with pica; 3) describe psychological covariates; and 4) understand its relationship with physiological outcomes including HIV status, anemia, and symptoms of gastrointestinal distress at enrollment into the study.

Survey data were collected by clinic‐based study nurses and included information about: pica behavior (both current and during childhood), sociodemographic background, depression (using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies‐Depression Scale, CES‐D), stress (using the Perceived Stress Scale, PSS), hemoglobin (Hb, using Hemocue), and gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in the prior 24 hours). Pica was operationalized as a dichotomous variable, based on 24‐hour dietary recall.

Of the 370 participants, 22.4% had engaged in pica in the previous 24 hours. Eating earth was the most common form of pica (geophagy, 19.5%), followed by raw starches (amylophagy, 2.4%), and other non‐food items, e.g. ash, charcoal (0.5%). There were no significant differences in pica behavior by demography (tribe, religion, relationship status) or household asset index. However, urban women were more likely to practice any pica (25.9% vs 16.7%, p=0.04). A greater proportion of women who reported practicing pica as children engaged in it during pregnancy (35.0% vs 20.7%, p=0.01). In terms of psychological covariates, CES‐D and PSS scores among women with pica were higher than those without, (mean±SD, 20.5±7.8 vs 17.8±8.4, p=0.009) and (20.9±4.2 vs 19.7±4.4, p=0.02), respectively. Women practicing pica had lower Hb levels than those who did not (10.5 g/dL ±1.89 vs 11.3±1.71, p<0.005). A greater proportion of HIV positive women practiced pica (28.6% vs 17.9%, p=0.02). Gastrointestinal symptoms did not differ by pica. In a multivariate logistic model of any pica, only Hb (OR=0.78, p=0.008) and pica during childhood (OR=2.42, p=0.009) were significant.

In sum, we observed strong, biologically significant relationships between current pica and both physiological (Hb) and behavioral (pica in childhood) covariates. Indeed, for each g/dL lower of Hb, the odds of a woman engaging in pica increased by 22%. This relationship between pica and lower Hb, together with the prevalence during pregnancy, suggests that discovering the etiology is a public health priority, and that inquiry into the consequences of pica should be biocultural.

Support or Funding Information

NIH K01 MH098902
Urinary Aflatoxin M1 Concentrations among Pregnant Women in Bishoftu, Ethiopia
Authors: Tsegaye Workneh , Fereja Mengistu , Gebreegziabher Tafere , Stoecker Barbara J.
Published: November 2023

Aflatoxins are fungal metabolites that can infect food grains in both developed and developing countries. In Ethiopia aflatoxin has been detected in several staple cereals at concentrations ranging from a trace to 26 μg/kg. However, aflatoxin exposures in the population in general and in pregnant women in particular have not been studied. Exposure to aflatoxin during pregnancy may impair fetal growth and development and result in long term health risks to both mothers and infants. The objective of this study was to quantify aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), a metabolic byproduct of the potent carcinogen aflatoxin B1, in urine from pregnant women. Study participants were 349 pregnant women selected by two‐stage cluster sampling from rural areas in Bishoftu, Ethiopia, in September and October, 2014. AFM1 concentrations in urine were determined as short‐term exposure indicators using ELISA kits. Urinary creatinine concentrations were determined with a clinical analyzer. Detectable urinary AFM1 was found in 72.5% (253) of women. Samples with detectable AFM1 ranged from 4.8 to 4331 pg AFM1/mg creatinine. The median (IQR) AFM1 concentrations in exposed pregnant women were 199.8 (69.5, 406.6) pg/mg creatinine. This high aflatoxin exposure emphasizes the necessity for intervention strategies to decrease aflatoxin in the food supply and to reduce exposure during pregnancy. Further investigation is required to assess specific sources of long‐term aflatoxin exposure as well as aflatoxin associations with birth outcomes.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Oklahoma State University.
Dietary patterns close socioeconomic disparity in adolescents’ height and adiposity level in urban Gambia
Authors: Juwara Alimatou , Chen Hsin‐Jen
Published: November 2023

Background

There is great disparity in adolescents’ nutritional status between public and private schools in urban Gambia. The present study examined the disparity of adolescents’ hunger experiences and dietary patterns between public and private schools in urban Gambia.

Methods

This school‐based cross‐sectional study took place in six private and six public middle schools in Banjul and Kanifing, the Gambia. In total, 960 students (13–15 years old) were recruited. Standing height and body mass index (BMI) were converted to Z‐score using the WHO growth references. Main outcomes of interest included height‐for‐age Z score (HAZ), BMI‐for‐age Z score (BMIAZ), and percent of body fat (BF%). BF% was measured on Tanita BIA UM‐076. Information on family socioeconomic status were based on parent/guardian's response. Hunger experience was based on participants’ self‐report on ever feeling hungry both at home and in school in the past 30 days. A food frequency questionnaire of 14 common food groups in the Gambia was administered to collect adolescents’ dietary habit in the past 7 days of interview. Factor analysis extracted the dietary patterns by analyzing the commonality of the consumption of 14 food groups.

Results

52.6% of public school students and 7.7% of private school students reported ever feeling hungry at home and school in the past 30 days. The differences in HAZ, BMIAZ, and BF% by family socioeconomic status were not significant after hunger experience was taken into account, while hunger experience itself was significantly associated with lower HAZ (by −0.17, 95% CI: −0.34, 0.00), BMIAZ (by −0.34, 95% CI: −0.57, −0.11), and BF% (by −1.85%, 95% CI: −3.00%, −0.70%). Factor analysis identified 4 independent dietary patterns. The 1st pattern includes red meat, egg, milk, dairy and sweetened beverage. The 2nd pattern includes vegetables, tubers, fruits and juices. The 3rd pattern includes whole grain and poultry. The 4th pattern is fried foods and seafood. Adolescents in private schools had higher HAZ than those in public schools, but the difference was no longer significant after dietary patterns were adjusted. Meanwhile, hunger was no longer associated with HAZ after dietary patterns was controlled. As for adiposity, disparity in BF% between public and private schools disappeared after dietary patterns were controlled, but hunger was still associated with a lower BF% (−1.38%, 95% CI: −2.49%,−0.26%). However, disparity in BMI‐for‐age between public and private schools remained significant after dietary patterns were taken into account.

Conclusion

The observed disparity in nutritional status between public and private schools in the urban Gambia may be eliminated when children have comparable dietary quality.
Weight Status and the Family Meal Environment in India
Authors: Jones Rebecca , Cunningham Solveig , Patil Shailaja
Published: November 2023

Background

Children's weight status is correlated to that of their mothers, and this pattern is believed to result in large part from family meal and activity environments. It may be that heavier parents create different environments, which have affected their own weight and will affect that of their kids. We explore these patterns in a developing‐country setting, where obesity is believed to be a new phenomenon but already affects almost half of mothers of adolescents.

Objective

Is the meal environment different in families where the mother is and is not obese, in the context of an Indian town just beginning to experience the nutrition transition?

Methods

We collected data in Vijayapura, India in a developing region of Southern India. A representative school‐based sample of 400 adolescents was collected in‐home with data from adolescents and their mothers including direct anthropometry.

Results

Our results show 50% of overweight/obese adolescents reported eating outside the home, compared to under‐/normal weight adolescents (36%). 82% of overweight/obese adolescents had an obese mother versus whereas none of the overweight/obese adolescents had a under‐/normal weight mother. Significant differences between weight categories of adolescents were demonstrated at every level of family income reported; with higher income groups having significantly higher proportion of overweight/obese adolescents (19% versus 6% under/normal weight). Adolescents who were overweight/obese were forced to eat more by family members (57%) compared to normal/underweight adolescents (28%). A large proportion of all adolescents in the sample reported eating meals in front of the television (69–73%).

Conclusion

These findings suggest patterns of unhealthy weight in mothers and their adolescent child as well as overweight/obese adolescents being associated with highly educated, high‐income families.
ER‐plasma membrane contact sites regulate sterol import in yeast
Authors: Menon Anant , Sere Yves Y. , Johansen Jesper , Quon Evan , Chauhan Neha , Beh Christopher T.
Published: November 2023

Sterols must be distributed from their site of synthesis or point of import to other cellular membranes. The high, bidirectional flux of sterol between the ER and plasma membrane (PM), ~100,000 molecules/second, occurs by non‐vesicular mechanisms involving sterol transport proteins (STPs) that may localize to ER‐PM contact sites. In wild‐type yeast cells ~48% of the PM is closely associated with ER. To test whether this association plays a role in sterol transport, we created a yeast strain, Δ‐s‐tether (based on Δtether (Manford et al. (2012) Dev Cell 23:1129)), where ER‐PM contacts were largely absent. Electron microscopy of thin sections indicated that more than a third of the Δ‐s‐tether cells examined had no detectable contacts, and that on average only 1.7% of the PM was contacted by ER. We found that whereas Δ‐s‐tether cells display high levels of PM phosphatidylinositol‐4‐phosphate and choline‐dependent growth, consistent with lack of ER‐PM contacts, the rate at which newly synthesized ergosterol exchanges with the PM was surprisingly unaffected. However, transport of exogenously supplied sterol to the ER was slowed dramatically, an effect that could be reversed by growing the cells in choline or by over‐expressing an artificial ER‐PM tethering molecule. Our results suggest that ER‐PM contact sites control a critical step in sterol import.
Influence of Family Mealtime Routines on Preschoolers’ Picky Eating Behaviors and Food Consumption
Authors: Cole Natasha Chong , Musaad Salma M. , Fiese Barbara H. , Lee Soo‐Yeun , Donovan Sharon M.
Published: November 2023

In the division of responsibility in feeding, parents are responsible for what, when, and where the child is fed, while the child is responsible for how much and whether to eat. Few studies have focused on parent's responsibility for establishing mealtime structure and routine, and how this influences children's eating behaviors, dietary intake, and weight status. The objective of this study was to examine the role of family mealtime routines on children's picky eating behaviors, dietary intake, and body weight. A total of 497 primary caregivers of 2‐ to 5‐year‐old children residing in East‐Central Illinois were recruited as part of the STRONG Kids observational cohort study. Participants responded to survey questions about their family mealtime routines and children's eating habits. Family mealtime routine was measured using a five‐item scale in order to assess the frequency and planning of family mealtimes, and communication during mealtimes. Higher scores on the family routine scale represented a higher sense of positive mealtime climate associated with the family mealtime routine. Child height and weight were measured by trained research personnel and used to calculate body mass index (BMI), BMI percentile, and BMI Z‐score. Frequent struggles with the child over food was positively associated with children's food refusals (r=0.38, p<0.01). Family mealtime routines were associated with fewer food refusals, lower consumption of fatty/sugary foods, and higher consumption of fruits and vegetables (all p<0.05). There was no association between BMI percentile and family mealtime routines. Overall, our findings suggest that family mealtime routines may protect against the development of picky eating behaviors and unhealthy dietary patterns in preschoolers. Further research is needed to define the effects of family mealtime structure and routine on children's long‐term weight‐gain trajectories.

Support or Funding Information

Ms. Cole was supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2011‐67001‐30101.
Association Between Maternal Pre‐Pregnant Body Mass Index and Breast Markers for Lactation Insufficiency Among Mothers With Self‐Reported Low Milk Supply
Authors: Cassar‐Uhl Diana , Liberatos Penny
Published: November 2023

Background

Women with high pre‐pregnant body mass index (BMI) have lower rates of breastfeeding exclusivity and duration than their normal‐BMI counterparts. Animal models suggest that the physiology of obesity may corrupt normal mammary gland development and function. This study sought to identify an association in humans between pre‐pregnant BMI and physical characteristics that may be predictive of disrupted lactation due to insufficient glandular development of the breast.

Methods

The data for this analysis was drawn from a 2013 study of mothers who intended to exclusively breastfeed but believed they did not produce sufficient milk to do so. The mixed‐methods, 141‐item questionnaire was available online and participants were recruited through Internet platforms for mothers with breastfeeding problems and email listservs for breastfeeding supporters. Pre‐pregnant BMI was calculated from self‐reported pre‐pregnant height and weight. Those with BMI >= 25 were classified as high BMI. Respondents who reported little or no breast changes in pregnancy, little or no breast changes postpartum, wide ( > 1.5 inches or 3.8 cm) intramammary space, and tubular breast shape were classified as having markers of insufficient glandular development. Logistic regression was used to test for an association between pre‐pregnant BMI and breast markers that may be predictive of lactation insufficiency.

Results

57.5% of respondents (N = 1022) reported a pre‐pregnant BMI of 25 or greater. High pre‐pregnant BMI was strongly and significantly associated (OR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.79, 3.26; p < .0001) with having the four markers suggestive of insufficient breast gland development.

Conclusion

Women with high pre‐pregnant BMI may be more likely to also have insufficiently developed breasts, resulting in reduced capacity for exclusive breastfeeding.

Support or Funding Information

None. This study was undertaken in partial fulfillment of the first author's Master of Public Health thesis project.
Effects of a structured meal replacement plan on weight loss and maintenance: a cross‐sectional analysis of 24‐week data of a mobile app‐assisted diet program
Authors: Lau Francis C. , Daggy Bruce P. , McManus Jamie F.
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies have shown that a large initial weight loss combined with tracking tools for monitoring weight loss progress are predicative factors for a successful weight loss and maintenance program. The convenience of a portion‐controlled structured meal plan further contributes to the compliance of weight loss programs. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of a longer‐term, two‐phase, structured meal replacement, mobile app‐assisted weight loss program.

Methods

Participants were on a customizable two‐replacement‐one‐self‐prepared structured meal plan for 12 weeks (weight loss phase) followed by a one‐replacement‐two‐self‐prepared meal plan for an additional 12 weeks (weight maintenance phase). A total of 173 overweight/obese adults (138 females and 35 males) completed the 24‐week program with the following baseline demographics: age = 47.0 y, body weight = 206.1 lb, BMI = 33.2 kg/m2. Participants were required to sign up for a mobile application that tracks self‐reported data. Weekly data were analyzed on individuals reporting their body weight. Data were normalized by baseline transformation and comparisons at different time points were assessed by ANOVA. Two‐tailed t‐test was used for baseline comparison at specific time points. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.

Results

Participants lost an average of 15.2 lb or 7.4% of their initial body weight (t‐test, P<0.0001) and their BMI was significantly reduced from 33.2 to 30.8 kg/m2 (t‐test, P<0.0001) during the weight loss period (after 12 weeks). A significant initial weight loss of 4.75 lb (t‐test, P<0.001) was observed after two weeks. No significant change in body weight (ANOVA, P=0.9997) was observed during weight maintenance period (week‐12 through week‐24). The average body weight during the 12‐week maintenance phase was 192 lb and the difference in body weight between week‐12 and week‐24 was not statistically significant (t‐test, P=0.62). No significant adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

The findings indicated that this longer‐term two‐phase structured meal replacement program, combined with a convenient tracking tool and significant initial weight loss, was well‐tolerated and was effective in promoting weight loss after 12 weeks and supporting successful subsequent weight loss maintenance for an additional 12 weeks.
Positive changes in parenting strategies of a workshop in a Mexican urban adult population
Authors: Perez‐Lizaur Ana Bertha , Fernandez‐Gaxiola Ana C , Damacio Maria Jose I , Ralph‐Steines Jennifer I
Published: November 2023

Objective

To describe the impact of an 8‐session workshop for improving healthy eating habits given by community health workers on parenting strategies.

Methods

We used a pretest‐posttest design without control group. A validated parenting strategies assessment questionnaire was self‐administered. We used t tests and χ2 tests to evaluate pretest and posttest differences, by site of the workshop group.

Results

A total of 418 parents/caregivers were included (93% women and 7% men), most of them of 30 to 39 years old. Most fathers were employers and most mothers were housewives (34.5% and 54.0%, respectively). Mean educational level for participants was secondary school (i.e 9 years of school). Workshops were carried out in three sites and we observed positive significant changes in all of them (p < 0.05). We observed pre‐post (mean± SD) significant score changes (p < 0.05) among parents/caregivers strategies of control, discipline, monitoring, limiting, and reinforcing their children eating habits (18.83±5.66 vs. 13.55 ± 8.22; 15.38 ± 5.58 vs. 13.29 ± 8.43; y 24.71 ± 6.57 vs. 21.35 ± 11.68; 22.82 ± 6.86 vs. 19.75 ± 11.21; and 6.41 ± 3.92 vs. 5.76 ± 3.62 respectively). Some of the observed changes may benefit the eating habits of children.

Support or Funding Information

Fundación SERTULL AC
Estimation of Usual Intakes of Occasionally‐Consumed Foods among Adults Residing in Seoul Metropolitan Area, Korea
Authors: Kim Dong Woo , Lee Jung Eun , Kim Jeongseon , Oh Kyungwon , Joung Hyojee , Paik Hee Young
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Unlike most nutrients, which is consumed daily, estimating usual intake of foods or dishes that are consumed only occasionally need to be estimated by calculating the probability of consumption and the amount consumed for those days. The aim of this study is to evaluate the application of an analytical model to estimate the distribution of usual intake of occasionally‐consumed foods among adults residing in Seoul metropolitan area.

Design

To estimate the usual intake of foods, whether or not increasing the FFQ frequency is associated with consumption frequency of 12‐day dietary records (12DR) was assessed from 288 adults. The Multiple Source Method (MSM) was applied to a randomly selected 2DR using the FFQ frequency as a covariate.

Results

For all seven food groups, and 89 of 106 individual foods (84%), there was a significant correlation between FFQ frequency and consumption frequency of 12DR. Usual food intake distributions that were estimated by MSM showed similar extreme estimates (5th, 95th percentiles) when compared with 12DR, more so than when 12DR was compared with 2DR. In addition, the proportion of non‐consumer was reduced for most individual foods and food groups and was comparable with those of 12DR.

Conclusion

A significant correlation between FFQ frequency and consumption frequency of DR was observed (84%). Using at least 2 days of DR with frequency information such as a FFQ, usual food intake and the proportion of true‐nonconsumers could be estimated more accurately.

Support or Funding Information

The present study was supported by the National Cancer Center Korea (grant no. 0720660).
Caffeine Exposure in Adults with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bart‐Greenough Jessica , Harris Cristen , Kloubec June , Wenner Cynthia A. , Mischley Laurie
Published: November 2023

Objective

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disease with no known cure, therefore finding ways to slow the progression and treat the symptoms is imperative. Caffeine or caffeine‐containing beverages have been shown to slow progression or decrease symptoms. The goal of this survey is to describe the caffeine exposure within the MS population.

Methods

This period prevalence study uses an online questionnaire to assess caffeinated beverage consumption habits of participants with MS over the past six months. Caffeine questions assess whether participants consume caffeinated beverages including coffee, espresso, decaffeinated coffee, decaffeinated espresso, instant coffee, black tea, green tea, soda, diet soda, energy drinks, and energy shots. All questions are part the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Care in MS survey.

Results

The total number of respondents to the CAM Care in MS Survey was 220. Diagnosis dates are as old as 1964, and as recent as 2015. The majority of respondents suffer from RRMS (65%), are female (85%), are married (66%), are Caucasian (94%), and have not suffered a relapse requiring hospitalization in the last six months (91%). There is a range of disability statuses reported within this group. No disability (EDSS 1) was reported by 31.6% of respondents, mild disability (EDSS 2) by 32.6%, moderate disability (EDSS 3) by 10.7%, gait disability (EDSS 4) by 6.0%, early cane disability (EDSS 5) by 4.2%, late cane disability (EDSS 6) by 4.7%, bilateral support (EDSS 7) by 4.2%, wheelchair dependent (EDSS 8) by 6.0%, and immobility (EDSS 9) by 0%. A sample (n=17) of the CAM Care in MS survey responded to the question “Do you drink caffeinated beverages?”. Of those, 59% said yes. Of the sample who said yes, drinking coffee and espresso were reported by 75% of respondents, green tea by 64%, black tea by 58% soda by 33%, decaffeinated coffee and diet soda by 8%, and energy drinks and energy shots by 0%.

Conclusion

The primary source of caffeine from beverages in this population was coffee and espresso. Green and black tea were consumed, but to a lesser degree. Few people reported consuming soda of any type and no respondents reported consuming energy drinks or shots. If caffeine is a factor in MS, then identifying and quantifying sources is important for gaining insight into the correlation between caffeine consumption and current disability status. Lack of effective treatment for MS makes finding ways to slow progression paramount, especially if that can be done through modifiable lifestyle factors.
Diet Quality Associated with Total Sodium Intake in US Adults Aged ≥18 Years – National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2012
Authors: Mercado Carla , Cogswell Mary , Perrine Cria , Gillespie Cathleen
Published: November 2023

Diet quality or macronutrient composition of diets among adults with a sodium intake of <2300 mg/day in the US is unknown. We investigated differences in diet on the days dietary sodium was < 2300 mg compared to ≥ 2300 mg. Using 24‐hour dietary recall data from the 2009–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we examined the association between diet quality [macronutrients and Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI‐2010) components] and dietary sodium among 24‐hour dietary recalls from adults aged 18 years or older. Linear regression analysis adjusted for total caloric intake, age, gender, and race/ethnicity was used to test the relationship between HEI‐2010 components and nutrient densities (per 1000 kcal) with dietary sodium. In addition, mean score for each HEI‐2010 component and total score, with higher scores representing a favorable diet quality, were estimated by dietary sodium <2300 mg and ≥2300 mg. With greater dietary sodium, average protein, fiber, and fat densities were higher and total carbohydrates density was lower. In addition, average meat protein, dairy, vegetable, and refined grains densities were higher and total fruit density was lower with greater dietary sodium. Average seafood protein, plant protein, and whole grains densities did not vary with dietary sodium. Total HEI‐2010 scores on days with sodium intakes <2,300 mg (51.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) =50.75, 52.67) were greater compared to those with sodium intakes ≥2300 mg (48.81, 95% CI = 48.07, 49.55). Overall diet quality, but not all of the individual components, was better on days with dietary sodium intake <2300 mg versus ≥2300 mg.

Support or Funding Information

There are no sources of funding for this project.
Evidence Mapping: Resistant Starch Interventions and Health Outcomes
Authors: Sawicki Caleigh M , Shah Vrushabh , Livingston Kara A , Roberts Susan B , Chung Mei , McKeown Nicola M
Published: November 2023

Resistant starch has potential health benefits including improving glycemic control, increasing satiety, and gut health. The aim of this project was to use evidence mapping methodology to summarize published data on the relationship between resistant starch consumption and several physiological health outcomes. A newly developed fiber database, comprised of human intervention studies published from 1946 to September 2013, identified 76 publications detailing dietary interventions using resistant starch. Within the 76 publications, 104 resistant starch interventions were identified, which varied widely in description of type and/or source of resistant starch. Descriptive analyses were performed to summarize study design characteristics, exposures, and outcomes, and weighted scatter plots were used to visualize gaps in the current body of research. The majority of studies were randomized crossover designs (74%) in adult populations (92%). The physiological health outcomes most frequently studied were colonic fermentation/short chain fatty acid production (17%), postprandial glucose and insulin metabolism (16%), and fecal bulking/laxation (10%). There was little available information on blood pressure, blood lipids, and transit time. Only 7 studies (9%) had a sample size of more than 50 subjects, and 37% of interventions were acute studies that lasted less than 2 days. The effect of resistant starch on health outcomes among overweight, obese, or metabolically at‐risk subjects is lacking, reported in only 19% of studies. Moving forward, dietary intervention studies examining the effect of different resistant starches could be of longer duration in a wider range of subjects and health outcomes, and a meta‐analysis could be employed to synthesize the research and strengthen the cumulative evidence on this topic.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by a grant from the International Life Science Institute ‐ North America Branch, Technical Committee on Carbohydrates
Olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions and lipid profiles: a community‐based study
Authors: Huang Shue , Huang Zhe , Li Junjuan , Jin Cheng , Keller Kathleen Loralee , Shearer Greg , Wu Shouling , Gao Xiang
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

Several lipid‐related hormones and peptides, such as glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and leptin are linked to regulation of gustatory and olfactory function. We thus hypothesized that individuals with gustatory and/or olfactory dysfunction have higher blood cholesterol concentrations. We tested this hypothesis in a Chinese community‐based study.

METHODS

In this cross‐sectional study conducted in 2012, we enrolled 10,072 Chinese participants (8,487 men and 1,585 women, mean age 53.4 years) who did not take hypolipidemic agents. We asked perceived olfactory and gustatory dysfunction for at least 3 months via a questionnaire. Participants were categorized into three groups based on the number of these chemosensory dysfunctions, ranging from 0 to 2. We collected 12‐hour overnight fasting blood samples and assessed concentrations of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), triglyceride, and total cholesterol (TC). TC concentration was taken as a primary outcome of the current analysis. The General Linear Model was used to test differences in concentrations of TC and other lipids across groups with different olfactory and gustatory status, after adjusting for potential confounders such as demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, smoking, obesity and history of cardiovascular disease, cancer and head injury. We further tested the interaction between potential risk factors and the chemosensory function.

RESULTS

Prevalence of olfactory dysfunction was 2.30% and gustatory dysfunction was 1.25%. The adjusted means were 5.53, 5.32 and 5.13 mmol/l for individuals with two, one and zero chemosensory dysfunctions, respectively (P‐trend=0.008). Those with greater chemosensory dysfunction were also more likely to have higher concentration of LDL‐C (P‐trend =0.07), but not HDL‐C and triglyceride (P‐trend>0.2 for both), compared with those with less chemosensory dysfunction. Subgroup analyses showed that the associations between chemosensory dysfunction and TC concentrations were more pronounced in participants aged 60 years or younger, non‐smokers, and those without alcohol consumption, respectively, relative to their counterparts (P‐interaction<0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

In this large cross‐sectional study, olfactory and gustatory dysfunction was associated with higher blood concentrations of TC. Further prospective study is needed to investigate the temporal relation between these chemosensory dysfunctions and hyperlipidemia.

Support or Funding Information

NINDS R21NS08723502
Dietary predictors of exposure to multiple toxic metals in school age children
Authors: Kordas Katarzyna , Peregalli Fabiana , Vahter Marie , Hsiao Pao Ying , Manay Nelly , Queirolo Elena
Published: November 2023

Food could play a role in children's toxicant exposure, but intake of specific nutrients could be protective. We studied food groups, food patterns, and nutrient intake in relation to urinary biomarkers of antimony (Sb), cadmium (Cd), uranium (U), lead (Pb) and cobalt (Co) in a cross‐sectional study of 328 Uruguayan children (6.7±0.5 y; 55% boys). Metals in urine were measured with ICP‐MS. Dietary factors were derived from 2 non‐consecutive 24‐hr recalls completed by mothers. Metal exposure was low. A single factor (Eigenvalue 1.1) of multiple exposure was identified with factor loadings >0.40 for Sb, Cd, U, Pb and >0.20 for Co. Higher scores were associated with family cultivating or consuming homegrown produce (β [95% CI]: 0.3 [0.1, 0.5]). In OLS models adjusted for home produce cultivation, school location, maternal education and employment, above‐median dairy consumption (−0.1 [−0.3, 0.0] and protein intake (−0.2 [−0.4, 0.0]) were each related with lower exposure factor score. Diet is not a major source of children's exposure to metals. Benefits of higher dairy/protein intake need to be investigated further.

Support or Funding Information

NIEHS, R21 ES019949, 1R21 ES16523‐01
Feeding Practices Vary Across Four Parenting Styles in First‐Grade Children
Authors: Kimble Ashley , Hubbs‐Tait Laura , Larzelere Robert E. , Topham Glade , Page Melanie , Harrist Amanda W.
Published: November 2023

Because of conflicting findings about parenting styles and child obesity, study purpose was to conduct exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ) in order to (1) evaluate support for an uninvolved style, in addition to the authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive styles traditionally measured by the PSDQ and (2) to clarify differences among styles in feeding practices. Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) and scales for encouraging and modeling healthy eating measured feeding practices. Participants were 442 mothers (Mage= 33.92, SD=6.09; 71.3% Caucasian) of 1st grade children (Mage=6.96, SD=0.40; 53% male). Results of EFA revealed a 4‐factor solution supporting four styles: authoritative (14 items; α = .84), authoritarian (8 items; α = .78), permissive (8 items; α = .63), and uninvolved (12 items; α = .77). Mothers were categorized as authoritative (n=101), authoritarian (n = 100), permissive (n = 82), uninvolved (n = 85), or undifferentiated (n = 74) using z‐scores. ANOVAs revealed the following significant between‐styles differences in feeding practices. CFQ restriction: authoritarian (M = 3.89) > permissive (M = 3.45). CFQ pressure: permissive (M = 2.19) < authoritarian (M = 2.85), authoritative (M = 2.31), and uninvolved (M = 2.78) mothers. CFQ monitoring: authoritative (M= 4.07) > uninvolved (M= 3.60). Modeling healthy eating: authoritative (M = 2.72) and permissive (M = 2.71) > authoritarian (M = 2.44) and uninvolved (M = 2.39). Encouraging healthy eating: authoritative (M = 4.20) > uninvolved (M = 3.99) mothers. Findings support using the PSDQ to measure uninvolved parenting style and suggest this new approach may help resolve inconsistencies in child obesity prevention research.
Aging Increases Markers of Inflammation and Alters Brain‐Gut Interactions
Authors: Hoffman Jared , Bakshi Vikas , Parikh Ishita , Guo Janet , Armstrong Rachel , Estus Steve , Lin Ai‐Ling
Published: November 2023

Aging is the perhaps the greatest risk factor for the development of numerous health concerns, namely, neurological disorders such as Alzeimer's Disease (AD). Age is generally defined as the collection of deleterious changes to cells and tissues over time that increases one's risk of disease. These changes include increased inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and decreased immune function. Further, certain variations in gut microbiota have been implicated in the development of obesity, inflammation, and recently, neurological disease. We hypothesize that alterations of the gut microbiome from age may cause dysregulated brain‐gut communication, promoting inflammation and ultimately, neurological disease. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the influence of the aging process on the brain‐gut axis and how these collectively affect overall neurological function. We used a multi‐disciplinary approach to address brain‐gut interaction in reflection on brain physiology and cognitive function, including neuroimaging, 16s genomic sequencing of the gut microbiome, cognitive and behavioral testing, and brain metabolomic assessment. In agreement with the hypothesis, our preliminary data indicate deleterious modifications of the gut microbiota, decreased cerebral blood flow, distorted cognitive function, and amplified markers of inflammation in old mice compared to that of young mice.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by NIH grant K01AG040164
Optimizing Nutrition Care in Hospital: Understanding Current Nutrition Practices through Focus Groups and Interviews
Authors: Laur Celia V , Keller Heather H
Published: November 2023

The More‐2‐Eat (M2E) project aims to optimize nutrition care in Canadian hospitals through use of the Integrated Nutrition Pathway for Acute Care (INPAC). By optimizing nutrition care, the M2E project aims to impact performance of the healthcare system by ensuring that malnutrition and poor food intake are prevented, detected and treated, hence promoting the recovery, function and quality of life of patients, with particular attention on the needs of frail elderly.

Before making a change to nutrition culture in hospital, it is important to understand current attitudes and practices related to nutrition care from a variety of hospital staff and management perspectives. As part of baseline data collection for M2E, interviews (n=40) and focus groups (n=11) were conducted with staff and management from 5 Canadian hospitals, in 4 provinces. Thematic analysis of transcripts is currently underway and preliminary findings identify facilitators and barriers regarding incorporation of nutrition screening tools, provision of standard nutrition care, use of nutrition assessment tools, incorporation of nutrition into the discharge process, and suggestions for making change in the hospital.

Initial results indicate that communication is a problem across departments. Although communication between individuals is seen as strong, it is not always clear who is responsible for certain tasks, there are often several steps required to communicate a patient need/care, and it is not always clear how to communicate patient needs to effect change in behaviour of staff. There is also a lack of ownership regarding mealtimes, making it more difficult to make a change if no one is accountable. The staff care about nutrition and their patients, however need specific and manageable tasks which can be built into their current workload. Change should begin small and be tested for feasibility before upscaling. Incorporating all staff will be essential for this culture change.

The results of the focus groups and interviews will be summarized for each unit and presented back to them as a starting point, along with quantitative data on their current processes. Feedback of this data will be used to stimulate change in nutrition care on the unit. Understanding the facilitators, barriers and opportunities to change are essential when optimizing nutrition care in hospital.

Support or Funding Information

This research is funded by the Technology Evaluation in the Elderly Network (TVN), which is supported by the Government of Canada through the Networks of Centres of Excellence program.
An Examination of BMI and Daily Nutritional Intake, comparing Chinese Senior Immigrants in North Virginia and Chinese Senior residents in China
Authors: Dong Mengyi , Pawloski Lisa , Sun Yingxin
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between nutrient intake and BMI among U.S. Chinese senior immigrants and Chinese seniors residing in China.

Methods

This study analyzes data from a convenience sample of 41 first generation U.S. Chinese immigrants with 52 Chinese senior residents living in the Dalian and Guangdong provinces. Data analyzed included: BMI, daily calorie, sugar, saturated fat, protein, fiber, sodium, folate, potassium, and vitamin B‐12. Dietary data were collected using 24‐hour dietary recall method and BMI were calculated using height and weight data. T‐tests and correlation were used to determine relationships intake between dietary intake and BMI in the two groups.

Results

The immigrant group has significantly lower BMI, calorie intake, and nutrient intake compared to the resident group. The calorie intake was lower by 27.07%, and the largest difference was found in sodium and vitamin B‐12, which was lower by 39.42% and 60.97%, respectively. All investigated nutrients are highly correlated with daily calorie intake (p < 0.01), except vitamin B‐12 intake in the Chinese resident group (p < 0.05). Vitamin B‐12 has the largest variation in both groups. BMI is correlated with sugar intake in both groups, and sodium in the resident group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Among Chinese seniors, BMI is highly associated with daily sugar intake instead of calorie, protein, fat or carbohydrates intake. Further, a high sodium diet may result in high BMI. This study presents one of first to examine the relationship between nutrient intake and BMI among Chinese senior immigrants and residents.
Does a Daily Walnut Supplement Given for a Year Result in Body Weight Gain?
Authors: Bitok Edward , Rajaram Sujatha , Ros Emilio , Kazzi Natalie , Huey Lynnley , Jaceldo Karen , Juma David , Cofán Montse , Calvo Carlos , Sabaté Joan
Published: November 2023

Background

While nuts are known to reduce several cardiovascular risk factors, being energy dense, they are perceived as fattening. Short‐term studies have shown that nut intake does not adversely affect body weight, but long term data in elderly under free living conditions are lacking.

Objective

To examine if a daily supplement of walnuts (1–2 oz. or 28–56 g) incorporated into the diet of free living older adults for a year increases body weight compared to a habitual diet without walnuts.

Design

The Walnuts for Healthy Aging (WAHA) study is an ongoing, dual center clinical trial, examining the effects of a walnut diet on age related outcomes. At our center, we randomly assigned 355 participants (60% female), mean age 69 y, to a walnut or control group. Participants in both groups followed their habitual diet and lifestyle; the control group refrained from eating any walnuts, while walnut group were provided with packets of walnuts equivalent to 15% of their daily energy that they incorporated into the daily diet. No other dietary advice was provided to either groups. They were followed up once every two months by a dietitian. Compliance was assessed through unannounced 24‐hour telephone diet recalls and by measuring changes in a‐linolenic (ALA) in the erythrocyte membrane. Body weight, body fat, and waist and hip circumferences were obtained at baseline and after one year. Weight change over time and between the two groups was analyzed by repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), adjusting for: age, gender, ethnicity, and additional baseline characteristics.

Results

A total of 312 participants completed one year of the study. High degree of compliance was observed in both groups to their diet protocol. Over time, the walnut group reported higher mean energy intake (+1071kJ) compared to control group. The mean weight decreased in both groups, although the decrease was higher in the control group (−1.05 kg) than in the walnut group (−0.29 kg)(P=0.082). The weight difference between the two groups was much smaller than expected given the difference in energy intake. Waist circumference increased by 2.25 cm (P>0.05) in the walnut group and by 1.94 cm (P>0.05) in the control group. There were no significant changes in body fat (P>0.05) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (P>0.05) over time and between the two groups (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Incorporating daily supplement of walnuts into the customary diet of older free‐living adults for 1 year does not result in body weight gain or significant change in other adiposity measures.

Support or Funding Information

The WAHA study is funded by the California Walnut Commission