bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Based Dietary Guidance - Weighing up the recommendations
Authors: Dolan Michael , Abouhajar Sali , O'Kelly Damian , O'Sullivan Elizabeth , Kennedy Aileen , Douglas Frances
Published: June 2020

Food Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDG) are dietary recommendations described in terms of amounts of foods that should be consumed. They are designed to support healthy eating through simple messaging and indicate how to achieve a nutritionally adequate diet. However, assessing compliance with FBDG targets can be difficult. The quantity of food either being consumed or prescribed and the amount of that food that constitutes a serving are needed to calculate the contribution of the food towards a food group target. The aim of this study was to define the serving weight of foods, guided by definitions from Irish FBDG, to the McCance and Widdowson Composition of Foods Integrated Dataset 2015 (CoFID). This will enable the automatic assessment of compliance to FBDG using Nutritics nutrition analysis software. Foods from CoFID were categorised into six food groups as defined by Ireland's FBDG. Quantified servings from the Irish FBDG were matched to foods. Calculation criteria were developed to establish a serving size for remaining foods within each food group. For fats and oils, as well as raw fruits and vegetables, household measurements were converted to grams, using Food Portion Sizes from the Food Standards Agency. Quantities for cooked fruits and vegetables were calculated using weight-change factors published by Bognar. For the breads, cereals and potatoes group a serving size was calculated using the midpoint for the calorie bands in this group, as defined by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. For the dairy group, a serving size was determined by calculating the quantity needed to provide 250 mg of calcium. This was in line with achieving the total daily recommended amount of calcium from the dairy group from 3 servings. For meat, fish and alternatives (MFA), serving sizes were developed using the recommended amount of protein per body weight reference value for males and females. For foods high in fat, sugar and salt, serving sizes were defined using 100kcal as the recommended amount of energy provided for snacks. Out of 3,291 foods, 1,980 were grouped into 6 food groups. Quantified servings were available for 694 foods in 3 food groups. Calculated serving sizes were developed for the remaining 1,276 foods. The quantity of each food that constitutes a serving will be integrated into Nutritics to automatically assess compliance to FBDG. This will enable Health Care and Food Industry Professionals to deliver informed advice on meeting population health targets.
Adiposity and dyslipidaemia are associated with epigenetic age acceleration
Authors: Arpón Ana , Riezu-Boj José-Ignacio , Milagro Fermín I. , Santos José L. , Alfredo Martínez J.
Published: June 2020

Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ involved in a variety of regulatory functions beyond simple fat storage. Excessive fat accumulation in the visceral tissue has been related to obesity associated comorbidities and manifestations such as hypertension, hyperglycaemia, hypercholesterolemia, and inflammatory processes. In the later stages of life, there is a shift of fat distribution from subcutaneous to visceral depots, which is associated to the development of several age-related diseases. Epigenetics has been described as a potential contributor in aging processes, being also associated with diseases and fat deposition that progress with age. The aim of this research was to investigate the relationships between aging, epigenetic processes and visceral adipose tissue.

The study population included 269 adult subjects recruited in the University of Navarra, Spain. Methylation data was assessed by Infinium MethylationEPIC beadchip from Illumina. Epigenetic age acceleration was calculated using the method GrimAge (AgeAccGrim), available in the website DNA methylation Age Calculator (https://dnamage.genetics.ucla.edu/home). Anthropometric, biochemical and blood pressure measurements were assessed following standardized methods. Body composition measurements by DXA were also carried out.

Statistically significant correlations were found between age acceleration and waist circumference, some DXA-measured variables (lean mass, trunk fat mass, android fat mass, visceral adipose tissue mass), glucose, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides levels and C-reactive protein. Linear regression models showed that visceral adipose tissue mass and HDL-cholesterol were conjointly influencing the epigenetic age acceleration. In addition, a mediation by HDL-cholesterol in the relationship between AgeAccGrim and visceral adipose tissue mass was found.

Collectively, these findings demonstrated that visceral adiposity and dyslipidaemia are associated with accelerated aging effects, contributing to understand the development of age-related diseases.
PNNS-GS2: Development and validation of a dietary quality score reflecting the French nutritional recommendations of 2017
Authors: Chaltiel Dan , Adjibade Moufidath , Deschamps Valérie , Touvier Mathilde , Hercberg Serge , Julia Chantal , Kesse-Guyot Emmanuelle
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The food-based dietary guidelines having been revised in March 2017, it appeared necessary to update the National Nutrition Health Program - Guidelines Score (PNNS-GS), the diet quality score developed according to the 2001 recommendations. This study was therefore aimed at developing and validating the PNNS-GS2, the diet quality score based on the new recommendations.

Material and methods

Our sample included 80,965 French adults enrolled in the prospective NutriNet-Santé cohort. Collected data included 24-hour dietary records over two years, socio-demographic data, and (in a sub-sample of 16,938 individuals) clinical and biological indicators. The cut-offs and weights of the components of the PNNS-GS2 were developed collegially by nutrition experts who were involved in the update of the recommendations. The score has 13 components for a theoretical value ranging from -∞ to 13.5 points. Nutritional, socio-demographic, clinical, and biological data were described according to the PNNS-GS2 quintile. The face, content, construct and criterion validities were also evaluated.

Results

In our sample, mean PNNS-GS2 was 2.1 (SD = 3.1) in women and -0.3 (SD = 3.6) in men. A high PNNS-GS2 (and therefore a better adherence to the new recommendations) was positively associated with (mean difference Q5-Q1) a high age (Δwomen = + 8.4 / Δmen = + 4.7 years), higher educational level (Δwomen = + 3.9 / Δmen = + 7.4% with a university level), more physical activity (Δwomen = + 13.3 / Δmen = + 3.5% with ≥ 60 min/day) and a larger proportion of non-smokers (Δwomen = + 9.7 / Δmen = + 13.7%). A high PNNS-GS2 was also positively associated with a higher fiber intake (Δwomen = + 8.7 / Δmen = + 10.7 g/d) or vitamin C (Δwomen = + 36.6 / Δmen = + 43.8 mg/d), and negatively with mean arterial pressure (Δwomen = -3.0 / Δmen = -2.8 mmHg) and plasma LDL-cholesterol concentrations (Δwomen = -0.07 / Δmen = -0.06 g/L) and triglycerides (Δwomen = -0.1 / Δmen = -0.16 g/L). All tests were significant (p < 0.05).

Discussion

Associations observed between the PNNS-GS2 and socio-demographic, nutritional and clinico-biological factors are consistent and corroborate its validity. Further studies will be needed to estimate its association with mortality and morbidity.
Relationship between the nutritional status and food consumption inside the school in adolescents of Mexico City
Authors: Gutiérrez Rey , Radilla Claudia , Vega Salvador , Schettino Beatriz , Ruíz Jorge , Radilla María
Published: June 2020

There is a concern that the bad habits and lifestyles of adolescents such as the consumption of foods rich in sugars and fats in free moments, like school recess acts as a factor that intervenes in the increase of weight. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the nutritional status and the food consumption inside the school in adolescents of Mexico City. A sample of 1457 first-grade adolescents from high schools was obtained. A food consumption frequency questionnaire was applied inside the school. Likewise, anthropometric measures were taken and through the use of Who Anthro Plus program, the nutritional status diagnosis was obtained. The obtained data was analyzed with the statistical package IBM SPSS Statistics® version 20.0 for Windows. It was found that adolescents who frequently consume sweets, snacks, flavored waters, bottled juices, confectionery products and ice cream have a higher prevalence of obesity (15.2%, 17.4%, 21.4%, 17.7%, 16.2% and 19.9%, respectively), compared to adolescents who never consume these products (11.6%, 12.6%, 11.9%, 10.5%, 14.6%, and 12.1%, respectively). Likewise, it was found that adolescents who frequently consume fruit, water, yogurt, vegetables and milk have a lower prevalence of obesity (10.2%, 12.2%, 10.3%, 10.1% and 9.35, respectively) in comparison with adolescents who never consume these foods during school hours (19.1%, 18.6%, 17.8%, 15.9% and 16.3%, respectively), finding a highly significant difference (p < 0.01) in the consumption of flavored water, fruit, natural water and yogurt. It was found that the food consumed during school hours has an impact on the nutritional status of adolescents, similar to the results found in the literature, so it is suggested to promote healthy habits and lifestyles at school and at home so that adolescents opt for healthy snack choices.
An investigation into the vitamin B1 and B2 content of a popular UK ready meal.
Authors: Rhule-Samuel Robyn , Patel Pryank , Tzounis Xenofon
Published: June 2020

Ready meals (RMs) are a convenient meal option, and it is assumed that they can be part of a balanced diet. Research has shown that energy, fat and salt content of RMs are “nutritionally chaotic”(Celnik et al., 2012), with many meals being significantly under- or overestimated in the labelling.

However, to our knowledge, no research has analysed the nutritional content of RMs in relation to labile water-soluble vitamins undergoing food processing, such as vitamin B1 or B2. Accurate estimations of certain water-soluble vitamins is important to understand whether RMs contribute sufficient amounts of these essential vitamins to the diet to meet the nutrient requirements for those who consistently consume RMs.

The ‘sausage and mash’ range of RM is one of the most popular RMs eaten by meals-on-wheels users and purchased in supermarkets. The aim of this study is to compare process-labile vitamin content; vitamin B1 and B2, in sausage and mash RMs, and carry out price comparison between meals.

Sausage and mash RMs from five RM suppliers were analysed in duplicate. Following derivatisation of Vitamin B1, both vitamin B1 and B2 were analysed with fluorescent detection using HPLC. All food samples were tested in triplicate. Kruskal-Wallis test was carried out to compare vitamin content between RMs from different RM providers. Pearsons correlation tested relationships between meal composition and RM price.

RMs significantly differed between providers where vitamin B1(x2 = 8.073, p < 0.05) and B2(x2 = 7.964, p < 0.05) content was between 1.05–3.73mg/serving and 0.033–0.098mg/serving, respectively. The price of the RMs ranged between £2.00-£3.50. Analysis showed that cheaper meals had a higher thiamine content (r = -0.675, p < 0.001), which could be due to the presence of green peas; a source of thiamine, in one of the cheaper RMs. Results showed that the percentage(%) of meat/serving was higher in the more expensive meals (r = 0.603, p < 0.001), and the cheaper meals had a higher percentage of mashed potatoes(r = -0.837, p < 0.001).

This study shows that there are differences in vitamin B1 and B2 between RM providers. This may mean that consumers are not aware of which meals may be the most nutritionally adequate. Price of meal has an impact on composition and therefore nutrient density. Future studies should analyse other process labile essential vitamins such as vitamin C and other B-group vitamins to establish accurate estimations of water-soluble vitamin content in RMs.
Evaluation of the individual workload perception of the personnel in food service system
Authors: Altun Hulya Kamarli , Kurklu Nilgun Seremet
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Organizational factors, insufficient wages, inadequate work performance of their co-workers and lack of physical working environment in the hospital food service system (FSS) cause the increase of the workload. This study aims to determine the individual workload perception of the FSS personnel and to ascertain whether the individual workload perception differs across demographic variables and occupational groups.

Materials and Methods

The population of this descriptive study consists of the personnel working in the kitchen of the Akdeniz University Hospital, and the sample consists of 87 people who accepted to participate in the study by filling out the questionnaire forms on a voluntary basis. Individual Workload Perception Scale was used to evaluate the personnel's perception on their work environment and Personal Information Form was used to detect the participants’ data related to the independent variables.

Results

Approximately half of the individuals (47.1%) participating in the study were aged 31–40 years (33.5 ± 7.32). 56.3% of the individuals were waiter and three quarters of the individuals worked in shifts. Total individual workload perception of the FSS personnel was detected as 64.7 ± 15.25 on average. The mean score of the colleague support sub-group of the individuals was the highest and the mean score of the unit support was the lowest. It was determined that FSS personnel did not display a statistically significant difference across age groups, gender, marital status, educational status and individual workload sub-groups. It was only seen that there was a significant association between the work distribution of the individuals and the colleague&unit support (p < 0.05). A positively significant correlation was detected in FSS personnel between colleague support (r = 0.859), unit support (r = 0.473), work environment perception (r = 0.647) and intention to resume current work (r = 0.434) subscales and total individual workload perception scale (p < 0.01).

Discussion

The workload of the FSS personnel working in the hospital was found to be high, and it is necessary to evaluate the individual workload and develop solutions for the provision of dietary services in a safe, high quality and efficient manner.
Removing a barrier – the effect of plant-based cooking skills on dietary habits. A mixed-method study
Authors: Reipurth Malou , Gregersen Charlotte G. , Armando Perez-Cueto Federico J.
Published: June 2020

Previous reports have shown that people perceive lack of cooking skills as a barrier to adopting a plant-based diet (Reipurth et al., 2018; Klöckner, 2017; Haverstock and Forgays, 2012; Pohjolainen, Vinnari, and Jokinen, 2015; Mullee et al., 2017). Cooking skills have been defined as “a set of mechanical or physical skills used in meal preparation” by Ternier (2010), whereas some perceive them as more complex and abstract, involving ideas, knowledge, and planning skills (Short, 2003; Caraher, 1999). This mixed-method study was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of cooking skills as a barrier, and which effect applied cooking skills have on consumers adopting and sustaining a plant-based diet. This was done by looking at people who had gained plant-based cooking skills by receiving a product that educated them in plant-based foods and delivered recipes and ingredients, with which the recipients cooked plant-based meals. The mixed-method study was comprised of a qualitative part (two focus group interviews with 10 participants) and a quantitative part (an online survey of 303 respondents).

The survey respondents were segmented based on their change in dietary habits after receiving the products, which was measured by their recalled change in intake of meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and plant-based foods. Four segments were identified; “Same All”, “Lower Omni Higher Plant”, “Lower Meat Higher Plant”, and “Lower Meat”. Clusters were profiled applying logistic regression models with cluster membership as the dependent variable, whereas the independent variables were the 12 attitudes towards consumption of plant-based diets, and the reasons for buying the product (also referred to as motivations), respectively.

The results from the qualitative study showed that the participants experienced minor changes while receiving the product, but lacked the menu planning skills, convenience, and habits necessary to maintain their plant-based diets after-wards. The results from the quantitative study suggested that changes towards plant-based consumption are affected by ethical factors, health, and sensory characteristics. A main finding of the quantitative survey was that it demonstrated how applying new cooking skills and experience with plant-based meals increase consumers’ intake of plant-based food and decrease their intake of animal products. This effect was greatest while receiving the product, although still evident up to six months after. The findings from the study concur with and add more depth to the findings from preceding literature on the subject and can be used to inform and inspire research towards promoting plant-based diets.
Dietary intakes of whole grains, health benefits but do contaminants pose a major risk?
Authors: Nugent Anne , Thielecke Frank
Published: June 2020

Introduction

There is a long history of use for whole grain cereals as part of human dietary intakes with records of dietary grain consumption from the Middle Stone Ages. Whole grains are nutrient dense and research demonstrates that the healthiest diets (those associated with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases e.g. cardiovascular disease or cancer) are characterised by higher intake of fruit, vegetables, nuts and legumes and whole grains and lower intakes of red and processed meats. Currently, grains are a main energy and carbohydrate source and as such form a cornerstone of food based dietary guidelines and dietary guidance globally. However, grains also naturally contain contaminants and as a food category can represent a significant dietary source of foodborne contaminants.

Materials and Methods

The outcomes of a narrative review on the major contaminants present in whole grains, their potential health risks and suggested strategies to mitigate any risk are described. Contaminants are limited to mycotoxins (aflatoxinB1, ochratoxin A, Fumonisin B1, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone), heavy metals (e.g. arsenic, cadmium, lead) and the process contaminant acrylamide.

Results

Whole grains can contain more contaminants than refined versions e.g. whole grain rice with bran intact can have up to 80% more arsenic than white rice. However, whole grains also provide more nutrients which may mitigate against the impact of these contaminants. For example, for heavy metals, there is some evidence that dietary fibres (e.g. wheat bran) may bind to them and reduce their absorption, as can nutrients naturally found in whole grains e.g. zinc, magnesium or copper. Minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc may also impede heavy metal absorption by down-regulating or competing for attachment to transporters that facilitate intestinal absorption. Although, strict regulatory thresholds and monitoring processes by competent authorities minimise any risk to public health, the consumer may further lessen any risk through their own dietary choices and food storage and preparation practices

Discussion

There are a number of potential health-protective properties inherent to whole grains. Given that complete elimination of contaminants from grains is unlikely to be achieved, their presence merits continued monitoring with evidence to date suggesting any such risk does not outweigh the known benefits of wholegrain consumption.
Do people change their diet after colorectal adenoma diagnosis?
Authors: El Mogassabi Abeir , Williams Elizabeth , Corfe Bernard , Hull Mark
Published: June 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cancer in the UK; 95% of CRCs develop from colorectal adenomas. Adults in England aged 60–74 years are screened for colorectal cancer through the national Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP) which aims to detect colorectal cancer early, and also remove colorectal adenomas. However, adenoma recurrence is common. The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) estimates that around 45% of CRC cases could be prevented by a healthy lifestyle. There are no specific dietary guidelines to protect against adenoma recurrence and patients do not receive dietary advice in the care pathway. Nonetheless understanding the dietary intake of people with adenoma who are at high-risk of developing CRC and their subsequent dietary behaviour post-diagnosis may design future intervention strategies.

This study aims to describe the diet of colorectal adenoma patients and evaluate whether there were elective changes in diet following diagnosis.

The data used in this study were obtained from colorectal adenoma patients at high risk of recurrence, recruited to the seAFOod polyp prevention trial through the English BCSP. Dietary intake was assessed using the EPIC Food Frequency Questionnaire at two time points: during the 12 months before and during the 12 months after adenoma diagnosis. FETA dietary analysis software was used to extract data. Paired Sample-T-Tests and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test were used to assess change in intake using SPSS version 25.

Of the 709 patients recruited to the main study, 526 completed the FFQ on both occasions, of whom 81.7% were males. The mean age was 65 years (SD 4.8), 83.4% were overweight or obese with mean BMI = 29.5 kg/m2 (SD 5.7). The majority of nutrient intakes met UK DRVs, with the exception of low intake of fibre, vitamin D and selenium. Following diagnosis, a significant reduction was detected in daily intake of energy (from 7.7 to 7.5 MJ, p < 0.05) meat and meat products (from 124 to 111 g, p < 0.005), non-alcoholic beverages (from 939 to 898 g, p < 0.05) and nuts (from 5.5 to 4.3 g, p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed that dietary changes were confined to men where the reduction in energy was by 293 kj/day and in meat by 1.5 portions per week.

Patients do modify diet following a diagnosis of adenoma and changes correspond to WCRF healthy diet guidelines. Whether detected difference between males and females was due to the sample size or due to actual difference in behavior is not clear.
The frequency of snacking and night-time eating habits in the adult obese patients
Authors: Wiśniewska Klaudia , Ślusarczyk Klaudia , Jabłonowska-Lietz Beata , Wrzosek Małgorzata
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Obesity is currently one of the world's most serious health problems and the number of obese people is constantly increasing. Unhealthy food habits, especially snacking and eating at night, result in increased energy intake and subsequently lead to weight gain. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of snacking and night-time eating among obese patients.

Materials and Methods

The study involved 476 obese people. For all subjects, anthropometric measurements (body weight and height) were taken and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Blood tests were also performed, including total cholesterol and fasting glucose levels. Data concerning the age and detailed clinical history of each patient were collected from the medical records. Survey questionnaires were used to assess eating habits, including the prevalence of snacking and night-time eating.

Results

The patients’ average age was 42.9 ± 11.9 and the BMI was in the range of 32.3–58.8. The majority of the participants (63%) had a BMI above 40 kg/m2, 26% of them had a BMI in the range of 35–39.9 kg/m2, and 11% of the subjects had class I obesity (BMI: 30.0–34.9 kg/m2). In the study group, 32% of the patients had type 2 diabetes, while 12% had pre-diabetes. In addition, 42% of the patients exhibited total cholesterol levels above 190 mg/dl and in the case of 52% of the patients, LDL cholesterol levels exceeded 115 mg/dl. The habit of snacking was characteristic for 89% of the respondents and 50% admitted to eating at night. Sweet foods were indicated as a snack of choice by 57% of the survey participants. A positive association between snacking and eating at night was also observed (OR = 11.55, 95% CI: 4.51–29.6 p < 0.0001).

Conclusions/Discussion

The study has demonstrated that snacking is very common among the surveyed obesity patients. What is more, it is often accompanied by night-time eating. The obtained results show how important it is to focus on actions aimed at helping the patients change their eating habits.
Framework for enhancing maternal nutrition: addressing under nutrition in tribal children inhabiting Central India
Authors: Doddalingannavar Suveena , Jain Ayushi , Agnihotri Satish B.
Published: June 2020

Our world is transitioning into a new generation of governance with much greater emphasis on targeted actions and mission mode programmes to achieve global sustainable goals (SDG). India with its Twenty-point programme which directly maps national and state programmes to global SDGs has been pacing up for 2030 targets. One of the major programmes that has been the prime focus is Integrated Child Development Services Scheme. India ranked 103rd among 119 countries on global hunger index, 2018. Significant reduction in malnutrition was seen among children below 6 years but the pace of reduction has been slow over the past decade. The path of malnutrition reduction of central belt states (tribal population dominant) deviates from rest of the country.

Our analysis of National Family Health Survey-4 (NFHS) found that 42% of tribal children are underweight (i.e. 1.5 times higher than non-tribal children), over 50% of prevalence of malnutrition is in tribal population. 100% Mother & Child Protection registration do not reciprocate to 100% all Anti-Natal Care visits showing faults in monitoring system indicating that the investment by government in all fronts, economic development has not translated into desired reduction in malnutrition. Their 8.6% population accounts to 30% cases of malaria translating to 50% malarial deaths indicative of higher disease burden. Malnutrition crisis among tribals begins way early manifesting in higher rates of Low Birth Weight deliveries (LBW) which is 3–4% higher compared to non-tribal population. This is due to low nutrient diet, laborious work during gestational period and high disease burden.

The focus of Maternal nutrition enhancement projects by Tribal Welfare Depts in these states should include nutrition sensitive along with nutrition specific interventions targeting the population under risk as well as entering risk. Now with district level data (NFHS) available every 4 years can aid in district level planning, shifting focus from population based to prevalence and exclusive planning for tribals. Our study involves developing a robust framework to enhance maternal nutrition through strong community mobilization and partnership. It also addresses the convergence issue being faced in the current system and paves a way forward for convergence among inter departmental schemes for larger participation by people and greater coverage of the scheme and its benefits.
Relation between breast milk energy density and the pre-conception BMI from donations of a human milk bank
Authors: Matías Yanira Flórez , Melendez Liliana Ladino , Núñez Sandra Patricia Guevara
Published: June 2020

Human breast milk is a high value biological substance that grants numerous benefits both to mother and child. Many aspects can produce changes in the milk composition; among them, the pre-conception body mass index (Pre-conception BMI) which is included as a factor that can influence the fat levels and therefore, the milk's energy density. To identify if there is a relation between the breast milk energy density from a human milk bank and Preconception BMI. It is a retrospective study that used information from donations registered in the human milk database at Hospital de Kennedy during 2016. The dependent variable is the energy density from 3 kinds of milk: colostrum, mature and transition milk. As independent variable, Preconception BMI was taken. The R free program version 3.3.0 was used for statistical analysis. The energy density average found for the 3 kinds of milk were: 20.59 + /- 2.3 kcal/oz, 20.51 + /- 2.17 kcal/oz y 19.21 + /- 2.53 for colostrum, transition milk and mature milk respectively. The Preconception BMI average from the donors was 23.56 Kg/m2 for colostrum, 23.9 Kg/m2 for transition milk and 23.1 Kg/m2 for mature milk. No relation between Preconception BMI and energy density of colostrum was found. However, for transition milk and Preconception BMI a directly proportional relation was found (p < 0.01), and for mature milk and Preconception BMI an inversely proportional relation was determined (p = 0.0387). There are internal and external factors than can affect the breast milk lipid content, such as movements of reserves through the organism to protect the milk production, hormonal action, dietary intake, physical activity and socio-economic and cultural aspects; that is why it is not possible to analyze the preconception BMI as a unique predictor of breast milk energy density in an isolated manner. Preconception BMI is related to human breast transition and mature milk energy density in donations registered in 2016 at Kennedy Hospital.
Gut microbiome characteristics at the crossroads of metabolic health and lifestyle patterns in an adult population
Authors: Mitsou Evdokia K. , Francino M. Pilar , Yannakoulia Maria , Antonopoulou Smaragdi , Kyriacou Adamantini
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Cumulative findings have recently highlighted the role of gut microbiota as a novel environmental factor in the fight against obesity and related comorbidities. We aimed to investigate (1) the gut microbiome characteristics of a Greek adult population in terms of adiposity prevalence and (2) to further elucidate the potential effect of physical activity level and adherence to a-priori (Mediterranean Diet) and a-posteriori dietary patterns in gut microbiota profiling after accounting for sex, age and obesity status.

Materials and Methods

Adult participants (n = 125) underwent clinical, anthropometric, dietary, physical activity and lifestyle evaluation. Obesity status [normal-weight (NW), overweight (OW), obesity (OB)] was defined based on body weight and height measurements, Body Mass Index calculation and the World Health Organization criteria. Levels of physical activity (low/medium/high) were estimated according to International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) scoring. Dietary intake was evaluated through a food frequency questionnaire. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was based on the MedDietScore and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied for dietary patterns analysis. Gut microbial community characteristics (diversity, richness and proportions at phylum level) were calculated based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

A total of 122 subjects (58 females; mean age 42.4 ± 13.1 years) completed the study. OB was characterized by lower proportions of Verrucomicrobia compared to NW state (p = 0.034 for univariate), unidentified bacteria (p = 0.014) and the Archaea Euryarchaeota (p = 0.003) compared to OW status, and the phylum Candidatus Saccharibacteria compared to NW (p = 0.027) and OW (p = 0.039) after sex and age adjustments. Regarding lifestyle parameters, our data proposed no significant effect of total physical activity levels on gut microbiome; notably, a ‘fruit and vegetables’ dietary pattern and adherence to Mediterranean diet were both characterized by lower microbial diversity and proportions of Actinobacteria but higher proportions of Cyanobacteria/Chloroplast and Lentisphaerae, respectively. Furthermore, a Western-type dietary pattern (high in full fat dairy products, potatoes, refined cereals, red meat, snacks and junkfood) was characterized by lower gut microbial richness (Chao1 index), whereas a healthy dietary pattern (high in low fat dairy and wholegrain cereals and low in snack and junk food) was characterized by higher proportion of Firmicutes.

Discussion

Our data proposed variable connections of metabolic health and dietary patterns with features of gut microbiota; design of gut microbiome studies is advisable to account for host- and lifestyle-related potential confounders.
Associations between folate intake, body composition, and liver status in healthy adults
Authors: Młodzik-Czyżewska Monika , Malinowska Anna , Chmurzynska Agata
Published: June 2020

A link has recently been underlined between one-carbon metabolism and body weight and body composition, suggesting that folate may account for body mass determination and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was thus to analyze whether folate intake is associated with body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and liver status.

409 subjects aged 20–40 were enrolled in Poznań, Poland from 2016 to 2018. Food intake was assessed using three-day food records. Folate intake was calculated based on food composition tables using the Diet 5.0 program (National Food and Nutrition Institute, Poland). Weight to 0.1 kg and height to 0.01 m were measured using an electronic scale and a stadiometer, respectively. BMI was calculated as body weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Fat mass and lean body mass were determined using whole-body air-displacement plethysmography (BodPod, Cosmed, Italy). Genotyping of rs1801133 (MTHFR) was performed with TaqMan probes. The following biomarkers of liver steatosis were calculated: NAFLD liver fat score (NAFLD-LFS), fatty liver index (FLI), and hepatic steatosis index (HSI). To analyze the associations between folate intake and the measured parameters, we used multiple regression with adjustments for age, sex, and energy intake.

The mean body weight was 78.57 ± 18.14 kg, BMI 25.96 ± 5.28 kg/m2, and fat percentage 29.20% ± 10.78%. The median folate intake was 299.3 μg/day. Dietary folate intake was negatively associated with body weight, BMI, and body fat percentage (p < 0.05 for all associations). Folate intake was also associated with fatty liver indices—namely HSI (p < 0.05) and FLI (p < 0.05). There was no association between folate intake and NAFLD-LFS. MTHFR rs1801133 polymorphism was not associated with any of the measured parameters.

Our findings suggest that folate intake may affect body weight and composition, as well as liver status. Higher folate intake could have a protective effect against obesity, but further studies are necessary to investigate the mechanism.

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interests.

This work was supported by the Polish National Science Centre

(grants 2014/15/B/NZ9/02134 and 2016/21/N/NZ9/01195).
Effect of vitamin B6 supplementation, in combination with magnesium, on severe stress and magnesium status: secondary analysis from an RCT
Authors: Noah Lionel , Pickering Gisèle , Dubray Claude , Mazur Andre , Hitier Simon , Pouteau Etienne
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Evidence from a recent randomised controlled trial1 suggests that in severely stressed subjects with low magnesemia, supplementation with magnesium (Mg) in combination with vitamin B6 (B6) provides greater benefits than Mg alone. B6 was reported to facilitate Mg absorption and its cellular uptake and to exert synergistic effect with Mg. The current secondary analysis explored the relationship between Mg-B6 combination and erythrocyte Mg concentration, used as a biomarker of body Mg status.

Material and Methods

An 8-week, Phase IV, controlled, single-blinded, parallel-group trial (EudraCT Number 2015-003749-24) stratified by sex was conducted in adults (n = 264) with a Depression Anxiety Stress Scales - stress subscale score (DASS-42SS) > 18 and serum Mg of 0.5–0.85mmol/L, randomised 1:1 to daily oral Mg-B6 (Magne B6®, Mg 300 mg; B6 30mg) or oral Mg alone (Magnespasmyl®, Mg 300mg). Outcomes were stress score, serum Mg (mmol/L), erythrocytes Mg (mmol/L), and serum B6 (nmol/L) from baseline to Week4 and Week8. Data are given as mean(SD) values.

Results & Discussion

Baseline characteristics. Baseline magnesemia was 0.80(0.04) for both groups. Erythrocyte Mg concentration for the lower quintile of the studied population (n = 53) was 0.73–1.62, below the normal range of 1.65–2.65 in general population. The mean stress score in this subgroup was higher [29.5(6.3)], but not significantly different from that in other quintiles [lowest value: 26.1(7.6)]. Baseline B6 serum level for the lower B6 quintile (5–23), below the normal range for general population, was suggestive of possible B6 deficiency.

Treatment effects. Both treatments increased slightly but not significantly erythrocyte Mg level from baseline to Week8 [1.84(0.03) to 1.86(0.03), and 1.86(0.03) to 188(0.03), respectively for Mg + B6 and Mg groups]. Significant changes were observed in subjects with low erythrocyte Mg level at baseline (< 1.6), namely an increase of + 0.13(0.04–0.22) for Mg + B6 and + 0.17(0.08–0.25) for Mg groups, but with no difference between treatments. Moreover, Mg + B6 supplementation led to a significant change (p < 0.0001) in serum B6 level between baseline and Wk8 [55.9(4.8) to 370.9(11.3)], as compared to Mg alone [51.9(4.8) to 51.5(11.3)].

In conclusion, both treatments significantly increased erythrocyte Mg in subjects with low Mg status. B6 supplementation did not lead to further increase in erythrocyte Mg level. We have previously shown that severely stressed population benefits from B6 supplementation in combination with Mg, however, the mechanism of the interaction between Mg and B6 remains to be elucidated.

1Sponsored by Sanofi
Breath volatile compounds and conjugated polyunsaturated fatty acids as metabolic biomarkers reflecting the interaction between chitin-glucan and the gut microbiota.
Authors: Rodriguez Julie , Neyrinck Audrey M. , Nazare Julie-anne , Zhang Zhengxiao , Seethaler Benjamin , Sanchez Candido Robles , Muccioli Giulio , Maquet Véronique , Bischoff Stephan C. , Walter Jens , Laville Martine , Delzenne Nathalie M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Dietary fibers (DF) are considered as beneficial nutrients for health. Current data suggest that their interaction with the gut microbiota largely contributes to their physiological effects. The FiberTAG project(1) innovates in searching for new biomarkers reflecting the health effect of dietary fibers, including chitin-glucan (CG, extracted from the fungal exoskeleton Aspergillus niger). CG improves metabolic disorders associated with obesity in mice, but its effect on gut microbiota composition and function has never been evaluated in vivo in humans.

Materials and Methods

CG (KitoZyme, Belgium) was given to healthy volunteers (n = 15), during three weeks (4.5g/day). Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) metabolites released in breath were analyzed using SYFT methodology. Fatty acid (FA) profiling was assessed in stool samples, by gas-liquid chromatography(2). The gut microbiome was analyzed by Illumina sequencing (V5-V6 region of 16S rRNA).

Results

Three weeks of CG supplementation was well tolerated and lead to changes in the kinetics of breath VOC, especially the short-chain fatty acid, alcohols and alkanes. Fecal vaccenic acid, produced upon the bacterial metabolism of fatty acids, was significantly increased by CG. Several bacterial genera were correlated with breath VOC (i.e. 2 methylbutyric acid and RuminococcaceaeUCG005). Moreover, Roseburia, often presented as a butyrate producer, was positively correlated with the production of a rumenic acid isomer “cis-9,cis-11-18:2”.

Discussion

We show that breath VOC analysis, a non-invasive methodology, reveals characteristics of microbiota-CG interactions. We also show that CG selectively changes the profile of FA metabolites, in favor of vaccenic acid, another bioactive metabolite produced by Roseburia, prone to act on host physiology. This study will help to establish a set of new biomarkers linking insoluble DF and gut microbiota, with focus on their interest in human health.
Propionic acid intervention in obese Ldlr-/-.Leiden mice attenuates NASH development, but negatively affects cognition
Authors: Gart Eveline , Tengeler Anouk , Morrison Martine , Kosicz Tamas , van Duyvenvoorde Wim , Kleemann Robert , Kiliaan Amanda
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

There is an increasing interest to elucidate the health effects of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) on metabolism, obesity and brain function. Obesity is often associated with the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cognitive impairment. We herein investigated potential health effects of the SCFA propionic acid (PA) on NASH development and brain function including cognition and behavior readouts.

Materials and Methods:

During 17 weeks of run-in, LDLR-/-.Leiden mice received either high-fat diet (HFD) to establish obesity or chow as control. Obese mice were matched into groups (n = 15/group) and treated with propionic acid (PA + HFD), or a reference fatty acid (caproic acid; CA + HFD), or HFD without supplements (HFD). Cognitive and behavioral effects, as well as metabolic and inflammatory risk factors, were assessed prior to and after 12 weeks of treatment. At endpoint, liver and adipose tissue pathology were histologically and biochemically analyzed.

Results:

PA, but not reference CA, reduced body weight and this effect was independent of food intake. PA also reduced fasting insulin levels and plasma cholesterol levels relative to the start of intervention. In addition, PA reduced total and subcutaneous fat mass, but did not affect WAT inflammation. Histopathological analysis of the liver demonstrated that PA reduced macrovesicular steatosis, hypertrophy and inflammation. Consistent herewith, PA reduced the inflammatory marker serum amyloid A and tended to increase intrahepatic ketone bodies (β-hydroxybutyrate), and lowered the hepatic collagen content. PA treatment did not affect normal behavior in the open field test but mice showed impaired spatial memory, i.e. the latency to find the platform in the Morris water maze was increased. In line with these findings, synaptophysin expression in the hippocampus and vasoactivity in both the cortex and hippocampus and mitochondrial activity in the cerebellum was decreased by PA. The reference fatty acid CA exerted no effects on the above readouts.

Discussion:

Overall, PA exerted pronounced positive effects on metabolic risk factors (insulin, cholesterol, adipose mass) and attenuated the development of NASH and liver fibrosis. The observed higher levels of intrahepatic ketone bodies suggest that lipid β-oxidation is increased which may contribute to the health effects in the liver and reduced fat mass. Contrarily, PA negatively affected spatial memory, which could be a result of reduced synaptophysin expression and decreased mitochondrial function in the brain leading to impaired neurotransmitter signaling and cognitive performance.
Plasma albumin redox state is superior to conventional biomarkers to indicate the presence of potential protein undernutrition
Authors: Wada Yasuaki , Izumi Hirohisa , Shimizu Takashi , Takeda Yasuhiro
Published: June 2020

The redox state of plasma albumin would reflect albumin synthesis rate, and could be useful to demonstrate the presence of potential protein undernutrition. Aiming to delineate the characteristics of plasma albumin redox state as a nutritional biomarker, adult male Wistar rats were maintained on AIN-93M (14% casein, control diet) or an AIN-93M-based low protein diet (5% casein) ad libitum for 4 weeks, and the two groups were compared by examining plasma albumin redox state, plasma/serum levels of conventional biomarkers for protein nutritional status, and plasma proteome. While no significant difference was seen in body weight at the end of the experimental period, plantaris muscle mass trended lower in the low protein diet group, implicating the manifestation of moderate protein undernutrition. The redox of plasma albumin was shifted to more oxidized state in the low protein diet group, and the shift persisted during the entire experimental period. In contrast, the levels of conventional biomarkers, plasma albumin and prealbumin, were initially decreased in the low protein diet group, and the differences were then dissolved later in the experimental period. Similarly, the levels of other biomarkers, plasma transferrin and serum retinol-binding protein-4, did not differ significantly at the end of the experimental period. Plasma proteomic analysis revealed that the abundances of proteins that constitute high-density lipoprotein (HDL), apolipoprotein A-II and paraoxonase-1, were decreased in the low protein diet group, which were then validated by confirming decreases in plasma HDL level, plasma HDL-cholesterol level, and serum paraoxonase-1 activity in the low protein diet group. According to epidemiological reports, dietary protein intake is positively associated with plasma HDL-cholesterol level, and the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, including lower HDL-cholesterol level, are closely related to frailty. Thus, it can be conceived that moderate dietary protein insufficiency would increase cardiovascular risks, such as reduction in HDL level and function (paraoxonase-1 activity), which could prime the onset of amyotropic diseases later in life, such as sarcopenia and frailty. Collectively, moderate dietary protein insufficiency would lead to decreased skeletal muscle mass, and also attenuate circulating HDL level and function, which could even aggravate the attenuation of skeletal muscle accretion; the redox state of plasma albumin would be instrumental over conventional biomarkers as an indicator of potentially protein undernourished status.