bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heart rate variability and long chain n-3 PUFA in patients with chronic kidney disease commencing haemodialysis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pinto Ana , MacLaughlin Helen , Gray Robert , Hall Wendy
Published: June 2020

The risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) is doubled when a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 5 starts haemodialysis. Low heart rate variability (HRV) has been reported to be independently associated with increased risk of SCD and all cardiac death in haemodialysis patients. Long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA; 20:5n-3, EPA and 22:6n-3, DHA) may exert anti-arrhythmic effects on cardiac myocytes. Haemodialysis patients have lower serum LC n-3 PUFA levels compared to populations without CKD. Few studies have investigated the relationship between LC n-3 PUFA and HRV in patients with CKD. This study aimed to characterise the variability of LC n-3 PUFA status in patients who recently commenced haemodialysis, and to investigate relationships between LC n-3 PUFA status and HRV. A cross-sectional study was conducted in adults aged 40–80 years with CKD commencing haemodialysis (within 6–10 weeks) (NRES research ethics committee ref: 14/LO/0186). At 2 separate study days, pre-dialysis blood samples were taken to measure fatty acid composition by GC, and HRV monitors (Actiheart, CamNtech Ltd, UK) were fitted after dialysis had started to monitor parameters of cardiac autonomic function during dialysis, during the night, and for a total of 24 h. Forty-five patients (mean age 58 y, SD 9, 20 females/25 males) completed data collection at least once; 91% presented hypertension and 39% had type 2 diabetes. Sample mean omega-3 index (O3I; EPA + DHA as a % of fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes) was very low (3.45%, SD 1.25; median 3.26 %, IQR 1.32); only 2 individuals had O3I > 5%. Variability in erythrocyte EPA (median 0.66 %, IQR 0.42) and DHA (median 2.40 %, IQR 1.32) was limited. Most HRV parameters did not significantly correlate with O3I following adjustment (e.g. age, BMI, β-blockers). Plasma EPA significantly positively correlated with overall and longer phase components of HRV and significantly negatively correlated with beat-to-beat variability over 24 h after full adjustment for confounders. This suggests that although higher circulating EPA concentrations were associated with better cardiac responsivity to environmental stimulations over 24 h, they were also associated with poorer parasympathetic tone (the predominant influence on beat-to-beat HRV). No correlations were observed between plasma DHA and HRV. The divergent pattern of relationships between plasma EPA versus DHA and HRV raises the theory that patients commencing haemodialysis may have compromised conversion of EPA to DHA which may impair vagally-mediated regulation of cardiac autonomic function, a potential mechanism for high risk of SCD.
Accuracy of resting metabolic rate prediction equations in female rugby players
Authors: O'Neill Jack , Walsh Ciara , McNulty Senan , Corish Martha , Gantly Hannah , Crognale Domenico , Horner Katy
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to investigate (1) the accuracy of resting metabolic rate (RMR) prediction equations in female rugby players on a group and individual level; and (2) whether individual differences in the accuracy of prediction equations is associated with muscle damage or energy availability.

RMR was assessed in 14 female provincial and club rugby players (Age: 20–34 years, FFM: 47–63 kg, FM: 15–37%) training a minimum of twice per week. Participants attended the laboratory following an overnight fast and having avoided strenuous exercise for 24 hours. RMR was measured over 30 minutes by indirect calorimetry, and taken as the 10 minutes with the lowest variation. Body composition was assessed by air displacement plethysmography, muscle damage indicated by creatine kinase (CK) and risk of low energy availability assessed by the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire. Accuracy of RMR prediction equations relevant to the general population and athletes were assessed including the Harris Benedict (1919), Cunningham (1980) and Ten Haaf FFM (2014) based equations.

Measured RMR was 1748 ± 146 kcal/day (range: 1474–2010 kcal/day). Predicted RMR determined by the Harris-Benedict equation (1601 ± 120 kcal/day) was significantly lower than measured RMR (p < 0.001), whereas predicted RMR using the Cunningham (1753 ± 146 kcal/day, p = 0.89) and the Ten Haaf (1781 ± 115 kcal/day, p = 0.33) equations did not differ from measured RMR. On an individual level, 50% (n = 7), 86% (n = 12) and 79% (n = 11) of participants fell within 10% of the measured RMR value when RMR was predicted by Harris-Benedict, Cunningham and Ten Haaf equations respectively. CK values were 182 ± 155U/L (range: 25–490U/L). When correlations of the whole group were studied, the difference between predicted and measured RMR was not associated with CK (r = 0.13). However, in the two individuals who fell outside the 10% range of that predicted by the Cunningham equation, one above and one below, CK values were 428U/L and 166U/L respectively. Muscle damage (as indicated by a high CK value) could therefore be one potential explanation for the higher measured RMR in the individual who was above the Cunningham predicted value.

In this cohort of female rugby players, the Cunningham equation showed the best accuracy on a group and individual level, suggesting this may be the most suitable prediction equation for this population. Further studies with larger sample sizes and investigating underlying reasons for why RMR measured values may differ from predicted values are needed.
In vivo kinetic study of the materno-fetal fatty acid transfer in obese and normal weight pregnant women
Authors: Gázquez Antonio , Prieto-Sánchez María T. , Blanco-Carnero José E. , van Harskamp Dewi , Perazzolo Simone , Efraim Oosterink J. , Demmelmair Hans , Schierbeek Henk , Sengers Bram G. , Lewis Rohan M. , van Goudoever Johannes B. , Koletzko Berthold , Larqué Elvira
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Placental function can be modified by maternal obesity affecting the materno-fetal fatty acid transport process. We analyze for the first time the in vivo materno-fetal kinetic transfer of fatty acids (FA) labeled with stable isotopes in control and obese pregnant women.

Materials and Methods:

Labelled FA with similar metabolism (stearic acid: 13C-SA, palmitic acid: 13C-PA and oleic acid: 13C-OA) were orally administered at -4 h, -8 h, and -12 h, respectively prior to elective caesarean section to 10 pregnant women with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 and 10 with BMI 25–30 (control). Placenta, venous and arterial cord blood were collected obtaining a wide range of FA enrichments. A combined experimental and computational modeling analysis was applied.

Results:

FA Fractional synthesis rate (FSR) in placenta was 11–12% per hour. No differences were observed between control and normo-lipidemic obese pregnant women. It was not possible to estimate FA FSR in cord blood with this oral bolus dose approach. Computational modelling demonstrated a good fit to the data when all maternal plasma lipid classes were included but not with modelling based only on the non-esterified FA fraction (NEFA). The estimated materno-fetal 13C-FA transfer was around 1%.

Conclusions:

Our approach using multiple 13C-FA tracers allowed us to estimated FSR in placental/maternal plasma but not in fetal/maternal compartments. Computational modelling showed a consistent time course of placental 13C-FA transfer and predicted total fetal FA accumulation during the experiment. We conclude that in addition to NEFA in the maternal circulation, maternal plasma VLDL and other lipoproteins are important contributors to placental FA transfer to the fetus.
Insights into the association of potassium intake with blood pressure: results of a dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Filippini Tommaso , Torres Duarte , Lopes Carla , Carvalho Catarina , Moreira Pedro , Naska Androniki , Kasdagli Maria-Iosifina , Malavolti Marcella , Orsini Nicola , Vinceti Marco
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Observational studies provide evidence for an association between potassium intake and BP levels. However, uncertainties still exist about the size and the shape of this relation. Conversely, experimental studies have not been used to estimate dose-response curves, since standard methods can only be applied in trials including at least three exposure groups.

Materials and Methods:

We carried out a systematic review of the evidence concerning the effect of potassium supplementation on blood pressure in epidemiologic experimental studies. Following a PubMed search up to June 20, 2019, we included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) encompassing potassium supplementation as the only intervention for at least four weeks. We used a restricted cubic spline model and the ‘one-stage’ approach to perform a dose-response meta-analysis, a newly-developed statistical procedure which allows inclusion of studies with as few as two categories of exposure (Stat Methods Med Res. 2019;28:1579–1596). Finally, we repeated the analyses stratifying for hypertensive status and use of anti-hypertensive medication.

Results:

Overall, we included 33 studies carried out in adult population, with potassium supplementation ranging from 30 to 140 mmol/day. RCTs’ duration ranged from 4 up to 26 weeks. Most of the studies have a cross-over design (N = 24), include hypertensive individuals (N = 27) and subjects not under anti-hypertensive medication (N = 27). Overall, an increase of 40, 80 and 120 mmol/day of potassium resulted in reductions of SBP by -5.64 (95% CI - 8.78, -2.50), -4.62 (-6.41, -2.84) and -2.54 mmHg (95% CI -5.14, + 0.06), respectively. Higher potassium intakes also resulted in reduced DBP levels by -3.57 (95% CI -5.55, -1.59), -3.07 (95% CI -5.07, -1.08), and -1.92 mmHg (95% CI -5.65, 1.81). The effect of increasing potassium intake on BP was larger among hypertensives than normotensives, and among pharmacologically untreated hypertensives compared to their treated counterparts. Subgroup analyses according to study design (parallel vs. crossover) yielded similar results.

Discussion:

With the application of advanced dose-response modeling on RCT results, we found a U-shaped relation between potassium intake and blood pressure. A low to moderate increase in potassium intake resulted in a progressive reduction in blood pressure, which was reversed at higher levels of potassium supplementation. The effect was stronger among untreated hypertensives.

Supported by grant GP-EFSA-AFSCO-2017-01 GA09 of the European Food Safety Authority - EFSA. The text reflects only the authors' view; and EFSA is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.
Potential immunological effects of fermentable fibres in athletes
Authors: Torquati Luciana , Tamburo Steven , Macusi Andrea , Brunetti Alessandra , Iengo Chiara , Sponsiello Nicola , Santoni Giorgio , Nabissi Massimo
Published: June 2020

Recent findings point at novel benefits of specific fibres, like inulin, as their fermentation metabolites can improve mucosal immunity and protect against infections (1,2). This outcome is desirable for athletes, who are at increased exposure to oxidative damage and thus risk of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). However, whether inulin can improve immune function in athletes is unknown. We investigated the effect of supplementation with inulin-enriched foods on salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA), a marker of immunity associated with URTI, in rugby players. We hypothesised that inulin supplementation would increase sIgA, and such change would be greater than that observed in a group following a diet without inulin supplementation. Ten rugby players volunteered for this pilot study (24.2 ± 5.4 years, 93.2 ± 18.7 kg). Participants were randomly assigned to either control (CON) or intervention diet (IN) for 3-weeks; and provided with 2% inulin-enriched pasta and bread (IN) or the same products without inulin (CON), to be consumed as part of a prescribed diet plan. sIgA was measured before and after each condition by collecting saliva with validated swabs, and was quantified with enzyme-linked immunoassay. Differences within and between groups were assessed with paired-samples t-test and ANOVA, respectively. Relationships between inulin intake and sIgA were explored with Spearman's correlation and regression analysis. There was a significant increase in sIgA following inulin supplementation (p = 0.002), which was significantly different to CON (+ 53.6 ± 44.7 and 5.8 ± 37.2 mg/dL, p = 0.054). Average inulin intake was 10.9 ± 1.6 g/day, and it was positively associated with sIgA (rs = 0.661, p = 0.038) and correlated with sIgA changes (r2 = 0.438, p = 0.037). There were no significant differences in energy intake between and within groups (p > 0.10). There were no reports of upper-respiratory tract or other infections during the study period (winter). Some IN participants reported improved bowel function. Inulin-enriched products could represent a simple approach to promote mucosal immunity and gut health in athletes. Larger controlled trials are warranted to confirm the dose-response and long-term effects of inulin supplementation including metabolic and performance outcomes.
Folic acid as preventive therapy for hearing loss: effect of ototoxic drug consumption
Authors: Morais-Moreno Carmen , del Pilar Garzón-Riveros María , Murillo-Cuesta Silvia , Rodríguez-de la Rosa Lourdes , Montero Ana , Pajares María Ángeles , Pérez-Miguelsanz Julia , Varela-Nieto Isabel , Varela-Moreiras Gregorio , Partearroyo Teresa
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is a sensory impairment, with a dramatic increase in its incidence, which is caused by genetic and environmental factors such as noise and ototoxic drugs. Recent studies correlated ARHL to elevated plasma homocysteine (Hcy) by folate deficiency, suggesting that reduction of Hcy levels by folate supplementation could potentially ameliorate ARHL.

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), a status that contributes to ARHL, may also arise from malfunction of Hcy remethylation by betaine homocysteine S-methyltransferases (BHMTs) and methionine synthase in the methionine cycle. The expression and/or activity of these enzymes may be altered by ototoxic drugs, including paracetamol (APAP).

Objective

To determine the effect of APAP in cochlear morphology and function of control and Bhmt-/- mice, and to analyze putative preventive effects of folic acid (FA) supplementation.

Materials and Methods

Two-month-old Bhmt-/- mice (n = 47), with greater dependence on folate metabolism for Hcy remethylation, and Bhmt + / + mice (n = 42) were fed control or FA supplemented diets for 30 days. The last day APAP (250 mg/kg) or placebo were injected intraperitoneally.

Hearing was evaluated by recording auditory brainstem responses (ABR) at the beginning of the experiment and after treatments. Picrosirius red staining was used for evaluation of the cochlear lateral wall cytoarchitecture. Plasma and hepatic metabolite levels were determined by HPLC or on Spinlab 100® autoanalyzer.

Results

Loss of Bhmt expression induced HHcy, but an impact on hearing acuity was not observed. Acute APAP administration did not induce ABR threshold shifts. However, following ototoxic treatment, changes of 5–17% in the areas of the stria vascularis and spiral ligament were detected between Bhmt-/- mice under different dietary treatments; cochlear structures of Bhmt-/- mice receiving APAP plus FA supplementation resemble those of the control group. APAP increases susceptibility to ototoxic damage in the presence of HHcy.

Discussion

BHMT plays a central role in cochlear methionine metabolism. FA supplementation modulates Hcy levels, contributing to a proper remethylation status that prevents ARHL.
Acute cognitive, mood and cardiovascular effects of green and black tea
Authors: Scholey Andrew , Burns Alicia , Pase Matt , Pipingas Andrew
Published: June 2020

Tea is often described as having “refreshing” properties. Indeed, components of both green and black tea have been shown to acutely improve aspects of cognition and mood and to affect cardiovascular function. There is, however, surprising little research directly comparing these effects between different types of tea. This study therefore examined acute cognitive, mood, and cardiovascular effects of green tea and black tea.

A double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled,balanced, three-way cross-over study was conducted. Fourteen healthy young adults (M = 23.8, SD = 3 years) consumed placebo (water), green tea and black tea in balanced order at least 24 h apart.The drinks were prepared according to standardised procedures and consumed under double-blind conditions (in opaque containers with lemon cordial added for taste-masking). Mood and cognition were measured at baseline then 90 min post-treatment, cardiovascular function was assessed post-dose only. Mood was evaluated using a series of visual analogue scales, cognitive performance was assessed using a suite of standardised tests from the Computerised Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS), gauging performance on aspects of attention, memory and executive function.Peripheral and central systolic and diastolic pressure,augmentation pressure, augmentation index,and blood flow velocity were measured via Sphygmocor pulse wave analysis and Doppler ultrasound, respectively. There were a number of significant effects associated with the active treatments. Compared with placebo, black tea and green tea was associated with significantly improved digit vigilance accuracy (p < .01), while green tea was associated with higher alertness (p < .05).Regarding cardiovascular outcomes, black tea and green tea significantly increased central diastolic pressure, and peripheral diastolic pressure in comparison to placebo (P < .01). Black tea also significantly increased central systolic pressure compared to green tea and placebo (p < .05). Analysis of treatment guessing suggested that the masking procedure was highly effective. In conclusion, the present study shows that green tea improves alertness. Since black tea contains higher levels of caffeine, this effect is likely underpinned by non-caffeine mechanisms or caffeine/non-caffeine compound interactions.Improved vigilance is consistent with caffeine effects which may be modulated by cardiovascular effects. Interestingly the cardiovascular effects are opposite to those reported for chronic tea interventions. These results suggest that acute cognitive and cardiovascular components of tea merit further investigation both in the presence and absence of caffeine.
Nonsurgical complications after bariatric surgery
Authors: Simoens Caroline , Verbiest Astrid , Van der Borght Wout , Van den Eynde Amber , Brenninkmeijer Karen , Moyson Carolien , Matthys Christophe , Meulemans Ann , Lannoo Matthias , Van der Schueren Bart , Mertens Ann
Published: June 2020

The increasing worldwide prevalence of obesity is a major public health concern, which has led to the development of surgical treatment strategies that achieve long-term sustainable weight loss and improvement of comorbidities and quality of life. However, nonsurgical complications can occur which sometimes necessitate hospital readmission depending on the severity. Current literature about hospital admission for nonsurgical complications after bariatric surgery is especially sparse. We performed a 5-year retrospective analysis of patients admitted for nonsurgical complications after bariatric surgery at the Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven (Belgium). Patient and readmission characteristics were described by type of first bariatric surgery performed, time after first surgery, amount of bariatric surgeries in total, reason for hospitalization (nutritional, functional, psychological, metabolic and medical), need for parenteral and enteral feeding during hospitalization and duration of hospitalization. In a period of five years, there were 152 hospitalizations of 107 patients (86% females). The majority of patients (53%) underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and had in total 1 (1–2) bariatric procedures. The median BMI before the first bariatric procedure was 40.7 (37.9–46.7) kg/m2. Patients were admitted 7.6 (3.4–13.1) years after surgery at an average age of 49 ± 12 years. Nutritional (66.4%), functional (37.5%) and co-presenting nutritional-functional (25.0%) problems were the most important reasons for hospitalization. In regard to the nutritional complications, the most important reasons for hospital admission were dumping syndrome (19.7%), macro- and micronutrient deficiencies (16.4%), bad compliance to prescribed nutritional guidelines (14.5%), anorexia (11.2%), extensive weight loss (10.5%) and failure to thrive (9.2%). During hospitalization, parenteral and enteral feeding was started in 19.1% and 9.9% of hospitalizations, respectively. The median duration of all hospitalizations was 8 (4–13) days. To conclude, the majority of hospitalized patients underwent RYGB and was female. Most patients were admitted late after surgery and nutritional problems were the most common complication. Nonsurgical complications after bariatric surgery are a clear illustration of the double-edged sword of surgical obesity management. The exact gastrointestinal anatomical and physiological changes provide the intended effect of weight loss, but may also elicit unintended imbalances of excessive losses of nutrients that compromise the outcome. Our findings demonstrate the need for lifelong multidisciplinary follow-up of lifestyle behavior and education on diet both before and after bariatric surgery.
The role of gastric emptying in β-carotene absorption during simulated in vitro digestion
Authors: Kalungwana Ng'andwe , Marshall Lisa , Mackie Alan , Bosch Christine
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The availability of β-carotene from provitamin A rich foods in order to improve the provision of vitamin A in humans through food-based approaches is an important factor in mitigating micronutrient deficiencies. However, the extent of intestinal absorption (and subsequent availability of carotenoids to target tissues) is dependent on meal preparation, components of the meal and other intrinsic factors during gastro-intestinal (GI) digestion. Gastric emptying (GE), dictated by the caloric value of a meal, has been suggested as a critical component in determining β-carotene absorption. Indeed, dietary intake of high energy meals may just unravel the underlying factors associated with low uptake of dietary carotenoids during digestion. While several studies have reported the uptake of β-carotene as an individual pure compound under different digestive conditions(1), very few studies have assessed the effects of dietary carotenoids embedded in an energy dense meal, as would normally be consumed, on GI transit time and subsequent nutrient release.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we investigated the role of meal composition, particularly its caloric value, in modulating gastric emptying and thus the absorption of β-carotene. A step-by-step in vitro semi-dynamic model that simulates adult gastric digestion(2) was used on a prepared standard meal whose caloric value was estimated based on the Atwater system as described elsewhere with the assumption that the caloric density of the meal will assume a linear GE rate of 2kcal/min.

Results

Preliminary results indicate that, short transit times of 40 minutes, mimicking early GE, have the highest concentration (3.84 ± 0.014; Mean SD) and therefore, highest bioaccessibility (55.7%) compared to the longer transit time of 160 minutes (0.81 ± 0.002; Mean SD) and (11.8%) for β-carotene concentration and bioaccessibility from a standard meal, respectively.

Discussion

The results suggest that gastric behaviour of the food determines the kinetics of bioaccessibility that may not result in low β-carotene release and ultimately low bioaccessibility from the embedded matrix.
Consumption of fruit and vegetables: the ROUND (woRld map of cOnsUmption of fruit and vegetables and Nutrient Deficits) project
Authors: Gregori Dario , French Megan , Gallipoli Silvia , Lorenzoni Giulia , Ghidina Marco
Published: June 2020

Introduction: In 2017, 11 million deaths and 255 million DALYs were attributable to dietary risk factors, with low intake of fruits being the leading risk factor globally(1). Adequate F&V consumption is considered in the WHO (2010) report on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to reduce the risk for NCDs (e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers). Recommended daily intake of F&V vary from the WHOs 3400 g/day to ~750 g/day (including potatoes) in the U.S(2), but per capita availability is not always met, even in Europe(3). Increased availability, affordability, and consumption of F&V is part of policy options in the WHOs 2013–2020 global action plan for the prevention and control of NCDs. The aim of the ROUND project is to evaluate consumption of F&V in adults between countries and to identify, characterize, and map interactively vulnerable population groups and nutrient deficiencies, thus providing a useful tool for research and policy.

Methods: Data relating to adult consumers from dietary surveys in Europe and the United States were assessed. Analyses were performed using Bayesian hierarchical models.

Results: Data for adults from surveys contained within the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Comprehensive European food consumption database and U.S Food Intakes Converted to Retail Commodities Database FICRCD were included in the analysis. Mean per capita daily consumption of total fruit, vegetables (excluding starchy roots/tubers), fresh legumes, and F&V juice in Europe ranges from 261 g/d in Latvia (2008) to 552 g/d in Romania (2012), and in the U.S from 560 g/d (2005/06) to 616 g/d (2001/02). Mean fruit intake (excluding juice) alone ranges from 85 ± 98 g/d in Ireland (2008) to 226 ± 231 g/d in Estonia (2013), mean vegetable intake ranges from 62 ± 58 g/d in Sweden (1997) to 382 ± 194 g/d in Romania (2012), and mean F&V juice intake ranges from 6 ± 32 g/d in Romania (2012) to 223 ± 368 g/d in Germany (2007).

Discussion: Data on adult F&V consumption varies across countries and are often below recommended intake [3]. Identification and interactive mapping of low F&V consuming regions highlights vulnerable population groups which provides a useful tool for related research and policy.
Food & Nutrition: The driving factors of our gut microbes
Authors: Scholz Matthias , Staudacher Heidi , Fava Francesca , Tuohy Kieran , Whelan Kevin
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The gut microbiome has attracted much attention in the last decade due to new studies and technologies revealing how gut microbes play a key role in human health and disease risk. However, we still know little about how diets, foods and nutrients shape the gut microbiome.

Materials and Methods: To expand our knowledge about the complex relationship between nutrient intake and intestinal bacteria, we performed a broad dietary study covering diverse foods and nutrient intakes of nearly 100 adults. We analyzed metataxonomic data from 16S rRNA sequencing and correlated the microbial abundances of the top 55 dominant taxonomic groups with collected intakes of 40 food groups and 44 nutritional parameters, as well as degree of adherence to healthy eating patterns. Based on Spearman correlation profiles and hierarchical clustering, we also identified food groups and nutritional parameters that modulate in a similar manner microbial community structure.

Results: We will present preliminary results showing direct effects of specific dietary patterns (e.g. adherence to the Mediterranean style diet), food groups (e.g., fruits, nuts, dairy) and nutrients (e.g. iron, magnesium, zinc) on specific genera of the gut microbiota. We found significant associations between alcohol and the bacterial genus Holdemania. We will show that food groups supposed to belong to the same higher-level food category do not always show the expected effect on the gut microbes, which supports the need for a detailed food classification scheme to investigate dietary effects. Similarly, we found that correlations at dietary and higher food group levels more consistently reflect existing diet:microbe associations from the literature while correlations at the nutrient level are prone to confounding factors only apparent at higher alimentary ontology.

Discussion: Our study aims at a more complete understanding of the complex relations between human diet and gut microbiome community structure. Initial results confirm that both the quantity of a nutrient and the dietary source of a nutrient can both influence associations with gut bacteria. Our results may help to define new strategies for modelling diet:microbe interactions in the gut providing a new valuable tool to assist the nutrition and gut microbiome communities.
Dietary diversity in eight Latin American countries: Results from ELANS Study
Authors: Gomez Georgina , Fisberg Regina Mara , Previdelli Agatha Nogueria , Kovalskys Irina , Fisberg Mauro , Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Sanabria Lilia Yadira Cortes , Yepez Martha Cecilia , Pareja Rossina G. , Rigotti Attilio
Published: June 2020

Dietary diversity, define as the number of food items or food groups consumed over a given period of time measured at the household or individual level, is widely recognized as a key dimension of diet quality. This analysis investigated dietary diversity in eight Latin-American countries and its associations with sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters.

Data from the ELANS study conducted in eight Latin-American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela) were analyzed. The ELANS study interviewed 9,218 subjects living in the main cities in each country. Food intake were collected using two 24-hour dietary recalls, following the Multiple Pass Method. For calculation of diet diversity score, only the first 24-hour recall was analyzed. Dietary diversity was assessed at individual level. All food items reported to be consumed during the first 24-hour recall were classified into nine food groups: 1. Cereals, 2. White roots and tubers, 3. Vegetables, 4. Fruits, 5. Meat, poultry and offal, 6. Fish and seafood, 7. Eggs, 8. Pulses, legumes and nuts and 9. Milk and milk products. The selection of these groups was based on the Women's Dietary Diversity Score Projectfood groups classification. Consumption of at least 15 g of each food group was assigned 1 point or 0 points if consumption was less than 15 g. Thus, the score ranged from a minimum of 0 and a maximum of 9 points. Higher scores indicated higher diversity as more food groups were eaten. Analysis was performed by age group, gender, and socioeconomic level (SES) as well as anthropometric measurements.Mean diet diversity score (DDS) for the whole sample was 4.48 ± 1.16, ranging from 0 to 9 points. Men showed significant higher DDS. No difference was observed among age groups. Among countries, Ecuador and Peru showed the highest DDS, 4.88 ± 1.22 and 4.82 ± 1.12 points, respectively; while Argentina (4.20 ± 1.13) and Venezuela (4.27 ± 1.04) reported the lowest. We found a statistically significant trend (p < 0.001) to a higher DDS among those subjects in the high socio-economic level. Regarding anthropometric measurements, no differences were found in DDS among different nutritional status or based on waist and neck circumference measures.This study revealed that dietary diversity is limited among Latin American countries regardless of sex, age, socioeconomic level, and nutritional status. Nutritional interventions emphasizing the importance of maximizing dietary diversity should be encouraged to ensure optimum nutritional adequacy within the region
Characteristics of fast food consumption among adolescents
Authors: Baspakova Akmaral , Zinalieva Ainur , Abitova Anara , Rakhmanov Yeltay
Published: June 2020

Special attention is paid to healthy eating in order to promote the health of children and adolescents. Eating habits are formed in childhood, respectively, a child who has eaten unhealthy food, including fast food, is at additional risk of noncommunicable diseases. Fast food is convenient and made to meet the tastes of consumers through the use of salt, sugar and fat. In addition, some ingredients can cause salience and physiological reactions that contribute to weight gain.

Improper nutrition of children and adolescents, non-compliance with the daily diet and the use of fast food products can lead to some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, as well as bronchial asthma, some endocrinological diseases. Therefore, the purpose of our research work was to determine the frequency of fast food consumption by adolescents in Aktobe, Republic of Kazakhstan.

The study was approved by the Local ethical Commission of the West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University of Aktobe, Republic of Kazakhstan (№2 from 30.01.2018). By applying the questionnaire of the method was conducted experimentally controlled studies. The study involved 209 adolescents aged 15–18 years. Factors such as age and health were controlled. The primary data were analyzed using the McNemar's test, the open responses were coded, and the data were analyzed using SPSS Statistical Version 25.

36.8% of the respondents consume fast food a couple times a week, 48.8% consume it once a week, and the remaining 14.3% consume the mentioned food several times a month. Before buying food, it was found that those who took care of food's nutritional value were 47.8%, and 52.1% did not care about it. After having been informed of the dangers of fast food that the consumption of fast food leads to obesity, comparative differences were found in the results, respondents that answered “no” attained 5,26 %, p = 0.0001 (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]]: 40 [36,6–44,3]). Healthy education programme offered to the adolescents led to the comparative difference in previous data to 5.9% in respondents who liked fast food and intended to continue taking on p = 0.0001 (OR and 95% CI: 33,3 [31,9–36,2]). After having attended the seminar on healthy eating, the number of respondents who liked and intended to continue consuming French fries and chips were decreased to 3.17%, relative differences were obtained before retrieving data p = 0.0001 (OR and 95% CI: 20.0 [18, 6–22.9]).

Teenagers quite often use fast food and the majority of respondents visit fast food cafes, without thinking that poor nutrition is one of the factors of noncommunicable diseases and obesity among teenagers.
Development and validation of measure of household food insecurity in Northern Rao PDR
Authors: Hwang Ji-Yun , Lee Seoungwoo John , Yang Mi Nae
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Lao PDR is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranked the 138th of 188 developing countries. Although household food insecurity has been prevalent in Northern Rao PDR, no valid measurement of household food insecurity exists. Therefore, the study was to develop a household food insecurity questionnaire and verify the validity of the questionnaire in the rural areas of Lao PDR.

Materials and Methods

Using a multistage-sampling cross-sectional study, the sample included 373 households with children under 5 years of age living in Xieng Khouang, Lao PDR. The questionnaire was composed of 18 items based on the US household Food Security Survey Module and partially modified to local circumstances. Internal consistency of questions measured with Cronbach's α was adequate, result of 0.746. External validity was evaluated through comparison analyses between food insecurity levels and household socioeconomic indicators.

Results and discussion

Among 373 households, 42.7% were food-insecure and 4.3% were food-insecure with hunger. There were more food-insecure households in those with lower maternal education levels (P < 0.001), greater number of household members (P < 0.001), longer travel time to farmland (P = 0.003), and lower household asset scores (P < 0.001). Households with the residence made of natural material for walls (P < 0.001), roofs (P < 0.001) and floors (P < 0.001) as well as without electricity (P < 0.001), pipe to supply drinking water (P < 0.001), and income other than agriculture (P < 0.001) had higher food insecurity than their counterparts. In addition, inadequate maternal prenatal care and education, child health care, and vaccinations increased household food insecurity. Mothers and children in food-insecure households had lower intakes of various food groups including protein-source foods. This study would provide a valid instrument to assess food insecurity and be used in the future as an evaluation tool for the improvement of nutritional deficiencies as well as a tool for selection of target subjects in Northern Rao PDR.
Nutrient profiling of ready to eat breakfast cereals reveals substantial differences in macronutrient composition despite similar nutrition claim usage
Authors: Heslin Aoibhin Moore , Yang Mengna , Buffini Maria , Nugent Anne , Kehoe Laura , Kearney John , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert , McNulty Breige
Published: June 2020

Under Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 the usage of nutrition and health claims are permitted, however foods that are high in fat, sugars and salt are advised not to use such claims as foods promoted with these claims may influence consumer food choice. The use of nutrient profiles has been proposed as a means of avoiding the potential of such claims masking the overall nutritional status of a product. Ready to eat breakfast cereals (RTEBC) often display nutrition claims whilst also contributing significantly to total sugar and energy intake. The aim of this study was to profile a variety of RTEBC and compare nutrient composition and claim information between nutrient profile categories.

The Irish National Food Ingredient database (INFID) is a record of brand specific information from food labels collected during the Irish national food surveys. A convenience sub-sample of RTEBC as eaten by Irish children during the National Children's Food Survey 2 (2017/2018) were selected (n = 102). Nutrient profile (NP) scores were calculated using the UK Nutrient Profiling Model (FSA). NP scores were calculated based on a set of negative macronutrient indicators (energy, saturated fat, total sugars and sodium) minus positive indicators (protein, fibre, “fruit, vegetables and nuts”) present per 100 g. Foods scoring four points or more were classified as “less healthy”.

More than half of RTEBC were classed “less healthy” (53%) with a median NP score of 8.0 with “healthy” RTEBC scoring significantly lower at -0.0 (p < 0.001). “Healthy” RTEBC had a median sugar content of 13.4g/100 g compared to 24g/100 g in the “less healthy” (p < 0.001). “Healthy” RTEBC had a higher fibre content of 8.8g/100 g compared to 5.72g/100 g in the “less healthy” (p = 0.001), with 35% of healthy and 28% of less healthy RTEBC making a substantiated “high in fibre” claim. Micronutrient contents of all RTEBC were similar, with only iron significantly higher in “healthy” (13.3mg/100g) compared to “less healthy” (9.5mg/100g) (p = 0.02). The prevalence of substantiated micronutrient related claims was the same between “healthy” and “less healthy” RTEBC.

“Healthy” and “less healthy” RTEBC display similar micronutrient profiles, with most of the nutrition claims on both pertaining to the micronutrient and fibre content, potentially overshadowing the macronutrient contribution of the cereals. This analysis shows the ability of nutrient profiling to distinguish products by macronutrient profiles however it identifies the complexity of application with respect to micronutrient content. Further research is required to investigate the contribution of the profiled RTEBC to total nutrient intakes.
Intervention On The Knowledge Of Food Hygiene Among Child Caregivers In Ogun State Nigeria
Authors: Wahab Nimot , Odusina Olaniyi , Rachael Akano
Published: June 2020

Insufficient knowledge and improper food handling practices by child caregivers contribute greatly to food borne illnesses among children. Training and certificate programs which can translate into good practice have been found to improve the overall food handling behaviors of the caregivers. Thus the need to intervene on the poorly identified knowledge of food safety among child caregivers in Ogun state, Nigeria. One hundred and seventy (170) child caregivers between the ages 18 to 35years living in Ijebu-Ode Local Government area of Ogun State were involved in the study. These caregivers were initially identified to poor knowledge of food safety and practice in the study area. Informed consent were obtained from the Head of Child Caregivers Centres (CCC) and the caregivers themselves before the commencement of the program. One week intervention program in form of training was then organized for the concerned caregivers. A validated semi structured food safety knowledge (FSK) questionnaires were re-administered to the same food handlers after the training. Scores above 15 were categorized as adequate knowledge while those below 15 were categorized as poor knowledge. Numerical data were analysed using mean, standard deviation while t-test was used to test hypotheses. All the respondents were female (100%) and majority (43.6%) had secondary education. Respondents gained knowledge on the followings after the training: hand washing, procedure for feeding babies, cleaning of utensils and disinfection, handling of breast milk, formula feeding, diapering and general cleaning of the environment with mean scores of 18.25 ± 3.5, 20.18 ± 4.30, 16.38. ± 8.35, 25.68 ± .9.00, 15.79 ± 3.25, 30.00 ± 6.33 and 19.20 ± 4.00 respectively. knowledge of food safety among child caregivers significantly increased after the intervention exercise. Training and other forms of interventions on knowledge of food safety should be organized regularly for child caregivers
Trends in Free Sugar Content of Slovenian Pre-Packaged Foods and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Authors: Zupanic Nina , Pravst Igor
Published: June 2020

In 2015, World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines to reduce the consumption of free sugars to no more than 10% of the total daily energy intake, with additional health benefits achieved when aiming to less than 5%. For the general population, following these recommendations has proven difficult due to the massive amount of free sugar available in pre-packed products on the market. In Slovenia, a series of actions have been undertaken to reduce the availability and consumption of foods high in free sugar, including food industry responsibility pledges from soft drink and dairy industry (in 2015 and 2017, respectively).

To monitor the efficacy of those actions as well as general trends in free sugar content on the Slovenian food market, the cross-sectional study from 2015 was repeated in 2017. Data from 21,115 pre-packed food items were systematically collected from major retailer shops in Ljubljana, Slovenia. All products were photographed and their European/International Article (EAN) codes scanned to assemble an online database. The products were later assigned to one of the 49 pre-defined food categories, matching those from 2015. The categories that contributed to free sugar consumption in 2015 the most were re-analysed in 2017.

Results showed that in the category of Chocolate and sweets, which in 2015 contributed one third of all free sugar sold on Slovenian market, mean free sugar content increased by 4.7 %. Among Soft drinks, which followed shortly after, free sugar content dropped by 8 %. The decrease was also observed among Jellies (10.7 %) Yogurt products (5.7 %), Breakfast cereals (1.7 %), Biscuits (0.9 %), as well as Fruit and vegetable juices (0.9 %). On the other hand, large increase was observed among Ice creams and edible ices (31.3 %) and in the category of Jam and spreads, in which mean free sugar content increased by 20.3 %.

The data showed some favourable trends in free sugar content in many food categories that contribute an important share to an overall free sugar consumption. However, free sugar in certain food categories such as Chocolate and sweets is still on the rise, exposing the need for additional actions that would encourage industry to reformulate products with a lesser amount of free sugar. Moreover, industry self-regulation may be one of, but not the only measure to efficiently reduce free sugar consumption among general population.
The plight of the Endangered mountain gazelle Gazella gazella
Authors: Yom-Tov Yoram , Balaban Amir , Hadad Ezra , Weil Gilad , Roll Uri
Published: June 2020

The Endangered mountain gazelle Gazella gazella was once widespread throughout the Levant. Over the past 100 years its population fluctuated greatly as a result of various anthropogenic threats and disturbances. We review the dynamics of the mountain gazelle throughout this period in Israel, its last remaining stronghold, with c. 5,000 individuals. During the 20th century Israel's human population increased steadily at an annual rate of 2%; the population density is currently 430 persons per km2 and is forecast to increase further. This presents an array of threats to the mountain gazelle, including habitat change, fragmentation and isolation by roads, railways and fences, poaching, road kills and predation by increasing populations of natural predators and feral dogs, sustained partly by anthropogenic food waste. These threats may act in synergy to amplify their effects. We present an overview of how these factors acted in the past and are currently threatening the survival of this species. We also review the policy and management actions, both implemented and still required, to ensure the persistence of the mountain gazelle. In addition, we analyse connectivity in the landscape, highlighting highly fragmented gazelle populations, and suggest potential interventions. The mountain gazelle exemplifies an ungulate with both great vulnerability to human pressures and a large breeding potential. As more regions, in Israel and elsewhere, are converted to human dominated landscapes, pressures on wildlife are increasing, and lessons from the mountain gazelle could prove valuable.