bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge of iron-containing foods among pregnant women in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Adeboye Temitope Elizabeth , Okekunle Akinkunmi Paul
Published: June 2020

Abstract Introduction

Anaemia in pregnancy is a global public health problem and about half of all anaemia cases among pregnant women in developing countries are attributable to iron (Fe) deficiency. Perhaps, nutritional knowledge on the vitality of Fe-containing foods among pregnant women is lacking. In the light of the perpetually high burden of anaemia in pregnancy in Nigeria, we conducted a study to assess the knowledge of Fe-containing foods among pregnant women in Lagos, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

Four hundred and thirty two (432) pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy (across eight Primary Health Centers in a local government area) from Lagos Nigeria identified through multi-stage sampling method completed validated semi-structured questionnaires on socio-demographic characteristic and knowledge of Fe-containing foods using a validated 10-question knowledge scale (designed by nutrition experts) measured on a 2-point scale. Knowledge score (KS) was categories as poor (2 test was used to evaluate the association between age groups, education, marital status and knowledge of Fe-containing foods (at P < 0.05).

Results

Mean age of all respondents was 28.5 ± 4.6years and 43.3% were below 28years. Mean gestational age was 31.3 ± 4.1weeks, 6.5% and 1.9% reported having a primary formal education only and never married respectively. Mean knowledge score of all respondents was 6.7 ± 2.2 and 34.7% had poor KS about Fe-containing foods. While age of respondents was insignificantly associated with KS, proportion of pregnant women who had good KS was significantly higher (χ2 = 6.6, P = 0.01) among those with at least a college education (66.8%) compared to their counterpart having at a primary formal education only (42.9%). In addition, proportion of respondents with poor KS was significantly lower (χ2 = 9.9, P = 0.007) among those ever married (34.8%) compared to respondents who never married (75.0%).

Conclusion

Aside nutrition education, the vitality of adequate formal education for women prior to pregnancy and care giving roles cannot be undermined in advancing the knowledge of women on anemia and alleviating the burden anaemia in pregnancy in developing countries.
Explorative screening of potential peptide activities generated by plant-based proteins after in vitro simulation of static digestion
Authors: Dugardin Camille , Cudennec Benoît , Caron Juliette , Guérin-Deremaux Laetitia , Lefranc-Millot Catherine , Ravallec Rozenn
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The gastrointestinal digestion of food proteins can generate peptides having a wide range of biological activities and possibly involved in many physiological processes. In this study, we screened various potential bioactivities generated by plant-based protein samples as compared to one animal-based protein after in vitro simulation of gastrointestinal digestion (SGID).

Materials and methods

1 protein samples: Whey protein (WhP) as an animal protein reference (tested twice, in each set), 3 grades of pea protein (PeaP1, PeaP2 and PeaP3) and an hydrolyzed pea protein (HPeaP), pea and wheat albumins (PeaA and WA), wheat protein (WP), potato, fava bean and oat proteins (PP, FBP and OP) were submitted to SGID.

Undigested and digested protein samples were then tested in different in vitro, cellular or acellular models, including measures on : 1/energy homeostasis through their ability to promote satiety hormones (CCK and GLP-1) secretion by STC-1 cells, to inhibit DPP-IV activity and to interact with opioid receptors; 2/anti-hypertensive properties through their ability to inhibit ACE activity; 3/anti-inflammatory properties through their ability to decrease IL-8 secretion by Caco-2 cells submitted or not to LPS; 4/antioxidant properties through their ability to inhibit production of the 3 reactive oxygen species (ROS): O2.-, H2O2 and HO..

Results

The SGID of the 11 protein samples led to bioactive peptides able to stimulate CCK and GLP-1 secretion by enteroendocrine cells in a dose-dependent manner, to inhibit in vitro DPP-IV and ACE activity and to bind opioid receptors. They were also able to decrease production of ROS. Anyway, no anti-inflammatory impact through inhibition of IL-8 secretion has been highlighted in this study but no pro-inflammatory impact was detected neither; even more, some protein samples lost their pro-inflammatory potential after digestion. The best candidates answering globally to the main activities explored were PeaP1, PeaP2, HPeaP, PP and FBP with some specificities.

Discussion

These protein samples could thus be potentially valorized in the future in the context of type 2 diabetes and related cardiovascular risk prevention, or for their antioxidant properties in the context of cardiovascular diseases or ageing. Moreover, those peptides could offer natural preventive alternatives to some drugs. This will need further exploration and in vivo validation.
Yerba mate may prevent diabetes according to a crossover, randomized, controlled study in humans
Authors: Sarria Beatriz , Martinez-Lopez Sara , García-Cordero Joaquin , Gonzalez-Ramila Susana , Mateos Raquel , Bravo Laura
Published: June 2020

Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) infusions have been shown to reduce plasma glucose in animals and serum lipids in humans. However, the effects of regularly consuming yerba mate on glucose metabolism in humans has been less studied. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of regularly consuming yerba mate on diabetes related biomarkers in healthy and moderately hypercholesterolemic people.

A randomized, crossover, controlled study was carried out in normocholesterolemic (NC, n = 25) and hypercholesterolemic (HC, n = 27), non-smoker and non-vegetarian, men and women, with BMI 18–25 kg/m2. After a run-in stage, the effects of consuming three servings/day of yerba mate in boiled water during 8 weeks (mate stage) were compared with an isotonic drink during the same time (control stage). Along the study, polyphenol rich foods were restricted. At the beginning and the end of each intervention, urine and blood samples were collected. Dietary records and physical activity questionnaires were completed in each stage. Glucose was analyzed using a colorimetric kit (Sprinreact), and insulin, glucagon, C-peptide, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), resistin and visfatin were analyzed using Bio-Rad Multiplex Diabetes kits on Bio-Plex MAGPIX system. Results were statistically studied using a mix model with repeated measures and a Bonferroni test within each group (SPSS 23.0).

Nutrient intake and physical activitiy did not show changes along the study. In contrast, fasting levels of glucose, insulin, glucagon, and GLP-1 significantly decreased after the mate stage, showing glucagon a significant yerba mate*group interaction. Attending to these results, it may be concluded that sustained consumption of yerba mate may prevent type 2 diabetes. These outcomes indicate that the effects of yerba mate in pre-diabetes and T2DM subjects are worth further studying.

Funded by the Spanish State Research Agency, projects AGL2010-18269 and AGL2015-69986-R
Adipose tissue fatty acid and lipid mediator composition in obesity and response to chronic marine omega-3 fatty acid supplementation
Authors: Fisk Helena , Ayres Rob , Childs Caroline , Miles Elizabeth , Kudak Ondrej , Kopecky Jan , Calder Philip
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Obesity is an excess of adipose tissue (AT) and is linked with increased inflammation that enhances risk of type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The BIOCLAIMS study assessed the fatty acid (FA) and lipid mediator composition in normal weight and obese individuals, and their response to chronic omega-3 FA supplementation.

Materials and methods:

AT biopsies were collected pre- and post-12 week supplementation with 1.1 g EPA + 0.8 g DHA/day or corn oil. The composition of FA in the total lipid extract (TLE) of AT from 37 normal weight and 44 obese subjects was assessed by gas chromatography (GC) and the concentration of lipid mediators in AT TLE of 36 normal weight and 45 obese subjects by coupled GC-mass spectrometry.

Results:

AT of obese subjects had higher concentrations of arachidonic acid (AA), EPA, DPA, PGF2α, arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), and eicosapentaenoylethanolamine (EPEA) than that of normal weight subjects (P < 0.05). Obese subjects also had and lower concentrations of mediators derived from linoleic and α-linolenic acids, DHA-derived mediators including RvD2 and hydroxydocosahexaenoic acids (HDHAs), AA-derived mediators including lipoxin-B4, hepoxilin-A3, 11,12-dihydroxyeicosatetrienoic acid (DHET), and 6-keto-PGF1α, and the FA ethanolamine of myristic acid and glycerol ester of palmitic acid (P < 0.05 all) than normal weight subjects.

Chronic supplementation with EPA + DHA increased the concentration of EPA (P = 0.006) and EPA-derived lipid mediators including dihydroxyeicosatetrienoic acids, EPEA, and EPA-glycerol ester (P < 0.05), and increased the concentration of DHA (P < 0.001), docosahexaenoylethanolamine, and 8-, 11-, 14-, and 16-HDHA (P < 0.05). Chronic supplementation with EPA + DHA also decreased the concentration 4-, 17-, and 20-HDHA, and AA-derived lipid mediators including DHETs, AEA, and LTs in normal weight subjects (P < 0.05), and decreased 2-AG in obese subjects (P < 0.05).

Discussion:

These data indicate altered lipid signalling in AT in obesity (at baseline) suggesting dysregulation of adipose tissue expansion and inflammatory signalling, including lack of self-resolution, as well as dysregulation in the utilization of supplementary EPA + DHA for synthesis of anti-inflammatory lipid mediators. EPA + DHA are able to modulate synthesis of EPA-, DHA- and AA-derived lipid mediators but obesity may involve resistance to these effects particularly in endocannabinoid synthesis.
Serum levels of 25 (OH) vitamin D in adults with obesity sarcopenia
Authors: Nikolova Maria , Penkov Alexander
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Obesity has been linked with vitamin D deficiency in a number of cross-sectional studies, reviews and meta-analyses. To assess the correlations of plasma 25(OH) vitamin D levels with indices of body composition examined by DXA with an emphasis on lean and bone mass as well as on indices such as android/gynoid fat, appendicular lean mass (ALM) and appendicular lean mass index (ALMI), fat-mass indexes (FMI), fat-free mass indexes (FFMI) and the ALM-to-BMI index.

Materials and Methods:

62 adult subjects consented to participate – 27 men (43.5 %) and 35 women (56.5 %). Their mean age was 45.3 ± 9.5 years. Fan-beam dual-energy X-ray (DXA) body composition analysis was performed on a Lunar Prodigy Pro bone densitometer with software version 12.30. Vitamin D was measured by electro-hemi-luminescent detection as 25(OH)D Total (ECLIA, Elecsys 2010 analyzer, Roche Diagnostics). Statistical analyses were done using the SPSS 23.0 statistical package.

Results:

The serum 25(OH)D level was correlated significantly only to the whole body bone mineral content, the appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) and the ALM-to-BMI index, underlining a predominant role for lean and fat-free mass. Vitamin D showed a very weak correlation to % Body Fat and the Fat Mass Index (FMI) in men only. Moreover, the multiple regression equation including the associated parameters could explain only 7 % of the variation in the serum 25(OH)D levels.

Discussion:

Our conclusion was, that there are differences in the associations of the vitamin D levels with the different body composition indices, but these associations are generally very weak and therefore – negligible.
Development of quality index to classify meal healthiness through photos: first step for app of meal assessment using Machine Learning
Authors: Steluti Josiane , Junior Jun Okamoto , Marchioni Dirce Maria Lobo
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Currently, there are approximately 84 million smartphones in use in Brazil. The use of this technology facilitates the daily life of the individuals in the personal, social and professional scope. Therefore, we hypothesize that it can be used to assess and improve dietary intake. Thus, we intend to develop an application to assess meal quality from a photo taken by a smartphone, using artificial intelligence. For this, the machine should be trained to recognize which meal is healthy or unhealthy, and, as a first step, a meal quality index is necessary.

Objective:

This study aims to develop a meal quality index, to be applied to photos of dishes from a main meal.

Methods:

For the development of the index, it was considered the main recommendations established in the scientific literature and the “Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population”. The index includes nine components: 1- meat intake and/or meat substitute, 2- cooking method, 3- vegetables intake, 4- whole food intake, 5- food variety, 6- ultra-processed food intake, 7- fruits intake, 8- carbohydrates intake, 9- fat recipes and/or food. First, questions were elaborated and scored as 0 point (unhealthy answer) or 1 point (healthy answer). After, the meal photo was classified as “needs improvement” (< 4 points), good (> 5 e < 7 points) and very good (> 8 points). Each photo was assessed by two experts. Then, statistical analyses were performed considering Kappa (k) statistic to evaluate the agreement between the assessments by experts.

Results:

Data from 154 meal photos were assessed. We analyzed the % of agreement, k-value and significant agreement (p-value) for all index components and final classification, respectively: 1- meat intake and/or meat substitute, 64.94% and k = 0.2759 (p < 0.001); 2- cooking method, 81.82% and k = 0.5915 (p = 0.000); 3- vegetables intake, 77.27% and k = 0.5353 (p = 0.000); 4- whole food intake, 98.05% and k = -0.0087 (p = 0.545); 5- food variety, 79.22% and k = 0.5899 (p = 0.000); 6- ultra processed food intake, 76.62% and k = 0.4515 (p = 0.000); 7- fruits intake, 94.81% and k = 0.8494 (p = 0.000); 8- carbohydrates intake, 65.58% and k = 0.2960 (p = 0.000); 9- fat recipes and/or food, 73.38% and k = 0.4654 (p = 0.000); and final classification, 58.44% and k = 0.3218 (p = 0.000).

Conclusion:

We verified a moderate and significant agreement for almost all index components using meal photo.
The role of coffee derivatives in the regulation of pancreatic beta cell function in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sarnsamak Kittiwadee , Costabile Adele , Hauge-Evans Astrid
Published: June 2020

Coffee contains several components other than caffeine such as chlorogenic acids (CGAs), which are a family of polyphenols. Non-caffeinated coffee has been shown to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, but it is unclear whether this effect is primarily due to a beneficial action on glucose regulation in peripheral tissues or whether it is partly mediated via a direct, functional modulation of insulin-secreting beta cells from the pancreas. This study aims to explore the specific role of coffee compounds derived from the polyphenolic family of CGAs (caffeic acid (CA) and ferulic acid (FA)) and their metabolites (dihydroferulic acid (diFA) and ferulic acid 4-O-sulphate (FA-4-OS)) in the regulation of beta cell survival and secretory function. To investigate this role, the cells were initially exposed to conditions of glucotoxicity (30mmol/l glucose), lipotoxicity (0.5mmol/l palmitate), glucolipotoxicity (30mmol/l glucose + 0.5mmol/l palmitate) and cytokine-induced cell toxicity (25U/ml IL1b + 500U/ml TNFα) for 20 and 48 h. INS1 beta cells were subsequently treated with or without 100nmol/l of the CGA compounds for 48 h followed by 20 h exposure to glucolipotoxicity to measure cellular ATP content and 3/7 caspase activity, respectively, as an indication of cell viability and apoptosis. Additionally, insulin release was assessed by radioimmunoassay following 1 h static incubations with or without CA, FA and metabolites. Data were analysed by One-Way ANOVA using GraphPad prism software (version 8). Glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity and glucotoxicity or glucolipotoxicity combined with cytokines significantly reduced INS1 cell viability compared to control at 20 and 48 h (p < 0.001 vs 11mmol/l glucose, p < 0.05; Glucotoxicity vs 11mmol/l glucose at 20 h, n = 6), whereas cytokines alone did not significantly affect cellular ATP content. Moreover, pre-treatment for 48 h with CGAs alone or in combination did not affect INS1 beta-cell viability under basal conditions (n = 3, p > 0.2). Additional exposure to glucolipotoxicity for 20 h significantly decreased beta cell viability and survival and was not alleviated by pre- or co-treatment with CGAs (n = 3, p > 0.05). However, insulin release in response to 1 h incubation with 20 mmol/l glucose + 10μmol/l forskolin (FSK) + 100μmol/l 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) was significantly higher from cells pre-treated with CA and FA combined compared to controls (7.64 + 2.89pg insulin/5,000 cells/h vs 2.17 + 0.35pg insulin/5,000 cells/h; p < 0.01 vs. 20mmol/l glucose + 10μmol/l FSK + 100μmol/l IBMX only, n = 5). The results suggest that CGA derivatives from coffee do not directly modulate INS1 beta cell viability and apoptosis whereas the compounds may play a role in the regulation of beta cell secretory function.
Commonly used method for chylomicron isolation catches less than 0.1% of chylomicrons from whole plasma
Authors: Hani Saja Bani , Flint Pamela , Evans Gethin , Graf Brigitte
Published: June 2020

Health effects of orally ingested bioactive compounds can only occur if bioactive molecules are absorbed and transported to target tissues. Paradoxically, many foods are rich in micronutrients but intestinal absorption is often limited. Immediately after absorption, lipid soluble nutrients are packaged into chylomicrons (CM), therefore quantification of the micronutrient content in CM has been used as tool to evaluate bioavailability(1). For bioavailability studies the isolated CM fraction must not contain liver derived lipoproteins (VLDL, LDL) since only intestine derived CM carry recently absorbed lipids and lipophilic micronutrients. As isolated CM can be contaminated with liver derived lipoproteins, this study evaluated the purity of collected CM and VLDL fractions. Each CM contains one apolipoprotein B-48 (apoB-48) and each VLDL contains one apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100) on its surface(2) therefore purity of CM and VLDL fractions was evaluated via the presence/absence of apoB-100 and apoB-48.

CM and VLDL fractions were isolated as previously described(1,3)from whole plasma collected at 0, 2, 4 or 6 h after participants consumed a lipid (15.4g) and carotenoid (36mg) rich smoothie (480mL). Plasma density was adjusted to 1.1g/mL with KBr (0.14g/mL), placed in ultracentrifugation tubes (38 mL, thickwall) and overlaid with 3 solutions containing NaCl, KBr and Na-EDTA with densities of 1.020, 1.065 and 1.006g/mL.CM fraction was collected after ultracentrifugation at 25,000 rpm for 34 min in a Beckman Coulter Optima XE-90 with SW32Ti swinging bucket rotor. VLDL fraction was collected after additional 102 min at 25,000 rpm.

ELISA analysis revealed that apoB-48 and apoB-100 were present in both CM and VLDL fractions. Less than 0.1% of plasma apoB-48 (< 98pmol/L) was present in CM or VLDL fraction. Less than 0.3% (< 2,425pmol/L) and 4% (< 54,124pmol/L) of plasma apoB-100 was present in CM and VLDL fractions, respectively. Low recoveries of apoB-48 and apoB-100 in CM and VLDL fraction suggests that ultracentrifugation neither concentrated nor isolated CM or VLDL. While ourapoB-48 and apoB-100 results agree with previously reported values in plasma, CM and VLDL(3,4), no previous study evaluated apoB-48 and apoB-100 recovery from plasma.
UK internet antenatal dietary advice: a content accuracy and readability analysis
Authors: Sidnell Anne , Nestel Penelope
Published: June 2020

Nutrition in pregnancy is important for the health of the mother and infant. Suboptimal maternal nutrition can result in poor pregnancy outcomes for the infant such as low birth weight, hypovitaminosis D, and neural tube defects. Theinternet is a popular source of dietary advice in pregnancy, but there are no regulations to control the quality of information provided,and poor accuracy and readability can hinder its usefulness.

The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy and readability of online pregnancy-related diet and nutrition information regardless of geographical origin when searching from the UK. The accuracy was assessed against UK government advice and the readability using theFlesch Readability Ease (FRE) tool. Three commonly searched themes were examined;foods to avoid, foods to eat, and supplements.

130 web pages were rated for accuracy and readability. Descriptive and non-parametric tests were used and Spearman's Correlation used to explore the relationship between accuracy and readability.

Eighty-three (64%) web pages contained accurate and inaccurate advice, 23 (18%) were accurate, 21 (16%) were inaccurate, and three (2%) lacked relevant advice. The median percentage accuracy of all advice was 83 (LQ, UQ) (48,100). Eighty-seven pages (67%) scored below the recommended FRE for public web pages. The median FRE was 55 (46, 61) defined as ‘fairly difficult’. There was a weak positive correlation between accuracy and readability of web pages, rho = 0.241, p = 0.006. There was no significant difference in accuracy of web page by theme. Readability of web pages on supplements was more difficult than foods to avoid and foods to eat. Web pages from the UK (58%) were more accurate, difference of median 33 (16, 40) p < 0.001 and more readable, difference of median 9.1 (5.0, 13.1) p < 0.001 than those from outside the UK. Web pages from commercial sources (76%) were significantly less accurate than those from non-for-profit organisations, difference of median -8 (-29, 0.00) p = 0.019. 27% of web pages originated from the US. Dietary advice for pregnancy from the US differs from that in the UK.

Despite the popularity of internet searching, much pregnancy-related dietary advice online is inaccurate and difficult to comprehend. Contradictory advice may interrupt the process of making improvements to diet in pregnancy, and result in negative health outcomes for mother and infant. Healthcare professionals can support women by guiding them to accurate advice, which should only be provided by those qualified in nutrition or dietetics.
Comparative Analysis of Luteolin and Luteolin-7-O-Glucoside on anti-Atherogenesis in ApoE Knockout Mice with Hyperhomocysteinemia
Authors: Son Yeon-A. , Park Chung-Mu , Song Youngsun
Published: June 2020

Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavone that reportedly has anti-inflammatory effect. Flavones in plants are usually present in the form of glucosides, although occasionally they are found as aglycones. The bioavailability of flavones may differ when consumed as either aglycones or glucosides. Nonetheless, numerous studies focused on the biological activity of flavonoid aglycones or that in vitro. These findings are supporting reason to compare the anti-atherogenic effect of aglycone and glucoside forms of flavones in vivo. Male ApoE knockout mice (n = 28, 6-week-old) were divided randomly into 4 groups of 7 mice: negative control group, homocysteine control group, luteolin and luteolin7-O-glucoside groups with homocysteine. All animals were fed by a high-fat diet, modified by AIN-93, containing 0.5% of cholesterol and 45% of fat. Luteolin and luteolin-7-O-glycoside were given daily by gavage for 5 weeks (50 mg/kg BW, respectively). To induce hyperhomocysteinemia, homocysteine was provided as a drinking water (0.9g/L). Administration of homocysteine did not affect body weight gain, feed intake and feed efficiency ratio among groups. Homocysteine feeding sharply increased serum concentrations of homocysteine and triglyceride as well as adhesion molecules including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, which were attenuated by the administration of luteolin and luteolin-7-O-glucoside (p < 0.05). Homocysteine administration produced development of atherosclerotic process by the induction of hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 as well as aortic intercellular adhesion molecule expressions along with diminished expressions of antioxidative enzymes, such as hepatic glutathione reductase (GR), aortic GR and glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.05). Administration of both flavones down-regulated expressions of inflammatory mediators and adhesion molecules as well as up-regulated expressions of antioxidative enzymes (p < 0.05). These data were in accordance with the histopathological observations which were analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain and immunohistochemistry. In a comparison of both agents, luteolin more potently attenuated inflammation and oxidative stress than luteolin-7-O-glucoside. These results exhibit that luteolin and luteolin-7-O-glycoside ameliorated atherogenic processes through the regulation of inflammation and oxidative stress in ApoE knockout mice with hyperhomocysteinemia. This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government of MOE (No 201704340001).
Vitamin D Status in Postmenopausal Females in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharazy Shatha , Alissa Eman , Chaudhary Adeel , Lanham-New Susan , Denise Robertson M.
Published: June 2020

Vitamin D (vitD) deficiency is highly prevalent in the Middle East (including Saudi Arabia) despite the abundance of sunlight. Older individuals in particular are at high risk of being vitD deficient. VitD binding protein (DBP), which acts as a carrier of vitD and its metabolites, has been reported to influence vitD status. In our study we aimed to investigate vitD status among postmenopausal women and its relation to DBP. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the King Fahad Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Seventy six postmenopausal females (age ≥ 50 years) who were not taking vitD supplementation and who were resident in Jeddah city, were randomly recruited from internal medicine clinics at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, lifestyle history, dietary vitD intake and fasting blood samples were obtained from all study participants. Serum total 25 hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D), DBP, albumin, parathyroid hormone, calcium, phosphate, magnesium and metabolic bone parameters were analysed. VitD deficiency was defined as serum total 25(OH)D level below 30 nmol/L. The mean (± SD) serum level of total 25(OH)D was 46.9 ± 28.9 nmol/L with 36 % of the study population being vitD deficient. Although non-significant, the vitD deficient group had lower DBP and higher dietary vitD intake levels when compared with those with serum vitD > 30nmol/L. In addition, DBP was inversely correlated with vitD dietary intake (r = -0.233, P = 0.046). In conclusion, vitD deficiency is highly prevalent among postmenopausal women living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Intake of a vitD rich food seems to be associated with low DBP levels. Genetic polymorphisms in DBP will be studied in the future to find out a possible explanation for the differences in vitD status and DBP between individuals as well as the concomitant relationship between dietary vitD intake, DBP and serum 25(OH)D levels.
Socio-cultural practices, eating patterns and presence of double burden of malnutrition in mothers and their children in Grand-popo, Benin
Authors: Mbhenyane Xikombiso , Colette Azandjèmè , Tambe Betrand Ayuk , Xikombiso Mbhenyane
Published: June 2020

The world faces today a double burden of malnutrition which includes both undernutrition and overweight, especially in developing countries. Managing these two aspects of malnutrition in developing countries is a heavy burden for their failing health systems. Data from FAO show that 161 million children under five years are stunted and at the same time 3.4 million people die each year due to overweight and obesity (FAO, 2013). The aim of this study is to investigate the sociocultural influence, feeding practices and the presence of double burden of malnutrition in children and their mothers in Grand-popo's community in Benin. A cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical approach was used. A sample of 408 children between 0- 59 months and their mothers were selected. A questionnaire was developed to get information on demographic and socio-economic status of the household, breastfeeding and infant feeding practices. Food frequency questionnaire was administrated to assess dietary patterns and four focus groups with mothers were held to determine care practices and food taboos. Weight and height measurements for children and weight, height and waist circumference for their mothers were taken. Height for Age and Weight for Height z scores were determined for children and body mass index (BMI) measurements were calculated for women. For statistics analysis, IBM SPSS 25 was used. The mean age of children was 24.45 ± 14.9 months with 53.2% of girls in the sample. The mean age of mothers was 27.99 ± 6.99 years. Majority of mothers (93.1%) are married or living with the spouse. About 91.7% of household had a monthly income of $60 and spent on average $24 ± $11.2 on food. Prevalence of wasting was 9.8% and stunting 29.7%. Waist circumference mean of mothers was 79.95 ± 10.35 cm and 19.3% were classified to be at high metabolic risk. BMI assessments revealed 16.9% of mothers were overweight and 7.4% obese. All children were breastfed. Children were introduced to family foods at 5 months on average with very low consumption of animal protein and fruits, and a high consumption of vegetables and maize based meals. Food taboos particularly during pregnancy were revealed and those cultural beliefs were still followed by some mothers. The findings showed the need for more effort on cultural sensitive interventions to reduce double burden of malnutrition.
Fluid intake patterns of adults: results of six Liq.In7 national cross-sectional surveys
Authors: Guelinckx Isabelle , Morin Clémentine , Moreno Luis A. , Kavouras Stavros A. , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Martinez Homero , Gandy Joan
Published: June 2020

Dietary patterns provide valuable information for the development of public health policies. Despite increasing interest in the role of fluids in health and disease there are limited data on drinking patterns in adults. The aim of this analysis was to identify and characterize patterns of fluid intake in adults in cross-sectional surveys in China, Indonesia, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Uruguay.

Data on fluid intake volume and type amongst 8159 adults (46% male) were collected using a validated 7-day fluid specific record (Liq.In7). A cluster analysis (partitioning around k-medoids algorithm) was used to identify relatively distinct clusters of subjects based on eight fluid types (water, milk and its derivatives, hot beverages (HB), sugar sweetened beverages (SSB), 100% fruit juices, artificial/non-nutritive sweetened beverages, alcoholic beverages, other beverages). Subjects were categorized according to total daily fluid intake as low (< 1500 mL/d), medium (> 1500- < 3000mL/d), high (> 3000mL- < 4000mL/d) or very high (> 4000mL/d). The clusters were characterized according to country of residence, socio-demographics and lifestyle factors.

The eight interpretable clusters identified were: (1) low drinkers – SSB (n = 2450), (2) low drinkers – HB (n = 1589), (3) medium drinkers - water (n = 1306), (4) medium drinkers – HB and SSB (n = 892), (5) medium drinkers - SSB (n = 262), (6) high drinkers – water (n = 817), (7) high drinkers – water & SSB (n = 313) and (8) very high drinkers – water (n = 530). Country of residence was the dominant characteristic in all clusters. In cluster #1 34% of subjects were resident in Mexico (v test 21), 43% of cluster #2 lived in China (v test 21.4). 47% of cluster #4 lived in Argentina (v test 24.2) with 30% living in Uruguay (v test 19.7), (v test 8). Cluster #3 was characterized by residence in Indonesia (v test 23.6) as were clusters #6 (v test 28.5), cluster #7 (v test 8.2) and cluster #8 (v test 24.5). To a lesser extent cluster #7 (high drinkers – water & SSB) was characterised by residence in Mexico (v test 3.6). In cluster #5, 51% and 30% lived in Mexico and Argentina, respectively; with 60% of this cluster being male.

Fluid intake patterns (clusters) varied according to the different countries. This information highlights the need to tailor interventions aimed at improving fluid intake behaviour and health to the specific adult populations.
Exploring food insecurity and obesity in Dutch families: a mediation analysis
Authors: van der Velde Laura , Nyns Claire , Engel Marije , Neter Judith , van der Meer Irene , Numans Mattijs , Jong Jessica Kiefte-de
Published: June 2020

Food insecurity is related to risk of adverse health outcomes such as obesity, but the factors underlying this association are still unclear. We aimed to assess the association between food insecurity status and obesity, and to explore potential mediation by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 participants in a deprived urban area in The Hague, the Netherlands. Data on sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, food insecurity status and diet quality were collected using questionnaires. Diet quality was determined based on current national dietary guidelines. Regression analyses were performed to explore the association between food insecurity and BMI status. To assess the role of potential mediators, mediation analyses were performed to estimate the total effect, direct effect, and indirect effect and proportion of the total effect mediated of the food insecurity status-obesity association through potential mediators, crude and controlling for confounders.

The overall prevalence of food insecurity was 26 percent. Food insecurity was associated with obesity (OR = 2.49, 95%CI 1.16, 5.33), but not with overweight (OR 1.15, 95%CI 0.54, 2.45). The association between food insecurity status and obesity was partially mediated by living situation (proportion mediated: 15.3%), and general health status (19.1%) (consistent mediation). Diet quality was an inconsistent partial mediator (-17.7%). After controlling for confounders, smoking status became an inconsistent partial mediator (-15.8%), and living situation and diet quality remained partial mediators.

Food insecurity is associated with obesity and this association is partially mediated by living situation, and inconsistently partially mediated by diet quality and smoking status when controlling for confounders. Future studies are warranted to test other potential mediators that might underlie the association between food insecurity and obesity. Our findings emphasize the importance of preventing food insecurity to achieve public health goals. In addition, food insecurity and its potential consequences (i.e. an unhealthy lifestyle such as smoking, poor health, and unfavorable living situations) need to be taken into account in obesity prevention programs and policies.
The acute effect of baobab fruit on cognitive performance, cerebral blood flow and blood glucose levels.
Authors: Docherty Sarah , Haskell-Ramsay Crystal
Published: June 2020

Baobab fruit contains high levels of phenolic compounds and vitamin C. Previous work has associated these phenolic compounds and vitamin C with a range of health benefits including improvements in cerebral blood flow and cognition. In vivo, it has been demonstrated that consumption of baobab fruit can reduce the glycaemic response, which may provide a mechanism for cognitive benefits as other research has shown that variations in blood glucose levels can modulate cognitive performance. Preliminary work found that consumption of 15 g baobab fruit extract significantly improved reaction time but increased number of errors on an executive function task. Taken together it would suggest baobab fruit has the potential to improve cognitive performance that could be attributed to changes in cerebral blood flow and blood glucose levels.

The current study aimed to determine the effect of baobab fruit on cognitive performance, cerebral blood flow and blood glucose levels in a healthy young sample.

This randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, counterbalanced-crossover study assessed the effect of 10 g baobab fruit powder or sugar matched control in 24 healthy participants (17 female, 7 male, mean age = 22.91 SD = 3.37). All participants completed the cognitive assessments, a subset of 14 completed the cerebral blood flow and blood glucose assessments (mean age = 23.21, SD = 2.46). Participants completed baseline tasks before consuming a drink containing either 10 g baobab fruit powder or placebo, there was then a 45-minute absorption period before participants completed cognitive tasks again. Seven days after participants returned and completed the same procedure but consumed the opposite drink. In the 14 participant subset, cerebral blood flow was measured throughout using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) and blood glucose was measured before testing, after absorption period and upon completion of post dose

Using the MIXED procedure in SPSS, results showed that after consumption of baobab there was improved accuracy on a sustained attention task and fewer errors on the last repetition of a serial subtraction task. Baobab consumption led to increased blood glucose levels but there was no significant effect on cerebral blood flow.

Results show that, in this sample, 10 g baobab fruit can improve certain aspects of cognitive performance and increase circulating blood glucose levels, which may explain these improvements. However, there was no significant effect on any cerebral blood flow measures. Future work may wish to explore further glucoregulation activity (in particular insulin response) after baobab consumption as a potential underlying mechanism.
The Relationship Between Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Body Composition in Nutrition and Dietetic Students
Authors: Madencioğlu Servet , Yücecan Sevinç
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The determination of level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) in young adults has been investigated in countries situated near the Mediterranean region generally. The main purpose of this study were to determine differences in body composition by gender and level of adherence to the MD and to determine the relationship between body composition and level of adherence to the MD in Nutrition and Dietetics students at Near East University in Cyprus.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted on 126 Nutrition and Dietetics students, aged 18 to 32 years. MDS was calculated, and then classified into three groups: good (36–55 points), moderate (21–35 points), and poor (0–20 points). Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance (BIA). Anthropometrical measurements; height (H), body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were assessed according to standardized procedures and physical activity (PA) was assessed by using International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-short form). The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee at Near East University.

Results

According to study results 31.0% of students were found out to low adherence, while 69.0% of students had moderate adherence to the MD. There is no student had high adherence to the MD. There was no significant difference (p = 0.877) between the male and female students in terms of adherence to Mediterranean diet. The findings indicate that the eating habits of the Nutrition and Dietetics students, even those studying nutrition, are in need of improvement. The results show that 78.6% of students were normal and 21.4% of students were overweight and obese. Male students’ BW (p = 0.000), WC (p = 0.000) and HC (p = 0.015) were higher than females’, while female students’ fat mass (FM) (p = 0.000) was higher than males’. However, there is no significant difference between BW (p = 0.724), FM (p = 0.896), BMI (p = 0.691), WC (p = 0.632) and HC (p = 0.982) neither low adherence nor moderate adherence to the MD. Most of students minimal active according to IPAQ scores (41.2%) and there is no significant difference IPAQ score and adherence to the MD (p = 0.923).

Discussion

One of the healthiest diets worldwide is the traditional MD. Several studies have shown, that higher adherence to the MD is inversely related with BMI, waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHR). Little is known of how adherence to the MD is related to body composition, especially in university students. Further large-scale studies are required to clarify the relationship between adherence to the MD and body composition
Changes in consumption of milk in Irish children (5–12 years): preliminary analysis from the National Children's Food Survey II
Authors: O'Connor Aileen , Buffini Maria , Nugent Anne , Kehoe Laura , Walton Janette , Kearney John , Flynn Albert , McNulty Breige
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Milk is widely recognised as a nutrient dense food, supporting the growth and development of children. Nevertheless some milk types such as whole milk can consist of high levels of saturated fat, which is recognised for its association with chronic disease risk in adults when intakes are elevated. In Ireland, current dietary guidelines recommend that children from two years onwards should consume low fat milk. Previous research has shown low levels of compliance with this guideline. Therefore the aim of this study is to review the current consumption of milk and non-dairy milk-based alternatives among Irish children and compare these with previous intakes.

Materials and methods:

Analyses are based on data from the nationally representative National Children's Food Survey (NCFS, 2003–2004) and the National Children's Food Survey II (NCFSII 2017–2018) (www.iuna.net). The NCFS and NCFS II collected detailed food and beverage intake data from 7-d and 4-d weighed food diaries respectively, of Irish children aged 5–12 years (NCFS, n594; NCFS II, n600). Dietary intakes were analysed using WISP© in NCFS and Nutritics V5.02 (Nutritics, Dublin, Ireland) in NCFS II. Milk intakes were categorised into three food groups: ‘Whole milk’, ‘reduced fat milk’, and ‘non-dairy milk alternatives’. Mean daily intakes (MDIs) were calculated for the total population and consumers only using SPSS© V24.0.

Results:

Dietary intakes of ‘whole milk’ decreased over time from 232 ± 186g/d to current intakes of 131 ± 154g/d. In contrast, increases were noted in ‘reduced fat milks’ (26 ± 86g/d to 52 ± 110g/d) and ‘non-dairy alternatives’ (0.2 ± 4g/d to 3 ± 19g/d). A total of 68% of children were classified as consumers of whole milk (193 ± 151g/d) compared to 90% (257 ± 178g/d) previously. ‘Reduced fat milk’ consumers increased from 17% to 31% and ‘non-dairy alternatives’ consumers also increased from < 1% to 3%.

Conclusion:

Our preliminary results indicate that the number of Irish children consuming whole milk have decreased over the last number of years. In contrast consumers of ‘reduced fat milks’ have significantly increased, indicating potential improvement to healthy eating guidelines adherence. Further analysis to examine current intakes and sources of saturated fat is warranted to establish additional changes in dietary patterns and compliance with recommendations within this age group.
Age, sex & BMI are associated with different eating behaviour styles in Irish teens
Authors: Daly Aisling , O'Sullivan Elizabeth , McNulty Breige , Walton Janette , Kearney John
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the types of eating behaviours most common among Irish teenagers and to explore their association with age, sex and Body Mass Index (BMI). Eating behaviour data from the National Teenage Food Consumption Survey (NTFS1 2005/06 n = 441, m/f 224/217) were analysed. The Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (DEBQ) contains 33 items, which make up 3 scales: Restraint (DEBQ-Res, 10 items), Emotional (DEBQ-Em, 13 items), External (DEBQ-Ex, 10 items). All items are answered on a 5 point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, non-parametric Wilcoxin-Mann-Whitney U tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests, one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey analysis, and Spearman correlations were run to test associations between age, sex and BMI variables and the 3 DEBQ scales. Data were analysed for the full group and stratified by sex and age groups (13–14/15–17 years). BMI categories were determined using age and sex-specific IOTF cut-offs. Mean(SD) scores among the whole group were DEBQ-Ex = 2.83(0.72), DEBQ-Res = 1.79(0.84), DEBQ-Em = 1.84(0.79). Females scored higher than males on all 3 scales; DEBQ-Res P < 0.001, DEBQ-Em P < 0.001, DEBQ-Ex P = 0.037. Older teens scored significantly higher than younger teens on DEBQ-Em (P < 0.001) and DEBQ-Ex (P = 0.005). Scores were higher for older males compared with younger males on DEBQ-Em (P = 0.009) and DEBQ-Ex (P = 0.017), and for older females compared with younger females on DEBQ-Res (P = 0.031) and DEBQ-Em (P = 0.001). BMI was positively correlated with DEBQ-Res for both males (r = 0.18, P = 0.007) and females (r = 0.337, P < 0.001) and with DEBQ-Em for females (r = 0.153 P = 0.026). When comparing BMI categories, teens classified as overweight (P < 0.001) and obese (P = 0.005) scored higher on DEBQ-Res than normal-weight teens. Similar associations were observed when the sample was split by sex and by age group. Overall, Irish teens’ eating behaviours are mostly influenced by external factors, such as the sight or smell of food, rather than by restrained eating or emotional cues for eating. However, not all teens respond to the same influences. Females respond more than males to emotional cues for eating. Older teens have higher scores than younger teens on all scales. BMI is mostly associated with restrained eating, which is consistent with other literature suggesting that heavier teens are more aware of what they are eating and make focussed food choices to prevent weight gain. When targeting food choice messages to teens, a “one-size-fits-all” model may not be appropriate. Multiple factors, including age, sex and BMI differences, should be considered in order to encourage a positive change in eating behaviours.