bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wellness Policy and the Head Start Environment: The Moderating Role of Head Start Teachers in the Children's Healthy Living Program in Hawai'i
Authors: Esquivel Monica , Li Fenfang , Novotny Rachel
Published: June 2021

School wellness policy intervention for childhood obesity prevention has shown mixed results in preschool environments, with teachers considered a contributing factor to the variation. This study's objective was to examine whether a wellness policy intervention influenced the physical activity (PA) and nutrition environment in preschool classrooms and whether the effect depends on teachers' skills, knowledge and behaviors related to nutrition and PA. The wellness policy intervention was conducted in 23 Head Start classes, of which 11 were assigned to the intervention and 12 served as control. Classroom environments were assessed by the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observations (EPAO). Monthly surveys were mailed to teachers, asking if they had experienced any improvements in their nutrition and PA skills or knowledge, and other health behaviors and indicators. Health behaviors and indicators assessed included: increased water consumption; decreased sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption; increased level of PA; and improved weight control, blood pressure control, or stress management. Among classes where teachers' improvements in monthly surveys were greater than or equal to the mean, average EPAO‐total scores in the intervention group were 2.2 points higher than the control group (p=0.01) and mean EPAO‐PA scores were 3.5 points higher than the control group (p=0.003). In contrast, in classes where teachers had lower than the mean improvements, no significant difference was observed in either the total or PA EPAO mean scores between the two intervention groups. Wellness activities targeted at teachers in the HS environment may increase the effectiveness of wellness policy initiatives.
Social and Behavioral Change Interventions Delivered at Scale Have Large Impacts on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Practices in Bangladesh
Authors: Menon P , Saha K , Kennedy A , Khaled A , Tyagi T , Sanghvi T , Afsana K , Haque R , Frongillo E , Ruel M , Rawat R
Published: June 2021

Alive & Thrive (A&T) in Bangladesh aims to improve IYCF through 1) a national mass media (MM) campaign, 2) social mobilization and 3) interpersonal communication delivered by health workers from BRAC, and implemented at scale in 50 sub‐districts. A cluster‐randomized evaluation was conducted in 20 sub‐districts, 10 receiving all 3 interventions (A&T‐3) and 10 with MM only (A&T‐MM). Impact indicators were IYCF practices in children <24 mo and attained linear growth in children 24‐47 mo. Cross‐sectional surveys [N~2200/ group] at baseline (2010) & endline (2014) were used to derive cluster‐adjusted double‐difference estimates (DDE). Large, significant impacts were seen on 7 WHO IYCF indicators: early breastfeeding (BF) initiation (63.5 → 94.5 in A&T‐3, p<0.001 for DDE), exclusive BF (48.5 → 86.0 in A&T‐3, p<0.001), timely introduction of complementary feeding (45.9 → 97.5 in A&T‐3, p<0.05), minimum dietary diversity (32.1 → 61.7 in A&T‐3, p<0.01), minimum meal frequency (42.1 → 72.3 in A&T‐3, p<0.001), minimum acceptable diet (16.0 → 49.3 in A&T‐3, p<0.001), and intake of iron‐rich foods (39.5→ 78.6 in A&T‐3, p<0.001). Continued BF, already high in 2010, remained as high in both groups in 2014 (DDE n.s.). Stunting decreased in both A&T‐3 and A&T‐MM over this period (DDE n.s.). The large scale A&T‐3 model led to substantial comparative increases in IYCF practices, providing evidence for investments in such models to improve IYCF at scale.

Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, via Alive & Thrive, managed by FHI360.
Validation of ALIVE!© Block Food Frequency Questionnaire for Use with College Students
Authors: Ross Jamisha , Schweitzer Amy , Klein Catherine , Mackey Eleanor , Lei David
Published: June 2021

For many young adults, college is a time of poor dietary habits such as consuming foods high in fat, sugar and total energy and low in fiber. These habits can contribute to long‐term consequences. In order to analyze the dietary habits of college students there needs to be a validated assessment tool. We tailored an ALIVE!© Block food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to this population. We recruited ninety‐four University of Maryland, College Park students (ages 18‐20, 68% female, 46% white/Caucasian, 23% Asian/Pacific Islander, 20% African American, 4% Hispanic, 3 % other). Students kept a food record for two weekdays and one weekend day. Food records were analyzed for nutrient content using Diet Analysis Plus 10th edition software. Trends in consumption of energy, carbohydrates, fiber, saturated fat, trans fat, and fruit and vegetable equivalents were reported. These data were then compared to FFQ data using Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (ρc). The FFQ tends to overestimate calories and saturated fat (ρc = 0.20 and 0.13, respectively) and underestimate trans fat, fruit and vegetables (ρc =0.06, 0.50 and 0.25 respectively). The FFQ is reliable at estimating fiber intake (ρc = 0.31). Overall, the ALIVE!© FFQ has been deemed unreliable in our target population. In future analysis, we will use three‐day food logs to quantify the dietary habits of college students. This Project was aided by University of Maryland College Park, Designated Research Initiative Fund and by Award Number UL1RR031988/UL1TR000075 from the National Institute of Health National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences.
Food Insecurity of Children Increases Shame of Others Knowing They Are without Food
Authors: Bernal Jennifer , Frongillo Edward , Jaffe Klaus
Published: June 2021

The shame that children experience associated with food insecurity, and actions that they take to alleviate it, is not known. We aimed to examine the associations among food insecurity in children, their management strategies to alleviate it, and the shame arising when their lack of food is known by others. We conducted a cross‐sectional study, with a non‐probabilistic sample of 404 children from a poor area in Caracas, Venezuela. We assessed food insecurity in children using two instruments developed through a naturalistic approach that had 10 items for food insecurity and 11 items for management strategies. We asked children if they felt shame when they are out of food. Food insecurity in children was associated with shame of others knowing they were out of food (γ=0.37, p<0.01). Nine out of 11 management strategies were significantly associated (p<0.05) with feeling of shame of being out of food. Girls from 13‐17 years were most likely to report shame when they also reported lack of food, had the refrigerator empty, wanted to eat more but could not, or had to eat the same food every day (p<0.01). Understanding the interrelations between shame and food insecurity is important to understand the detrimental effects of food insecurity on children and to improve delivery of socially acceptable programs and policies aimed at increases access to food for children in vulnerable populations.
Food Insecure Individuals Are More Prone to Health Problems
Authors: Miller Meghan , Dallmann Diana , Melgar‐Quiñonez Hugo
Published: June 2021

Because of its intimate relationship with an insufficient dietary intake of nutrients essential for a healthy and active life, food insecurity (FI) is associated with a wide range of health issues. In addition, FI also affects psychological well‐being. This study investigated differences in self‐reported health between food secure (fs) and food insecure(fi) individuals in 42 countries through data from the 2014 Gallup World Poll (GWP) with the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). One question regarding the presence of health problems was selected from the GWP questionnaire to assess respondents' health status. Results showed a prevalence of 61% FI, while 27.2% of interviewees reported health problems that prevented them from engaging in normal activities for a person of their age. In a multivariate logistic model, when compared to fs individuals, those classified as fi showed significantly higher odds (OR) of reporting that they had health problems (OR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.58, 1.87). The same trend was observed for women when compared to men (OR=1.31, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.39), for single individuals when compared to those in a couple (OR=1.17, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.25), for those unable to afford adequate shelter throughout the year (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.45, 1.67) and for those unsatisfied with the healthcare service (OR=1.09, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.17). The statistical model incorporated all variables mentioned above in addition to income, education, household size, age, country and area of residence. These results reveal increased vulnerability to health problems among specific groups and provide evidence of the importance of FS for physical well‐being.
Factors related to low and high monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit duration among a low‐income population in Omaha, Nebraska
Authors: Calloway Eric , Fricke Hollyanne , Pinard Courtney , Smith Teresa , Yaroch Amy
Published: June 2021

SNAP participants may (or may not) experience the “food stamp cycle,” in which benefits are exhausted early in the month resulting in food shortages towards the end of the month.

This study examined associations between the duration of time before monthly SNAP benefits are exhausted and dietary, hunger, and other factors among low‐income heads‐of‐households.

Participants were recruited at libraries and food pantries and completed a self‐administered survey onsite.

SNAP participants (n=175) reported monthly benefits lasting 1 to 2 weeks (low monthly benefit duration (LMD), n=62) or 3 or more weeks (high monthly benefit duration (HMD), n=113). Groups did not differ by income, family size, education, race, sex, or age. The LMD group consumed carrots (P=0.04) less frequently (nearly significantly less total fruits (p=0.053)), experienced more adverse hunger symptoms (P=0.02), reduced/skipped meals more often (P=0.01), and had lower food security (P=0.01) compared to the HMD group. Participants in the HMD group (vs. the LMD group) reported better general health (P=0.01) and family functioning (i.e., CHAOS index) (P=0.01).

Family size and income were not significantly different between groups, implying that monthly monetary allotments are of similar amounts. Although this data were cross‐sectional, results suggest monthly SNAP benefit duration is associated with adverse diet and hunger related outcomes. Future studies should explore family functioning as a barrier to improved monthly benefit duration, and policymakers should consider poor health status, which may drain family resources, as necessary criteria to include in determining SNAP benefit allotment amounts.
Changes of Food Insecurity in Vietnamese Female Marriage Immigrants in South Korea: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES)
Authors: Yang Hyesu , Kim Hyesook , Chung Hyewon , Chang Namsoo
Published: June 2021

Food insecurity due to economic problems, difficulty in adjusting to Korean food as well as limited access to Vietnamese foods may be the major reasons for decrease in dietary intake after the arrival of Vietnamese immigrants in Korea. This study was conducted to compare changes in food insecurity between baseline(2010) and follow‐up(2013) in 145 Vietnamese female(mean age: 24.5 years) marriage immigrants in Korea. Four food insecurity questions focusing on economic reasons and lack of adjustment to unfamiliar Korean foods were asked through face to face interviews. During the baseline survey, about 28.7% of subjects skipped meals, because they lacked enough money for food during the previous year, however it decreased to 4.9% at follow‐up. About 32.0% and 27.1% of them at baseline felt hungry or skipped meals, because there was no food that they wanted to eat or no food for their appetite at home in the last year. However, it decreased to 9.9% and 4.2% at follow‐up, respectively. Our results indicate a need for nutritional support programs for immigrant Vietnamese females in Korea.

[This work was supported by the Research Program funded by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(2010‐E71002‐00, 2013‐E71002‐00) and the BK 21 Plus.)
Relationship of household food insecurity and anemia in children receiving the benefit from food assistance programs in San Luis Potosi, Mexico
Authors: Shamah Levy Teresa , Villalpando Hernández Salvador , Cuevas Nasu Lucia , Gaona Pineda Elsa Berenice , Mendez Gómez‐ Humaran Ignacio , Rivera Dommarco Juan
Published: June 2021

Objective

To investigate the association of household food insecurity in children with anemia beneficiaries of food assistance programs.

Methods: Within the Study of Impact evaluation of Food assistance Programs (FAP) in San Luis Potosi, México we obtained information from 1366 households with children (<5y) beneficiaries of one out of the three FAP: Prospera (before Oportunidades); School Breakfast Program (DIF); Rescue to Malnutrition with amaranth; and Control group. We used the Latin American and Caribbean Household Food Security measurement scale (ELCSA). Anemia in children was determined with the cut‐off values <110 g/L.

The effect of FAP and the food insecurity (FI) level on the prevalence of anemia in children, a logistic regression model was constructed. Stunting, socioeconomic level, age, and sex were included in the model as corrective variables.

Results: The prevalence of anemia increased when children were stunted (p=0.001) A higher socioeconomic index and major age were protective for the probability of anemia. Significant interactions were observed between Prospera and mild food insecurity level (p=0.095) and between anemia and DIF and mild insecurity (p=0.009) in children.

Conclusions

29.3% of the children from households with FI suffered anemia and the probability of being anemic increased if the children were stunted. Households with anemic children that did not receive assistance were more food secure than those that did.

Supported by FOMIX, SLP‐COPOCYT.

Project: FMSLP‐213‐CO2‐208475
Food Assistance Program Participation and Health Care Utilization in Low‐income Homebound Older Georgians
Authors: Bhargava Vibha , Lee Jung Sun
Published: June 2021

Older adults receiving food assistance may have varying health care needs and resource levels; however very little is known about their health care utilization patterns. This study examined the relationship of food assistance program participation with health care utilization in homebound older Medicare beneficiaries in Georgia in need of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and home delivered meals program (HDM) using the self‐administered survey and Medicare claims data (n=1,270, mean age 79.4, 69.9% female, 34.4 %black). Health care utilization during 2009 (i.e., inpatient, outpatient, physician, and home health visits) was compared across four levels of food assistance program participation (i.e., both SNAP and HDM, SNAP only, HDM only, and nonparticipation) in the study sample using negative binomial regression while controlling for potential confounders. About 22% received both SNAP and HDM, and 24.4% and 17.6% received either SNAP or HDM, respectively. Those receiving any food assistance were more likely to be younger, black, less educated, Medicare dual eligible, living in rural areas and alone, and food insecure. Those receiving both programs showed poorest socioeconomic and health characteristics and used higher outpatient and physician services than nonparticipants. These findings suggest higher burden of both healthcare and food insecurity experienced by vulnerable homebound older adults.
Nutritional Supplement Use of an Urban African American and White Population
Authors: Stave Emily , Fanelli Kuczmarski Marie , Beydoun May , Zonderman Alan , Evans Michele
Published: June 2021

Of the 2159 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study participants who completed the Wave 3 nutritional supplement questionnaire, 1084 reported using nutritional supplements. The HANDLS study, a prospective cohort study, is conducted by the National Institute on Aging and began in 2004. Wave 3 began in 2009 and was completed in 2013. Participants most likely to use supplements were female, married, and had literacy of college level or higher. The mean age of supplement users was 54.6 years compared to non‐users who were 51.7 years. Comparison of supplement users to nonusers revealed that users had significantly higher serum albumin, folate and vitamin B‐12 levels and lower serum ferritin levels. No significant differences between supplement users and nonusers were found for hemoglobin, triglycerides, cholesterol – total, HDL, and ratio of HDL/cholesterol, iron, and magnesium. The nutrients provided by supplements were examined by age group and race. Among users who were between 30 and 50 years, White adults had significantly higher intakes of omega 3 fatty acids and riboflavin, while consuming less iron compared to African American adults. Among users aged 51 years and older, White adults obtained significantly more calcium, magnesium, niacin, and riboflavin than their African American counterparts. The use of supplements will improve the micronutrient quality of the diets consumed by this entire population of urban African American and White adults.
Oleuropein inhibits IL‐4‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in airway epithelial cells
Authors: Gong Ju‐Hyun , Kang Young‐Hee
Published: June 2021

Allergic asthma is characterized by airway inflammation in response to antigen exposure, resulting in airway remodeling and lung dysfunction. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) may play a role in airway remodeling through the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype in the airway epithelium.We elucidated inhibitory effects of oleuropein, a type of phenolic compound with anti‐inflammatory activity, on interleukin (IL)‐4 or eotaxin‐induced airway remodeling in human bronchial airway epithelial BEAS‐2B cells.IL‐4 markedly induced epithelial eotaxin‐1 and chemokine receptor CCR3 expression. Nontoxic oleuropein at 蠄20 μM significantly attenuated the IL‐4‐elevated expression of eotaxin‐1 and CCR3 in BEAS‐2B cells for 72 h. Additionally, 1‐20 μM oleuropein dose‐dependently inhibited the IL‐4 and eotaxin‐induced production of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA). These results demonstrate that dietary oleuropein suppressed IL‐4 and eotaxin‐1 promoted bronchial epithelial EMT leading to airway remodeling with concurrent loss of E‐cadherin and induction of α‐SMA. Therefore, oleuropein may be a potential therapeutic agent targeting asthmatic airway constriction.
Comparison of Selected Micronutrient Intakes Between Vegans and Omnivores Using Dietary Reference Intakes
Authors: Ezmirly Mawaddah , Phelps Josh , Crook Tina , Hakkak Reza
Published: June 2021

Using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009‐2010 data for 32 participants 25‐60 years of age, the aim of this study was to compare vitamin (B12, D) and mineral (calcium, iron, zinc) intakes of vegans (n=16) to intakes of omnivores (n=16), as well as to Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs), and vegetarian‐specific recommendations. The vegan sample was defined using NHANES dietary data and randomly matched to a sample of omnivores. Results showed vegans had significantly lower mean intakes of B12 (p=.020), D (p=.012), and zinc (p=.032) compared to omnivores. Neither groups' mean intake of B12 was lower than the Recommend Dietary Allowance (RDA). Both groups had mean D intakes significantly (p<.001) lower than the RDA. Neither groups' mean intake of zinc differed significantly from the RDA; however, female vegans had a mean zinc intake significantly (p<.001) lower than the vegetarian‐specific recommendation. Mean calcium intakes for females (age<51 years) in both groups were significantly (vegan, p=.006; omnivore, p=.045) lower than the RDA. Female vegans (age 蠅51 years) had a mean calcium intake significantly (p=.019) lower than the RDA. While females (age<51 years) in both groups had mean iron intakes lower than the RDA, only omnivores had a significantly (p=.024) lower mean intake. Female (age<51 years) vegans had a significantly (p=.001) lower mean intake than the vegetarian‐specific recommendation for iron. Results suggest females may benefit from dietary efforts to increase consumption of calcium and iron, while female vegans may benefit from increased dietary consumption of zinc. Vitamin D consumption should be encouraged across all groups.
Trends in Yogurt Consumption, US Adults, 1999‐2012
Authors: Nielsen Samara Joy , Ogden Cynthia
Published: June 2021

Background

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 state that Americans should increase their intake of low fat and non‐fat milk and milk products including yogurt.

Objective

This analysis examines trends in the percentage of US adults who consumed yogurt on a given day from 1999‐2000 through 2011‐2012. Trends were analyzed by sex, race, income, and eating occasion.

Design

In the 1999‐2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, cross‐sectional nationally representative samples of the US population, yogurt consumption was collected during a single 24 hour dietary recall interview from 33,932 adults 20 years and older.

Results

In 1999‐2000, 4.7% ±1.4% (±SE) of adults consumed yogurt on a given day, which increased to 9.3% ±0.7% in 2011‐2012. There were increases in all race/ethnic groups. Among non‐Hispanic whites, there was an increase from 5.3%±1.0% to 10.4%±1.0%; among non‐Hispanic blacks there was an increase from 2.6%±0.9% to 3.9%±0.5% and among Mexican‐Americans there was an increase from 1.9%±0.6% to 6.2%±1.6%. Similarly, increases occurred in the highest income group (5.7%±0.4% in 1999‐2000 to 12.8%±1.2% in 2011‐2012) and the lowest income group (2.6%±0.8% to 5.2%±0.8%). Increases occurred at all eating occasions with the largest increase in the percentage of adults consuming yogurt occurring at breakfast; 1.0%±0.1 in 1999‐2000 to 3.9%±0.4 in 2011‐2012.

Conclusions

The percentage of US adults consuming yogurt on a given day increased between 1999 and 2012. More adults consumed yogurt at breakfast in 2012 than in 1999.
The Effects of Vitamin E on Hematopoietic Parameters in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Pourafshar Shirin , Johnson Sarah , Arjmandi Bahram
Published: June 2021

Vitamin E is amongst the most widely used dietary supplements due to its anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory properties and subsequent health benefits. However, its effects on hematopoietic parameters have not been well‐investigated. Ovarian hormone deficiency caused by menopause leads to changes in hematopoietic factors, in part, due to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, vitamin E may be able to ameliorate these changes in hematopoietic‐originated blood cells. For this purpose, we used an ovariectomized (Ovx) rat model to investigate the effects of four doses of vitamin E (75, 300, 525, 750 mg/kg diet) on hematopoietic factors.A total of seventy‐five 12‐month‐old female Sprague‐Dawley rats were either sham‐operated (Sham; 1 group; n = 12) or ovariectomized (Ovx; 4 groups; n = 12) and were given their respective treatments for one‐hundred days. All doses of vitamin E significantly (P < 0.001) increased mean platelet volume in Ovx rats when compared to Sham (mean values of 6.02 ± 0.14 and 6.46 ± 0.17 in Sham and Ovx, respectively). Ovx resulted in a significant (P < 0.025) increase in lymphocytes. Vitamin E at 300 mg/kg diet or higher resulted in a significant (P < 0.048) decrease in neutrophils (mean value of 13.31 ± 3.20 at 300 mg/kg vitamin E). Furthermore, supplementation with 300 and 525 mg/kg diet vitamin E decreased basophils significantly (P < 0.025). The findings of the present study suggest that vitamin E may have positive effects on hematopoietic parameters after menopause.
Inadequate CHO intake is associated with abdominal fatness‐related abnormalities in free‐living adults
Authors: Bernardino Caroline , Manda Rodrigo , Michelin Edilaine , Teixeira Okesley , McLellan Katia , Burini Roberto
Published: June 2021

The modern dietary habits characterized by high refined carbohydrate (CHO), sugars, saturated fat and low dietary fiber intake when associated with sedentary behavior lead to metabolic abnormalities related to Metabolic Syndrome (MS). This study aimed to investigate variables associated with the CHO consumption in free‐living subjects. In a cross‐sectional study, 600 individuals (79.3% female), 54.6±10.8 years old, were clinically assessed for admission into a lifestyle modification program(“Move for Health”) from 2007 to 2014. The dietary habits were evaluated by 24‐hour recall and the healthy eating index (HEI) score were calculated. It was assessed the intake of CHO, fiber, cereal and sugar. Anthropometric measurements and were evaluated including waist circumference (WC), weight, and body mass index (IMC). Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂max), MS (ATP III‐NCEP) and its components, and insulin resistance index (HOMA‐IR) were also analyzed. ANOVA one way, Tukey's post hoc (p<0.05). Lower CHO intake (p25) was significantly associated with a higher body weight (85,7±22,8), lower dietary fiber intake (11.6±7.5gr) and a poor quality diet (HEI=69.7±17.7 points) as well as to higher WC (102.7±15.8 cm), higher HOMA‐IR (3.5±3.13) and plasma triglycerides (168.2±1.0 mg/dL) and lower VO₂ (28.0±5.75ml/kg/min). Thus, lower CHO intake as part of a poor quality diet might influence abdominal adiposity with its consequences: insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia and reduced aerobic capacity.
Do Women Smokers Have Nutritional State Worse than no Smoking Women
Authors: Papini Silvia , Fidelix Melaine , Minamoto Suzana , Paiva Sergio
Published: June 2021

Clinical and experimental studies show that smoking has harmful effects on the musculoskeletal system, and smoking cessation can reverse this condition.

Objective

to evaluate if there is a nutritional depletion in smokers and ex‐smokers women when compared to nonsmoking women.

Methods

they were evaluated 55 women, of whom 19 had never smoked (NS), 18 were active smokers (S) and 18 were ex‐smokers (Ex‐S). The evaluation was performed by means of Questionnaire of Identification and Assessment of Body Composition (anthropometry and absorptiometry of dual X‐ray of energy (DEXA)). The comparison between the three groups was performed by ANOVA, followed by Tukey's test or the Kruskal‐Wallis test followed by Dunn's test, according to the distribution of variables, adopting p <0.05 significance level.

Results

The average age of women smokers and ex‐smokers was greater than 50 years (S = 52.8±7b years, Ex‐S = 51.7± 8b years and NS = 44.4±11a, p = 0.011). All groups were classified as overweight, which differs from the literature that cites the smokers as underweight or normal weight. The average waist circumference of all groups showed values ​​above the cutoff point (80 cm). The waist‐hip ratio showed an average limit on the cutoff value considered for women (0.85). No differences were found between anthropometric parameters. The fat mass index of all groups showed values ​​above the 95 percentile, which shows a high fat mass. The lean body mass index showed values ​​between the 5 and 25 percentile, being below average, considering for both, ages ranging from 35‐54 years. No differences were found between the variables of DEXA.

Conclusion

smokers and ex‐smokers women present a similar weight and body composition compared to women who have never smoked.
Dietary Intake among Home‐Delivered Meal Recipients before and after Receiving Meals
Authors: Moore Britta , Marceaux Seanna , Friedman B J , Crixell Sylvia
Published: June 2021

The number of Americans over age 65 is growing rapidly, increasing pressure for social services such as home‐delivered meal programs (HDM) to help elderly age in place. HDM programs are struggling to meet demands since funding has declined despite evidence that a high proportion of homebound elders are at nutritional risk. It is important to assess the efficacy of HDM in improving diet. The goal of this research was to determine the impact of HDM on nutrient intake among a sample of elderly in central Texas.

Food intake in older adults was collected before and 3 months after receiving HDM meals in 2 separate samples, in 2011 (N=38), and in 2013 (N=28). In 2011, nutrient intake was assessed using the Block Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire and in 2013, with the web‐based Diet History Questionnaire II. Data were combined for this analysis. Depending on the normality of the data, paired t‐tests or Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests were conducted to compare pre and post intake of 31 dietary variables. In each sample and in the combined sample, the number of subjects who met dietary recommendations for macronutrient distributions, fiber, magnesium, riboflavin, and vitamins E and D remained the same or increased after receiving HDM, while the number of subjects who met phosphorus recommendations declined after receiving meals. Additionally, intakes of 14 nutrients were significantly greater or showed a trend toward increasing in the 2013 sample. However, in each sample and the combined sample, only % kcal from protein, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 recommendations were met by more than 75% of clients at follow‐up. While these results support the positive contribution of HDMs on nutrient intake, they also highlight the need for nutrition support for homebound elderly.
Food Insecurity, Medication Non‐adherence, and Inpatient Hospital Readmissions in Low‐income Older Medicare Beneficiaries in Need of Food Assistance
Authors: Sattler Elisabeth , Lee Jung Sun , Young Henry
Published: June 2021

The prevention of hospital readmissions is a major focus of healthcare quality improvement. This study examined the relationships among food insecurity, medication non‐adherence, and hospital readmissions in a sample of low‐income older Medicare beneficiaries in need of food assistance in Georgia with 1+ hospital admission in 2008 (n=315, mean age 75.1 + 8.1 years, 27.0% Black, 69.5% female). Self‐reported data on food insecurity and medication non‐adherence, and Medicare inpatient claims data were used. About 52.1% and 47.3% reported food insecurity and medication non‐adherence, respectively, while 51.4% experienced 1+ readmission. Over 90% were homebound. Food insecure individuals with/without medication non‐adherence were more likely younger, poorer, took more medications, and relied more heavily on subsidy support. Those with 1+ readmission had higher morbidity, chronic diseases, and depression. In multivariate analyses, multimorbidity (OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.2‐1.5) and depression (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.4‐4.8) were significantly associated with hospital readmissions. More research is warranted to understand potential causes of hospital readmissions.
Association Between Obstetric Provider's Advice and Gestational Weight Gain in a Diverse Sample of Women
Authors: Lopez‐Cepero Andrea , Leung K , Corvera S , Moore T , Rosal MC
Published: June 2021

Background

Optimal gestational weight gain (GWG) reduces the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Thus, the Institute of Medicine provides recommendations for GWG. However, the frequency in which obstetric providers deliver GWG advice to their patients is unclear. Moreover, little is known about the degree to which women follow such advice.

Objective

To examine the frequency of subjects' self‐reported GWG advice received from providers and self‐reported adherence to such advice.

Methods: Healthy pregnant women (N=94) enrolled in care <17 weeks gestation completed assessments that included survey (demographics, questions on receipt of, agreement with and adherence to provider GWG advice) and anthropometric measures. GWG data were abstracted from medical records. Analyses included chi‐square and t‐tests, and binary and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results: The cohort age was 28 (+5.1) years; 67% White, 28% Hispanic, 51% overweight pre‐pregnancy, and 64% with above‐guideline GWG. 71% reported receiving GWG advice from their obstetric providers. Controlling for gestational age and pre‐pregnancy BMI, receiving GWG advice was associated with increased risk of excessive weight gain (OR=3.216, CI: 1.098, 9.419). However, those that reported following the advice, gained on average 13.4 pounds less than those that did not and had lower odds of excessive weight gain (OR=0.144, CI: 0.033, 0.624).

Conclusion

Recollection of provider GWG advice is less than optimal. Advice was associated with greater GWG. Findings show favorable outcomes among women who reported following their providers' advice. Strategies that promote obstetric providers' delivery of GWG advice and pregnant women's adherence to the GWG advice received are needed.
The Impact of Weight Loss on Quality of Life in Overweight Women with Irregular Menses
Authors: Lin Annie , Jarrett Brittany , Lujan Marla
Published: June 2021

Despite evidence that weight loss improves reproductive outcomes and quality of life (QoL), little is known about the factors that influence QoL among overweight women with irregular menses during weight loss intervention. Thus, we examined the 1) validity of a modified QoL instrument related to oligoamenorrhea and 2) impact of weight loss on QoL among overweight women with irregular menses.

Participants (N=17) completed a subset of questions based on a validated QoL questionnaire (PCOSQ) before and after a 3 month hypocaloric diet. Higher scores indicated lower or worse QoL. Simple linear regression was used to examine associations between directly observed clinical characteristics and QoL scores. Changes in scores on the 5 QoL domains (emotion, hirsutism, infertility, weight, menstrual problems) were assessed by paired t‐tests or Wilcoxon Signed‐Rank tests.

The dietary intervention led to an average weight loss of ‐8.3 kg (P<0.0001). At baseline, clinical evidence of hirsutism was associated with QoL hirsutism domain (r = 0.71, P<0.002), and measured weight was associated with QoL weight domain (r = 0.48, P = 0.05), supporting the instrument as a valid measure of QoL. At post‐intervention, all QoL scores decreased from baseline (P<0.05), thus indicating better QoL after weight loss. Changes in scores were driven by changes in questions about facial hirsutism, fatigue, menstrual cramps, weight maintenance and infertility‐related unhappiness.

The modified PCOSQ was an appropriate instrument to measure QoL in this sample. Weight loss was associated with improved QoL related to reproductive dysfunction among overweight women with irregular menses. Further analyses will be performed to determine potential interactions between weight loss, reproductive outcomes and QoL.
Maternal Diet Quality and Obesity in Pregnancy Jointly Influence Neonatal Adiposity
Authors: Shapiro Allison , Kaar Jill , Crume Tessa , Starling Anne , Ringham Brandy , Glueck Deborah , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Dabelea Dana
Published: June 2021

Objective

A poor maternal diet in pregnancy may influence fetal growth and may compound the effect of maternal obesity on neonatal adiposity. In a cohort of 978 mother‐offspring pairs we investigated maternal diet quality and it's interaction with maternal pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on neonatal adiposity (percent fat mass, %FM).

Methods

Diet in pregnancy was assessed via repeated Automated Self‐administered 24‐hour dietary recalls, yielding Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI) scores (0‐100) for each mother. HEI score was categorized into tertiles (<57, 57‐65, >66), with low scores representing poor diet quality. Pre‐pregnancy BMI was obtained from medical records or self‐report. Neonatal %FM was assessed near birth using air displacement plethysmography. Using a multivariable model with neonatal %FM as the outcome, categorized HEI and BMI as predictors, and multiple covariates, we used F tests to examine components of the interaction between HEI and BMI.

Results

Total HEI score ranged from 38.0 to 88.7 (mean: 62.4, SD: 10.3). Means for %FM by BMI and HEI trended upward with worsening tertiles of HEI score and increasing categories of BMI (Figure 1). There was an interaction between the lowest HEI tertile and obese BMI (β =1.25, 95% CI: 0.01‐2.50, p<0.05).

Conclusions

Pre‐pregnancy obesity and poor diet synergistically increase neonatal adiposity. Dietary interventions targeted at women with obesity before pregnancy may reduce neonatal adiposity.

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Changes in leukocytes populations related to commercial sucralose intake
Authors: Sánchez Delgado Marcela , Estrada José , Contreras Irazú
Published: June 2021

The food industry currently uses different compounds to satisfy the palatability of food without providing calories, including non‐nutritive sweeteners such as sucralose. The consumption of sucralose has increased in the last few years, not only in patients with obesity or type 2 diabetes, but also in the general population. Since sweeteners are designed to give flavor without providing calories, it is conceivable these compounds might also affect cellular metabolism. The immune system is the main defense of the organism and requires energy to perform its functions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine changes in leucocytes populations in spleen, thymus and lymphatic nodes in mice that consumed commercial sucralose for a prolonged period of time. 14 week‐old BALB/c mice consumed ad libitum commercial sucralose in daily water for 6 weeks. After treatment, leukocytes from the selected organs were harvested and the subpopulations were analyzed by flow cytometry using the surface markers CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19 and CD16. Our preliminary results show no differences between leukocyte subpopulations in the spleen. We found an increase in the number of both CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in the thymus in the sucralose group. Finally, we observed an increase in the number of NK cells in the lymph nodes in the same group. Our results suggest that chronic consumption of commercial sucralose may affect leukocyte subpopulations in the thymus and lymph nodes; however, further work is necessary to determine the effect of chronic sweetener intake on the activation capacity and effector functions of these cells.
Immuno‐stimulatory activities of a blend of natural extracts in human immune cells
Authors: Wang Hong , Daggy Bruce
Published: June 2021

Polysaccharides are naturally present as cell wall components in plant and fungi. Certain polysaccharides with specific structures such as β‐D‐ (1, 3/1, 6)‐glucan are the active ingredients in many well‐known immuno‐modulatory foods including yeast and mushrooms. β‐D‐ (1,3/1,6)‐glucan is recognized and taken up by the mammalian immune cells such as macrophages/dendritic cells via β‐glucan receptors (dectin‐1/TLR‐2) on the cell membrane. Due to the structural similarity between certain β‐glucans and polysaccharides found in microorganisms, our immune cells regard them as “pathogen‐associated molecules” and will elicit an activated immune response. This activity has been demonstrated in both laboratory and clinical studies. We investigated the in vitro immuno‐stimulatory effects on cytokine production and lymphocyte proliferation of a yeast extract polysaccharide with and without additional polysaccharides from other fungi and herbal extracts, total tested sample weight held constant. The polysaccharide preparations were incubated with human immune cells isolated from blood of a healthy donor. The results showed that a specific yeast extract blend had potent immuno‐stimulatory effects and was superior to yeast β‐glucan alone in several cytokine parameters and lymphocyte proliferation. This suggests that extract blend may potentiate the immuno‐stimulatory effects of β‐glucan and enhance the efficacy.
Dietary Pattern and Rice Consumption in Northwest Arkansas
Authors: Pottgen Ellen , Yoon Suk Hoo , Poquette Nicole , Seo Han‐Seok , Lee Sun‐Ok
Published: June 2021

Rice is used in a variety of products and recipes, including Korean rice cakes. The objective of this study is to determine the dietary intake and consumption of brown and white rice in Northwest Arkansas. A food frequency questionnaire was administered to assess dietary intake and rice consumption. Surveys were collected from Caucasian men (n=60) and women (n=106), with an average age of 30.8±14.3, residing in Northwest Arkansas. Nutrition data was analyzed by Nutritionist Pro™ software (Stafford, TX). Results were categorized by gender and age (18‐30, n=111, 31‐50, n=30, and 51+ n=25). No statistically significant difference was found for calories, carbohydrate percentage, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fat or cholesterol between age groups. Individuals 18‐30 consumed significantly more protein than ages 31‐50 (p<0.05). Individuals 51‐70 consumed significantly more lipids than those 18‐30 (p<0.05). Ages 31‐50 consumed significantly more fiber than ages 18‐30 and 51‐70, and more polyunsaturated fat than those 18‐30 (p<0.05). The majority reported white rice consumption 1‐3 times monthly (37%) and brown rice consumption less than once monthly (55%). Individuals 31‐50 consumed the most white rice weekly (37%) and the most brown rice monthly (50%). This data suggests that individuals 31‐50 consume the highest amount of fiber and polyunsaturated fat and rice. With increasing gluten‐intolerance, rice and rice product will continue to be utilized for future research application. Funding provided by Korean Food Research Institute is greatly appreciated.
Increasing Healthful Food Variety is Associated with Reduced Total and Food‐specific Cravings among Men in the POUNDS Lost Weight‐loss Trial
Authors: Vadiveloo Maya , Sacks Frank , Bray George , Mattei Josiemer
Published: June 2021

Increasing healthful variety may reduce adiposity, but the underlying psychological mechanisms are unknown. We aimed to examine if reducing, maintaining, or increasing healthful food variety affected changes in food cravings among men (n=155) and women (n=195) participating in the POUNDS Lost weight‐loss trial with dietary data at baseline and 6‐months. Healthful dietary variety was quantified with the validated US Healthy Food Diversity (US HFD) index, which measures variety, proportionality, and food quality. Six‐month changes in the US HFD index were divided into tertiles (T); T1=reduced, T2=stable, T3=increased variety. The 33‐item Food Craving Inventory‐II assessed cravings of specific foods from 1 (never) to 5 (always) at 0 and 6‐months. A significant interaction between the US HFD index and food cravings by sex was observed. Generalized linear models were stratified by sex, and adjusted for age, diet arm, and changes in fullness, restraint, hunger, general cravings, and body weight to determine if 6‐month changes in food craving scores varied by tertile of US HFD index change. Increased (T3) versus reduced (T1) variety was associated with reduced cravings for high‐fat foods (‐0.27 vs. 0.07, p=0.007), sweets (‐0.33 vs. ‐0.07, p=0.04), carbohydrates (‐0.17 vs. 0.17, p=0.02), and total cravings (‐0.21 vs. 0.07, p=0.006) in men. Increased variety was not associated with cravings in women, except non‐significantly for fruit and vegetables (0.15 vs. ‐0.17, p=0.07; T3 vs. T1). Our results suggest that increasing healthful variety may help men trying to lose weight reduce food cravings and may be a novel strategy to promote dietary adherence.
Long‐chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Status Associates with Bone Mass in Overweight and Obese Children
Authors: Mak Ivy , Cohen Tamara , Loiselle Sarah‐Eve , Vanstone Catherine , Hazell Tom , Weiler Hope
Published: June 2021

Children who are obese are at increased risk of fractures. However, linkages to possible nutritional imbalances are unclear. Experimental studies suggest long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) such as arachidonic acid (AA C20:4 n6) modulate bone mass in a biphasic manner, yet it is uncertain whether this is observed in humans. This study examined the relationship between LCPUFA status and bone mass in overweight and obese (OvOb) children. Participants (n=119, 9.28 ± 1.89 y, BMI‐z 3.03 ± 1.02) were assessed for bone mass with DXA (Hologic Discovery). Fatty acid profile was measured in red blood cells (RBC) using gas chromatography. A generalized linear model was used to determine relationships between LCPUFA in RBC and bone outcomes with adjustments for Tanner stages and BMI. Saturated fatty acids palmitate (C16:0) and stearate (C18:0) inversely related to lumbar spine bone mineral density (r=‐0.18 and ‐0.22 respectively, p<0.05); while the omega‐3 fatty acid α‐linoleneate (ALA, C18:3 n3) positively related to whole body, total hip, ultra‐distal and mid forearm bone area, mineral content (BMC) and density (r=0.21 to 0.31, p<0.05). When children were divided into three groups by AA tertiles (cutoffs by 33rd and 67th percentile of % total FA) and compared with MIXED model ANOVA, those in the second tertile had greater forearm bone area and BMC than those in the first or third tertiles (Table 1), indicating higher AA levels may not confer additional benefits in bone growth and mineral accrual. These data suggest LCPUFA may play important roles in modulating bone mass during growth in OvOb children.

1st tertile (n=39) [4.67‐7.51%]
2nd tertile (n=35)[7.52‐ 8.42%]
3rd tertile (n=45)[8.44‐14.06%]

Ultra‐dista
Area (cm2)
4.09 ± 0.64a
4.67 ± 0.67b
4.29 ± 0.63a

BMC (g)
1.32 ± 0.05
1.51 ± 0.09
1.38 ± 0.07

Mid
Area (cm2)
7.50 ± 0.47ab
9.21 ± 0.55a
7.75 ± 0.32b

BMC (g)
3.05 ± 0.22a
4.02 ± 0.34b
3.31 ± 0.19a

1/3 distal
Area (cm2)
4.33 ± 0.10a
4.74 ± 0.10b
4.38 ± 0.06a

BMC (g)
2.11 ± 0.09
2.43 ± 0.13
2.28 ± 0.09
Adipokine Production in Mice Fed High‐fat Diets Containing Different Types of Dietary Fats
Authors: Yan Lin , Lie Wen‐Rong
Published: June 2021

The present study compared high‐fat diets containing different types of dietary fats with various levels of linoleic acid (18:2n6, LA) and α‐linolenic acid (18:3n3, ALA) on adipokine production in male C57BL/6 mice. Three‐week old mice were fed AIN93G diet (15% of energy from corn oil, control) or a high‐fat diet with 45% of energy from corn oil (ALA deficient, high LA), soybean oil (ALA adequate, high LA), high‐oleic sunflower oil (ALA adequate, low LA), flaxseed oil (ALA adequate, LA adequate) or fish oil (high ALA, eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n‐3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3, DHA), low LA) for 11 weeks. High‐fat diets, regardless of types of oils, increased body weight (P < 0.05) and body fat mass (P < 0.05) compared to the AIN93G‐fed controls; there were no significant differences in body weight and body fat among the high‐fat fed groups. High‐fat fed mice consumed less food than the controls (P < 0.05), however, there was no significant difference in caloric intake among all of the groups. High‐fat diets, with the exception of the fish oil diet, elevated plasma levels of insulin compared to the controls (P < 0.05) with no difference in plasma insulin between the control and the fish oil groups. Plasma concentrations of adiponectin were significantly elevated in the fish oil‐fed group compared to the control group (P < 0.05) or each of the other high‐fat fed groups (P < 0.05). We conclude that consumption of fish oil may affect adipokine profile in mice in a favorable manner compared to other types of dietary fats.