bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of sub‐therapeutic staurosporine on inhibition of budding and replication of lipid‐enveloped viruses
Authors: Fraser Mark , Stahelin Robert
Published: November 2023

Infectious Diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality internationally, disproportionately affecting developing countries. Many of the deficits caused by infectious diseases are due to viruses, specifically lipid‐enveloped viruses. By identifying a common infectious pathway via viral phosphatidylserine (PS) to host TIM protein receptor and a class of drug that was recently found to potentially interfere with this common pathway, it was hypothesized that staurosporines, specifically UCN‐01, can inhibit viral infection and replication of lipid‐enveloped viruses dependent on viral PS and host TIM receptor interactions, including but not limited to Ebola virus, Marburg virus, HIV‐1, Dengue virus, Chikungunya virus, and Zika virus. The effects of UCN‐01 on the effects of PS localization in mammalian cells, the effects of UCN‐01 on GFP tagged viral matrix proteins in cell culture, and the efficacy of UCN‐01 on live virus infected cells are being studied. It was shown using confocal microscopy that UCN‐01 is able to significantly reduce plasma membrane localization of both ebola VP40 and HIV‐gag proteins in HEK cells. Flow cytometry was also performed on samples under the same experimental conditions showing alterations in external cell membrane PS expression and drug toxicity over a range of concentrations. This pathway was further supported by previous work done in this lab by showing that Ebola VP40 protein induces PS expression in a cell culture model by using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. By testing UCN‐01 to determine cell toxicity using Caspase 3 and MTT assays, the dosing used in these experiments were shown to affect cellular metabolism, but at sub‐lethal levels to the cells. By investigating how UCN‐01 affects cell lipidomics using mass spectrometry, more can be understood about the mechanism of action of these drugs interfering with PS and their appropriateness for pursuing as broad class antivirals. In addition, UCN‐01 will be studied in how it can interfere with virus like particle production. After showing efficacy at sub‐toxic levels in the matrix protein model, live virus studies were initiated and have already shown complete viral infectivity inhibition using low MOIs of Dengue virus using TCID‐50 assays. These studies, if successful at decreasing infectivity or viral replication, could lead into future animal model studies that may be taken into clinical trials, producing a broad‐spectrum anti‐viral therapy that would have the potential to eliminate a large portion of the global health burden.

Support or Funding Information

Fellowship provided by University of Notre Dame Eck Institute for Global Health
Neuroprotective effects of lutein in neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury
Authors: Foster Chase H , Sambalingam Devaraj , Gong Xiaoming , Rubin Lewis P
Published: November 2023

Background

Hypoxic‐ischemic (HI) brain injury is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and, in survivors, of severe neurological disability and it is a major source of developmental and cognitive impairments in children and adults. In HI, injury pathways include excitotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The carotenoid lutein (and its isomer zeaxanthin) are selectively taken up and accumulated in the brain. Based on the lutein effects in improving later life cognition, we postulated lutein may have neuroprotective effects in HI.

Methods

We used a validated neonatal rat model of HI brain injury induced by unilateral carotid artery ligation (ischemia) on postnatal day 7 (P7) and subsequent exposure to 8% oxygen (hypoxia) for 2.5 h. Dams were fed a lutein‐rich or control chow diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. From P7 (HI) to P10 (sacrifice), nursing pups also received lutein or vehicle by intra‐peritoneal injection. Brain sections were examined with H&E, Nissl, and immunohistochemical staining and apoptotic assays. Protein expression (e.g., HIF‐1α, nNOS) was evaluated by western blot. RT‐qPCR expression arrays were used to evaluate changes in expression of targeted genes involved in hypoxic, apoptotic, and neuroinflammatory pathways.

Results

Lutein supplementation resulted in lutein accumulation in milk and neonatal brain tissues. Lutein treatment, in this model, reduced histological brain injury scores and suppressed: (a) RNA and protein expression of key neuroinflammatory mediators, (b) expression of hypoxia‐inducible proteins (including HIF‐1α), and (c) microglial (inflammatory) activation in several brain regions particularly susceptible to HI injury. Additionally, lutein exerted anti‐apoptotic effects including altered expression of several apoptosis‐related genes: BIK, Birc5, Bnic2, and Casp2–6.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate: (1) there is maternal/fetal transfer and uptake of dietary lutein into milk and brain in the rat; (2) this rodent model is informative for testing the effects of lutein on HI brain injury and neurodevelopment; and (3) pre‐ and peri‐injury lutein administration suppresses multiple deleterious response pathways in HI. These findings suggest lutein supplementation is a promising preventive and therapeutic strategy for limiting pathological consequences of HI brain injury. This model including manipulation of lutein intake is applicable to other brain disorders including traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, and stroke.

Support or Funding Information

Seed grant from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso
High fat diet induces gender‐specific differential gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster brain
Authors: Stobdan Tsering , Azad Priti , Heinrichsen Erilynn , Sahoo Debashis , Hartley Iain , Zhou Dan , Haddad Gabriel G
Published: November 2023

Background

The high‐fat diet is ranked as the second most lethal habit after smoking. Beside obesity, which counts for more than one‐third (34.9% or 78.6 million) of US adults, high‐fat diets also accounts for most of the leading causes of death e.g., heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Recent finding also suggests that regularly eating high‐fat diet could damage brain cells, however the knowledge on its causes and effects are limited.

Objective

In this study we hypothesize that the whole transcriptome analysis of Drosophila melanogaster brain kept on high‐fat diet would provide us with clues pertaining to metabolic disturbances that are potentially organ‐specific.

Method & Results

Adult males and females, 1–3 days old, Drosophila melanogaster collected and kept the experimental group on high‐fat diet (20% w/v coconut oil) and controls on regular diet for one week. Heads and body were collected on liquid N2 for RNA isolation. In this particular study, we compared the transcriptomic profile of the heads of flies kept on high‐fat vs regular diet, both in males and females and used a Boolean method for mining specific genes and pathways. A considerable number of genes were differentially expressed in the head as a result of being on high‐fat diet. Interestingly, these genes were gender specific, with only few that were common between male and female heads. The composite network analysis of these genes reveals that the male specific genes are involved in odorant, pheromone and chemical sensing. In the females the genes were limited to lipid metabolic processing.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate, for the first time to our knowledge, that high‐fat diet triggers the differential expression of genes in brain and these were gender‐specific. It is worth speculating that such gender‐specific variability in gene expression, particularly in the brain, could pave the way to understanding gender‐specific metabolic disturbances as a result of high fat diet.

Support or Funding Information

NIH, Emerald Foundation
Neuroprotective Effect of Spirulina maxima Extract against Trimethyltin‐Induced Neuronal Damage in HT‐22 Cells
Authors: Chei Sungwoo , Koh Eun‐Jeong , Seo Young‐Jin , Choi Jia , Lee Yeon‐Joo , Hwang Ji‐Hyun , Song Ji‐Hyeon , Choi Seo‐Yun , Park Min‐Ki , Lee Boo‐Yong
Published: November 2023

Spirulina (Arthrospira) includes various species of primitive unicellular blue‐green algae, most commonly S. platensis and S. maxima. one of the common compounds, Spirulina maxima, which is used as a food additive, is a microalga rich in protein and other essential nutrients. It has been reported that Spirulina maxima has anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. Recently, many reports showed the neurotoxicity effects in central nervous system (CNS). Trimethyltin as a compound used a model of cognitive disorders, induces neurotoxicity in CNS. It causes neuropathological symptoms, cognitive impairments, hyperactivity, aggressive behavior, and seizures. So, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of Spirulina maxima extract in cognitive dysfunction by using TMT‐induced model in HT‐22 cells. The results showed that Spirulina maxima extract increases cell viability with TMT exposure by measuring MTT assay in HT‐22 cells. Also, Spirulina maxima Extract inhibited ROS production by decreasing NOX4 and SOD2 related with oxidative stress. In addition, Spirulina maxima Extract elevated protein levels of p‐CREB and BDNF associated with neuroprotective responses. In this results, Spirulina maxima Extract increases the proteins related with neuroprotective effects against Trimethyltin‐Induced Cognitive Disorders in HT‐22 Cells.
Migraine as a Metabolic Disease
Authors: Stanton Angela A
Published: November 2023

Migraine is classified as a neurovascular disease and most treatment is aimed at pain prevention or release. However, the cause of migraine is poorly understood and medicinal treatments often fail. Here we identify that genetic metabolic sensitivities are the cause of migraine and demonstrate that migraine treatment and prevention is possible without the use of medicines. We summarize available research and logically lead to key points that show that migraine is a metabolic disease. Although we did not run laboratory experiments, we used surveys and self‐reporting in a migraine group on Facebook with thousands of members of whom several hundred agreed to participate with surveys, reports, and metadata research. The outcome showed that genetic mutation caused metabolic changes make migraineurs sensitive extremely to carbohydrates and to the difficulties associated with the maintenance of electrolyte homeostasis, which is easily disrupted by the consumption of carbohydrates. When migraineurs became aware and reduced their dietary carbohydrates, managed their electrolytes by increasing sodium and potassium rich foods, increased water and fat in their diet, migraines were prevented. The changes were strong enough to encourage migraineurs to quit all their medicines, surgically remove their neuronal stimulators, and remained migraine free—some almost three years by now, the start of our research.

Support or Funding Information

No funding was requested or provided

No financial support was received

No conflict of interest
Is it Exercise or a Scenic Walk? Reframing Physical Activity as Fun Leads to Reduced Calorie Compensation, Healthier Meals, and Less Snacking
Authors: Wansink Brian , Werle Carolina O. C.
Published: November 2023

Could the simple reframing of physical activity‐‐as an exercise walk versus a scenic walk‐‐influence the eating behavior of nutritionists? We sought to determine whether compensation or reward behavior occurred outside of a lab, and to determine if compensation effects persist over time. 34 female nutritionists were asked to discuss a study where people who believed they were on an exercise walk ate more at lunch than those believing they were on a scenic walk. Two hours later the retreat participants took a similar walk. Their lunch selections were observed as well as subsequent afternoon snacking behavior. The data were collected and analyzed in 2014. People who believed they had been on a scenic walk consumed only 62% as many afternoon snack calories compared to those who believed they were on an exercise walk. Participants in the scenic condition also consumed more salad and vegetables during lunch, although there were no differences in the total amount of calories served or eaten across conditions. While exercisers might be immediately resistant in their lunchtime choices, they can be easily influenced later when eating snacks. This could provide useful insights or reframing that health professionals, fitness coaches, and everyday athletes could use to motivate themselves without the promise of a reward.
Regression of Pressure Overload‐Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy by Trientine‐Induced Copper Redistribution to the Heart in Rats
Authors: Liu Jiaming , Liu Yinjie , Fu Chunyan , Xiao Ying , Feng Qipu , Fan Suzhen , Ding Xueqin , Qiu Liying , Han Pengfei , Kang Y. James
Published: November 2023

Sustained pressure overload leads to pathological cardiac hypertrophy and copper efflux from the heart with a simultaneous increase in plasma copper concentrations. We have observed that copper‐trientine complex increased copper uptake by primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. The present study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that trientine can redistribute copper from plasma to the copper‐depleted heart tissue. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were subjected to ascending aortic constriction (AAC). Sixteen weeks after the operation, cardiac hypertrophy was observed by echocardiography. Trientine at a dose of 4.38 mg/kg, twice a day, was administered orally for 6 weeks. At the end of the treatment, copper concentrations were significantly increased in the heart along with a reduction of plasma copper concentrations. This copper repletion in the heart led to regression of cardiac hypertrophy as judged by IVSD and LVPWD, and recovery of cardiac contractile function as measured by EF and FS. In addition, cardiac fibrosis was also reduced as reflected by the decrease in the content of collagens type I and III and the reduced cross linking of the collagens. This study demonstrates that trientine, although traditionally considered as a copper chelator, is capable of redistributing copper from plasma to the heart, leading to regression of pathological cardiac hypertrophy.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by National Science Foundation of China (81230004 and 81300109).
Zinc and Copper in Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Authors: Sachdev Prageet K , Freeland‐Graves Jeanne , Beretvas Natasha S , Sanjeevi Namrata
Published: November 2023

Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a precancerous condition of the oral cavity that is characterized by inflammation and progressive fibrosis of the submucosal tissues. This chronic condition is more prevalent among South Asian population, but cases have also been identified in Europe and North America. The trace elements zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu), act as cofactors of antioxidant enzymes that are protective against free radicals. Studies have reported altered Zn and Cu in the body fluids of OSMF subjects; but findings are inconsistent. The objective of this research is to perform a meta‐analysis to summarize studies that report Zn and Cu status in subjects with and without OSMF. A literature search of Embase, PubMed, Cochrane library and Web of Science electronic databases was conducted for cross sectional, case‐controlled and prospective studies investigating the trace element concentrations in OSMF subjects up to November 2016. Values for these trace elements for control and patient groups were extracted. A total of 22 reports met the inclusion criteria, amounting to 44 effect sizes. Standardized mean difference, the bias corrected Hedges' g, was utilized as the effect size for the meta‐analysis. Robust Variance Estimation (RVE) method was chosen to handle dependency of multiple related outcomes in meta‐analysis. No publication bias was found from the funnel plot. Results suggested a significant increase in the levels of Cu (effect size= 2.70, p‐value <0.05, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.371 — 5.032) and a significant decrease in levels of Zn (effect size= −1.57, p‐value <0.01, 95% CI: −2.676 — −0.459) in OSMF patients as compared to controls. The estimation of zinc and copper status may serve as an additional tool to understand OSMF along with the clinical features.

Support or Funding Information

The Bess Heflin Centennial Professorship
Multiple Low‐Level Metal Exposure and Indicators of Weight and Height in Uruguayan Urban School Children
Authors: Donangelo Carmen Marino , Queirolo Elena I , Mañay Nelly , Peregalli Fabiana , Kordas Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

The contribution of chronic environmental lead and other toxic metal exposure to anthropometric status of children is unclear. Effects of multiple metal interactions at low levels of exposure are unknown. In this study, associations between concentrations of lead in blood, and of arsenic, cadmium, and manganese in hair, and indicators of weight and height status were examined in Uruguayan urban school children (n=290). Study recruitment, procedures and informed consent were approved by Institutional Ethical Committees. Fasting blood samples were collected, and lead in blood (BLL) was analyzed by GFAAS. Hair was cut close to the scalp with stainless steel scissors, from back of the head. Metals in hair were analyzed by ICPMS. Associations were examined by multifactor ANOVA and multiple regression analyses, with gender and tertiles of metal concentrations entered as factors into a single model, adjusted for serum ferritin corrected for C‐reactive protein. HAZ (height for age Z score), WAZ (weight for age Z score) and BAZ (body mass index for age Z score), were modeled separately. Children were 6–9 years old, 45% girls, non‐anemic, and with low iron reserves (median serum ferritin: 17.9 μg/L). Median Z scores of anthropometric measures were adequate (0.41, 0.70, 0.60, for HAZ, WAZ, BAZ, respectively), but with wide ranges between extreme values. Median (range) for BLL was 4.0 (0.8–13.2) μg/dL, and for hair metals: Mn 0.81 (0.06–25.7), As 0.052 (0.002–1.332), Cd 0.095 (0.005–0.8), μg/g. BLL was negatively associated with all 3 anthropometric Z scores (P≤0.003). Children at the lowest BLL tertile had higher mean Z scores than in each of the other tertiles (0.48 and 0.59 higher for HAZ; 0.77 and 0.60 for WAZ; 0.78 and 0.40 for BAZ). Hair Mn was positively associated with BAZ (P=0.017). Hair As tended to have a positive association with WAZ (P=0.0502). Exposure to low levels of lead may impair measures of anthropometric growth in children of school age. Interactions between low levels of combined metals exposure and anthropometric indices in children appear to be complex, and possibly related to nutritional status and other unknown factors.

Support or Funding Information

NIEHS R21ES16523, R21ES019949
Nutritional Resilience Following the 2015 Earthquake in Nepal
Authors: Thorne‐Lyman Andrew L , Manohar Swetha , Shrestha Binod , Neupane Sumanta , Nonyane Bareng , Shrestha Sudeep , Webb Patrick , Klemm Rolf DW , West Keith P
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The earthquake that hit Nepal in April, 2015, caused considerable structural damage and loss of life but little is known about the longer term impacts of the earthquake on nutritional status of preschool children and related risk factors. This analysis provides the first systematic national estimate of the nutritional situation in Nepal following the earthquake.

OBJECTIVE

Identify individual, household and community level factors associated with stunting in Nepali children 6–59 months of age.

METHODS

The Policy and Science for Health, Agriculture, and Nutrition (PoSHAN) study under the Nutrition Innovation Lab operating in Nepal has established a national agriculture‐to‐nutrition surveillance system comprising a representative sample of ~5500 households in 63 wards across 21 districts, 7 in each of the 3 agro‐ecological zones of the country. Within each ward, all households with a child under 5 years of age or a newly married woman were eligible for inclusion. We present data from three annual rounds of data collection conducted at the same sites in the same season each year (2013, 2014, and 2016), with <50% of 2016 data yet available at submission. Household agricultural, SES, dietary, anthropometric, program and other risk factor and resource data were collected each year. Child anthropometry included height and weight, with status expressed as height‐for‐age (HAZ) and weight‐for‐height or length (WHZ or WLZ) z‐scores against the WHO growth reference.

RESULTS

Data is available for 5401 children surveyed in 2013, 5474 in 2014 and, to date, 2188 in 2016. Over the 3‐year period the national prevalence of stunting (<‐2HAZ) remained stable at 35.5%, 37.4%, and 34.6%, respectively. Wasting (<‐2 WHZ or WLZ) decreased from 17.7% to 16.3% to 12.9% in 2013, 2014 and 2016, respectively. The final analysis will isolate trends in agricultural productivity, household food security, dietary diversity and nutritional status by quake affected areas within zones.

CONCLUSION

Available data from one year after the earthquake suggests that the earthquake was not associated with an increase in national rates of malnutrition, and are consistent with a reduction in wasting malnutrition over the three period.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Nutrition
A Grandmother‐Inclusive Approach to Community Nutrition Education Improves Infant and Young Child Feeding Outcomes in Southern Sierra Leone
Authors: Wee Rebecca , Simba Joseph , Aidam Bridget , Gruenewald Christina , Aubel Judi , MacDonald Carolyn , Bangura Allieu S , Girard Amy Webb
Published: November 2023

Suboptimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices contribute to child undernutrition in Sierra Leone. We examined whether a grandmother‐inclusive approach to nutrition‐related social and behavior change could improve maternal diet and IYCF outcomes in southern Sierra Leone. The GM‐inclusive approach is grounded in formative ethnographic research and builds on GMs' culturally‐designated role as advisors and caregivers and aims to strengthen their knowledge and confidence to promote positive change for maternal and child health. Following mixed methods formative research, World Vision implemented a quasi‐experimental proof of concept study in two sections in the Bum Chiefdom, Bonthe Sierra Leone. The villages of one section received the grandmother‐inclusive approach consisting of monthly participatory nutrition education sessions with GM, quarterly community praise sessions focused on the attributes of and supportive roles of GM, the identification and support of GM leaders as change agents for maternal and child health and intergenerational forums. Villages in the control section received the standard of care for nutrition education provided by the Ministry of Health. The endline survey utilized a census based sampling strategy and surveyed all women in the study communities who were pregnant or had a child less than 2 years of age. Data were collected on household sociodemographics, maternal diet and IYCF knowledge, attitudes, and intentions/practices. Preliminary analyses examined differences in proportions between intervention and comparison participants with chi‐square. At endline, infants (n=291) were on average 11.8± 6.9 months of age and 52.2% were female. The proportion of 0–23 month olds exclusively breastfed during the first week of life was significantly higher in the intervention group (90.2% vs 79.4%, P=0.01) but there were no statistically significant differences in other breastfeeding practices. Among infants 6–23 months, the proportion achieving minimum dietary diversity (77.2% vs 51.8%, P<0.001) and minimum acceptable diet (53.8% vs 22.6%, P<0.001) was significantly higher in the intervention group. Differences in the proportions achieving minimum meal frequency were only significant for infants 9–23 months of age with a greater proportion of infants in the intervention group achieving minimum meal frequency (54.6% vs 36.9%, P=0.02). Preliminary analyses suggest that a grandmother‐inclusive approach that recognizes GMs' role in child nutrition and health and strengthens their knowledge can contribute to improved IYCF practices.

Support or Funding Information

Support provided by World Vision Canada, Nutrition Centre of Expertise, World Vision Germany, World Vision Sierra Leone and the Emory University Global Field Experiences Program.
Ethnicity and Socioeconomic Factors Are Associated with Poor Nutritional Status in Female Tea Plantation Workers from Rural India
Authors: Venkatramanan Sudha , Marquis Grace S , Haas Jere D
Published: November 2023

Poor nutritional status is a major challenge for rural Indian women. The objective of the present study was to determine the association between the socioeconomic and nutritional status of female tea plantation workers from West Bengal, India.

Methods

This cross‐sectional survey collected data on the nutritional and socioeconomic status of 246 female tea plantation workers from Panighata tea garden, West Bengal. The participants were non‐pregnant female estate workers of Adivasi and Nepali ethnic groups who were full‐time, experienced, permanently employed tea pickers. Poor nutritional status or underweight was defined as BMI <18.5 wt/ht2 (kg/m2).

Results

The prevalence of underweight was 57% and 17% in Adivasi and Nepali, respectively. The estimated odds (OR [95% CI]) of being underweight was 6.5 times greater in Adivasi compared to Nepali women (OR=6.5 [3.6, 11.7]; p=<0.0001). The odds of being underweight when toilet facilities were present were 70 percent lower than when the toilet facilities were not available (OR = 0.3 [0.1, 0.6]; p=0.002). Similarly, being underweight was negatively associated with the literacy of the spouse (OR = 0.3 [0.1, 0.7]; p=0.004). The effect of ethnicity on nutritional status was still significant after controlling for socioeconomic variables (OR=2.7 [1.1, 6.9]; p=0.03).

Conclusions

Poor socioeconomic status and exposure to poor sanitation challenge the health of rural Indian women. Ethnicity is an additional barrier affecting the nutritional status of these tea plantation workers with the Adivasi tribal population at the greatest risk for underweight. To improve women's nutritional situation in rural India, it is important to implement comprehensive nutritional, educational, and health programmes considering the ethnic diversity along with the existing rural development policies and programmes.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Mathile Institute for the Advancement of Human Nutrition and the Micronutrient Initiative
Cross Sectional Survey of Pregnant Adolescent Malnutrition in Rural Malawi
Authors: Patella Christine , Thakwalakwa Chrissie , Stoecker Barbara J
Published: November 2023

The high rates of adolescent pregnancies in Malawi challenge the health and nutritional status for both the mother and infant. If an adolescent is unable to meet her own nutritional needs and becomes malnourished, this may lead to a continued cycle of complications. Research involving the nutritional status of pregnant adolescents in Malawi is lacking. The purpose of this study was to assess diet diversity and nutritional status in pregnant adolescents in rural Malawi. The study included sixty‐two pregnant adolescents. The mean age of the subjects was 17.7 years (SD 1.2). Of the sixty‐two subjects, 84% were married, 98% were not enrolled in school, and 92% were not working outside of the home. For 89% of the subjects, this was their first pregnancy. Data were collected using a pre‐tested questionnaire and a standardized dietary diversity survey. Mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC), height, weight, and hemoglobin (Hgb) were measured. The mean (SD) MUAC was 25.9 (2.0) cm. The mean Hgb was 10.4 (1.9) g/dL and 66% had a Hgb lower than 11 g/dL. In this season of relatively available fruits and vegetables, the mean diet diversity score was 3.8 (3.2). Dietary intake results included 98% eating starchy staples, 62% eating dark leafy green vegetables, 56% eating Vitamin A rich fruits and vegetables, 89% eating other fruits and vegetables, 39% eating meat or fish, 31% eating legumes, nuts, or seeds, 6% eating eggs, and 0% eating milk or milk products. Of the sixty‐two subjects, 63% were not taking any vitamin/mineral supplements while 37% were taking ferrous sulfate. 35% restricted some foods during pregnancy, 52% received no advice regarding foods to eat during pregnancy, and 92% received no advice regarding infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices. Interventions for pregnant adolescents should include nutrition education on dietary diversity, healthy nutrition during pregnancy, and IYCF guidelines.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Child Legacy International (CLI) and CLI Scholarship, Humphrey's Travel Grant, and Watkins' Matthew 25:40 Scholarship.
Utilizing a processing‐based diet index to measure change in BMI in a population undergoing a nutrition transition
Authors: Cooper Erica L , Baylin Ana , Jones Andrew
Published: November 2023

Low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) experiencing rapid shifts in dietary and physical activity patterns that characterize the nutrition transition are correspondingly contributing to an increase in obesity at a greater rate than high‐income countries. One of the principal defining characteristics of dietary change in LMICs has been an increase in the consumption of highly processed foods, which in turn has been implicated in the rising prevalence of obesity observed in these countries. However, identifying the relationship between food processing and obesity has proven difficult because current approaches for measuring the degree of processing in diets have been inadequate.

This study used cross‐sectional primary data collection from participants enrolled in an ongoing three‐year longitudinal cohort study. Implementing the use of food frequency questionnaires, 24‐hour dietary recalls, and a novel processing‐based diet index (i.e., the Processed Food Dietary Index (PFDI)) to characterize the level of processing of diets among women of reproductive age (18–49 years) living in Montero, Bolivia, measurements to assess body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) were also collected to examine the association of the extent of processing of diets with prevalent obesity among these women.

Participants were women that consumed a highly processed diet (n=80, mean ± standard deviation age 32.65 ± 8.68 years) or a minimally processed diet (n=80, mean ± standard deviation age 32.13 ± 9.28 years) as determined by baseline FFQs from their participation in the longitudinal cohort study. Upon enrollment in the cross‐sectional sub‐study, participants completed three non‐sequential 24‐hour dietary recalls and had their height, weight, waist and hip circumference measured by trained research assistants over the course of three in‐home visits during September‐October 2016. Mean BMI [calculated as kg/m2] and WHR [calculated as waist [cm]/hip [cm]] of participants that consumed a highly processed diet was 30.21 ± 5.42 and 0.84 ± 0.08, whereas mean BMI and WHR of participants that consumed a minimally processed diet was 28.91± 5.76 and 0.83 ± 0.08, respectively.

This research is significant in that it utilizes a new paradigm of dietary pattern analysis to investigate the extent to which the processing level of diets may be associated with obesity. Intrinsically linked with the nutrition transition, food processing has provided freedom from the daily need to process raw commodities, contributing to societal growth and development. The knowledge attained through this study will inform public health efforts to mitigate the effects of dietary transitions on the increasing prevalence and persistence of obesity by motivating future behavioral change.
Economic development and associations with growth of preschool children in the Middle East and North African Region
Authors: Jones Rebecca Evelyn , Cunningham Solveig
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Globally, populations are experiencing major economic and social changes, which are coinciding with increasing prevalence of obesity, even as under‐nutrition has not been fully eliminated. In this study, we investigate the associations between growth patterns among young children and economic development in the Middle East and North African(MENA) Region, a region demonstrating these rapid changes and experiencing high levels of obesity in adult populations.

Methods

We used nationally representative data from the most recent Demographic and Health Survey (2001–2014) in the seven countries of the MENA region (n=47,998) with available data (Azerbaijan, Egypt, Jordan, Mauritania, Morocco, Turkey, and Yemen). Survey‐adjusted multinomial logistic regression was used to quantify predictors of child growth measured in terms of stunting, thinness, and overweight. Measures of economic development were quantified Gross Domestic Product and Human Development Index and change therein during the previous 5‐years.

Results

Adjusting for child and household characteristics, children in countries categorized as low HDI were more likely to be stunted (1.80[1.54,2.03]). Children in countries categorized as high HDI were less likely to be stunted (0.37[0.34,0.40]) or thin (0.18[0.15,0.21]) but were not more likely to be overweight (0.27[0.23,0.30]). A 1000 USD change in GDP in the past 5 years was associated with a higher prevalence of overweight (15.6%) compared to no change (5%) and a 2000 USD change (4.8%).

Conclusions

As HDI increases, children are less likely to be stunted. Rapid economic change is associated with child over‐nutrition. National economic indicators are associated with child growth patterns even after accounting for household and individual characteristics.
A Reliable Instrument of Health Literacy in Hospitalized Patients: 3‐Question Brief Health Literacy Screen (BHLS)
Authors: Dikmen Derya , Madalı Berna , Özdemir Aslıhan , İnan‐Eroğlu Elif
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Health literacy is generally defined as the ability and motivation of individuals to access, understand and use basic health knowledge. Some studies showed that low health literacy is associated with longer average length of stay in hospital and less effective utilization of health care.

Aim

The purpose of this was to compare the health literacy levels of patients with Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S‐TOFHLA), Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM) and 3‐Question Brief Health Literacy Screen (BHLS).

Method

In this study, individuals who were hospitalized comprised of 103 (42.9%) men and 137 (57.1%) women patients, ranged from 18 to 64 years (44.9±13.75 years). In this study, S‐TOFHLA, REALM and BHLS were used to determine patients' health literacy. Questions on socio‐demographic characteristics were also included.

Results

A total of 240 patients were recruited for the study. On the S‐TOFHLA, 65% of the patients had adequate health literacy. On the REALM, 50.4% of patients were able to read most of the patient education materials. According to BHLS 57.9 % of the patients were categorized as adequate health literacy. It was found that having lower education levels was more common among patients with lower health literacy compared with higher health literacy levels measured with BHLS (p<0.05), REALM (p<0.05) and S‐TOFHLA (p<0.05). There was a correlation between BHLS, REALM and S‐TOFHLA results (p=0.00).

Conclusion

This is the first study that measures the health literacy levels of hospitalized patients with different health literacy tools. There was a linear relationship between the number of hospitalizations and the health literacy levels. According to our results BHLS provide consistent health literacy levels of hospitalized patients when we compare with S‐TOFHLA and REALM. It can be concluded BHLS is a reliable health literacy instrument.
Population health interventions to curb intake of sugars: Gaps in the evidence
Authors: Kirkpatrick Sharon , Maynard Merryn , Raffoul Amanda , Stapleton Jackie
Published: November 2023

There is currently considerable attention focused on the role of sugars in health, including obesity and cardiovascular disease, and accordingly, the potential for population health interventions to curb sugars consumption. A rapid scoping review of systematic reviews related to interventions targeting sugar was conducted to identify gaps in the existing evidence on the effectiveness of such interventions. The databases Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched to identify systematic review articles related to interventions to reduce sugars intake, published in English over an eleven‐year period (January 2005 to December 2015). Sixteen systematic reviews meeting the inclusion criteria were identified. The interventions included price changes, initiatives to alter specific food environments, health promotion and education, and initiatives to limit exposure to advertising. A common thread among the reviews is the limited scope of available evidence combined with the heterogeneity of methods used in existing studies, including lack of consensus on definitions and measures used for sugars intake. There is a paucity of data on how interventions are implemented and the ways in which they interact with contextual factors, which hinders conclusions about how interventions introduced in one jurisdiction might function in another. Further, little is known about differential effects of interventions for population subgroups and potential compensatory behaviours on the part of both consumers and the food industry. Given current gaps in the evidence, implementation of interventions that show promise in terms of reducing intake of sugars should be accompanied by careful monitoring to assess intended and unintended consequences, including those related to equity. The application of a systems lens might be useful for considering the broad array of factors that impact the planning, implementation, and evaluation of interventions to alter sugars consumption and associated outcomes, including body weight.

Support or Funding Information

This research was completed under contract with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes.
Impact of the National Crusade Against Hunger on Dietary Diversity in Mexican Women
Authors: del Carmen Morales‐Ruán María , Tapía Brenda Martínez , Rosas Verónica Mundo , Shamah‐Levy Teresa , Gómez‐Humarán Ignacio Mendez
Published: November 2023

Background

The National Crusade Against Hunger (CNCH by its Spanish initials) is a strategy developed by the Mexican government to combat the causes of extreme poverty and food insecurity through social programs.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of CNCH on dietary diversity in women of reproductive age.

Material and methods

Our study sample consisted of 2300 women between the ages of 12 and 49 years. Some were heads of households benefiting from CNCH; the others lived in highly and very highly marginalized municipalities not yet covered by CNCH. The study analyzed four comparison groups taking into account periods of assessment. Groups 1, CNCH_2014 (intervention), and 2, Comparison_2014 (control), were assessed in 2014; Groups 3, CNCH_2015, and 4, Comparison_2015, were assessed the following year.

We applied a questionnaire to the female heads of CNCH beneficiary households to probe the weekly frequency of their food intake (FIF). Dietary diversity was measured according to a validated index (DDI) of nine food groups: (1) cereals, (2) leguminous vegetables, (3) dairy products, (4) meats and eggs, (5) fruit and vegetables, (6) fats and oils, (7) sugar‐sweetened beverages, (8) candy and sugar and (9) eggs. In order to estimate CNCH impact on dietary diversity, we used a differences‐in‐differences estimator combined with generalized linear models.

Results

The food groups most frequently consumed during the 2014 period were cereals (89.4% of CNCH_2014 and 86.4% of Comparison_2014); fruit and vegetables and sugar‐sweetened beverages (80% of both groups); leguminous vegetables (71.9% of CNCH_2014 and 74.4% of Comparison_2014); and dairy products (66.3% of both groups). One year later, we found that 90% of women from CNCH_2015 and Comparison_2015 consumed the following groups: fruit and vegetables, cereals, sugar‐sweetened beverages and meat; 80% of both groups consumed dairy products.

After adjusting a linear model for observing CNCH impact, we found that, on average, women from CNCH_2015 consumed more food groups than those from CNCH_2014 (p<0.04). We also found that, overall, CNCH women were more likely than non‐CNCH women to consume fruit and vegetables, dairy products, leguminous vegetables and fat (p<0.05).

Conclusion

CNCH social food support programs have a positive impact on dietary diversity among beneficiaries. Programs include the Liconsa Milk Supply Program, the Food Support Program, the PROSPERA Social Inclusion Program, and food distribution programs implemented through the National System for Integral Family Development.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Ministry of Social Development
The Association between Children's Weight Status Awareness and Nutritional, Physical Activity Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior in Rural Taiwan
Authors: Yang Hsing‐Yu , Lin Yu‐Chun , Wu Hui‐Chao , Chen Hsin‐Jen
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the association between children's weight status awareness and nutritional, physical activity (PA) knowledge, attitude and behavior in rural Taiwan.

Methods

In 2016, we conducted a cross‐sectional survey on schoolchildren aged 8–10, who attended rural, remote elementary schools in northern Taiwan (n=230). Weight and height of the children were measured, and Body Mass Index was calculated. Children's weight statuses were classified in two groups as underweight/normal (non‐overweight) and overweight/obese (overweight), based on the International Obesity Task Force's definition. Their self‐perceived weight statuses were compared with the measured weight statuses. Children's knowledge, preference and behaviors related to healthy diet and PA were assessed based on a self‐administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed using linear regression models adjusted for covariates: gender, age, and children's perceived norms and environment toward healthy eating and active living (including the health behaviors of the adults at home, the expectations on the child's health behaviors by the adults at home, the teacher's expectations on child's health behaviors, and the anti‐obesogenic environment in the family.)

Results

Prevalence of overweight and obesity in this study population was 42.3%. Among the children, 87.2% perceived their weight status correctly. The results below were compared to children whose measured weight status and awareness were consistent as non‐overweight. Children who were overweight but self‐perceived as non‐overweight had lower nutritional and PA knowledge (ß:−1.76 p=0.007). Children who were measured overweight and self‐perceiving as overweight had a lower score of PA behaviors (ß:−0.83 p=0.046). Children without overweight but self‐perceived as overweight had a lower score in the preference in healthy diet and PA (ß:−5.12 p=0.005).

Conclusions

Children's self‐awareness of weight status was associated with their knowledge, preference and behavior related to healthy diet and PA. Therefore, educators should enhance the children's self‐awareness of their own weight status.

Support or Funding Information

Taiwan Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST 104‐2314‐B‐715‐006‐MY3); Mackay Medical College (RD 1020037)
Cooking with Kids: Eating the Same but Behaving Better
Authors: Kessler Heidi , Wansink Brian , Velez Argumedo Catalina M.
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, a widespread variety of cookbooks, recipes, kitchen tools and even cooking classes are available to encourage children to get involved in the kitchen. This research focuses on the benefits of involving children in meal preparation and its association with better family nutrition and different family meal routines. 154 parents of children aged three to eight participate in a self‐reported survey, in which the variables measured were how often children get involved in meal preparation, intake frequency of various foods, meal variety, and family mealtime routines. Results showed that involving children with the preparation of meals was only marginally related to how healthy they ate, partly because they often helped prepare desserts. Involving children in cooking was found to be related to various beneficial behavioural outcomes, such as the variety of foods they ate (p = .002) and several family mealtime routines like remaining at the table until everyone is through eating dinner (p = .01). In contrast to common wisdom, these findings suggest that involving children in meal preparation is related more to how families eat than to what they eat.
Maternal perception of child overweight status and its impact on parenting practices, their children's health behaviors and weight change in China
Authors: Min Jungwon , Wang Vivian HC , Xue Hong , Mi Jie , Wang Youfa
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Childhood obesity rate has been increasing rapidly in China, but understanding is limited on how parents perceive their child's weight status and how this perception affects parenting practices. This study examined maternal perception of her child's weight status, its association with demographic characteristics and its effects on subsequent parenting practices, the child's health behaviors and weight change.

Methods

Maternal and child perceptions of child's weight status and health behaviors from the China Health and Nutrition Surveys were assessed at baseline and in follow‐up surveys for 816 6–18 years old children during 2004–2011. Child weight status was defined as underweight, normal weight and overweight using the IOTF BMI cut‐offs. Associations were tested using mixed models.

Results

Overall, maternal and child perceptions of the child's weight status were consistent (weighted kappa=0.56, p<0.001). While 9.6% of mothers perceived their child as overweight, 10.9% of children did so, and 13.6% of children were indeed overweight based on measured BMI and related cut points classifying the condition. Compared to mothers who viewed their children as normal weight, mothers who thought their children were overweight were more likely to encourage their children to increase their physical activity (PA) (OR (95% CI)= 1.8 (1.0–3.3)) and to diet (OR= 4.3 (2.3–7.8)). Children perceived as overweight by their mothers were more likely to have insufficient PA (OR= 2.8 (1.6–4.7)), and gain more weight during follow‐up (beta (SE) of BMI‐Z= 1.0 (0.1), p<0.001) than children perceived by their mothers as normal weight.

Conclusions

In China, mothers who perceive their child as overweight are more likely to encourage their child to exercise and modify their diet for weight management, but this encouragement does not seem to improve child's health behaviors and weight status.

Support or Funding Information

NIH, U54 HD070725.