bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of implementation of global nutrition policies to tackle the double burden of malnutrition in Nigeria, Zambia and Indonesia
Authors: van den Assum Sylvie J. P. , Lambert Semnen R. , de Bresser Inge , Schilpzand Rutger A.
Published: June 2020

The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) is described as the co-existence of undernutrition and overweight or diet-related non-communicable diseases within a country, community or an individual (WHO). It is a major global issue, affecting approximately half of the worlds’ population. International organizations have published policy reports to function as guidelines for national implementation to tackle the double burden of malnutrition. The goal of this study is to analyze the advancement of the implementation of these recommendations in a number of middle-income countries.

Reports and recommendations on policies against DBM from 10 leading international organizations are analyzed and compared on several aspects, such as proposed measures, stakeholder involvement and target population. These organizations are UN, FAO, WHO, EAT forum, GAIN, World Food Program, World Bank, UNICEF, IFPRI and Global Panel on Agriculture and food systems for Nutrition. The level of implementation of the described policies is studied for Nigeria, Zambia and Indonesia by means of desk research and stakeholder interviews. These (semi-structured) interviews are based on the encountered information gaps within the desk research. Stakeholders were selected from a variety of organizations, such as government, NGO's, consumer organizations, science and industry in order to be able to examine the subject from different angles.

The study is still ongoing at the time of abstract submission. The (preliminary) results and conclusions will be presented and they are expected to describe per country which nutrition policies against DBM are initiated or implemented. Major learnings and best practices of these implementations will be reported and major differences and similarities between implementations in Nigeria, Zambia and Indonesia will be described and compared with the policy guidelines from the leading health organizations. These results may be used as learning when policies against DBM are newly implemented in other middle-income countries or to improve existing policies.
Sugar content of yogurt products in the UK: A comparison between 2016 and 2019
Authors: Sutton Eimear , Hancock Neil , Moore J. Bernadette
Published: June 2020

Yogurt is a staple part of children's diets and is perceived as a nutrient dense food for adults and children. However, yogurts are also a significant source of free sugars for children and are a target of the UK government's sugar reduction programme, which has recommended a 20% reduction in the sugar content of yogurt and fromage frais products by 2020. With this in mind, in November 2016, we undertook a comprehensive survey of the nutrient contents of yogurt products in UK supermarkets (Moore et al. 2018). The aim of this work was to reassess the UK supermarkets yogurt products in 2019 and determine whether the sugar contents of yogurt products have been reduced. Product data was collected from the UK's top five online supermarkets in January 2019 using the search terms ‘yogurt’ and ‘yoghurt’. Products were placed systematically into the same 8 categories used in 2016: children's, drinks, dairy alternatives, organic, natural/Greek, fruit, flavoured, desserts. Products lists were collected, refined and compared to the 2016 database. All data was double-checked independently and 5% of all entries were randomly selected and verified. GraphPad Prism V/7.0c was used for statistical analysis. After de-duplication of products found in multiple supermarkets, the 2019 database contained 893 unique products in line with the 898 surveyed in 2016. Of these, 539 (60.4%) yogurts were in common (same brand and name) with the 2016 products and 354 were new, demonstrating dynamic turnover in available yogurt products during the 26 months between surveys. In comparing the total sugar contents of the 539 paired products, notably the median [range] of total sugar contents in 2019 was significantly lower than in 2016 (10.8g/100 g [0.4, 29.5] versus 11.8g/100 g [0.1, 31.8]; P < 0.0001, Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test). Indeed, when all products were compared there was a significant reduction in the median total sugar in 2019 compared to 2016 (10.4g/100 g [0–32.9] versus 11.9g/100 g [0.1–32.6]; P < 0.0001, Mann-Whitney test). Categories showing the most improvements were children's, drinks and fruit yogurts. Fifteen percent of the 2019 products contained less than or equal to 5g/100 g sugars, considered a ‘low sugar’ product, an improvement over the 9% identified in 2016. We conclude the sugar content of UK yogurt products has reduced since the sugar reduction program was put into place in 2016. However, a larger reduction in most categories is needed in order to reach the required 20% reduction by 2020.
Nutritional quality of biscuits, breakfast cereals and sweet snacks sold in Italy: the Food Labelling of Italian Products (FLIP) study
Authors: Angelino Donato , Rosi Alice , Dall'Asta Margherita , Pellegrini Nicoletta , Martini Daniela
Published: June 2020

In Europe, the label information on food is regulated by the Reg. (EU) n.1169/2011 but many other regulated declarations (e.g. nutrition or heath claims (NHC), presence of gluten) can be provided on the pack. All this information could influence the perception of food quality and thus the consumers’ intention-to-buy. However, whether the nutritional quality of food products is comparable among products with different characteristics (e.g. presence/absence of NHC, gluten free (GF) declaration, brand) has been barely studied.

Based on these premises, the Food Labelling of Italian Products (FLIP) Study aims to systematically investigate the overall nutritional quality of the main food categories sold on the Italian market. The present work focused on sweet cereal-based products (biscuits, breakfast cereals, and sweet snacks).

Products were selected from the website of thirteen retailers present on the Italian market and data were collected from the complete images of all the sides of the pack. Then, biscuits, breakfast cereals, and sweet snacks were further sub-grouped for specific comparisons considering i) descriptive name reported, ii) presence/absence of GF declaration, iii) presence/absence of NHC declaration, iv) brand/own label. Data of energy, nutrient and salt contents per 100 grams of product for each product category were considered and comparisons among the sub-groups were performed (Mann Whitney test or Kruskal Wallis one-way ANOVA based on two or multiple independent samples, respectively) (ver. 25.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). In addition, a Principal Component Analysis was performed for all products and for each product sub-category by considering energy and nutrient contents per 100 grams of product to better describe the inter-product nutritional variability.

A total of 814 biscuits, 371 breakfast cereals and 476 sweet snacks were included. Limited differences were found between branded and own label products and between GF and gluten-containing products. Conversely, interesting differences were observed between products with and without NHC. For instance, biscuits with nutrition claims resulted with an overall lower content of total energy, total fats and sugars compared to product without these claims, in agreement with previous investigations. Finally, a high inter-product variability was observed among the different sub-categories for the three product categories.

Future researches performed within the FLIP study will allow to have a clearer picture about the nutritional quality of food products sold in Italy and to understand if specific food characteristics might be considered as a “marker” of the overall quality of food products
The utility of linking National Food Ingredient Databases to National Food Consumption surveys: a pilot study on fibre and sugar
Authors: Kelly Sarah , Moore-Heslin Aoibhinn , Yang Mengna , Buffini Maria , Kehoe Laura , Kearney John , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert , McNulty Breige , Nugent Anne
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Current dietary recommendations encourage increased fibre and reduced sugar consumption. In the UK, specific targets and benchmarks have been established for the sugar content of some foods but not for fibre. National Food Consumption Surveys provide comprehensive information of all foods consumed by representative population samples. The Irish national food surveys as completed by the Irish Universities Nutrition Alliance (IUNA) capture dietary data at brand level with all details as gathered on pack entered into a discrete but inter-linked database, the Irish National Food Ingredient Database (INFID). The aim of this study was to profile the carbohydrate quality of a convenience sub-sample of packaged foods as eaten by Irish children during the National Children's Food Survey II (2017/2018) as entered into INFID.

Materials and Methods:

All on-pack details from 385 available foods in the categories ‘white breads and rolls’; ‘brown breads and rolls’; ‘other breads and scones’; ‘ready to eat breakfast cereals (RTEBC)’; ‘biscuits’; and ‘cakes, buns and pastries’ were entered in to INFID and quality control completed. The carbohydrate profile of the products was assessed with respect to fibre labelling criteria and UK sugar guidelines and targets. SPSS Version 25 was used for all analyses.

Results:

Although 56% (n210) of all products entered were eligible to make a ‘source of’ or ‘high’ fibre claim, only 20% (n78) made such a claim. Of this, 46% stated ‘high fibre’ and 32% ‘source’, predominately in the ‘brown breads and rolls’ and ‘RTEBC’ groups. When compared to UK Department of Health guidance for ‘low’, ‘medium’ and ‘high’ sugar, 65% of all products examined (n250) were either ‘low’ or ‘medium’ sugar. Comparison of median sugar contents with Public Health England sugar reformulation targets revealed different responses in each category, with all categories other than foods deemed as “morning goods” yet to meet the 2020 target of 20% reduction in sugar content.

Discussion:

This small pilot study of a convenience sample of foods suggests that for the limited number of foods examined, for some there remains challenges to reduce sugar and increase fibre contents. Strategies such as reformulation, change in portion size, flexibility in labelling and/or a shift in sales portfolios could be considered but only alongside technological and safety considerations. Further research to broaden this analysis and to link nutrient levels as listed on pack with actual consumption patterns could help ensure all recent initiatives including reformulation are recognised.
The influence of marinade composition on pork tenderness
Authors: Tkacz Katarzyna , Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika , Wie˛k Adam
Published: June 2020

The aim of the study was to identify the effect of marinating meat on selected quality determinants. Fifty-four pork samples were prepared from longissimus dorsi muscles, each 2.5-cm-thick; they were subsequently marinated for 24 hours (n = 12) and control samples were also prepared (n = 6). The following marinades were used: base marinade (M) whose ingredients included a mixture of herbs and condiments (salt, pepper, juniper berries, rosemary, bay, pimento, garlic) and 3 liquid marinades obtained by adding to the base marinade of apple cider vinegar (MV), light beer (MB) and buttermilk (MM). In the samples pH, marinade absorption, drip loss, cooking loss, WBSF and tenderness by sensory assessment were measured(1,2).

The pH value of the material used for the study was 5.8 ± 0.02. The use of the base marinade increased the pH to 6.37 ± 0.03, whereas the liquids used in the marinades decreased the pH to 5.5 ± 0.05. Marination resulted in an increase in the material weight by 2.87 ± 0.05% (MB), 4.45 ± 0.07% (MM), 0.87 ± 0.03% (M). The addition of vinegar resulted in exuding meat juice and a decrease in the material weight by 2.53 ± 0.06% (MV). Using the base marinade reduced drip loss (0.53 ± 0.01%) compared with the control (1.37 ± 0.03%). Sour marinade (MV) increased cooking loss by 18% compared to the control, the MB and MM marinades did not affect this parameter significantly, and the base marinade had a significant effect on reducing cooking loss by 24%. Each of the marinades used had a significant effect on reducing the maximum shear strength by 31% (liquid marinades) and by as much as 46% – base marinade. This relationship was confirmed in a sensory assessment, where higher notes for tenderness were given when base marinade (9.2 ± 0.3pts), marinade with buttermilk (8.1 ± 0.2pts), and marinades with vinegar and beer (7.3 ± 0.3pts) was used compared with control samples (5.7 ± 0.4pts).

This study has shown a beneficial effect of the marinades on the tenderness of the products. The most beneficial effect on the quality determinants under study was exerted by the base marinade, which consisted of herbs and condiments only.
Vitamin D, muscle strength and physical function in UK South Asian older women
Authors: Zahra Sabeen , Corfe Bernard , Williams Elizabeth
Published: June 2020

A positive association has been reported between vitamin D status, muscle strength and physical function in older Caucasian women. However, little is known about this relationship in UK South Asian older women. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between vitamin D status, muscle strength and physical function in UK South Asian (Pakistani and Indian) older women.

One hundred and twenty community-dwelling women were recruited via visiting community centres, mosques, Indian temples (Gurdwara) and by word of mouth (between January to May 2018). Inclusion criteria were: community-dwelling, South Asian women, age 60 years and above, able to communicate effectively and able to give written or verbal consent. A general interview (demographic, anthropometric, self-reported exhaustion, health history, supplementation use/duration/dose), handgrip strength (kg), short physical performance battery (single chair stand, repeated chair stands, balance, timed up-and-go test), and blood 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D, nmol/l) concentration were performed. Dietary intake and self-reported physical activity was also assessed using multiple-pass 24-hour diet recall method and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form respectively.

Overall, 47% of participants had insufficient blood 25(OH)D concentration (< 50nmol/L) and 53% had sufficient blood 25(OH)D (≥ 50nmol/L) using the IOM classification. As expected 86% of current vitamin D supplement users had adequate vitamin D status and only 14% of women who reported current vitamin D supplement use had insufficient vitamin D status. Amongst supplement non-users 68% had insufficient vitamin D status and only 32% had adequate levels. An inverse correlation (Spearman's analysis) was found between vitamin D status and single chair stand test (sec) (r = -0.25, p = 0.006); repeated chair stand test (sec) (r = -0.29, p = 0.002) and timed up-and-go test (sec) (r = -0.20, p = 0.02). No correlation was observed between vitamin D status and handgrip strength (r = 0.09, p = 0.30).

The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is high in post-menopausal South Asian women not taking vitamin D supplements. Significant association was observed between vitamin D status and some aspects of muscle strength and physical function. We are now conducting a randomized control trial to investigate whether vitamin D supplementation may restore muscle strength and function in this population.
Impact of food-bound malabsorption on vitamin B12 status in older adults from the TUDA Ageing Cohort Study: preliminary findings
Authors: Clements M. , Ward M. , Hughes C.F. , Hoey L. , Johnston A. , Molloy A.M. , Cunningham C. , Casey M.C. , Tracey F. , O'Kane M. , Strain J.J. , McNulty H.
Published: June 2020

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common among older adults, even with dietary intakes well in excess of current recommendations. Severe clinical B12 deficiency (i.e. pernicious anaemia) leads to irreversible neurological damage, but once diagnosed, can be treated effectively with B12 injections. A much more common cause of low vitamin B12 status in older adults is food-bound malabsorption owing to atrophic gastritis. This in turn leads to reduced gastric acid secretion, thus limiting B12 absorption from food (given the essential role of gastric acid in releasing B12 from food proteins). Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs reduce gastric acid secretion, similar to atrophic gastritis, thus there is a concern that these medications may lead to vitamin B12 malabsorption. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate biomarker status of vitamin B12 in relation to atrophic gastritis and PPI usage. Data were accessed from The Trinity Ulster Department of Agriculture (TUDA) Ageing Cohort Study, a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling adults (n 5186, ≥ 60 years) recruited across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland (2008–2012). TUDA participants were classified into 3 groups; ‘healthy’ controls, atrophic gastritis and PPI users. Vitamin B12 status was assessed using a total of four biomarkers: serum total B12; serum holotranscobalamin, holoTC; plasma methylmalonic acid, MMA; plasma homocysteine. Atrophic gastritis was identified using pepsinogen analysis (via ELISA), with a pepsinogen I : II ratio of < 3 considered indicative of atrophic gastritis. Based on results from all four biomarkers, participants with atrophic gastritis were found to have significantly lower B12 status compared to healthy controls: e.g. mean (95% CI) serum total vitamin B12, 188 (156, 218) pmol/L vs. 262 (252, 272) pmol/L P < 0.001; holoTC, 46.0 (38.1, 53.8) pmol/L vs. 60.3 (57.8, 62.8) pmol/L P < 0.001; plasma MMA, 0.65 (0.52, 0.78) μmol/L vs. 0.37 (0.32, 0.42) μmol/L P = 0.001. No differences in B12 biomarker concentrations were observed between PPI users and healthy controls. Regular consumption of fortified foods (i.e. ≥ 5 portions per week) compared to non-regular consumption (i.e. 0–4 portions per week) impacted positively on B12 biomarker status in all participants. This effect however appeared insufficient to restore normal vitamin B12 status in those with atrophic gastritis. These results show that older adults with atrophic gastritis have significantly lower vitamin B12 biomarker status, particularly in those who did not regularly consume fortified foods. Further investigations of the effect of atrophic gastritis and PPI usage on B12 status are warranted.
Sleep duration and blood pressure in Spanish children with obesity
Authors: Gimeno Gloria Pérez , Rupérez Azahara Iris , Vázquez-Cobela Rocío , Leis Rosaura , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Aguilera María Concepción , Gil Ángel , Moreno Luis Alberto , Bueno Gloria
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Hypertension is a public health problem and its prevalence in children is on the rise, often continuing into adulthood and increasing the risk related cardiovascular complications. Sleep plays an essential role in children's growth and several studies suggest that insufficient sleep duration is associated with hypertension in adults. However, few studies have evaluated this association in children. Thus, the aim of the study is to ascertain whether the sleep duration is a risk factor for elevated blood pressure (BP) in children.

Methods:

We studied 776 children (5–18 years old), (46.7% male, 78.8% 5–13 years, 73.6% overweight/obesity). Weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. BP was measured with an electronic manometer to find a 25.3% of children with an elevated systolic BP (SBP, > P90th) and 14% with an elevated diastolic BP (DBP, > P90th) (Task Force 2017). Sleep duration was assessed by asking the parents “¿How many hours does your child sleep in a typical weekday?”. Weekday sleep hours were considered since they are more representative of children's routines than weekend hours. Hours were converted into a dichotomous variable based on the fulfillment or not of the “Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth recommendations”: 9–11 hours for 5- to 13-year-olds; 8–10 hours for 14- to 17-year-olds.

A spearman correlation analysis was performed between sleep duration, SBP and DBP. Then, a general linear model analysis adjusted for BMI Z-score was done to evaluate differences in SBP and DBP between children following the sleep recommendations. Analyses were stratified by sex and age range (5–13 and 14–17).

Results:

In girls 5–13 years, we found a significant negative correlation between sleep duration and body mass index (BMI) (r = -0.226, p = 0.000) and between sleep and systolic BP (r = -0.188, p = 0.001). Girls 5–13 years not following sleep recommendations showed significantly higher SBP values than those who followed the recommendations (112 ± 11 mmHg vs. 106 ± 12 mmHg, p = 0.007), independently of BMI. No significant differences were observed in girls 14–17 years nor in males.

Discussion:

In the present study, we show that girls 5–13 years with shorter sleep duration show increased SBP values independently of BMI, in contrast to previous studies which showed similar associations that disappeared when adjusting for BMI. Our results support the need for wider strategies in population education so that sleep recommendations are followed by children in the general population.
Malnutrition and obesity in community-dwelling older adults: concomitant conditions? (PEN-3S study)
Authors: Madeira Teresa , Peixoto-Plácido Catarina , Sousa-Santos Nuno , Mendonça Nuno , Santos Osvaldo , Alarcão Violeta , Nicola Paulo Jorge , Lopes Carla , Clara João Gorjão
Published: June 2020

Both malnutrition (which here refers to undernutrition) and obesity are prevalent in older adults, but they are frequently seen as mutually exclusive. In fact, a low body mass index (BMI) is one of the aetiological diagnostic criteria for malnutrition. On the contrary, the concomitant presence of malnutrition and obesity has been less studied. The aim of this study was to characterise the nutritional status of community-dwelling older adults (≥ 65 years old) living in Portugal. The study included a nationally representative sample of randomly selected community-dwelling older adults. Trained nutritionists collected data through face-to-face structured interviews regarding sociodemographic characteristics, nutritional status and anthropometric measures (namely, weight and height), among other variables of the PEN-3S study. Nutritional status was assessed by the 18-item Mini Nutritional Assessment (full MNA®), in which a lower score indicates worse nutritional status. The World Health Organisation's (WHO) BMI cut-offs for adults were followed (obesity: BMI ≥ 30Kg/m2). MNA and BMI categories estimates (95% CI) were obtained using Complex Samples analysis (SPSS® 24.0). Non-difference between sexes was analysed with Chi-square tests. Complete information was available for 1110 community-dwelling participants (mean age: 75.9 ± 8.1 years; 48.9% women; 71.4% attended school for < 5 years). According to the MNA, 0.5% (95%CI: 0.2–1.7) were classified as malnourished and 16.0% (12.9–19.7) were at risk of malnutrition. Following WHO's BMI criteria, 0.6% (0.2–1.5) had a BMI ≤ 18.5Kg/m2, 41.9% (37.9–46.0) had a BMI between 25–30Kg/m2, and 36.7% (32.8–40.9) presented a BMI ≥ 30Kg/m2. The prevalence of risk of malnutrition was significantly higher for women (20.1%, 95%CI: 15.4–25.9) than men (10.4%, 7.6–14.1; p < 0.001). The prevalence of obesity was also significantly higher for women (42.2%, 35.9–48.7 versus 29.3%, 24.8–34.2; p = 0.007). Moreover, 13.9% (9.2–20.4) were simultaneously at risk of malnutrition and had a BMI ≥ 30Kg/m2, while no one in this BMI category was classified as malnourished. Although appropriate BMI cut-offs for older adults are still uncertain, these results highlight that a high BMI does not exclude the risk of malnutrition, particularly in women. Therefore, health professionals should routinely screen for malnutrition using multi-component, validated screening tools, irrespective of the BMI. In fact, malnutrition is preventable if detected on time and effective interventions exist. The concomitant presence of malnutrition and obesity may pose additional challenges to the treatment.
Patient sources of diet and nutrition information after a cancer diagnosis
Authors: Mullee Amy , Burke Deirdre , McSharry Veronica , Dhuibhir Pauline Ui , Barrett Michelle , Roulston Fiona , Donnelly Yvonne , Higgins Keira , Gallagher Julie , Casey Louise , Stewart Gillian , O'Donoghue Niamh , O'Donoghue Aidan , Corish Clare , Walsh Declan
Published: June 2020

Cancer patients experience many diet and nutrition-related problems, which are often under-recognised and under-treated. Research suggests few healthcare professionals discuss dietary information with cancer patients. Consequently, patients may seek information from other sources. It is unknown what these information sources are or what types of advice patients obtain and follow. The aim of this study was to determine the source and type of diet information cancer patients obtain before their first dietetic assessment and the degree to which this is followed. This was a prospective, multi-center, cross-sectional observational study. Ethical approval was obtained for each centre. Consecutive cancer inpatients and outpatients were recruited for six months at seven tertiary centers. Patients were screened for eligibility. Inclusion criteria included solid tumour, over 18 years of age, new dietetic referral and ability to sign consent. Data collection was carried out by a dietitian during initial routine dietetic assessment. Participants were asked four questions about dietary advice since cancer diagnosis. To date, 74 participants (50% female) with a median age 60 (range 23–80) have been recruited. Forty percent reported weight loss of ≥ 5%. The median time from diagnosis to initial dietetic assessment was 3 months (range 0–242). Patients who obtained advice did so from several sources (median 2 sources per patient, range 0–6) prior to dietetic referral. In rank order these were; 1) family or friend (n = 31), 2) health professional (n = 24), 3) online forums or websites (n = 16) and 4) media (n = 14). Twenty-one (28%) had received no dietary advice. The most frequent advice obtained related to avoidance of certain foods; particularly dairy, meat and sugar. Fruit, vegetables, protein, juices and wholegrain were advised. Fifty-one percent followed the advice fully and 4% partially. Seven expressed disappointment at not having a dietetics referral earlier and identified the need for the hospital “to introduce good information early”. In conclusion, the majority of dietary and nutritional advice prior to dietetic referral came from friends, family, media and online forums and websites. Most advice related to the avoidance and/or promotion of particular foods. Cancer patients want dietary advice from dietitians at diagnosis to prevent unnecessary avoidance of certain foods and to reduce the risk of unintentional weight loss.
The relationship between p53, Bcl2 proteins and histological grade in colorectal adenocarcinoma associated with type 2 diabetes and obesity
Authors: Horaţiu-Cristian Popescu-Vâlceanu , Mihai Stoicea , Valentin Enache , Petronel Mustatea , Emilia Rusu , Ramona Drăguţ , Gabriela Radulian
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The aim of our study was to evaluate the expression of p53 protein in colorectal adenocarcinoma in diabetic (type 2) obese vs non-obese vs and to analyse p53, Bcl2 proteins expression in type 2 diabetic vs non-diabetic patients based on histological grade.

Material and Methods

In a retrospective study we analyzed all hospitalized patients with colorectal cancer between 2011–2015 in Bucharest Emergency Hospital, according to International Statistical Classification of Diseases classification and Related Health Problems 10th Revision.

The p53 and Bcl2 proteins expressions were investigated by automated immunohistochemistry BenchMark XT Ventana platform using dual Bcl2-p53 protocol in the Histopathology Department of the Central Reference Laboratory Synevo.

Results

We identified in order of appearance only the cases with appropriate inclusion criteria, 95 cases of colorectal adenocarcinoma: 52 were type 2 diabetic patients (33males /19 females, mean age 70.2 years) and 43 non-diabetics (30 males /13 females mean age 69.5 years). There were 15vs2 obese subjects in diabetic/non-diabetic patients compared to 37vs41 with normal weight.

Our data showed that obese diabetic patients associate more frequently the overexpression of p53 protein in colorectal adenocarcinoma in the 80% (12/15 of cases) comparative with non-obese diabetic patients 40.5% (15/37 cases) or non-diabetics and non-obese controls 36.6% (15/41 cases p = 0.024).

Regarding histological grade, diabetic patients associated low-grade colorectal tumors (78.8% of cases) compared with non-diabetics (58.1% of cases) and non-diabetic patients associated high-grade colorectal tumors increased (41.9%) compared to diabetics (21.2%), with statistical significance (p = 0.043).

Diabetics compared with non-diabetics associated an oversexpression of all immunophenotypes in the low histological grade colorectal adenocarcinoma: Bcl2-/p53- immunophenotype in 62% vs 53% of cases (p = 0.836); for Bcl2 + / p53- immunophenotype in 67% vs 43% of cases (p = 0.064); for Bcl2-/p53 + immunophenotype in 77% vs 71% of cases (p = 0.489) and for Bcl2 + /p53 + immunophenotype in 100% vs33% of cases (p = 0.333).

Discussion

It is known that the protein p53 is a powerful transcriptor factor acting as checkpoint controlling the differentiation of the various cells including adipocytes and also possible enterocytes (explaining the higher frequency of colorectal cancer which has been associated with the increased proliferation of adipocytes characterizing the obesity).Due to the protection conferred by a normal p53 protein its upregulation could be a new target for the treatment of obesity. Interesting our work revealed that diabetic patients associated low-grade colorectal adenocarcinoma with an oversexpression of all immunophenotypes.
Feasibility of testing the medium-term impact of inulin on phenolic acids bioavailability in healthy overweight individuals
Authors: Cong Wenjuan , Swailes Cara , Martiniuc Mircea , Talib Wardah , Mullen William , Preston Tom , Morrison Douglas J. , Combet Emilie , Edwards Christine
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Interactions between polyphenols and non-digestible carbohydrates (NDC) can impact on polyphenolic metabolites bioavailability, including phenolic acids. The BLEND2 trial (NCT03840746) aims to study longer-term interactions of a flavonoid-rich food with/without NDC on microbiota metabolites and cardiometabolic markers. Trial feasibility using a bespoke food was tested.

Material and Methods

The soup was developed locally containing cherry tomatoes, tomato puree, red onion, fresh lovage, with/without the NDC inulin (10g), but improved and processed with Campden BRI, Chipping Campden, UK. The final product (~400g/ tin) was evaluated with VAS scales (0–10) for appearance, smell, taste and overall palatability, and flavonoid content evaluated using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The 3-arm parallel randomised blinded design (control soup, soup + inulin, habitual diet control) recruited self-reported healthy participants (BMI > 25, 40–70y) with urine, blood, faecal samples collected at baseline, 3-week, 6-weeks.

Results

Both soups scored similarly (n = 8 testers) for visual appeal (with inulin 5.1 ± 2.1; without 4.5 ± 2.0); smell (with 5.9 ± 1.7; without 5.4 ± 0.8); taste (with 6.6 ± 2.0; without 5.5 ± 2.3), aftertaste (with 6.3 ± 2.9; without 5.4 ± 2.3) and overall palatability (with 7.0 ± 1.9; without 6.1 ± 2.1).

The soups (A&B), 1 tin/day, provide 68.5 ± 10.9 mg total flavonoids (soup A n = 3, quercetin equivalents) and 74.0 ± 16.1 mg (soup B, n = 3): quercetin (A 1.2 ± 0.1 mg; B 1.3 ± 0.6 mg), quercetin-4-glucoside (A 3.9 ± 1.0 mg; B 4.1 ± 1.9 mg), quercetin-3-rutinoside (A 23.0 ± 3.2 mg; B 20.5 ± 1.0 mg), quercetin 3,4-diglucosides (A 40.5 ± 6.9 mg; B 48.2 ± 14.9 mg).

Following notes of interest (n = 415), n = 111 attended screening, n = 34 did not proceed (medications, opt-out; 31%). Participants (n = 77) are mostly British (79%), median age 56y (IQR 49-62) with a median BMI of 31 (IQR 28-35). Dropout was low (12%) and early in the study (personal issues, n = 2; gastrointestinal issues, n = 2; failure to comply with protocol, n = 2; acid reflux symptoms, n = 1; dislike of test food, n = 1). Adverse events included acid reflux/heartburn (n = 4), gastrointestinal distress (n = 3) accounting for 3 drop-outs.

To date, urine, blood and faecal samples (study day or day + 1) were collected at all timepoints, for all participants. Participation (soup arms) has not led to body weight or blood lipids changes compared to control group.

Discussion

The protocol for this 6-week trial has proved feasible with lower dropout than expected. Soup flavonoid content representing ~16% of average European flavonoid intakes, with inulin (10g) half the UK daily fibre intake. The soup was well accepted with few reports of adverse issues. Recruitment in this population is challenging, due to high levels of medication and ill health.
Exercise and human gut microbiota: a systemic review
Authors: Xu Huiwen , Álvarez Lourdes Ortiz , Martínez-Téllez Borja , Ruiz Jonatan Ruiz
Published: June 2020

Background:

Eubiosis is the intestinal microbial ecosystem balance between human and microorganisms, whereas a disbalance in this intestinal microbial ecosystem is known as dysbiosis. The relationship between exercise with gut microbiota in humans is poorly studied, although it seems that one of the possible ways to restore eubiosis could be via exercise. This systematic review aimed to examine the scientific literature available on the influence of exercise in the gut microbiota of healthy adults.

Methods:

A systematic and comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science (WOS) from their inception to April 2019. Search terms used were: “Gastrointestinal Microbiome”, “Fecal Microbiota”, “Cecal Microbiota”, “Faecal Microbiota, “Exercises”, “Training” and “Human”.

Results:

The initial search retrieved 218 articles and 15 met the inclusion criteria of which 9 were cross-sectional, 3 acute and 3 chronic exercise interventions. Higher levels of physical activity or VO2max were positively associated with alpha-diversity in the 85.7% of the cross-sectional studies (n = 6). We found controversial findings between levels of physical activity or VO2max with Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria phylum over cross-sectional studies. However, some studies found that higher levels of physical activity or VO2max were positively related with Verrumicrobia and Actinobacteria, as well as their levels increased after the exercise interventions studies. Furthermore, higher levels of physical activity or VO2max were positively related with short-chain-fatty-acids (SCFAs), as well as their levels increased after a chronic intervention.

Discussion:

The muscle-gut axis is based on the contraction of skeletal muscle during exercise due to the release of myokines. This myokines that seem to play a role in mediating the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion in the gut during exercise. GLP-1 is one of the key incretins involved in the whole-body metabolism. On other hand, the gut-muscle axis, relies that the gut microbiota is able to produce SCFAs, which are mediator of mitochondrial energy metabolism in skeletal muscles.

Conclusion:

Higher levels of physical activity or VO2max are positively related with higher levels of alpha diversity and some phylum in healthy adults. Moreover, both acute and chronic exercises only influence some phylum. However, the high heterogeneity between studies hampers to draw stronger conclusions. Therefore, further studies are needed to understand the possible mechanism about how exercise could affect healthy human gut microbiota.
Piceatannol-mediated alteration of amyloidogenesis in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells treated with amyloid-beta
Authors: Yang Yun Jung , Cha Hee Yun , Yang Soo Jin
Published: June 2020

High glucose condition impairs neuronal integrity and function by regulating amyloidogenesis and neuroinflammation. Here, we pursue to investigate whether high glucose condition leads impairments in neuronal integrity/function by inducing amyloidogenesis and neuroinflammation, and whether piceatannol (PIC) restores high glucose condition-induced deteriorations in neuronal cells. High glucose condition was induced by maintaining SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in 25 mM glucose. In addition, amyloid-beta was applied to make the cells having amyloidogenesis-mediated deleterious alterations. Cells were maintained in low glucose (2.5 mM glucose) or high glucose (25 mM glucose) condition. And, two doses (10 and 20 μM) of PIC and/or 10 μM of amyloid-beta were treated in a subset of cells for 24 h. There were no significant differences in cell morphology and cell viability among groups. PIC treatment did not show cell toxicity based on cell viability assessed by PrestoBlue assay. High concentration of glucose and amyloid-beta treatments increased amyloid-beta concentrations in cell lysates and conditioned media, which were reduced by PIC. 10 μM PIC treatment for 24 h decreased amyloid precursor protein (APP), beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme-1, presenilin (PS) 1 and tau. Among analyzed inflammatory markers, interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha were reduced in conditioned media by 10 μM PIC administration for 24 h. These data indicate that high glucose condition may result in excessive levels of amyloidogenesis and neuroinflammation as well as subsequent changes in neuronal integrity/function, and that PIC treatment may ameliorate the deleterious consequences from high glucose and amyloid-beta treatments.
Dietary composition is associated with one-carbon metabolites and B-vitamin status in patients with stable angina – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lysne Vegard , van Parys Anthea , Olsen Thomas , Marienborg Ingvild , Laupsa-Borge Johnny , Haugsgjerd Teresa Risan , Ueland Per Magne , Dierkes Jutta , Nygård Ottar
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α (PPARα) is a known regulator of lipid and energy metabolism. In animal experiments of PPARα activation, we have reported on altered plasma concentration of metabolites related to one-carbon metabolism and B-vitamin status. Several of these metabolites, e.g. homocysteine and dimethylglycine, have been associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Diet can influence one-carbon metabolism, and this may partly be mediated through altered PPARα activity as dietary fatty acids can activate PPARα. As diet is a modifiable life style factor, the aim of this investigation is to explore potential associations between dietary composition and plasma concentration of one-carbon metabolites and markers of B-vitamin status.

Materials and methods:

The study population consisted of 1977 patients with stable angina (geometric mean age 61 years, 80% male) from the Western Norway B-vitamin Intervention Trial (WENBIT), who completed a self-administered food frequency questionnaire at baseline. Data on outcome variables were obtained from the baseline blood samples (35% fasting). Outcome variables of interest were metabolites related to one-carbon metabolism and B-vitamin status. Cross-sectional associations between protein, carbohydrate and fat intake with the outcome metabolites were analysed with linear regression, adjusted for age, sex, fasting status, BMI and reported energy intake. Estimates are given as % change in the outcome variable per isoenergetic increment of 1 energy % (E%) in the exposure nutrient.

Results:

The average distribution [95% prediction interval] of energy intake (E%) in the population was 48.5 (37.1, 63.4) from carbohydrate, 31.4 (21.9, 44.9) from fat and 16.5 (12.2, 22.3) from protein.

The strongest associations were seen for increasing protein intake, while the associations with fat and carbohydrate intake were weaker. The most pronounced associations (% change [95% confidence interval]) with increasing protein intake were higher cobalamin (2.9 [2.1, 3.7]), PLP (2.7 [1.7, 3.7]) and riboflavin (2.3 [1.0, 3.6]), and lower tHcy (-1.4 [-1.9, -0.9]) and MMA (-1.3 [-1.9, -0.7]).

Discussion:

The current observations indicate that dietary macronutrient composition may influence plasma concentration of one-carbon metabolites and markers of B-vitamin status. The strongest associations are observed with increasing protein intake, but elucidating the importance of the nutrient substituted remains. Whether the observed associations are due to macronutrients per se, or reflect differences in food choices/nutrient intakes, or effects on physiological factors, i.e. inflammation or PPARα activation, is not known.
Processed meat intake in relation to semen quality indicators among men attending a fertility clinic
Authors: Danielewicz Anna , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna , Morze Jakub
Published: June 2020

It is estimated that in Central and Eastern Europe 8–12% of men are infertile, and in the case of 20% of infertile couples in the region, indicates a 56% part of the malefactor in the occurrence of infertility. Numerous studies have shown that a healthy diet with a high intake of fish and seafood, poultry, vegetables, fruits, legumes, through the high content of antioxidants are associated with better parameters of semen quality and reduced risk of asthenozoospermia. Men's diets may affect spermatogenesis as reflected in semen quality indicators, but the literature on the relation between meat intake and semen quality is limited. Our objective was to prospectively examine the relation between meats including red, poultry, proceesed and fish and indicators of semen quality. Men in subfertile couples presenting for evaluation at the Olsztyn Hospital Fertility Center were invited to participate in an ongoing study of environmental factors and fertility. This cross-sectional study was carried out in 208 men aged 18–55 years from Northern-Eastern Poland. Semen samples were collected at the clinic and analyses were performed by an experienced technician. Semen microscopic measurements were determined with the use of computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) and evaluated according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. A total of men completed a validated food-frequency questionnaire and subsequently provided semen samples. We used linear mixed regression models to examine the relation between meat intake and semen quality indicators (total sperm count, sperm concentration, progressive motility, morphology, and semen volume) while adjusting for potential confounders. After adjustment for age, BMI, physical activity, residence place and education, one serving increase in intake of processed meat was associated with a 56% higher risk of abnormal progressive sperm motility (OR = 1.56 95%CI:1.09–2.21). Consuming processed meat may have a negative impact on sperm counts and morphology. Potentially, these products may be a significant source of saturated and trans fatty acids, xenobiotics, mainly xenoestrogen, and steroids. Is need to clarify the potential effect of meat products, especially processed meat, on male reproductive potential in RCTs or longitudinal studies. Future findings may be useful to establish a more precise recommendation connected with red and processed meat intake in the context of reproductive health.
Identifying novel metabolite biomarkers of adherence to a cluster analysis-derived healthy dietary pattern
Authors: Macias Shirin , Green Brian D. , Woodside Jayne V.
Published: June 2020

The MEDDINI intervention study investigated how advice improved the adoption of a Mediterranean diet (MD) in cardiovascular disease patients. Earlier research profiled the levels of blood metabolites in MEDDINI participants, in the process discovering a number dietary biomarkers indicative of a MD. However, a potential limitation of this approach is that MD scores are semi-quantitative, and don't reflect the absolute amounts of food consumed. Therefore, the present study identified distinct dietary patterns based on quantified food diary data from 58 MEDDINI participants by applying k-means clustering analysis. Previously measured blood metabolites (90) using targeted and untargeted methods were then assessed for their performance as dietary biomarkers. After careful standardisation (z-scores), optimisation and cross-validation dietary data were reduced to 6 specific food groups and this led to the formation of two clusters. Cluster 1 included participants who had the lowest intakes of fruit and vegetables, legumes, fish and whole grain cereals and the highest intake of meat and sweet foods (including carbonated drinks). Cluster 2 comprised the participants with highest intake of fruit and vegetables, legumes, fish and whole grain cereals and the lowest intake of meat and sweet foods (including carbonated drinks). Discriminatory metabolites (p derived from untargeted analysis included Citric acid, Tyrosine, Malonate, Pyroglutamic acid, Succinate, Betaine, L-asparagine and Fumaric acid which were significantly increased in cluster 2, and 2-Hydroxybutyric acid and Pyruvic acid which were significantly decreased in cluster 2. Targeted biomarker analysis showed 8 discriminatory metabolites which were significantly (p increased in cluster 2. These were Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha-Carotene, beta-Carotene, beta-Cryptoxanthin, Vitamin C, Lutein, alpha-Linolenic acid and Lycopene. Conversely Osbond acid, Cholesterol and Dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) were significantly lower in cluster 2. Metabolites significantly correlated with some of the 6 groups in the clusters. For example, Citric acid, Betaine and Vitamin C positively correlated with combined fruit, fruit juice and vegetable intake: (r = 0.20, p = 0.018; r = 0.20, p = 0.02 and r = 0.34, p = 5.7E-5 respectively). DHA, alpha-Carotenoid and beta-Carotenoid significantly correlated with fish intake (r = 0.58, p = 1.94E-13; r = 0.40, p = 2E-6 and r = 0.30, p = 3.5E-4 respectively). The present study demonstrates the utility of clustering analysis for effectively assessing adherence to healthy dietary patterns and the discovery of novel dietary biomarkers.