Assessment of Genetic Variation and Character Association among Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) Inbred Lines

In this study, forty-six sweet corn inbred lines were evaluated to assess the variability and association among 11 yield and yield attributing traits at College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU. The traits plant height, ear height, cob length, cob girth, number of rows per ear, number of kernels per row, cob weight with husk and cob weight without husk have shown moderate to high range of PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance over mean displaying the importance of these traits in selecting superior sweet corn inbreds. Critical analysis of results obtained from correlation and path analysis revealed that the traits cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows per ear and cob weight without husk posses high positive significant associations and positive direct effects. From this study it was concluded that cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows per ear and cob weight without husk are the key traits to be given prime importance during selection for further improvement of production as they exhibited significant positive direct effects with cob weight with husk.

Relevance of Chemical Constituents in Conferring Tolerance to Yellow Stem Borer, Scirpophaga incertulas Wlk in Rice

Tolerant rice accessions were identified from a field study involving 196 rice accessions at Pandit Jawaharlal of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal for rice yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas. Tolerant accessions in field study along with the susceptible check (TN1) were considered for analyzing biochemical parameters viz., chlorophyll content, total sugars, reducing sugars, total phenols, total soluble protein, and proline. Higher amounts of total phenols, moderate chlorophyll content, and lesser amounts of sugars were identified as the factors imparting resistance against this pest in the resistant entries. The correlation among the infestation percentage and biochemical parameters, revealed strong positive correlation between total sugars and infestation percentage; strong negative correlation between total phenols and infestation percentage implying the role of phenols in plant defense against rice yellow stem borer.

Producción de biomasa y caracterización química de Lentinula edodes cultivado en biorreactor bajo diferentes condiciones

La ingeniería bioquímica juega un papel importante en el desarrollo tecnológico de los procesos de obtención ya sea de cuerpos fructíferos de setas con potencial medicinal para el consumo directo, o en la fabricación de nutracéuticos y/o suplementos dietarios. Esta investigación implementó una metodología en biorreactor para el cultivo del hongo macromiceto Lentinula edodes, conocido comúnmente como Shiitake, con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto que tienen la velocidad de agitación y el flujo de aire en la producción de biomasa y de metabolitos de mediana y baja polaridad. Se determinó que el rendimiento y la productividad más altos de producción de biomasa se logra a unas condiciones de 80 rpm y 0,50 vvm obteniendo 0,0260 g/g y 0,00433 g/L*h respectivamente. Igualmente, en cuanto a la composición de esta biomasa, se concluyó que se genera un máximo contenido de proteína (33,4% del micelio liofilizado) a unas condiciones de 140 rpm y 0,75 vvm, los esteroles alcanzaron un porcentaje de 89,32% del extracto en DCM a 80 rpm y 0,5 vvm. Los resultados del análisis por GC-MS confirman la amplia variedad de compuestos que se pueden obtener a partir de un cultivo en biorreactor del hongo Lentinula edodes.

Biochemical engineering plays an important role in the technological development of the processes for obtaining either mushroom fruiting bodies with medicinal potential for direct consumption, or in the manufacture of nutraceuticals and/or dietary supplements. This research implemented a methodology in a bioreactor for the cultivation of the Lentinula edodes macromycete fungus, commonly known as Shiitake, with the aim of evaluating the effect of agitation speed and air flow on the production of biomass and metabolites of median and low polarity. Thus, it was found that the highest yield and productivity of biomass production is achieved at conditions of 80 rpm and 0,50 vvm, obtaining 0,0260 g/g and 0,00433 g/L*h respectively. Likewise, in the study of the content of metabolites it was concluded that for the protein 33,4% of the lyophilized mycelium was reached at conditions of 140 rpm and 0,75 vvm, the sterols reached a percentage of 89,32% of the extract. in DCM at 80 rpm and 0,5 vvm. The results of the GC-MS analysis confirm the wide variety of compounds that can be obtained from a bioreactor culture of the Lentinula edodes fungus.

Research progress on the relationship between free sugars and caries / 口腔疾病防治

@#Caries is a chronic infectious disease that occurs in the hard tissues of teeth. The interaction of oral microorganisms, host, food and time leads to the occurrence and progression of caries. Free sugar is an important food factor in the occurrence of dental caries. This paper reviews the research progress on the relationship between free sugar and caries in recent years, providing a reference for further clarifying the mechanism of the occurrence and progression of caries caused by free sugar and exploring the methods of caries prevention. The cariogenic mechanism of free sugar is multifaceted. Free sugar can not only be used by oral microorganisms in dental plaque biofilms to produce acid and synthesize intracellular and extracellular polysaccharides but also cause an imbalance in oral microecology and enhance gene expression related to the cariogenic toxicity of oral microorganisms. Based on the correlation between free sugar and caries, it is important to limit the intake amount and frequency of free sugar to prevent caries. This can be achieved mainly by formulating public health policies for reducing sugar, creating a low-sugar family environment with good eating habits, using sugar substitutes and using fluoride. There are few studies on the relationship between free sugar and oral microecology. More research is needed to better understand the effect of free sugar on oral microecology and its mechanism and to validate the caries-preventing effect of various sugar reduction measures. We believe such studies would open up new avenues for the effective prevention of caries.

Consumption of free sugars and dietary sources in the diet of university students according to socioeconomic and lifestyle factors / Consumo de açúcar livre e fontes dietéticas na dieta de estudantes universitários segundo fatores socioeconômicos e de estilo de vida

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the consumption of free sugars and associated factors in the diet of university students entering full-time courses at a public university in Mato Grosso. Methods Cross-sectional study with students aged 16 to 26 years in the first semester of 2016, 2017, and 2018. Average sugar consumption was estimated using a 24-hour diet recall, evaluating the percentage of free sugars in total energy intake and the prevalence of consumption greater than 10.0% of total energy intake, according to socioeconomic and lifestyle variables, stratified by sex, and the foods that most contributed to its consumption. Results A total of 1,063 students were evaluated, the percentage of free sugars in the students' diet was on average 14.3% among men and 15.4% among women, with the prevalence of consumption above 10.0% also being higher among women (72.6 vs. 66.6%). There was a direct relationship between the participation of free sugars in the highest tertiles of energy intake, and the main food groups sources of sugar were desserts, juices, soft drinks, and coffee. There was a significant association between courses outside the health sciences, tobacco use, and unsatisfactory meal consumption profile with higher consumption of free sugars among women. Among men, sugar consumption was higher among those who were not overweight compared to those who were overweight. Conclusion The consumption of free sugars is high among university students, being associated with higher energy consumption, especially for sweetened beverages.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o consumo de açúcar livre e os fatores associados na alimentação de universitários ingressantes em cursos de período integral em uma universidade pública de Mato Grosso. Métodos Estudo transversal com estudantes de 16 a 26 anos de idade no primeiro semestre de 2016, 2017 e 2018 (n=1.063). O consumo médio de açúcar foi estimado por meio de recordatório de 24 horas, sendo avaliada a participação do açúcar livre na ingestão energética total e a prevalência de participação do consumo superior a 10,0% da ingestão energética, segundo variáveis socioeconômicas, de estilo de vida e fatores dietéticos, , estratificadas por sexo. Resultados A participação do açúcar livre na dieta foi, em média, de 14,3% entre os homens e 15,4% entre as mulheres, sendo a prevalência de consumo acima de 10,0% também maior entre as mulheres (72,6 vs. 66,6%). Foi maior a participação do açúcar livre nos tercis mais elevados de ingestão energética, sendo verificado que os principais grupos de alimentos fontes foram sobremesas, sucos, refrigerantes e café. Entre as mulheres, verificou-se maior consumo de açúcar livre entre aquelas que faziam uso de tabaco e que apresentavam perfil de consumo de refeições insatisfatório. Por outro lado, menor consumo de açúcar livre foi observado entre as estudantes da área da saúde. Entre os homens, o consumo de açúcar livre foi maior entre aqueles sem excesso de peso, comparados aos com excesso. Conclusão O consumo de açúcar livre foi elevado entre estudantes universitários, sendo maior entre os estudantes com maior consumo energético. Verificou-se que as bebidas adoçadas estiveram entre as principais fontes.

Early-life sugar consumption and breastfeeding practices: a multicenter initiative in Latin America

Abstract The aim of this multicenter study was to explore the early-life sugar consumption and dietary practices in Latin America as well as to investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and the age at which foods and beverages with added sugars are introduced. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 805 1- to 3-year-old children from 10 Latin American countries, as a complementary study to the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region (OICAL). A Food Frequency Questionnaire previously tested in different countries was applied to children's mothers and data on breastfeeding and age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was collected. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis test and Poisson regression with robust variance, with the calculation of crude and adjusted mean ratios (MR) and 95% of confidence intervals (CI). The average age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was 10.1 months (95%CI 9.7-10.4) and 9.6 (95%CI 9.2-9.9) months, respectively, with a significant variation between countries (p < 0.001). The average daily frequency of sugary foods-beverages was 3.3 times per day (95%CI 3.1-3.5) and varied significantly between countries (p = 0.004). Breastfeeding duration of over six months was associated with an increase in the age of introduction of sweet drinks (16%; MR 1.16; 95%CI 1.05-1.28) and foods (21%; MR 1.21; 95%CI 1.10-1.33). In conclusion, most children from vulnerable settings in Latin America start consuming sugary products in the first year of life and a high frequency of consumption was reported through early childhood. Additionally, breastfeeding contributes to a delay in the introduction of sugary products.

Association between Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescents and Daily Consumption of Soft Drinks: a Brazilian National Study

Abstract Background: Cardiovascular risk in adolescence is a public health problem that has grown along with the increase in soft drink consumption. Objective: To investigate the association between cardiovascular risk factors and daily consumption of soft drinks in Brazilian adolescents. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, national, school-based study of 36,956 Brazilian adolescents aged 12 to 17 years. Daily soft drink consumption was estimated using a 24-hour dietary recall. Cardiovascular risk was categorized as overweight, obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. The survey command of Stata 14.0® was used to analyze data from a complex sample. The chi-square test was used to assess differences in soft drink consumption and other variables in the descriptive analysis. The odds ratio of cardiovascular risk factors and their respective 95% confidence intervals were estimated, considering sociodemographic and behavioral variables in the Mantel-Haenszel model. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Daily consumption of soft drinks was common among adolescents. A daily serving ≥ 450 mL was significantly associated with overweight and hypertension. Results associated with the consumption of regular soft drinks show the possibility of reverse causality. Consumption of diet soft drinks in adolescence should be considered a cardiovascular risk factor. Conclusion: Daily consumption of soft drinks can be understood as a relevant risk factor in the epidemiological scenario. Improper eating habits are multifactorial in nature and need to be better understood in the context of adolescent health and further explored in national surveys.

The effect of coconut sugar on cariogenic traits in Streptococcus mutans / Efeito do Açúcar de Coco na cariogenicidade do Streptococcus mutans

Aim: The consumption of foods rich in sugar is linked to several non-communicable diseases, including dental caries. Coconut sugar has systemic benefits due to its lower glycemic indexes (GI) than other table sugars. However, there is currently no data regarding its ca-riogenic potential. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of coconut sugar on acidogenicity and adhesion of Streptococcus mutans in vitro, compared to sugarcane products. Materials and methods: Aliquots of cultu-res of S. mutans UA159 were resuspended in a buffer solution enriched with coconut sugar, crystal sugar (refined sugar), and minimally processed sugarcane (demerara light brown sugar and maskavo dark brown sugar), as well as positive (sucrose) and negative con-trols. The decrease in pH and its corresponding area under the curve (AUC; cm2) were evaluated for the analysis of acidogenicity. S.mutans was incubated in BHI supplemented with each sugar and the percentages of microbial adhesion were calculated. After testing data normality, the one-way ANOVA test (Bonferroni post hoc) was used to compare the AUC and the pro-portion of adhesion of each group. Results: Regarding the acidogenic potential, statistical differences were found only between the negative control versus all other groups (p<0.001). Likewise, no significant difference in adhesion was found between the tested sugars (p>0.05). Discussion: Although the tested sugars are marketed as "healthy products," their amount and frequency of usage should be controlled. Conclusion: Coconut su-gar presents a similar cariogenic potential to that of sugarcane products when acidogenicity and adhesion are evaluated. Coconut sugar is not indicated as a substitute for sucrose in the control of cariogenic activity.

Objetivo: O consumo de alimentos ricos em açúcar está associado a diversas doenças não transmissíveis, incluindo a doença cárie. O açúcar de coco tem benefícios sistêmi-cos devido aos seus índices glicêmicos (IG) mais baixos do que outros açúcares de mesa. No entanto, atualmente não há dados sobre seu potencial cariogênico. Esse estu-do teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do açúcar do coco na acidogenicidade e adesão de Streptococcus mutans in vitro, em comparação com produtos derivados da cana--de-açúcar. Materiais e métodos: alíquotas de culturas de S. mutans UA159 foram suspensas em solução tampão enriquecida com açúcar de coco, açúcar cristal (açúcar refinado) e cana-de-açúcar minimamente processada (açúcar mascavo demerara claro e açúcar mascavo), além de controles positivo (sacarose) e negativo. A diminuição do pH e correspondente área sob a curva (AUC; cm2) fo-ram avaliadas na análise de acidogenicidade. S. mutansfoi incubado em BHI suplementado com cada tipo de açúcar e as porcentagens de adesão microbiana foram calculadas. Após testar a normalidade dos dados, o teste ANOVA de uma via (Bonferroni post hoc) foi utilizado para comparar a AUC e a proporção de adesão de cada grupo. Resultados: Em relação ao potencial acidogênico, diferenças estatísticas foram encontradas apenas entre o controle negativo versus todos os outros grupos (p <0,001). Não foi encontrada diferença significativa na adesão en-tre os açúcares testados (p> 0,05). Discussão: Apesar dos açúcares testados serem comercializados como "produtos saudáveis", sua quantidade e frequência de consumo deve ser controlada. Conclusão: O açúcar do coco apresenta potencial cariogênico semelhante à dos produtos da cana-de-açúcar quanto a acidogenicidade e a adesão. O açúcar de coco não é indicado como substituto da sacarose no controle da atividade cariogênica.

Effect of waterlogging on physiological traits and yield in black gram (Vigna mungo L.) in field condition

Waterlogging is an important abiotic factor affecting crop productivity worldwide. Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) is very sensitive to waterlogged conditions. A field experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design to evaluate three black gram genotypes for waterlogging tolerance. Stress was imposed by maintaining the water level above the soil surface for 10 days after 30 days of sowing. Different physiological parameters including chlorophyll (Chl), chlorophyll fluorescence, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), sugars, along with the yield per plant and thousand grain weight (TW) were recorded in control and stressed plants. Results showed that NDVI, Chl, chlorophyll fluorescence, sugars, seed yield and TW reduced significantly during stress. Stress susceptibility index (SSI) for grain yield varied from 0.32 to 2.38. Linear correlation study showed that SSI was negatively correlated with NDVI (0.43),Chl (0.68) and TW (0.42) and grain yield (0.96). NDVI and sugars were correlated to TW under stress. IC530491 and IC559933 (SSI < 0.5) were waterlogging tolerant under field conditions. The study concluded that identified black gram lines may be utilized as trait donors in breeding program.

Consumo de alimentos açucarados e qualidade do sono no primeiro ano de vida: dados de uma coorte de nascimentos no nordeste do Brasil / Consumo de alimentos azucarados y calidad del sueño en el primer año de vida: datos de una cohorte de nacimiento en el noreste de Brasil / Consumption of sugary foods and quality of sleep in the first year of life: data from a birth cohort in northeastern Brazil

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar a duração do sono (DS), a frequência de despertares noturnos (DN) e o consumo de alimentos açucarados no primeiro ano de vida e verificar a associação entre o consumo desses alimentos e a má qualidade do sono. Métodos: a população do estudo foi composta de 179 crianças integrantes de uma coorte de nascimentos de Rio Largo-AL. As mães foram questionadas sobre a oferta regular de alimentos açucarados (açúcar/farinhas de cereais instantâneas com açúcar/bebidas açucaradas/doces) e o sono foi investigado pelo questionário traduzido e validado Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire. Foram considerados indicadores de má qualidade do sono DS<12h e DN>2. Os testes de qui-quadrado de Pearson e exato de Fisher foram adotados para verificar associações entre o consumo de açucarados e a má qualidade do sono aos seis e 12 meses (p<0,05). Resultados: mais da metade das crianças apresentou DS<1 2h (60,3%) e cerca de » DN>2. O consumo regular de pelo menos uma das categorias de açucarados foi verificado entre 50,6, 91,1 e 100% das crianças aos três, seis e 12 meses de idade, respectivamente. Não foram encontradas associações entre o consumo desses alimentos e os indicadores de má qualidade de sono. Conclusão: o consumo de açucarados e a má qualidade de sono foram frequentes em nosso estudo, no entanto, não se identificou associação entre as variáveis. Mais investigações são necessárias para elucidar como o sono e a alimentação se inter-relacionam e se potencializam mutuamente como fatores determinantes do crescimento e desenvolvimento de lactentes.

RESUMEN Objetivo: investigar la duración del sueño (DS), la frecuencia de despertares nocturnos (DN) y el consumo de alimentos azucarados en el primer año de vida y verificar la asociación entre el consumo de estos alimentos y la mala calidad del sueño. Métodos: la población de estudio consistió en 179 niños de una cohorte de nacimiento en Rio Largo-AL. Se preguntó a las madres sobre el suministro regular de alimentos azucarados (azúcar / harinas de cereales instantáneas con azúcar / bebidas endulzadas / dulces) y se investigó el sueño mediante el cuestionario traducido y validado BriefInfantSleepQuestionnaire. Fueron considerados indicadores de mala calidad del sueño DS <12h y DN> 2. Se utilizaron las pruebas de chi-cuadrado de Pearson y exacta de Fisher para verificar las asociaciones entre el consumo de azúcar y la mala calidad del sueño a los seis y 12 meses (p <0.05). Resultados: más de la mitad de los niños tenían DS <1 2 h (60,3%) y alrededor de » DN> 2. Se verificó el consumo regular de al menos una de las categorías azucaradas entre el 50,6, el 91,1 y el 100% de los niños a los tres, seis y 12 meses de edad, respectivamente. No se encontraron asociaciones entre el consumo de estos alimentos y los indicadores de mala calidad del sueño. Conclusión: el consumo de azucarados y la mala calidad del sueño fueron frecuentes en nuestro estudio, sin embargo, no se identificó asociación entre las variables. Se necesita más investigación para dilucidar cómo el sueño y la alimentación se interrelacionan y se mejoran mutuamente como determinantes del crecimiento y desarrollo infantil.

ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate sleep duration (SD), frequency of night awakenings (NA) and consumption of sugary foods in the first year of life and to verify the association between consumption of these foods and poor sleep quality. Methods: the study population consisted of 179 children from a birth cohort in Rio Largo-AL. Mothers were asked about the regular supply of sugary foods (sugar/instant cereal flours with sugar/sweetened drinks/sweets) and sleep was investigated by the translated and validated Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire. DS<12h and AN>2 were considered indicators of poor sleep quality. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to verify associations between sugary consumption and poor sleep quality at six and 12 months (p<0.05). Results: more than half of the children had SD<1 2h (60.3%) and about » AN>2. Regular consumption of at least one of the sugary categories was verified among 50.6, 91.1 and 100% of children at three, six and 12 months of age, respectively. No associations were found between the consumption of these foods and indicators of poor sleep quality. Conclusion: sugary consumption and poor sleep quality were frequent in our study; however, no association was identified between the variables. More investigations are needed to elucidate how sleep and feeding are interrelated and mutually potentiate as determinants of infant growth and development.

Carbohydrate-based gold nanoparticles as colorimetric sensor for cysteine

Background@#Gold nanoparticles have been studied extensively for their potential application in the detection of important analytes. Their relative ease of synthesis through numerous procedures makes possible their implementation in a variety of assays. Cysteine (cys), a thiol-containing amino acid implicated in numerous pathologies such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), has been routinely detected through expensive fluorometric assay kits. @*Objectives@#As such, this study aimed to develop a carbohydrate-based gold nanoparticle colorimetric assay for the convenient and straightforward detection of cys. @*Methodology@#Carbohydrate-based gold nanoparticles (c-AuNPs) were synthesized following a microwaveassisted procedure. The as-prepared c-AuNPs were used to detect cys by plotting the ratio of the absorbances of the aggregated and dispersed gold nanoparticles against the concentration of cys. @*Results@#The c-AuNP solutions were able to detect cys in the micromolar range, with the glucose-based AuNPs (glc-AuNPs) showing the widest linear range (16.7 μm to 167 μm), and the fructose-based gold nanoparticles (frc-AuNPs) exhibiting the lowest detection limit (9.0 μm) for cys. Aside from being able to detect cys, the c-AuNPs were also responsive to tyr and lys.@*Conclusion@#This study demonstrates that carbohydrate-based gold nanoparticles prepared following a microwave-assisted procedure using sugars as reducing agents and capping agents can be used successfully in the detection of cysteine.

Ingesta de azúcares agregados a lo largo del ciclo vital según nivel de ingreso. Análisis de dos encuestas poblacionales de la Argentina / Added sugar intake throughout life cycle by income level. Analysis of two population surveys of Argentina

Introducción: la ingesta elevada de azúcares agregados se asocia con enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. El objetivo fue analizar la ingesta de azúcares agregados en la población argentina por etapa del ciclo vital y según nivel de ingreso, e identificar las principales fuentes alimentarias. Materiales y método: estudio descriptivo y transversal, basado en datos secundarios. Se analizó información recolectada en la Encuesta Nacional de Nutrición y Salud 2005, y la Primera Encuesta Alimentaria Nutricional de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires 2011. Se calculó la ingesta total de azúcares agregados, expresado en gramos por día y proporción de la energía total diaria. Se identificaron los principales alimentos o bebidas aportadores de azúcares agregados. La ingesta se comparó con las recomendaciones de la Organización Mundial de la Salud y se estratificó según el quintil de ingresos per cápita del hogar. Se realizó análisis estadístico descriptivo considerando la ponderación muestral, la asociación fue evaluada mediante análisis de regresión lineal y logística. Resultados: se observó asociación entre la ingesta de azúcares agregados y el nivel de ingresos, con cambios en el consumo a lo largo del ciclo vital, alcanzando el máximo durante la adolescencia. El consumo promedio fue superior al límite máximo recomendado en los grupos etarios evaluados, excepto en los adultos mayores de 60 años. El azúcar de mesa, gaseosas y jugos fueron las principales fuentes. Discusión: el elevado consumo de azúcares agregados observado y su asociación con el nivel de ingresos requiere estrategias acordes a las características de cada grupo poblacional(AU).

Introduction: high consumption of added sugars is associated with non-communicable diseases. The objective was to analyze the added sugar intake by life cycle and income level in the Argentine population, and to identify the main food sources. Materials and methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out based in secondary data, the National Survey of Nutrition and Health 2005 and the First Food and Nutrition Survey of Buenos Aires City 2011. Added sugar intake was calculated, expressed in grams per day and proportion of total daily energy. Principal foods and beverages sources of added sugars were identified. Added sugar intake was compared with the World Health Organization´s recommendations, considering income quintile by household member. A descriptive statistical analysis was carried out considering the sample weight, the association was evaluated by linear and logistic regression analysis. Results: an association was found between added sugar intake and income level, with changes throughout the life cycle, with a highest consumption during adolescence. The average consumption was higher than the recommendations in the age groups evaluated, except in adults over 60s. Table sugar and sweetened beverages were the main sources. Conclusion: the high consumption of added sugars observed and its association with income level requires strategies according to the characteristics on each population group(AU).

Disponibilidade de informação sobre quantidade de açúcar em alimentos industrializados / Provision of information on the amount of sugar in processed foods

Resumo O objetivo foi avaliar a disponibilidade da informação sobre quantidade de açúcar e identificar sua posição na lista de ingredientes em alimentos industrializados. Este estudo caracteriza-se como transversal, com análise de todos os alimentos industrializados tradicionais, diet, light e zero comercializados em um hipermercado de grande porte, que contivessem na lista de ingredientes as palavras açúcar ou sacarose. A declaração da quantidade e a posição do açúcar na lista de ingredientes foram registrados após observação do rótulo. A informação de quantidade de açúcar também foi solicitada às indústrias de alimentos, por e-mail ou telefone. Foram analisados 2200 alimentos, sendo 2164 (98,4%) tradicionais e 36 (1,6%) diet, light e zero, nos quais a declaração da quantidade de açúcar foi observada em apenas 14,4% e 13,9% dos alimentos, respectivamente (p=0,84). Das 156 empresas contatadas, apenas 7,7% (n=12) disponibilizaram as informações solicitadas. Dentre os alimentos tradicionais, 75,8% apresentam o açúcar nas três primeiras posições da lista de ingredientes, enquanto nos diet, light e zero, 77,8% (p=0,93). Conclui-se que o açúcar é o principal ingrediente em grande parte dos alimentos analisados e que a disponibilidade de informação de sua quantidade é baixa.

Abstract The objective of this study was to assess the provision of information on the amount of sugar and identify the position of sugar in the list of ingredients of processed foods. A cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze all processed traditional and diet/light/zero food products sold in a hypermarket containing the word sugar or sucrose in the list of ingredients. The food labels were read and the position of sugar on the list of ingredients and presence, or absence, of information on the amount of sugar in the nutrition facts table were recorded. Information on the amount of sugar was also requested from the manufacturers by e-mail or telephone. A total of 2,200 food products were assessed, 2,164 (98.4%) of which were traditional foods and 36 (1.6%) diet/light/zero foods. The amount of sugar was declared in only 14.4% and 13.9% of these products, respectively (p=0.84). Only 7.7% (n=12) of the 156 companies contacted provided the requested information. Sugar was present in the first three positions of the list of ingredients in 75.8% of the traditional foods and 77.8% of the diet/light/zero foods (p=0.93). The data show that sugar was the main ingredient in the majority of the food products analyzed and that the level of provision of information on the amount of sugar is low.

Food insecurity, food expenses and consumption of sugar and soft drinks in households with and without children and/or adolescents / Insegurança alimentar, gasto com alimentos e consumo de açúcar e refrigerante em domicílios com e sem crianças e/ou adolescentes

ABSTRACT Objectives To estimate the frequency of food insecurity in households with and without children/adolescents; compare food expenses, sugar and soft drinks consumption in these households; and to analyze the relationship between food insecurity and demographic/socioeconomic variables with food expenses, and sugar and soft drinks consumption in households with and without children/adolescents. Methods Cross-sectional study with 628 households in Campinas, SP, Brazil. Food insecurity was estimated by the Brazilian Household Food Insecurity Measurement Scale. The dependent variables were the proportion of food expenses, and consumption of sugar and soft drinks; and the independent ones included food security/insecurity condition, monthly family income, gender, age and education of the household head. Results The frequency of food insecurity was higher in households with children/adolescents than in households without minors (41.4% vs. 27.9%). The proportion of food expenses was higher in households with children/adolescents and in all households it was associated with lower family income and, in households with minors, to the presence of a female householder. Soft drinks consumption was higher in households with children/adolescents; and was related to higher income in all households, and to the presence of male householder in households with minors. Sugar consumption in households with children/adolescents was associated with higher income, male gender and education level of the household head (<12 years). In households without children/adolescents, the higher sugar consumption was associated with food insecurity and the household head's education (<8 years). Conclusion In households with children/adolescents there was a greater frequency of food insecurity and a greater commitment of income with food. Food insecurity was associated with increased sugar consumption in households without children/adolescents.

RESUMO Objetivos Estimar a frequência de insegurança alimentar em domicílios com e sem crianças/adolescentes; comparar o gasto com alimentos e o consumo de açúcar e de refrigerante nestes domicílios; e analisar a relação da insegurança alimentar e de variáveis demográficas/socioeconômicas com o gasto com alimentos e com o consumo de açúcar e de refrigerante em domicílios com e sem crianças/adolescentes. Métodos Estudo transversal com 628 domicílios de Campinas, SP, Brasil. A insegurança alimentar foi estimada pela Escala Brasileira de Insegurança Alimentar. As variáveis dependentes foram proporção de gasto com alimentos e consumo de açúcar e refrigerante; as independentes incluíram condição de segurança/insegurança alimentar, renda familiar mensal, sexo, idade e escolaridade do chefe da família. Resultados A frequência de insegurança alimentar foi maior nos domicílios com crianças/adolescentes do que nos domicílios sem menores (41,4% vs. 27,9%). A proporção de gasto com alimentos foi superior nos domicílios com crianças/adolescentes; em todos esteve associada ao menor rendimento familiar e, nos domicílios com menores, à presença de chefe da família do sexo feminino. O consumo de refrigerante foi maior em domicílios com crianças/adolescentes, relacionou-se à maior renda em todos os domicílios e à presença de chefe da família do sexo masculino em domicílios com menores. O consumo de açúcar nos domicílios com crianças/adolescentes associou-se à maior renda, sexo masculino e escolaridade do chefe <12 anos. Nos domicílios sem crianças/adolescentes, o maior consumo de açúcar esteve associado à insegurança alimentar e à escolaridade do chefe da família <8 anos. Conclusão Nos domicílios com crianças/adolescentes, houve maior frequência de insegurança alimentar e maior comprometimento da renda com a alimentação. A insegurança alimentar associou-se ao aumento do consumo de açúcar em domicílios sem crianças/adolescentes.

Década da Ação em Nutrição e tributação de bebidas açucaradas no Brasil: onde estamos? / Decade of Action on Nutrition and sugary drinks taxation in Brazil: where are we? / Década de la Acción en Nutrición y tributación de bebidas azucaradas en Brasil: ¿dónde estamos?

Resumo: O Brasil foi o primeiro país a comprometer-se com a Década da Ação em Nutrição da Organização das Nações Unidas, com metas ambiciosas relativas ao controle da obesidade e à redução do consumo de bebidas açucaradas. Neste estudo, descrevemos as iniciativas legislativas relacionadas à tributação de bebidas açucaradas apresentadas no Congresso Nacional durante os primeiros quatro anos da Década e a situação do processo decisório. Foram buscadas, nas bases de dados da Câmara dos Deputados e do Senado Federal, todas as propostas apresentadas entre 2016 e 2019 que tratassem do tema, sendo apresentados os resultados de forma narrativa, descrevendo-se o conteúdo dos projetos e a situação da tramitação. Ao todo, foram identificadas dez propostas. Seis delas visam ao aumento da tributação e ainda se encontram em apreciação de Comissões na Câmara dos Deputados. Quatro propostas buscavam sustar um ato normativo que resultou no aumento da tributação sobre concentrados de refrigerantes e foram rejeitadas e arquivadas. Ainda há um longo caminho a ser percorrido para o aumento da tributação das bebidas açucaradas no país. A complexidade e a morosidade do processo decisório no Congresso Nacional impõem dois riscos: que nenhum projeto seja convertido em lei ou, caso o seja, que não cause qualquer impacto na saúde pública até 2025.

Abstract: Brazil was the first country to commit to the United Nations' Decade of Action on Nutrition with ambitious goals related to controlling obesity and reducing the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. In this study, we describe legislative efforts related to sugar-sweetened beverage taxation introduced in the Brazilian Legislature throughout the first four years of this decade as well as the status of the decision-making process. We searched databases within the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate for legislative proposals introduced between 2016 and 2019 that addressed sugary drinks taxation. The results are presented narratively. The content of the bills and status of the legislative process are described. Ten bills were identified. Six of them are aimed at raising taxes and are currently under consideration in the Committees by the first legislative House. Four bills had been aimed at repealing an act which increased taxes on soft drink concentrates, but they have since been rejected and archived. There still seems to be a long road ahead before taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages are raised in Brazil. The lawmaking process in the Brazilian Legislature is complex and slow. This poses two risks: no law being passed; or enacted legislation not being capable to cause significant impact on public health by 2025.

Resumen: Brasil fue el primer país en comprometerse con la Década de la Acción en Nutrición de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas, con metas ambiciosas relativas al control de la obesidad y a la reducción del consumo de bebidas azucaradas. En este estudio, describimos las iniciativas legislativas relacionadas con la tributación de bebidas azucaradas, presentadas en el Congreso Nacional durante los primeros cuatro años de la Década, y la situación del proceso decisorio. Se buscaron en las bases de datos de la Cámara de los Diputados y del Senado Federal todas las propuestas presentadas entre 2016 y 2019 que tratasen el tema. Se presentan los resultados de forma narrativa, describiéndose el contenido de los proyectos y la situación de la tramitación. Se identificaron en total diez propuestas. Seis de ellas tienen como objetivo el aumento de la tributación e incluso se encuentran en apreciación de Comisiones en la Cámara de los Diputados. Cuatro propuestas buscaban demorar un acto normativo que resultó en el aumento de la tributación sobre concentrados y refrescos, que fueron rechazadas y archivadas. Todavía hay un largo camino por recorrer para el aumento de la tributación de las bebidas azucaradas en el país. La complejidad y la tardanza del proceso decisivo en el Congreso Nacional imponen dos riesgos: que ningún proyecto sea convertido en ley o, en caso de que lo sea, que no cause cualquier impacto en la salud pública hasta 2025.

Community interventions and strategies for caries control in Latin American and Caribbean countries

Abstract Dental caries remains highly prevalent in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC). However, this disease can be controlled through interventions that implement evidence-based strategies in an affordable manner and that target all population groups instead of the most affluent only. Therefore, the aim of this report was to summarize the main scientifically documented community interventions and strategies based on restriction of sugars consumption, use of fluoride, and the use of occlusal sealants for caries control in LACC. A critical literature review was carried out in a systematic manner that included defined search strategies, independent review of the identified publications, and compilation of results in this report. Three systematic searches were conducted using the PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases to identify studies related to community interventions and strategies for caries control in LACC. Of the 37 publications identified, twenty-six focused on fluoride use, eight on occlusal sealant use, and three on the restriction of sugar consumption. Documented community interventions for sugars restriction were scarce in the region and were based on food supplementation, sugar replacement, and education. Thus, local and/or national policies should prioritize investment in upstream, coherent, and integrated population-wide policies such as taxes on sugary drinks and stronger regulation of advertising and promotion of sugary foods and drinks mainly targeting children. The main fluoride-based strategies used drinking water, refined domestic salt, cow milk, toothpaste and, to a lesser extent, mouth-rinses, acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gels, and varnishes to deliver fluoride to the population. Evidence of fluoride use was seen in Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Studies reporting the use of occlusal sealants were mainly located in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico, and Venezuela. Community interventions restricting sugar consumption should be implemented at the individual level and through public policies. The use of fluoride must be monitored at the local, regional, and national levels so as to achieve maximum anti-caries effect while also minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis. Moreover, fluoridated water and salt programs, used as a mutually exclusive community level strategy for caries control, should expand their benefits to reach non-covered areas of the LACC while also simultaneously providing adequate surveillance of the fluoride concentration delivered to the population. Regulating the concentration of soluble fluoride (for anti-caries effect) in dentifrice formulations is also necessary in order to provide the population with an effective strategy for disease control. Targeting culturally appropriate, economically sustainable caries control interventions to rural populations and native ethnic groups such as indigenous people, quilombolas (African-origin), and riverside Amazonian people remains a crucial challenge.

Timing of sugar introduction in diet and early childhood caries: a population-based study in preschoolers / Momento de introdução de açúcar na dieta e cárie na primeira infância: um estudo de base populacional em pré-escolares

Abstract Introduction Sugar ingestion is the most important isolated factor related to dental caries. Contact with sugary foods at an early age may represent a risk to the oral health of preschool children. Objective To evaluate the timing of the introduction of sugar in the diet of preschoolers and its association with early childhood caries. Material and method Cross-sectional population-based study with 888 five-year-old preschoolers from public and private schools. Parents answered a questionnaire on sociodemographic data, eating habits and oral health. The variables timing of sugar introduction (>1 year and ≤1 year) and dental caries experience were dichotomized and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Poisson regression (p<0.05). Result The introduction of sugar in the diet occurred during the first twelve months of life for 73.8% of preschoolers. There was no association between the timing of sugar introduction and early childhood caries (p>0.05). The interruption of exclusive breastfeeding and low family income increased the prevalence of preschoolers having early contact with sugar by 32% and 23%, respectively (p<0.05). The prevalence of early childhood caries was 42.3% and was associated with a lower level of maternal education, low income, increased frequency of ingestion of candy and the use of nonfluoridated toothpaste (p<0.05). Conclusion The introduction of sugar in the diet occurred during the first year of life in most preschoolers and there was no association with early childhood caries.

Resumo Introdução A ingestão de açúcar é um importante fator relacionado à cárie dentária. O contato com alimentos açucarados em idade precoce pode representar risco para a saúde bucal de crianças em idade pré-escolar. Objetivo Avaliar o momento de introdução do açúcar na dieta de pré-escolares e sua associação com a cárie na primeira infância. Material e método Estudo transversal de base populacional com 888 pré-escolares de cinco anos de escolas públicas e privadas. Os pais responderam questionário sobre dados sociodemográficos, hábitos alimentares e saúde bucal. As variáveis ​​tempo de introdução do açúcar (> 1 ano e ≤1 ano) e experiência de cárie dentária foram dicotomizadas e os dados foram analisados ​​por meio de estatística descritiva e regressão de Poisson (p <0,05). Resultado A introdução do açúcar na dieta ocorreu nos primeiros doze meses de vida para 73,8% dos pré-escolares. Não houve associação entre o momento de introdução do açúcar e a cárie na primeira infância (p> 0,05). A interrupção do aleitamento materno exclusivo e a baixa renda familiar aumentaram a prevalência de pré-escolares com contato precoce com açúcar em 32% e 23%, respectivamente (p <0,05). A prevalência de cárie na primeira infância foi de 42,3% e esteve associada à menor escolaridade materna, baixa renda, maior frequência de ingestão de doces e uso de dentifrício não fluoretado (p <0,05). Conclusão A introdução de açúcar na dieta ocorreu durante o primeiro ano de vida na maioria dos pré-escolares e não houve associação com cárie na primeira infância.

Simultaneous determination of organic acids and sugars in fruit juices by High performance liquid chromatography: characterization and differentiation of commercial juices by principal component analysis / Determinação simultânea de ácidos orgânicos e açucares em sucos de frutas por Cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência: caracterização e diferenciação de sucos comerciais por análise de componentes principais

ABSTRACT: The present research presents an analytical methodology based on High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Principal Component Analyses (PCA) for simultaneous quantification and analytical differentiation of organic acids and sugars in commercial fruit juice samples (orange, grape, apple and tangerine). In addition to the development of the method that generated suitable validation paramters for quantitative analytical applications, the analysis of fourteen commercial samples and the use of Principal Component Analysis indicated the relationship between the constituents and the very constitutional chemical nature of the juice. In general, in grape and apple juices, ascorbic acid was not quantified and the citric acid content was very low; however, the concentrations of fructose and glucose were the highest in both juices. In orange and mandarin orange juices, the content of all analytes, except acorbic acid, did not differ statistically from each other. However, these differed significantly from the others, mainly in relation to sucrose content. Finally, the apple juice samples differed according to the content of fructose and malic acid, the predominant constituint of the apple. Results showed that the simultaneous chromatographic method associated with principal component analysis generated important information about characteristics of commercial juices, with the potential to be used in systems of quality control and identification of adulterations.

RESUMO: O presente trabalho apresenta uma metodologia analítica baseada em Cromatografia Líquida de Alto Desempenho (CLAE) e Análise de Componentes Principais (ACP) para quantificação simultânea e diferenciação analítica de ácidos orgânicos e açúcares em amostras comerciais de suco de frutas (laranja, uva, maçã e tangerina). Além do desenvolvimento do método que gerou parâmetros de validação adequados para aplicações analítica quantitativas, a análise de catorze amostras comerciais e o uso da ACP indicaram a relação entre os analitos e a natureza química constitucional do suco. Em geral, nos sucos de uva e maçã não foi quantificado ácido ascórbico sendo o conteúdo de ácido cítrico muito baixo, no entanto, as concentrações de frutose e glicose foram as mais altas em ambos sucos. Nos sucos de laranja e tangerina, o conteúdo de todos os analitos, exceto o ácido ascórbico, não diferiram estatisticamente entre si. No entanto, diferiram significativamente dos demais, principalmente em relação ao conteúdo de sacarose. Finalmente, as amostras de suco de maçã diferiram de acordo com o teor de frutose e ácido málico, constituinte predominante da maçã. Os resultados mostraram que o método comatográfico simultâneo associado à análise de componentes principais gera informações importantes sobre as características dos sucos comerciais, com potencialidade para ser utilizado em sistemas de controle de qualidade e identificação de adulterações.

Primeira infância sem açúcar: um direito a ser conquistado / Early childhood without sugar: a right to be ensured / La primera infancia sin azúcar: un derecho que hay que conquistar

Objetivo: promover a reflexão acerca do impacto do consumo de açúcar na primeira infância à luz da garantia de direitos. Metodologia: o trabalho foi realizado a partir de revisão integrativa de literatura na base de dados PubMed com o uso de descritores específicos. Foram selecionados textos completos em inglês, disponíveis online de 2014 a 2019. Também foram utilizados, de forma complementar, documentos oficiais sobre o perfil nutricional da população e o desenvolvimento das doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em crianças. Resultados: a busca no banco de dados PubMed registrou 36 publicações, das quais onze foram selecionadas para a presente revisão. A fim de relacionar o tema do consumo de açúcar ao direito à saúde da criança, foram consultados também nove documentos jurídicos, onze publicações oficiais de órgãos governamentais, além de livros técnicos, o que possibilitou fundamentar a discussão sobre o impacto do açúcar na saúde da criança como um direito a ser conquistado. Conclusão: apesar do moderno aparato de proteção à saúde e à alimentação da primeira infância pautado pela legislação brasileira, persiste o excesso de açúcar livre na alimentação infantil, o que causa impacto negativo comprovado na prevalência de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis. A alimentação sem sacarose pode ser apontada como um direito da primeira infância devido a sua influência na formação de hábitos, na prevenção de doenças e na qualidade de vida a longo prazo.

Objective: to reflect on sugar consumption´s impact on early childhood in children´s rights perspective. Methods: it is an integrative literature review. The authors selected full texts in English by searching articles from 2014 to 2019 in the PubMed database with specific descriptors. To complement the study, it was used official documents on the nutritional profile of the population and the development of chronic non-communicable diseases in children. Results: the PubMed database search recorded 36 publications, of which eleven were selected for this review. To relate the topic of sugar consumption to the right to children's health, nine legal documents, eleven official publications from government agencies, as well as technical books were also consulted, which made it possible to base the discussion on the impact of sugar on children's health as a right to be conquered. Conclusion: despite the modern apparatus for protecting early childhood health and nutrition by Brazilian legislation, there is still an excess of free sugar in children's diet, which has a proven negative impact on the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases. Eating without sucrose can be considered as a right of early childhood due to its influence on the formation of habits, in disease prevention, and on long-term quality of life.

Objetivo: promover la reflexión sobre el impacto del consumo de azúcar en la primera infancia a la luz de la garantía de los derechos. Metodología: el trabajo se realizó a partir de una revisión bibliográfica integradora en la base de datos PubMed utilizando descriptores específicos. Se seleccionaron los textos completos en inglés disponibles en línea desde 2014 hasta 2019. También se utilizaron de manera complementaria los documentos oficiales sobre el perfil nutricional de la población y sobre la evolución de las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles en los niños. Resultados: la búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed registró 36 publicaciones, de las cuales once fueron seleccionadas para este examen. Para relacionar el tema del consumo de azúcar con el derecho a la salud infantil, se consultaron también nueve documentos jurídicos, once publicaciones oficiales de organismos gubernamentales, además de libros técnicos, que permitieron fundamentar la discusión sobre el impacto del azúcar en la salud infantil como un derecho a conquistar. Conclusión: a pesar del moderno aparato de protección de la salud y nutrición de la primera infancia regido por la legislación brasileña, sigue habiendo un exceso de azúcar libre en la dieta de los niños, lo que ha demostrado tener un efecto negativo en la prevalencia de las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. La dieta sin sacarosa puede ser señalada como un derecho de la primera infancia por su influencia en la formación de hábitos, en la prevención de enfermedades y en la calidad de vida a largo plazo.

Consumo de azúcares totales y su asociación con obesidad en población chilena - Resultados del estudio GENADIO / Total sugar consumption and its association with obesity in Chilean adults

Background: Sugar intake is a risk factor for the development of obesity. Aim: To investigate the association between total sugar intake and obesity markers in Chilean adults. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 396 participants of the GENADIO study. Anthropometric measurements (body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio, and % body fat) were measured through standardized protocols. Total sugar intake was determined from a 7-days weighted food daily. Sugar intake expressed in g/day was categorized into quartiles. Results: Higher sugar intake was associated with a higher BMI, WC and HC but not with body fat %. One quartile increment in sugar intake was associated with 1.50 kg [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49; 2.50] higher body weight, 0.34 kg/m2 [95% CI: 0.01; 0.69] higher BMI, 1.23 cm [95% CI: 0.11; 2.34] higher WC, 1.39 cm [95% CI: 0.28; 2.50] higher HC and 0.02 the waist-to-hip ratio [95% C: 0.01; 0.02]. Conclusions: Total sugar intake was associated with higher adiposity levels in these Chilean adults.