A comprehensive multi-task deep learning approach for predicting metabolic syndrome with genetic, nutritional, and clinical data.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disorder characterized by a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including abdominal obesity, hypertension, elevated triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and impaired glucose tolerance. It poses a significant public health concern, as individuals with MetS are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Early and accurate identification of individuals at risk for MetS is essential. Various machine learning approaches have been employed to predict MetS, such as logistic regression, support vector machines, and several boosting techniques. However, these methods use MetS as a binary status and do not consider that MetS comprises five components. Therefore, a method that focuses on these characteristics of MetS is needed. In this study, we propose a multi-task deep learning model designed to predict MetS and its five components simultaneously. The benefit of multi-task learning is that it can manage multiple tasks with a single model, and learning related tasks may enhance the model's predictive performance. To assess the efficacy of our proposed method, we compared its performance with that of several single-task approaches, including logistic regression, support vector machine, CatBoost, LightGBM, XGBoost and one-dimensional convolutional neural network. For the construction of our multi-task deep learning model, we utilized data from the Korean Association Resource (KARE) project, which includes 352,228 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 7729 individuals. We also considered lifestyle, dietary, and socio-economic factors that affect chronic diseases, in addition to genomic data. By evaluating metrics such as accuracy, precision, F1-score, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, we demonstrate that our multi-task learning model surpasses traditional single-task machine learning models in predicting MetS.

Chronic daily intake, probabilistic carcinogenic risk assessment and multivariate analysis of volatile N-nitrosamines in chicken sausages.

Volatile N-nitrosamines (VNAs) are probably and possibly carcinogenic compounds to humans and widely found in processed meat products. In this study, the dietary exposure distribution and probabilistic cancer risk for main VNAs (N-nitrosodimethylamine, N-nitrosodiethylamine, N-nitrosomethylethylamine, N-nitrosopiperidine, N-nitrosodibutylamine, and N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine) were calculated by Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). The lowest and highest mean concentrations of these six NAs were related to NDBA and NDEA as 0.350 and 2.655 µg/kg, respectively. In the 95th percentile, chronic daily intake of total VNAs for children (3-14 years) and adults (15-70 years) were calculated to be 2.83 × 10-4 and 5.90 × 10-5 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. The cancer risk caused by the consumption of chicken sausages was less than 10-4, indicating low concern for the Iranian population. According to principal component analysis and heat map results, NDEA, NPIP and frying showed a positive correlation, highlighting that the variables follow a similar trend.

Dietary free L-glutamate contributes to maintaining a low sodium intake among Vietnamese.

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recommend the consumption of less than 2,000 mg of sodium/day to reduce blood pressure and the risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. The sodium intake among Vietnamese was reported to be 7,200 mg/d or more. Free L-glutamate enhances flavor when it is added to food and improves the taste of sodium-reduced foods. Objective: This study aims to investigate whether the intake of free L-glutamate-rich seasonings contributes to maintaining a low sodium intake in a cross-over study. Methods: From a total of 145 subjects, 42 participants were screened for participation in the cross-over design study. Subjects were randomly allocated to the Low free L-glutamate group (Low free L-Gl) and the Normal free L-glutamate group (Normal free L-Gl). Both received a direct educational guideline to reduce sodium intake. The Low free L-Gl group started with a restriction in the variety of free L-glutamate-rich seasonings, and the Normal free L-Gl group had no restriction in the variety of seasonings. Blood pressure was measured at week 0 (baseline), week 2, week 4, and week 6, while body weight, height, urine sodium and potassium excretion, chromogranin-A (CgA pmol/mg protein) from saliva, and free L-glutamate from food were measured at week 0, week 3, and week 6. Results: In Low free L-Gl, the amount of free L-glutamate in food decreased significantly from baseline to week 6 (p < 0.00), while it did not change in the Normal free L-Gl (p > 0.05). However, the reduction of sodium excretion at week 6 was 22% in Low free L-Gl (5,875 mg/d vs. 4,603 mg/d, p < 0.01) and 46% in Normal free L-Gl (6,107 mg/d vs. 3,277 mg/d, p < 0.00), both lower than the baseline. CgA (pmol/mg protein) did not show any difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The group with Normal free L-Gl intake showed a 46% reduction in sodium excretion by week 6 compared to the baseline. This suggests that the consumption of L-glutamate-rich seasonings when complemented with direct educational guidelines, can contribute to maintaining a low sodium intake.

Impact of dietary selenium and blood concentration on liver function: a population-based study.

Background: Evidence on the association between selenium and liver function parameters is limited and controversial. Methods: Data on dietary selenium intake, blood selenium concentration, and liver function parameters were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2020. Associations between selenium (dietary intake and blood concentration) and liver function parameters [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), the ALT/AST ratio, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)] were assessed using multivariate linear regression models. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were conducted to examine differences in associations according to age, gender, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, and physical activity. Results: The study included 6,869 participants after screening. The multivariate linear regression model revealed that dietary selenium intake was positively associated with ALT (ß = 0.112, 95% CI = 0.041, 0.183) and the ALT/AST ratio (ß = 0.002, 95% CI = 0.001, 0.004) after adjustment for covariates. Results of blood selenium concentration also showed that higher blood selenium levels were positively associated with ALT (ß = 0.436, 95% CI = 0.308, 0.564), AST (ß = 0.112, 95% CI = 0.015, 0.208), and the ALT/AST ratio (ß = 0.012, 95% CI = 0.009, 0.015). However, ALP decreased with increasing blood selenium concentration (ß = -0.207, 95% CI = -0.414, -0.000). In addition, we found significant differences in the effect of selenium on liver function parameters according to age, gender, and BMI. Conclusion: Dietary selenium intake and blood concentration affect liver function parameters. These findings suggest that further research is needed to explore these associations to promote liver health and disease prevention.

Effect of caffeine intake on self-reported and genetic prediction of osteoarthritis: an epidemiological study and Mendelian randomization analysis.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) holds the distinction of being the most widespread musculoskeletal disorder. Any disruptions in the integrity of the articular cartilage can result in joint malfunction, discomfort, and impaired physical functioning. Increasing evidence indicates the negative impacts of caffeine intake on hyaline cartilage. The primary objective of this study was to delve deeper into understanding the potential link between the consumption of caffeine and the risk of developing OA. Methods: In this study, we constructed logistic regression models to evaluate the correlation between caffeine consumption and the risk of osteoarthritis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Following that, we utilized genome-wide association studies to conduct a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis investigating the association between coffee consumption and the likelihood of developing knee OA. We employed various statistical methods, including inverse variance weighting (IVW), weighted median, weighted mode, simple mode, and MR-Egger regression, to ensure comprehensive analysis and robust conclusions. To evaluate heterogeneity and the potential impact of pleiotropy, we conducted several statistical tests, including Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier test (MR-PRESSO), and MR Steiger test. Results: The weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the relationship between high caffeine intake (95-206 and ≥206 mg/day) and OA prevalence remained significantly high even after adjusting for covariates using the lowest caffeine intake (< 11 mg/day) as reference: Model 1-OR (95% Cl) = 1.365 (1.18-1.58) and 1.59 (1.38-1.83); Model 2-OR (95% Cl) = 1.21 (1.04-1.42) and 1.44 (1.23-1.68); and Model 3-OR (95% Cl) = 1.19 (1.01-1.40) and 1.30 (1.10-1.52), respectively (p < 0.05). The findings from the fixed effects inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis revealed a statistically significant link between coffee intake and the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis: OR = 1.94; 95% confidence interval (Cl) =1.471-2.517; (p < 0.001). Consistent findings were obtained across various other methods, including MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode analyses. Conclusion: Our study showed a positive correlation between OA prevalence and high caffeine intake (≥95 mg/day).

Fruits and vegetables dietary intake and its estimated consumption among adults receiving antiretroviral therapy in health facilities in Northcentral Ethiopia: a multi-facility cross-sectional study.

Background: Despite the significant role of fruit and vegetables (FAVs) in preventing a variety of chronic diseases and their potential to bolster immune responses and slow the progression of HIV infection to AIDS, there is a lack of studies on the dietary intake of FAVs among HIV-infected adults in Africa, including Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude of FAV intake and estimated consumption among HIV-infected adults receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in northcentral Ethiopia. Methods: A multifacility cross-sectional study was conducted on the FAV intake among 865 HIV-infected adults receiving ART. A Poisson regression model with robust variance was used to identify factors associated with FAVs dietary intake. Results: The study indicated that 655 (76.34%; 95% CI: 73.38, 79.07) HIV-infected adults reported consuming FAVs less than once per day, with 838 (97.67%, 95% CI: 96.41, 98.49) and 676 (78.79%, 95% CI: 75.92, 81.40) HIV-infected adults reporting consuming fruits and vegetables less than once per day, respectively. The median (IQR) total FAV intake was 271.3 (IQR: 92.5, 439.5) g/day, with the median (IQR) intake of fruits being 248.1 (IQR: 100.0, 400.0) g/day and vegetables being 273.78 (IQR: 82.44, 348.33) g/day, respectively. We found that being divorced (APR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.12), employed as a daily laborer (APR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.36, 3.20), being employed (APR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.84), merchants (APR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.47), having children as caregivers (APR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.55), an advanced WHO clinical stage (APR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.32(1.03, 1.69), and receiving ART for more than 8 years (APR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.18, 2.67) were found to be independent predictors of FAV dietary intake among HIV-infected adults. From the findings, we understood that farmers were less likely to consume FAVs compared to employed individuals, daily laborers, and merchants. Conclusion: The finding indicated a very low level of FAV dietary intake among HIV-infected adults receiving ART, falling well-below the minimum recommendation for physically active adults. Despite living in areas with surplus production and producing these items, farmers are less likely to consume FAV. The study emphasizes the importance of focusing on the early stage of ART treatment for patients and family therapy, including counseling and guidance on consuming healthy diets such as FAVs, to enhance the role of children as caregivers for their families. Additionally, there is a need for comprehensive nutritional counseling to improve FAV consumption, with a particular emphasis on educating individuals about portion size estimation for the consumption of FAVs.

Skin Carotenoid Levels Are Associated with Demographic Factors, Body Size, and Fruit and Vegetable Intake in the Japanese Population.

This study aimed to determine the association between demographic factors, body size, and fruit and vegetable intake in the general population, focusing on individuals with both low and high skin carotenoid levels. This cross-sectional study was conducted during the 14th National Convention on the Promotion of Food and Nutrition Education (2019) in Yamanashi, Japan (a rural area) and the Open House 2019 at the National Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition in Tokyo, Japan (an urban area). Skin carotenoid measurements were conducted, and the participants were asked to fill out a self-administered questionnaire. The study population consisted of 492 Japanese individuals aged ≥16 years. The odds ratios (ORs) for low skin carotenoid levels were elevated in males, those who were overweight, and those who almost never consumed or consumed only one vegetable dish/day. Conversely, the ORs were lower in those living in Yamanashi, aged 30-39 and ≥70 years, and those who consumed fruit ≥1 time/week. For high skin carotenoid levels, the ORs were higher among those aged ≥70 years, living in Yamanashi, and those who consumed fruit ≥1 time/day or ≥5 vegetable dishes/day. Demographic factors, body size, and habitual fruit and vegetable intake may serve as indicators of skin carotenoid levels.

Effects of Dietary Fiber Intake and the Prevalence of Constipation Among Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

RATIONALE/BACKGROUND: Hemodialysis (HD) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are particularly prone to constipation, which has become a growing public health issue. Nutritional therapy, such as fiber intake, significantly influences the management of constipation. In Saudi Arabia, there is limited data on fiber consumption and its correlation with constipation management in HD patients. AIMS: The study aimed to investigate the correlation between dietary fiber intake and its effect on the prevalence of constipation in HD patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study of 77 ESRD patients on HD aged 18+ was conducted in a single dialysis center over six months. A questionnaire was employed to diagnose constipation (as defined by the Rome IV criteria of constipation), and seven-day food records were used to evaluate dietary fiber intake. RESULTS: A study found a high prevalence of constipation (53%) among participants, with a lower daily fiber intake than recommended. However, a significant relationship was found between fiber intake and constipation (p < 0.05) with lower fiber intake in constipated patients compared to non-constipated (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The study highlights a significant link between fiber intake and constipation in HD patients, suggesting adequate daily intake of fiber was effective in preventing constipation and that nutritional counseling should include adequate daily fiber intake in medical therapy management.

The Influence of the Energy Intake Variability During the Week on the Body Composition in an Adult Population.

Background: The regularity of eating, together with other nutritional factors, is one of the important determinants of health. According to previous studies, it is not clear if a greater fluctuation in energy intake is associated with higher body fat and weight gain, or if the weight of people is stable despite these fluctuations in the energy intake. The aim of the study was to verify if a higher variability in the energy intake each day of the week is related to the amount of body fat and other anthropometric parameters. Methods: A total of 220 (151 women, 69 men) individuals of Czech Caucasian origin with a BMI of 18.3-58 kg/m2, aged 21.7-79.7 were included in the study. Selected anthropometric characteristics were measured using a bioelectrical impedance analysis. 7-day food records were completed and analyzed using nutritional software. The measured values were statistically evaluated by multiple linear regression analysis. Results: The results of the multiple linear regression showed the statistically significant dependence of the percentage of body fat (p<0.01), BMI (p<0.01), and waist circumference (p<0.05) on the relative variability of the daily energy intake. Conclusions: The results of our study suggest that people with more regular energy intake also have better anthropometric parameters related to their cardiometabolic health.

Knowledge translation and knowledge mobilization from the FoodBAll project.

This report describes the knowledge mobilization and translation outcomes of the Canadian-funded portion of a large, international project called the Food Biomarker Alliance (FoodBAll), which ran from 2015 to 2019. This remarkably successful project led to a large number of important findings, outputs, and impacts. In particular, FoodBAll unequivocally demonstrated that metabolomics could be used to not only discover biomarkers of food intake (BFIs), but also to measure diet in a more objective manner. FoodBAll also created standards for assessing and validating BFIs, papers and databases describing BFIs, and kits for measuring BFIs and it laid the groundwork for many global studies exploring food composition and precision nutrition.

Zinc Toxicity: Understanding the Limits.

Zinc, a vital trace element, holds significant importance in numerous physiological processes within the body. It participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, metabolic functions, regulation of gene expression, apoptosis and immune modulation, thereby demonstrating its essential role in maintaining overall health and well-being. While zinc deficiency is associated with significant health risks, an excess of this trace element can also lead to harmful effects. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 6.7 to 15 mg per day are referred to be the dietary reference value. An excess of the recommended daily intake may result in symptoms such as anemia, neutropenia and zinc-induced copper deficiency. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) defines the tolerable upper intake level (UL) as 25 mg per day, whereas the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows 40 mg per day. This review will summarize the current knowledge regarding the calculation of UL and other health risks associated with zinc. For example, zinc intake is not limited to oral consumption; other routes, such as inhalation or topical application, may also pose risks of zinc intoxication.

The Role of School Health Promotion in Students' Dietary Intake during School Hours: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis.

Many children in the Netherlands do not adhere to dietary guidelines. Therefore, the Healthy School (HS) program stimulates healthier dietary intake of students through schools. However, evaluating the effectiveness of school health promotion in improving dietary intake is challenging due to the influence of contextual factors. Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) considers these contextual factors. Therefore, we performed a QCA to examine which (combinations of) contextual factors contribute to the healthier dietary intake of students during school hours in primary schools (approximate age range children 4-12 years) and secondary schools (age range 12-18 years) when implementing the HS program for nutrition. Data were collected mainly through interviewing school staff and a school-level questionnaire in fifteen primary schools and twelve secondary schools. We included five factors for primary schools: implementation of the HS program for nutrition, degree of implementation, socioeconomic status, parental support, and student support. For secondary schools, we included school environment instead of parental and student support. For primary schools, the best results were obtained if the HS program for nutrition was implemented in high socioeconomic status schools with a combination of high implementation, parental support, and student support. Findings indicate that if secondary schools have an impeding environment and low socioeconomic status, implementation of the HS program for nutrition can result in healthier dietary intake.

Assessment of Water Intake among Chinese Toddlers: The Report of a Survey.

Toddlerhood (aged 13~36 months) is a period of dietary transition, with water intake being significantly influenced by parental feeding patterns, cultural traditions, and the availability of beverages and food. Nevertheless, given the lack of applicable data, it is challenging to guide and evaluate the water intake of toddlers in China. In this study, our objectives were to assess the daily total water intake (TWI), evaluate the consumption patterns of various beverages and food sources contributing to the TWI, determine the conformity of participants to the adequate intake (AI) recommendation of water released by the Chinese Nutrition Society, and analyze the various contributors to the daily total energy intake (TEI). The data for the assessment of water and dietary intake were obtained from the cross-sectional dietary intake survey of infants and young children (DSIYC, 2018-2019). A total of 1360 eligible toddlers were recruited in the analysis. The differences in related variables between two age groups were compared by Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-Square test. The potential correlation between water and energy intake was examined utilizing age-adjusted partial correlation. Toddlers consumed a median daily TWI of 1079 mL, with 670 mL (62.3%, r = 0.752) derived from beverages and 393 mL (37.7%, r = 0.716) from foods. Plain water was the primary beverage source, contributing 300 mL (52.2%, r = 0.823), followed by milk and milk derivatives (MMDs) at 291 mL (45.6%, r = 0.595). Notably, only 28.4% of toddlers managed to reach the recommended AI value. Among these, toddlers obtain more water from beverages than from foods. The median daily TEI of toddlers was 762 kcal, including 272 kcal from beverages (36.4%, r = 0.534) and 492 kcal from foods (63.6%, r = 0.894). Among these, the median daily energy intake from MMDs was 260 kcal, making up 94.6% of the energy intake from beverages (r = 0.959). As the pioneer survey on TWI of toddlers in China based on nationally representative data, attention to the quality and quantity of water intake and actions to better guide parents by both individuals and authorities are eagerly anticipated. Additionally, the revision of the reference value of TWI for Chinese toddlers is urgently required.

The Effect of 24 h Shift Work on the Nutritional Status of Healthcare Workers: An Observational Follow-Up Study from Türkiye.

This study aimed to determine changes in energy and nutrient intakes over three consecutive days, including the day of the shift, and the days before and after the shift, in healthcare workers working in a 24 h shift system. This study is an observational follow-up study conducted with a total of 500 volunteer healthcare professionals. Food consumption records were taken over 3 consecutive days: pre-shift (off day), shift day (24 h shift), and post-shift (off day). Mean daily intakes of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, saturated fat, caffeine, vitamins B1, B2, niacin, B6, folate, and B12, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc are listed from highest to lowest as shift day > pre-shift > post-shift (p < 0.05 for all pairwise comparisons). While fiber, vitamin C, and calcium intakes were similar on the shift day and pre-shift day, they were significantly lower on the post-shift day (p < 0.05). The lowest dietary reference intake percentages on the post-shift day were calcium, fiber, and folate, respectively. In the present study, significant differences were detected in the energy, micronutrient-intake, and macronutrient-intake levels between the pre-shift day, shift day, and post-shift day of healthcare workers. Awareness should be increased regarding the decreased nutrient intake seen especially on the first day after a 24 h shift, and appropriate precautions should be taken to increase calcium, fiber, and folate intake levels.

Children's Iodine Intake from Dairy Products and Related Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in Two Provinces of China.

Dairy products are a significant source of iodine, and their contribution to iodine intake must be evaluated regularly. However, there is a lack of data on iodine intake from dairy products in China. Through a cross-sectional study, we determined the iodine content of dairy products in the Chinese diet and estimated iodine intake among Chinese children. Intake records for 30 consecutive days were used to investigate the consumption of dairy products by 2009 children from Yunnan and Liaoning Provinces. The iodine contents of 266 dairy products with high intake frequency were determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We then calculated the iodine intake and contribution of dairy products and explored the related factors of dairy iodine intake through a generalized linear mixed model. Ultra-high-temperature (UHT) sterilized milk accounted for 78.7% of the total dairy products, with an iodine content of 23.0 µg/100 g. The dairy product intake rate of children in China was 83.6%, with an average daily intake of 143.1 g. The median iodine intake from milk and dairy was 26.8 µg/d, 41.5% of the estimated average recommendation (EAR) for younger children and 31.8% of the EAR for older children. The daily milk iodine intake of children in Yunnan Province was 9.448 µg/day lower than that of children in Liaoning Province (p < 0.001), and the daily iodine intake of children in rural areas was 17.958 µg/day lower than that of children in urban areas (p < 0.001). Chinese dairy products were rich in iodine, and the content of iodine was intermediate to that reported in Europe and the USA. However, children's daily intake of milk iodine was lower than that of children in other developed countries due to the lower daily intake of dairy products, especially those in rural areas.

Typical Guidelines for Well-Balanced Diet and Science Communication in Japan and Worldwide.

Numerous studies have investigated healthy diets and nutrients. Governments and scientists have communicated their findings to the public in an easy-to-understand manner, which has played a critical role in achieving citizens' well-being. Some countries have published dietary reference intakes (DRIs), whereas some academic organizations have provided scientific evidence on dietary methods, such as traditional diets. Recently, more user-friendly methods have been introduced; the Health Star Rating system and Optimized Nutri-Dense Meals are examples from Australia and Japan, respectively. Both organizations adopt a novel approach that incorporates nudges. This review summarizes the science communication regarding food policies, guidelines, and novel methods in Japan and other countries. In the food policies section, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the DRIs and food-based guidelines published by the government. Dietary methods widely known, such as The Mediterranean diet, Nordic diet, Japanese traditional diet, and the EAT-Lancet guidelines, were also reviewed. Finally, we discussed future methods of science communications, such as nudge.

Combined Exercise and Diet Induce Airway Hyperreactivity While Reducing Liver Steatosis in Mice with Diet-Induced Obesity.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a multi-organ system disease, which is associated with, e.g., a higher prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and asthma. Little is known regarding the effect of obesity-related parameters (including liver integrity) and the respiratory phenotype after a combination of physical activity and diet. METHODS: Thirty-two C57BL/6 mice were, after 27 weeks of a high fat diet (HFD), randomly assigned to two dietary interventions for three weeks: a HFD or a normal chow diet (NCD). In both dietary groups, half of the animals were subjected to a sub-maximal exercise protocol. Lung function, lung inflammation, liver histology, and metabolic profile were determined. RESULTS: Mice with obesity did not show airway hyperreactivity after methacholine provocation. Sub-maximal exercise with diet (NCD/E) induced a significant reduction in forced expiratory volume in 0.1 s after methacholine provocation. NCD/E had significantly more neutrophils and inflammation (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-17F) in bronchoalveolar lavage compared to non-exercising mice on a HFD (HFD/NE). However, more epithelial injury (serum surfactant protein D and IL-33) was seen in HFD/NE. Additionally, hepatic steatosis and fibrosis were reduced by combined diet and sub-maximal exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Combining sub-maximal exercise with diet induced airway hyperreactivity and pulmonary inflammation, while body weight, hepatic steatosis, and fibrosis improved.

Polyphenols in Cereals: State of the Art of Available Information and Its Potential Use in Epidemiological Studies.

Cereals are the basis of much of the world's daily diet. Recently, there has been considerable interest in the beneficial properties of wholegrains due to their content of phytochemicals, particularly polyphenols. Despite this, the existing data on polyphenolic composition of cereal-based foods reported in the most comprehensive databases are still not updated. Many cereal-based foods and phenolic compounds are missing, including pigmented ones. Observational epidemiological studies reporting the intake of polyphenols from cereals are limited and inconsistent, although experimental studies suggest a protective role for dietary polyphenols against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Estimating polyphenol intake is complex because of the large number of compounds present in foods and the many factors that affect their levels, such as plant variety, harvest season, food processing and cooking, making it difficult matching consumption data with data on food composition. Further, it should be taken into account that food composition tables and consumed foods are categorized in different ways. The present work provides an overview of the available data on polyphenols content reported in several existing databases, in terms of presence, missing and no data, and discusses the strengths and weaknesses of methods for assessing cereal polyphenol consumption. Furthermore, this review suggests a greater need for the inclusion of most up-to-date cereal food composition data and for the harmonization of standardized procedures in collecting cereal-based food data and adequate assessment tools for dietary intake.

Investigating Water Balance as a Nutritional Determinant in Breastfeeding: A Comparative Study of Water Consumption Patterns and Influencing Factors.

BACKGROUND: Ensuring adequate hydration is critical for breastfeeding women, yet their water consumption patterns and hydration status is poorly understood. This study investigates the water consumption patterns and estimated water balance among women, practicing exclusive, mixed, and no breastfeeding methods. METHODS: 529 healthy women completed the Nursing Water Balanced Questionnaire (N-WBQ). Participants were distributed across breastfeeding groups as follows: exclusive (39.7%), mixed (31.9%), and no breastfeeding (28.4%). RESULTS: Significant differences were noted in water consumption patterns among breastfeeding groups regarding intake from beverages (p < 0.001), juices (p = 0.019), coffee (p < 0.001), and milk (p = 0.015). Water intake from liquids, except for drinking water (p < 0.001), juices (p = 0.024) and coffee (p < 0.001) differed significantly among groups in women with adequate total water intake based on recommendation, with exclusive breastfeeding mothers prioritizing plain water over other beverages. Total water loss (p < 0.001) and estimated water balance (p < 0.001) significantly varied among breastfeeding groups, with exclusive breastfeeding mothers to exhibit the lowest water balance (-475.36 mL/day), indicating potential dehydration risk. Apart from plain water, water from foods, coffee and milk significantly contributed to positive water balance. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight a risk of dehydration in this population, while water consumption patterns are influenced by breastfeeding method, likely affected by varying lactational demands and lifestyle factors. Further research to develop more accurate and individualized methods for assessing water balance in breastfeeding women is needed.

Human exposure to endocrine-disrupting organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides in locally produced and imported honey in Nigeria.

The practice of exposing honeybees to pesticides by bee-keepers or via agricultural crops, is one of the ways in which honey becomes contaminated with pesticides. Though honey has many health advantages, however, human exposure to pesticides via consumption of honey has generated public health concerns due to their endocrine-disruptive abilities. Thus, this study evaluated human exposure to endocrine-disrupting pesticides in honey from Nigeria to establish the safety of honey consumed in Nigeria. Honey were analyzed for pesticides using a gas chromatograph combined with an electron capture detector. The concentrations of ∑20 OCPs and ∑14 OPPs in the honey ranged from 0.45-1045 ng/g and 1.13-632 ng/g respectively. The values of both individual and cumulative non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks for humans were <1 and 1 × 10-4 respectively suggesting that there are no potential health risks via the honey consumption. The source analysis showed that pesticides in these honey originated from historical and recent/fresh use.