Chemical characterization, in vivo safety profile and effects of the extract from unconventional food plant Acca sellowiana (O. BERG) Burret on endothelial cells under glucose overload.

"Guava" (Acca sellowiana) is an unconventional edible plant from Brazil. It is used in traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic; however, pharmacological studies on this plant are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical and safety profile of an aqueous A. sellowiana peel extract (ASPE) and its effects on endothelial EA.hy926 cells under glucose overload and in vivo (Artemia salina). An ethanolic extract from A. sellowiana peels (ASPEetOH) was also produced and characterized. Results showed that ASPE did not present in vivo toxicity, and it was found to contain high phenolic content and redox capacity. ASPE (50 µg/mL; 24 h) prevented oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, besides positively modulating Sirtuins 1 and 3, and prevented the increase of COX-2 and NF-kß expression levels in EA.hy926 cells under glucose overload. Chromatographic fractionation, metabolite profiling, spectroscopic and bioinformatics analyses revealed the presence of phenolic acids, flavan-3-ols, flavonols, flavones, flavanones, and anthocyanidins, displaying a diversity of compounds in the crude and fractionated ASPEetOH. This study provided evidence on the safety profile, chemical composition, and pharmacological activities of A. sellowiana.

Exploring the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Low-Cost Commercial Disinfectants Utilized in the Agro-Food Industry Wash Tanks: Towards Enhanced Hygiene Practices.

The increase in vegetable consumption has underlined the importance of minimizing the risks associated with microbiological contamination of fresh produce. The critical stage of the vegetable washing process has proven to be a key point for cross-contamination and the persistence of pathogens. In this context, the agri-food industry has widely adopted the use of disinfectants to reduce the bacterial load in the wash water. Therefore, we conducted laboratory-scale experiments in order to demonstrate the antimicrobial activity of disinfectants used in the wash tank of agro-food industries. Different wash water matrices of shredded lettuce, shredded cabbage, diced onion, and baby spinach were treated with sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), chlorine dioxide (ClO2), and per-oxyacetic acid (PAA) at recommended concentrations. To simulate the presence of pathogenic bacteria, a cocktail of E. coli O157:H7 was inoculated into the process water samples (PWW) to determine whether concentrations of disinfectants inhibit the pathogen or bring it to a viable non-culturable state (VBNC). Hereby, we used quantitative qPCR combined with different photo-reactive dyes such as ethidium monoazide (EMA) and propidium monoazide (PMA). The results indicated that concentrations superior to 20 ppm NaClO inhibit the pathogen E. coli O157:H7 artificially inoculated in the process water. Concentrations between 10-20 ppm ClO2 fail to induce the pathogen to the VBNC state. At concentrations of 80 ppm PAA, levels of culturable bacteria and VBNC of E. coli O157:H7 were detected in all PWWs regardless of the matrix. Subsequently, this indicates that the recommended concentrations of ClO2 and PAA for use in the fresh produce industry wash tank do not inhibit the levels of E. coli O157:H7 present in the wash water.

Large-scale production of non-conventional edible plants for biodiverse school meals.

Introduction: School feeding programs are important for ensuring food security and promoting child health and development, particularly in low-income countries. In view of this importance, it is possible to increase the quality of these meals by diversifying the vegetables offered and incorporating underutilized plants to improve dietary diversity and nutritional quality into school meals. Methods: This study was carried out using the action research methodology following the implementation and development of the "Inova na Horta" project in the city of Jundiaí, São Paulo, Brazil. The project was based on the existing and functioning physical and organizational structure of a municipal organic farm. Vegetables were selected from among 210 non-conventional species and varieties, which were further selected for continuous production based on 8 nutritional, culinary and cultivation criteria. Results: Thirty-four vegetables were selected for continuous cultivation and provisions to the school kitchens. Nine tons of vegetables were produced and provided to 90 municipal schools from 2020-2023. Leafy vegetables accounted for most the production, with a total weight of 6441 kg corresponding to 71.6% of the total harvest. Kitchen teams were trained throughout the project duration. Discussion: The feasibility of the production and culinary use of 34 biodiverse, nutrient-rich and underutilized food vegetables for school meals was demonstrated. The selected vegetables are nutrient-rich and contain higher amounts of minerals and proteins than the control vegetables (conventional vegetables), thus complementing several nutrients in school meals. This methodology can be replicated by municipalities of various sizes as a public policy of food and nutritional security associated with the valorization of local biodiversity.

First report of Pectobacterium brasiliense causing soft rot on leaf mustard in China.

Leaf mustard (Brassica juncea [L.] Czern. et Coss.) belongs to Brassicaceae and is an important leaf vegetable widely cultivated in the Yangtze River basin and various southern provinces in China. In August 2023, the rhizome decay symptoms were observed at the stem base of leaf mustard plants (cv. Huarong) in the field of Changde City (29.05 °N; 111.59 °E), Hunan Province, China. The incidence of symptomatic leaf mustard was approximately 30% in several fields (2 ha in total). Brown and water-soaked symptoms appeared at the base of the outer leaves, and hollow rot at the base of the stem, accompanied by a fishy odor. To identify the causal agent, six infected stem samples were collected and surface sterilized by soaking in 75% ethanol for 60 seconds, rinsed three times with sterile distilled water, and finally cut into pieces (5 × 5 mm) in the sterile water. The extract was streaked on nutrient agar medium. After incubation at 28°C for 24 h, 17 strains were obtained and the colonies of all strains were creamy white, roughly circular, and convex elevation. Six single bacterial strains JC23121001-JC23121006, individually isolated from six different diseased stem samples, were selected as representative strains for further study. For preliminary identification, DNA from the six strains was extracted and identified by 16S rDNA sequencing using the universal primer pair 27F/1492R (Weisburg et al. 1991), and the sequences (accession nos. PP784484 to PP784489) showed 99% query coverage and 99.65% identity to Pectobacterium brasiliense type strain IBSBF1692T (Nabhan et al. 2012). In addition, five housekeeping genes acnA, mdh, mltD, pgi, and proA of the six strains were amplified with specially designed primers (Ma et al. 2007), and the resulting sequences from all six strains were 100% identical. The sequences of the representative strain JC23121001 were deposited into GenBank with accession numbers PP108247, PP066857, PP108248, PP066858, and PP066860, respectively. The maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree clustered JC23121001 with P. brasiliense type strain IBSBF1692T (Nabhan et al. 2012). The pathogenicity test of six strains was carried out on the six-week-old leaf mustard (cv. Huarong) plants grown in the greenhouse by inoculating 10 µl of each bacterial suspension (108 CFU/ml) on needle-like wounds on the stem base of three healthy leaf mustard plants (Singh et al. 2013). Control plants were treated with sterile distilled water. After inoculation, the plants were incubated at 28°C and 90% relative humidity in a growth chamber. This trial was repeated three times. All inoculated mustard stems were slightly water-soaked after 24 hours and eventually developed into soft rot symptoms, consistent with the original symptoms observed. The control plants remained symptom-free. The strains were re-isolated from inoculated plants and re-identified as P. brasiliense by sequencing five housekeeping genes, thus fulfilling Koch's postulates. P. brasiliense has a broad host range and has been reported on other Brassica species, such as Bok choy (Brassica rapa var. chinensis) in China (Li et al. 2023). Soft rot of leaf mustard caused by Pectobacterium aroidearum has also been reported previously (Chu et al. 2023). To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. brasiliense causing soft rot on leaf mustard in China. The soft rot poses a significant threat to the local leaf mustard industry and requires further research into epidemiology and disease management options.

Impacto del consumo de frutas y verduras en el riesgo de desarrollo de la preeclampsia: una revisión sistemática

Introducción: La preeclampsia es una afectación multisistémica que contribuye a la morbilidad y mortalidad materna junto con importantes complicaciones fetales. Dado que se ha observado que el consumo de frutas y vegetales posee un efecto beneficioso en la reducción del riesgo de enfermedades cardiovasculares, el consumo de estos alimentos también podría reducir el riesgo de desarrollo de preeclampsia en la mujer embarazada. Objetivo: Analizar el impacto del consumo de frutas y vegetales en el riesgo de desarrollo de preeclampsia en la mujer embarazada. Metodología: Se ha realizado una revisión sistemática siguiendo la metodología PRISMA. Las bases de datos utilizadas fueron Scopus, Pubmed y Web of Science. Se han incluido artículos publicados en los últimos cinco años, escritos en inglés o español y de acceso gratuito. La calidad metodológica se evaluó mediante la escala de STROBE y MINCIR. Resultados: Se han seleccionado nueve artículos para dar respuesta al objetivo planteado. El porcentaje de gestantes con un patrón dietético basado en frutas y vegetales que desarrolla preeclampsia es relativamente bajo, oscilando entre el 7 y el 8,8%. Así mismo, la mayoría de los estudios seleccionados muestran que la ingesta de frutas y vegetales tiene un efecto protector en el desarrollo de preeclampsia y, que este efecto protector es directamente proporcional al número de raciones consumidas de estos alimentos. Conclusiones: La literatura disponible para analizar el impacto que tiene el consumo de frutas y vegetales en el riesgo de desarrollo de preeclampsia es muy limitada. Por ello, se insta a realizar más investigaciones sobre este tema para poder aportar unos resultados más robustos.

Introduction: Preeclampsia is a multisystem affectation that contributes to maternal morbidity and mortality along with important fetal complications. Since it has been observed that the consumption of fruits and vegetables has a beneficial effect in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, the consumption of these foods could also reduce the risk and development of preeclampsia in pregnant women. Objective: To analyze the impact of fruit and vegetable consumption on the risk of development of preeclampsia in pregnant women. Methodology: A systematic review has been carried out following the PRISMA methodology. The databases used were Scopus, Pubmed and Web of Science. Articles published in the last five years, written in English or Spanish and with free access have been included. Methodological quality was assessed using the STROBE and MINCIR scales. Results: There have been selected nine articles to provide a response to the proposed objective. The percentage of pregnant women with a dietary pattern based on fruits and vegetables who develop preeclampsia is relatively low, ranging between 7 and 8.8%. Likewise, most of the selected studies show that the intake of fruits and vegetables has a protective effect on the development of preeclampsia and that this protective effect is directly proportional to the number of servings consumed of these foods. Conclusions: The literature available to analyze the impact that fruit and vegetable consumption has on the risk and development of preeclampsia is very limited. Therefore, more research on this topic is urged to provide more robust results.

Occurrence of parasites in waters used for crops irrigation and vegetables from the Savannah of Bogotá, Colombia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established as a criterion of parasitological quality for irrigation water, ≤ 1 helminth egg/liter, which guarantees the safety in agricultural products. In this study, the presence of parasites in surface water used for irrigation of crops (n = 96) and vegetables (celery and lettuce) (n = 120), from the Former La Ramada irrigation district, was evaluated using conventional and molecular parasitological methods. Our findings showed contamination of irrigation systems in the study area with domestic wastewater, demonstrated by the presence of Ancylostomatidae eggs, Ascaris spp., Hymenolepis spp., Trichuris spp., Capillaria spp., Giardia spp. cysts, and oocysts of Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium spp. A prevalence of 33% and 23.3% was calculated for helminths and protozoa, respectively in vegetables, representing a possible risk to human and animal health in relation to these parasites. These findings show the need for continuous monitoring of the water quality used for crop irrigation, as well as the safety of food, taking into account the values established in national and international regulations.

Are organics more nutritious than conventional foods? A comprehensive systematic review.

The growing consumer interest fueled by the belief in the superiority of organic foods raises questions about their actual nutritional superiority over conventional ones. This assumption remains a controversial issue. The present study addresses scientific evidence to clarify this controversy and provide relevant insights for informed decision-making regarding dietary choices. We collected 147 scientific articles containing 656 comparative analyses based on 1779 samples of 68 vegetable, fruit, and other (cereals, pulses, etc.) foods, 22 nutritional properties, and nine residues. Results show that in 191 (29.1%) comparisons, there were significant differences between organic and conventional foods. In a similar quantity of cases (190; 29.0%), there were divergences in the results since some studies reported significant differences while others did not. Finally, most of the comparative analyses (275; 41.9%) showed no significant difference between organic and conventional foods. Therefore, the results herein show no generalizable superiority of organic over conventional foods. Claims for nutritious advantages would eventually be applied to specific comparisons, depending on the food type and nutritional parameter.

First Report of Golovinomyces bolayi Causing Powdery Mildew on Lettuce in Mexico.

In August 2022, powdery mildew symptoms were detected on lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in a commercial field located in Quecholac, Puebla, Mexico. Signs appeared as whitish powdery masses on leaves. Disease incidence was about 100% and signs covered up to 40% of leaf surface. Mycelium was amphigenous forming white patches. Hyphal appressoria were indistinct or nipple-shaped and solitary. Conidiophores (n= 30) were hyaline, erect, arising from the upper surface of hyphal mother cells or lateral, and of 90 to 201 µm long. Foot cells were cylindrical, of 49 to 92 × 10-15 µm, followed by 1-3 shorter cells, and forming conidia in chains. Conidia (n= 100) were hyaline, ellipsoid-ovoid, doliiform-subcylindrical, 27 to 40 × 14 to 20 µm. Conidial germination belonging to the Euoidium type. Chasmothecia were not observed. The morphological characters were consistent with those of Golovinomyces bolayi (Braun et al. 2019). A voucher specimen was deposited in the Herbarium of the Department of Agricultural Parasitology at the Chapingo Autonomous University under accession number UACH451. To confirm the identification of the fungus, genomic DNA was extracted from conidia and mycelium following the CTAB method (Doyle and Doyle 1990), and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was amplified by PCR using the primers ITS5/ITS4 (White et al. 1990) and sequenced. The resulting 506 bp sequence had 100% identity to those of G. bolayi (LC417109 and LC417106). Phylogenetic analyses using the Maximum Likelihood and Maximum Parsimony methods were performed and confirmed the results obtained in the morphological analysis. The isolate UACH451 grouped in a clade with isolates of G. bolayi. The ITS sequence was deposited in GenBank under accession number OR467546. Pathogenicity was confirmed by gently dusting conidia onto ten leaves of healthy lettuce plants. Five non-inoculated leaves served as controls. The plants were maintained in a greenhouse at 25 to 30 ºC, and relative humidity of 70%. All inoculated leaves developed similar symptoms to the original observation after 10 days, whereas control leaves remained disease free. Microscopic examination of the fungus on inoculated leaves showed that it was morphologically identical to that originally observed. Based on morphological data and phylogenetic analysis, the fungus was identified as G. bolayi. This pathogen has been previously reported causing powdery mildew on lettuce in Argentina, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, USA and Venezuela (Braun et al. 2019; Mieslerová et al. 2020). To our knowledge, this is the first report of G. bolayi causing powdery mildew on lettuce in Mexico.

Investigating processing practices and microbiological quality of minimally processed vegetables in Brazil.

Minimally processed vegetables (MPVs) are marketed as convenient and healthy choices for consumers. However, the absence of post-commercialization treatments raises concerns about their microbiological safety. This study investigated the processing practices of 28 Brazilian MPV plants and compared the microbiological quality of these products with fresh counterparts in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Through cluster analysis, the processing plants were categorized into two groups: group 1 (nineteen plants) primarily uses chemical substances in the washing step, while group 2 (nine plants) avoids chemical use but employs similar rinsing practices. Microbiological analysis of 100 samples (49 unprocessed and 51 MPVs) revealed no significant differences in microbial group counts (Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, and E. coli) between the in natura (unprocessed) and MPV products. However, the prevalence of E. coli was higher in natura vegetables than in MPVs. The results indicated the presence of Salmonella DNA (from either dead or live cells or residual DNA) in 4 samples (3 in natura and 1 MPV) using conventional PCR, suggesting the presence of the pathogen in these samples. Listeria monocytogenes was absent, but Listeria innocua was found in two unprocessed products. The study suggests that certain MPVs have microbial loads similar to unprocessed vegetables, potentially serving as carriers for pathogen transmission. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding practices in Brazilian MPV processing plants, informing the implementation of control measures to improve MPV safety and shelf-life, thus ensuring microbiological safety.

Predicting the impact of temperature and relative humidity on Salmonella growth and survival in sliced chard, broccoli and red cabbage.

This study assessed the fate of a Salmonella enterica cocktail (S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, S. Newport, S. Agona and S. Anatum; initial counts 3.5 log CFU/g) in minimally processed sliced chard, broccoli and red cabbage at 16 conditions of different temperature (7, 14, 21 and 37 °C) and relative humidity (RH; 15, 35, 65 and 95%) over six days (144 h). Linear regression was used to estimate the rate change of Salmonella in cut vegetables as a function of temperature and relative humidity (RH). R2 value of 0.85, 0.87, and 0.78 were observed for the rates of change in chard, broccoli, and red cabbage, respectively. The interaction between temperature and RH was significant in all sliced vegetables. Higher temperatures and RH values favored Salmonella growth. As temperature or RH decreased, the rate of S. enterica change varied by vegetable. The models developed here can improve risk management of Salmonella in fresh cut vegetables.

First report of cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus infecting cucurbit crops in Jamaica.

The increasing prevalence of whitefly-transmitted viruses affecting cucurbit crops has emerged as a significant concern for global cucurbit production. Two of the most widely prevalent threats in the Americas are cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV) and cucurbit chlorotic yellows virus (CCYV) (Crinivirus, Closteroviridae). These viruses induce similar foliar symptoms on cucurbit crops (Mondal et al., 2023) leading to loss of photosynthetic capability and decreased yields. Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) are major cucurbit crops in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, which is the principal fruit and vegetable producing region of the country. In August 2018, foliar symptoms were observed on cantaloupe, watermelon, and cucumber plants in several commercial farms in St. Elizabeth. These symptoms, mainly on the older leaves, consisted of severe yellowing or interveinal mottle and they appeared more pronounced on cantaloupe and cucumber plants compared to watermelon. Growers noticed the production of smaller than normal fruit. Disease incidence ranged from 10 to 100% and whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius) were observed in the fields. To identify virus(es) associated with the disease, six plants (cantaloupe [n = 3], cucumber [n = 1] and watermelon [n = 2) exhibiting symptoms were sampled from four fields for preliminary screening. Total RNA was extracted from leaf tissues as described in Tamang et al. (2021) and samples tested by a multiplex reverse transcription RT-PCR method that targeted the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of the whitefly transmitted viruses, CYSDV, CCYV, squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV), and the aphid- transmitted cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus (CABYV) (Mondal et al. 2023). RT-PCR amplified the expected 494-bp fragment of the CYSDV RdRp gene (Mondal et al., 2023) from two symptomatic plants; one cantaloupe, one cucumber, as well as from CYSDV-infected control plants but not from healthy controls. Further testing was conducted during the June-August 2020 growing season after similar symptoms were observed on additional farms in St. Elizabeth and two regions, Manchester and Clarendon, located to the east of St. Elizabeth. Twenty-one cucurbit leaf samples (11 cantaloupe, seven watermelon and two cucumber from St. Elizabeth and one cantaloupe from Clarendon) exhibiting foliar yellowing progressing from the crown outward, and mottling were collected. Whiteflies (5) from these fields in St. Elizabeth and 20 asymptomatic weed samples were also collected and sent to the USDA-ARS laboratory at Salinas, CA. Total RNA from leaf samples was extracted as described above and tested for CYSDV, CCYV, and CABYV. Total leaf DNA was also extracted (Mondal et al. 2016) and assayed with PCR (Gilbertson 2001) to detect the presence of the whitefly-transmitted cucurbit leaf crumple virus (CuLCrV), a begomovirus, commonly found in the southeastern United States (Gadhave et al., 2018; Keinath et al., 2018). Nineteen of the 21 cucurbit samples tested positive for the presence of CYSDV by RT-PCR (Mondal et al. 2023). Of the 19 CYSDV-positive samples, 13 cantaloupe, one cucumber, and five watermelon samples were singly infected with CYSDV, and one cantaloupe sample was infected with both CYSDV and CABYV. Amplicons of the Jamaica isolate from cantaloupe were sequenced (OR399555) and a 494 nt section of the RdRp gene was found to share 100% sequence identity to the Arizona 1 isolate (EF547827.1). The presence of CYSDV, was further confirmed using a second set of primers that amplified a 394-nt portion of the CYSDV coat protein gene (Polston et al., 2008). Among the weed samples, CABYV was detected in one sample from a Leonotis nepetifolia plant (Lamiaceae) and two Cleome sp. (Capparaceae) collected from St. Elizabeth. None of the crop and weed samples tested positive for CCYV or CuLCrV. DNA from whiteflies was extracted and assayed with PCR using species specific primers (Chen et al. 2016). All whiteflies were identified as B. tabaci cryptic species MEAM1, which is widely known an efficient vector of CYSDV (Berdiales, et al. 1999). This is the first report of CYSDV in Jamaica and its first known occurrence in these hosts within the country. Further monitoring of cucurbit crops and the whitefly vector is warranted to better understand the epidemiology.

Understanding the relations between Solanaceae crops and their pollinators: a global meta-network.

Crop-pollinator interactions are essential for world food security. Studying crop pollination from a network approach allows identification of target pollinators for conservation and management, and gaps in our knowledge. Solanaceae represents the third highest ranked family based on economic value, and its production is highly improved by animal pollination. This study aimed to integrate global data on solanaceous crop pollination and analyse the interaction patterns using a meta-network approach. Our questions were: (i) how are interactions structured and what are the structuring roles of species; and (ii) what are the main gaps in our knowledge? Data were obtained through a systematic review of the main scientific databases. The network structure was described using connectivity and modularity calculations, and the role of species using centrality metrics. The 251 pollinator species reported were in seven orders, mainly Hymenoptera (84.9%). The generalists Bombus and Apis species were the most common pollinators. The meta-network was modular, and all modules mostly included bees. Most species were peripherals, around 12% were connectors, and there were no module hubs. Apis mellifera was the only network hub (supergeneralist). The most important pollinators are the most managed pollinators worldwide; however, many native species play a role in structuring the meta-network. Main gaps include species of importance to pepper pollination, lack of species-specific identification, and the need for more robust experimental studies evaluating the pollination efficiency of native, manageable bees.

How Do Brazilian Consumers Understand Food Groups in the Food-based Dietary Guidelines?

In the Food-based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs), food classification is based on food groups and nutrient sources. Much research has already investigated multiple aspects of consumer understanding of the information described in these documents. However, no study has evaluated consumer understanding of all food items contained in the groups described in the FBDGs. This study aimed to assess Brazilian consumers' understanding of food classification according to food groups in the concepts of the FBDGs. Therefore, an instrument, Consumer Understanding of Food Groups (UFG), was constructed and validated to assess consumer understanding of food groups. The instrument comprised 44 items approved by experts (agreement > 80%). A total of 894 Brazilians from all regions participated in this study. The results suggest that 48.9% of the participants believe it is easier to classify food according to food groups. The classification of food groups is based on the origin of the food (animal and vegetable). Although consumers easily recognize foods according to their origin, we still identify asymmetries regarding including food items from the animal kingdom and species from the plant kingdom. This exploratory study highlights important information that can contribute to improving the FBDGs. It is essential to consider consumers' understanding and guide them regarding choices from a technical point of view.

Income and education level trajectories and changes in the daily consumption of vegetables after thirteen years of follow-up: the Pró-Saúde Study / Trajetórias de renda e nível de educação e mudanças no consumo diário de vegetais após treze anos de acompanhamento: Estudo Pró-Saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to examine whether education level and income trajectories influence vegetable consumption changes over 13 years among civil servants at different campuses of a university in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods: Vegetable intake frequency (daily and non-daily consumption), income (per capita), and education level (maintenance of low schooling/ upward mobility/maintenance of high schooling) were assessed at baseline (1999) and in the fourth wave (2011-12) of the Pró-Saúde (Pro-Health) cohort study. A total of 2,381 participants were analyzed. The association between educational and income trajectories and variation in vegetable consumption was assessed via crude and age-adjusted generalized linear models, stratified by sex. Results: Men in upward educational mobility showed a 0.5% increase in vegetable consumption (p=0.01), while women in this group demonstrated a 2.5% increase (p=0.05). Adjusted models showed that women who reduced their income had a lower likelihood of consuming vegetables (odds ratio [OR] 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89-0.97). Conclusions: The findings highlight the influence of social inequalities on vegetable consumption in adults.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se as trajetórias do nível de educação e de renda influenciam na mudança do consumo de vegetais ao longo de 13 anos entre funcionários públicos de diferentes campi de uma universidade do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Métodos: A frequência de consumo de vegetais (consumo diário e não diário), a renda (per capita) e o nível de educação (manutenção da baixa escolaridade/mobilidade ascendente/ manutenção da alta escolaridade) foram avaliados no início (1999) e na quarta onda (2011-12) do estudo de coorte Pró-Saúde. Foram analisados 2.381 participantes, e a associação entre as trajetórias de escolaridade e renda e a variação no consumo de vegetais foi avaliada via modelos lineares generalizados brutos e ajustados por idade e variação da escolaridade e estratificados por sexo. Resultados: Homens em mobilidade educacional ascendente apresentaram aumento de 0,5% no consumo de vegetais (p=0,01), enquanto mulheres nesse grupo demonstraram aumento de 2,5% (p=0,05). Modelos ajustados mostraram que mulheres que reduziram sua renda apresentaram menor probabilidade de consumir vegetais (odds ratio [OR] 0,93; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95% 0,89-0,97). Conclusão: Os achados destacam a influência das desigualdades sociais no consumo de vegetais em adultos.

A longitudinal analysis of the fluctuation of food stores in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Changes in food environments have the potential to affect consumption, nutritional status, and health, and understanding these changes is of utmost importance. This study, therefore, aimed to examine the fluctuation of food stores that sell fruits and vegetables over five years in the health promotion service area of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: This was an ecological study that used data from a food environment audit conducted in the realm of Brazilian PHC. Buffers of 1 mile (equivalent to 1600 m) were created around health promotion services to define food environments. All food stores and open-air food markets that sold fruits and vegetables (FV) within this buffer area were considered eligible. The data collection was performed during two periods: the baseline, in 2013, and after five years, in 2018. This study compares the fluctuation by the type of stores and according to the health vulnerability index (HVI). RESULTS: After 5 years, 35.2% of the stores were stable; 154 stores were closed, and 155 were opened. The stability was greater in low-vulnerability areas, and the fluctuation differed by type of store only for areas with high vulnerability. The number of supermarket decreased in high HVI territories; and local stores, showed greater stability when compared to specialized FV markets. CONCLUSIONS: The differences in store fluctuations according to the vulnerability of areas demonstrate the importance of food supply policies considering the local characteristics to reduce inequities of access to healthy foods.

Factors associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables in latin american university students

Objective: Explore the association between compliance with recommended consumption (5-a-day) of fruits and vegetables (F&V) with sociodemographic factors of university students of Latin America. Subjects: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in which 4,880 university students from 10 Latin American countries completed a self-administered online survey. Methods: F&V consumption and other sociodemographic variables were measured according to a validated survey. Body mass index was self-reported. Ordinal logistic regression models were applied. Results: Regarding the consumption of F&V, 4.7% of men complied with the recommendation, while in women this value reached 7.7%. In the adjusted model, having a normal weight (OR= 0.59; 95% CI 0.44-0.7; p=<0.001), being female (OR= 0.67; 95% CI 0.49-0.89; p=<0.01), being enrolled in a health-related degree program (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0.001), having professional parents (OR= 0.75; 95% CI 0.60-0.95; p=<0.05) and practicing physical activity (OR= 0.34; 95% CI 0.27-0.42; p=<0.001) were associated with compliance to F&V consumption recommendations. In the analysis by country, physical activity was the variable most associated with F&V consumption. Conclusion: We observed a low consumption of F&V in university students. The variables associated with compliance to the F&V recommendation were being normal weight, female, being enrolled in a health-related degree program, having professional parents, and practicing physical activity, the latter being the most important variable.

Objetivo: Explorar la asociación de la frecuencia de cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de consumo (5 al día) de frutas y verduras (F&V) con factores sociodemográficos de estudiantes universitarios de América Latina. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico con 4.880 estudiantes universitarios de 10 países de América Latina, quienes completaron una encuesta en línea autoadministrada. Se midió el consumo de F&V y otras variables sociodemográficas según una encuesta previamente validada. El índice de masa corporal fue autoinformado. Se aplicaron modelos de regresión logística ordinal. Resultados: En cuanto al consumo de F&V, en los hombres el 4,7% cumple con la recomendación, mientras que en las mujeres este valor alcanza el 7,7%. En el modelo más ajustado, presentar normopeso (OR= 0,59; IC 95% 0,44-0,7; p=<0,001), ser mujer (OR= 0,67; IC 95% 0,49-0,89; p=<0,01), estar matriculado en carrera relacionada con la salud (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0,001), tener padres profesionales (OR= 0,75; IC 95% 0,60-0,95; p=<0,05) y realizar actividad física (OR= 0,34; IC 95% 0,27-0,42; p=<0,001) fueron las variables asociadas al cumplimiento del consumo de F&V. En el análisis por país, la actividad física fue la variable más asociada al consumo de F&V. Conclusión: Se observa un bajo consumo de F&V en estudiantes universitarios, y entre las variables asociadas al cumplimiento de la recomendación de F&V se encuentran estar normopeso, sexo femenino, estar cursando una carrera relacionada con la salud, tener los padres y la práctica de actividad física, siendo esta última la variable más importante.

Occurrence of Aliarcobacter spp. in fresh and pre-cut vegetables of common use in San José, Costa Rica.

Aliarcobacter is a Gram-negative rod that can cause disease in both animals and humans. Several studies have evidenced its presence in a wide variety of foods. Given that the number of foodborne illness outbreaks linked to the consumption of vegetables has increased worldwide and that there is a lack of information about the occurrence of Aliarcobacter spp. in these, the aim of this study was to evaluate its presence and the occurrence of virulence factors in both fresh and ready-to-eat vegetable samples. 180 vegetable samples from Costa Rica were analyzed for the presence of Aliarcobacter spp., including 90 pre-cut vegetable packages and 90 fresh vegetables. Two (2.2%) of the isolates from pre-cut vegetables and 19 (21.1%) of the isolates obtained from fresh vegetables were confirmed as Aliarcobacter spp. One of the isolates from the pre-cut vegetable samples was identified as A. butzleri. For the fresh vegetables, 11 isolates were identified as A. skirrowii, one as A. butzleri, and the 7 remaining isolates could not be identified at a species level. There is an 87.5% positivity for hecA and 93.8% for pldA, virulence genes in strains isolated from fresh produce, contrasting with an absolute absence from pre-cut vegetable-isolated strains. These results evidence the presence of Aliarcobacter on fresh and pre-cut vegetables from Costa Rica and the potential hazard it might represent for public health.

Indole-3-carbinol and chlorogenic acid combination modulates gut microbiome and attenuates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in a murine model.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting almost 32% of the population and ranging from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Recent findings indicate that the fast-growing prevalence of NAFLD might be linked to adherence to a Westernized diet (WD), mostly composed of fat/sugar-enriched foods. The WD has been reportedly targeted as a potential driver of gut-liver axis unbalance, suggesting a major role in NASH. On the other hand, bioactive food compounds feature as a potential chemopreventive strategy against NASH, due to their beneficial effects (i.e, anti-inflammatory/oxidant activity and modulation of gut microbiome). Brassicaceae vegetables are known for their high amount of isothiocyanates and polyphenols, as indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and chlorogenic acid (CGA). Thus, we sought to assess the effects of human relevant doses of I3C and CGA isolated or in combination (5/125 mg/Kg of body weight, respectively) on a diet/chemical-induced murine model of NASH. I3C + CGA oral treatment diminished NAFLD activity score (NAS) (p < 0.0001), as well as alleviated the hepatic lipid (p = 0.0011) accumulation, prevented hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation (p < 0.0001), and subsequent fibrosis (p < 0.0001). The combination also reduced the number of both hepatic CD68-positive macrophages (p < 0.0001) and cleaved caspase-3 hepatocytes (p < 0.0001) and diminished the malondialdehyde levels (p = 0.0155). Additionally, the combination of I3C + CGA restored the relative abundance of Alistipes (p = 0.0299), Allobaculum (p = 0.0014), Bacteroides (p = 0.0046), and Odoribacter (p = 0.0030) bacteria genera on the gut microbiome. Taken together, these findings show that the combination of I3C + CGA at populational-relevant ingestion, rather than the I3C or CGA alone, was able to modulate gut microbiome and attenuate NASH in this hybrid model mouse.

Effect of peeling, cutting, or shredding of lettuce, carrot, or potato on the efficacy of chlorine disinfection.

Minimally processed vegetables are washed and subsequently disinfected by immersion in water solutions with antimicrobials which reduce the initial pathogenic or spoilage microbial load. Chlorine remains one of the most widely used disinfectants for vegetables and hence the importance of studying its properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of peeling, cutting, and shredding on the effectiveness of chlorine (200 ppm) as a disinfectant in lettuce, carrot, and potato. Three independent repetitions of each experiment were completed, and data was statistically analyzed. Results showed that the maintenance of the chlorine concentration in the disinfectant solution, over time, depended on the vegetables' preliminary processing technique (whole, peeled, cut, or shredded) (p < 0.05). In general, the disinfection treatments studied reduced Escherichia coli by 1-8 logs. The addition of chlorine in the disinfectant solution allowed greater reduction in E. coli than using water immersions (p < 0.05) and disinfection times longer than 5 min did not improve these microbiological reductions (p>0.05). The vegetables' subdivision (whole, peeled, cut, or shredded) can affect both E coli's reduction and the vegetables' residual chlorine concentration. No trend was observed in terms of sensory differences and their relationship to the vegetables' processing and disinfection. These results suggest that each facility must validate its disinfection processes, according to the conditions established on site and reduction goals related to initial microbial counts, vegetables' quality, processing operations, and other important aspects.

Evolution of fruit and vegetable intake among health promotion service participants in a Brazilian metropolis: 48-month follow-up of a randomized controlled community trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess longitudinal effects of a nutrition intervention on fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake among Primary Health Care (PHC) service participants in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. METHODS: Demographics and health data on 3414 PHC service participants were collected at baseline in 2013-2014. F&V intake was assessed at baseline, 12, 36, and 48 months until 2017-2018. Services were randomized to control (CG, usual care) or intervention (IG, usual care and a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention to increase F&V intake). We performed difference-in-differences (DiD) analysis to identify intervention effects on F&V intake, and sensitivity analyses of participants observed at all timepoints. RESULTS: Participants were mostly middle-aged, low-income women. Mean baseline intakes were 168.7 g of fruit, 202.0 g of vegetables, and 370.7 g of F&V, with lower fruit in the IG (164.1 g) than the CG (172.3 g). At 12 months, the intervention increased fruit intake in the IG and fruit and F&V intake among individuals with low baseline F&V intake. Fruit intake remained higher at 36 months in the IG. No effect on vegetable intake was identified. According to sensitivity analyses, effects on fruit intake among the complete sample did not remain significant at 36 months, and an effect on fruit intake at 36 months was identified among those with adequate baseline F&V intake. Reductions in F&V intake did not remain significant. CONCLUSIONS: At 12 months, a TTM-based intervention increased fruit intake in the overall sample, and fruit and F&V intake among individuals with low baseline intakes. Repeated interventions may be needed over time. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: RBR-9h7ckx.