Dietary Intake of Macro and Micro-Minerals among Participants with Alexithymia in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study / Ingesta dietética de macro y microminerales entre participantes con alexitimia en Jordania: un estudio transversal

Introduction: Alexithymia is a condition characterized by inability in explaining and describing feelings, distinguishing bodily sensations, and expressing feelings toward others. The relationships between alexithymia and dietary intakes of minerals among Jordanian people have not been well-characterized. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the associations between dietary intakes of macro- and micro-minerals and alexithymia.Methods: Seven hundred and fifty three Jordanian adults completed face-to-face interviews through cross-sectional study conducted among voluntary participants aged 18-64 years. Every participant was asked to fill in questionnaires regarding their socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and dietary intakes. The 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) was used for measuring alexithymia among participants. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS (version 25). Statistical significance was set at p-value <0.05.Results: Findings of the study indicated that about 10.4% of Jordanian adults classified with having alexithymia with scores of (TAS-20) Scale ≥ 61. Females, participants with monthly incomes higher than 700 JOD, participants with low educational levels, and obese participants scored significantly higher scores of (TAS-20) scale in comparison to other groups for each variable. Odds ratios for associations between alexithymia quartiles of dietary intake of minerals were calculated after adjusting for gender, education level, physical activity, and BMI. By comparing highest intake (Quartile 4) with the lowest intake (Quartile 1), adjusted odds ratios have shown that two macro-minerals (calcium and magnesium) and three micro-minerals (iron, zinc, and selenium) have significant negative association with alexithymia.Conclusion: The distribution of alexithymia among Jordanian adults was very low. Mental conditions require appropriate dietary interventions that assure the maintaining of..(AU)

Comprehensive review of melatonin as a promising nutritional and nutraceutical supplement.

Background: Melatonin is an indoleamine hormone secreted by the pineal gland at night and has an essential role in regulating human circadian rhythms (the internal 24-h clock) and sleep-wake patterns. However, it has recently gained considerable attention for its demonstrated ability in disease management. This review discusses the major biological activities of melatonin, its metabolites as nutritional supplements, and its bioavailability in food sources. Methods: The information acquisition process involved conducting a comprehensive search across academic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Wiley, Embase, and Springer using relevant keywords. Only the most recent, peer-reviewed articles published in the English language were considered for inclusion. Results: The molecular mechanisms by which melatonin induces its therapeutic effects have been the subject of various studies. Conclusion: While melatonin was initially understood to only regulate circadian rhythms, recent studies indicate that it has a far-reaching effect on various organs and physiological systems, such as immunity, cardiovascular function, antioxidant defense, and lipid hemostasis. As a potent antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory agent, multiple therapeutic applications have been proposed for melatonin.

The Use of Bone Density Scan in Monitoring Treatment Response in Patients Diagnosed with Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Osteoporosis is characterized as a metabolic bone disease defined by low bone mineral density (BMD) and bone tissue degeneration, particularly a reduction in the number of trabeculae and a drop in cortical bone thickness, and a rise in porosity, which is mainly due to an imbalance between bone resorption and formation. As a result, it increases bone fragility, and the susceptibility to fracture increases, especially among the elderly. The objective is to assess the effectiveness of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan in monitoring the response to osteoporosis treatment and compare the scan's response to different osteoporosis treatments. This retrospective cohort study included 51 adults selected from 300 patients diagnosed with osteoporosis based on World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria of a T-score of -2.5. Data were acquired from the electronic medical records between 2016 and 2019 from a private hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study included sociodemographic characteristics, biomedical parameters, comorbidities, history of fracture, medications, laboratory, and DXA scan results. Ninety-four percent of the patients were females; the mean (±SD) age was 58.1 ± 11.5 years. Most patients were expatriates (84.3%), of which Asian ethnicity was 66.7%. The mean (±SD) duration of osteoporosis was 2.82 ± 1.8 years. Eleven (21.6%) patients had a history of fragility fracture. Ninety-six percent of the patients had vitamin D deficiency. One-third (29.4%) of the patients had hyperparathyroidism. Alendronate/cholecalciferol, received by nine patients (17.6%), showed a significant improvement (p = 0.018) in the BMD of the femoral neck among the study group. In conclusion, the DXA scan as a monitoring tool has shown a significant improvement in the BMD of the femoral neck among patients taking alendronate/cholecalciferol treatment compared to other medications.

Vitamin B12 status among asymptomatic young adult females and its association with some anthropometric and biochemical parameters: A cross-sectional study from Makkah (cobalamin deficiency in young adult females).

This study was designed to measure the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among young adult females in Makkah City and study its correlation with some anthropometric and biochemical indicators. A cross-sectional study and a detailed questionnaire were used to collect information from 402 young women aged 19 to 22 years, who were university students. Moreover, dietary assessments using a validated food frequency questionnaire and anthropometric measurements were performed. The mean values of serum vitamin B12, serum folate, hemoglobin, and body mass index (BMI) were 343.29 ±â€…148.16 pg/mL, 12.72 ±â€…2.62 ng/mL, 12.69 ±â€…1.41 g/dL, and 22.64 ±â€…4.24 kg/m2, respectively. About three-quarters of the study sample had normal vitamin B12 levels, while the rest had vitamin B12 deficiency. Meanwhile, a significant negative association (r = -0.201, P = .048) was found between abdominal fat and serum vitamin B12 levels. This study concluded that the young adult females' population from Makkah City is among the risk groups for vitamin B12 deficiency, which is highly correlated with inappropriate values of weight, body fat, and some blood indices. Appropriate dietary interventions and awareness are needed for this population.

Machine learning techniques for the identification of risk factors associated with food insecurity among adults in Arab countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: A direct consequence of global warming, and strongly correlated with poor physical and mental health, food insecurity is a rising global concern associated with low dietary intake. The Coronavirus pandemic has further aggravated food insecurity among vulnerable communities, and thus has sparked the global conversation of equal food access, food distribution, and improvement of food support programs. This research was designed to identify the key features associated with food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic using Machine learning techniques. Seven machine learning algorithms were used in the model, which used a dataset of 32 features. The model was designed to predict food insecurity across ten Arab countries in the Gulf and Mediterranean regions. A total of 13,443 participants were extracted from the international Corona Cooking Survey conducted by 38 different countries during the COVID -19 pandemic. RESULTS: The findings indicate that Jordanian, Palestinian, Lebanese, and Saudi Arabian respondents reported the highest rates of food insecurity in the region (15.4%, 13.7%, 13.7% and 11.3% respectively). On the other hand, Oman and Bahrain reported the lowest rates (5.4% and 5.5% respectively). Our model obtained accuracy levels of 70%-82% in all algorithms. Gradient Boosting and Random Forest techniques had the highest performance levels in predicting food insecurity (82% and 80% respectively). Place of residence, age, financial instability, difficulties in accessing food, and depression were found to be the most relevant features associated with food insecurity. CONCLUSIONS: The ML algorithms seem to be an effective method in early detection and prediction of food insecurity and can profoundly aid policymaking. The integration of ML approaches in public health strategies could potentially improve the development of targeted and effective interventions to combat food insecurity in these regions and globally.

What Dietary Patterns and Nutrients are Associated with Pancreatic Cancer? Literature Review.

This narrative review summarizes the main findings of observational studies (case-control and cohort) as well as systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the role of nutrients and dietary patterns on pancreatic cancer (PC) risk and elucidates possible mechanisms for the association between nutrients or specific food components and the risk of PC. A literature search of MEDLINE (PubMed), Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus was performed. An extensive search of related articles published in the English language from 1985 to 2022 was carried out. Our search included macro- and micronutrient intake as well as dietary patterns associated with PC. In conclusion, the consumption of a diet high in nutrients such as sugar, fats, and red and processed meats can increase the risk of PC. Conversely, a high dietary intake of fresh fruit and vegetables and their associated nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols may prevent PC. Dietary patterns loaded with red and processed meats were also linked to an increased risk of PC, whereas dietary patterns rich in plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes were associated with a reduced risk of PC. Dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins, and minerals might also play a protective role against PC.

Sex disparities in food consumption patterns, dietary diversity and determinants of self-reported body weight changes before and amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 10 Arab countries.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic along with its confinement period boosted lifestyle modifications and impacted women and men differently which exacerbated existing gender inequalities. The main objective of this paper is to assess the gender-based differentials in food consumption patterns, dietary diversity and the determinants favoring weight change before and amid the COVID-19 pandemic among Arab men and women from 10 Arab countries. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted based on a convenience sample of 12,447 households' family members (mean age: 33.2 ± 12.9; 50.1% females) and information from participants aged 18 years and above was collected about periods before and during the pandemic. Results: Findings showed that, during the COVID-19 period, the dietary diversity, declined by 1.9% among females compared to males (0.4%) (p < 0.001) and by 1.5% among overweight participants (p < 0.001) compared to their counterparts. Conclusions: To conclude, gender-sensitive strategies and policies to address weight gain and dietary diversity during emergent shocks and pandemics are urgently needed in the region.

Macronutrients Not Micronutrients Are Associated With the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Jordanian Case-Control Study.

OBJECTIVES: Pancreatic cancer (PC) has been related directly to many risk factors; however, diet is considered one of the most modifiable risk factors. This study is designed to observe the associations between the intake of macromicronutrients and the risk of pancreatic cancer in a Jordanian population. METHODS: A case-control study included 100 patients with the incident and histologically confirmed PC and 309 control subjects frequency-matched on age, educational level, occupation, and marital status. Face-to-face interview was used to collect the study's sociodemographic, physical activity, and dietary information. Intakes of macronutrients and micronutrients were assessed by a validated food-frequency questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals. RESULTS: The patients reported higher consumption of almost all the macromicronutrients and micronutrients as compared with control subjects. The highest tertile of dietary intake of carbohydrates, sugars, fats, saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and vitamin B3 was positively associated with PC risk (Ptrend < 0.05). However, dietary intakes of polyunsaturated fats, omega-3, and some vitamins and minerals were not associated (Ptrend > 0.05) with the risk of PC. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support the positive role of proteins, carbohydrates, sugars, fats, saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol on pancreatic carcinogenesis.

Association between Grain and Legume Consumption and the Risk of Coronary Artery Obstruction among Jordanians Based on Angiography Results.

Accumulating evidence suggests that consumption of whole grains and legumes is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), whereas the risk is increased by consuming refined grains and cereals. This study aimed to investigate the association between grain and legume consumption and the risk of CVD. The study was conducted using a convenient sampling method with a total of 399 participants who underwent coronary angiography. Cases and controls were matched by age with a 1:1 ratio. Standardized and validated questionnaires were used to collect socio- demographic, health, lifestyle, and dietary data. Intake of more than 1 serving/d of white bread increased the risk of CVD significantly with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.06 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37∼6.84], while consuming more than 1 serving/d of wholegrain bread reduced the risk significantly to approximately 53% (AOR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24∼0.93). Similar trends between consuming white bread on daily basis and increased risk of CVD, and consuming wholegrain bread and reduced risk of CVD were also observed. In addition, consuming unsweetened cornflakes on a weekly basis had a protective effect against CVD (AOR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03∼0.96). Intake of legumes reduced the risk of CVD, although only insignificantly for all the tested legumes. The present study calls for consideration of consuming wholegrain bread prevent CVD in the Jordanian population.

Association between major socio-demographic and psychosocial factors with the dietary pattern among elderly people in Amman, Jordan

Introduction: The population of elderly people has increased significantly in recent decades. Their health is partially influenced by the nature of dietary pattern they choose. This study was designed to identify the association of major psychosocial and socio-demographic factors with the dietary pattern among elderly people in Amman, Jordan. Methods: Cross-sectional studies of 116 elderly Jordanian participants were enrolled in the study. The data about participants were collected using socio-demographic questionnaire, MEDFICTS dietary assessment questionnaire, perceived stress scale (PSS), centers for epidemiological studies depression scale (CES-D), and multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS (version 23), with statistical significance set at p-value <0.05. Results: The average total score of MEDFICTS questionnaire was 55.79 ± 8.82. The attitude of participants was more concentrated on snacks, table fat, convenience foods, in baked goods, and frying foods. About 44.8% of participant scored ≥ 70 in the MEDFICTS questionnaire. Consumption of unhealthy dietary pattern has positive significant associations among females (β=0.59, p =0.001) and participants with lower monthly income (β=0.39, p= 0.003). Higher scores of depressive symptoms and perceived stress were found to be significantly higher for those participants who scored ≥ 70 in the MEDFICTS questionnaire and vice versa regarding social support. Conclusion: The socio-demographic and psychosocial factors in this study play crucial role in determining the tendencies toward unhealthy food patterns among elderly people. It is highly recommended to investigate the role of other factors through longitudinal studies among elderly people. (AU)

Dietary Habits, Eating Practices and DMFT Index among Adults Attending Dental Clinics in Amman, Jordan

Introduction: There is a few studies regarding problems of oral health especially among adult groups in Jordan. This study was designed to use the Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index as an indicator for dental health status. Moreover, this index was used to find out the association between dietary habits, eating practices and the dental health status among Jordanians patients who had high DMFT index. Methods: A private clinic-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 204 patients aged 18-64 years who visited eleven private dental clinics in Jordan. DMFT index was the examination tool of oral health status among the patients. A questionnaire was used during face-to-face interviews to collect data regarding socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric data, dental behavior, and dietary data. SPSS (version 23) was used to conduct the statistical analysis and the statistical significance set at p-value <0.05. Results: The mean (SD) values DMFT index in the patients was 14.8±1.3. About (62.25%) of the patients was classified as “High DMFT index” group which reflects index values higher than 13.9. Variables including age, gender, educational status, frequency of tooth brushing per day, frequency of using mouthwash per day, and smoking, were all used to adjust the relative risk between dietary habits, eating practices and being classified within “High DMFT index” group. It was noticed that the higher frequency intake of soft drinks, candies, chocolate, citric juices, junk foods, Arabic sweets, and sweetened juices, the higher the odds of being classified within “High DMFT index” group. Conclusion: Unfortunately, our study revealed that the average DMFT index was very high. It is well-known that dental problems may affect patients throughout their lifetime. Therefore, the oral health status among Jordanians should be enhanced through making significant modifications in their dental behavior, dietary habits, and eating practices. (AU)

The Combined Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency and Hyperparathyroidism on Postural Stability among Healthy Adult Males.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D has been shown to improve muscle strength and bone health; consequently, be important for maintaining good balance. Possible risk factors related to postural stability in young adults still underdetermined. However, this study was designed to determine the effect of vitamin D status on postural stability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 704 healthy young adult males were enrolled in this study. Dynamic balance was measured as overall stability index (OSI) using biodex balance system (BBS). Vitamin D deficiency was defined when its serum level <20 ng mL-1. The effect size was measured for vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and the interaction between vitamin D and PTH (VTD*PTH) with respect to the OSI values. Correlations between variables were examined according to the beta standardised coefficient (ß) and the effect size was measured using the partial eta-squared (η2) test. RESULTS: About 95, 3.8 and 1.2% of individuals had deficient, insufficient and normal vitamin D levels, respectively. Vitamin D had no significant effect to OSI, but PTH exhibited a significant correlation with OSI (adjusted ß = 0.095, p = 0.038). A significant effect size was observed between OSI and PTH (adjusted partial η2 = 0.012, p = 0.038) and between OSI and VTD*PTH (adjusted partial η2 = 0.034, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: A significant interaction of vitamin D deficiency and high PTH on postural stability is detected among healthy adult males.

Hepatitis C core antigen testing: a reliable, quick, and potentially cost-effective alternative to hepatitis C polymerase chain reaction in diagnosing acute hepatitis C virus infection.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is increasingly common among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected men who have sex with men. We evaluated the efficacy of HCV core antigen in diagnosing acute HCV in an HIV-infected cohort. Compared with HCV polymerase chain reaction, core antigen proved sensitive (100%) and specific (97.9%). As a quick, simple, and cost-effective test, it has considerable utility in screening for acute HCV.