Effects of Particle Size on Physicochemical and Nutritional Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Apple and Carrot Pomaces.

The food processing industry is growing rapidly and producing large amounts of by-products, such as pomaces, which are considered as no-value waste and cause significant environmental pollution. The main by-products of fruit juice processing companies are apple and carrot pomaces, which can be used to create new functional food products. In the present study, the effects of particle size (PS) on the proximate composition, nutritional properties, and antioxidant activity of apple pomace flour (APF) and carrot pomace flour (CPF) were determined. Four different PS fractions, PS > 1 mm, 1 > PS > 0.71 mm, 0.71 > PS > 0.18 mm, and 0.18 > PS > 0.075 mm were used for the present study. Their vitamin, carotenoid, organic acid, and reducing sugar contents were determined using HPLC. The proximate compositions of each PS fraction of the AP and CP flours were determined using recommended international standard methods. DPPH, FRAP, and Folin-Ciocalteu methods were used to measure their antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds, respectively. The moisture content (around 12.1 mg/100 g) was similar in all PS fractions and in both flours. The APF had lower protein (4.3-4.6 g/100 g dw) and ash (1.7-2.0 g/100 g dw) contents compared to the CPF, with protein contents ranging from 6.4-6.8 g/100 g dw and ash contents ranging from 5.8-6.1 g/100 g dw. Smaller particles, regardless of flour type, exhibited higher sugar and phenolic contents and antioxidant activity, while vitamins were more abundant in particles larger than 1 mm. In the APF, larger particles had a higher fiber content than smaller particles, while their fat content was the lowest. PS also had an impact on the results of the carotenoid contents. This study underscores the direct impact of PS on the distribution of sugars, crude fiber, fat, carotenoids, vitamins, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity in pomaces.

Three-Dimensional Printing of Red Algae Biopolymers: Effect of Locust Bean Gum on Rheology and Processability.

Seaweeds, rich in high-value polysaccharides with thickening/gelling properties (e.g., agar, carrageenan, and alginate), are extensively used in the food industry for texture customization and enhancement. However, conventional extraction methods for these hydrocolloids often involve potentially hazardous chemicals and long extraction times. In this study, three red seaweed species (Chondrus crispus, Gelidium Corneum, and Gracilaria gracilis) commercialized as food ingredients by local companies were chosen for their native gelling biopolymers, which were extracted using water-based methodologies (i.e., (1) hydration at room temperature; (2) stirring at 90 °C; and (3) centrifugation at 40 °C) for production of sustainable food gels. The potential use of these extracts as bioinks was assessed employing an extrusion-based 3D printer. The present work aimed to study the gelation process, taken place during printing, and assess the effectiveness of the selected green extraction method in producing gels. To improve the definition of the printed gel, two critical printing parameters were investigated: the addition of locust bean gum (LBG) at different concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5%) and printing temperature (30, 40, 60, and 80 °C). Rheological results from a controlled-stress rheometer indicated that gels derived from G. corneum and G. gracilis exhibited a lower gel strength (lower G' and G″) and excessive material spreading during deposition (lower viscosity) than C. crispus. Thus, G' was around 5 and 70 times higher for C. crispus gels than for G. corneum and G. gracilis, respectively. When increasing LBG concentration (0.5 to 2.5% w/w) and lowering the printing temperature (80 to 30 °C), an enhanced gel matrix definition for G. corneum and G. gracilis gels was found. In contrast, gels from C. crispus demonstrated greater stability and were less influenced by these parameters, showcasing the potential of the seaweed to develop sustainable clean label food gels. Eventually, these results highlight the feasibility of using algal-based extracts obtained through a green procedure as bioinks where LBG was employed as a synergic ingredient.

Therapeutic Effects of Zymomonas mobilis on Experimental DSS-Induced Colitis Mouse Model.

Zymomonas mobilis, a Gram-negative bacteria observed in some popular beverages, is considered safe and has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. In this study, we explored its effects on the inflammatory process, tissue integrity, differential gene expression, and microbiota composition in an experimental dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model in mice. As a result, Z. mobilis alleviated the symptoms caused by DSS administration, as indicated by reduced weight loss, disease activity index, a significant reduction in the colon weight/length ratio, and histopathological improvement. Also, Z. mobilis could restore the mucosal barrier as well as increase the expression of Muc3 and Ocln genes. An analysis of 16S rRNA sequences showed that Z. mobilis alters gut microbiota, increasing Akkermansia muciniphila abundance and decreasing Escherichia coli. Furthermore, Z. mobilis seems to be involved in potentiating a regulatory phenotype by inducing immunomodulatory genes like Tgfb, Il5, Il10, and Foxp3 and reducing the relative mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF, Il6, and Il17. Our data suggest that Z. mobilis could alleviate disease progression and be considered a possible probiotic adjuvant for pathologies of the bowel.

Do Brazilian consumers intend to use food labels to make healthy food choices? An assessment before the front-of-package labelling policy.

Front-of-package labelling is a measure that can facilitate consumption of healthier foods. This study examined the predictors of consumers' intentions to use food labelling to make healthy food choices and prevent non-communicable diseases before the implementation of the front-of-package labelling policy in Brazil. An extended theory of planned behaviour incorporating knowledge and food literacy served as the theoretical foundation. First, experts (n = 6) and the target population (n = 30) validated the questionnaire, and the validation data were analysed using content validity coefficients (CVC). An online questionnaire was administered to 783 participants, and data were collected between May and October 2022. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the prediction hypothesis. The questionnaire showed adequate content validity, with all indicators of CVC ≥ 0.75. In the PLS-SEM attitudes (p < 0.001), subjective norms (p < 0.001), knowledge (p < 0.001), and food literacy (p < 0.001) positively predicted the intention to use food labels to make healthy food choices, confirming the main hypothesis. Also, Food literacy and knowledge predicted all constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (p < 0.001). The results highlight the importance of providing nutritional knowledge and food literacy, developing nutritional skills and abilities to encourage consumers to make healthy food choices, and to strengthen other policies such as front-of-package labelling.

Tuning the Bioactive Properties of Dunaliella salina Water Extracts by Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction.

(1) Background: Microalgae are promising feedstock for obtaining valuable bioactive compounds. To facilitate the release of these important biomolecules from microalgae, effective cell disruption is usually necessary, where the use of ultrasound has achieved considerable popularity as an alternative to conventional methods. (2) Methods: This paper aims to evaluate the use of ultrasound technology in water medium as a green technology to recover high added-value compounds from Dunaliella salina and improve its sensory profile towards a high level of incorporation into novel food products. (3) Results: Among the variables, the solid concentration and extraction time have the most significant impact on the process. For the extraction of protein, or fat, the most influential factor is the extraction time. Total polyphenols are only significantly affected by the extraction time. The antioxidant capacity is strongly affected by the solid to liquid ratio and, to a small extent, by the extraction time. Ultrasound-assisted extraction improves the overall odor/aroma of D. salina with good acceptability by the panelists. (4) Conclusions: The application of ultrasonic-assisted extraction demonstrates a positive overall effect on enhancing the sensory profile, particularly the odor of microalgal biomass, while the bioactive properties are preserved. Notably, the intense sea/fish odors are reduced, while earthy and citrus notes become more prominent, resulting in an improved overall sensory profile score. This is the first time, to our knowledge, that this innovative, green, and efficient technology has been used to upgrade the aroma profile of microalgae.

Nutritional Improvement of Fresh Cheese with Microalga Chlorella vulgaris: Impact on Composition, Structure and Sensory Acceptance.

Research background: The production of foods fortified with bioactive ingredients has been recognized by food companies as a way to position their products in health food markets. The fortification of cheese represents a major challenge, due to the chemical and structural complexity of the cheese matrix, as well as the complexity of the biochemical reactions occurring during the fermentation and maturation processes. Microalgae are nutritious and sustainable food sources with important bioactive compounds such as proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, polysaccharides, chlorophylls, carotenoids, vitamins and minerals. Experimental approach: This work aims to study the impact of the 2 and 4 % microalga Chlorella vulgaris addition on the nutritional composition, bioactivity, structure and sensory profile of quark and cream cheese, both probiotic fermented products. Texture profile analysis and fundamental rheology measurements (oscillatory and stationary) were performed to evaluate the impact of C. vulgaris on the mechanical properties of the fresh cheese. The nutritional composition was evaluated using standard methods and bioactivity through the determination of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity.1. Results and conclusions: C. vulgaris had an impact on the firmness of both cheeses. In general, the cheese with added C. vulgaris had a better nutritional profile, with an increase in protein content, content of Mg, P, S, Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn, and better bioactivity with an increase in the antioxidant activity. Sensory testing results were promising, especially for cream cheese. Novelty and scientific contribution: The enrichment of traditional foods such as fresh cheese with microalgae represents an interesting strategy to develop hybrid products (with protein from animal and vegetable sources), obtain innovative and more sustainable products, and improve their nutritional profile in terms of protein and mineral content and bioactivity.

Challenges in Management of Concomitant Primary Aldosteronism and Pheochromocytoma.

BACKGROUND Primary aldosteronism and pheochromocytoma are endocrine causes of secondary arterial hypertension. The association of primary aldosteronism and pheochromocytoma is rare and the involved mechanisms are poorly understood. Either there is a coexistence of both diseases or the pheochromocytoma stimulates the production of aldosterone. Since management approaches may differ significantly, it is important to properly diagnose the 2 conditions. We describe concomitant pheochromocytoma and primary aldosteronism in a patient with resistant hypertension, which demanded a challenging and individualized approach. CASE REPORT A 64-year-old man was sent for observation in our department for type 2 diabetes and resistant hypertension. Laboratory work-up suggested a primary aldosteronism and a pheochromocytoma. The abdominal CT (before and after intravenous contrast, with portal and delayed phase acquisitions) revealed an indeterminate right adrenal lesion and 3 nodules in the left adrenal gland: 1 indeterminate and 2 compatible with adenomas. A 18F-FDOPA PET-CT showed increased uptake in the right adrenal gland. The patient underwent a right adrenalectomy and a pheochromocytoma was confirmed. An improvement in glycemic control was observed after surgery but the patient remained hypertensive. A captopril test confirmed the persistence of primary aldosteronism, and he was started on eplerenone, achieving blood pressure control. CONCLUSIONS This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating the simultaneous occurrence of pheochromocytoma and primary aldosteronism. Our main goal was surgical removal of the pheochromocytoma due to the risk of an adrenergic crisis.

Evaluation of the total phenolic content, antioxidative capacity, and chemical fingerprint of Annona crassiflora Mart. Bioaccessible molecules.

Annona crassiflora Mart. (araticum) is an exotic fruit native to the Brazilian Cerrado that stands out for its phytochemical profile, especially for the presence of bioactive compounds. The health-related benefits promoted by these metabolites are widely explored. It is known that the biological activity of bioactive compounds is directly dependent on the availability of the molecules, and their bioaccessibility after the digestion process is one of the main limiting factors. The present study aimed to evaluate the bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds in some parts of araticum (peel, pulp and seeds) fruits obtained from different regions through the in vitro digestion process simulating the gastrointestinal tract. The total phenolic content ranged from 480.81 to 1007.62 for pulp; 837.53 to 1926.56 for peel; and 358.28 to 1186.07 for seeds (mg GAE.100 g-1 of sample). The highest antioxidant activity was observed for the seeds by the DPPH method, the peel by the ABTS method, and most of the peel, except for the Cordisburgo sample, by the FRAP method. Through the research of the chemical profile, it was possible to list up to 35 compounds, including the nutrients, in this identification attempt. It was observed that some compounds were listed only in natura samples (epicatechin and procyanidin) and others only for the bioaccessible fraction (quercetin-3-O-dipentoside), which is justified by the different gastrointestinal tract conditions. Thus, the present study elucidates that the food matrix will directly influence the bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds. In addition, it highlights the potential of unconventionally used or consumed parts that can be used as sources of substances with biological activities, increasing the sustainability by reducing waste.

Chemotherapy-free treatment of recurrent advanced ovarian cancer: myth or reality?

Advanced ovarian cancer remains a leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancy. Surgery and, in most cases, platinum-based chemotherapy with or without maintenance with bevacizumab and/or poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) represent the mainstay of treatment, but the disease typically recurs. The treatment of these patients represents a clinical challenge because sequential chemotherapy regimens are often used, with suboptimal outcomes and cumulative toxicity. Chemotherapy-free regimens, based on combinations of PARPi, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors, anti-programmed cell death protein-1/programmed death-ligand 1, and anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein-4 antibodies, among others, represent a valid option, with manageable toxicity profile and ease of administration. This review addresses this new strategy in the management of recurrent ovarian cancer and discusses its feasibility in the treatment landscape of the disease.

Influence of Particle Size and Extraction Methods on Phenolic Content and Biological Activities of Pear Pomace.

The main goal of this research was to investigate how particle size influences the characteristics of pear (Pyrus Communis L.) pomace flour and to examine the impact of different pre-treatment methods on the phenolic content and associated bioactivities. Pear pomace flour was fractionated into different particle sizes, namely 1 mm, 710 µm, 180 µm, 75 µm and 53 µm. Then two extraction methods, namely maceration with methanol and two-step extraction with hexane via Soxhlet followed by ultrasound extraction with methanol, were tested. Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents ranged from 375.0 to 512.9 mg gallic acid/100 g DW and from 24.7 to 34.6 mg quercetin/100 g DW, respectively. Two-step extraction provided antioxidant activity up to 418.8 (in FRAP assay) and 340.0 mg Trolox/100 g DW (in DPPH assay). In order to explore various bioactive properties, this study assessed the inhibitory effects of enzymes, specifically α-amylase and ß-glucosidase (associated with antidiabetic effects), as well as angiotensin-converting enzyme (linked to potential antihypertensive benefits). Additionally, the research investigated antibacterial potential against both Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria, revealing significant results (p < 0.05), particularly in the case of the two-step extraction method. This investigation underscores the substantial value of certain food industry wastes, highlighting their potential as bioactive ingredients within the framework of a circular economy.

Redox homeostasis at SAM: a new role of HINT protein.

MAIN CONCLUSION: ScHINT1 was identified at sugarcane SAM using subtractive libraries. Here, by bioinformatic tools, two-hybrid approach, and biochemical assays, we proposed that its role might be associated to control redox homeostasis. Such control is important for plant development and flowering transition, and this is ensured with some protein partners such as PAL and SBT that interact with ScHINT1. The shoot apical meristem transition from vegetative to reproductive is a crucial step for plants. In sugarcane (Saccharum spp.), this process is not well known, and it has an important impact on production due to field reduction. In view of this, ScHINT1 (Sugarcane HISTIDINE TRIAD NUCLEOTIDE-BINDING PROTEIN) was identified previously by subtractive cDNA libraries using Shoot Apical Meristem (SAM) by our group. This protein is a member of the HIT superfamily that was composed of hydrolase with an AMP site ligation. To better understand the role of ScHINT1 in sugarcane flowering, here its function in SAM was characterized using different approaches such as bioinformatics, two-hybrid assays, transgenic plants, and biochemical assays. ScHINT1 was conserved in plants, and it was grouped into four clades (HINT1, HINT2, HINT3, and HINT4). The 3D model proposed that ScHINT1 might be active as it was able to ligate to AMP subtract. Moreover, the two-hybrid approach identified two protein interactions: subtilase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. The evolutionary tree highlighted the relationships that each sequence has with specific subfamilies and different proteins. The 3D models constructed reveal structure conservation when compared with other PDB-related crystals, which indicates probable functional activity for the sugarcane models assessed. The interactome analysis showed a connection to different proteins that have antioxidative functions in apical meristems. Lastly, the transgenic plants with 35S::ScHINT1_AS (anti-sense orientation) produced more flowers than wild-type or 35S::ScHINT1_S (sense). Alpha-tocopherol and antioxidant enzymes measurement showed that their levels were higher in 35S::ScHINT_S plants than in 35S::ScHINT1_AS or wild-type plants. These results proposed that ScHINT1 might have an important role with other proteins in orchestrating this complex network for plant development and flowering.

Fermented unripe tomato paste - Development of innovative salad dressings as a contribution to circular economy.

As food trends evolve towards sustainable, healthy, and mildly processed products, it is essential to consider new food sources, which contribute to positive changes in the food industry and originate interesting new products. For the tomato industry, where only completely red tomatoes are used, unripe and non-red tomatoes constitute an important by-product, with important losses in the field of a perfectly edible vegetable food source. To give value to this unripe tomato, a fermentation with a consortium of lactic acid bacteria and yeast was previously optimized, originating an acidic pulp with optimized nutritional characteristics and great potential for salad dressing development. Pulp's texture was improved with two hydrocolloid systems: 0.5 g/100 g of xanthan gum; and a mixed system of xanthan gum and kappa-carrageenan (0.1 g/100 g each). After rheology optimization, spices and condiments were added to the thickened fermented pulp, and promising tasty sauces were obtained. These sauces were presented to a consumers' panel, with good acceptance. The production of these new healthy sauces aims to mitigate unripe tomato waste, adding value to the tomato industry by using a major industrial by-product.

An Integrative Approach to the Flavonoid Profile in Some Plants' Parts of the Annona Genus.

The Annonaceae family is widely distributed in subtropical and tropical regions. Several species of this family are known for their pharmacological and beneficial properties to human health, mainly attributed to flavonoids. The objective of this work was to carry out an integrative review in order to identify the main flavonoids found in some plant parts belonging to the Annona genus: araticum tree (Annona crassiflora Mart.), graviola tree (Annona muricata), atemoya tree (Annona cherimolia Mill × Annona squamosa L.), pinha tree (Annona squamosa), bananinha tree (Annona leptopetala), and marolinho tree (Annona coriacea). Only articles published between the years 2016 to 2021 that answered the guiding question were considered, in order to obtain recent data. Then, search strategies were designated for each database used: Science Direct, CAPES Periodicals, and Scielo. Most of the studies retrieved from the databases are related to fruits. The results showed that the number of flavonoids identified varies according to the analytical methodology used to identify and quantify the compounds. Quercetin was the most commonly found compound in all fruits of the Annona genus studied, and epicatechin, rutin, and kaempferol were also found to a lesser extent. The presence of these compounds in Annona makes the fruit promising, with potential applicability in the pharmaceutical and food industry.

Yogurt and curd cheese as alternative ingredients to improve the gluten-free breadmaking.

Gluten-free products are on today's agenda since they represent the most hastily growing segments in the market, representing an opportunity for food companies. Nevertheless, it is well-known that gluten is a crucial network structure in the wheat dough systems, which accounts for the overall desired technological features of the final bakery goods. Therefore, the absence of gluten negatively affects the characteristics of gluten-free bread, triggering a technological challenge in the manufacturing of products with resembled characteristics of wheat-derived counterparts. The search for new protein sources has been studied as an approach to circumvent the technological drawbacks of gluten removal. Dairy proteins are functional molecules that can likely be capable of building up a protein-network structure so that it would improve the technological properties of gluten-free products. In the present work, different levels of dairy product addition (10 and 20%, w/w) were used to supplement the gluten-free bread formulas, and the impact on dough rheology properties was well correlated to the bread technological quality parameters obtained. Linear correlations (R 2 > 0.904) between steady shear (viscosity) and oscillatory (elastic and viscous moduli) values of the dough rheology with bread quality parameters (volume and firmness) were obtained, suggesting that the bread quality improvements are proportional to the levels of dairies added. Likewise, strong linear correlations (R 2 > -0.910) between pasting properties parameters and bread staling rate supported the hypothesis that the dairies tested have a high potential to generate bread with a low staling rate, which is an advantage to extending the shelf-life. In short, results confirmed that the addition of both dairy products, as bakery ingredients, can constitute a technological advantage to improve the overall gluten-free bread quality.

Recurrent Ovarian Cancer with BRCAness Phenotype: A Treatment Challenge.

INTRODUCTION: Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death among women with gynecologic malignancies. The relapse rate is high after platinum-based therapy, with the effectiveness of subsequent treatment lines decreasing over time. Recent data suggest the benefit of maintenance therapy with niraparib in platinum-sensitive recurrent disease. CASE PRESENTATIONS: We report a case series of five women with advanced ovarian cancer and BRCAness phenotype who responded favorably, and in some cases with long-term response, to maintenance therapy with niraparib. Toxicities were as expected and generally manageable. Two patients developed grade 2/3 hematological toxicity, which resolved with treatment suspension and subsequent dose reductions, and one patient reported a rare skin toxicity while responding to full-dose niraparib treatment, which was controlled with photoprotection and sunscreen. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This case series highlights the role of PARP1/2 inhibitors as a new standard of care as maintenance therapy for recurrent platinum-sensitive high-grade ovarian cancer, irrespective of BRCA status.

Use of pulp, peel, and seed of Annona crassiflora Mart. in elaborating extracts for fingerprint analysis using paper spray mass spectrometry.

The Brazilian cerrado is considered one of the most critical biomes in the world. Araticum (Annona crassiflora Mart.) is a native plant from the Brazilian cerrado, abundant in nutrients and highly energetic. This study aimed to obtain chemical fingerprints of different parts of the araticum fruit, i.e. pulp, peel, and seed. Extracts from these three parts were prepared using different solvents (ethanol, water, and mixtures of ethanol and water) and later analyzed by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry. In general, ethanol extracted more metabolites than the other solvents. The chemical profiles varied according to the fruit part, geographic location, and extractor solvent. Among the metabolites, acetogenins (62.3%) and alkaloids (20.7%) predominated. Principal component analyses revealed that the samples were grouped according to the fruit part, regardless of the extractor solvent used. Araticum shows remarkable potential due to the beneficial properties of the metabolites for human health. The insertion of araticum in the human diet is still underexplored but is a promising alternative.

New Alternatives to Milk From Pulses: Chickpea and Lupin Beverages With Improved Digestibility and Potential Bioactivities for Human Health.

There is a strong demand for plant-based milk substitutes, often low in protein content (<1.5% w/v). Protein-rich pulse seeds and the right processing technologies make it possible to make relevant choices. The major objective of this study was to assess the impact of processing on the nutritional characteristics of beverages with a high impact on health, in particular on digestibility and specific bioactivities. The results suggest that pulse beverages are as high in protein content (3.24% w/v for chickpea and 4.05% w/v for lupin) as cow's milk. The anti-nutrient level characteristics of pulses have been considerably reduced by strategic processing. However, when present in small quantities, some of these anti-nutritional factors may have health benefits. Controlling processing conditions play a crucial role in this fine balance as a tool to take advantage of their health benefits. There is evidence of protein hydrolysis by in vitro digestion and limited bioaccessibility of minerals. In addition to being highly digestible, lupin and chickpea beverages have anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic potential evaluated through the inhibition of metalloproteinase MMP-9.

Moringa oleifera Seeds Characterization and Potential Uses as Food.

Despite the fact Moringa oleifera (MO)-based foods present a very good and nutritionally well-balanced composition, they face some issues related to seed bitterness, which is the most challenging barrier to consumer acceptance. Different processing methods were tested to produce MO toasted seeds, MO-based beverage, and yoghurt-like products which were chemically and rheologically analyzed. The protein content ranged from 3.68% in the beverage, to 14.73% in the yoghurt and 40.21% in MO toasted seeds. A totally debittered beverage could not be accomplished, but the MO yoghurt-like showed a very nice flavor. Nutrition claims for minerals in toasted seeds could be considered for magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese, which confirms the M. oleifera seed richness in several minerals. The MO beverage presented less extended shear-thinning behavior (17.4 Pa·s) than commercial vegetable beverages and two pulse-based beverages developed in a previous study. The MO yoghurt-like product showed a gel structure similar to the dairy yoghurt, making it a promising new plant-based alternative. Further work must be performed in the future to debitter more efficiently the raw seeds to achieve a more pleasant MO-based beverage. The developed MO seed-based products may settle another font of high protein plant-based food.

Iodine status, dietary iodine intake and iodized salt in school-aged children in São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal.

OBJECTIVE: School-aged children in São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal, are a population with a long history of iodine deficiency, and a recent governmental program for iodized salt (IS) consumption was implemented. This study investigated urinary iodine concentration (UIC), household and school IS consumption, and iodine-rich food intake in school-aged children. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, spot urine samples and dietary iodine intake were collected. Urinary iodine concentration was evaluated using the fast colorimetric method. Dietary iodine intake was calculated by determining the iodine content of reported food intake using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). RESULTS: The median UIC was 106.7 µg/L, and 55.5% of children had UIC >100 µg/L. Iodized salt was used by 100% of schools and 48.3% of school-aged children's households. Excluding iodine in IS, the median dietary iodine intake was 105.5 µg/d. No significant correlation was found between UIC and dietary iodine intake. Milk and dairy products, with a median intake of 311.1 g/d, provided 81.5 µg iodine/d. Seafood, with a median intake of 30.5 g/d, provided 16.8 µg iodine/d. Dairy product intake was not statistically correlated with UIC (P = 0.567). CONCLUSIONS: School-aged children in São Miguel Island did not have iodine deficiency after the governmental program for IS consumption. Adequate iodine status of school-aged children probably reflects not only an increase in iodine intake, through IS, but also an improvement of food intake patterns. Future studies are needed to ensure the sufficient iodine status of school-aged children in the Azores, and political commitment and efforts are required to prevent the possible reemergence of iodine deficiency.

Body mass index and gestational weight gain: relevance in gestational diabetes and outcomes - A retrospective cohort study.

Objective: To evaluate the influence of maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) on blood glucose levels at diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and obstetric/neonatal outcomes. Methods: Retrospective cohort study including 462 women with GDM and singleton pregnancy delivered in our institution between January 2015 and June 2018 and grouped according to BMI/GWG. Results: The diagnosis of GDM was more likely to be established in the 1st trimester (T) in women with obesity than in normal-weight (55.8% vs 53.7%, p = 0.008). BMI positively and significantly correlated with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels in the 1stT (rs = 0.213, p = 0.001) and 2ndT (rs = 0.210, p = 0.001). Excessive GWG occurred in 44.9% women with overweight and in 40.2% with obesity (p < 0.001). From women with obesity, 65.1% required pharmacological treatment (p < 0.001). Gestational hypertension (GH) was more frequent in women with obesity (p = 0.016). During follow-up, 132 cesareans were performed, the majority in mothers with obesity (p = 0.008). Of the 17 large-for-gestational-age (LGA) birthweight delivered, respectively 6 and 9 were offsprings of women with overweight and obesity (p = 0.019). Maternal BMI had a predictive value only for macrosomia [aOR 1.177 (1.006-1.376), p = 0.041]. BMI and GWG positively correlated with birthweight (rs = 0.132, p = 0.005; rs = 0.188, p = 0.005). Conclusion: Maternal obesity is related with a major probability of diagnosis of GDM in 1stT, fasting hyperglycemia in 2ndT and a more frequent need for pharmacological therapy. Pre-gestational obesity is associated with GH, cesarean delivery and fetal macrosomia.