Konzo risk factors, determinants and etiopathogenesis: What is new? A systematic review.

Konzo is a toxico-nutritional upper motor neuron disease causing a spastic paraparesis in schoolchildren and childbearing women in some African countries. Almost a century since the first description of konzo, its underlying etiopathogenic mechanisms and causative agent remain unknown. This paper aims at refreshing the current knowledge of konzo determinants and pathogenesis in order to enlighten potential new research and management perspectives. Literature research was performed in PubMed and Web of Science databases according to the PRISMA methodology. Available data show that cassava-derived cyanide poisoning and protein malnutrition constitute two well-documented risk factors of konzo. However, observational studies have failed to demonstrate the causal relationship between konzo and cyanide poisoning. Thiocyanate, the current marker of choice of cyanide exposure, may underestimate the actual level of cyanide poisoning in konzo patients as a larger amount of cyanide is detoxified via other unusual pathways in the context of protein malnutrition characterizing these patients. Furthermore, the appearance of konzo may be the consequence of the interplay of several factors including cyanide metabolites, nutritional deficiencies, psycho-emotional and geo-environmental factors, resulting in pathophysiologic phenomena such as excitotoxicity or oxidative stress, responsible for neuronal damage that takes place at sparse cellular and/or subcellular levels.

Konzo outbreak in the Western Province of Zambia.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the etiology of an outbreak of spastic paraparesis among women and children in the Western Province of Zambia suspected to be konzo. METHODS: We conducted an outbreak investigation of individuals from Mongu District, Western Province, Zambia, who previously developed lower extremity weakness. Cases were classified with the World Health Organization definition of konzo. Active case finding was conducted through door-to-door evaluation in affected villages and sensitization at local health clinics. Demographic, medical, and dietary history was used to identify common exposures in all cases. Urine and blood specimens were taken to evaluate for konzo and alternative etiologies. RESULTS: We identified 32 cases of konzo exclusively affecting children 6 to 14 years of age and predominantly females >14 years of age. Fourteen of 15 (93%) cases ≥15 years of age were female, 11 (73%) of whom were breastfeeding at the time of symptom onset. Cassava was the most commonly consumed food (median [range] 14 [4-21] times per week), while protein-rich foods were consumed <1 time per week for all cases. Of the 30 patients providing urine specimens, median thiocyanate level was 281 (interquartile range 149-522) µmol/L, and 73% of urine samples had thiocyanate levels >136 µmol/L, the 95th percentile of the US population in 2013 to 2014. CONCLUSION: This investigation revealed the first documented cases of konzo in Zambia, occurring in poor communities with diets high in cassava and low in protein, consistent with previous descriptions from neighboring countries.

Protein deficiency after gastric bypass: The role of common limb length in revision surgery.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery, especially the gastric bypass procedure, is an effective therapy for morbid obesity, but may reduce protein absorption and induce protein deficiency (PD). A recent study reported an issue about common limb length for PD. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of PD after gastric bypass surgery and investigate the role of common limb length in PD-related revision surgery. SETTING: Hospital-based bariatric center. METHODS: From 2001 to 2016, 2397 patients with morbid obesity who underwent bariatric/metabolic surgery with 1-year follow-up were recruited. Serum albumin and total protein were measured before and 1 year after surgery. Medical records of patients who underwent revision surgery due to PD were reviewed. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of PD was .5% preoperatively. The prevalence of PD increased to 2.0% at 1 year after surgery. The incidence was highest in one-anastomosis gastric bypass (2.8%) followed by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (1.8%). Until the end of follow-up, all 19 patients who underwent revision surgery for intractable PD had a relatively short common limb length of <400 cm. After elongation of the common limb length to >400 cm in revision surgery, PD improved in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: A subset of patients can develop PD after gastric bypass surgery when the common limb length is <400 cm. In patients with intractable PD after gastric bypass surgery, revision surgery for elongation of common limb length to >400 cm is mandatory to avoid PD-related complications.

Protein and micronutrient deficiencies in patients with radiation cystitis and outcome after hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Haemorrhagic radiation cystitis (HRC) is a late complication of pelvic radiotherapy. Severe cases are difficult to treat due to persistent or recurrent bleeding, despite urological and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). However, wound healing requires a good nutritional status. In this respect, we aimed at analysing the nutritional status of patients with HRC prior to the onset of HBOT and at highlighting predictive nutritional factors of outcome. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected from a cohort of 179 patients with HRC (between 2011 and 2015). Haematuria was graded according to the Subjective, Objective, Management, Analytic scale (SOMA): grade-4 (n = 46) was compared with grade-3 (n = 56), and with grades 1 and 2 (n = 77). S-albumin, prealbumin, vitamins C, D and B6, zinc, selenium, and essential fatty acids were evaluated before HBOT. HBOT response was measured at 3 months according to the haematuria SOMA grade. The Mann-Whitney test, Fisher's exact test and principal-component analysis were used to compare groups. RESULTS: Patients with higher haematuria grades (3 and 4) harboured significant deficiencies in S-albumin, prealbumin, vitamins C, D and B6, zinc, selenium and essential fatty acids. Moreover, grade-4 patients without improvement after 3 months of HBOT had significant lower initial levels of S-albumin, vitamin C, selenium and linoleic acid. Vitamin C levels <2.5 mg/L were strongly associated with HBOT non-response (OR 23.14, 95% CI 3.73-143.69, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Our analyses show serious nutritional deficiencies associated with higher grades of HRC and worse prognoses. Patients with haemorrhagic cystitis might benefit from an adequate dietary supplementation to support healing of their bladder mucosa.

The relevance of dietary protein after bariatric surgery: what do we know?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The growing obesity epidemic is associated with an increased demand for bariatric surgery with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy as the most widely performed procedures. Despite beneficial consequences, nutritional complications may arise because of anatomical and physiological changes of the gastrointestinal tract. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the recent additions to our understanding of the impact of bariatric surgery on the intake, digestion and absorption of dietary protein. RECENT FINDINGS: After bariatric surgery, protein intake is compromised because of reduced gastric capacity and aversion for certain foods. A minority of patients reaches the recommended protein intake of minimal 60 g per day, which results in the loss of fat-free mass rather than the desired loss of fat mass. Despite inadequate protein intake, protein digestion and absorption do not seem to be impaired suggesting that other mechanisms could counteract the reduced secretion of digestive enzymes and their delayed inlet. SUMMARY: After bariatric surgery, protein supplementation or diet enrichment could attribute to achieve the minimal recommended protein intake and benefit the amount and composition of postoperative weight loss.

The effects of a high-protein, high-calorie, fiber- and fructo-oligosaccharide-enriched enteral formula on nutritional status, bowel habits and tolerance: Safety and Effectiveness of Enteral Nutrition in elderly Spanish patients (SENS Study) / Fórmula enteral hiperproteica e hipercalórica, enriquecida en fibra y en fructooligosacáridos: efecto sobre el estado nutricional, hábitos gastrointestinales y tolerancia en pacientes ancianos españoles (Estudio SENS)

Background: Enteral nutrition (EN) is an effective nutritional intervention for patients at risk of malnutrition or malnourished. However, complications such as gastrointestinal intolerance, hyperglycemia or refeeding syndrome can be triggered by EN. Aim: To investigate the effects of a tube feeding formula (TFF) on patients' nutritional status, biochemical status, bowel habits and safety. Methodology: Observational, prospective and multicenter study. Patients ≥ 18 years, undernourished or at nutritional risk, who were prescribed a high-calorie, high-protein, fiber-fortified TFF were included. Patients were evaluated over a period of eight weeks (baseline [V1], four weeks [V2] and eight weeks [V3]). Results: A statistically significant increase in weight (1.5 kg), body mass index (0.6 kg/m2) and nutritional intake (59.7 kcal/day) was observed between V1 and V2. Between V1 and V3, there was a statistically significant decrease in the percentage of individuals with abnormal biochemical markers for glucose, potassium, total protein and albumin. The number of patients’ bowel movements remained stable throughout the study with a mean of 1.1 daily bowel movements. Conclusion: The TFF was safe and well tolerated, improving patients’ nutritional status without altering patients' bowel habits (AU)

Introducción: la nutrición enteral es una intervención efectiva para pacientes desnutridos o en riesgo de sufrir desnutrición. Sin embargo, puede desencadenar complicaciones como intolerancia gastrointestinal, hiperglicemia o síndrome de realimentación. Objetivo: investigar los efectos de una fórmula de nutrición enteral por sonda en el estado nutricional y bioquímico, hábitos gastrointestinales y seguridad de los pacientes. Metodología: estudio observacional, prospectivo y multicéntrico. Se incluyeron pacientes ≥ 18 años, desnutridos o en riesgo de desnutrición, tributarios de recibir una fórmula de nutrición enteral hipercalórica, hiperproteica, y rica en fibra y fructooligosacáridos. Los pacientes fueron evaluados durante 8 semanas en 3 visitas (V1, inicial; V2, 4 semanas; V3, 8 semanas). Resultados: entre V1 y V2 se observó un incremento estadísticamente significativo en peso (1,5 kg), índice de masa corporal (0,6 kg/m2) e ingesta calórica (59,7 kcal/día). Entre V1 y V3, existió un descenso en el porcentaje de pacientes con valores anormales de glucosa, potasio, proteína total y albúmina. Los hábitos intestinales se mantuvieron estables durante el estudio (1,1 deposiciones diarias de media). Conclusión: la fórmula fue segura, tolerada, y mejoró el estado nutricional del paciente sin alterar los hábitos intestinales (AU)

Evaluación de la dieta en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica sin diálisis y su relación con el estado nutricional / Assessment of diet in patients with chronic kidney diseases without dialysis and relationship with the nutritional status

Introducción: la dieta en los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) sin diálisis es uno de los pilares de su tratamiento. A pesar de esto existen muy pocos estudios que hayan evaluado la dieta en esta población y ninguno en población española. Objetivo: evaluar la dieta de un colectivo de pacientes con ERC avanzada, comparándola con las recomendaciones, y su relación con marcadores del estado nutricional. Material y métodos: estudio transversal de 74 pacientes (39 hombres), con edad media de 70,9 ± 13,6 años y aclaramiento de creatinina 15,3 ± 2,1 mL/min. Se recogieron variables bioquímicas, antropométricas y de ingesta (registro dietético de tres días), que fueron comparadas con las recomendaciones para pacientes con ERC y, si no existían, con las recomendaciones y objetivos nutricionales para población española. Se valoró el estado nutricional mediante criterios modificados de desgaste proteico energético (DPE). Resultados: la ingesta energética media fue de 23,2 ± 6,5 kcal/kg peso/día y la ingesta proteica, de 0,93 ± 0,2 g/kg peso/día. Los hombres presentaban una ingesta mayor de alcohol y vitamina D y las mujeres, de ácidos grasos trans y vitamina B1. Un 91,4% presentaba ingesta elevada de fósforo y un 73%, de potasio. Solo el 2,7% presentaba ingesta adecuada de vitamina D y el 21,6%, de folatos. El 18,9% presentaba DPE. Se encontró una correlación positiva entre albúmina, índice de masa corporal (IMC) y aclaramiento de creatinina. Conclusión: la mayoría de los pacientes con ERC sin diálisis no cumplen las recomendaciones de ingesta ni los objetivos nutricionales, independientemente del sexo y de la situación de DPE, considerando la función renal como un factor limitante (AU)

Background: Diet is one of the pillars of the treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease without dialysis (NDD-CKD). Despite this, very few studies have evaluated the diet in Spanish population. Objective: To evaluate the diet of a group of patients with advanced CKD, comparing it with the recommendations, and its relation with nutritional status. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study of 74 patients (39 men), with a mean age of 70.9 ± 13.6 years and creatinine clearance of 15.3 ± 2.1 mL/min. Biochemical, anthropometric and intake variables (3-day dietary record) were collected, comparing them with the recommendations for patients with CKD and, if they did not exist, with nutritional recommendations and objectives for the Spanish population. The nutritional status was assessed by modified criteria of protein-energy wasting (PEW). Results: The mean energy intake was 23.2 ± 6.5 kcal/kg body weight/day, and the protein intake was 0.93 ± 0.2 g/kg body weight/day. Men had a higher intake of alcohol and vitamin D whereas women presented a higher intake of trans fatty acids and vitamin B1. In addition, 91.4% of patients had high intake of phosphorus and 73% of potassium. Only 2.7% showed an adequate intake of vitamin D and 21.6% of folates; 18.9% of patients presented PEW. A positive correlation was found between albumin, body mass index (BMI) and creatinine clearance. Conclusion: Most patients with non-dialysis CKD do not meet dietary recommendations or nutritional goals, regardless of gender and PEW status, considering renal function as a limiting factor (AU)

Estimated Effects of Future Atmospheric CO2 Concentrations on Protein Intake and the Risk of Protein Deficiency by Country and Region.

BACKGROUND: Crops grown under elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations (eCO2) contain less protein. Crops particularly affected include rice and wheat, which are primary sources of dietary protein for many countries. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to estimate global and country-specific risks of protein deficiency attributable to anthropogenic CO2 emissions by 2050. METHODS: To model per capita protein intake in countries around the world under eCO2, we first established the effect size of eCO2 on the protein concentration of edible portions of crops by performing a meta-analysis of published literature. We then estimated per-country protein intake under current and anticipated future eCO2 using global food balance sheets (FBS). We modeled protein intake distributions within countries using Gini coefficients, and we estimated those at risk of deficiency from estimated average protein requirements (EAR) weighted by population age structure. RESULTS: Under eCO2, rice, wheat, barley, and potato protein contents decreased by 7.6%, 7.8%, 14.1%, and 6.4%, respectively. Consequently, 18 countries may lose >5% of their dietary protein, including India (5.3%). By 2050, assuming today's diets and levels of income inequality, an additional 1.6% or 148.4 million of the world's population may be placed at risk of protein deficiency because of eCO2. In India, an additional 53 million people may become at risk. CONCLUSIONS: Anthropogenic CO2 emissions threaten the adequacy of protein intake worldwide. Elevated atmospheric CO2 may widen the disparity in protein intake within countries, with plant-based diets being the most vulnerable. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP41.

Associations between neighborhood food environments and deficient protein intake among elderly people in a metropolitan suburb: A case study in Kisarazu city, Japan.

OBJECTIVES: Living in a poor food environment and its association with an increased risk of inadequate nutrient intake are increasingly important issues in Japan due to an increase in the elderly population. METHODS: The present study examined the relationships between neighborhood food environment and the protein and fat intakes of elderly Japanese individuals (n = 181) living in the metropolitan Tokyo suburb of Kisarazu. RESULTS: A logistic regression analysis adjusted for sociodemographic and shopping behavior variables revealed associations between subjectively evaluated poor neighborhood food environment and deficient protein intake. However, there was no significant association between excessive fat intake and neighborhood food environments. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that living in a poor neighborhood food environment, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in Japan and other developed countries, has the potential to result in malnutrition, or at least in a low-quality diet, in elderly populations.

Integrative Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis of Risk Factors for Kashin-Beck disease.

To determine the current evidence on risk factors for Kashin-Beck disease (KBD) using an integrative meta-analysis. We searched five English and three Chinese databases from inception to September 2015, to identify case-control studies that examined risk factors for KBD using multivariate logistic analysis. DerSimonian and Laird effective models are applied in processing data using pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Seven studies were identified with 3087 cases and 6402 controls. The main risk factors found to be significantly associated with the onset of KBD were age (OR 1.19, 95 % CI 1.10-1.28), parents prevalence (OR 5.16, 2.51-7.80), family hygiene (OR 1.68, 1.42-1.93), food source (OR 3.29, 2.38-4.19), wheat (OR 1.12, 1.08-1.16), wheat germ necrosis rate (OR 6.03, 1.87-12.92), total volatile basic nitrogen (OR 6.85, 1.01-28.67), low selenium in hair (OR 2.29, 1.08-3.50) were found to be significant risks factors. The pooled ORs (95 % CI) of protein intake and rice were 0.79 (0.66-0.93) and 0.90 (0.86-0.95), respectively, indicating that the two factors may be protective for KBD. We found that the combination of low protein intake, polluted grain, and selenium deficiency may contribute to be onset of KBD together.

Protein malnutrition incidence comparison after gastric bypass versus biliopancreatic diversion / Comparación de la incidencia de malnutrición proteica tras bypass gástrico versus derivación biliopancreática

Background: bariatric surgery is widely employed nowadays. Nutritional complications following malabsorptive bariatric surgery are common. Objectives: to compare protein malnutrition incidence, the amount of protein intake and the influence of various risk factors in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). Methods: retrospective study comparing the development of hypoalbuminemia in 92 patients undergoing BPD and 121 RYGB, before surgery and 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after it. Protein intake was estimated by serum prealbumin. The influence of prior body mass index (BMI), age and sex was analyzed. Results: hypoprealbuminemia was found in around 40% of patients 3 months after both procedures, decreasing to about 10% after 2 years of surgery. Hypoalbuminemia incidence was close to 20% in the first post-surgery year in BPD, persisting in 10-15% of cases thereafter. After RYGB, hypoalbuminemia incidence was lower (5-9% in all postoperative follow-up measurements). During the first year after surgery, hypoalbuminemia was more frequent after BPD than after RYGB (at the 3rd month (OR:3.9; p=0.006; 95%CI:1.5-10.4), 6th (OR:5.0; p=0.002; 95% CI:1.8-13.8), and at the 12th month (OR:4.4;p=0.007;95%;CI:1.5-12.8)), but not after the first year. A higher preoperative BMI favored it (OR: 1.03; p=0.046; 95% CI:1-1.06), as well as greater age during the first 6 months. Conclusion: Patients with BPD had a higher risk for hypoproteinemia than those undergoing RYGB, especially during the first year post-surgery. Higher preoperative BMI, and age (in the short-term period) could have a significant inverse relation to hypoproteinemia (AU)

Introducción: la cirugía bariátrica es muy empleada actualmente y en las malabsortivas, las complicaciones nutricionales son habituales. Objetivos: comparar la incidencia de malnutrición proteica e ingesta estimada de proteínas en pacientes intervenidos de bypass gástrico en Y-de-Roux (BGYR) y derivación biliopancreática (DBP), y la influencia de algunos factores de riesgo. Métodos: estudio restrospectivo comparando el desarrollo de hipoalbuminemia en 92 pacientes intervenidos mediante DBP y 121 de DBP (prequirúrgico, a los 3, 6, 12, 18 y 24 meses postquirúrgicos). La ingesta proteica se estimó mediante prealbúmina. Se evaluó la influencia del índice de masa corporal (IMC) previo, la edad y el sexo. Resultados: se encontró hipoprealbuminemia en torno al 40% de los pacientes a los 3 meses tras ambas técnicas, disminuyendo hasta el 10% a los dos años. La incidencia de hipoalbuminemia fue cercana al 20% durante el primer año tras DBP, persistiendo posteriormente en un 10-15% de los casos. Tras el BGYR, dicha incidencia fue menor (5-9% en todos los momentos). Así, durante el primer año postquirúrgico la hipoalbuminemia fue más frecuente tras DBP [3 meses: (OR:3,9;p=0,006; 95%CI:1,5- 10,4), 6 meses (OR:5,0; p=0,002; 95% CI:1,8-13,8), y al año (OR:4,4;p=0,007;95%;CI:1,5-12,8)], pero no así después. Un mayor IMC prequirúrgico favoreció la inicidencia de hipoalbuminemia (OR:1,03; p=0,046; 95% CI:1-1,06), así como una mayor edad a los 6 meses postquirúrgicos. Conclusión: los pacientes intervenidos mediante DBP tuvieron mayor riesgo de presentar hipoproteinemia que tras BGYR, especialmente durante el primer año postquirúrgico. Un mayor IMC postquirúrgico y la edad (a los 6 meses) podrían favorecer la aparición de hipoproteinemia (AU)

Zinc status and dietary intake of pregnant women, Alexandria, Egypt.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Deficiencies of protein, energy, and micronutrients are highly prevalent in developing countries and have major effects on pregnancy outcome. Low dietary intake is the most common reason for zinc deficiency. The present research is part of a larger double-blind randomized-controlled trial to evaluate the effect of zinc supplementation on the pregnancy outcome. The aim of the present study was to assess the zinc status and dietary intake of zinc and other macronutrients and micronutrients among pregnant women in Alexandria, Egypt. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Participants were pregnant women attending two antenatal care centers that serve low-income and middle-income pregnant populations. A total of 1055 healthy pregnant women aged 20-45 years were assessed for eligibility. Of these, only 675 had serum zinc level below the median for the gestational age. They were assigned randomly to one of three parallel groups. Zinc supplements were provided from 16 weeks until delivery. A subsample of 100 women was assessed for their dietary intake. A questionnaire interview was used to collect basic socioeconomic and data on current pregnancy and labor. Dietary data were collected using the 24-h recall method and a food frequency questionnaire. The nutritive value of the daily diet was computed using the Egyptian food composition tables. The blood hemoglobin level, serum zinc level, and fasting blood sugar were determined. RESULTS: Zinc deficiency was detected among 53.5% of the sample. Dietary intake of zinc was low, representing 59.4, 59.4, and 62% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for the zinc group, zinc plus multivitamins, and the placebo group, respectively. The iron intake was below 50% of the RDA. Protein intake was less than 70% of the RDA. The mean intakes of fat were 191.97, 211.8, and 196.3 g/day for the three groups. The mean energy intake represented 51.1, 53.5, and 49.8% of the RDA. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Except for carbohydrate intake, the dietary intake of all macronutrients and micronutrients was low. The lowest intake was of iron (below 50% of the RDA). Zinc and protein intake represented less than 70% of the RDA. The overall energy intake was around 50% of the RDA. Nutritional health education should be used as a preventive approach to allow the large sector of the low-income population to maximize the use of the limited resources in the best way. In women at high risk of zinc deficiency, zinc supplementation should be added to the routine supplements.

Asociación entre excreción peritoneal de proteínas, episodios de peritonitis y D/P de fósforo en pacientes en diálisis peritoneal / Association between peritoneal protein excretion, peritonitis and D/P phosphate, in patients on peritoneal dialysis

Introducción: Se ha observado una relación entre el aumento de la transferencia de solutos (aumento del D/P de creatinina) y la disminución de la ultrafiltración, el aumento de la mortalidad y el riesgo de fracaso de la técnica en pacientes en diálisis peritoneal (DP). Las altas tasas de transporte de solutos se asocian con una mayor excreción peritoneal de proteínas (EPP) y esto se ha relacionado con un mayor riesgo de peritonitis. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la posible asociación entre la EPP, el número de episodios de peritonitis y el D/P de fósforo. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudió longitudinal de cohorte prospectivo en pacientes en DP, a los que se les midió el D/P de fósforo, la EPP, el número de episodios de peritonitis, parámetros de adecuación, así como diferentes variables clínicas y bioquímicas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 60 pacientes en programa de DP ambulatoria. Se encontró una correlación significativa positiva (r = 0,369; p = 0,005) entre el D/P de fósforo y la EPP, al igual que entre la EPP y el número de episodios de peritonitis (r = 0,65; p = 0,044). Finalmente, se encontró que a mayor EPP y a mayor D/P de fósforo, menor nivel sérico de albumina (r = -0,50, p = 0,001 y r = -0,621, p = 0,000, respectivamente). Conclusiones: La EPP se asocia significativamente con el número de episodios de peritonitis y el D/P de fósforo (AU)

Introduction: There is a relationship between increased transfer of solutes (increased D/P creatinine) and decreased ultrafiltration, increased mortality and risk of technique failure in peritoneal dialysis patients. High rates of solute transport are associated with increased peritoneal protein excretion (PPE) and this has been associated with an increased risk of peritonitis. Our objective was to evaluate the possible association between the PPE, the number of episodes of peritonitis and the D/P phosphate. Material and methods: A prospective longitudinal cohort study in PD patients. D/P phosphate, PPE, the number of episodes of peritonitis, as well as adequacy parameters and clinical and biochemical variables were measured. Results: We included 60 patients on ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. We found a significant positive correlation (r=.369, P=.005) between the D/P phosphate and PPE, as well as between the PPE and the number of episodes of peritonitis (r=.65, p=.044). Finally, we found that the higher PPE and D/P phosphate, the lower serum albumin was (r=-0.50, p=.001 and r=-0.621, p=.000, respectively). Conclusions: The EPP is significantly associated with the number of episodes of peritonitis and the D/P phosphate (AU)

Desayuno y funciones cognitivas en la infancia y adolescencia. Una revisión sistemática / Breakfast and cognitive functions in childhood and adolescence. A systematic review

Fundamento: Los beneficios del desayuno cuentan con un soporte experimental, disponiéndose de datos metabólicos, fisiológicos y funcionales (memoria, atención). La ausencia de desayuno altera la disponibilidad de glucosa y otros nutrientes necesarios para la síntesis de neurotransmisores. El objetivo es analizar la literatura existente sobre los efectos del desayuno (y/o su ausencia) en el rendimiento cognitivo de niños-adolescentes, los posibles efectos de cantidad y calidad del desayuno, sus características glucémicas, el efecto a corto y largo plazo, y la influencia del estado nutricional previo. Métodos: Búsqueda bibliográfica en la base de datos Medline, desde 1975, sobre desayuno y función cognitiva en niños y adolescentes. Se recuperaron 331 artículos; 76 satisfacían los criterios de inclusión definidos. Resultados: El desayuno tiene un efecto positivo a corto plazo sobre determinadas funciones cognitivas. Los efectos a largo plazo, derivados de programas de desayuno en la escuela podrían deberse más a un menor absentismo escolar que al hecho en sí del desayuno. El desayuno de bajo índice glucémico (IG) parece reportar más beneficios que el alto IG. No están claros los efectos de la cantidad de desayuno o el momento de la toma, ni los mecanismos específicos por los que el desayuno mejora el rendimiento. La omisión del desayuno produce efectos más negativos si el niño presenta desnutrición o riesgo de desnutrición. Conclusiones: Hay un suficiente soporte experimental en la actualidad para sostener las ventajas del desayuno en el desempeño cognitivo de niños y adolescentes (AU)

ackground: The benefits of breakfast have experimental support, with well-known data about metabolic and physiological functions (memory, attention). The absence of breakfast alters the availability of glucose or certain nutrients needed for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. The objective was to analyse the existing literature on the effects of breakfast (and/or its absence) in cognitive performance of children and adolescents, to determine the possible effects of quantity and quality of breakfast, its glycemic characteristics, the short-term and long-term effects and the influence of the prior nutritional status. Methods: Literature search in Medline since 1975, on breakfast and cognitive function in children and adolescents. Some 331 papers were retrieved; 76 met the inclusion criteria. Results: Breakfast has a positive short-term effect on certain cognitive functions. The long term effects resulting from breakfast school programs could be due to a lower absenteeism more than to direct breakfast effect. A low glycemic index (GI) breakfast seems to report more benefits than the high GI one. It is not clear neither the effects of breakfast amount or breakfast timing nor the specific mechanisms by which breakfast improves performance. The omission of breakfast causes more negative effects if children show symptoms of malnutrition or risk of malnutrition. Conclusion: There is sufficient experimental support at present to sustain the benefits of breakfast on cognitive performance of children and adolescents (AU)

[The estimation of risk of deficit consumption of proteins, vitamins and substance mineral adult population of Samara].

Survey of the brainwork workers with low physical activity has revealed the risks of inadequate consumption of fiber, calcium, iron, vitamins B1, B2, C, A, due to mismanagement of their consumption.

[Nutrition and health status of pregnant women in 8 provinces in China].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate nutrition and health status of pregnant women in China. METHODS: 16 counties cities in 8 Provinces in China were selected to investigate nutrition and health information for pregnant women. RESULTS: The averaged age of pregnant women was 27.1 years old, and 6.3 percent of pregnant women are over 35 years old. The proportion rates of pregnant women who consumed supplements before or during pregnance accounted for 81.8% in city and 57.8% in rural (P < 0.01). Anaemia prevalence was 14% with significant difference between urban and rural, P < 0.01. The rate of sural spasm during pregnancy was 39.3%. Low daily intakes of protein, retinol equivalence, calcium, iron were the major nutritional problem. Calcium deficiency was the leading problem. Pregnant women got health improvement kowlege mainly from relatives, friends, hospitals or medical centers, books and televisions, furthermore, internet was a main media for city women. CONCLUSION: Low daily intakes of protein and micronutrients were major problems for pregnant women.

Consuming cassava as a staple food places children 2-5 years old at risk for inadequate protein intake, an observational study in Kenya and Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Inadequate protein intake is known to be deleterious in animals. Using WHO consensus documents for human nutrient requirements, the protein:energy ratio (P:E) of an adequate diet is > 5%. Cassava has a very low protein content. This study tested the hypothesis that Nigerian and Kenyan children consuming cassava as their staple food are at greater risk for inadequate dietary protein intake than those children who consume less cassava. METHODS: A 24 hour dietary recall was used to determine the food and nutrient intake of 656 Nigerian and 449 Kenyan children aged 2-5 years residing in areas where cassava is a staple food. Anthropometric measurements were conducted. Diets were scored for diversity using a 12 point score. Pearson's Correlation Coefficients were calculated to relate the fraction of dietary energy obtained from cassava with protein intake, P:E, and dietary diversity. RESULTS: The fraction of dietary energy obtained from cassava was > 25% in 35% of Nigerian children and 89% of Kenyan children. The mean dietary diversity score was 4.0 in Nigerian children and 4.5 in Kenyan children, although the mean number of different foods consumed on the survey day in Nigeria was greater than Kenya, 7.0 compared to 4.6. 13% of Nigerian and 53% of Kenyan children surveyed had inadequate protein intake. The fraction of dietary energy derived from cassava was negatively correlated with protein intake, P:E, and dietary diversity. Height-for age z score was directly associated with protein intake and negatively associated with cassava consumption using regression modeling that controlled for energy and zinc intake. CONCLUSIONS: Inadequate protein intake was found in the diets of Nigerian and Kenyan children consuming cassava as a staple food. Inadequate dietary protein intake is associated with stunting in this population. Interventions to increase protein intake in this vulnerable population should be the focus of future work.

The nutritional status of patients admitted to Priest Hospital.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition in the Buddhist Priest Patients on admission to Priest Hospital. MATERIAL AND METHOD: During September 2007, 97 Buddhist Priest admitted to Priest Hospital were assessed for their nutritional status by using Subjective global assessment (SGA) and Body mass index (BMI). Serum albumin, hematocrit, and total lymphocyte count (TLC) were also evaluated. RESULT: The status of Protein-calorie malnutrition was found to be 41.3% due to subjective global assessment and 39.2% due to body mass index. Overweight patient found to be 16.5%. There were 16.5%, 83.5% and 20.6% of patients who had serum albumin, hematocrit, and total lymphocyte count below acceptable level. CONCLUSION: Malnutrition status in priests admitted to the Priest Hospital should be concerned and be properly managed for improved clinical outcome.

Impact of protein deficiency on venous ulcer healing.

OBJECTIVE: The prevalence of protein deficiency and its impact on wound healing is not known for leg ulcers. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of protein deficiency in outpatients presenting with leg ulcers and the parameter's prognostic value for wound outcome. DESIGN OF STUDY: Prospective controlled observational study. SETTING: Ambulatory patients referred for chronic wounds to four university hospitals. METHODS: Consecutive out-patients with a leg ulcer present for at least 2 months, related to venous insufficiency, associated or not with moderate peripheral arterial disease (ankle-brachial pressure index > 0.7), were included in a prospective study. Wound evaluation (area and occurrence of complications) was performed at baseline and at 12 weeks of follow-up. Biologic nutrition assessment (serum albumin, transthyretin, c-reactive protein) was performed at baseline. The control group consisted of consecutive patients free of leg ulceration and attending the dermatology outpatient clinic for remissive skin cancer or miscellaneous skin disorders. RESULTS: Forty one patients and 43 controls were included. Serum albumin level was under 35 g/L (normal values: 36-44 g/L) in 27% of the patients and 2% of the controls (P < .001). At 12 weeks, 34% of the patients had an increase in wound area. Wound infections occurred in 12% (n = 5) of the patients. Protein deficiency was independently associated with an increase in wound area at 12 weeks (P = .034) and the presence of an inflammatory syndrome was associated with the occurrence of wound complications (wound infection or hospitalization) during follow-up (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of protein deficiency in out-patients with leg ulcers is high and significantly associated with a poor healing prognosis.