Adequate Nutrient Intake Research Articles

Methodology for developing and validating Bangladesh healthy eating index: A study protocol.

One of the widely used methods for evaluating the overall quality of a diet is the Healthy Eating Index. In the present study protocol, we lay out the methodological approach to the development and validation of a healthy eating index specific for the Bangladeshi population (hereinafter referred to as Bangladesh Healthy Eating Index (BD-HEI)). Bangladesh Healthy Eating Index will be developed based on the Food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) of Bangladesh. Using a scoring system that aligns with the eleven food groups outlined in the FBDG, the index will consist of eleven eating components. A cross-sectional community nutrition survey will be carried out among 1080 reproductive-aged women. Through this survey, quantitative dietary data will be collected following multiple pass 24h dietary recall method. Repeated 24-hour dietary data (of two consecutive days) will be collected from one-third of the respondents. Evaluating usual food and nutrient intake as well as the probability of nutrient intake adequacy, the study will examine the validity of the BD-HEI. Following a suitable statistical procedure, the reliability and construct validity of BD-HEI will be evaluated. Country-specific HEI can be used to assess the dietary quality of the people of that country. The findings from this research can inform policy decisions and strategies to promote healthier eating habits and combat the rising burden of diet-related diseases in the country.

Effect of Diet and Dietary Patterns on the Progression of Multiple Sclerosis: A Review

The link between diet and the progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a topic of growing interest and investigation within the medical community. This review explored the mechanisms through which dietary interventions can impact the course of MS and shape the clinical outcomes and quality of life of individuals with the disease. By synthesizing current knowledge from clinical studies and observational research, the review aimed to provide insights into the role of diet in managing MS. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, focusing on the effect of diet and dietary patterns on the progression of MS. Key findings indicated that individuals with higher diet quality exhibit reduced disability levels and lower symptom severity, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and adopting a holistic, healthy lifestyle in managing MS. The review also delved into the potential impact of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals on the progression of MS, highlighting the importance of adequate nutrient intake for optimal health outcomes. Additionally, the study explored the association between dietary intake variations and the severity of MS, suggesting that further investigation is needed to understand the potential implications of nutrient deficiencies in MS patients. Overall, the review serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals and individuals living with MS, providing evidence-based dietary approaches that may help optimize health outcomes and mitigate the burden of the disease. It also calls for future research directions in the critical area of dietary management of MS to enhance our understanding and improve patient care.

The association between early postoperative food intake and postoperative hospital length of stay in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A retrospective observational single-center study

Background & AimsPerioperative nutritional status is critical during the postoperative recovery process in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Several studies on patients undergoing cardiac surgery have reported low energy intake in early postoperative food intake via oral nutrition; however, no study has shown an association of low energy intake with postoperative hospital length of stay (LOS). This study aimed to determine whether early postoperative low food intake was associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. MethodsThis was a retrospective, observational, single-center study conducted in patients aged ≥18 years undergoing elective cardiac surgery from January 1, 2020, to May 31, 2023. Patients were categorized by food intake as food intake < 50% (low food intake group) and ≥ 50% (adequate food intake group) at lunch on postoperative day (POD) 3. The primary outcome of this study was the postoperative hospital LOS. A generalized linear model was used to examine the association between food intake and postoperative hospital LOS using the following explanatory variables: age, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) II value, preoperative risk of malnutrition, activities of daily living status, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, and C-reactive protein level. ResultsOf the 315 patients, 104 (33.0%) had a food intake of <50% on POD3. There were no significant differences in age, sex, EuroSCORE II value, and comorbidities between the two groups. Patients in the low-food intake group had a significantly lower Barthel Index (6.7% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.017) and a higher malnutrition risk according to the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form score (40.4% vs. 28.2%, p = 0.043). Food intake of <50% on POD3 was associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS (β = 1.135 [95% confidence interval: 1.004–1.262], p = 0.018). ConclusionsLow food intake on POD3 is associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Early postoperative food intake should be closely monitored in patients after elective cardiac surgery.

Overview of Dietary Supplements Use: A Narrative Review

Abstract: Dietary supplements are ingestible nutrient products used in individuals’ diets to meet their adequate intake of nutrients required for general health purposes. This review aims to explore the impact of using dietary supplements in relation to communicable and non-communicable diseases, as well as some adverse effects caused by dietary supplements. Findings indicated that vitamin D supplements can aid in recovery from flu and COVID-19. Folic acid can reduce stroke incidents among adults with hypertension. Moreover, vitamin C or calcium intake is significantly associated with lowering diabetes risk. Advantageous effects have been reported of high doses of vitamin C against breast cancer. Moreover, frequent consumption of vitamin E reduced the risk of chronic lung diseases by 10%. In conclusion, the present review confirms the beneficial health effects of dietary supplement consumption and suggests further investigations for a better understanding of their mechanisms in the prevention and treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Factors Related To Compliance With The Consumption Of Iron Tablets In Adolescent Females

Background : Anemia is a condition characterized by decreased hemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and impaired oxygen requirements. One type of anemia that is often experienced by adolescents is iron deficiency anemia, due to the high iron requirements for adolescent growth which is inversely proportional to the amount of iron intake of adolescents. Many factors cause adolescent girls not to consume or still low consumption of Iron Supplement Tablets in Adolescent Girls. This study aims to determine the factors that influence compliance in taking iron tablets in adolescent girls at SMP Negeri 1 Kotabunan. Materials and Methods: This type of research uses quantitative observational analytic with a cross-sectional approach conducted on 74 female students taken from total sampling. Data collection was obtained from a research instrument in the form of a questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out by univariate analysis carried out on each variable and bivariate using the Charles Spearman Correlation Test or Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient with a confidence level (alpha) of 0.05. Results:of the study showed that respondents started menstruating at the age of 11-12 years by 35%, adolescent girls were obedient in consuming iron tablets by 57 people (77%), knowledge of adolescent girls by 67 people (90.5%) with a good category, Teacher Support 82.4%, Family 66.2% and Peers 77% supported adolescent girls consuming iron tablets, the correlation coefficient value with the Spearman's Rank test. for knowledge with compliance in consuming iron tablets 0.000, teacher support 0.003, family support 0.000 and peer support 0.007. There is a relationship between the level of knowledge, teacher support, family support and peer support with compliance in consuming iron tablets with a correlation coefficient value (sig.2-tailed) &lt;0.05. Conclusion: Adolescents in the growth and development period require adequate nutrient intake including the consumption of iron tablets to avoid anaemia. This study shows that factors associated with adherence to iron tablet consumption in adolescent girls are knowledge, attitude, parental support and teacher support.

Infants Sucking Pattern Identification Using Machine-Learned Computational Modeling

Abstract Breastfeeding involves a complex coordination of swallowing, breathing, and sucking, with the infant's sucking proficiency being crucial for adequate nutrient intake. However, real-time assessment of milk intake is difficult, and issues with sucking often become apparent after the infant shows signs of nutrient deficiency. Traditional assessments by clinicians rely on the expertise and subjective judgment of healthcare professionals, enabling personalized evaluations. In this research, we introduce a novel approach to identifying sucking patterns by leveraging data collected from infants during breastfeeding sessions. This method utilizes artificial nipple-based sensors to capture the tongue forces exerted by infants, generating valuable clinical data. In the analysis of the collected time-series data, we applied machine-learned computational modeling (MLCM) algorithms to extract pertinent features and identify distinctive sucking patterns. The best-performing model demonstrated an accuracy of 90%, an 80% recall score, a perfect 100% precision score, a 0.90 f1-score, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.80. The proposed classification system has the potential to serve as a reliable decision-support tool for clinicians, offering valuable insights into infants' sucking behaviors. By integrating machine learning (ML)-based computational modeling into clinical practice, we aim to enhance the early identification of unhealthy sucking patterns, allowing for timely interventions and pro-active healthcare management.

Assessment of energy and nutrient intake adequacy and dietary diversity of pregnant women in Abidjan

Background: Dietary diversity is a potential indicator of adequate nutrient intake. Aims: The study assessed dietary diversity and adequacy of nutrient intake among pregnant women in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire). Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 389 healthy pregnant adult women aged 20 to 43. Participants completed a three-day, 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire and dietary data were converted into nutrient amounts using Nutrisurvey software. Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) was based on nine food groups aggregated from a 15-item questionnaire. Nutrient intake was assessed using the Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (NAR) with the mean adequacy ratio (MAR) serving as an overall indicator of diet quality. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: The mean DDS among pregnant women was low at 4.30 ± 1.04, with diet primarily consisting of cereals, white tubers, roots, vegetables and fish. The average energy intake of pregnant women was 2429 kcal/day for over 60 % of participants. While the majority met the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and vitamin B12. However, intakes of calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, folates and vitamin C were below the RDAs for most pregnant women. The average MAR for pregnant women was 70.86% and exhibited a positive correlation with DDS (r = 0.37; p &lt; 0.001). NAR for energy and other nutrients was positively correlated with DDS, except for vitamins B12 and C. Conclusions: Pregnant women with adequate nutrient intakes consumed a diverse range of foods. Dietary diversity can therefore provide be a reliable indicator of nutrient adequacy in the diets of pregnant women in Abidjan’s hospital. Keywords: Dietary diversity, nutrient intake, nutrient adequacy ratio, pregnant women, Côte d'Ivoire.

Contribution of fortified foods and dietary supplements to total nutrient intakes and their adequacy in Japanese adults

BackgroundThis study examined how fortified foods and dietary supplements contributed to total nutrient intakes and their adequacy in Japanese adults.MethodsNutrient intake was estimated from 4-day dietary records of 392 adults (20–69 years) in total intake considering intakes from fortified foods and dietary supplements and in base diets without considering their intake. Users were defined as participants who used at least one fortified foods and/or dietary supplements during the 4-day recording period. The proportion of participants whose intake was below the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) or exceeded the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) provided in the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese was calculated.ResultsIn 122 identified users (31% of participants) of fortified foods and/or dietary supplements, the mean contributions of fortified foods and dietary supplements to total intake were < 4% and < 21%, respectively, for all 25 examined nutrients. Users were more likely to meet the EAR than non-users for six nutrients in the base diets and nine nutrients in the total intake. Among the users, the prevalence of participants below the EAR decreased by ≥ 10% in the total intake compared with the base diet for five nutrients. No nutrient intake from the base diet exceeded the UL in users and non-users; however, vitamin B6 intake in 2% of users exceeded the UL of their total intake.ConclusionAlthough the users of fortified foods and/or dietary supplements had better nutrient intake than non-users in base diets, fortified foods and dietary supplements helped the Japanese users achieve adequate intakes of certain nutrients without a risk of excessive intake (except for vitamin B6).

Dairy Consumption at Breakfast among Southeast Asian Children: Associations with Nutrient Intake from the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II (SEANUTS II).

Children's rapid growth requires adequate nutrient intake, with breakfast, especially when incorporating dairy, playing an important role. This study examined associations between dairy consumption at breakfast and energy and nutrient intake among children in Southeast Asia. Utilizing the cross-sectional South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II dataset, using a 24 h dietary recall and questionnaires distributed among 10,286 children aged 2 to 12 years from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, we investigated the impact of dairy consumption at breakfast on nutrient intake and examined associations between breakfast consumption and the prevalence of stunting and overweight/obesity among 10,135 children. Although most of the children consumed breakfast, only 37%, 27%, 16%, and 18% in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, respectively, included dairy in this meal, with younger children being significantly more likely to consume dairy at breakfast (p < 0.001). Dairy consumers had significantly higher intakes of vitamins A, B12, and D and calcium both at breakfast and throughout the day (p < 0.001). Breakfast skippers had a 29% increased risk of being overweight/obese. Dairy consumption at breakfast was associated with enhanced nutrient intake and overall diet quality among Southeast Asian children. The association between breakfast habits and anthropometric outcomes highlights the need to address nutritional deficiencies and promote healthy growth and development.

Validation of the minimum dietary diversity for women as a predictor of micronutrient adequacy among lactating women in Ethiopia.

The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) indicator is used as a proxy indicator for assessing micronutrient adequacy among women of the reproductive age group. Variations were observed in studies, and there was also a lack of evidence regarding the performance of this proxy indicator in Ethiopia, a country with diverse dietary consumption practices. This study aimed to validate the performance of the MDD-W in predicting micronutrient intake adequacy among lactating women in Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 457 lactating women in Northwest Ethiopia from February 2 to 18, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 457 study participants. A single multiphasic interactive 24-h dietary recall was used to collect dietary intake data. Ten food groups were used to compute the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women, and the Mean Adequacy Ratio was used to assess nutrient intake adequacy. Spearman's rank correlation test, Cohen's kappa statistics, and ROC curve analysis were conducted. The optimal cutoff points for Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women were determined by selecting the points that maximized the Youden index. MDD-W had poor positive correlation (ρ = 0.19, p < 0.001) and poor predictive ability (AUC = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.67) (p < 0.001) with the Mean Adequacy Ratio in determining micronutrient intake adequacy. The sensitivity and specificity of the MDD-W in the ≥5 food groups standard cutoff were 25.2 and 82.3%, respectively. The optimal cutoff point for MDD-W to predict micronutrient intake adequacy was ≥3 food groups. Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women had a poor correlation and poor predictive ability in predicting micronutrient intake adequacy. The variations noted in studies and differences from the Food and Agriculture Organization recommendations regarding the cutoff and level of performance of MDD-W in defining micronutrient adequacy warrant further investigation.

Nutrients, Diet Quality, and Dietary Patterns in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Comparative Analysis.

(1) Background: Diet plays an important role in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There are a number of methods available to assess the diets of patients with IBD, including nutrients, dietary patterns, and various appraisal tools of diet quality. However, research on diet quality and dietary patterns in IBD populations is limited, and comparative evaluations of dietary intake in patients with IBD have not been performed. (2) Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess nutrients, the dietary patterns, and diet quality of patients with IBD and to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns, diet quality, and the adequacy of nutrient intake. (3) Methods: Three-day food records of 268 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 126 patients with Crohn's disease (CD) were collected to estimate nutrients and food groups, while dietary quality was assessed using the Dietary Inflammation Index (DII) and Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS). Dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis (PCA). Participants' nutrient intake, diet quality, and dietary patterns were compared. We used binary logistic regression to assess the relationship between dietary patterns (independent variable) and nutritional adequacy (dependent variable). (4) Results: In our sample, patients had inadequate energy, protein, and dietary fiber intake compared with Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI). Regarding micronutrients, intakes of potassium, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, sodium, calcium, iron, niacin, thiamin, and riboflavin were inadequate. Regarding food groups, the highest intakes were fruits, legumes, dairy products, and nuts. PCA revealed four dietary patterns, namely DP1, DP2, DP3, and DP4. Among UC patients, 96, 55, 69, and 48 patients adhered to DP1, DP2, DP3, and DP4 dietary patterns, respectively. Among CD patients, 41, 31, 34, and 20 patients complied with the dietary patterns of DP1, DP2, DP3, and DP4, respectively. There was no significant difference in dietary patterns between UC and CD patients. Compared with DP4 (high intake of mixed legumes and low intake of tubers), DP1 (high intake of cereals, tubers, vegetables and eggs) was more likely to ensure adequate intake of energy (OR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.55, 5.62), protein (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.06, 3.96), carbohydrates (OR, 3.55; 95% CI, 1.51, 6.59), thiamine (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.36,4.93), niacin (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.39, 5.42), phosphorus (OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.08, 3.85), zinc (OR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.28, 4.63), and manganese (OR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.60, 5.90), and DP2 (high intake of fruits, poultry, aquatic products, and nuts) was more likely to meet niacin requirements than DP4 (OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.28, 5.48). (5) Conclusion: This study clarifies our understanding of dietary intake, diet quality, and dietary patterns in adult patients with IBD. Future attention is needed to improve diet quality, emphasizing the importance of assessing and understanding patient dietary habits and increasing understanding of the factors that influence dietary intake in IBD in order to achieve optimal outcomes for patients with IBD.

Risk factors associated with early childhood diarrhea: a case-control study

Purpose This study aims to explore the link between prevalent risk factors for early childhood diarrhea, including hygiene, feeding, weaning practices and maternal education and the occurrence and severity of early childhood diarrhea in Saudi Arabia. Design/methodology/approach A case-control study was conducted, involving 98 mothers from the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia (51 cases and 47 controls). Data were collected from both hospital and community sources. The collected data were statistically analyzed and depicted using descriptive statistics and frequency tables. Findings Demographic data revealed that 60% of mothers were housewives, 75% had normal deliveries and all babies were full term. In the study cohort, 44% of children aged one to two years. Four domains were compared: diarrheal management, hygiene, weaning and feeding practices. Diarrheal management was suboptimal in some cases: 29% increased fluid intake, 10% maintained adequate food intake, 50% sought medical advice, 58% were familiar with oral rehydration solutions and only 37% used them. Hygiene practices were deficient, with 35% using wipes or sanitizers, 64% handwashing before feeding and 52% adhering to the recommended 10-s duration. Controls exhibited better hygiene practices. Weaning practices were generally similar, with no significant differences between the two groups. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to collectively report on the risk factors linked to early childhood diarrhea in Saudi Arabia. This study yields significant insights, highlighting the crucial role of managing diarrhea, educating mothers and implementing proper household practices in impacting the occurrence and severity of this perilous ailment.

SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor with high quality of life and far exceeding predicted survival: A case report.

SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT) is a recently reported rare malignancy that can rapidly metastasize to tissues and organs throughout the body. The tumor is characterized by a lower response to platinum-based chemotherapy. More regrettably, the mean survival time of patients with this disease after diagnosis is only 4 to 7 months. A 58-year-old man was admitted to a hospital for fatigue, sudden syncope, and a mass-like shadow of his left upper lobe demonstrated by a pulmonary computed tomographic. Based on his subsequent clinical and pathological features, he was highly suspected of SMARCA4-UT. Combined with next-generation sequencing genetic testing and immunohistochemical examination results, the patient was diagnosed with SMARCA4-UT. The patient received a left upper lobectomy and lymph node dissection, four-course chemotherapy divided into 8 sessions with the use of paclitaxel simply, and a proper post-discharge self-care. The patient's operation and chemotherapy were all successful and he maintained a high quality of life after surgery that far exceeded his predicted survival. Early diagnosis, higher education level, attention to the disease and complications, reducing chemotherapy damage, adequate nutrient intake, relieving symptoms, controlling depression, and maintaining immunity and the ability to perform activities of daily living may all be the positive factors that can prolong the survival of patients with SMARCA4-UT.

Analysis correlation of the remaining tooth number and muscle mass in women 45 to 69 years old: a cross-sectional design

ABSTRACT Introduction: Tooth loss is a prevalent condition among older adults. Maintaining at least 20 teeth in the oral cavity is crucial for optimal masticatory function, which in turn is important for adequate nutrient intake, including protein necessary for muscle mass synthesis. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the number of remaining teeth and muscle mass in women aged 45-69 years, a demographic that typically begins to experience a decrease in muscle mass. Methods: The research used an analytical observational method with a cross-sectional design. Subjects were selected using purposive sampling techniques based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in a sample size of 60 participants. The independent variable was the number of remaining teeth, while the dependent variable was muscle mass. The number of remaining teeth was assessed using a disposable dental kit. Muscle mass was measured with a TanitaⓇ BC-541 digital body composition scale, and height was measured using a microtoise. All participants provided informed consent, and data were recorded on a measurement result sheet. The data were then tabulated and analyzed descriptively and using the Spearman correlation test, with a significance threshold set at 0.000 (p-value &lt;0.05). Results: The correlation coefficient was found to be 0.672, indicating a significantly positive correlation between the number of remaining teeth and muscle mass in women aged 45-69 years. Conclusion: A lower number of remaining teeth is associated with lower muscle mass in women aged 45-69 years.KEYWORDSElderly, tooth loss, muscle mass

The odds of having obesity in Egyptian children with autism spectrum disorders is higher than stunting compared to healthy developing peers: a national survey

BackgroundThe nutritional status and growth of children with Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is influenced significantly by two factors; food selectivity behaviors due to their consumption of a limited variety of food and the high incidence of gastrointestinal (GIT) disorders.AimThis study aimed to assess the nutritional adequacy and growth pattern of ASD children aged three to twelve years compared to their healthy developing peers.MethodsA national comparative, facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Egyptian governorates on 285 Egyptian children diagnosed with ASD and 224 children who are their relatives as healthy developing peers. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, including weight, height, head circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and all numbers were plotted on WHO growth charts. Assessment of food preferences, and nutrient intake adequacy of children was done using the Food preference questionnaire, and the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) of Egyptian children.ResultsCalorie-dense food and sugar intake were higher among ASD children than their healthy developing peers. ASD children omit some important protein sources such as dairy (COR = 5.2, 95% CI:2.7–9.9), meat, and poultry (COR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6–4.7), and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables than their healthy developing peers. For children with ASD in all age groups, a deficiency in the range of 50–60% was detected for vitamins (C, D, B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin) and minerals (iron). A deficiency in the range of 60–70% was detected for folate and calcium. A deficiency of vitamin C calcium and iron was also detected for both children with ASD and their healthy developing relatives aged 6 to 12 years. GIT disorders were common among ASD children compared to healthy developing peers (COR = 2.8 to 10.3). Children with ASD had four-fold higher odds of stunting (COR = 4.1, CI: 1.7–10.1), threefold higher odds of being overweight (COR = 3.3, CI: 1.48–7.32), and nearly eleven-fold higher odds of obesity (COR = 11.4, CI: 4.05–32.17) compared to their healthy developing peers.ConclusionASD children are prone to overweight and protein malnutrition. Their intake of fruits and vegetables is inadequate and hence their intake of vitamins and minerals is insufficient, contributing to stunting.

Impact of replacing protein pellets with soybean grain on nutrient utilization and the rumen and blood parameters of feedlot cattle under tropical conditions.

The aim of this study was to explore the effect of replacing protein pellets with soybean grain in high-concentrate diets with or without the addition of silage, on the intake, digestibility, and rumen and blood parameters of feedlot cattle in tropical regions. Four cannulated, crossbred steers were used, 4.5 ± 0.5 years old, with an average weight of 685.55 ± 111.78kg. The steers were distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square, in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme (two sources of protein: protein pellets or whole soybean grain, with or without added dietary bulk). There was no effect (P ≥ 0.109) from the interaction between the source of protein and the addition of silage to the diet on dry matter (DM) and nutrient intake, or the digestibility (P ≥ 0.625) of DM or crude protein (CP). However, both factors affected (P ≤ 0.052) the intake of DM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), as well as the independent digestibility (P ≤ 0.099) of fat, NFC, total carbohydrates (TC), and total cholesterol concentration. There was an effect (P ≤ 0.053) from the interaction between the source of protein and the addition of silage to the diet on the digestibility of NDF and total digestible nutrients (TDN), as well as on the glycose concentration (P = 0.003). Blood parameters (i.e. protein, albumin, creatinine, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)) were not affected (P ≥ 0.139) by the source of protein, the addition of silage, or their interaction. Lastly, including 150g/kg silage DM in a high-grain diet, and using soybean grain as a source of protein in substitution of protein pellet could be a suitable nutritional strategy to ensure adequate DM and nutrient intake and digestibility, with no detrimental effects on rumen and blood parameters of feedlot cattle in the tropics.

The effect of dietary changes on the water and carbon footprints in China

Dietary changes impact the production and consumption of plant and animal foods, thereby affecting water resource usage and greenhouse gas emissions. However, previous studies have ignored subnational differences in long-term dietary changes and environmental impacts. This study evaluated the environmental impacts of dietary changes in China from 1997 to 2016 by combining water and carbon footprints. Results indicated significant provincial differences in both total food consumption amounts (277.15 Mt to 445.58 Mt) and patterns. At the national level, water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of 10 main food items rose sharply from 437.52 ± 131.26 Gm3/yr to 671.13 ± 201.34 Gm3/yr and 273.66 ± 26.43 Mt CO₂ eq. to 443.50 ± 46.96 Mt CO₂ eq. As per capita animal-based food consumption first increased and then decreased, more developed regions with balanced diets showed water-saving and carbon reduction effects. For instance, Beijing reduced its water footprint by 50.44 m3/cap/yr and reduced carbon footprint by 186.05 kg CO₂ eq./cap/yr. In contrast, in less developed regions, animal food consumption has continued to grow over the last two decades, weighing the environmental impacts. Dietary changes in more developed regions can serve as references for less developed areas. Ensuring steady growth in animal food consumption for basic health needs can also support sustainable development. Furthermore, scenario analysis indicated that replacing all meat with plant-based food could achieve maximum water saving by 13 % and maximum emission reduction by 32 % with current energy and nutritional requirements, while towards national dietary guidelines would increase water consumption by 449.43 m3/cap and emissions by 8.48 CO2 eq./cap, dominated by increasing fruits and vegetables. Policies that affect consumers' choices of food patterns could focus more on promoting adequate and appropriate animal food intake towards healthy and environmentally friendly diets, particularly in less developed regions.

Protein-energy restriction-induced lipid metabolism disruption causes stable-to-progressive disease shift in Mycobacterium avium-infected female mice

Disease susceptibility and progression of Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) is associated with multiple factors, including low body mass index (BMI). However, the specific impact of low BMI on MAC-PD progression remains poorly understood. This study aims to examine the progression of MAC-PD in the context of low BMI, utilising a disease-resistant mouse model. We employed a MAC infection-resistant female A/J mouse model to compare the progression of MAC-PD under two dietary conditions: one group was fed a standard protein diet, representing protein-energy unrestricted conditions, and the other was fed a low protein diet (LPD), representing protein-energy restriction. Our results reveal that protein-energy restriction significantly exacerbates MAC-PD progression by disrupting lipid metabolism. Mice fed an LPD showed elevated fatty acid levels and related gene expressions in lung tissues, similar to findings of increased fatty acids in the serum of patients who exhibited the MAC-PD progression. These mice also exhibited increased CD36 expression and lipid accumulation in macrophages upon MAC infection. Invitro experiments emphasised the crucial role of CD36-mediated palmitic acid uptake in bacterial proliferation. Importantly, invivo studies demonstrated that administering anti-CD36 antibody to LPD-fed A/J mice reduced macrophage lipid accumulation and impeded bacterial growth, resulting in remarkable slowing disease progression. Our findings indicate that the metabolic status of host immune cells critically influences MAC-PD progression. This study highlights the potential of adequate nutrient intake in preventing MAC-PD progression, suggesting that targeting CD36-mediated pathways might be a host-directed therapeutic strategy to managing MAC infection. This research was funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea, the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, and the Korea National Institute of Health.

Iron deficiency in athletes: Prevalence and impact on VO2 peak

BackgroundIron is an important micronutrient in pathways of energy production, adequate nutrient intake and its balance is essential for optimal athletic performance. However, large studies elucidating the impact of iron deficiency on athletes’ performance are sparse. MethodsCompetitive athletes of any age who presented for preparticipation screening 04/2020–10/2021 were included in this study and stratified for iron deficiency (defined as ferritin level <20 µg/l with and without mild anemia [hemoglobin levels ≥11 g/dl]). Athletes with and without iron deficiency were compared and the impact of iron deficiency on athletic performance was investigated. ResultsOverall, 1190 athletes (mean age 21.9 ± 11.6 years; 34.2% females) were included in this study. Among these, 19.7% had iron deficiency. Patients with iron deficiency were younger (18.1 ± 8.4 vs. 22.8 ± 12.1 years, P < 0.001), more often females (64.5% vs. 26.8%, P < 0.001), had lower VO2 peak value (43.4 [38.5/47.5] vs. 45.6 [39.1/50.6]ml/min/kg, P = 0.022) and lower proportion of athletes reaching VO2 peak of >50 ml/min/kg (8.5% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.003). Female sex (OR 4.35 [95% CI 3.13–5.88], P > 0.001) was independently associated with increased risk for iron deficiency. In contrast, the risk for iron deficiency decreased by every life year (OR 0.97 [95% CI 0.95–0.99], P = 0.003). Iron deficiency was independently associated with reduced VO2 peak (OR 0.94 [0.91–0.97], P < 0.001) and lower probability to reach VO2 peak >50 ml/min/kg (OR 0.42 [95% CI 0.25–0.69], P = 0.001). ConclusionsIron deficiency is common in athletes (predominantly in female and in young athletes). Iron deficiency was independently associated with reduced VO2 peak during exercise testing and lower probability to reach a VO2 peak >50 ml/min/kg.

Strategies to Reduce Stunting Rates Through Increased Awareness and Collective Action in the Community of Setanggor Village East Lombok Regency

Setanggor is one of the villages located in the Sukamulia District, East Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province. The community in this village, 80% of whom work as farmers, spends a lot of time in the fields. However, the prevalence of stunting in this village is still relatively high. Therefore, the goal of the Community Service Program (KKN) by the Mataram University's PMD (Community Development Program) during the period of December 2023 to February 2024 is to assist the community in addressing stunting through increasing awareness and collective action in stunting prevention. The methods used include socialization, distribution of nutritious food, and Posyandu (Integrated Health Service Post). The results obtained from these activities include increased awareness and knowledge among the villagers regarding the importance of maintaining a healthy and clean lifestyle, as well as the need for adequate intake of nutritious food to prevent malnutrition in children