Nutritional Support of Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Function in Infants and Young Children-An Update and Novel Insights

Milk fat globule membrane and its polar lipids: reviewing preclinical and clinical trials on cognition

In most parts of the world, life expectancy is increasing thanks to improved healthcare, public health policies, nutrition, and treatment. This increase in lifespan is often not accompanied by an increase in health span, which severely affects people as they age. One notable consequence of this is the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, dietary and pharmaceutical measures must be taken to reduce the burden of such pathologies. Among the different types of nutrients found in the diet, lipids and especially polar lipids are very important for cognition due to their abundance in the brain. Amid the most studied sources of polar lipids, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) stands out as it is abundant in industrial by-products such as buttermilk. In this narrative review, we discuss the latest, i.e. less than five years old, scientific evidence on the use of MFGM and its polar lipids in cognitive neurodevelopment in early life and their potential effect in preventing neurodegeneration in old age. We conclude that MFGM is an interesting, abundant and exploitable source of relatively inexpensive bioactive molecules that could be properly formulated and utilized in the areas of neurodevelopment and cognitive decline. Sufficiently large randomized controlled trials are required before health-related statements can be made. However, research in this area is progressing rapidly and the evidence gathered points to biological, health-promoting effects.

Impact of varying maternal dietary folate intake on cerebellar cortex histomorphology and cell density in offspring rats

The cerebellum has a long, protracted developmental period that spans from the embryonic to postnatal periods; as a result, it is more sensitive to intrauterine and postnatal insults like nutritional deficiencies. Folate is crucial for foetal and early postnatal brain development; however, its effects on cerebellar growth and development are unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of maternal folate intake on the histomorphology and cell density of the developing cerebellum. Twelve adult female rats (rattus norvegicus) were randomly assigned to one of four premixed diet groups: standard (2 mg/kg), folate-deficient (0 mg/kg), folate-supplemented (8 mg/kg) or folate supra-supplemented (40 mg/kg). The rats started their diets 14 days before mating and consumed them throughout pregnancy and lactation. On postnatal days 1, 7, 21 and 35, five pups from each group were sacrificed, and their brains were processed for light microscopic analysis. Histomorphology and cell density of the external granule, molecular, Purkinje and internal granule layers were obtained. The folate-deficient diet group had smaller, dysmorphic cells and significantly lower densities of external granule, molecular, Purkinje and internal granule cells. Although the folate-enriched groups had greater cell densities than the controls, the folate-supplemented group had considerably higher cell densities than the supra-supplemented group. The folate supra-supplemented group had ectopic Purkinje cells in the internal granule cell layer. These findings imply that a folate-deficient diet impairs cellular growth and reduces cell density in the cerebellar cortex. On the other hand, folate supplementation increases cell densities, but there appears to be an optimal dose of supplementation since excessive folate levels may be detrimental.

Impact of a structured sleep education program on mothers' knowledge and attitudes toward infant sleeping

Introduction

Sleeping is necessary for the infant growth and development. Sufficient and quality of sleep can have an impact on physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. Infancy is a critical time for establishing healthy habits and routines. However, many infants were suffering from sleeping issues that impact their health.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the effect of educational programs given to mothers regarding their infants' sleep on mothers' knowledge and attitudes toward infant's sleeping.

Method

A quasi-experimental design for nonequivalent groups was used, and data was collected from 208 mothers with infants aged 5-12 months from all Jordanian governorates who had not been exposed to educational programs prior to this study. Data was collected in two stages: pre-test and post-test, with two weeks in between for both groups.

Results

The final results indicated that the educational intervention had a significant impact on mothers' knowledge over time. It was found that mothers in the intervention group had significantly higher mean of infant sleep health knowledge at follow up time compared to their baseline time (B = 0.236, P 0.001). Also, the yielded analysis showed that there was no significant change in mothers' mean attitudes toward infants sleeping over time (P = 0.011). The mothers' measured sleep health knowledge correlated positively and significantly statistically with their sleep health attitudes score (r = 0.436, P 0.010).

Association between breakfast patterns and executive function among adolescents in Shanghai, China

Introduction

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between breakfast patterns and executive function among adolescents in Shanghai, China.

Methods

In 2022, we randomly recruited 3,012 adolescents aged 12-13 years from all administrative districts in Shanghai. Breakfast information was collected by parents using a one-day recall method. Executive function was measured using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Parent Version. Latent Class Analysis was performed to identify breakfast patterns based on the food groups in the Diet Quality Questionnaire for China.

Results

Breakfast patterns were classified into three categories: "Egg and milk foods", "Grain foods", and "Abundant foods", except for adolescents who skipped breakfast. Logistic regression was used to estimate the multivariate odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the association between breakfast patterns and potential executive dysfunction. Adolescents in the "Abundant foods" class had a lower risk of executive dysfunction in terms of initiate (OR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.17-0.76), and organization of materials (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.04-0.94), compared to those who skipped breakfast. Similarly, the breakfast patterns of "Grain foods" and "Egg and milk foods" were associated with a lower risk of executive dysfunction, including initiate and working memory.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that breakfast patterns were associated with executive function. The improvement of breakfast patterns among adolescents should be a significant public health intervention.

Association between Prenatal Dietary Toxicants and Infant Neurodevelopment: The Role of Fish

More research is needed to understand how the maternal consumption of fish and fish-borne toxicants impacts infant neurodevelopment. The present analysis was conducted over 460 mother-infant pairs within the ECLIPSES study. Dietary intake of metals and persistent organic pollutants from fish (including white fish, blue fish, and seafood) was estimated in pregnant women. The infants underwent cognitive, language, and motor function assessments using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III at the 40-day postpartum. Associations between dietary toxicants and outcomes were assessed using multivariable linear regression models. Estimated prenatal exposure to fish-borne toxicants, such as arsenic, inorganic arsenic, methylmercury, dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs), and non-DL-PCBs, was associated with poorer language functions in infants, whereas no significant associations were found with motor or cognitive functions. Maternal fish consumption exceeding the Spanish recommendation of no more than 71 g per day was linked to these adverse effects on language abilities without affecting motor or cognitive development. This highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring of environmental toxicants and the provision of dietary guidance for pregnant women, with potential implications for public health and child development.

Nutrient-epigenome interactions: Implications for personalized nutrition against aging-associated diseases

Aging is a multifaceted process involving genetic and environmental interactions often resulting in epigenetic changes, potentially leading to aging-related diseases. Various strategies, like dietary interventions and calorie restrictions, have been employed to modify these epigenetic landscapes. A burgeoning field of interest focuses on the role of microbiota in human health, emphasizing system biology and computational approaches. These methods help decipher the intricate interplay between diet and gut microbiota, facilitating the creation of personalized nutrition strategies. In this review, we analysed the mechanisms related to nutritional interventions while highlighting the influence of dietary strategies, like calorie restriction and intermittent fasting, on microbial composition and function. We explore how gut microbiota affects the efficacy of interventions using tools like multi-omics data integration, network analysis, and machine learning. These tools enable us to pinpoint critical regulatory elements and generate individualized models for dietary responses. Lastly, we emphasize the need for a deeper comprehension of nutrient-epigenome interactions and the potential of personalized nutrition informed by individual genetic and epigenetic profiles. As knowledge and technology advance, dietary epigenetics stands on the cusp of reshaping our strategy against aging and related diseases.

Exploration of the impact of dysbiosis in the gut microbiota on microbial composition in children's neurodevelopment

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of gut microbiota dysbiosis on neurodevelopment in children.

METHODS

This study included 338 children aged 0-3 years admitted to our hospital from January to December 2022, The children were divided into a normal neurodevelopment group (169 cases) and a poor neurodevelopment group (169 cases). Basic personal information and clinical data were collected through a detailed questionnaire, and the microbial composition in fecal samples was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

RESULTS

Children in the poor neurodevelopment group showed a significant decrease in gut microbiota diversity compared to those in the normal neurodevelopment group (Shannon index, p < 0.05). The abundance of Bifidobacterium and Veillonella genera significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while the abundance of Streptococcus genus increased significantly (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There is an association between gut microbiota dysbiosis and poor neurodevelopment in children. The increased abundance of Streptococcus genus and decreased abundance of Bifidobacterium and Veillonella genera in the gut microbiota may be potential risk factors for poor neurodevelopment in preterm infants. Future research should further explore the potential beneficial effects of gut microbiota modulation on neurodevelopment in children.

Nutritional Quality Implications: Exploring the Impact of a Fatty Acid-Rich Diet on Central Nervous System Development

Given the comprehensive examination of the role of fatty acid-rich diets in central nervous system development in children, this study bridges significant gaps in the understanding of dietary effects on neurodevelopment. It delves into the essential functions of fatty acids in neurodevelopment, including their contributions to neuronal membrane formation, neuroinflammatory modulation, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Despite the acknowledged importance of these nutrients, this review reveals a lack of comprehensive synthesis in current research, particularly regarding the broader spectrum of fatty acids and their optimal levels throughout childhood. By consolidating the existing knowledge and highlighting critical research gaps, such as the effects of fatty acid metabolism on neurodevelopmental disorders and the need for age-specific dietary guidelines, this study sets a foundation for future studies. This underscores the potential of nutritional strategies to significantly influence neurodevelopmental trajectories, advocating an enriched academic and clinical understanding that can inform dietary recommendations and interventions aimed at optimizing neurological health from infancy.

A review of dairy food intake for improving health among black infants, toddlers, and young children in the US

Adequate nutrition is paramount for proper growth and musculoskeletal, neurocognitive, and immunological development in infants, toddlers, and young children. Among breastfeeding mother-child dyads, this critical window of development, is impacted by both maternal and offspring dietary patterns. For mothers, their dietary patterns impact not only their own health and well-being, but also the nutrition of their breast milk - which is recommended as the sole source of food for the first 6 months of their infant's life, and as a complementary source of nutrition until at least 2 years of age. For infants and toddlers, the breast milk, formulas, and first foods they consume can have both short-term and long-term effects on their health and well-being - with important impacts on their taste perception, microbiome composition, and immune function. According to dietary intake data in the US, infants and young children meet a greater number of nutrient requirements than older children and adults, yet numerous disparities among socially disadvantaged racial/ethnic groups still provide significant challenges to achieving adequate nutrition during these early life stages. For example, Black children are at greater risk for disparities in breastfeeding, age-inappropriate complementary feeding patterns, nutrient inadequacies, food insecurity, and obesity relative to most other racial/ethnic groups in the US. For infants who do not receive adequate breast milk, which includes a disproportionate number of Black infants, dairy-based infant formulas are considered the next best option for meeting nutritional needs. Fermented dairy foods (e.g., yogurt, cheese) can serve as ideal first foods for complementary feeding, and cow's milk is recommended for introduction during the transitional feeding period to help meet the nutrient demands during this phase of rapid growth and development. Low dairy intake may put children at risk for multiple nutrient inadequacies and health disparities - some of which may have lifelong consequences on physical and mental health. A burgeoning body of research shows that in addition to breast milk, cow's milk and other dairy foods may play critical roles in supporting physical growth, neurodevelopment, immune function, and a healthy gut microbiome in early life. However, most of this research so far has been conducted in White populations and can only be extrapolated to Black infants, toddlers, and young children. Therefore, to better understand and support the health and development of this population, greater research and education efforts on the role of milk and dairy products are urgently needed. This review presents the current evidence on health disparities faced by Black children in the US from birth to four years of age, and the role that dairy foods can play in supporting the normal growth and development of this vulnerable population.

Correlation between maternal and infant vitamin B12 levels in severe malnutrition in infants under 6 months

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition poses a significant global health challenge, affecting various age groups, with infants under 6 months being particularly vulnerable. Vitamin B12, an essential micronutrient critical for neurological development, has been identified as a key player in the overall health of both mothers and infants.

AIM

To find the correlation between serum vitamin B12 levels in infants, 1-6 months of age with severe malnutrition and maternal levels at tertiary care hospitals in western Rajasthan.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study was conducted in the UNICEF Regional Center of Excellence-supported Nutrition Rehabilitation Center in Rajasthan, India, through simple random sampling. One hundred ten infants with their mothers were enrolled after consent and approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee.

RESULTS

Severe malnutrition predominantly affected infants aged 1-2 months, with 77% born small for gestational age and 66.4% belonging to the multiple birth order group. Serum vitamin B12 levels showed a significant positive correlation between mothers and infants (p < 0.001), while exclusive breastfeeding correlated positively with age-appropriate milestones (p = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions addressing maternal and infant nutrition, with a focus on ensuring adequate vitamin B12 levels.

Unfavorable nutrient intakes in children up to school entry age: results from the nationwide German KiESEL study

Background

Nutrition in the first years of life is a cornerstone for child development and long-term health, yet there is a lack of current data on energy and nutrient intake among toddlers and preschoolers in Germany.

Objective

To analyze energy and nutrient intake in toddlers (1- to 2-year-olds) and preschoolers (3- to 5-year-olds) in Germany and compare the results with the Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) by the European Food Safety Authority.

Design

Dietary intake was assessed by weighed food record data (3 + 1 day) of 890 children from the representative cross-sectional Children's Nutrition Survey to Record Food Consumption (KiESEL), carried out in 2014-2017 as a module of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents Wave 2. For the calculation of energy and nutrient intake, the German Nutrient Database BLS 3.02, LEBTAB, and a supplement database were used.

Results

Median intakes of energy and most nutrients met or exceeded the DRVs in both toddlers and preschoolers. However, low intakes relative to DRVs were found for vitamin D (6-9% of DRV, including supplements) and iodine (57-65% of DRV). Age specific downward deviations were observed for iron intake in toddlers (75% of DRV) and for calcium intake in preschoolers (67-77% of DRV). In contrast, intakes were high for saturated fatty acids (SFA) (14-16 E%), mono-/disaccharides (60-87 g/day), and protein [2.1-2.6 g/(kg body weight*day)].

Conclusion

Nutrient imbalances in toddlers and preschoolers in Germany, which are partly age-related, give rise to concern. Research is needed to determine if routine vitamin D supplementation should be extended beyond infancy. Public health efforts to increase the rate of use of iodized salt and to reduce the intake of SFA and mono-/disaccharides in children's diets are to be strengthened.

Treadmill Exercise Reverses the Adverse Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Behavior and Cortical Spreading Depression in Young Rats

Intermittent fasting (IF) and physical exercise (PE) have beneficial psychological and physiological effects, improving memory and anxiety-like behavior. However, the impact of this combination on brain electrophysiological patterns is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the behavior and parameters of a brain excitability-related phenomenon named cortical spreading depression (CSD) in young rats (31-87 days of life) submitted to IF and treadmill PE for eight weeks. Sixty-four male and female Wistar rats aged 24 days were randomized into control, IF, PE, and IF+PE groups. Behavioral tests (open field (OF), object recognition, and elevated plus maze (EPM)) were performed, and the CSD propagation features were recorded. IF caused behavioral responses indicative of anxiety (lower number of entries and time spent in the OF center and EPM open arms). IF also reduced the discrimination index for object recognition memory tests and increased the propagation velocity of CSD. PE rats displayed more entries into the OF center and lowered CSD propagation speed. Data suggest that IF worsens anxiety-like behavior and memory and accelerates CSD in young rats. In contrast, PE reverted the unfavorable effects of IF. The brain effects of IF and PE at younger ages are recommended for study.

The Attitudes of 7-9 Year Old Primary School Students towards Food and Nutrition: Insights from Qualitative FGI Research-The Junior-Edu-Żywienie (JEŻ) Project

Optimal nutrition is one of the most significant environmental factors affecting human health. The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of primary school students aged 7-9 towards nutrition considering three fundamental components: knowledge, emotional disposition, and dietary behaviors. The research was conducted using the Focus Group Interview (FGI) technique among 78 children. Considering their attitudes towards food and nutrition, four profiles were identified: "engaged", "obedient", "reluctant", and "indifferent". Children who were "engaged" and "obedient" due to their parents' involvement in creating their dietary attitudes exhibited the most alignment with the principles of optimal nutrition. Regardless of profile type, it was observed that children were familiar with recommended and unrecommended food products, as well as the role of water in proper nutrition. It was demonstrated that parents wield the most substantial influence on children's nutrition. As a result, initiatives promoting the proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle should commence with parents. Children of nutritionally conscious parents tend to eat more healthily and demonstrate a high nutritional awareness. Conversely, the children of busy parents who lack time for meal preparation more frequently replicate their parents' nutritional mistakes. These findings emphasize the importance of the family environment in shaping the dietary behaviors of children and youth.

Improved Neurodevelopmental Outcomes at 5.5 Years of Age in Children Who Received Bovine Milk Fat Globule Membrane and Lactoferrin in Infant Formula Through 12 Months: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the neurodevelopmental outcomes at 5.5 years of age in children who were previously randomized to cow milk-based infant formula (control) or similar formula (milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin) with added sources of bovine milk fat globule membrane and bovine lactoferrin through 12 months of age.

DESIGN

Children who completed study feeding were invited to participate in follow-up assessments: cognitive development across multiple domains (primary outcome; Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence, 4th Edition), inhibitory control/rule learning (Stroop Task), flexibility/rule learning (Dimensional Change Card Sort), and behavior/emotion (Child Behavior Checklist).

RESULTS

Of 292 eligible participants (control: 148, milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin: 144), 116 enrolled and completed assessments (control: 59, milk fat globule membrane + LF: 57). There were no group demographic differences except family income (milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin significantly higher). Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence, 4th Edition composite scores (mean ± standard error) for Visual Spatial (100.6 ± 1.7 vs 95.3 ± 1.7; P = .027), Processing Speed (107.1 ± 1.4 vs 100.0 ± 1.4; P < .001), and Full-Scale IQ (98.7 ± 1.4 vs 93.5 ± 1.5; P = .012) were significantly higher for milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin versus control, even after controlling for demographic/socioeconomic factors. Stroop Task scores were significantly higher in milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin versus control (P < .001). Higher Dimensional Change Card Sort scores (P = .013) in the border phase (most complex/challenging) were detected, and more children passed the border phase (32% vs 12%; P = .039) for milk fat globule membrane versus control. No group differences in Child Behavior Checklist score were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Children who received infant formula to 12 months of age with added bovine milk fat globule membrane and bovine lactoferrin versus standard formula demonstrated improved cognitive outcomes in multiple domains at 5.5 years of age, including measures of intelligence and executive function.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04442477.

Milk-cereal mix supplementation during infancy and impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 12 and 24 months of age: a randomised controlled trial in India

Inadequate protein intake and lack of micronutrients may affect neurodevelopment in infants. This randomised controlled trial was conducted to measure the effect of two milk-cereal mixes with modest and high amounts of protein and enriched with multiple micronutrients, given between 6 and 12 months, on cognitive, language, motor and behavioural scores at 12 and 24 months of age, compared with no-supplementation. The two supplements were also compared with each other. The study was conducted in urban Delhi, India, and the infants were randomised in a 1:1:1 ratio to the three study groups. At 12 and 24 months of age, 1134 and 1214 children were available, respectively. At 12 months of age, compared with no-supplement group, an increase in the motor scores (mean difference, MD 1·52, 95 % CI: 0·28, 2·75) and a decrease in the infant temperament scores (MD - 2·76, 95 % CI: -4·23, -1·29) in the modest-protein group was observed. Those in the high-protein group had lower socio-emotional scores (MD - 1·40, 95 % CI: -2·43, -0·37) and higher scores on Infant Temperament Scale (MD 2·05, 95 % CI: 0·62, 3·48) when compared with modest-protein group. At 24 months, no significant differences in any of the neurodevelopment scores between the three study groups was found. In conclusion, supplementation with modest amount of protein and multiple micronutrients may lead to short-term small improvements in motor function and infant temperament. There appears no advantage of supplementing with high protein, rather negative effects on infant behaviour were observed.

Nutrient trajectories during infancy and their associations with childhood neurodevelopment

PURPOSE

To examine the associations between infants' dietary nutrient trajectories and subsequent neurodevelopment during childhood in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes study.

METHODS

One-day food records were collected at ages 6, 9 and 12 months, whilst Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-III and Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test-2 were conducted at ages 24 and 54 months respectively. Nutrient trajectories were constructed using multi-level mixed modelling and associations with neurodevelopment (24 months: n = 484; 54 months: n = 444) were examined using adjusted multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

At age 24 months, higher protein intake (at 6 months) and increasing rate of intake (from 6 to 12 months) were associated with higher fine motor score [β = 0.17 SD (95% CI 0.03, 0.31) and 0.62 SD (0.10, 1.14) respectively]. Higher fat intake was associated with higher receptive language score [0.04 SD (0.003, 0.07)], but increasing rate of intake was associated with lower expressive language [- 0.20 SD (- 0.39, - 0.01)] and fine motor [- 0.29 SD (- 0.48, - 0.10)] scores. Higher carbohydrate intake was associated with lower gross motor score [- 0.07 SD (- 0.14, - 0.005)], but increasing rate of intake was associated with higher receptive language [0.44 SD (0.08, 0.81)] and fine motor [0.56 SD (0.18, 0.93)] scores. Increasing rate of dietary fibre intake was associated with higher fine motor scores [0.63 SD (0.16, 1.10)]. No significant associations were observed with neurodevelopment at 54 months.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide greater understanding of how nutrition over time could have varying effects on child neurodevelopment.

Associations between Early Life Nutrient Intakes and Brain Maturation Show Developmental Dynamics from Infancy to Toddlerhood: A Neuroimaging Observation Study

BACKGROUND

Myelin imaging has increasingly been applied to study the impact of nutrition on brain development in recent years. Although individual dynamics for nutrient intakes and myelin trajectories previously have been investigated across childhood, the longitudinal interaction between both remains unclear in typically developed children.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this work was to explore the developmental dynamics of nutrient-myelin interactions from infancy to early childhood using myelin imaging as a marker for brain maturation.

METHODS

Brain neuroimaging (1 scan per child) and dietary nutrient intake data were analyzed for 88 nutrients from 293 children (127 female, 62% White) from a longitudinal cohort study in the United States. A sliding window approach was used to investigate correlations between nutrient intakes and brain myelination over a continuous set of age windows. Image processing techniques (Sobel-filter vertical edge detection) were applied to determine age windows with unique association profiles, providing novel insight into how these relationships change with child age.

RESULTS

We identified 3 nutrient-myelin windows covering the age range of 1-5 y: window 1 from 6 to 20 mo with 60% positive nutrient correlations, window 2 from 20 to 30 mo with 20% positive correlations, and window 3 from 30 to 60 mo with 37% positive correlations. The windows are aligned with reported myelin and white matter dynamics that change in the first 5 y from fast and steep (window 1) to continued but slower growth (window 3), with window 2 possibly representing the inflection period.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first study in typically developing children demonstrating the developmental dynamics between early life nutrient intakes and brain maturation in toddlerhood. The knowledge can be applied for identifying targeted and brain-stage-appropriate nutritional interventions for this critical stage of brain development.

Toward assessing the role of dietary fatty acids in lamb's neurological and cognitive development

Understanding and measuring sheep cognition and behavior can provide us with measures to safeguard the welfare of these animals in production systems. Optimal neurological and cognitive development of lambs is important to equip individuals with the ability to better cope with environmental stressors. However, this development can be affected by nutrition with a special role from long-chain fatty acid supply from the dam to the fetus or in lamb's early life. Neurological development in lambs takes place primarily during the first two trimesters of gestation. Through late fetal and early postnatal life, the lamb brain has a high level of cholesterol synthesis. This rate declines rapidly at weaning and remains low throughout adulthood. The main polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the brain are ω-6 arachidonic acid and ω-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are elements of plasma membranes' phospholipids in neuronal cells. DHA is essential for keeping membrane integrity and is vital for normal development of the central nervous system (CNS), and its insufficiency can damage cerebral functions and the development of cognitive capacities. In sheep, there is evidence that supplying PUFA during gestation or after birth may be beneficial to lamb productive performance and expression of species-specific behaviors. The objective of this perspective is to discuss concepts of ruminant behavior and nutrition and reflect on future research directions that could help to improve our knowledge on how dietary fatty acids (FA) relate to optimal neurological and cognitive development in sheep.

Liquid Biopsy in Adverse Neurodevelopment of Children: Problems and Prospects

Neurodevelopmental disorders in children have an important impact on the quality of life in the whole life cycle. Severe neurodevelopmental disorders will become a serious social and family burden and an important social and economic problem. The early and middle childhood is the critical period of children's neurodevelopment. Early diagnosis of neurological disorders plays an important role in guiding children's neurological development. Existing monitoring tools lack prenatal and even early assessment of children's neurodevelopment, so reliable biomarkers are conducive to personalized care at an earlier stage. In this review, we will discuss different methods of neurodevelopmental monitoring at different times and the role and evaluation of liquid biopsy in neurodevelopmental monitoring.

Dairy fortification as a good option for dietary nutrition status improvement of 676 preschool children in China: A simulation study based on a cross-sectional diet survey (2018-2019)

Background

Chinese children are deficient in several essential nutrients due to poor dietary choices. Dairy products are a source of many under-consumed nutrients, but preschool children in China consume dairy products significantly less than the recommended level.

Methods

From the cross-sectional dietary intake survey of infants and young children aged 0-6 years in China (2018-2019), preschool children (age: 3-6 years) (n = 676) were selected. The four-day dietary data (including 2 working days and 2 weekends) collected through an online diary with reference to the food atlas were used for analysis and simulation. In scenario 1, individual intake of liquid milk equivalents was substituted at a corresponding volume by soymilk, cow's milk, or formulated milk powder for preschool children (FMP-PSC). In scenario 2, the amount of cow's milk or FMP-PSC increased to ensure each child's dairy intake reached the recommended amount (350 g/day). In both scenarios, the simulated nutrient intakes and nutritional inadequacy or surplus were compared to the survey's actual baseline data.

Results

It was suggested suggested that replacing dairy foods with FMP-PSC at matching volume is better than replacing them with soymilk or cow's milk to increase the intake of DHA, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, vitamin A, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₃, vitamin B₁₂, vitamin C and vitamin D. Moreover, our results suggested that adding FMP-PSC to bring each child's dairy intake to the recommended amount can bring the intakes of dietary fiber, DHA, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, vitamin A, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₃, vitamin B₉, vitamin B₁₂, vitamin C and vitamin D more in line with the recommendations when compared with cow's milk.

Conclusion

Accurate nutrition information should be provided to the parents of preschool children so as to guide their scientific consumption of dairy products and the usage and addition of fortified dairy products can be encouraged as needed.

Effect of a Child-Owned Poultry Intervention Providing Eggs on Nutrition Status and Motor Skills of Young Children in Southern Ethiopia: A Cluster Randomized and Controlled Community Trial

Eggs are highly nutritious foods, yet intake by children in Ethiopia is low. We hypothesized that a nutrition-sensitive poultry intervention improves nutritional status of children 6-18 months using a 6-month cluster randomized controlled community trial. Intervention group (IG) children received a gift of two egg-laying hens in a ceremony where children's ownership of the chickens was declared by community leaders. Parents promised to add more hens and feed the owner-child one-egg-a-day. Trained community workers reinforced egg feeding, environmental sanitation and poultry husbandry. Control group (CG) mothers received usual nutrition education on child feeding. At baseline 29.6% of children were stunted, 19.4% underweight and 8.6% wasted. Egg consumption significantly increased only in IG, at 6 months. The intervention increased weight-for-age and weight-for-height z-scores by 0.38 (95% CI = 0.13-0.63) and 0.43 (95% CI = 0.21-0.64), respectively. Binary logit model indicated IG children were 54% (Odds ratio [OR] = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.26-0.84) and 42% (OR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.37-0.91) less likely to be underweight and stunted, respectively, compared to CG. IG children attained the milestone of running (p = 0.022; AHR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.05-1.95), kicking a ball (p = 0.027; AHR = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.04-1.87) and throwing a ball (p = 0.045; AHR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.01-1.86) earlier than CG. This nutrition-sensitive child-owned poultry approach should be implemented where animal-source food intake is low.

Paternal preconceptional diet enriched with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids affects offspring brain function in mice

Recent studies demonstrate that paternal nutrition prior to conception may determine offspring development and health through epigenetic modification. This study aims to investigate the effects of paternal supplementation of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) on the brain development and function, and associated gene imprinting in the offspring. Three to four-week-old male C57BL/6J mice (founder) were fed with an n-3 PUFA-deficient diet (n-3 D), and two n-3 PUFA supplementation diets – a normal n-3 PUFA content diet (n-3 N) and a high n-3 PUFA content diet (n-3 H) for 12 weeks. Then they were mated to 10-week-old virgin female C57BL/6J mice to generate the offspring. The results showed that paternal n-3 PUFA supplementation in preconception reduced the anxiety- and depressive-like behavior, and improved sociability, learning and memory in the offspring, along with increased synaptic number, upregulated expressions of neuron specific enolase, myelin basic protein, glial fibrillary acidic protein, brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, and altered expressions of genes associated with mitochondria biogenesis, fusion, fission and autophagy. Furthermore, with paternal n-3 PUFA supplementation, the expression of imprinted gene Snrpn was downregulated both in testes of the founder mice and their offspring, but upregulated in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, with altered DNA methylation in its differentially methylated region. The data suggest that higher paternal intake of n-3 PUFAs in preconception may help to maintain optimal brain development and function in the offspring, and further raise the possibility of paternal nutritional intervention for mental health issues in subsequent generations.

Infant exposure to trace elements in breast milk, infant formulas and complementary foods from southern China

Excessive intake of essential trace elements or exposure to potentially toxic elements above certain thresholds may cause adverse health effects in humans. To date, there is scarce evidence concerning Chinese infant exposure to trace elements and the associated risks. In this study, we collected 61 breast milk, 54 infant formula and 90 complementary food samples from southern China to investigate the levels of cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). The concentrations of these elements in the breast milk samples ranged from under the limit of detection (<LOD)-0.65, <LOD-65.5, 107-1040, 6.17-27.9, 820-10,160, <LOD-2.96, <LOD-0.52, <LOD-230, and <LOD-19.1 μg/L, respectively. In infant formula samples, the concentrations of these elements ranged from 2.77 to 7.56, 27.5-205, 188-4321, 69.7-322, 40,793-84,405, 2.47-12.2, 0.15-3.57, <LOD-505 and 2.19-26.5 μg/kg, respectively, while the concentrations detected in complementary food samples ranged from <LOD-23.7, <LOD-224, <LOD-3705, <LOD-219, 15,335-100,905, <LOD-159, <LOD-66.6, <LOD-502 and <LOD-25.6 μg/kg, respectively. The results showed that the levels of Cr, Cu and Se in 14.8-55.6 % of the infant formula and complementary food samples were lower than the reference values set by Codex Alimentarius or Chinese National Standards, while the levels of Zn in commercial food samples exceeded the corresponding reference values in 9.3-27.8 % of cases; these results suggest a potential risk via the consumption of commercial infant foods. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that has comprehensively assessed whether exposure to trace elements via food intake poses potential health risks to Chinese infants.

Characteristics of gut microbiota of term small gestational age infants within 1 week and their relationship with neurodevelopment at 6 months

Introduction

Small for gestational age (SGA) infants are at a higher risk of neurodevelopmental delay than infants appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Previous studies have confirmed that gut microbiota in early life influences subsequent neurodevelopment. However, few studies have reported corresponding data in SGA populations.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the gut microbiota of term SGA infants and the associations between the gut microbiota in SGA infants and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 6 months of age.

Methods

Fecal samples were collected on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 from term SGA and AGA infants born between June 2020 and June 2021 at the Peking University First Hospital. 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid amplicon sequencing was used to analyze the fecal microbiota. We followed up for 6 months and used the Ages and Stages Questionnaires-3 (ASQ-3) to evaluate the neurodevelopmental outcomes among SGA infants.

Results

A total of 162 neonates were enrolled, with 41 SGA infants (25.3%) in the study group and 121 AGA infants (74.7%) in the control group. The gut microbial diversity in the SGA group was lower than that in the AGA group on days 1, 3, 5, and 7. Non-metric multidimensional scaling and analysis of similarities showed significant differences between the two groups. The SGA group had increased relative abundances of Ralstonia (3, 5, and 7 days) and Clostridium (3 and 7 days). The dominant microorganisms of the SGA group were Ralstonia on day 1, Escherichia_Shigella on days 3 and 7, and Clostridia on day 5. We found that the gut microbial diversity of SGA infants with poor communication scores was higher than that of SGA infants with good communication scores on day 3. Fine motor scores were negatively correlated with the relative abundance of Bacteroides_fragilis on day 1. A negative correlation was observed between gross motor scores and relative abundance of Clostridium_saccharobutylicum on day 7. Bacteroidota, Bacteroidia, Bacteroides, and Bacteroides_fragilis were the dominant microorganisms in the good communication score group on day 7. Communication scores were positively correlated with the relative abundance of Bacteroidota, Bacteroides, and Bacteroides_fragilis on day 7.

Conclusion

The gut microbial diversity of term SGA infants was significantly lower in the first week of life than that of term AGA infants. Certain pathogenic and conditional pathogenic bacteria, such as Escherichia_Shigella, Ralstonia and Clostridium increased or formed the dominant microbiota in SGA infants. Alpha diversity, Bacteroidota, Bacteroides, Bacteroides_fragilis, and Clostridium_saccharobutylicum found in SGA infants may be associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes at 6 months of age, indicating possible therapeutic targets for clinical intervention.

Milk polar lipids composition and functionality: a systematic review

Polar lipids including glycerophospholipids and sphingophospholipids are important nutrients and milk is a major source, particularly for infants. This systematic review describes the human and bovine milk polar lipid composition, structural organization, sources for formulation, and physiological functionality. A total of 2840 records were retrieved through Scopus, 378 were included. Bovine milk is a good source of polar lipids, where yield and composition are highly dependent on the choice of dairy streams and processing. In milk, polar lipids are organized in the milk fat globule membrane as a tri-layer encapsulating triglyceride. The overall polar lipid concentration in human milk is dependent on many factors including lactational stage and maternal diet. Here, reasonable ranges were determined where possible. Similar for bovine milk, where differences in milk lipid concentration proved the largest factor determining variation. The role of milk polar lipids in human health has been demonstrated in several areas and critical review indicated that brain, immune and effects on lipid metabolism are best substantiated areas. Moreover, insights related to the milk fat globule membrane structure-function relation as well as superior activity of milk derived polar lipid compared to plant-derived sources are emerging areas of interest regarding future research and food innovations.

Associations among prenatal and postnatal arsenic, lead, and cadmium exposures and motor development in 3-year-old children: a longitudinal birth cohort study in Taiwan

Prenatal and postnatal exposures to heavy metals have been suggested to interfere with neurodevelopment, but the neurotoxicity of lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) is still unclear. In this study, we aimed to assess the associations between the levels of As, Cd, and Pb and children's neurodevelopment. A total of 299 mother-infant pairs were recruited in this study and their meconium were collected. After three years, 53 children underwent the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (Bayley-III) examinations and provided hair and fingernail specimens. The levels of As, Cd, and Pb in the meconium, hair, and fingernail were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry; the median levels were the following: meconium, 42.7, 5.57, and 25.6 ng/g, respectively; hair, 0.19, 0.05, and 3.61 μg/g, respectively; and fingernail, 0.29, 0.04, and 0.84 μg/g, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, we found that the log-transformed levels of As in the hair samples was negatively associated with gross motor development (β =  - 0.032; 95% confidence interval: - 0.061 to - 0.004). We conclude that postnatal exposure to As is a crucial period for gross motor development in children, while the effects of Cd and Pb on neurodevelopment are less clear.

Modelling the neurodevelopmental pathogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders. Bioactive kynurenines and their analogues as neuroprotective agents-in celebration of 80th birthday of Professor Peter Riederer

Following introduction of the monoamine oxidase type B inhibitor selegiline for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD), discovery of the action mechanism of Alzheimer's disease-modifying agent memantine, the role of iron in PD, and the loss of electron transport chain complex I in PD, and development of the concept of clinical neuroprotection, Peter Riederer launched one of the most challenging research project neurodevelopmental aspects of neuropsychiatric disorders. The neurodevelopmental theory holds that a disruption of normal brain development in utero or during early life underlies the subsequent emergence of neuropsychiatric symptoms during later life. Indeed, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition and the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision categorize autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). More and more evidence, especially from preclinical studies, is revealing that neurodevelopmental pathology is not limited to the diagnostic class above, but also contributes to the development of other psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as PD and Huntington's disease. Preclinical animal research is taking a lead in understanding the pathomechanisms of NDDs, searching for novel targets, and developing new neuroprotective agents against NDDs. This narrative review discusses emerging evidence of the neurodevelopmental etiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, recent advances in modelling neurodevelopmental pathogenesis, potential strategies of clinical neuroprotection using novel kynurenine metabolites and analogues, and future research direction for NDDs.

Effects of a Formula with scGOS/lcFOS (9:1) and Glycomacropeptide (GMP) Supplementation on the Gut Microbiota of Very Preterm Infants

Microbial colonization of very preterm (VPT) infants is detrimentally affected by the complex interplay of physiological, dietary, medical, and environmental factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an infant formula containing the specific prebiotic mixture of scGOS/lcFOS (9:1) and glycomacropeptide (GMP) on the composition and function of VPT infants’ gut microbiota. Metagenomic analysis was performed on the gut microbiota of VPT infants sampled at four time points: 24 h before the trial and 7, 14, and 28 days after the trial. Functional profiling was aggregated into gut and brain modules (GBMs) and gut metabolic modules (GMMs) based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella aerogenes, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were dominant species in both the test group and the control group. After the 4-week intervention, the abundance of Bifidobacterium in the test group was significantly increased. We found two GBMs (quinolinic acid synthesis and kynurenine degradation) and four GMMs (glutamine degradation, glyoxylate bypass, dissimilatory nitrate reduction, and preparatory phase of glycolysis) were significantly enriched in the test group, respectively. The results of this study suggested that formula enriched with scGOS/lcFOS (9:1) and GPM is beneficial to the intestinal microecology of VPT infants.

Effect of a Fortified Dairy-Based Drink on Micronutrient Status, Growth, and Cognitive Development of Nigerian Toddlers- A Dose-Response Study

Malnutrition results in a high prevalence of stunting, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies. This study investigated the effect of a multi-nutrient fortified dairy-based drink on micronutrient status, growth, and cognitive development in malnourished [height-for-age z-score (HAZ) and/or weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) < -1 SD and >−3 SD] Nigerian toddlers (n = 184, 1–3 years). The product was provided in different daily amounts (200, 400, or 600 ml) for 6 months. At baseline and endline, venous blood and urine samples were collected to determine micronutrient status. Bodyweight, height, waist, and head circumference were measured, and corresponding Z-scores were calculated. The Bayley-III Screening Test was used to classify the cognitive development of the children. In a modified per-protocol (PP) population, the highest prevalence's of micronutrient deficiencies were found for vitamin A (35.5%) and selenium (17.9%). At endline, there were no significant improvements in iodine, zinc, vitamin B12, and folate status in any of the three groups. Regarding vitamin D status (25OHD), consumption of 600 and 400 ml resulted in an improved status as compared to baseline, and in a difference between the 600- and 200-ml groups. Consumption of 600 ml also increased vitamin A and selenium status as compared to baseline, but no differences were found between groups. Within the groups, WAZ, weight-for-height z-score (WHZ), and BMI-for-age z-score (BAZ) improved, but without differences between the groups. For HAZ, only the 600 ml group showed improvement within the group, but it was not different between groups. For the absolute weight, height, and head circumference only trends for differences between groups were indicated. Cognition results did not differ between the groups. Within groups, all showed a decline in the per cent of competent children for receptive language. To study the effects of a nutritional intervention on linear growth and cognition, a longer study duration might be necessary. Regarding the improvement of micronutrient status, 600 ml of fortified dairy-based drink seems most effective.

The Concept of Intrauterine Programming and the Development of the Neonatal Microbiome in the Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection

The process of intrauterine programming is related to the quality of the microbiome formed in the fetus and the newborn. The implementation of probiotics, prebiotics, and psychobiotics shows immunomodulatory potential towards the organism, especially the microbiome of the pregnant woman and her child. Nutrigenomics, based on the observation of pregnant women and the developing fetus, makes it possible to estimate the biological effects of active dietary components on gene expression or silencing. Nutritional intervention for pregnant women should consider the nutritional status of the patient, biological markers, and the potential impact of dietary intervention on fetal physiology. The use of a holistic model of nutrition allows for appropriately targeted and effective dietary prophylaxis that can impact the physical and mental health of both the mother and the newborn. This model targets the regulation of the immune response of the pregnant woman and the newborn, considering the clinical state of the microbiota and the pathomechanism of the nervous system. Current scientific reports indicate the protective properties of immunobiotics (probiotics) about the reduction of the frequency of infections and the severity of the course of COVID-19 disease. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that intrauterine programming influences the development of the microbiome for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on a review of research studies.

Epigenetic Effects of Healthy Foods and Lifestyle Habits from the Southern European Atlantic Diet Pattern: A Narrative Review

Recent scientific evidence has shown the importance of diet and lifestyle habits for the proper functioning of the human body. A balanced and healthy diet, physical activity, and psychological well-being have a direct beneficial effect on health and can have a crucial role in the development and prognosis of certain diseases. The Southern European Atlantic diet, also named the Atlantic diet, is a unique dietary pattern that occurs in regions that present higher life expectancy, suggesting that this specific dietary pattern is associated with positive health effects. In fact, it is enriched with nutrients of high biological value, which, together with its cooking methods, physical activity promotion, reduction in carbon footprint, and promoting of family meals, promote these positive effects on health. The latest scientific advances in the field of nutri-epigenetics have revealed that epigenetic markers associated with food or nutrients and environmental factors modulate gene expression and, therefore, are involved with both health and disease. Thus, in this review, we evaluated the main aspects that define the Southern European Atlantic diet and the potential epigenetic changes associated with them based on recent studies regarding the main components of these dietary patterns. In conclusion, based on the information existing in the literature, we postulate that the Southern European Atlantic diet could promote healthy aging by means of epigenetic mechanisms. This review highlights the necessity of performing longitudinal studies to demonstrate this proposal.

Production of Sustainable Proteins Through the Conversion of Insects to Proteins Using Beauveria bassiana Cultures

Various strategies are being suggested to solve the challenges in the food system, such as changing the source of nutrients, including the use of non-traditional food sources such as insects. Although insects are promoted as a cheap and sustainable source of protein, consumers are reluctant to eat them. The mycoproteins produced by fungi, on the other hand, are very well received and appreciated by consumers. Thus, in this work we have studied the use of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana (Ascomycota: Hypocreales) for the production of protein using insects as feed. B. bassiana was cultivated in culture medium containing entire insects from the species Eurysacca and Hypothenemus or single carbon sources such as glucose or laminarin from Laminaria digitata. The results showed that B. bassiana can produce up to 16-fold more biomass and 8-fold more protein when grown in insect-based medium than when grown in glucose. The results also indicated that the production of proteins continuously increased when B. bassiana was grown in medium containing insects, reaching its maximum at 9 days (up to 3 mg/mL). On the other hand, when cultivated in glucose-supplemented medium, the production of proteins was constantly low (~0.5 mg/mL). In conclusion, B. bassiana was a large biomass producer and exuded a large amount of protein when grown in medium containing insect powder, making it an ideal intermediate link between insects and protein. Furthermore, the proteins produced by fungi such as B. bassiana can be used in the food, health, and cosmetic industries.

Nutritional Supplementation Reduces Lesion Size and Neuroinflammation in a Sex-Dependent Manner in a Mouse Model of Perinatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury

Perinatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) is a major cause of neonatal brain injury, leading to long-term neurological impairments. Medical nutrition can be rapidly implemented in the clinic, making it a viable intervention to improve neurodevelopment after injury. The omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3), uridine monophosphate (UMP) and choline have previously been shown in rodents to synergistically enhance brain phospholipids, synaptic components and cognitive performance. The objective of this study was to test the efficacy of an experimental diet containing DHA, EPA, UMP, choline, iodide, zinc, and vitamin B12 in a mouse model of perinatal HI. Male and female C57Bl/6 mice received the experimental diet or an isocaloric control diet from birth. Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy was induced on postnatal day 9 by ligation of the right common carotid artery and systemic hypoxia. To assess the effects of the experimental diet on long-term motor and cognitive outcome, mice were subjected to a behavioral test battery. Lesion size, neuroinflammation, brain fatty acids and phospholipids were analyzed at 15 weeks after HI. The experimental diet reduced lesion size and neuroinflammation specifically in males. In both sexes, brain n-3 fatty acids were increased after receiving the experimental diet. The experimental diet also improved novel object recognition, but no significant effects on motor performance were observed. Current data indicates that early life nutritional supplementation with a combination of DHA, EPA, UMP, choline, iodide, zinc, and vitamin B12 may provide neuroprotection after perinatal HI.