Is Ultra-Processed Food Intake Associated with a Higher Risk of Glaucoma? A Prospective Cohort Study including 19,255 Participants from the SUN Project

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of ultra-processed food (UPF) intake with the incidence of glaucoma in a large sample of Spanish university graduates followed prospectively.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study using data from the SUN Project. A final sample of 19,225 participants (60.1% women) was included in this study, with a mean age of 38.2 years (standard deviation (SD) = 12.4). Participants were followed-up for a mean time of 12.9 years (SD = 5.4). Dietary intake was measured using a 136-item semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire. UPFs were defined based on the NOVA classification system. Glaucoma diagnosis was determined by asking the participants if they had ever been diagnosed with glaucoma by an ophthalmologist. This self-reported diagnosis of glaucoma has been previously validated.

RESULTS

After adjusting for several covariates, participants with the highest UPF consumption were at higher risk of glaucoma (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.83; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06 to 3.17) when compared to participants in the lowest category of UPF consumption. Regarding subgroup analyses, a significant multiplicative interaction was found for age (p = 0.004) and omega 3:6 ratio (p = 0.040). However, an association between UPF consumption and glaucoma was only found in older participants (aged ≥ 55 years), in men, in the most physically active group, in the group of non- or former smokers, in those with a lower omega 3:6 ratio, and in those with a lower energy intake. Regarding the contribution of each type of UPF group, UPF coming from sweets showed a significant risky effect (HR = 1.51; CI 95% 1.07 to 2.12).

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective cohort study shows that participants with a greater UPF consumption have a higher risk of developing glaucoma when compared to participants with a lower consumption. Our findings emphasize the relevance of monitoring and limiting the consumption of UPFs as a means of preventing glaucoma incidence.

[Achalasia cardiae causing megaesophagus: "From the beginnings to the resolution"]

Achalasia cardiae miatt az első oesophago-cardia myotomiát több mint száz évvel ezelőtt Ernst Heller német sebész végezte. Az achalasiás betegek a mai napig ettől a beavatkozástól várják panaszaik megszűnését. Az achalasia napjainkban is chronikus, progresszív betegség, aminek oki kezelését nem ismerjük, a gyógyítására, a panaszok enyhítésére gyógyszeres (calcium csatorna blokkolók stb.), endoscopos (botulinum toxin inj., ballonos tágítás, per oralis endoscopos myotomiát [POEM]) és sebészi (laparoscopos, thoracoscopos myotomia) kezeléseket váltakozó sikerrel alkalmazunk.A betegség progresszivitása miatt a betegek 5%-ánál a nyelésképtelenségig fokozódó dysphagia, megaoesophagus alakul ki, megoldására műtéti beavatkozás válik szükségessé. A működésképtelen nyelőcső eltávolítása és pótlása kiterjedt, nem elhanyagolható morbiditással és mortalitással járó beavatkozás. Közleményünkben egy 45 éves nőbeteg kórtörténetét, az általunk alkalmazott műtéti beavatkozást ismertetjük. A beteg a műtét óta panaszmentes.

[Treatment of recurrent incarcerated Bochdalek hernia in an adult]

Az igen ritka felnőttkori nem hiatális, azaz nem paraoesophagealis típusú transdiaphragmaticus sérveket - a veleszületett rekeszizom defektusok mintájára - általánosan Bochdalek, ill. Larey-Morgagni-sérveknek nevezik. Etiológia tekintetében a nem diagnosztizált és kezelt veleszületett eredet, a traumás kontúziós-szakadásos, az iatrogen, ill. a recidív típus említendő meg.Esetismertetésünkben egy felnőttkori recidív, kizáródott Bochdalek-sérv sikeres műtéti ellátását ismertetjük. A 23 éves férfi beteg kórelőzményében 11 éves korában bal oldali Bochdalek-sérv miatt végzett thoracoscopos rekeszizom sutura szerepel. Epigastrialis fájdalmak, hányinger, hányás, akut hasi megbetegedés klinikai tünetei miatt jelentkezett Intézetünkben. Az elvégzett sürgős mellkasi és hasi CT-vizsgálat a bal mellüregben elhelyezkedő, kizáródott, vékonybélkacsokat tartalmazó Bochdalek-sérvet igazolt. Sürgős laparotomia során az életképesnek bizonyult sérvtartalmat (a vékonybéltraktus 2/3 része, a colon flexura lienalisa és a pancreas farok) a hasüregbe reponáltuk, a sérvkaput direkt suturával zártuk, és szövetszeparáló sebészi hálóval fedtük, valamint a mellüreget draináltuk. A postoperatív szak eseménytelenül zajlott. Kontroll-CT-vizsgálat a reconstruált rekeszizom és pleuro-peritonealis rétegek folytonosságát mutatta. A 10. posztoperatív napon panaszmentesen bocsátottuk otthonába.Megbeszélés: Mint minden kizáródott sérv esetében, a diagnózis mihamarabbi felállítása és az időben elvégzett műtét kulcsfontosságú. A mellkasi drenázs szükségességét minden esetnél körültekintően mérlegelni kell. A műtét után a mell- és hasüregben kialakult új anatómiai viszonyok miatt cardialis és respiratoricus szövődmények alakulhatnak ki. Álláspontunk szerint a betegség ritkasága miatt centrumban kezelendő. Ezen ritka állapot sikeres gyógyítása többszakmás együttműködésen alapul, melynek meghatározó eleme a helyesen megválasztott rekeszi felszínt helyreállító műtéti technika alkalmazása.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the MADS gene family in sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) infested with pathogenic bacteria

The risk of pathogenic bacterial invasion in plantations has increased dramatically due to high environmental climate change and has seriously affected sweet orange fruit quality. MADS genes allow plants to develop increased resistance, but functional genes for resistance associated with pathogen invasion have rarely been reported. MADS gene expression profiles were analyzed in sweet orange leaves and fruits infested with Lecanicillium psalliotae and Penicillium digitatum, respectively. Eighty-two MADS genes were identified from the sweet orange genome, and they were classified into five prime subfamilies concerning the Arabidopsis MADS gene family, of which the MIKC subfamily could be subdivided into 13 minor subfamilies. Protein structure analysis showed that more than 93% of the MADS protein sequences of the same subfamily between sweet orange and Arabidopsis were very similar in tertiary structure, with only CsMADS8 and AG showing significant differences. The variability of MADS genes protein structures between sweet orange and Arabidopsis subgroups was less than the variabilities of protein structures within species. Chromosomal localization and covariance analysis showed that these genes were unevenly distributed on nine chromosomes, with the most genes on chromosome 9 and the least on chromosome 2, with 36 and two, respectively. Four pairs of tandem and 28 fragmented duplicated genes in the 82 MADS gene sequences were found in sweet oranges. GO (Gene Ontology) functional enrichment and expression pattern analysis showed that the functional gene CsMADS46 was strongly downregulated of sweet orange in response to biotic stress adversity. It is also the first report that plants' MADS genes are involved in the biotic stress responses of sweet oranges. For the first time, L. psalliotae was experimentally confirmed to be the causal agent of sweet orange leaf spot disease, which provides a reference for the research and control of pathogenic L. psalliotae.

Exploiting DNA methylation in cassava under water deficit for crop improvement

DNA methylation plays a key role in the development and plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This work aimed to evaluate the DNA methylation in contrasting cassava genotypes for water deficit tolerance. The varieties BRS Formosa (bitter) and BRS Dourada (sweet) were grown under greenhouse conditions for 50 days, and afterwards, irrigation was suspended. The stressed (water deficit) and non-stressed plants (negative control) consisted the treatments with five plants per variety. The DNA samples of each variety and treatment provided 12 MethylRAD-Seq libraries (two cassava varieties, two treatments, and three replicates). The sequenced data revealed methylated sites covering 18 to 21% of the Manihot esculenta Crantz genome, depending on the variety and the treatment. The CCGG methylated sites mapped mostly in intergenic regions, exons, and introns, while the CCNGG sites mapped mostly intergenic, upstream, introns, and exons regions. In both cases, methylated sites in UTRs were less detected. The differentially methylated sites analysis indicated distinct methylation profiles since only 12% of the sites (CCGG and CCNGG) were methylated in both varieties. Enriched gene ontology terms highlighted the immediate response of the bitter variety to stress, while the sweet variety appears to suffer more potential stress-damages. The predicted protein-protein interaction networks reinforced such profiles. Additionally, the genomes of the BRS varieties uncovered SNPs/INDELs events covering genes stood out by the interactomes. Our data can be useful in deciphering the roles of DNA methylation in cassava drought-tolerance responses and adaptation to abiotic stresses.

Olfactory training in normosmic individuals: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Even if olfactory training (OT) is a well-established treatment for individuals with olfactory dysfunction, the effect on individuals with normosmia remains uncertain. In this randomised controlled trial, we explore how OT with different exposure lengths affect olfactory function in individuals with normosmia.

METHODOLOGY

Two hundred normosmic individuals were randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups performing OT with different exposure lengths or to a control group. The OT groups did OT twice daily for three months, g four different odours (eucalyptus, lavender, mint, and lemon) for 10 seconds per bottle during either a total of 40 seconds (standard OT) or 4 minutes (extended OT), while the control group did not perform any OT. Olfactory function was assessed using a 48-item Sniffin Sticks test at baseline, after the intervention, and after one year.

RESULTS

We found no significant effect of OT in either of the intervention groups on any aspect of olfaction after intervention or at follow-up. There was no association between sex, age, allergic rhinitis, education or olfactory scores at baseline, and changes in olfactory function after OT. The extended OT group performed significantly fewer training sessions compared to those in the standard OT group.

CONCLUSIONS

OT had a limited effect on olfactory function in individuals with normosmia. Further, the superiority of a more extended OT is not supported by this study, and shorter training sessions seem to improve compliance with OT.

Metabolism and release of characteristic components and their enzymatic mechanisms in Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae co-fermentation

A co-fermentation strategy was explored to rapidly improve the characteristic components and quality of Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae (PCR) using Monascus anka and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and the enzymatic mechanism was investigated. The results showed that the free flavonoid content of fermented PCR was 48.12% higher than that of unfermented PCR after 12 days of co-fermentation, resulting in stronger antioxidant activity. d-Limonene, γ-terpinene, proline (Pro), arginine (Arg), and serine (Ser) contributed the most to the flavors of citrus, herb, and sweet citrus based on odor and taste activity value analysis. Metabolomics and multivariate statistics showed that 55 components were differentially metabolized during co-fermentation, and ten metabolic pathways were closely related to metabolism. Furthermore, five hydrolases participated in the release and conversion of the active ingredients. This study provides an effective processing method for PCR and is conducive to the development of new PCR functional health foods.

Aroma characteristics of flaxseed milk via GC-MS-O and odor activity value calculation: Imparts and selection of different flaxseed varieties

Currently, the effect of varieties on the flavor and stability of flaxseed milk remains unknown. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of different varieties on the stability, sensory, and aromas of flaxseed milk. 51 volatile compounds were identified in flaxseed milk using Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction-Gas Chromatography-Olfactometry-Mass Spectrometry (SBSE-GC-O-MS). Among them, 1-octen-3-ol, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, and 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine contributed higher relative odor active values (ROAV), resulted in the fruity, roasted, sweet, and cucumber in flaxseed milk. Isovaleraldehyde (green notes) was not detected in XHZM. However, other compounds such as 1-nonanol (floral), γ-nonanolactone and γ-octanoic lactone (coconut milk) had higher concentrations, causing a better sensory evaluation. Additionally, its stability was relatively good. The orthogonal partial least-squares regression (OPLS) model and VIP values showed that eight compounds were responsible for the sensory differences from different varietals. The study provided references to selection and understanding flavor composition basis of flaxseed milk.

Understanding the dynamic changes of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in black tea during processing by integrated volatolomics and UHPLC-HRMS analysis

Processing technology has an important effect on the flavor quality of black tea. However, the dynamic changes of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in black tea during processing are poorly understood. In this study, the volatile and non-volatile compounds during black tea processing were comprehensively characterized by integrated volatolomics and UHPLC-Q-Exactive/MS analysis. Volatile and non-volatile metabolites changed continuously throughout the processing process, especially during the withering stage. A total of 178 volatile metabolites and 103 non-volatile metabolites were identified. Among them, 11 volatile components with relative odor activity value greater than 1 (including dimethyl sulfide, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylbutanal, β-myrcene, β-ocimene, linalool, methyl salicylate, β-cyclocitral, β-citral, citral, and β-ionone) were regarded as key aroma-active components responsible for finished black tea with sweet aroma. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of dynamic evolution trajectory of volatile and non-volatile metabolites during processing, which lays a theoretical foundation for the targeted processing of high-quality black tea.

Assesing the behaviour of particulate/nanoparticulate form of E171 (TiO2) food additive in colored chocolate candies before and after in vitro oral ingestion by spICP-MS, TEM and cellular in vitro models

Potential risk of nanoparticles present in food additives should be assessed. Although food-grade additive E171 (TiO2) has been banned by European Union due to the potential occurrence of nanometric TiO2, it is still present in stock products and permitted in other countries. TiO2 (nano)particles from the outer coating of colored chocolate candies were determined by TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) and spICP-MS (Single-Particle-ICP-MS). Total titanium content was in the range of 1219 ± 83 µg g-1, except for brown and white candies. Percentage of TiO2 particles bellow 100 nm was under 25% regardless the color, with most frequent size between 120 and 160 nm. In vitro gastrointestinal assays reveal differences in bioaccessibility percentages between whole candy (14%) or aqueous extracts of the coating of candy (37%). More than 90% of bioaccessible titanium was found in particulate form. Caco-2 cells viability decreased around 65% after 24 h exposed to intestinal fraction.

From Waste to Value: Recent Insights into Producing Vanillin from Lignin

Vanillin, one of the most widely used and appreciated flavoring agents worldwide, is the main constituent of vanilla bean extract, obtained from the seed pods of various members belonging to the Orchidaceae family. Due to the great demand in the food confectionery industry, as well as in the perfume industry, medicine, and more, the majority of vanillin used today is produced synthetically, and only less than one percent of the world's vanilla flavoring market comes directly from the traditional natural sources. The increasing global demand for vanillin requires alternative and overall sustainable new production methods, and the recovery from biobased polymers, like lignin, is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical synthesis. The present review provides firstly an overview of the different types of vanillin, followed by a description of the main differences between natural and synthetic vanillin, their preparation, the market of interest, and the authentication issues and the related analytical techniques. Then, the review explores the real potentialities of lignin for vanillin production, presenting firstly the well-assessed classical methods and moving towards the most recent promising approaches through chemical, biotechnological and photocatalytic methodologies, together with the challenges and the principal issues associated with each technique.

Effect of peach gum polysaccharide on the rheological and 3D printing properties of gelatin-based functional gummy candy

Excellent 3D printing materials must exhibit good extrudability and supportability, but these two characteristics are often contradictory. In this study, peach gum polysaccharide (PGP) was added to gelatin to prepare a 3D-printed functional gummy candy encapsulating curcumin. Rheology tests indicated that adding PGP could effectively improve the apparent viscosity and thermal stability and consequently improve the 3D printability and supportability of the products. When PGP addition was 6 %, the printing accuracy was higher than 90 %. Texture and microstructure analysis further revealed that PGP addition promoting a dense gel structure formed and the water holding capacity and supportability of gel materials were enhanced. Furthermore, the in vitro gastrointestinal digestion tests showed that after 6 h of simulated gastrointestinal fluid digestion, the retention rate of curcumin was nearly 80 %. The above results indicated that the composite gel of PGP and gelatin is a good 3D printing base material for nutrient delivery.

[Awaiting completion: Definitions missing in action]

Bevezetés

Egy, a sebészetben alkalmazott leggyakoribb fogalmaknak szentelt cikksorozat bevezető tanulmánya ez. A látszólag egyértelmű definíciók vizsgálatakor kiderül, hogy vagy egyáltalán nem is léteznek, annyira maguktól értetődők (pseudoaxiomák), vagy olyan sok van belőlük, hogy nincs igazi. A javasolt definíciók munkapéldányok, további javításra várnak. Az első két javaslatot tesszük közzé: a sebészet és a kompetencia kérdésében.

A sebészet fogalma

A sebészet a medicina azon válfaja, melynek megkülönböztető tulajdonsága, hogy szövetegyüttesi szintű sértés révén, azaz a testet alkotó strukturális elemeket eltávolító/átalakító módokat alkalmaz célja elérésében: a kórismézésben és a kezelés nyújtásában.

A sebészi kompetencia fogalma

A sebészeti kompetencia az állam mint közhatalom által hitelesített bizonyított cselekvőkész tudásösszesség birtoklása, kerete a szakvizsga.

Konklúzió

A tiszta, egyértelmű definíciók hiánya akadályozza a tudományos és szakmai diskurzust. Megalkotásuk, elfogadásuk közmegegyezés kérdése. További kísérletek következnek.

Aortabillentyű-beültetés antifoszfolipid szindrómában

Esetismertetés

Egy 44 éves férfi betegnél endokarditisz talaján kialakult súlyos aortabillentyű-elégtelenség tett szükségessé szívsebészeti beavatkozást. A kevesebb mint egy év alatt bekövetkezett többszöri trombotikus esemény felvetette antifoszfolipid szindróma lehetőségét. A lupus antikoaguláns pozitivitás és az említett klinikai kép ezt igazolta.

Megbeszélés

Betegünk fiatal életkora és a biológiai műbillentyű korlátozott élettartama ellenére biológiai műbillentyű beültetése mellett döntöttünk. Választásunkat azzal indokoljuk, hogy tanulmányok bizonyítják antifoszfolipid szindrómás betegeknél a mechanikus műbillentyűvel összefüggésbe hozható thromboembolia viszonylag gyakori előfordulását. A műtétet szövődménymentesen elvégeztük, aktivált parciális thromboplastin idővel kontrollált Na-heparin korai adása mellett állítottuk be az orális antikoaguláns terápiát 3,0 INR célértékkel a műtét utáni ötödik napra. A műtét során eltávolított billentyűből korokozó nem tenyészett ki. A kórszövettani vizsgálat abakteriális endokarditiszt véleményezett, nem kizárva a korábbi fertőzést. Biológiai műbillentyű implantáció után három hónapig ajánlott aszpirin vagy K-vitamin antagonista adása, betegünk esetében viszont élethosszig tartó antikoaguláns kezelés szükséges, tekintettel rendszerbetegségére.

Következtetés

Halmozódó tromboembóliás események kapcsán gondolni kell antifoszfolipid szindrómára, mely igazolása adott esetben meghatározhatja a választható műbillentyű fajtáját. Az ajánlások legtöbbször csak általánosságban fedik le a ritka társbetegségeket, ezért a kapcsolódó szakirodalom áttekintése is szükséges az optimális, betegre szabott döntéshez.

Application of Cyclocarya paliurus-Kiwifruit Composite Fermented to Enhance Antioxidant Capacity, Flavor, and Sensory Characteristics of Kiwi Wine

A new fermentation method for kiwi wine was explored by developing the well-known medicinal and edible plant Cyclocarya paliurus (C. paliurus) to create more value with undersized kiwifruits. In this study, the changes in bioactive substances during the C. paliurus-kiwi winemaking process were analyzed on the basis of response surface optimization results, and the antioxidant capacity, aromatic compounds, and sensory quality of the C. paliurus-kiwi composite wine with kiwi wine and two commercial kiwi wines were compared. The results showed that DPPH radical, OH- radical, and ABTS+ scavenging rates remained at over 60.0%, 90.0%, and 70.0% in C. paliurus-kiwi wine, respectively. The total flavonoid content (TFC) and total polyphenol content (TPC) of C. paliurus-kiwi wine were significantly higher than those of the other three kiwi wines. C. paliurus-kiwi wine received the highest score and detected 43 volatile compounds. Ethyl hexanoate, which showed stronger fruity and sweet aromas, was one of the main aroma components of C. paliurus-kiwi wine and different from commercial wines. This wine has a good flavor with a natural and quality feeling of C. paliurus-kiwifruit extract, low-cost processing, and great market potential.

Pulped natural/honey robusta coffee fermentation metabolites, physico-chemical and sensory profiles

The pulped natural/honey coffee (HC) of Coffea canephora (Robusta) is an innovative modified semi-dry technique. Studies have focused on HC and washed coffee (WC) fermentation, microbial metabolites, quality of green and roasted, using 1H NMR, GC-MS, and sensory investigation. Pipecolate and 3-hydroxy-3-methyglutarate have been identified for the first time. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) variability of the roasted beans, with PC 1 depicting 87.4 % and 12.6 % PC 2 respectively highlights the impact of major sugars and secondary metabolites acquired through HC. The HC fermentation (192 h) influenced carbohydrates, organic acids, and secondary metabolites besides flavor precursors compared to WC (72 h). Although HC and WC beans share similar physical qualities, enhanced volatile compounds, enriched concentration, organoleptics with pleasant, sweet, tea rose and chocolaty flavors attributes were embodied in HC than WC. The pulped natural post-harvest technique in robusta is a value addition with quality that can fetch a better premium.

Medication rule of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of plateau hypoxia based on data mining

OBJECTIVES

The development of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the plateau area is relatively backward. There is a lack of system to analyze the effects of the special environment of plateau low pressure and hypoxia on human meridians qi and blood, as well as the etiology and pathogenesis of plateau hypoxic diseases. To analyze the composition rules of anti-hypoxia TCM formulation with data mining methods.

METHODS

The experimental literatures related to high altitude hypoxia were searched in China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Med Online, VIP, China Biology Medicine disc and other databases, a standardized prescription database was established after screening and standardization of prescription data in the literature. The composition rules of these prescription including drug frequency, drug attributes, drug efficacy, drug combination, and core prescription were analyzed and displayed with visual charts.

RESULTS

A total of 135 TCM prescriptions were included, and 229 flavored drugs were included. Among these prescriptions, the TCM with high frequency of use were Astragalus, Danshen, Ginseng, and Angelica, etc. Four natures of the TCM were mostly warm and calm. Five flavours of the TCM were mostly sweet, bitter, and pungent. And channel tropism of the TCM mostly entered the heart, lung, and liver meridians. The frequency combination of TCM was Astragalus-Danshen and Astragalus-Angelica. The core medicines of these prescriptions were Astragalus, Danshen, Angelica, Rhodiola, Goji, and Ginseng. TCM could alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, coughing and wheezing, coughing, vomiting, fatigue, and loss of appetite caused by hypoxia at high altitude.

CONCLUSIONS

Through data mining, it is concluded that the prevention or treatment of plateau hypoxic diseases mostly utilized products can nourish blood, replenish qi and dispel stasis, and help yang and dispel qi, most of them are compatible with qi tonic drugs and blood circulation and stasis dissolving drugs, and pay attention to the combination of virtual and real, yin and yang.

A flexible and wearable three-electrode electrochemical sensing system consisting of a two-in-one enzyme-mimic working electrode

In this work, a wearable and flexible three-electrode electrochemical sensing system (TESS) by using a two-in-one enzyme-mimic working electrode (TIOWE) is reported. The integrated three-electrode, including working electrodes, reference electrodes, and counter electrodes are formed by transfer printing of Ni2P-based composite electrode ink (Ni2P/G ink), Ag/AgCl ink, and carbon ink onto PDMS substrate, respectively. The Ni2P/G ink-based working electrodes have both good conductivity and enzyme-mimic catalytic activity towards glucose. Under optimized conditions, the TIOWE-TESS has a low detection limit of 0.37 μM and wide linear ranges of 0.001 mM-0.1 mM and 0.1 mM-1.4 mM. Furthermore, the TIOWE-TESS has good applicability in serum samples and reveals remarkable electrochemical performance at fluctuant working temperatures. The proposed TIOWE-TESS can be integrated on a waterproof bandage to fabricate a skin-friendly patch device for sweet glucose monitoring, which highlights its potential applications in flexible and wearable commercial devices for health-monitoring.

Characteristic fingerprints and comparison of volatile flavor compounds in Morchella sextelata under different drying methods

Morchella sextelata is a precious and popular commercial edible fungus that was developed recently in China. This research aimed to characterize the volatile profiles of M. sextelata under three dehydration methods (freeze, hot air, and natural air drying). Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-ToF-MS) was shown to the best choice to discriminate the volatile profiles of M. sextelata Characteristic flavor substances of M. sextelata were eight-carbon-containing (C8) compounds, hexanal, 2(5 h)-furanone, and benzaldehyde. Drying methods had significant influences on the volatile flavor profiles of M. sextelata, and 104 differential compounds were screened by multivariate statistical analysis. Freeze-dried samples had the most abundant volatile compounds and maintained more alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, and esters described as mushroom, sweet, and green flavor, like 1-octen-3-ol, 1-octen-3-one, nonanal, 2,3-butanedione, and so on. Hot air-drying promoted the production of heterocycles and ketones with roasted flavor due to the thermalreaction, such as 2-cyclohexen-1-one, furan, 3-phenyl-, etc. Natural air-drying resulted in acids releasing an unpleasant flavor, e.g., acetic acid, 2-methylbutanoic acid, etc. Overall, thermal reaction combined with vacuum conditions might be suitable for maintaining and enriching the aroma flavor of dried true morels.

Synergy Effect between Fruity Esters and Potential Odorants on the Aroma of Hutai-8 Rose Wine Revealed by Threshold, S-Curve, and σ-τ Plot Methods

To analyze the contribution of fruity esters on wine aroma perception, the interaction levels between 12 esters and key odorants of Hutai-8 rose wine were investigated using threshold, S-curve, and σ-τ plot methods, and the aroma enhancement performance of esters was verified by using addition experiments. Results indicated that esters enhance the sweet, floral, and fruity traits of citronellol, β-damascenone, and nerolidol, especially at subthreshold levels. Meanwhile, esters increased the floral and fruity characteristics of key fermentative odorants mainly by additive effects, with acetate esters possessing a better synergy ability. In contrast, the synergy levels between binary esters were less influenced by the concentration but more by the compound structure and aroma. Additionally, moderately subjoining the type and content of esters in wine proved that their synergy effects improved the sweet trait and decreased the sour fruit trait. This finding characterized that the contribution of esters to the wine aroma was obtained by the combined synergy of odorants at a suitable concentration.

Age-Related Dietary Habits and Blood Biochemical Parameters in Patients with and without Steatosis-MICOL Cohort

BACKGROUND

Steatosis is now the most common liver disease in the world, present in approximately 25% of the global population. The aim of this study was to study the association between food intake and liver disease and evaluate the differences in blood parameters in age classes and steatosic condition.

METHODS

The present study included 1483 participants assessed in the fourth recall of the MICOL study. Patients were subdivided by age (65 years) and administered a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) with 28 food groups.

RESULTS

The prevalence of steatosis was 55.92% in the adult group and 55.88% in the elderly group. Overall, the results indicated many statistically significant blood parameters and dietary habits. Analysis of food choices with a machine learning algorithm revealed that in the adult group, olive oil, grains, processed meat, and sweets were associated with steatosis, while the elderly group preferred red meat, dairy, seafood, and fruiting vegetables. Furthermore, the latter ate less as compared with the adult group.

CONCLUSIONS

Many differences were found between the two age groups, both in blood parameters and food intake. The random forest also revealed different foods predicted steatosis in the two groups. Future analysis will be useful to understand the molecular basis of these differences and how different food intake causes steatosis in people of different ages.

The sweet spot study-Developing e-liquid product standards for nicotine form and concentration to improve public health: Protocol for a randomized, double-blinded, crossover study

OBJECTIVES

E-cigarettes pose significant risks to youth, but smokers may benefit from switching to e-cigarettes by reducing their exposure to toxicants, which creates a challenge for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in regulating e-cigarettes to protect population health. This study aims to develop e-liquid product standards for nicotine form and concentration that reduce the appeal of e-cigarettes to young people while keeping e-cigarettes available as a safer alternative for smokers.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

A single-visit, double-blinded, randomized crossover design will be used to examine the effects of e-liquids with varying fractions of free-base nicotine (5%, 25%, 45%, 65%, 85%) among a sample of 66 young adult EC users and 66 older adult smokers, across ecologically valid total nicotine concentrations (20 mg or 50 mg/mL).

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

A 2-puff session will be conducted to test each of the 10 e-liquids in randomly assigned sequences, followed by a 10-minute washout period and participant ratings on appeal and sensory attributes such as throat hit and harshness, as well as behavioral intentions for continued use. Generalized linear mixed models will be used to determine a free-base nicotine level that has limited or no appeal to young adult e-cigarette users while remaining acceptable to smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide the FDA with scientific evidence regarding the effect of product standards that mandate a minimum threshold for the fraction of free-base nicotine.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov under the identifier NCT05864586.

Liquorice Toxicity: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Renowned since ancient times for its medical properties, liquorice is nowadays mainly used for flavoring candies or soft drinks. Continuous intake of large amounts of liquorice is a widely known cause of pseudo-hyperaldosteronism leading to hypertension and hypokalemia. These manifestations are usually mild, although in some cases may generate life-threatening complications, i.e., arrhythmias, muscle paralysis, rhabdomyolysis, and coma. In addition, liquorice has an important estrogenic-like activity.

METHODS

We summarized the current knowledge about liquorice and reviewed 104 case reports in both the English and Italian languages from inception to June 2023 concerning complications due to an excess of liquorice intake.

RESULTS

In contrast to most published data, female sex and old age do not appear to be risk factors. However, hypertension and electrolyte imbalance (mainly hypokalemia) are prevalent features. The detection of glycyrrhetinic acid in blood is very uncommon, and the diagnosis is essentially based on an accurate history taking.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there is not a significant mortality rate, liquorice toxicity often requires hospitalization and therefore represents a significant health concern. Major pharmaceutical drug regulatory authorities should solicit public awareness about the potentially dangerous effects caused by excessive use of liquorice.

Different methods for textural evaluation of freeze-dried candies during storage

The textural changes during storage of two freeze-dried candies developed from blackcurrant fruits, unflavored yogurt, and different alternative sweeteners, one sweetened with honey/isomalt (HI) and another sweetened with isomalt/stevia (IS), were analyzed using three different methods (instrumental, sensory, and image analysis). Fresh candies were in the supercooled state and presented different structural and textural characteristics (HI: compact and homogeneous, and IS: porous and crunchy), with Fmax values of 139 ± 14 and 174 ± 16 N for HI and IS, respectively. After storage, the instrumental analysis showed approximately 60% average drop in Fmax and W values, in agreement with the decrease observed by sensory analysis in hardness, fracturability, and crispness. Image analysis showed an increase in parameters related to the homogeneity and the uniformity/smoothness for HI. Pearson's correlation coefficients analysis showed that there was a good correlation between the three techniques used, suggesting that the joint use of these methods could be performed for a better understanding of complex food texture.

Antiviral Effect of Candies Containing Persimmon-Derived Tannin against SARS-CoV-2 Delta Strain

Inactivation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the mouth has the potential to reduce the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), due to the virus being readily transmitted by dispersed saliva. Persimmon-derived tannin has strong antioxidant and antimicrobial activity owing to its strong adhesion to proteins, and it also exhibited antiviral effects against non-variant and Alpha-variant SARS-CoV-2 in our previous study. In this study, we first demonstrated the antiviral effects of persimmon-derived tannin against the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro via the plaque assay method. We then examined the effects of candy containing persimmon-derived tannin. Remarkably, the saliva samples provided by healthy volunteers while they were eating tannin-containing candy showed that the virus titers of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant were suppressed. In addition, we found that the SARS-CoV-2 viral load in saliva from patients with COVID-19 collected immediately after they had eaten the tannin-containing candy was below the level of detection via PCR for SARS-CoV-2. These data suggest that adding persimmon-derived tannin to candy and holding such candy in the mouth is an effective method for inactivating SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, and the application of this approach shows potential for inhibiting the transmission of COVID-19.

Laboratory evaluation of anti-plaque and remineralization efficacy of sugarless probiotic jelly candy supplemented with natural nano prebiotic additive

We evaluated the anti-cariogenic effect of an experimental synbiotic compound containing probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (NRRL B-442)-based jelly candy supplemented with natural prebiotic grape seed extract (GSE) in a nanoemulsion formula on the colonization and establishment of Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 25175) and Actinomyces viscosus (ATTCC 19246) biofilms through counting colony forming units, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We were then analysing the remineralizing effect of synbiotic jelly candy on human enamel surface lesions using Vickers microhardness testers, atomic force microscopy (AFM), SEM, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) at three stages (sound, after demineralization, and after pH cycling). We found after 21 days of treatment of the pH-cycled enamel discs with jelly candy for 10 min twice daily, a 68% decrease in S. mutans colony formation, reducing biofilm development, trapping S. mutans visualized in jelly candy under SEM examination, and significantly altering the morphological structure of these bacteria under TEM analysis. For remineralization measurements, statistically significant differences in microhardness integrated mineral loss, and lesion depth through CLSM between demineralization and treatment stages. These findings provide an effective anti-cariogenic synbiotic compound of grape seed extract and probiotic jelly candy with potential remineralizing activity.

The impact of price promotions on confectionery and snacks on the energy content of shopping baskets: A randomised controlled trial in an experimental online supermarket

Overconsumption of foods high in fat, sugars, and salt (HFSS) poses a significant risk to health. The government in England has passed legislation that would limit some price promotions of HFSS foods within supermarkets, but evidence regarding likely impacts of these policies, especially in online settings, is limited. This study aimed to determine whether there were any differences in the energy and nutrient content of shopping baskets after removing promotions on HFSS foods in an online experimental supermarket. UK adults (n = 511) were asked to select food from four categories with a £10 budget in an online experimental supermarket: confectionery; biscuits and crackers; crisps, nuts and snacking fruit; cakes and tarts. They were randomly allocated to one of two trial arms: (1) promotions present (matched to promotion frequency seen in a major UK retailer) (n = 257), or (2) all promotions removed from all products within the target food categories (n = 254). The primary outcome analysis used linear regression to compare total energy (kcal) of items placed in shopping baskets when promotions were present vs. absent, while secondary analyses investigated differences in nutrients and energy purchased from individual food categories. Mean energy in food selected without promotions was 5156 kcal per basket (SD 1620), compared to 5536 kcal (SD 1819) with promotions, a difference of -552kcal (95%CIs: -866, -238), equivalent to 10%. There were no significant differences in energy purchased for any individual category between groups. No evidence was found of other changes in nutritional composition of baskets or of significant interactions between the impact of promotions and participant characteristics (gender, age, ethnicity) on energy purchased. Removing promotions on HFSS foods resulted in significantly less total energy selected in an online experimental supermarket study.

Presence of flavoured electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products in US ENDS advertisements, 2015-2020: a content analysis

OBJECTIVES

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) products come in a variety of flavours (eg, fruit, dessert, menthol). Tobacco advertising has historically used flavours as an advertising tactic, but little is known about flavour type and prevalence in ENDS advertisements. We assess the presence of flavoured ENDS in ads over time, by media outlet (eg, magazines, online) and brand.

METHODS

We acquired ENDS ads (N=4546) that first ran between 2015-2017 (n=1685; study 1) and 2018-2020 (n=2861; study 2) in outlets including opt-in emails, direct-to-consumer mail (study 1 only), video (TV and online), radio (study 2 only), static online/mobile (ie, ads without video or moving graphics), social media, outdoor (eg, billboards; study 2 only) and consumer magazines. We coded for presence of flavoured ENDS products and flavour type (eg, fruit, tobacco, menthol) and merged this information with metadata on ad year, outlet and manufacturer/retailer brand.

RESULTS

Overall, nearly half (45.5%; n=2067) of ads in our sample featured a flavoured product. Tobacco (59.1%; n=1221), menthol (42.9%; n=887) and fruit (38.6%; n=797) were the most advertised flavours. Over time, the proportion of ads containing tobacco-flavoured and menthol-flavoured ENDS generally decreased before menthol rebounded in 2020. The proportion of ads containing fruit, mint and dessert flavours generally increased over time, with a substantive drop in 2020. We found notable differences in flavoured ENDS advertising by outlet and brand.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall presence of flavoured ENDS in our sample of ads remained relatively consistent, with tobacco flavour decreasing over time and some non-tobacco flavours increasing over time until 2020 when the presence decreased.

Non-Conventional Time Domain (TD)-NMR Approaches for Food Quality: Case of Gelatin-Based Candies as a Model Food

The TD-NMR technique mostly involves the use of T1 (spin-lattice) and T2 (spin-spin) relaxation times to explain the changes occurring in food systems. However, these relaxation times are affected by many factors and might not always be the best indicators to work with in food-related TD-NMR studies. In this study, the non-conventional TD-NMR approaches of Solid Echo (SE)/Magic Sandwich Echo (MSE) and Spin Diffusion in food systems were used for the first time. Soft confectionary gelatin gels were formulated and conventional (T1) and non-conventional (SE, MSE and Spin Diffusion) TD-NMR experiments were performed. Corn syrups with different glucose/fructose compositions were used to prepare the soft candies. Hardness, °Brix (°Bx), and water activity (aw) measurements were also conducted complementary to NMR experiments. Relaxation times changed (p < 0.05) with respect to syrup type with no obvious trend. SE/MSE experiments were performed to calculate the crystallinity of the samples. Samples prepared with fructose had the lowest crystallinity values (p < 0.05). Spin Diffusion experiments were performed by using Goldman−Shen pulse sequence and the interface thickness (d) was calculated. Interface thickness values showed a wide range of variation (p < 0.05). Results showed that non-conventional NMR approaches had high potential to be utilized in food systems for quality control purposes.

Sweet spot in music—Is predictability preferred among persons with psychotic-like experiences or autistic traits?

People prefer music with an intermediate level of predictability; not so predictable as to be boring, yet not so unpredictable that it ceases to be music. This sweet spot for predictability varies due to differences in the perception of predictability. The symptoms of both psychosis and Autism Spectrum Disorder have been attributed to overestimation of uncertainty, which predicts a preference for predictable stimuli and environments. In a pre-registered study, we tested this prediction by investigating whether psychotic and autistic traits were associated with a higher preference for predictability in music. Participants from the general population were presented with twenty-nine pre-composed music excerpts, scored on their complexity by musical experts. A participant’s preferred level of predictability corresponded to the peak of the inverted U-shaped curve between music complexity and liking (i.e., a Wundt curve). We found that the sweet spot for predictability did indeed vary between individuals. Contrary to predictions, we did not find support for these variations being associated with autistic and psychotic traits. The findings are discussed in the context of the Wundt curve and the use of naturalistic stimuli. We also provide recommendations for further exploration.

Cross-sectional nationwide mixed-methods population-based study of living conditions, and identification of sexual and fertility profiles among young women after breast cancer in France: the Candy study protocol

INTRODUCTION

At the end of the treatment, many young breast cancer (BC) survivors face difficulties related to fertility and sexuality, mainly due to the side effects of treatment. Integrating patient needs into medical decisions is becoming increasingly essential for high quality care. To this end, there is a compelling need to elicit patients' perspectives through qualitative studies, to understand their experiences and needs in the aftermath of cancer. We aim to: (1) identify clinical, social and economic determinants of sexuality and fertility, and describe other living conditions of young BC survivors in France; and (2) explore young women's experience after BC in relation to clinical and information needs about fertility preservation and sexual health.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a mixed-methods, cross-sectional, population-based study. In the quantitative component, women diagnosed with non-metastatic BC between 2009 and 2016 and aged 40 years or younger at diagnosis will be identified through the French network of cancer registries (FRANCIM). Participants will complete self-report questionnaires including standardised measures of sexuality, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety, depression, social deprivation and social support. Fertility and professional reintegration issues will also be assessed. Sexuality profiles will be identified by ascending hierarchical classification and fertility profiles will be identified by latent class models. Determinants of sexuality, fertility and HRQoL will be identified using a mixed regression model. Subsequently, semistructured interviews will be performed with a sample of 30 women who participated in the quantitative study. Interviews will be recorded, transcribed synthetically and content analysis will be performed, with the aid of NVivo software.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study will be performed in accordance with the declaration of Helsinki. The protocol was approved in October 2020 by the Committee for the Protection of Persons North-West III (20.07.16.44445) and by the French national data protection authority (CNIL-MR003 No1989764-v0).The results of this project will be communicated to the scientific community through publications in international scientific peer-reviewed journals and communications to national and international congresses. Popularised results will also be provided to patient associations. The results of Candy project will also be published on the website of the sponsor, www.cgfl.fr.

The improvement of texture properties and storage stability for kappa carrageenan in developing vegan gummy candies

BACKGROUND

As plant-based foods have become more mainstream in recent years, carrageenan has been used to replace animal-derived gelatin in confectionery products. However, texture defects and water seepage during storage limit the development of kappa carrageenan (KC) gummy candies.

RESULTS

This study evaluated the effects of hydrocolloids on the texture properties and storage stability of KC gummy candies. The results showed that 4 g kg^-1 carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) composited with 20 g kg^-1 KC formed a flexible gummy candy with low fragility and limited water seepage during storage. Further investigation revealed that 4 g kg^-1 CMC promoted side-by-side intermolecular aggregation of KC helices through hydrogen bonding, which stabilized a denser network structure compared to the pure KC hydrogel. However, high CMC proportions (8-12 g kg^-1 ) led to electrostatic repulsion that dominated in the system, inhibiting the gel-forming process and thus resulting in a weak gel structure with accelerated syneresis.

CONCLUSION

This study found that 4 g kg^-1 CMC was able to improve the flexibility and decrease unacceptable fragility of KC gummy candies, with water seepage decreased during storage significantly. It provided preliminary evidence for utilizing hydrocolloids to adjust texture and control water migration in KC gels, and has potential to promote wide development of vegan gummy candies. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Detection of Authenticity and Quality of the Turkish Delights (Lokum) by Means of Conventional and Fast Field Cycling Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Relaxometry

Turkish delights (lokum) are traditional confectionery products that contain mainly sucrose as the sugar source and starch as the gelling agent. However, manufacturers sometimes might prefer to use corn syrup instead of sucrose to decrease the cost. This jeopardizes the originality of Turkish delights and leads to production of adulterated samples. In this study, Turkish delights were formulated using sucrose (original sample) and different types of corn syrups (SBF10, SCG40, and SCG60). Results clearly indicated that corn-syrup-containing samples had improved textural properties and were less prone to crystallization. However, this case affected authenticity of the products negatively. Both time domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD NMR) and fast field cycling nuclear magnetic resonance (FFC NMR) techniques were found to be effective to discriminate the original samples from the corn-syrup-containing samples. In addition, quantitative analysis of FFC NMR showed that, apart from the rotational motions, molecules in Turkish delights (mainly water and also sugar molecules) undergo two types of translational dynamics.

Soft Candy as an Electronic Material Suitable for Salivary Conductivity-Based Medical Diagnostics in Resource-Scarce Clinical Settings

Soft candy was discovered to be an excellent electronic material and was used to fabricate electrodes for salivary conductivity-based diagnostics. Using a simple molding process, a soft candy (Tootsie Roll) was made into 20 × 20 × 5 mm electrodes with a stable frequency response (0.1-100 kHz). The soft candy electrode-liquid interface circuit model was also developed for the first time. Using 0.01, 0.05, and 0.1 M phosphate-buffered saline and artificial saliva of varying conductivities, the performance of the soft candy (Tootsie Roll) electrode was evaluated. The electrode has a low temperature coefficient of ∼0.02 V/C, and the evaporation-induced mass change during measurement (<3 min) was negligible. Using a trenched surface, a limit of detection (LOD) of ∼1630 μS/cm was obtained and was lower than the saliva conductivity of a healthy adult at ∼3500 μS/cm. Thus, it is suitable for monitoring the ovulation cycle for natural family planning as well as chronic kidney disease diagnosis. Given the ubiquity of soft candy, the simplicity of the molding process, and the negligible medical waste stream, it is a more appropriate approach to diagnostics design for resource-scarce clinical settings, such as those in developing countries. The broader impact of this work will be the paradigm shift of soft candy from food to a new class of edible, moldable, high-resistivity, and stable electronic materials.

Influence of extrusion process on the release of phenolic compounds from mango (Mangifera indica L.) bagasse-added confections and evaluation of their bioaccessibility, intestinal permeability, and antioxidant capacity

Extruded polyphenol-rich by-products like mango bagasse (MB) could be used to manufacture functional confections. However, few reports have assessed the extrusion impact on MB polyphenols within a food matrix. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of extrusion on the bioaccessibility, intestinal permeability, and antioxidant capacity of phenolic compounds (PC) from non-extruded and extruded MB-added confections (EMBC and MBC, respectively). The inhibition of 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals and in silico approaches were used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity. MBC displayed the highest gastric bioaccessibility (%) of xanthones and flavonoids, whereas selective release of gallic acid, mangiferin, and quercetin glucoside was shown for EMBC. Lower PC' apparent permeability coefficients were found in EMBC compared to MB (0.11 to 0.44-fold change, p < 0.05). EMBC displayed the highest antioxidant capacity by the DPPH method for the non-digestible fraction, being mangiferin the highest in silico contributor (-4 kcal/mol). Our results showed that the extrusion process helps release selective phenolics from MBC, which increases their bioaccessibility and intestinal permeability.

Membrane-based conceptual design of reuse water production from candy factory wastewater

Intense pressure on water resources has led to efforts to reuse reclaimed processing wastewater in the food industry. There are tight rules for water quality, but efficient separation technologies such as reverse osmosis possess good possibilities for water reuse. This study developed a membrane-based reuse water concept for wastewater from the candy industry emphasizing the pre-treatment stage in the concept to reduce fouling. The wastewater contained suspended solids, sugar compounds and the ingredients for candy gelation, which had a tendency to foul membranes, making pre-treatment essential for a successful concept. Cross-rotational ultrafiltration, which featured enhanced fouling prevention for membranes, functioned well for the removal of challenging substances. Conventional filtration technologies were impractical due to a low flux, even when the viscosity of the wastewater was reduced using surfactants. The wastewater had a high chemical oxygen demand, meaning that there was a strong fouling potential for reverse osmosis membranes, but also high osmotic pressure. A spiral wound reverse osmosis functioned well when the wastewater was pre-treated, and it produced good quality water with respect to all the other studied parameters except the chemical oxygen demand. However, chemical oxygen demand rejection was 99% since the concentration in the wastewater was originally very high.

Altering product placement to create a healthier layout in supermarkets: Outcomes on store sales, customer purchasing, and diet in a prospective matched controlled cluster study

BACKGROUND

Previous product placement trials in supermarkets are limited in scope and outcome data collected. This study assessed the effects on store-level sales, household-level purchasing, and dietary behaviours of a healthier supermarket layout.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

This is a prospective matched controlled cluster trial with 2 intervention components: (i) new fresh fruit and vegetable sections near store entrances (replacing smaller displays at the back) and frozen vegetables repositioned to the entrance aisle, plus (ii) the removal of confectionery from checkouts and aisle ends opposite. In this pilot study, the intervention was implemented for 6 months in 3 discount supermarkets in England. Three control stores were matched on store sales and customer profiles and neighbourhood deprivation. Women customers aged 18 to 45 years, with loyalty cards, were assigned to the intervention (n = 62) or control group (n = 88) of their primary store. The trial registration number is NCT03518151. Interrupted time series analysis showed that increases in store-level sales of fruits and vegetables were greater in intervention stores than predicted at 3 (1.71 standard deviations (SDs) (95% CI 0.45, 2.96), P = 0.01) and 6 months follow-up (2.42 SDs (0.22, 4.62), P = 0.03), equivalent to approximately 6,170 and approximately 9,820 extra portions per store, per week, respectively. The proportion of purchasing fruits and vegetables per week rose among intervention participants at 3 and 6 months compared to control participants (0.2% versus -3.0%, P = 0.22; 1.7% versus -3.5%, P = 0.05, respectively). Store sales of confectionery were lower in intervention stores than predicted at 3 (-1.05 SDs (-1.98, -0.12), P = 0.03) and 6 months (-1.37 SDs (-2.95, 0.22), P = 0.09), equivalent to approximately 1,359 and approximately 1,575 fewer portions per store, per week, respectively; no differences were observed for confectionery purchasing. Changes in dietary variables were predominantly in the expected direction for health benefit. Intervention implementation was not within control of the research team, and stores could not be randomised. It is a pilot study, and, therefore, not powered to detect an effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthier supermarket layouts can improve the nutrition profile of store sales and likely improve household purchasing and dietary quality. Placing fruits and vegetables near store entrances should be considered alongside policies to limit prominent placement of unhealthy foods.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03518151 (pre-results).

Effect of coffee and cocoa-based confectionery containing coffee on markers of cardiometabolic health: results from the pocket-4-life project

PURPOSE

Coffee is an important source of bioactive compounds, including caffeine, trigonelline, and phenolic compounds. Several studies have highlighted the preventive effects of coffee consumption on major cardiometabolic (CM) diseases, but the impact of different coffee dosages on markers of CM risk in a real-life setting has not been fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the effect of coffee and cocoa-based confectionery containing coffee consumption on several CM risk factors in healthy subjects.

METHODS

In a three-arm, crossover, randomized trial, 21 volunteers were assigned to consume in a random order for 1 month: 1 cup of espresso coffee/day, 3 cups of espresso coffee/day, and 1 cup of espresso coffee plus 2 cocoa-based products containing coffee, twice per day. At the last day of each treatment, blood samples were collected and used for the analysis of inflammatory markers, trimethylamine N-oxide, nitric oxide, blood lipids, and markers of glucose/insulin metabolism. Moreover, anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured. Finally, food consumption during the interventions was monitored.

RESULTS

After 1 month, energy intake did not change among treatments, while significant differences were observed in the intake of saturated fatty acids, sugars, and total carbohydrates. No significant effect on CM markers was observed following neither the consumption of different coffee dosages nor after cocoa-based products containing coffee.

CONCLUSIONS

The daily consumption of common dosages of coffee and its substitution with cocoa-based products containing coffee showed no effect on CM risk factors in healthy subjects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03166540, May 21, 2017.

Candy, Snack Food, and Soda in the Checkout Lines of Stores Selling Products for Children in New York City

While genetic and hormonal factors likely play a role in the development of obesity, lifestyle issues such as diet and physical activity are main contributors. Lifestyle issues are largely influenced by environmental factors, which pertain not only to access and availability, but exposure to opportunities for unplanned food and beverage purchases. The purpose of this study was to describe the extent to which candy, snack foods, and sugary beverages are available in checkout lines in a convenience sample retail chain stores in NYC that sell products for children. Non-probability, convenience sampling was used to select a total of 22 stores to visit in person. All stores were visited and the checkout lines were observed, capturing both the checkout style (single lane versus multiple lane; corralled or non-corralled), and the products (if any) being sold. Of the 22 stores surveyed, 17 (77.27%) sold at least one convenience food (candy and snacks), and/or sugary beverages. Among the stores that sell convenience food, nearly all (82.35%) sell candy, 100% of those with no corral-style line and 76.92% of those using a corral-style line. The findings from this study concur with prior research indicating that non-nutritious food items and sugary beverages have a presence at checkout areas of retail stores, thus driving the possibility for impulse buys. Exposure to messaging and ques are potentially influential on public health, and should be a point of reflection in terms of the kinds of policies that can support or hinder public health.

Reducing Young Schoolchildren's Intake of Sugar-Rich Food and Drinks: Study Protocol and Intervention Design for "Are You Too Sweet?" A Multicomponent 3.5-Month Cluster Randomised Family-Based Intervention Study

A high consumption of sugar-rich discretionary food and drinks has several health implications, which have been traced from childhood into adulthood. Parents act as primary mediators shaping children's dietary habits, and interventions that engage parents have shown to result in positive outcomes. Further, collaboration with local school health nurses and dentists provides an effective structural frame to support behaviour change and anchor new initiatives. The multicomponent 3.5-month cluster randomised family-focused intervention "Are you too Sweet?" aims to evaluate the effectiveness of communicating new Danish guidelines for sugar-rich discretionary food and drinks for school starters (5-7 years). This paper describes the development, outcomes and process evaluation of the intervention that includes three main components: extended dialogue during a school health nurse consultation, a box with home-use materials, and a social media platform to facilitate interaction among participants. Children (n = 160) and their parents were scheduled for a baseline interview at six different schools. The intervention was developed to increase self-efficacy, knowledge about guidelines, observational learning and reduce impediments for behavioural change. The desired primary outcome was a reduction in intake of sugar-rich food measured through a 7-day dietary record. The results contribute to the evidence on effective health promotion strategies.

The Consumption of Sweets and Academic Performance among Mongolian Children

The regular consumption of sweets has been shown to have an adverse association with the academic performance of children in developed countries; however, the situation in developing countries is less clear. Therefore, we examined the association between the consumption of sweets and academic performance among Mongolian children via a cross-sectional study employing data from 787 children aged 8–16 from two public schools in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. The frequency of the consumption of sweets by the children was captured using a questionnaire and then linked to their academic scores; the association between the consumption of sweets and scores in mathematics and the Mongolian language was evaluated using multiple linear regression adjusted for other covariates. It was found that out of 787 students, 58.6% ate sweets every day. After adjusting for covariates, no significant association was observed between the consumption of sweets and mathematics scores (coefficient: 0.15; 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.02–0.32), while a higher consumption of sweets was significantly associated with higher scores in the Mongolian language (coefficient: 0.25; 95% CI: 0.09–0.41). The associations established in this study are inconsistent with the reports of other studies.

Dietary Acrylamide Intake and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: The Japan Public Health Center-Based Prospective Study

Acrylamide is a probable carcinogen in humans. Few studies have assessed dietary acrylamide intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer; however, these studies are based on Western populations. Our purpose was to investigate the association of dietary acrylamide intake with the risk of pancreatic cancer utilizing data from the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study. We evaluated the data of 89,729 participants aged 45-74 years, who replied to a questionnaire on past medical history and lifestyle habits from 1995-1998. Dietary acrylamide intake was estimated utilizing a validated food frequency questionnaire. We calculated the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals by using Cox proportional-hazards regression models. The average follow-up was 15.2 years, and 576 cases of pancreatic cancer were diagnosed. In the multivariate-adjusted model, an association between dietary acrylamide intake and pancreatic cancer risk was not demonstrated (hazard ratio for the highest vs. lowest quartile = 0.83, 95% confidence interval: 0.65-1.05, p for trend = 0.07). Furthermore, in the analyses stratified by sex, smoking status, coffee consumption, green tea consumption, alcohol consumption, and body mass index, no significant association was detected. Dietary acrylamide intake was not associated with the pancreatic cancer risk in Japanese individuals.

Composition and Antibacterial Effect of Mint Flavorings in Candies and Food Supplements

Mint flavorings are widely used in confections, beverages, and dairy products. For the first time, mint flavoring composition of mint candies and food supplements (n = 45), originating from 16 countries, as well as their antibacterial properties, was analyzed. The flavorings were isolated by Marcusson's type micro-apparatus and analyzed by GC-MS. The total content of the mint flavoring hydrodistilled extracts was in the range of 0.01 - 0.9%. The most abundant compounds identified in the extracts were limonene, 1,8-cineole, menthone, menthofuran, isomenthone, menthol and its isomers, menthyl acetate. The antimicrobial activity of 13 reference substances and 10 selected mint flavoring hydrodistilled extracts was tested on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus by broth dilution method. Linalool acetate and (-)-carvone, as most active against both bacteria, had the lowest MIC₉₀ values. (+)-Menthyl acetate, (-)-menthyl acetate, and limonene showed no antimicrobial activity. Three of the tested extracts had antimicrobial activity against E. coli and 8 extracts against S. aureus. Their summary antimicrobial activity was not always in concordance with the activities of respective reference substances.

Prevalence and strategies of energy drink, soda, processed snack, candy and restaurant product marketing on the online streaming platform Twitch

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of food and beverage marketing on Twitch.tv (Twitch), a social media platform where individuals broadcast live audiovisual material to millions of daily users.

DESIGN

Observational analysis of the prevalence of 238 food and beverage brands in five distinct categories (processed snacks; food delivery services and restaurants; candies, energy drinks/coffees/teas; and sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages) over the course of 18 months.

SETTING

Twitch streamer profiles and stream titles between January 2018 and July 2019. Twitch chat room messages during July 2019.

PARTICIPANTS

None.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in brand exposure on Twitch both in stream titles (sodas and candies, P < 0·05) and on streamer profiles (sodas, restaurants/food delivery services, candies, and energy drinks/coffees/teas, P < 0·05) over the 18-month study period. Energy drinks, coffees and teas had the most exposure with 1·08 billion exposure hours from profiles and 83 million exposure hours from titles. Restaurants/food delivery services and sugar-sweetened beverages were the most frequently mentioned products in chat rooms with 1·24 million messages and 1·10 million messages, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to demonstrate the extent by which food and beverage brands garner millions of hours of exposure on Twitch. Future studies should evaluate the impact that this level of exposure to nutrient-poor, energy-dense products may have on behavioural and health outcomes.

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccination Policy and Consumption of Ammonium Chloride-Enriched Confectioneries May Be Factors Reducing COVID-19 Death Rates in Europe

BACKGROUND

The 2019 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic continued into 2020, and the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) associated death toll increased.

OBJECTIVES

To analyze COVID-19 death rates in European countries or regions to determine whether there was a significant association between bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination policy and lower rates of COVID-19 related deaths.

METHODS

Certain Northern European countries or regions had low death rates regardless of BCG policy. The authors assumed the consumption of foods containing salmiak (NH4Cl) was a common and peculiar cause of the reduced COVID-19 related death rates in these countries, because NH4Cl is a known lysosomotropic agent, which has been indicated to inhibit or prevent SARS-CoV infection. To check the possible effectiveness of salmiak consumption against COVID-19 related death, the authors used a linear regression model with the death rate as the dependent variable and BCG-policy and salmiak consumption score as independent variables.

RESULTS

Using least squares regression and a robust standard error algorithm, the authors found a significant effect exerted by the independent variables (P < 0.0005 for BCG and P = 0.001 for salmiak). Salmiak score alone was significant (P = 0.016) when using least squares regression with robust error algorithm.

CONCLUSIONS

The results seem to confirm an association between BCG-positive vaccination policy and salmiak consumption, and lower death rates from COVID-19. Implementing BCG vaccination policy and fortification of foods with salmiak (NH4Cl) may have a significant impact on the control of SARS-CoV epidemic.

Association between junk food consumption and cardiometabolic risk factors in a national sample of Iranian children and adolescents population: the CASPIAN-V study

AIMS

Only a few studies have attempted to assess the relationship between junk food consumption and cardiometabolic risk factors in Iranian children and adolescents; therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the association between junk food intake and cardiometabolic risk factors in this population.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study.

METHODS

A total of 14,400 students were selected from 30 provinces of Iran using multistage, stratified cluster sampling method. Information about student's lifestyle, health behaviors and health status was obtained through a validated questionnaire. Blood pressure was measured and anthropometric indices were calculated. Blood samples were drawn from 3,303 students for biochemical tests. In our study, sugar-sweetened beverages, salty snacks, sweets and fast foods were considered as junk foods.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 12.42 ± 2.97 years. Those with metabolic syndrome were more likely to live in urban areas (P = 0.004) and have higher BMI (P < 0.0001). Junk food intake was not related to metabolic syndrome; however, it was associated with increased odds of high BP (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09, 1.39), high SBP (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.09, 1.75), and high DBP (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.04, 1.35), overweight (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.08, 1.39) and excess weight (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04, 1.25).

CONCLUSIONS

Junk food consumption plays an important role in childhood overweight and is related to high blood pressure in this population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, case-control analytic studies.