Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Dietary Interventions and Microbiome in Phenylketonuria

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) comprise a diverse group of monogenic disorders caused by enzyme deficiencies that result either in a toxic accumulation of metabolic intermediates or a shortage of essential end-products. Certain IEMs, like phenylketonuria (PKU), necessitate stringent dietary intervention that could lead to microbiome dysbiosis, thereby exacerbating the clinical phenotype. The objective of this systematic review was to examine the impact of PKU therapies on the intestinal microbiota. This research was conducted following the PRISMA Statement, with data from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. A total of 18 articles meeting the inclusion criteria were published from 2011 to 2022. Significant reductions in several taxonomic groups in individuals with PKU when compared to the control group were detected in a quantitative analysis conducted across seven studies. The meta-analysis synthesis indicates a contrast in biodiversity between PKU subjects and the control population. Additionally, the meta-regression results, derived from the Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio data, suggest a potential influence of diet in adult PKU populations (p = 0.004). It is worth noting that the limited number of studies calls for further research and analysis in this area. Our findings indicate the necessity of enhancing understanding of microbiota variability in reaction to treatments among PKU subjects to design tailored therapeutic and nutritional interventions to prevent complications resulting from microbiota disruption.

[World Health Organization document "water safety in buildings": Italian translation]

A working group of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SItI) has translated into Italian the World Health Organization (WHO) guidance document "Water safety in buildings" published in 2011. The document is intended to provide guidance on implementing the WHO Guidelines for drinking-water quality. In the present article, the authors describe the framework of the WHO document and summarize the main points discussed.

[Adapted physical activity: the role in secondary prevention of the osteoporosis]

An active lifestyle represents a significant factor in prevention of osteoporosis. Evidences on multifactorial etiology allowed to develop a plan for risk evaluation and for an integrated screening approach. Adapted physical activity plays a relevant role in secondary prevention, also when performed in swimming pools.

[World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for coastal and fresh waters: Italian translation by the Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health (SItI) Working Group "Movement Sciences for Health"]

The Working Group "Movement Sciences for Health" of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health has promoted the Italian translation of the WHO Guidelines for Safe Recreational Water Environments, relating to coastal and freshwater environments. In this article the authors briefly summarize the main areas covered in the guidelines, namely drowning and injury, exposure to cold, heat and sunlight, water quality, contamination of beach sand, exposure to algae and their products, aesthetic issues, exposure to chemical and physical agents, dangerous aquatic organisms, monitoring and assessment hazards and risks.

[Health promotion through physical activity: territorial models and experiences]

Scientific evidences support the preventive role of physical activity in relation to different multifactorial pathologies. Health's promotion through the spreading of lifestyles that encourage movement, does not represent just an action in contrast with "sedentary life" risk-factor, but also a priority for "quality" of life, with relevant economical and social benefits. WHO indicates physical activity as one of the priorities for an effective prevention. Besides, the EU supports the realization and the diffusion of some prevention-programs. Main pilot experiences developed in Italy and other countries are summarized. Attention is focused on the role of the competences and structures involved in an integrated approach based on availability of medical support, social services and local structures, considering recent developments in health prevention and promotion. In Italy and Europe, new opportunities to implement health promotion through physical activity are offered by the development of higher education in movement and sport sciences.