Chronic inflammation and changes in body composition are consequences of aging, resulting in greater susceptibility to age-related diseases. Selenium (Se) is involved in metabolic processes related to muscle mass, lipid and glycemic profile and anti-inflammatory action. The functionality of Se occurs through selenoproteins, among which, selenoprotein P (SELENOP), acts in the distribution of this element in tissues, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. The study aimed to evaluate the plasma intake of Se, SELENOP and dietary Se in institutionalized elderly people and test associations with anthropometric parameters, metabolic profile and inflammatory markers. This is a cross-sectional study, carried out with 72 elderly people living in public and private Long-Term Institutions for the Elderly in Natal/RN. Anthropometric measurements comprised body mass index (BMI), calf circumference (PP) and waist circumference (WC). Daily food consumption was assessed using the direct food weighing method. Plasma Se concentration was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and SELENOP enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c) and triglycerides (TG) were quantified to analyze the metabolic profile. The pro-inflammatory biomarkers analyzed were ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) by chemiluminescence. Comparison between variables was performed using the Chi-square test and Student's t test. Correlations between Se in plasma and SELENOP with anthropometric parameters, metabolic profile and inflammatory markers were performed using Spearman's correlation (ρ). Participants were mostly female (72%) with a mean age (SD) of 82.76 (8.55). The mean concentrations of Se in plasma and SELENOP were 93.08 μg/L (26.71) and 31.09 ng/dL (4.83), respectively, with 63.9% of the population presenting Se levels below the established cutoff point. Dietary Se intake was 72.66 μg/day (11.89). Plasma Se showed a positive correlation with BMI (ρ = 0.408, p = 0.001). Participants with plasma Se <100 μg/L showed a significant association with low weight categorized by BMI (p=0.04). The majority of participants had elevated HbA1c (65.2%). In turn, those who had lower concentrations of SELENOP had an HbA1c value greater than 5.7% (p=0.049). Selenium intake was lower in those with HbA1c greater than 6.5% (78.9%) (p=0.054). In conclusion, plasma Se was associated with low weight and SELENOP with HbA1c, as well as dietary intake, in institutionalized elderly people in the city of Natal/RN.

Wildmeat derived from wild animals is essential for the food security of traditional communities. However, information on the nutritional profile of these foods remains scarce. In this study, we developed a systematic review to examine the influence of different parts of the animal (muscle versus viscera) and the taxonomic class (mammals, birds, reptiles) on the nutritional composition of wildmeat. We used the PRISMA protocol to select articles from various databases, applying a quality questionnaire and a concordance analysis (Fleiss' Kappa = 1.00) to ensure the robustness of the included studies. Artificial intelligence techniques (K-Nearest Neighbors) were employed to estimate unreported nutritional values in 22 selected articles, covering 33 animal species and 10 essential nutrients (macronutrients and minerals). Considering the nature of the data, we conducted parametric or non-parametric tests, adopting a p-value of 0.05 to determine the statistical significance of the results and, finally, in cases of significant differences, we proceeded with post hoc tests. Our results reveal significant variations in the nutritional composition between different body parts and among animal classes. For example, reptile viscera have more than double the lipid content (p = 0.0486) and triple the iron content (p = 0.00000) compared to muscles. In the case of mammals, the viscera contain five times more omega 6 (p = 0.0000000153) and selenium (p = 0.0000114), four times more iron and manganese (p = 0.00000 and p = 0.00000000272, respectively), and almost double the zinc (p = 0.000232) compared to muscles. We also observed differences in nutritional composition among classes, highlighting the lipid content in birds, which is over 90% higher than that found in mammal muscles (p = 0.000327) and 20% higher than in reptiles (p = 0.0376); zinc in mammals, with values more than 100% higher than in birds (p-value = 0.00192); and selenium in reptiles, exceeding birds by more than 400% (pvalue = 0.00379). However, we did not identify a significant difference in iron content between mammals and birds, which may be attributed to the method of slaughtering birds rather than to physiological aspects of the class. We conclude that wildmeat, in the context of populations that consume this food, should be treated as a relevant resource both in terms of access, in relation to the concept of food security, and in terms of utilization, given its nutritional quality. This study not only fills a gap in the comprehensive nutritional profile of wildmeat but also introduces, for the first time in the context of analyzing this resource, a methodology for handling missing data (K-Nearest Neighbors), offering an analytical solution to address data scarcity, considering the ethical and legal dilemmas in wildlife analysis. The conclusions of this work can guide nutritional aspects in food security policies, as well as wildlife management decisions in conservation policies, seeking a balance between conservation and subsistence. 

According to the Brazilian Federal Constitution, food, housing, and assistance to the destitute are part of social rights, and it is the State's duty to ensure compliance with these rights. Public shelters are spaces of reception and care that enable the realization of some of these rights, ensuring fundamental services for the homeless population such as personal hygiene, food, and shelter. The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of the food purchased and the hygienic-sanitary conditions of the production process of meals in public community shelters for homeless people, in the State of Rio Grande do Norte. Quantitative, desc According to the Brazilian Federal Constitution, food, housing, and assistance to the destitute are part of social rights, and it is the State's duty to ensure compliance with these rights. Public shelters are spaces of reception and care that enable the realization of some of these rights, ensuring fundamental services for the homeless population such as personal hygiene, food, and shelter. The present study aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of the food purchased and the hygienic-sanitary conditions of the production process of meals in public community shelters for homeless people, in the State of Rio Grande do Norte. A quantitative, descriptive, and observational field research was carried out in four public shelters located in three different municipalities in the State. The research presented two axes of investigation: the nutritional quality of food, by checking the excess of critical nutrients in purchased foods; and hygienic-sanitary quality, with verification of good handling practices through the application of a checklist based on current sanitary legislation. The results of the 4 units evaluated showed that, in relation to the excess of critical nutrients, of the total of 132 foodstuffs purchased in the units during the evaluated period, 11% corresponded to processed foods (PF) and 36% ultra-processed foods (UPF). Of the total PF and UPF, 74% had at least one critical nutrient in excess. Sodium was the most prevalent excess critical nutrient in the foods evaluated, being in excess in 48%, 53% and 39% of the foods purchased in units 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The evaluation of the hygienic-sanitary conditions of meal production showed that 3 units were classified as “bad” and 1 as “good”. Situations were observed that could pose a risk to users' health, such as the lack of temperature control during the various stages of the meal production process. Given the results, it can be concluded that the production of meals in the public shelter evaluated is in unsatisfactory hygienic-sanitary conditions and that a considerable part of the food purchased to make up the menus to be offered to users has an excess of critical nutrients. The data obtained highlights the need for more investments by public authorities to effectively promote Food and Nutritional Security for this population.

Introduction: Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and leads to malnutrition in affected patients. It is known that 20% of patients die as a result of malnutrition and associated complications, and not from the disease itself. Therefore, risk assessment and nutritional status are imperative to correctly and early detect nutritional risk in these patients and encourage early intervention in those who need it. Nutritional screening and diagnosis tools become essential in this process. Objectives: To verify the prevalence of malnutrition according to the GLIM (Global Leadership on Malnutrition) criteria using different nutritional risk screening tools, and the association with mortality in cancer patients. Methods: The study represents a secondary analysis of a cohort with prospective data collection and assessment of cancer patients in a hospital setting. Nutritional risk screening was carried out using the Protocol for Nutritional Risk in Oncology (PRONTO), Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS-2002), Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST), Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and Nutriscore tools. The assessment of nutritional status was carried out using the criteria proposed by GLIM. Accuracy metrics were evaluated to verify the complementarity of nutritional screening with the GLIM criteria in diagnosing malnutrition, and Cox regression analysis was used to verify the association between mortality and the diagnosis of malnutrition preceded by the application of different nutritional screening tools. Results: 290 patients were evaluated, the majority of whom were elderly (60.3%), female (53.1%) and with solid tumors (89.7%). Of the total, 118 (40.7%) individuals died. The PRONTO tool identified more individuals (n = 240, 82.8%) at risk of malnutrition, compared to the others. However, like the others, it presented reduced complementarity to the GLIM criteria, taking into account specificity values (44.6%) and negative predictive value (58.0%) obtained. Regarding the risk of mortality, after adjustment for confounding variables, the presence of malnutrition according to GLIM, without prior screening, was associated with mortality (HR: 3.35; 95% CI 1.70 – 6.80; p < 0.001). Nutritional risk was also an independent predictor of death, regardless of the nutritional screening tool used (HR between 1.70 and 10.07). Furthermore, the presence of nutritional risk and malnutrition, regardless of the screening tool used, increased the risk of death between 1.93 and 4.43 times. Patients with nutritional risk identified by the ASG-PPP tool and malnutrition by GLIM had a higher risk of death compared to those with malnutrition and nutritional risk identified by the other tools (HR: 4.43; 95%CI 2.33 – 8.42; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of malnutrition according to GLIM depends on the tool applied to screen nutritional risk prior to assessing the presence of etiological and phenotypic criteria, and was higher when applied to ASG-PPP. Despite this, the findings suggest that none of these adequately complemented GLIM, or appropriately identified nutritional risk through the factors they use. Nutritional risk and malnutrition alone or in combination, regardless of the nutritional screening tool applied, were predictors of death in cancer patients.

Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome (CZS) encompasses a series of malformations in children exposed during the intrauterine phase, such as microcephaly that affects physical and cognitive development, triggering complications in the feeding and growth process. Despite being recommended as the first source of nutrition, it is not known whether breastfeeding has a protective effect on the growth of these children, which is why this research aims to analyze the association between breastfeeding and the growth of children with microcephaly associated with SCZ. To this end, a longitudinal, prospective and observational cohort investigation was carried out with children with microcephaly associated with SCZ living in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. For this analysis, information from 0, 6, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months of age was developed. Breastfeeding was assessed using the second indicators proposed by the World Health Organization and growth using the z scores of the weight/age, height/age, weight/height and BMI/age indices. Associations were explored using covariate-adjusted logistic regression equations. Of the 73 children monitored, the average birth weight was 2621.81 g (± 69.34 SD), length was 44.99 cm (± 3.49 SD), and the average time of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) was 3.27 months. 91.80% of the children were breastfed at some point in their lives, 31.5% were breastfed in the second year of life. Children generally presented a growth pattern below that expected for their age and sex, with a progressive increase in nutritional deviations over time. Those who received EBF for more than 4 months had higher z-scores for height/age and weight/age. Using logistic regression, we obtained that the presence of EBF in the first two days of life prevented the child's chance of being short at 24 months by 99% (OR = 0.007; 95% CI = 0- 0.44; p= 0.019), and 97% at 36 months (OR = 0.033; 95% CI = 0-0.80; p=0.036). Using the same method, exclusive breastfeeding for more than 4 months reduces by 80% (OR = 0.200; 95% CI = 0.04-0.98; p=0.047) the chance of developing low weight and low length, simultaneously, at 24 months. The results confirm the magnitude of the importance of breast milk for preventing the double burden of malnutrition also in children with SCZ.

Jambolão (Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels) is an important source of bioactive compounds, particularly anthocyanins, a class of phenolic compounds that contribute to its biological properties. However, prior to evaluating its bioactive properties, it is necessary to conduct investigations that ensure safe dosages for its use. In this regard, this study aimed to perform a toxicological screening of jambolão hydroalcoholic extract (EJ) administered in different concentrations to using the zebrafish model (Danio rerio) at different life stages (embryonic and adult) of this organism. EJ was obtained from freeze-dried jambolão fruits, using 70% v/v ethanol through exhaustive extraction, and subjected to high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and characterized for total phenolic compounds (CFT), total monomeric anthocyanins (AMT) and antioxidant activity (ABTS and DPPH). Embryonic and adult zebrafish were exposed to serial concentrations of EJ (10 – 400 µg/ml) and subjected to acute toxicological screening, cardio and neurotoxicity evaluation. Fifteen phenolic compounds were identified by HPLC. The EJ showed a CFT content of 21.80 ± 0.01 mg EAG/g fruit and AMT 11.39 ± 0.91 mg Cy3-G/g fruit, with DPPH antioxidant activity of 844.70 ± 58.81 mmol Eq. Trolox/g and ABTS+ of 323.88 ± 11.05 mmol Eq. Trolox/g, with inhibitory activity (IC50) of ABTS+ at 0.606 mg/ml. EJ concentrations exceeding 50 µg/ml caused a greater number of malformations and death in both life stages of zebrafish. The estimated mean lethal concentration (LC50) for embryos was 118.4 ± 11.7 µg/ml and for adults it was 68.86 ± 4.45 µg/ml, with the chronic toxic dose estimated at 10.22 µg/ml ml and 5.54 µg/ml respectively. In general, there was no cardio or neurotoxicity observed in larvae exposed to EJ, but those exposed to a concentration of 10 µg/ml had lower behavioral performance (p < 0.0001). In adults, anxious behavior was noted in the EJ 10 µg/ml group in the new tank and avoidance tests (p < 0.05 and p ≥ 0.005), and in the EJ 100 µg/ml group in the sociability test (p < 0 .05); the EJ 50 µg/ml group had greater exploratory activity in the open field and aggressiveness tests (p < 0.05). Additionally, histopathological analyzes showed that animals in all groups, including the control group, presented mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate in the spinal cord, micro and macrovesicular steatosis, and intestine with compromised morphology. However, some animals in the groups exposed to EJ showed preserved intestinal morphology, suggesting a protective effect of EJ on this organ. Given the above, the results indicate that median doses of EJ (around 25 µg/ml) are safe in both life stages of zebrafish, however, new tests addressing aspects that were not analyzed in the present study need to be carried out at in order to guarantee the safety and effectiveness of EJ with a view to enabling the advancement of research into the bioactive potential of this extract in different health problems.

Phenolic compounds (PC) help prevent diseases due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they are unstable due to changes in pH, heat, and the presence of oxygen and light. Nanoencapsulation can improve bioaccessibility, bioavailability and preserve and/or enhance bioactive properties. The study aimed to synthesize and characterize nanoparticles containing PC-rich extract from Cantaloupe melon pulp (Cucumis melo L.) and evaluate the effect on antioxidant potential in vitro. The melon pulp was dried in a ventilated oven (55 °C/24 h) to obtain flour, used to extract PC by maceration using 50% methanol (v/v) and 70% v/v acetone (1:4 p/v). The extract was concentrated in a rotary evaporator (28 °C) and lyophilized. The PC concentration was determined by UV-vis spectrophotometry and the PC profile by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Three formulations were obtained using isolated whey protein (EPWI), concentrated whey protein (EPWC), and isolated soy protein (EPSP) through the nanoprecipitation technique in anti-solvent (acetone), using the Tween 80 as surfactant. The formulations were characterized in terms of incorporation efficiency (EI %) and by different physical and chemical methods: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta Potential (ZP), Infrared Spectroscopy by Fourier Transform (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and antioxidant potential by ABTS• and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) assay. The PC content determined was 750 (60.73) mg EAG/100 g of melon pulp flour. Ten PC were identified in the crude extract, with emphasis on procyanidin B1 [213.9 (33.23) mg/kg], fumaric acid [181.6 (30.55) mg/kg], chlorogenic acid [20.54 (3 .03) mg/kg) and trans-cinnamic acid [13.03 (1.46) mg/kg]. The EI results (%) showed high FC retention in EPWC [89.50 (0.23)] and EPSP [90.60 (6.52)], unlike EPWI [74.10 (0.28)] (p<0.05). The micrographs obtained indicated the formation of spherical particles with a smooth surface, and DLS indicated diameters equal to 80.70 (12.94) nm, 74.90 (10.78) nm, and 96.57 (10.17) nm, respectively for EPWI, EPWC, and EPSP. The Zeta Potential results obtained for EPWI, EPWC, and EPSP were equal to +19.60 mV (pH 3.4), +21.68 mV (pH 3.6), and +20.13 mV (pH 3.5), classified as moderately stable, indicating an ideal application in acidic food products. FTIR of the three formulations showed that the materials in the systems interacted chemically, suggesting the encapsulation of the crude extract. According to the X-ray diffractograms, the different nanoencapsulated were characterized as amorphous. The process of encapsulation has enhanced the total antioxidant (TAC) capacity of the particles up to twice for EPWI and up to six times for EPWC and EPSP than to crude extract (p<0.05). Therefore, nanoencapsulation with different encapsulating agents using the anti-solvent nanoprecipitation technique presents itself as a promising strategy to promote the encapsulation of phenolic compounds from Cantaloupe melon, expanding the potential for application in foods

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) worldwide, defined as a lack of access to adequate food in terms of quantity and quality. Among older people, FI is associated with poorer health outcomes and contributes to a lower perceived quality of life (QOL). In this sense, this study aims to analyse the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the frequency of FI and QoL in the older people of the Brazuca Natal Post-COVID study. This is a cross-sectional and cohort study. The diagnosis of COVID-19 was self-reported. FI was verified using the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale (EBIA). The WHOQOL-Bref and WHOQOL-Old questionnaires were used to assess QoL. We also analyzed socioeconomic and demographic information. Data was collected using an electronic questionnaire (Epicollect5). Statistical analysis included absolute and percentage frequencies, with 95% confidence intervals, and Poisson regression with robust variance. Wilcoxon's test for continuous variables and McNemar's test for categorical variables were used to checking whether there was a statistical difference in the pre-and post-pandemic periods between the scores on the QoL and AI questionnaires. Values of p < 0.05 were considered significant. The results of the cross-sectional study showed that AI was associated with a worse perception of QoL by the elderly. The WHOQOL-bref questionnaire showed that being in AI increased the likelihood of having a worse perception of QoL in the psychological (PR=1.47; IC%: 1.10-1.66), environmental (PR=1.70; IC%: 1.21-2.41) and overall QoL domains. In the WHOQoL-old questionnaire, AI was also associated with a worse perception of QoL in the domains of sense functioning (PR:1.46: 95%CI 1.06-2.00), autonomy (PR:1.57: 95%CI 1.13-2.18), past, present and future activities (PR:1.75: 95%CI 1.23-2.49), social participation (PR:1.34: 95%CI 1.01-1.79) death, dying (PR:1.90: 95%CI 1.34-2.68) and also in the total score (PR:2.28: 95%CI 1.62-3.20). The post-pandemic findings did not show a significant increase in AI in the population (p=1.000). Concerning the perception of QoL in the post-pandemic, there was a significant reduction in the scores of the domains "functioning of the senses" (p<0.0001), "social participation" (p=0.018), "death and dying" (p<0.0001) and "total score" (p<0.0001) of the WHOQoL-old questionnaire. Our main findings from the cross-sectional study showed that not having a partner, having an elementary school education or not being literate, having lower quartiles of family income per capita, being female and the condition of food insecurity in the household can have a negative perception of QoL among the older people. In terms of post-pandemic findings, it can be concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on older people's perceptions of QoL. These findings highlight the need for greater attention to this population in public health interventions.

The adoption of sustainable practices by nutritionists contributes to achieving target 3.4 of the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which aims to reduce mortality from non-communicable diseases by one third, promote mental health and wellbeing, and worker health by 2030. The objective was to develop and validate an instrument for evaluating sustainability practices related to the health and well-being dimension developed by collective food nutritionists. The research took place in four stages: 1) scope review based on PRISMA-ScR recommendations; 2) development of the instrument for evaluating the promotion of health and well-being in collective nutrition. The instrument was structured into four constructs (knowledge about the SDGs; dimension of health and food quality; health and well-being of workers in food and nutrition units and risk behaviors for health and well-being), totaling 34 items using a scale 5-point Likert to check frequency; 3) validation of content and clarity with a panel of experts using the Delphi method and applying the content validation index with over 80% consensus; 4) pilot test with nutritionists. The structure of the instrument was evaluated for its reliability using the statistical techniques of Cronbach's Alpha and Mcdonald's Omega Coefficient, and its validity through confirmatory factor analysis. In Step 1, for the scope review, 34 studies were included, 88% of which were conducted in Brazil, with a focus on evaluating the nutritional quality of menus and public worker food policies. Activities of collective feeding nutritionists related to achieving target 3.4 of the SDG were listed: planning healthy and sustainable menus, promoting worker health surveillance actions, periodic evaluation of workers' nutritional status, and fostering participatory leadership. In Steps 2 and 3, validation by an expert panel in three rounds (evaluation and feedback) culminated in the instrument containing 37 items, maintaining the four constructs of analysis. In Step 4, the instrument was applied to 105 nutritionists, revealing that 76% recognize the importance of the SDGs. It is noteworthy that 70% of the nutritionists frequently offer red meat on the menus, and only 13% reported using ultra-processed meat products. Regarding worker health, it was observed that only 29% frequently perform anthropometric evaluations of their workers. The main risk factors observed among workers in food units were sedentary lifestyle (53%), low consumption of fruits and vegetables (39%), and stress (67%). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated the presence of 8 factors, obtaining Cronbach's alpha (0.766) and Mcdonald's omega (0.882), indicating that the instrument has good internal consistency. The reliability of the factors was adequate (above 0.70) for almost all factors except for factor 2 (on the use of ultraprocessed foods on menus) (ω= 0.661; Cronbach α=0.645). It is concluded that the instrument compiled variables capable of identifying nutritionists' practices in collective nutrition aligned with the achievement of goal 3.4. of SDG3, being statistically valid and reliable.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a severe progressive neuromuscular condition characterized by orthopedic, cardiac, and respiratory impairments, often leading to premature death, and currently, it has no cure. The role of inflammation in the progression of this disease has been documented in the scientific literature, with reports of high levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. Considering that diet can influence systemic inflammation, this study aimed to investigate possible associations between the Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Pattern (EDIP-SP) and the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 in the DMD population. The sample consisted of 32 boys with a mean age of 12.69 ± 5.09 years. The mean lean mass of the population was 21 ± 4.74%, and the most prevalent Vignos score was 9. The mean EDIP-SP was -0.38 ± 0.20, indicating a diet considered anti-inflammatory. However, EDIP-SP and daily energy intake showed no significant association with inflammatory biomarker concentrations in boys with DMD. These findings suggest the need for specific adaptations of assessment tools to the regional context, as they highlight the diversity of inflammatory response to dietary patterns. Although no associations were identified between inflammatory cytokines and EDIP-SP, the results provide valuable insights for the literature, considering the progressive decline in muscle tissue with age and elevated serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines

The Food Guide for the Brazilian Population (FGBP) brings an expanded paradigm of healthy eating to guide healthy eating practices, respecting the diversity of Brazilian food culture. Adherence to the FGBP scale analyzes adherence to the guide's recommendations, including markers related to the type of food processing (NOVA Classification) and dietary practices divided into four dimensions: choice of foods, ways of eating, planning and family organization. Considering the worsening of social inequality indicators in recent years in Brazil, understanding which sociodemographic aspects are associated with the adherence of adults and the older adults to FGBP recommendations is a challenge. The aim was to analyze adherence to the FGBP recommendations by the participants of the BRAZUCA (Brazilian Usual Consumption Assessment) Natal Study, considering sociodemographic aspects. It is a cross-sectional survey, with 411 adults and older adults in the city of Natal Brazil, selected from a probabilistic cluster sample, in two stages (census tracts and households). An electronic questionnaire on the Epicollect 5 digital platform was applied to data collection. It was containing sociodemographic data and a multidimensional scale to measure adherence to dietary practices recommended by the FGBP. The scale consists of 24 questions, following a Likert scale (I totally disagree; I disagree; I agree; I totally agree). The final score can range from 0 to 72. It classified as low and medium adherence (<41 points) or high adherence to the FGBP (>=41 points). The prevalence ratio (PR) and respective 95% confidence interval used to verify the association, and the analysis was adjusted using Poisson Regression with a robust estimator. We observed high adherence to the FGBP in 46.7% (42.1%-51.3%) of the population, with a mean score of 40.5 (SD 7.9). We verify a significant association for females (PR= 1 .27; 95% CI 1.03-1.55) and the older adults (PR=1.46; 95% CI 1.19-1.79). The individuals who declared a monthly per capita income of less than one minimum wage were less likely to of high adherence to FGBP recommendations and being worse for those with income ≤1/4 minimum wage (PR=0.47; 95%CI 0.32-0.68). We conclude that being female and being older adult are conditions that predict greater adherence to FGBP. People who having low per capita income have lower adherence to the FGBP. It is necessary to establish policies that reduce social inequalities. In addition, it is essential to high access to food practices aligned with FGBP among adults and the older adults in Natal, Brazil.

Hyperglycemia is important in the development and maintenance of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in overweight individuals and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and complications resulting from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nutrients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action can interact with the genome, modulating its expression, resulting in alterations in the phenotype and the risk markers for chronic diseases. This interaction allows the modulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression, which are important for the regulation of several physiological or pathological processes, such as hyperglycemia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify miRNA differentially expressed in overweight women with hyperglycemia and its association with inflammatory biomarkers and plasma micronutrients. This is a cross-sectional comparative study derived from a study with 72 women between 18 and 60 years old and BMI ≥ 25.0kg/m². In plasma samples, zinc, selenium, and manganese concentrations were evaluated, as well as fasting glucose, insulin, miRNA expression, inflammatory biomarkers, and leptin. Insulin resistance was assessed by calculating the HOMA-IR and HOMA-β indices. Most participants did not have hyperglycemia (68.1%). miR-29a-3p, miR-150-5p, and miR-548c-5p were upregulated in hyperglycemic women compared to normoglycemic. A positive correlation was observed between miR-150-5p expression and IL-10 (rho=0.348; p=0.030) and a negative correlation with leptin (rho=-0.331; p=0.040), as well as a negative correlation between miR-548c-5p and HOMA-IR (rho=-0.424; p=0.022) and HOMA-β (rho=-0.463; p=0.011) in normoglycemic women. miR-29a-3p and miR-548c-5p were positively associated with hyperglycemia (OR=2.34; p=0.024 and OR=109.71; p=0.016, respectively). No differences were identified for zinc, selenium, and manganese concentrations in plasma between women with and without hyperglycemia, as well as correlations between these micronutrients and upregulated miRNAs. Pathway enrichment analysis of target genes identified that these miRNAs are potentially related to glycemic metabolism, the pathophysiology of hyperglycemia, and diabetes, or complications of the disease. Given this, it is understood that these miRNAs have the potential to be used as biomarkers of hyperglycemia and its complications, in addition to being involved in the activation of inflammatory pathways in these patients. Furthermore, the results of this study suggest that the micronutrients zinc, selenium, and manganese do not seem to be related to the expression of these miRNAs.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has several stages, from the deposition of lipids in the hepatic parenchyma to cases of hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In situations of liver injury, there is an increase in the concentrations of liver transaminases, especially alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Inadequate food intake has been considered one of the causal factors for the development and progression of this disease. In this context, currently, fructose, especially from unnatural sources, has been studied as an independent causal factor in the development of NAFLD and unfavorable metabolic outcomes. Thus, the objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between fructose consumption according to its origin, based on the type of food processing, with liver markers and metabolic parameters in overweight adolescents. This is a cross-sectional study with adolescents aged 10 to 19 years old, diagnosed with overweight or obesity. Anthropometric data (height, weight and waist circumference), biochemical data (lipid profile, glucose profile and concentrations of ALT, AST, GGT and alkaline phosphatase) were collected, and two 24-hour recalls were applied to analyze food consumption. Habitual food consumption was estimated using the Multiple Source Method (MSM). To quantify the fructose consumed, the foods present in the recall were matched with those present in the Food Standards Australia New Zealand. Soon after, the foods were classified according to the food groups of the NOVA classification, according to their type of processing. With this, the amount of fructose from each food group was calculated. The foods were then divided into two groups, according to the origin of the fructose: natural (in natura and minimally processed foods) or added (processed and ultra-processed foods). In data analysis, descriptive statistics procedures of mean and standard deviation and mean confidence interval were used for quantitative variables and frequency distribution and their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for categorical variables. To identify possible differences in the profile of adolescents, the chi-square test was applied for categorical variables and the Student's “t” test or Anova for comparison of means. To verify the association between fructose consumption and the nutritional and metabolic profile, linear regression analyzes were performed for continuous variables and logistic regression for categorical variables. All statistical tests were considered at a significance level of 95% (p <0.05). In the population, 91 were boys and 83 were girls, in which we found changes to ALT in 55.1% of boys and 44.9% of girls; for TG, in 51.3% in boys and 48.7% in girls and in HDL-c, 56% in boys and 44% in girls with values below the recommended level. Boys had a higher level of physical activity (p=0.032), higher caloric intake from the diet (p=0.011), higher serum AST (p=0.003) and phosphatase (p<0.001). The foods that most contributed to the average amount of fructose were açaí, in the natural fructose group, and soft drinks in the added fructose group. The consumption of added fructose showed an association with an increase in TG values, in which added fructose was associated with a greater risk of an increase in triglycerides (B= 1,546; 95%CI: 2,144), being up to 54.6%, regardless of of the fit. There was no association in the other variables. Thus, it is evident that the consumption of added fructose from the processed and ultra-processed food groups was related to an increase in TG concentrations in overweight adolescents, however, no association was found with changes in ALT concentrations.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders in the world, with a growing search for natural, safe and effective therapeutic agents, especially food peptides. Through bioinformatics tools, this search can be optimized by in silico analysis of interaction mechanisms between molecules. This work aimed to study in silico therapeutic targets for glycemic control. First, the systematic review (SR) protocol was developed following the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items Checklist for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P), registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022353808) and published. In the SR, studies that met the PECo strategy (Problem, Exposure, Context) were included. The databases used were: Medline (PubMed); Web of Science; Scopus; Base; ScienceDirect; Virtual Health Library (VHL). A total of 1878 articles were identified, including 20 articles referring to original in silico studies that used therapeutic targets for the treatment of DM and that validated the use of these targets in vivo. The risk of bias was assessed using a checklist based on Strengthening the reporting of empirical simulation studies (STRESS). It was observed that DPP-IV, PPARγ and GLUT4 were the most frequently used therapeutic targets in the studies included in the SR. Also through in vivo studies, the validation of the previously mentioned therapeutic targets was verified, in addition to Akt, GLP-1, α-amylase, GIP, IRS1 and GSK-3, analyzed in silico, the importance of computational simulation was verified as a useful tool in tracking and prior selection. For the in silico study, the tamarind seed trypsin inhibitor (ITT) was obtained by trypsin-sepharose 4B-CNBr affinity chromatography and characterized by antitryptic activity, protein quantification and SDS-PAGE gel. The ITT was hydrolyzed in vitro to monitor enzymatic susceptibility and selection of enzymes for cleavage in silico, using the protocol adapted from INFOGEST, simulating the three stages of digestion and monitoring the hydrolysis pattern by SDS-PAGE gel. Based on this information, the theoretical model of the purified tamarind seed trypsin inhibitor (TTIp 56/287) was cleaved in silico, being selected for simulation by molecular dynamics, Peptideotripquimo59 for presenting greater potential for interaction with the insulin receptor (IR) (PDB ID 4OGA), with a docking score of -175,53. Peptideotripquimo59 showed affinity and stability in complex with the IR reaching equilibrium at the beginning of the simulation. In addition, the amino acid residues Arginine at position 16 (-209.07 kJ mol-1), Threonine at position 1 (-148.54 kJ mol-1) and Valine at position 2 (-94.53 kJ mol-1) were identified. -1) as the ones that most interacted, with this site of interaction with the IR being in a different region compared to that of insulin. Through SR, the diversity of targets that can be used for the treatment of DM were analyzed in silico and validated in vivo, contributing to the discovery of new allies for the treatment of DM. In addition, Peptideotripchymo59 proved to be an insulin mimetic molecule, and may act as a possible candidate for the treatment of type 1 and 2 DM.

In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, and the closure of universities as a measure to prevent contamination directly affected academic communities. Access to food, though a basic need and a human right, was seriously affected. This study evaluated the locations and frequency of food acquisition; hand, food, and packaging hygiene habits; and household waste generation in an academic community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research was cross-sectional and performed through an online questionnaire. Data (n = 1472) were analyzed using descriptive statistics; statistical tests were also applied, and p values 0.01 were considered significant. Most of the population continued to purchase food in supermarkets (89.5%). The frequency of product orders from markets by delivery placed by professors and graduate students was also verified (31.7% and 24.2%). There was an increase in packaging hygiene in the studied population, as well as in fruit and vegetable hygiene; however, use of inappropriate methods was noted. This paper highlights important data on the behavior of an academic community dealing with the problem of solid waste generation during the pandemic. Moreover, there were no changes in waste generation during the pandemic, although there was an increase in packaging consumption (44%). Identifying the behavior of the university community regarding hygiene and food acquisition can help societies from the perspective of transforming habits related to food. Therefore, this research provides support for future investigations and interventions in the field of foods and post-pandemic sustainability.

Cancer is one of the main causes of death in most countries, and in Brazil the context is similar. Estimates indicate that there will be approximately 704,000 new cases of cancer per year in Brazil for each three-year period 2023-2025. Of these, colorectal cancer (CRC) stands out with its high incidence. In addition to the diagnosis of cancer, the presence of comorbidities can impact the body composition and prognosis of these patients. Thus, knowing these characteristics is necessary to carry out interventions that will improve the quality and survival of this population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the association of the Charlson`s comorbidity index adjusted to age (A-CCI) with body composition and overall survival of patients newly diagnosed with CRC. This is a multicenter longitudinal study, which evaluated patients of both sexes, adults and elderly with a recent diagnosis of CRC. Computed tomography (CT) images of the abdominal region were analyzed to determine body composition: skeletal muscle mass area (SMA), skeletal muscle index (SMI), skeletal muscle radiodensity (SMD), visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Comorbidities were recorded and scored. A total of 436 participants were included in the study, 50% male, the majority (58.3%) non-Caucasian and with a median age of 61 years, approximately half of the patients (50.4%) had no comorbidity, and among those who did, the most prevalent were the presence of solid metastatic tumor (24.1%), followed by uncomplicated diabetes mellitus (16.1%), kidney disease (2.3%) and asthma (2.3%). As for the A-CCI score, the median score was 4 (3;6). Significant and negative correlation between A-CCI and SMD was observed (r = -0.234, p < 0.001). COX regression results after adjusting for confounding variables indicated that patients with a high A-ICC and low SMD had a higher risk of 36-month mortality (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.8 – 2.18), while the phenotypes “low A-CCI and high SMD” and “low A-CCI and low VAT” were associated with lower risk of 36-months mortality. our findings indicate an association between SMD, VAT and comorbidity burden in patients with CRC, and the association these characteristics may increase the mortality risk.   In conclusion, our findings indicate an association of SMD and comorbid burden, and the association between high A-CCI and low SMD increased mortality risk.

Despite the negative impact of consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) on health already being widely reported in the literature, there is still there little evidence on the consequences of maternal UPF consumption on the postnatal health of their offspring during lactation. Given this gap, the objective of this study was to evaluate the association between maternal UPF consumption, feeding practices and malnutrition of their infants. This is a cross-sectional study carried out with 111 mother-child pairs up to 150 days postpartum, assisted in the growth and development monitoring program of the primary health care in Natal-RN. Feeding practices related to breastfeeding were evaluated using six indicators. Malnutrition were assessed by weight-for-age z-score (WAZ), length-for-age (LAZ) and BMI-for-age (BMIZ), according to the WHO growth charts. Maternal consumption was obtained using two 24-hour recalls and foods were categorized according to the NOVA classification. The binomial was grouped according to the highest quartile of energy participation of maternal UPF consumption (<Percentile 75, named Q1-3 and ≥ Percentile 75, named Q4). Binary logistic regression models adjusted for the variables income, maternal education, exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), birth weight and length, were used to estimate the association between maternal UPF consumption, inappropriate feeding practices and malnutrition according to WAZ, LAZ and IMCZ. The women were 28 years old, 36% had not completed high school, most were on the poverty line (66.7%, n=74) and the participation of UPF in the maternal diet was 26.24% (0-44 CI 95%). The infants had an average of 61 days old, 72.8% were on EBF at the time of the interview and only 58.6% had received colostrum milk. One third of the infants were overweight (BMIZ) and 11.7% were stunting (LAZ), with a significant association being found between the highest quartile of UPF participation in the maternal diet and the chance of presenting some malnutrition in the infant (wasting or overweight) (OR 3.38 95%CI: 1.29 - 8.83) and stunting (OR 3.89; 95%CI 1.04 – 14.58). However, there was no association with feeding practices. The findings demonstrate that UPF consumption during lactation is associated with malnutrition in breastfed infants, reinforcing the health risks that UPF consumption may cause during lactation. These results also highlight the need for greater attention to nutritional assistance during lactation, since the impacts on growth during lactation and early childhood can induce long-term effects, including failures in growth and development of NCD in adulthood.

Salmon pulp melons are sources of vitamins, minerals, and bioactives. Internal and external factors can affect the chemical composition, which needs to be investigated comprehensively, as these data are still scarce in the literature. On the other hand, fresh melon has high water content and low acidity, so drying extends shelf life and adds value to the production chain. The study aimed to investigate the influence of the fruit harvest period on the chemical composition of melon flours and the potential application in bakery products. Flours of salmon-fleshed melon varieties (Cantaloupe, Charentais, Honey Dew) were obtained, purchased during the harvest period (September to March) and off-season (April to August), through drying in a ventilated oven (55 ̊C/24 h ). The flours were evaluated for granulometry, morphology by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), centesimal composition, the content of total phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, fatty acid profile, and technological properties. Three cake formulations containing Cantaloupe melon flour were developed from the replacement of wheat flour in different proportions (0, 25 and 50%), being evaluated for microbiological standards, centesimal composition, and sensory evaluation using the Hedonic Scale, Purchase Intent, and Just About Right Scale. The results showed that most of the evaluated flours were fine (MESH >16). It was verified in the chemical composition that, only for the humidity, there was a homogeneous influence of the harvest period since all the flours of the off-season presented high contents (15 to 19%) compared to those of the harvest (17 to 22%) (p < 0. 05), which may be directly related to the climatic conditions in the place of cultivation. For total phenolic compounds, it was observed that the Cantaloupe melon flours both in the harvest period (208.10 mg/100 g) and off-season (877 mg/100 g) stood out (p < 0.05). In addition, FCE had the highest antioxidant potential (328 µmol TE/g). Palmitic, linoleic, and linolenic acid showed higher concentrations in melon flours in harvest and off-season. Regarding the technological properties, it was verified that the cultivation period influenced each variety in the swelling power, solubility in water, and oil absorption. In the chemical composition of the different cakes produced, it was observed that the ash, protein, lipid, and fiber contents increased due to the increase in melon pulp flour in the product, promoting an improvement in the nutritional value. Among the evaluated sensory attributes (color, sweet smell, sweet taste, and moisture), the most penalized were the sweet taste and moisture, ranging from less intense and less humid than the ideal in the standard to more intense and more humid than the ideal in the cake containing 50% melon flour. Despite this, cakes containing melon flour had an acceptance rate above 70% and did not differ from the standard. Most consumers would possibly buy melon flour products, demonstrating that they would be willing to adapt to the penalized sensory attributes.

Lead (Pb) is one the 10 chemicals of major public health concern listed by World Health Organization, being associated with toxicity in all organs. One reason for Pb occurrence in food are agricultural practices, for instance, when pesticides containing Pb are used. In this context, organic production systems are highlighted for not using pesticides. Considering that, this systematic review (SR) and metaanalysis was conducted aiming to investigate if there are differences in Pb levels in organic (OLV) and conventional leafy vegetables (CLV). This SR’s protocol was registered on the PROSPERO platform (CRD42022306048) and based on the PRISMA-P 2015 and its checklist. PECOS was used as a guiding acronym of the present study and of its eligibility criteria, referring to the population (OLV), exposure (Pb levels), comparator (CLV), outcomes (Pb levels in OLV and CLV, and secondary outcomes), and study type (studies reporting primary data). Thus, only analytical, cross-sectional studies which reported data on the analysis of Pb in OLV and CLV were been included. Searches were run on the electronic databases GRICultural OnLine Access (AGRICOLA), CAB Direct, Embase, Food Science and Technology Abstracts (FSTA/EBSCO), GALE Academic OneFile, Google Scholar, International System for Agricultural Science and Technology (AGRIS), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences (LILACS), Medline (OVID), ScienceDirect (Elsevier), Scopus, e Web of Science, besides manual searches in articles, directory and archives of thesis and dissertations. No restriction was applied regarding language or publication period. A total of 3,742 registers were imported into the application Rayyan Intelligent Systematic Review. The study selection was conducted by two independent researchers, and conflicting decisions were solved by a third researcher. Revman was the software used for the meta-analyses, and the risk of bias was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist for studies reporting prevalence data. GRADE was used for assessing the quality of scientific evidence. After the selection stages, 24 studies were included, of which 22 (91.67%) presented low risk of bias, while two (8.33%) presented medium risk, and none presented high risk. Considering the results reported in dry weight, the mean difference (MD) of the Pb level of 0.22 mg/kg higher in OLV was not significant (p=0.26), being classified as evidence of ‘low certainty’. As for the results reported in fresh weight, the MD of 0.01 mg/kg lower in OLV was significant (p=0.008), being classified as evidence of ‘moderate certainty’, thus answering this SR’s question in favor of OLV. The most frequent vegetables were lettuce, cabbage, spinach and celery. The most frequent analytical methods were inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). Four studies (16.67%) presented Pb levels above the maximum limits for at least one sample. Some of the main limitations observed were studies’ non-reporting of Pb detection and quantification limits, nor presenting results in fresh weight.

Background: Populations are constantly exposed simultaneously to essential and toxic elements. The excess or deficiency of these substances can affect several metabolic functions such as glycemic control and lipid profile. Elderly people have a progressive deficiency in the ability to detoxify by the elements, and at the same time, are susceptible to dyslipidemia and changes in glycemic control.

Aim: to evaluate the association of the mixture of essential and toxic elements in the plasma of institutionalized elderly people and to test the associations with the variables of glycemic control and lipid profile.

Methods: The present cross-sectional study consisted of 149 elderly people living in public and private nursing homes in the city of Natal/RN. Six essential elements (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Se and Zn) and ten toxic elements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Hg, Li, Ni, Pb, Rb and Sr) defined the composition of the mixture, which were evaluated in the plasma by mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was used to estimate potential interactions between elements and test associations with blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c), and triglycerides. The model was adjusted using the Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) method using a Gibbs/MetropolisHastings hybrid MCMC algorithm. The covariates gender, age, type of LTCF, race/color, BMI, smoking, alcoholism, and number of comorbidities were used to adjust the model.

Results: The population of elderly people was mostly (60%) ≥ 80 years old. The highest values of the probability of a posteriori inclusion of the groups (PIP) were observed regarding the effect of Fe on total cholesterol (PIP = 0.4192); and of Ba (PIP = 0.6802), Cu (0.3970) and Fe (0.3490) on triglycerides. The responses to exposure in the univariate analysis were approximately linear, except for Fe. No association was observed after fixation of all metals in a specific percentile (25º, 50º, or 75º). The mixture of the elements was negatively associated with total and LDL cholesterol at concentrations below the 40th and 30th percentiles. No association was detected between the mixture of the elements and the parameters of glycemic control.

Conclusion: the mixture of the elements, in lower concentration, was negatively associated with total cholesterol and LDL. Fe played a crucial role in the outcome of total cholesterol. These results suggest that lower co-exposure to a mixture of essential and toxic elements indicated a lower risk of increasing total cholesterol and LDL-c in the study population.

Evidence indicates that low concentrations of magnesium concomitant with high concentrations of calcium lead to a higher calcium/magnesium ratio (Ca/Mg), whose results have been associated with cardiometabolic risk factors related to Metabolic Syndrome (MS). This study aimed to evaluate the associations between magnesium, calcium and the Ca/Mg ratio in plasma with MS components and other cardiometabolic risk factors, in adults and elderly people with and without MS. This is a cross-sectional study, carried out with participants in the BRAZUCA-Natal Study. Sociobiodemographic data, lifestyle, anthropometric and biochemical parameters were evaluated. Magnesium and calcium concentrations were measured in plasma using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A total of 112 participants evaluated for the diagnosis of MS were included, according to the harmonized criteria for MS, and distributed into groups of individuals with and without MS. Linear regression models were run using the hierarchical method to determine associations between elements and other variables. MS was identified in 50% of the population, especially in female participants. There were no significant differences in plasma magnesium and calcium concentrations and Ca/Mg ratio between the studied groups (all p > 0.05). Mean values of magnesium and calcium concentrations in both groups were considered within reference values. However, a frequency of hypomagnesemia of 13.4% was observed, while excess plasma calcium was 16% in the studied population. No correlation was recorded between plasma magnesium and any of the studied cardiometabolic variables (all p>0.05). Calcium concentrations were negatively correlated with HDL-c (r= -0.335; p = 0.000), TAG (r= -0.294; p = 0.002), total cholesterol (r= -0.554; p = 0.000), LDL- c (r= -0.310; p = 0.001) and not HDL-c (r= -0.385; p = 0.000). On the other hand, the calcium/magnesium ratio was also negatively correlated with HDL-c (r= -0.260; p = 0.007), TAG (r= -0.336; p= 0.000), total cholesterol (r= -0.508; p = 0.000), LDL-c (r= - 0.314; p = 0.001), VLDL-c (r= -0.231; p= 0.018), non-HDL-c (r= -0.413; p= 0.000) and combined lipoprotein index (LCI) (r= -0.215; p= 0.028). Linear regression analyses indicated no associations between magnesium and fasting insulin, HOMAIR and hs-CRP (all p>0.05). However, there were associations between plasma calcium and total cholesterol (β= -0.020; p=0.000; R²=0.238), HDL-c (β=-0.046; p=0.005; R²= 0.267). There were also associations between the calcium/magnesium ratio and total cholesterol (β= -0.025; p=0.000; R²= 0.184) and LDL-c (β=0.017; p=0.020; R²= 0.231). These results was indicate no difference in the concentrations of the elements between the groups, however, important associations of calcium and the Ca/Mg ratio with the risk factors related to MS were evidenced.

Amid the current scenario of food production and consumption and its socioeconomic, environmental, and public health repercussions, the potential of Brazilian school feeding and public food purchases to induce changes in food systems through public actions and policies that favor sustainable development. Recently, the “Public Call” purchase modality was instituted and opened spaces for family farming in institutional purchases in the country. However, there is still a need for analyzes and adjustments that allow for better implementation of its policies, which show points for improvement and reflection on the intrinsic conditions of production and marketing that encompass these farmers. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate public purchases of foodstuffs from family farming for school meals in the Federal Institutes of Education, Science and Technology of Rio Grande do Norte (IFRN). A documentary analysis of the Public Call notices of the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) and Food Acquisition Program, modality Institutional Purchase (PAA-CI) was carried out, considering the following analysis criteria: financial investment, between the years 2012 to 2020; for the characterization of family farmers, evaluation of food homologated on the public calls and food processing classification, it was considered the year of 2020. Public Calls from 15 campuses distributed among the 11 immediate regions of the State of Rio Grande do Norte were studied. The results revealed a financial investment for the food purchase from family farming ≥ 30% on most campuses evaluated since the insertion of the PNAE and PAA-CI in the IFRN, even with decreases in recent years. Related to the characterization of family farmers, in their form of organization, the majority (56.25%) were grouped (formally or informally), with priority given to the supply of fruit, however, few (6.25%) were characterized as agroecological producers. Among the homologated foods, “fruits” and “foods with limited supply” (mainly cakes and dairy drinks) were the most frequent, and of the 5.2% not homologated, 63.6%were due to the non-presenting  a food sample for sanitary control and 36.4% due to the absence of proposals to supply the products contained in the public notice. Of the total of the foods listed in the calls, 83.06% were in natura or minimally processed. However, processed and ultra-processed foods were present, requested above 25% in some regions. This study contributed to understanding the context of the participation of family farmers within the institutional market of public purchases of the federal institutes of RN, evidencing gaps in such processes, being able to act beyond the guarantee of food supply in public facilities, due to the relevance of the food and nutrition and family farming policies as environmental, nutritional, social and economic protection networks, promoting food and nutrition security.

Changes in food security levels can reflect on losses in functional mobility and muscle strength, and consequently, quality of life. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of the occurrence of Food Insecurity (FI) with Functional Mobility and health and nutrition conditions in older people. It is a cross-sectional study carried out on three continents and nested within the International Mobility in Aging Study (IMIAS) cohort. Data were obtained from the collection carried out in the third wave in 2016 at five cities: Kingston and St. Hyacinthe, in Canada (North America); Tirana in Albania (Europe), Manizales in Colombia, and Natal in Brazil (South America), totaling 1506 older people. To verify the occurrence of FI at home, we used the Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale (ELCSA), and to assess functional mobility, the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). The independent variables were: muscle strength, measured with a manual dynamometer; the anthropometric nutritional status, verified by the Body Mass Index (BMI); and multimorbidity when the person had two or more non-communicable chronic diseases. The results showed that up to 30% of the population had some degree of FI at home, and more frequent in underdeveloped countries. Older people with food insecurity at home had lower scores in all stages of the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and a higher proportion of older people with restricted mobility (PR=1.66; 95%CI 1.30;2.11). The occurrence of FI at home and limited mobility were more frequent among the oldest old (>75 years) and among women, and higher frequencies occurred in the cities of Tirana, Manizales, and Natal (in descending order). More than half of the evaluated population was overweight/obese and had multimorbidity. The overweight/obesity, multimorbidity, and reduced muscle strength were associated with reduced mobility, but they were not associated with FI at home. In conclusion, the cities located in Albania, Colombia, and Brazil were the highest occurrences of FI at home. Reduced mobility was positively associated with food insecurity at home, overweight/obesity, multimorbidity, and reduced muscle strength.

The disease, disease by the population- of the new coronavirus, called the disease of the daily activities of the population, due to social distance to stop the advance In Brazil, one of the measures for the suspension of classes, with possible impacts on universities, on life habits of a vast contingent that form the academic community. This study aimed to investigate the food pandemic in the academic community of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). It is a cross-sectional collection through an online study from 20 to February 2021 with undergraduate students, postgraduate students, administrative technical servers and professors. The content already variable socioeconomic and Brazilian Food Security Scale (EBIA validated. The average of participants was 27 years old, most were female (65.7%) and 30.2% had income between 1 to 3 years of age between 1 to 3 years. Feeding was higher4,4 the feeding groups with higher40% feeding36% feeding1.5% feeding,5% feeding. OR greater reduction in food incomes during the pandemic or greater reduction in food chances during the pandemic. Thus, the study of knowledge has a significant importance for undergraduate students in the academic community, especially training and graduate students. Therefore, this population must be prioritized in public policies that meet the needs of this vulnerable condition.

Negative repercussions caused by current food systems highlight the urgency of adopting healthier and more sustainable diets. The analysis of environmental impacts from populations’ diet and eating practices can help identify solutions to achieve sustainable food, considering the environmental, social, and economic dimensions. This work aims to estimate the environmental footprints of food consumption (EFF) of people living in Natal/RN and their associations with sociodemographic characteristics, food purchase practices, and adherence to the recommendations of the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population (FGPB). Data from 411 people aged ≥20 years from the BRAZUCA Natal Study were used. Food consumption data were assessed through a Propensity Questionnaire (PQ), where the frequency of consumption of food groups was evaluated. The EFF (Water Footprint - WF, Carbon Footprint - CF, and Ecological Footprint - EF) were estimated considering standardization of 1,000 kcal/day. The relationship between socioeconomic and demographic data, food purchase practices, and FGPB adherence with EFF was investigated. To verify the difference in EFF values between categories of a variable, the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis U tests were performed. EFF was divided into tertiles (Low, Medium, and High) to assess association with other variables using Correspondence Analysis. The estimated per capita value of CF, WF and EF was 2,126.94 g CO2eq/person/day/1,000 kcal, 2,078.09 L/person/day/1,000 kcal and 15.78 m2/person/day/1,000 kcal, respectively. Meat was the food that most contributed to all three EFF, with emphasis on red meat (CF and WF) and fish (EF). The highest values of CF and WF were observed in adults, male, Caucasian, with higher per capita family income, and higher education, who had more meals in cafeterias, consumed more fast food, and used more food delivery services. Lower EFF values were observed in elderly, female, non-Caucasian, with lower per capita family income, and lower education, who had fewer meals in cafeterias, consumed less fast food, and used food delivery services less. People with the highest EFF consumed more red meat, dairy products, and ultra-processed products, while those with the lowest EFF consumed more chicken, bread, sugar, couscous, and tapioca. The findings indicate that better dietary practices were associated with lower EFF, however; it is important to highlight the relationship between lower EFF and aspects of the population’s socioeconomic vulnerability. Recognizing these relationships enables the adoption of individual and collective actions aimed at promoting healthier and more sustainable diets for all.

Obesity is a multifactorial condition, and it is currently one of the main public health issues. Studies involving lipidomic point to an association between obesity and dysfunction of lipid metabolism, and the consequent development of associated metabolic diseases. This study aims to evaluate the lipidomic profile and cardiometabolic risk factors of adults and elderly subjects with and without obesity. This is a cross-sectional study, part of a larger study called “Food insecurity, health and nutrition in adults and elderly persons in a city of Northeast in Brazil: Natal BRAZUCA Study”, a population-based study, carried out with adults and elderly residents in Natal/RN. The sample consisted of 72 individuals matched by sex and age in two groups, with and without obesity (n=36 each). The following data were collected: sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, presence of chronic noncommunicable diseases, energy intake, total fat, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fatty acids, anthropometric measurements (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference), visceral adiposity index and blood pressure. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis (lipid, glycemic and inflammatory profiles) and  lipidomic analysis, which was performed in plasma using the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique. It was identified that 73.6% of the individuals had dyslipidemia and the average intake of saturated fatty acids was higher than desired (>7%) while the intake of monounsaturated fatty acids was below the target (15%). It was observed that 72.2% of the participants with obesity had metabolic syndrome (p=0.004), higher waist circumference (p<0.001), visceral adiposity index (p=0.029), HOMA-IR (p=0.010) and triglycerides (TAG) (p=0.018), compared to the group of nonobese individuals. Diffusion-edited 1H-NMR spectra indicate characteristic peaks for low and medium polarity lipids, mostly attributed to triacylglycerols of saturated fatty acids and, in a smaller amount, unsaturated fatty acids groups (-CH=CH-). Using the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis model (OLPS-DA), a behavior with more dispersions of lipid metabolites was observed in the group of obese individuals. Among the lipids with the highest values of variables importance projection (VIP), only six metabolites had lower concentrations among individuals in the obese group, namely phosphatidylcholines, saturated and unsaturated fatty acid residues. A lower amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids was also observed in the lipid profile of the obese group. These findings point to changes in the lipidomic profile of obese individuals, suggesting that lipid species may be potential biomarkers to early identify individuals at risk of presenting obesity-induced metabolic complications.

Metabolomics is applied to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms of several diseases, such as diabetes. The metabolomic profile is obtained from biological samples, with urine being preferred due to reliability and ease of obtaining. Improving strategies to discriminate between normal and pathological metabolites of certain diseases is essential for the clinical application of metabolomics. The study's objective was to characterize the population formed by individuals with glycemic alterations and to test the feasibility of using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance as a spectroscopic method for analyzing metabolomics in urine. The study population was divided into three groups: DM2 Group - patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2); the PDM Group - patients with prediabetes (PDM); and the control group (C) formed by healthy individuals. Participants were characterized by demographic, clinical, lifestyle, anthropometric, diet, glycemic, and lipid profiles. The 24h urine spectra were acquired from NMR, and later, the data were analyzed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA), followed by unsupervised analysis. A series of algorithms were tested to verify which model had better accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The fasting glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR values of the T2DM and PDM groups were significantly different from the control. In addition, the PDM and DM groups had high waist circumference values. Diet composition did not differ between groups and was adequate in terms of the proportion of macronutrients and inadequate in total fiber. The set of signals from the metabolites based on the chemical shifts (peaks) obtained resulted in identifying 21 distinct regions of metabolites, among which glycine, urea, glucose, acetate, citrate, and creatinine stand out. Four showed a significant difference in the following ppm ranges (3.27, 3.37, 3.5.9, 3.75, and 9.29). APC scores showed partial separation between groups. The GA-LDA model was the most responsive algorithm for the discrimination of the urine of the groups in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.

The search for plant-based probiotic products aiming to replace dairies have been growing in recent years, especially due to the increasing number of lactose intolerant individuals and population’s concern about well-being and quality of life. In this context, the present project aimed to elaborate and evaluate fermented and
unfermented symbiotic yellow mombin (Spondias mombin L.) beverages added with fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NRRL B-4496 for probiotic, physicochemical and bioactive stability during 28 days of refrigerated storage at 4 °C. Six formulations were prepared for analysis: standard mombin juice (PAD), prebiotic juice (PREB), unfermented symbiotic juice (SIM), fermented symbiotic juice (SIMF), unfermented symbiotic juice with pH adjusted to 4.5 (SIMA) and fermented symbiotic juice with pH adjusted to 4.5 (SIMFA). Samples stored at 4 °C were analyzed for viable cell counts, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids (TTS), total phenolic compounds (TPC) and antioxidant activity by DPPH scavenging activity on storage days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Results showed viable counts of 9.0 (1.0) log UFC/mL and 9.0 (2.3) log UFC/mL with 21 days of storage for SIMF and SIMA, respectively. In addition, SIMFA showed a value of 8.2 (0.1) log UFC/mL by the end of the 28 days period. All formulations showed a slight decrease in pH values by 28 days in relation to the star of the storage, reaching 2,2 to 2,5 for the unadjusted formulations and 4,3 to 4,8 for the adjusted ones. Titratable acidity and TSS parameters showed minor alterations during storage. TPC showed variations in all formulations, staying between 234 and 431 mg GAE/L. Moreover, antioxidant activity was kept stable in PREB, SIMF, SIMA and SIMFA, presenting a slight growth in SIM and significant decrease in PAD. Evaluation of overall acceptance and purchase intent for PREB, SIMF and SIMA was conducted with 91 untrained panelists. Both PREB and SIMF received high acceptability indexes of 78,14 and 75,46%, respectively, and panelists considered the excess of acidity and lack of sweet taste as the most important characteristics for improvement. Through observation of the obtained results, it is possible to consider yellow mombin juice fortified with FOS as a viable matrix for the inoculation L. plantarum, keeping stable counts for symbiotic formulations and reaching good acceptance.

Obesity is characterized by a mass expansion of adipose tissue and changes in its body distribution, associated with a chronic increase in circulating concentrations of inflammatory mediators. Anti-inflammatory agents are presented as an alternative treatment for obesity, being tested in animal and human models. However, the lack of effective agents points to the need to assess the mechanisms and identify more effective therapeutic targets. This study aimed to gather similar studies published in the literature through a systematic review, aiming to answer the following question: "What are the mechanisms of action of anti-inflammatory agents in adipose tissue?". In addition to evaluating through evidence in a secondary study, new treatment pathways focused on inflammation and common in obesity and its conformities. Initially, a protocol for obtaining a systematic review was prepared and registered in the International Prospective Registry of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), aiming at guiding the secondary study. In this way, were used select report items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) to outline the protocol and PRISMA for systematic review and meta-analysis. The articles were selected according to eligibility criteria based on the PICOS (population, interventions, control, results, and study type). The databases used for the research were PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, BVS, and EMBASE. Experimental studies using rats and mice with a control group that described treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs (drugs, nutraceuticals, bioactive compounds, among others) were included at any frequency, time, and dose. Three independent reviewers selected the articles and extracted the data. The evaluation of the methodological quality of each survey was carried out using the SYRCLE tool. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO under the number: CRD42020182897 and published in a scientific journal. Initially, 1263 articles were selected, and at the end of the search, 27 were eligible for review. Among the anti-inflammatory agents, identified six drugs, 18 natural compounds, and three synthetic compounds. Given the studies, it can be inferred that a large part of the bioactive compounds, drugs, and synthetic compounds act in metabolic pathways that culminate, mainly, in the expression of inflammatory cytokines reduction, which favors an infiltration of macrophages reduction in white and adipose tissue. Besides, cause a polarization process of type M1 to M2 macrophages. It can be noted that innumerable inflammatory pathways overlap to explain the mechanism of action of these natural and synthetic compounds and drugs. Given the heterogeneity of the data, there was no grouping, and it was not possible to carry out the meta-analysis. Thus, the article clarifies and systematizes the mechanisms of these compounds and drugs in adipose tissue, being of great relevance and generating information for possible future research on these pathways, aiming at the most effective treatment of inflammation in obesity.

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common tumor of the endocrine system. Dietary factors may have benefits in decreasing the risk of TC or its severity. The study aimed to evaluate the association between food and dietary intake, inflammatory and dietary index and histopathological tumor staging (angiolymphatic invasion, thyroid extension, lymph node metastasis and multicentricity) of patients with thyroid cancer in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. This is a cross-sectional study that included 98 individuals assisted by the League Against Cancer, who underwent total or partial thyroidectomy for suspected malignant thyroid neoplasm. To assess food and dietary intake and the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), the 24-hour recall (24hR) collected in three moments was applied. The analysis and cytological and histopathological classifications of the tumors were performed at the Pathology Laboratory of Hospital Luiz Antônio (HLA) by pathologists. Student's t, Mann–Whitney, Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and Binary Logistic Regression tests were used when appropriate. Patients were classified as: benign (n=25) and malignant (n=73) neoplasms. Significant associations were found between Cholesterol (p=0.007), Iodine (p=0.028), Omega 3 (p=0.031), Vitamin D (p=0.041) and the presence of malignant nodules, with Cholesterol intake > 246, 97 g associated with 13.00 times greater chances of malignancy. Vitamin D (p=0.031) and Omega 3 (p=0.039) were associated with the presence of angiolymphatic invasion. Calcium (p=0.008) and Caffeine (p=0.027) were associated with extrathyroidal extension, with calcium intake > 640.06 mg representing a protection factor of 5.43. Vitamin E was associated with the presence of lymph node metastasis (p=0.029). Vitamin B6 (p=0.026) was associated with the presence of multicentricity. Vitamin A intake >276.17 mcg was associated with 4.714 and 6.111 greater odds of presence of multicentricity and extrathyroidal extension, and riboflavin intake >2.4 mg was associated with 4.375 greater odds of presence of extrathyroidal extension. Regarding the IID, no associations were found with the histopathological staging of CT. Eating habits seem to be associated with the histopathological tumor staging of thyroid carcinoma, requiring further studies and investigations that, if confirmed, may have important implications for public health. 

Inadequate nutrient intake, in addition to unfavorable clinical and anthropometric factors, can lead to worse outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). This prospective cohort study aims to assess the prevalence of inadequacies of micronutrients, clinical and anthropometric parameters, and associations with survival in 121 adults and elderly patients with HF treated in an outpatient clinic. An average of 3.4 24-hour recalls was used to assess the usual consumption of micronutrients. Participants were divided into moderate and high deficiency groups, and consumption clusters, according to individual assessment of the intake of each micronutrient. Sociobiodemographic, clinical and anthropometric data were collected, and clinical outcomes (hospitalization and mortality) occurred within 24 months. Overall and eventfree survival were calculated by Kaplan-Meier and curves compared by Log-Rank. Cox regression models were built to identify outcome predictor variables. There was a 100% prevalence of inadequate intake of vitamins B1 and D, and more than 80% for vitamins B2, B9, E, and for calcium, magnesium and copper. There were no differences in overall survival and event-free survival between the groups of individuals with moderate and high micronutrient deficiency (HR = 0.94; p = 0.91 and HR = 1.63; p = 0.26, respectively), and between the Cluster with the highest and lowest consumption of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D (HR = 0.94; p = 0.91 and HR = 1.08; p = 0.84) as well as when the inadequacy of micronutrients was evaluated in isolation (all p>0.05). Excess weight, according BMI, and glomerular filtration rate > 60 mL/min/1.73m2 showed significant associations with better overall survival (both p<0.05). Cox regression models indicated that the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/IV is an independent predictor of overall, event-free survival, increasing the risk of mortality (HR = 6.70 (2.21 – 20 .29), p = 0.01) and hospitalizations (HR = 5.64, p < 0.01). Adequate weight according to BMI was associated with better overall survival (HR = 4.53, p = 0.02). Thus, individuals with HF treated in an outpatient clinic have a high prevalence of inadequacy of micronutrients. NYHA functional class and BMI are independent predictors of the occurrence of unfavorable clinical outcomes in individuals with HF.

In vivo and in vitro studies have shown that selenium supplementation has insulin-mimetic action related to the antioxidant activity of this micronutrient. Otherwise, other studies suggest the ingestion of high doses of selenium interferes with insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. In view of these controversies, this systematic review aimed to answer the following question: “Does Se supplementation affect glycemic control markers in healthy rodents?” The review registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021212011) will be developed based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Metanalysis (PRISMA). Experimental, randomized or non-randomized trials of healthy animal models (rodents) of both sexes, only supplemented with selenium (inorganic, organic or synthetic compounds), regardless of dose, frequency or route of administration, will be included. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) will be considered as the primary outcome and insulin concentration, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), selenium concentration and GPx expression as secondary outcomes. The process of search, selection, extraction and quality analysis will be carried out independently, by two reviewers. Divergences will be resolved by a third reviewer. Searches will be conducted in the databases Embase, Scopus, Medline-Pubmed, Web of Science and CINAHL. The analysis of risk of bias and methodological quality of the included studies will be performed by SYRCLE and CAMARADES tools, respectively. The search strategy resulted in 1389 articles reported, with 13 studies remaining at the end of the selection. Among the selected articles, 38% (5 articles) had adverse effects on fasting blood glucose, insulin or glycated hemoglobin, after treatment with doses between 5 µmol/kg/day and 4000 µg/kg/day sodium selenite, for 28-30 days. On the contrary, two studies with selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) suggested protective effects after administration with 100µg/kg/day for 28 days and 0.5ml/day for 7 days. Another 5 studies reported no significant changes in fasting glucose after treatment with sodium selenite. All studies presented a high risk of selection bias (allocation methods, randomization of animals and blinding of evaluators), however, 100% of the articles were free of biased reports of results, with no potential sources of bias found. Methodological quality resulted in scores between 1.5 and 7.0, with 23.1% of studies classified as high quality. Due to heterogeneity in the presentation of results, there was no statistical design and no meta-analysis. However, this systematic review suggests a theoretical model that considers administration dose, treatment time, presence of pre-existing glycemic changes in the experimental model and form of supplemented Se, as variables that influence the effects of Se supplementation on glycemic markers, as well as systematizes the mechanisms involved in the negative regulation of Se in glucose homeostasis in healthy models. These findings point out critically about the risk of excessive administration of supplements and guides If preclinical future studies on this topic.

Vitamin E deficiency (VED) is associated with several clinical findings in newborns, such as pulmonary bronchodysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity and intracranial hemorrhage. These complications are studied in preterm newborns (PTNB) (< 37 weeks), but low circulating levels of the vitamin were also found in term newborns (TNB). As an inadequacy of vitamin E in the neonatal phase can also compromise cognitive health in childhood, studies are needed to assess whether there is a difference in the nutritional status of vitamin E of newborns according to the gestational age of delivery, to provide support for the protocols of monitoring of neonatal health. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the vitamin E nutritional status between preterm and full-term newborns. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, which included original cross-sectional, case-control and cohort studies in all languages. As eligibility criteria, the analysis of serum/plasma alphatocopherol concentration in newborns was adopted, including PTNB and/or TNB and type of observational study. The databases used for the research were PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, SciELO and Capes Periodicals for thesis and dissertation. All data were analyzed and extracted by two independent reviewers. The assessment of methodological quality was performed using the NewcastleOtawa Scale tool. Mean differences and confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated using the R software. The revision was registered in PROSPERO under registration CRD42021165152. In the systematic review, 1809 articles were found, and at the end of the search 13 were eligible for the review, with a population of newborns between 14 and 235 evaluated, 07 cohort studies, 05 cross-sectiona studies and 01 case-control. Only 03 studies were included in the meta-analysis for using a standardized method for the analytical determination of alpha-tocopherol, for containing information on the mean and standard deviation of alpha-tocopherol and for having performed the analysis in both the PTNB and the TNB. The studies showed high heterogeneity, explained by the sample size, mean serum vitamin E levels and risk of bias. More than 90% of cases were classified with VED in both groups. In the final model, 166 PTNB and 194 TNB were included, with no significant differences found in the means of alpha-tocopherol concentration between the groups (-0.15 [CI 95% -0.72; 0.42], p = 0.61). Despite the need for further studies on the topic, these results demonstrate that regardless of the gestational age at birth, both newborns may have similar vitamin E status, and it is necessary to assess whether these low levels are maintained during the postnatal phase or are transient due to increased use of vitamin E during the birth.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and its prevalence in children and adolescents has increased over the years. Studies indicate the deficiency of trace elements as one of the factors involved in the etiology of the disorder, with zinc being one of the main trace elements investigated in individuals with ASD. Thus, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the relationship between zinc status and Autism in children and adolescents. The protocol for this review is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), with registration number: CRD42020157907. The methodological guidelines adopted are in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyzes (PRISMA) statement. The selection of studies was carried out from an active search in the databases, Pubmed, Scopus and LILACS, using the search descriptors: zinc, trace elements, Biometals, Autism, children, adolescent. The assessment of the methodological quality of the studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Thirty-five studies (34 Case-Controls, one Cohort) performed and 13 countries were included, including the USA (20%), China (17%) and Russia (17%), with the largest number of studies. Sample sizes ranged from 20 to 371, and participant ages from 2 to 18 years. Nine types of biological matrices were evaluated in the studies, with hair (51%) and serum (26%) being the most used in the evaluation of zinc concentrations. Significant differences between the zinc concentrations of the TEA and control groups were observed in 15 studies, of which (34%) observed lower zinc concentrations for the TEA group and (9%) with higher concentrations for the TEA group. Children and adolescents with ASD had lower zinc concentrations compared to controls. Intervention studies with zinc supplementation strategies for children and adolescents with ASD should be conducted.

Probiotics are defined as viable microorganisms when ingested regularly, provide numerous health benefits. However, cell viability can be compromised by exposure to storage and the digestive process. Thus, encapsulation appears as a technological solution capable of promoting protection, controlled release, and preservation of bioactive effects. In this context, the present study aimed to produce, characterize and evaluate the stability of microparticles based on sodium alginate or porcine gelatin containing Lactobacillus acidophilus NRRL B-4495 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NRRL B-4496. Encapsulation was performed using the oil-in-water (O/W) emulsification technique, using Tween 20 as a surfactant. The encapsulates obtained were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Laser Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray Diffraction (DRX). Furthermore, they were evaluated for cell viability, incorporation efficiency, water dispersibility, thermal stability, and stability during storage for 60 days under different temperature conditions (5 °C and 25 °C). For those encapsulated in gelatin, the micrographs showed irregular particles with a smooth surface containing microorganisms in their structures, unlike the sodium alginatebased particles, which showed shrinkage and an apparent absence of microorganisms. The FTIR indicated chemical interactions between the constituents of gelatin-based formulations, with new vibrational bands and visualization of characteristic bands of probiotics. Furthermore, XRD showed that the encapsulates presented a semi-crystalline structure. Gelatin-based formulations containing L. acidophilus and L. plantarum had mean diameters of 26.08 μm (1.74) and 21.56 μm (4.16) and encapsulation efficiencies of 89.6% (4.2 ) and 81.1% (9.7) and viability of [12.1 Log CFU/g (1.0)] and [12.3 Log CFU/g (1.4)], respectively (p>0, 05). On the other hand, the alginate-based particles exhibited diameters of 5.24 μm (1.32) for L. acidophilus and 5.52 μm (4.55) for L. plantarum with cell viability and efficiency of incorporation of probiotics null. Water dispersibility of 69% was found for gelatine encapsulates. Thermal analysis indicated stability at a temperature below 54 ºC, suggesting preservation of the microparticles at room temperature. Finally, the L. acidophilus microparticles in gelatin were stable for 60 days of storage at 5 ºC [12.6 Log CFU/g (0.0)] and 25 ºC [12.5 Log CFU/g (0.5)] (p>0.05). Thus, it was found that microencapsulation in gelatin by O/W emulsification is an adequate and favorable strategy for the protection and stability of probiotic bacteria, enabling future applications in the food area.

The consumption of ultra-processed foods can lead to the onset of chronic non-communicable diseases, inadequate intake of micronutrients, among other health problems. Therefore, it is important to assess this consumption during lactation and its impact on milk composition and maternal nutritional status, as maternal nutrition must ensure an adequate nutritional composition of milk, avoiding the establishment of deficiencies, such as vitamin E deficiency (VED). Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the consumption of ultra-processed foods and its relationship with dietary intake and vitamin E concentration in milk and serum of lactating women. The study was cross-sectional with 294 lactating women attended at university hospitals in Rio Grande do Norte, with at least 30 days postpartum. Blood and breast milk collection was made in fasting and the concentration of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) in the samples was analyzed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The vitamin E profile of breast milk was evaluated considering the amount of the vitamin in an estimated volume of daily consumption (780 mL/day) and compared to the recommendation for infants (4 mg/day). The women's food consumption was obtained by three 24-hour recalls and the foods were classified according to NOVA into unprocessed or minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods and ultra-processed foods. Dietary intake of energy, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat and vitamin E was also analyzed. Participants were divided into tertiles according to the energy contribution of ultra-processed foods. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the groups divided by the tertiles and a multiple linear regression test was performed, without and with adjustment for family income, to assess the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and the vitamin biomarkers. The consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods contributed with 51% of energy intake and ultra-processed foods with 16%. Unprocessed or minimally processed foods contributed most to vitamin E consumption (44%). Alpha-tocopherol in maternal serum was 1144 (344) μg/dL, with 5% (n=11) VED (<517 μg/dL), and in breast milk, mean values of 362 (170) μg/dL were found, being 78% below the recommended daily consumption by infants. Higher caloric intake was observed in women with a higher tertile of consumption of ultra-processed foods (p<0.05). The increase in the share of ultra-processed foods in the diet was associated with lower serum alpha-tocopherol concentrations (β=-0.166, p=0.005), the inadequate vitamin E profile of breast milk (β=-0.137, p=0.021) and the lower consumption of the vitamin from other NOVA groups. The main findings of this study revealed a negative impact of the consumption of ultra-processed foods on the profile of vitamin E biomarkers in lactating women, warning of the possible reduction in circulating levels of the vitamin and its supply to infants. Thus, the current dietary guidelines for the lactating population are reinforced, with regard to avoiding the consumption of these foods, ensuring the promotion of an adequate and healthy diet, and avoiding VED during this period of life.

Background & aims: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is the most frequent dystrophy. Chronic inflammation appears as an important feature of DMD pathophysiology and progression, with cytokines being biomarkers of systemic inflammation and indicative of muscle damage in DMD. Objective: To identify the inflammatory profile of individuals with DMD and to evaluate associations between clinical and nutritional variables. Methods: a prospective study was conducted with data collection between January 2018 and June 2019, in the city of Natal, Northeastern Brazil. Male patients with a confirmed diagnosis of DMD were included. Sociodemographic and illness time data were obtained by interview; the use of medications and supplements was assessed based on information from the patient's medical record. The nutritional status was assessed according to the body mass index (BMI) and the body composition determined with the aid of dual emission x-ray densitometry (DXA). Plasma cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-�, were measured using the ELISA test. The relationship between illness time, nutritional status, body composition, and cytokines was assessed by the Wilcoxon test. Spearman's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regressions were used to establish the relationship between the time of the first signs of DMD, fat mass (FM), and cytokines. Results: Forty-four individuals aged 4.3 to 24.2 years were evaluated. At the time of data collection, individuals had been for 7.8 (4.7–10.5) years since the onset of the first signs of the disease. Concerning nutritional status, 18.2% of the individuals presented marked thinness, thinness or underweight, 40.9% were eutrophic, and 40.9% presented the risk of overweight, overweight, or obesity. The mean %FM was of 33,9 (15,9–50,2) %. The %FM increased (p <0.001) since the beginning of the first signs of DMD. The illness time was positively correlated with IL6 (ρ = 0.371 p = 0.013). BMI/Age correlated negatively with IL-1β and TNF-α (ρ = - 0.357 p = 0.030 and ρ = -0.353 p = 0.032), while the %FM showed a negative relationship with TNF-α (ρ = -0.435 p = 0.005). The regression models demonstrated lower z-scores of BMI/A associated with higher values of IL-1β (β = -0,498 p = 0,003) and IL-6 (β = -0.640 p = 0.004), higher %FM associated with higher IL-6 (β = 0.582 p = 0.007) and lower TNF-α (β = -0.415 p = 0.015). Conclusion: A persistent inflammatory profile was observed in the patients evaluated. The illness time was not a predictor for the values of the evaluated cytokines. Lower values of BMI/A and higher values of %FM were predictors of higher concentrations of IL-6, while lower values of %FM were associated with higher production of TNF-α. The data suggest that maintaining adequate nutritional status and body composition are important for determining the inflammation presented by individuals with DMD.

Natural pigments have numerous bioactive properties, especially carotenoids that have powerful anti-inflammatory action on the human body. However, carotenoids are unstable in the presence of light, acids, oxygen, and heat, which can lead to the loss of antioxidant effects related to the consumption of these molecules. Nanoencapsulation appears as a strategy to preserve or enhance the antiinflammatory action, in addition to increasing the solubility and bioavailability of carotenoids. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the safety of nanoparticles for future clinical applications. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and bioactivity of nanoparticles based on crude Cantaloupe melon extract rich in carotenoids and porcine gelatin in Wistar rats. Encapsulation was performed by oil/water emulsification followed by lyophilization, and porcine gelatin was used as an encapsulating agent and Tween 20 as a surfactant. Nanoformulation (EPG) was characterized by different physical and chemical analyzes and evaluated for incorporation efficiency (EI). Toxicity was investigated through signs of general toxicity and food consumption in male Wistar rats (n = 10) fed with a high glycemic index and glycemic load (HGLI) diet treated with EPG administered by gavage (50 mg/Kg), and crude extract rich in carotenoid (12.5 mg/kg) for ten days, using as controls a group without treatment and another treated with a standard diet. Blood toxicity (blood count, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, liver, and kidney function), morphology and histopathology of the liver, small intestine, kidneys, stomach, and spleen, were evaluated. The characterization of EGS pointed to the presence of spherical particles with a smooth surface, an average diameter of 74 (12.7) nm, a polydispersion index of 0.53 (0.12), and EI of 98% (1.78). For signs of general toxicity, there was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between the initial and final weight of the rats in each evaluated group. There was a significant increase (p <0.05) in food consumption only in the group without treatment. Through the biochemical parameters analyzed, low toxicity of EGS was found. The results obtained for the determination of the relative weight of the livers, spleen, small intestine, kidneys, and stomach showed that there was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between the studied groups. The morphological and histopathological analyses of the liver showed acute hepatitis in the animals of all the groups evaluated, and those treated with EB and EGS showed tissue repair. For small intestine, chronic enteritis was observed in all animals, with a considerable improvement in the villi and intestinal glands of animals treated with EGS. The stomach, spleen, and kidneys do not present a histopathological alteration. The results suggest the safe application of EGS and a bioactive effect, possibly related to the anti-inflammatory potential, showing the safety regarding the use in future clinical studies, aiming to investigate the efficacy in the control of inflammatory processes.

Evidence have pointed to a high prevalence of obesity and lipid alterations associated with high consumption of ultra-processed foods (AUP) in children and adolescents. The aim of the study was to quantify food consumption by level of processing and its influence on anthropometric and lipid profile indicators in overweight adolescents. This is a cross-sectional study carried out by non-probabilistic sampling, with adolescents between 10 and 19 years old, of both sexes, diagnosed with excess weight, attended for the first time at the pediatric outpatient clinic in Natal/RN, in October/2016 to August/2019. Clinical, anthropometric, biochemical, food and dietary consumption data were evaluated. Anthropometric nutritional status was assessed using BMI-for-age, PP, PC, RCQ, RCA and Ic. And CT, HDL, TG, LDL and non-HDL cholesterol for the lipid profile. Food and dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall. Food was classified according to the type of processing, according to the “NOVA Classification”, proposed by Monteiro et al (2010). The Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, Student t, Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson's chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Poisson regression and the Omnibus test were used for statistical analysis. The sample consisted of 158 adolescents, with a higher percentage (50,6%) being male. There were statistically significant differences for the altered variables of PP (P = 0.01), IC (P=0.04), RCA (P=0,017) and TG (P=0,047). We recorded anthropometric averages above the cutoff point for HF (1,29±0,06) and RCA (0,59±0,05) in males, and for biochemical variables, TG (105±50,44), no -HDL-c (132±30,65) and the average TG/HDL (2,76±1,54) and CT/HDL (4,32±1,04) ratios above the recommended. We verified means of PP (33,00±2,22), IC (1,23±0,07) and RCA (0,57±0,06) and CT (173±30,28), TG (122±61,32), without HDL-c (133±28,38) and the TG/HDL (3,22±1,96) and CT/HDL (4,44±0,95) ratios above that recommended in women. The average caloric intake of the total sample was 1.731,3 ± 635,4 kcal/day. Male adolescents had a higher caloric intake compared to girls (1.835,9 ± 671,2 vs. 1.621,1 ± 579,5 kcal/day; t(154) = 2,134; P = 0,034). There was a greater relative caloric contribution of fresh foods and AUP in both sexes. It was found that adolescents with high non-HDL-c had increased mean values for IC [t(149,692) = -2,196; P = 0,029], TG [U(117) = 2245,0; P < 0,001], CT [t(156) = -15,913; P < 0,001] e não-HDL-c [t(145,044) = -17,629; P < 0,001]. In the crude and adjusted regression model, an association was identified between elevated non-HDL-c and RCQ (RP: 1,4; IC 95%: 1,1 a 1,9), TG/HDL ratio (RP: 1,9; IC 95%: 1,2 a 3,0), and CT/HDL ratio (RP: 5,3; IC 95%: 2,6 a 10,6) in the crude analysis and only the CT/HDL ratio remained associated with elevated non-HDL-c in the adjusted analysis. We conclude that the anthropometric indicators of HF and RCA were more evident in male adolescents and changes in TC, TG, non-HDL-c and TG / HDL, CT / HDL ratios in women. Although we did not find associations between AUPs and cardiometabolic disorders, non-HDL-c is a cardiometabolic risk in these adolescents.

The worldwide epidemic of obesity in the pediatric age group is responsible for the occurrence of metabolic disorders that can culminate in Metabolic Syndrome (MS). The study aimed to evaluate the frequency of MS and Hypertriglycerodemic Waist (CHT) and its association with the prevalence of micronutrient inadequacy in overweight adolescents with and without MS. Cross-sectional study, by non-probabilistic sampling, with overweight adolescents, attended at Hospital Universitário Onofre Lopes / UFRN, Natal / RN. Anthropometric, biochemical, food and dietary consumption data were collected. We conducted two 24-hour reminders to estimate the usual consumption of energy and nutrients. The prevalence of inadequacy of micronutrients was estimated by the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) as a cutoff point, with adjustments for intra and interpersonal and energy variances. The normality of data distribution was verified by the Komolgorov-Smirnov test and the Mann-Whitney U test. The t-Student test to verify differences in the metabolic characteristics of adolescents with and without MS, and with and without CHT. Pearson's Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test to verify the binary association of variables with MS. Poisson regression was used to verify the prevalence ratio between CHT and SM. The final sample consisted of 168 adolescents, 53% male and an average age of 11.6 ± 1.6 years. We registered 57.1% with obesity, 22.2% with MS and 42.3% with CHT. We found significant differences between adolescents with and without MS for CP, fasting glycemia, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol. MS was associated with BMI, CP, fasting glycemia, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride, both by the cutoff point for SM and for CHT, just as it was associated with CHT. CHT was associated with MS regardless of fasting glucose, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, and the prevalence ratio between CHT and MS was 5.02 (95% CI, 1.94 to 12.99; P = 0.001). The average consumption of energy and macronutrients in adolescents with MS was 1671.58 Kcal / day, 52.45% carbohydrate, 16.70% protein, 30.85% total fat and 16.77 g / day fiber . The prevalence of micronutrient inadequacy in both sexes was 100% for the following nutrients, regardless of the presence of MS: vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, vitamin B12. We found high prevalence of inadequacy for adolescents with and without MS respectively, vitamin A (80.51 - 98.54%), vitamin B1 (81.59 - 99.62%), vitamin B2 (92.79 - 100%), vitamin B6 (96.86 - 99.78%), phosphorus (91.31 - 97.13%), magnesium (95.15 - 100%), copper (77.34 - 92.22%). We concluded that there was a high prevalence of MS, correlated with anthropometric status, CP, fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, HDL-c and triglycerides, as well as associated with CHT. Adequacy was observed regarding energy and macronutrient consumption and high prevalence of inadequate vitamin and mineral consumption regardless of the presence of MS.

Proteinuria, a common clinical condition after kidney transplantation (KTx), has multifactorial causes, but there are indications that high dietary protein intake also influences renal function outcomes. In the late posttransplant there is an indication for nutritional therapy with control of protein intake, however there are gaps on the real impact of interventions on renal function parameters and other posttransplant aspects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an individualized nutritional intervention in the late posttransplant on renal function, body composition and quality of life of KTx recipients at a University Hospital in Natal / RN. This is a clinical trial, conducted with 20 patients, randomized into a case group (n=10) - with nutritional intervention consisting of an eating plan and individualized nutritional guidelines (1,0 g/Kg of protein) after 60 days of KTx, and control group (n=10) - with nutritional guidelines for posttransplant offered by the hospital. The groups were followed up in the periods of immediate posttransplant (T0), 3 (T3), 6 (T6) and 9 (T9) months after KTx, being evaluated for renal function (urea concentrations, serum creatinine and ACR) , lipid and glycemic profile, dietary assessment (3-day food record), anthropometric measurements (BMI and waist circumference) and body composition (DXA), in addition to the assessment of quality of life (SF-36), level of physical activity (IPAQ) and screening for mental disorders (SRQ20). The results showed a 30% reduction in the mean values of ACR, indicated as the primary outcome, for the case group at T6, and although reduction was also observed for the control group in the same period, there was no significant difference between groups (p = 0.886).There was an improvement in the dyslipidemia, with an adaptation of the mean values of TC, LDL-c and TG, for the case group, still in T6, while in the control this was only observed in T9, however the differences were not significant (p=0,496). The glycemic levels of the case group did not show a reduction, as perceived for the control, in T6, but remained stable and with a tendency to decrease in T9 (p=0,690). Body weight was maintained for patients in the case group, but there was no reduction in the percentage of body fat and an increase in lean mass, as observed for the control group, at T6 (p=0,964/p=0,761). Low protein intake as well as possible fluctuations in body weight in the case group, before 6 months, may have favored the increase in fat mass at T0 (r=- 0,523/p=0,018) and T6 (r=-0,636/p=0,048). As for the quality of life, there was a significant improvement in the score of the 'vitality' domain of the emotional component (p=0,022), for the case group, at T6. In conclusion, the individualized nutritional intervention favored the control of energy and protein intake in the late posttransplant, and this may be important for reducing the risk of proteinuria, improving quality of life and maintaining body weight, however, the composition can be altered with a consequent reduction in muscle mass.

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a set of disorders related to lipid profile (triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol), glycemic, increased central fat deposition and blood pressure, which are considered cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association amongst the components of MS and biological, nutritional and lifestyle factors in individuals with MS. This is a cross-sectional study conducted with individuals between 19 and 77 years, both sexes, enrolled at the Endocrinology Outpatient Clinic of the University Hospital Onofre Lopes - HUOL, UFRN. The individuals who presented the inclusion criteria were invited to participate in the research and after agreement were applied the questionnaires of life habits, first 24-hour dietary recall, blood pressure measurements, anthropometric and scheduled biochemical analyses were performed. The second stage consisted of the delivery of biochemical test results, application of the second 24-hour dietary recall and nutritional guidance. Of the total of 224 participants, 172 (76.8%) were women, with a mean 51(12) years, 26.3% were between 60 and 77 years old. . Women are more likely to have changes in waist circumference, as well as HDL-C, and glycaemia (OR = 3,20; IC95% 3,00 - 8,06, OR= 2,94; IC95% 1,36 - 6,31, OR = 0,31; IC95% 0,11 – 0,75, respectively. Dietary consumption of energy, fibers, potassium, copper, iron, and selenium have showed differences amongst groups with and without changes in the components of MS (p<0,05); of these nutrients, potassium has been estimated as a protective factor for HDL-C (OR = 0,98; IC95% 0,97 - 0,99). Individuals with high waist circumference have had more altered concentrations of lipid, glycemic and inflammatory markers (p<0,05), and the body mass index has been considered as a predictor of this component (OR = 2,12; IC95% 1,69 - 3,97). Physical activity has emerged as a protective factor for triglycerides (OR = 0,28; IC95% 0,09 – 0,79). Increased age has been considered a predictor for changes in blood pressure and blood glucose (OR = 1,05; IC95% 1,02 – 1,08, OR = 1,07; IC95% 1,04 – 1,10, respectively). Every increase in sleeping time can decrease the chance of high blood pressure by 22%. Dietary potassium intake, physical activity, and sleeping hours have been able considered in therapeutic approaches aimed at prevention and treatment of the MS.

Cancer impacts on body composition, and loss of muscle mass (MM) is associated to worse outcomes. Therefore, it is important to investigate simple, easy and cost-effective methods of MM assessment to early identify individuals with low MM. The objective of the study was to evaluate if calf circumference (CC) may be used as a marker of MM considering skeletal muscle index (SMI) from computed tomography (CT) as a gold standard and the prognostic value of CC and SMI to predict mortality in patients with cancer. A single center prospective study was conducted with adult and elderly patients attending a reference center of oncology and had recent abdominal CT images available. Data was collected through a semi-structured form and patients’ records, and included socio-demographic data (sex, age and ethnicity); clinical data (primary site and staging of tumor and treatments performed); anthropometric variables (body mass index – BMI and CC) and outcome (death). Muscle strength was accessed using handgrip strength (dynamometry). MM was assessed by CT images at the level of the third lumbar vertebra, muscle quantity was analyzed by SMI (total muscular area normalized for height) and muscle quality by muscle attenuation (MA). Spearman’s correlation, sensitivity, specificity, predictive positive and negative value and area under receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve were analyzed. Cox proportional hazard model adjusted for age, sex and staging of disease was used to evaluate prognostic value of the MM evaluation methods to predict mortality. A total of 250 patients (52.8% female) were evaluated, with a median age of 63 years (IQR: 55-73). Colorectal cancer was the most prevalent, followed by gastric cancer in men and breast cancer in women. Stages III and IV together represented 64% of the patients and 48% performed combined treatment. Almost half were classified as normal BMI (44.4%), 46.4% had low CC; low SMI was observed in 29.2% of the patients, 33.6% had low MA and low muscle strength was identified in 41.6% of the sample (dynapenia). CC was positively correlated with MM and SMI obtained by CT images, with highest correlation obtained between CC and MM not adjusted for height both in men (r=0.667, p<0.001) and women (r=0.392, p<0.001) (moderate and weak correlation, respectively). The area under curve for CC identifying low MM was greater in men (AUC 0.697, 78% sensitivity and 62% specificity) compared to women (AUC 0.563, 50% sensitivity and 63% specificity). Kappa test showed a fair agreement (0.366, p < 0.001) between the methods, however it was observed only for male. Death by any cause occurred in 16% of patients and significant predictor of mortality was identified only for low CC (HR = 3.02; CI 1.52-6.03, p = 0.002). In conclusion, low CC was consistent with low SMI for male patients and predicts risk of mortality in patients with cancer. The findings allow the use of CC as a simple screen tool in clinical practice to identify cancer patients in risk of death to target specific care.

Nutrition during the complementary feeding period provides nutrients and dietary compounds that influence intestinal health. This study aimed to investigate the association between nutrient intake of complementary food and intestinal barrier function in infants under two years of age. A prospective longitudinal study included 233 children aged 9 to 15 months from the Etiology, Risk Factors and Interactions of Enteric Infections and Malnutrition and the Consequences for Child Health and Development (MAL-ED) study, carried out in Fortaleza-CE. The dietary intake of complementary food was estimated based on 24-hour dietary recall (24HR), collected monthly from 9 to 15 months of age. The usual nutrient intake was adjusted by intrapersonal variance and energy. Nutritional adequacy of the energy, fiber, and macronutrients dietary intake was evaluated by the ratio between the value consumed and the recommended one. For the micronutrient adequacy of diet, the mean adequacy ratio (MAR) was constructed from the nutrient adequacy ratios (NAR) calculated for vitamins (vitamin A, thiamine and folate) and minerals (iron, zinc, and calcium). The evaluation of intestinal barrier function was determined by the lactulose/mannitol urinary ratio (L: M). Myeloperoxidase (MPO), neopterin (NEO) and alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) concentrations were measured in stool samples to indicate gut immunity and permeability. As an indicator of environmental enteropathy (EE), the EE score was calculated, based on the categorization of the three fecal biomarkers concentrations (MPO, NEO, AAT) distributions. To investigate the association between energy and nutrient intake and intestinal biomarkers multiple linear regressions were used. Nutritional adequacy was high for all evaluated nutrients, except for the fiber intake adequacy. All biomarkers exhibited high values, indicating a compromised intestinal barrier function and the presence of intestinal inflammation among the infants evaluated. There was a negative correlation between energy adequacy and L: M (ρ = -0.19, p <0.05) and between folate adequacy and NEO concentrations (ρ = -0.21, p <0.01). However, a positive correlation between thiamine adequacy and MPO concentration (ρ = 0.22, p <0.01) and between calcium adequacy and NEO concentration (ρ = 0.23; p < 0.01). The results from the regression models showed that higher energy intake was associated with a lower L: M ratio (β = -0.19, p = 0.02) and that higher fiber intake was associated with lower intestinal inflammation (β = -0.20, p = 0.04). In conclusion, the infants showed nutrient intakes higher than the recommended dietary allowance (on the exception of fiber), impaired intestinal barrier function and intestinal inflammation. The higher energetic and fiber intakes were associated with a better intestinal barrier function and lower intestinal inflammation, respectively.  

Studies have shown the benefits of Trypsin Inhibitor isolated from Tamarind seeds (Tamarindus indica L.) (TTI), which improves several biochemical parameters in Wistar rats. However, alternatives are sought to intensify the effect of TTI, through encapsulation, which allows a controlled release and potentialize the bioactive effect. In this study, we investigated the impact of nanoencapsulated TTI on chitosan and whey protein isolate (ECW) on biochemical parameters (glycemia, insulin and lipid profile) of Wistar rats overfeed with high glycemic index diet (HGLI), in addition to evaluating the in vitro stability of the ECW against the physiological conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The nanoparticles were synthesized by nanoprecipitation using an aqueous solution containing chitosan, whey protein isolate and TTI (2: 2: 1 w/w/w) (ECW) and without ITT (2: 2 w/w) (CW). The nanoencapsulates were mainly characterized by morphology (SEM) and particle size (Laser Diffraction). They were also evaluated for stability to in vitro gastrointestinal tract conditions being performed in the three phases, oral, gastric and intestinal, and monitored by antitrypsin activity, SDS-PAGE gel protein profile and High-Efficiency Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The nanoparticles were administered in vivo by gavage (12.5 mg/kg of ECW and 10.0 mg/kg of CW) in Wistar rats overfeed with HGLI diet and investigated for biochemical parameters and histopathological analysis of the pancreas. ECW and CW have spherical shapes, smooth surfaces and agglomeration and, respectively, mean diameter of 117.4 nm (24.1) and 123.9 (11.3), and polydispersity index of 0.370 (0.004) and 0.225 (0.013).The results obtained in conditions simulating digestibility showed that ECW maintained the antitrypsin activity in 95.5% in the gastric phase, whereas the TTI (control) was hydrolyzed, completely losing the activity and characteristic protein peak observed by HPLC. In the presence of intestinal enzymes, ECW and TTI were susceptible to assay conditions, as confirmed by SDS-PAGE and HPLC. In Wistar rats overfeed with HGLI diet, ECW and CW significantly reduced glycemia and HOMA IR, and only ECW increased HDL-c (p <0.05). Regarding the histopathology of the pancreas, ECW obtained better results regarding tissue repair and aspects related to organ normality and functionality. Based on the results obtained, the importance of the study is emphasized due to its innovative character. It was possible to show that the nanoencapsulation promoted better protection of the TTI, and gradual release in the desired condition, improvement of the biochemical parameters related to the Metabolic Syndrome, using a low TTI dosage.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with gastric and colorectal tumors among the 10 most common types. Changes in body composition and skeletal muscle mass of cancer patients are common; however, such changes may directly impact survival and are associated with a higher incidence of post-surgical complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate which aspects related to body composition, muscle strength and skeletal muscle characteristics are predictive factors of postoperative complications in patients with gastric and colorectal cancer. A prospective study, from December 2017 to December 2018, was performed with surgical patients with gastric and colorectal cancer. Computed tomography images of the abdominal region were evaluated to determine body composition: amount of skeletal muscle through Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), skeletal muscle quality through muscle radiodensity, which reflects fat infiltration into the muscle, and amount of Visceral Adipose Tissue. Sarcopenia was defined as low SMI, and myosteatosis as low muscle radiodensity. Dynapenia was defined as low handgrip strength. Grade II post-surgical complications or above, according to Clavien-Dindo's classification, were considered in this study. All patients were followed up until hospital discharge, and 30 days after discharge. A total of 84 patients were included in the study and 17.9% were diagnosed with sarcopenia, 16.7% with myosteatosis and 31% with dynapenia. Post-surgical complications occurred in 51.2% of the sample. Cox regression analyze showed that dynapenia combined with sarcopenia and/or myosteatosis was the strongest independent predictor of risk for postoperative complications in patients with gastric and colorectal cancer. In conclusion, it is strongly recommended to evaluate the body composition before performing the surgical procedure, which may help to screen patients at higher risk of developing complications, reducing the risks from this therapeutic modality.

The production of meals in institutional restaurants covers several nuances, especially in the current scenario of intense relationship between food and climate change, water scarcity, social and economic inequality and the incidence of morbidities in the world population. Thus, the present research aims to evaluate Institutional Education Restaurants (IER) of the federal public sphere from the perspective of Sustainable Nutrition, including the economic, social, environmental and health dimensions. This study was characterized as descriptive/cross-sectional, carried out in six IER from November 2018 to August 2019. The analysis consisted of evaluating acquisition foodstuffs as well as the menu served during 1 (one) month in each educational institution. The acquired foodstuffs were investigated from the perspective of their origin – place of production; financial investment by degree of processing – based on food guide guidelines; nutritional profile – according to the parameters of the Pan American Health Organization and presence of genetically modified organisms in order to address the socioeconomic, environmental and health dimensions. The menu served was subject to environmental and health evaluation through the assessment of Water Footprint (WF) and Nutritional Composition of the meal offered. The results of the present research showed that 44.8% of the acquired foodstuffs were of local origin; 28.1% of national origin; 15.7% of regional origin; 11.0% state and only 0.4% of international origin. Higher average percentage of financial spent in “fresh or minimally processed foods” (73.4%), followed by “processed” (11.9%), “ultra-processed” (10.8%) and “seasoning/culinary ingredients” (2.2%). Excess sodium (60.8%), Saturated Fat (46.9%), Total Fat (43.6%), Free Sugars (40.1%), Trans Fat (21.3%), Sweeteners (16.2%) in the acquired foodstuffs by the institutions. It was found that 9.2% of the purchased foods were transgenic. Regarding the analysis of the menus, an average water footprint of 2 165.5 Liters of water per meal was observed, which provided an average energy value of 834.6kcal, proteins 51.8g, carbohydrates 100.2g, lipids 25.2g, fiber 11.5g and sodium 1,289.6mg. Although IER have a higher purchase of local foods, with a high financial investment in “fresh or minimally processed” foods, there have nevertheless been considerable purchases of “processed” and “ultra-processed” foods in which they have direct implications on the frequency of foodstuffs with excess sodium, saturated fat, total fat, Free sugars, trans fat and sweeteners. The data obtained in the present research show that food acquisition and menu development in the RIE are directly related to the dimensions that involve sustainable nutrition.

Ballet dancers constitute a risk group for the development of eating disorders (ED) due to the strict demands on physical performance, contributing to body image dissatisfaction (BI). This study aimed to compare the presence of ED risk behaviors, the perception of BI and the associations with anthropometric nutritional status and body composition in groups of female dancers, gymgoers and sedentary women. This is a comparative study involving 19 participants in each group, conducted from August 2016 to June 2018. Body Mass Index (BMI) was  alculated and body fat percentage (% BF) was analyzed and bone mineral density (BMD) by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). To assess the risk behaviors for ED, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), directed to Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and Bulimic Investigatory Test Edinburgh (BITE), focused on Bulimia Nervosa (BN) behaviors were used. For the perception of BI, the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and Silhouette Figure Scale (EFS) were applied. In ballet dancers, BMI and % BF were significantly lower when compared to the other groups (one-way ANOVA, p <0.05). Total body bone mineral density (BMD) by DXA was within the expected limits for age, not differing between groups, averaging 0.4 (0.8) Z-scores. EAT-26, BITE and BSQ scores did not differ between the groups studied. The presence of BI distortion assessed by the EFS was higher among sedentary and gym-goers (68.8% in ballet dancers, 70.6% in gym-goers and 100.0% in sedentary women, p = 0.028), but dissatisfaction with BI was not differed between groups (68.8% in ballet dancers, 75.0% in gym-goers, 89.5% in sedentary women, p = 0.306). BMI and % BF showed a positive correlation with the BSQ score in the dancers (BMI: r2 = 0.657, p = 0.002; % BF: r2 = 0.574, p = 0.010). In gym-goers, % BF showed a negative correlation with the EAT-26 score (r2 = - 0.571, p = 0.013). In sedentary women, BMI positively correlated with EAT-26 score (r2 = 0.462, p = 0.047) and BSQ score (r2 = 0.653, p = 0.002), % BF positively correlated with BSQ score (r2 = 0.524, p= 0.026) and BMD negatively correlated with BITE score (r2 = - 0.537, p = 0.039). It was concluded that the presence of ED risk behaviors and BI dissatisfaction in the dancers was not different when compared to the gym-goers and sedentary women. BI distortion was less present in the ballet dancers when compared to the other groups studied. BMI and % BF correlated differently in the studied groups with behaviors suggestive of ED and BI perception, and BMD was important only in the sedentary group.

Studies have shown that the trypsin inhibitor isolated from tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) (TTI) seeds have a satietogenic and anti-inflammatory action in an experimental model. Based on this and aiming to increase the efficiency and stability of the antitríptic activity, the present study investigated the isolated and conjugated effect of chitosan and isolated milk protein in the incorporation of TTI. The inhibitor was extracted from tamarind seeds and isolated by affinity chromatography on Trypsin-Sepharose. For the encapsulation, the nanoprecipitation technique was used in an organic solvent (ethanol), and the encapsulating agents evaluated were chitosan, whey protein isolate and a combination of both, respectively, in TTI: encapsulating agent ratio of 1: 4, 1: 4 and 1: 2: 2 w/w. The obtained particles were evaluated for the efficiency of incorporation, characterized by different physical and chemical methods, determination of the amount (mg) of inhibitor that reduces the activity of the trypsin by 50% (IC 50) and stability at different temperatures (40, 60, 80 and 100°C). Regarding the efficiency of incorporation, there was no statistical difference between the evaluated formulations (p> 0.05). SEM of the encapsulates showed the formation of spherical particles with a smooth surface, with the exception of that based on chitosan, in which spherical particles were observed, with surfaces filled with depressions. FTIR spectra provided indicative of ITT encapsulation with the three wall materials studied (purified chitosan, whey protein isolate, and chitosan-whey protein isolate). The diffractograms indicated that all the encapsulates presented amorphous structure. The encapsulation mainly with chitosan and the combination of wall materials promoted a reduction in IC50, respectively, equal to 0.04 mg and 0.05 mg, compared to 0.21 mg of ITT alone, which was proven to be inhibitory action, considering that the particles isolates showed no antitryptic activity. Regarding stability, only chitosan-whey protein isolate preserved the antitrytry activity up to 80°C. Thus, it can be concluded that the combination of encapsulating agents was an extremely important strategy to enhance the function and stability of the TTI.

The practice of classical ballet promotes posture, improvement in physical conditioning, muscle tonus and body modeling, resulting in an increase in energy expenditure. To provide fluidity of dance movements, low body weight and lower fat mass indexes are recommended for practitioners, so that body composition is directly related to ballet performance. Evaluating body composition of classical ballet practitioners is important for maintaining the general health conditions, as well as to avoid deleterious consequences of a low body weight. Although dual-energy-X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is considered a reference method, anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance (BIA) are more accessible, but dependent on the use of prediction equations suitable for estimating Body Fat (BF) or Fat-Free Mass (FFM). Different equations for distinct populations are found in the literature, and no specific equations for Brazilian dancers are found. The aim of present study was to validate anthropometry and BIA equations for body composition, comparing them with DXA, for non-professional classical ballet dancers. A cross-sectional study was conducted, with data collection between June 2016 and December 2017. Female ballet dancers at intermediate/advanced level (n = 37) were assessed. Body composition evaluation included total body assessments using DXA, anthropometric assessments and tetrapolar BIA. We used the BF and FFM predictive equations found in the literature excluding equations involving different age groups and equations validated only for males. The correlation between the BF or FFM results given by equations and DXA was determined by the Pearson’s correlation (r). The one sample T-test was used to verify if the mean differences between the results of the equations against DXA significantly differed from zero. The concordance between the different equations and DXA was determined through the Bland-Altman analysis, using simple linear regression to test the presence of proportional bias between the equations and DXA. The studied population had a median age of 19 (16, 24) years and a mean BF of 28.37 (7.01)% by DXA. For BF determined by anthropometry equations, the one proposed by Durnin & Womersley (1974) presented good agreement (r = 0.852, p < 0.000, e one sample T-test p =0.600), with no proportional bias (R² = -0.055, beta = 0.021, p = 0.929). For the BIA equations, none of the predictive equations tested were valid for the study population. The results showed that only one of the predictive equations analyzed was applicable in the evaluation of body composition of the classical ballet dancers studied, emphasizing the importance of the validation of equations when applied in specific populations.

Obesity in adolescence is currently a serious public health problem in Brazil and in the world. In this sense, the reduction and control of body weight represents an important measure to reduce the risks associated with obesity over time. However, adolescents use unhealthy for weight loss behavior, considering that the main motivations for weight loss are related to improving appearance and acceptance by peers, to the detriment of aspects associated with better health. In this context, the present study aims to elaborate and validate of the content a questionnaire for evaluation of the motivation for weight loss in adolescents with overweight and obesity. This is a cross-sectional, methodological study with descriptive and explanatory objectives, which used bibliographical research and the survey as technical procedures and the quantitative data analysis approach. The preparation and validation of the questionnaire were conducted in five stages, for which two systematic reviews were carried out. The first one, for the identification of weight loss motivation questionnaires applicable to people with overweight or obesity in any age group. The same was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus and LILACS databases, in the Portuguese, Spanish or English languages, without restriction regarding the period of publication, using the descriptors questionnaire, scale, instrument, evaluation, motivation, motive, reason, "lose weight ", "losing weight", "weight loss" and slimming. This first systematic review included six studies and contributed to the selection of domains for the questionnaire. The second systematic review was conducted with the objective of identifying the motivations for weight loss in adolescents with overweight and/or obesity. The virtual search was performed in the LILACS, PubMed, ADOLEC and Scopus databases, using the descriptors motivation, motive, reason, "weight loss", "lose weight" and adolescent. Studies published up to 2016 in Portuguese, English or Spanish were considered eligible. This second systematic review included six studies and provided the 17 items for the initial version of the questionnaire. The most frequent motivations in the studies were: to have better health, to improve my appearance, to improve my self-esteem, to avoid provocations/bullying, to be healthier, to have a good physical body, to be accepted by my friends and classmates and to wear clothes "normal size"/ "more elegant". The evaluation of the content validity was attested by a committee of 12 specialists, composed of nutritionists, endocrinologists, psychologists and physical educators. Based on expert evaluations, the content validity index (CVI) was calculated. After the evaluation of the content validity by the 12 specialists, five motivations were excluded because they presented CVI <0.80 for practical relevance. Of the 12 items kept in the questionnaire, five items were reviewed and submitted for evaluation by the specialists, in order to standardize the writing and make the language more appropriate for adolescents, the target audience of the questionnaire. The twelve items held in the instrument were categorized by experts in the areas of health, personal satisfaction, social, and appearance. The instrument elaborated presented adequate content validity attested by the panel of experts.

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system. According to last estimates from the Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCA), this neoplasm is expected to reach 9610 people in Brazil by the end of 2018, and the largest number of cases is expected to occur in the Northeast region (Ceará, Paraíba and Rio Grande do Norte). Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) accounts for about 70% of TC cases, and considering that the rate of incidence varies in different parts of the world, modifiable risk factors may play an important role in TC carcinogenesis. Moreover, alterations in microRNAs (miRNAs) expression may also be part of TC risk factors. In addition, the frequent consumption of certain foods has also been associated with the progression of malignant tumors. Experimental and clinical studies have shown that antioxidant vitamins can inhibit the development and progression of cancer, thus the biochemical status of vitamins A and E have emerged as potential markers of risk for genesis and evolution of the disease. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the current knowledge on modulation of miRNA expression induced by vitamins A and E in TC, and the association of dietary habits and serum concentrations of vitamins A and E with histopathological prognostic factors of CPT. For this, a systematic review was conducted following the guidelines "The Prism: Statement for Reporting Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes of Studies That Evaluate Health Care Interventions: Explanation and Elaboration". Furthermore, weekly eating habits before TC diagnosis were evaluated using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) developed by the Elsa-Brazil study. Serum vitamin A and E were measured in three times liquid chromatography: one before thyroidectomy and two after thyroidectomy of PTC patients. The results showed that evidence of changes in miRNA expression induced by vitamins A and E in TC are scarce, however, vitamin A appears to be relevant in the modulation of miRNAs in other tumors. In addition, weekly food intake > 1/week of couscous/farofa and/or margarine/vegetable cream may increase the risk of CPT patients present extrathyroidal extension (p = 0.021 and 0.004 respectively), while beef intake > 1/week may increase risk of extrathyroidal extension (p = 0.040) and lymph node metastases (p = 0.046). Regarding serum concentrations of vitamins A and E, reduced serum vitamin A levels may be associated with angiolymphatic invasion, and lymph node metastases (p = 0.027 and 0.015 respectively), and CPT patients with extrathyroidal extension or angiolymphatic invasion tend to have post-operative vitamin E concentrations lower than the preoperative. We suggest that both food intake and vitamin A status and may be relevant in predicting histopathological outcomes of CPT. Thus, future studies on the modulation of miRNAs induced by vitamin A in TC are necessary.

Introduction: Extract of Allium cepa L. and its isolated compounds are known to have antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. Here we investigate the antidiabetic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of treatments with Allium cepa L. extract and S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Methods and results: The groups were divided into: (CG): control group  - non-diabetic animals; STZ: animals with untreated experimental diabetes; STZ-EAC: animals with experimental diabetes treated with Allium cepa L. extract and STZ-SMCS: animals with experimental diabetes treated with S-methylcysteine. Allium cepa L. extract (400mg / kg body weight) and S-methylcysteine (200mg / kg body weight) were administered daily for 30 days. The STZ-EAC and STZ-SMCS groups had lower levels of triglycerides and VLDL, increased SOD and CAT activity, pancreatic islet regeneration and improved glycogen depletion throughout the STZ. Only the STZ-SMCS group showed antidiabetic effect and increased IL-10, compared to STZ and STZ-EAC. Conclusion: Allium cepa L. extract and S-methylcysteine sulfoxide can improve the metabolic profile in DM, attenuating oxidative stress in the liver and the inflammatory response. These results provide a basis for the use of these compounds as nutritional supplements.

Hypovitaminosis D has been a frequent finding in individuals with heart failure (HF), however, studies in regions with high solar incidence are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vitamin D status and its associated factors in individuals with HF residing in a sunny region. This is a cross-sectional study conduced with 70 adult and elderly individuals diagnosed with HF, according to the Boston points system and the Framingham criteria, confirmed by the Doppler echocardiogram. Clinical, biochemical, anthropometric, dietary data, skin phototype, sun exposure and physical activity were evaluated. 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was analyzed by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay method. Subjects were agruped according to 25OHD concentrations in"sufficient" (≥30ng / mL) and "hypovitaminosis D" (<30ng / mL). Comparisons of the variables between the groups were performed using appropriate statistical tests. Correlations between 25OHD concentrations and continuous variables were assessed by the Pearson or Spearman coefficient (r). The relationship between the independent variables and the 25OHD concentration was adjusted accordingly using the generalized linear regression model. The individuals had a mean age of 53 (15) years, predominantly male (64.3%). The mean concentration of 25OHD was 40.1 (12.4) ng / mL, with 24.3% of hypovitaminosis D. A significantly higher frequency of females was observed in the hypovitaminosis D group [Odds Ratio (OR ) = 7.38; p = 0.001]. Participants who presented HF with ischemic etiology had a higher risk for hypovitaminosis D (OR = 3.97, p = 0.03), as well as those with high PTHi (> 67pg / mL) (OR = 3.39, p = 0.034 ). Patients with HF using the drug angiotensin receptor antagonist / angiotensinogen converting enzyme inhibitor or antiplatelet agent had a significantly higher chance of hypovitaminosis D (OR = 11.14, p = 0.015 and OR = 5.81, p = 0.003, respectively). Significant correlations were found between 25OHD and albumin (r = 0.365, p = 0.015), total calcium (r = 0.266, p = 0.026), hemoglobin (r = 0.249, p = 0.037), TGP 0.002) and PTHi (r = -0.255, p = 0.033). Analysis of the regression model adjusted for 25OHD showed that sex is an independent predictor of 25OHD concentrations, with 25OHD concentrations being higher in males compared to females (β = 7.78, p = 0.005). The New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification also proved to be an independent predictor, and NYHA I subjects were found to have concentrations higher than 25OHD when compared to NYHA class III / IV (β = 8.23; p = 0.032). It is concluded that hypovitaminosis D is a moderately frequent finding among individuals with HF residing in a sunny region. Clinical and biochemical aspects demonstrated associations with 25OHD. Sex and functional classification are independent predictors of 25OHD.

Buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa) presents great functional potential because it presents high levels of carotenoids, oleic acid and phenolic compounds. However, the liposolubility and oxidation of the bioactive compounds limit application as an ingredient in food. Based on this, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the isolated and conjugated effect of porcine gelatin and sodium alginate on buriti oil encapsulation, and the effect on solubility and antimicrobial potential. The vegetable oil was supplied by Plantus S.A. and was submitted to chemical characterization (profile of fatty acids and phenolic compounds) and evaluation of antimicrobial potential. The encapsulation was performed by the oil/water emulsification technique, using Tween 20 as a surfactant. The encapsulates obtained were characterized by MEV, FTIR, Laser Diffraction, Zeta Potential, XRD, and incorporation efficiency (%). In addition, they were evaluated for solubility and antimicrobial potential compared to crude oil. The fatty acid profile showed predominance of linoleic acid (53.36%) and palmitic acid (25.75%). The phenolic compound that presented the highest concentration was quercetin (20.53 (0.37) μg.g^-1). The characterization study showed that the encapsulates based on gelatin (OGS) presented spherical shape, smooth surface and low agglomeration, compared to that obtained through the combination of encapsulating agents (OAG). The FTIR indicated new chemical interactions present in the encapsulates due to the formation of new vibrational bands, mainly for OGS that presented greater attenuation of the vibrations present in the crude oil. The encapsulation efficiencies obtained for OGS and OAG were, respectively, 86.80% and 71.91% (p <0.05). In relation to water solubility, OGS had a higher percentage [89.83 (2.59)%] than OAG [42.84 (2.21)%] and pure buriti oil [3.91 (0.39 )%]. Therefore, it can be concluded that the encapsulation of buriti oil in gelatin was a promising strategy to increase the potential of buriti oil use in food.

The concern about the environment motivates the interest in avoiding waste in the productive food chain, which is responsible for the generation of considerable amount of waste. Thinking about sustainable production, fruit residues, such as peel and melon seeds, can add nutritional value to new products. The objective of this study was to obtain and characterize a flour from Cantaloupe melon seeds (Cucumis melo L. var. Reticulatus), and to evaluate the viability of its use as an ingredient in the manufacture of cakes. Thus, four different formulations were developed: standard cake - 0% (F1) and cakes plus melon seed flour in substitution of wheat flour, at concentrations of 10% (F2), 30% (F3) and 50% % (F4). Analyzes of centesimal composition were performed; dietary fiber; physical analyzes; mineral composition and evaluation of the fatty acid profile in the melon seed whole flour. To evaluate the overall acceptance of the formulations of the cakes prepared with the melon seed flour, sensorial analysis was carried out with 135 non-trained tasters, which also included the identification of the sample by means of sensorial attributes using the ideal scale test, Just About Right. The results showed that the whole melon seed flour has a considerable nutritional value, presenting 18% of proteins; 3% moisture; 4% ash; 30% lipids and 35% dietary fiber; presenting important levels of minerals, mainly phosphorus (1507.62 mg / 100 g), potassium (957.35 mg / 100 g) and magnesium (504.03 mg / 10 g). The polyunsaturated fatty acid fraction was the most found in melon seed flour, with a predominance of omega 6 (17.95 g / mg sample). The sensorial analysis showed good acceptance for the formulations containing 10 and 30% of whole melon seed flour, being the formulation containing 10%, the most accepted. In general, the testers considered the formulations as ideal to the attributes used in Just About Right, preferring the F2 formulation. The research confirmed the feasibility of the use of melon seed flour in food production, emphasizing the incentive to sustainable practices, promoting economic, social and health benefits.

The Restaurant Popular Program aims to offer appropriate meals concerning nutritional and hygienic-sanitary conditions with lower prices for population groups that live in an unsafety food situation. Food handlers have such an important role through meals production because they can be a vector of food poisoning. That is why it is essential to investigate aspects related to food handlers’ formation and their hygienic practices. This study reached to evaluate knowledge, self-reported and observed practices of food handlers concerning food safety at Restaurant Popular in Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil. We applied a questionnaire sheet with all food handlers from 10 selected unities from different towns, which sums 70 food handlers. This questionnaire registered levels food handlers knowledge and self-reported practices. Food safety practices were registered by the researchers themselves through a checklist. Besides, we evaluated hygienic-sanitary conditions of facilities we visited. Food handlers knowledge about food safety reached a percentage of 72.64%. Self-reported practices presented a mean of 80.71%. It was observed that food handlers knowledge presented significant positive correlation (p <0.05) with the self-reported practices. However, there was no correlation among their practices and other variants. There was no association between socio-demographic data and knowledge and self-reported practices variables. Average overall of hygienic-sanitary conditions reached 68,08% and this amount classifies those unities as regular. The hygienic-sanitary conditions no correlated positively with the food handlers knowledge and practices self-reported. The inappropriate conditions we noticed at those unities related, specially, to facilities and documentation and registers, and these aspects are not under food handlers’ responsibilities. They should be under responsibility of technical manager at each unity. Results suggest an importance to elucidate issues that influence food handlers’ behavior as a guarantee of a safe meal production e and the need to sensitize unit managers to comply with good practices.

The lateral amyotrophic sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease of unknown etiology, characterized by the motor neuron degeneration, muscle paralysis and death. Oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Copper is a mineral capable of influencing cellular oxidation and lipid profile. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of copper status with lipid profile and functional status in patients with ALS. A cross-sectional study was carried out including 27 patients with ALS (case group) and 26 healthy individuals (control group). Copper status was evaluated by habitual dietary copper intake, plasma copper and serum ceruloplasmin concentrations. The lipid profile included analysis of serum total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-c), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c), and triglycerides (TGL). The functional status of patients with ALS was assessed by the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R). Student's t-test and Mann Whitney's test were used for comparison of means. Correlation between plasma copper and biochemical and dietary markers was made by Spearman's correlation test. The effect of the independent variables on the functional scale was estimated by model based on Poisson distribution. The level of significance adopted was 5%. The case group had lower concentrations of plasma copper compared with the control group (133.9 vs. 164.1 µg/dL, p=0.0001). Also, in the case group, plasma copper was positively correlated with HDL-c (rs=0.398, p=0.044). However, in the control group, plasma copper was positively correlated with serum ceruloplasmin (rs=0.646, p<0.001), TC (rs=0.446, p=0.025), LDL-c (rs=0.445, p=0.029) and HDL-c (rs=0.479, p=0.015). Only in the control group ceruloplasmin was positively correlated with LDL-c (rs=0.407, p=0.043). In the case group, dietary copper intake (B=-0.373, p<0.001), plasma copper (B=-0.005, p=0.033) and TC (B=-0.312; p=0.001) were inversely associated with the functional status of patients with ALS. In contrast, serum ceruloplasmin (B=0.016, p=0.044), LDL-c (B=0.314, p=0.001), HDL-c (B=0.308, p=0.001) and TGL (B=0.062; p=0.001) were positively associated with their functional status. In conclusion, this study suggests a disturbance of copper status and its connection with the lipid profile in patients with ALS. Furthermore, copper status and lipid profile may influence the functional status of patients with ALS, standing out as potential biomarkers to evaluate the severity of the disease.

It has been shown that nitrate supplementation may reduce blood pressure in several populations. However, the effect of beetroot juice on post-exercise blood pressure response has not been studied. The objective of this study is to verify the effect of dietary nitrate supplementation, in the form of beetroot juice, on post-exercise blood pressure response in obese individuals. In a randomized, cross-over trial, 14 normotensive and obese men participated in this study and were randomly assigned to three experimental sessions: 1) beetroot juice with exercise (BJE, 200ml with ≈ 800mg nitrate), 2) fruit soda industrialized with exercise (FSE, 200ml of low-nitrate beverage), considered control with exercise and 3) control without exercise (CON, 200ml of drink with insignificant nitrate content). The exercise performed was of the moderate aerobic type, with intensity of 50% of the reserve heart rate and, lasting 40 minutes. The concentration of nitrites and total plasma nitrates (NOx) was evaluated at three moments of the experimental session: 60 minutes (60min), 105 minutes (105min) and 165 minutes (165min) after drinking. And 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (24h) was also evaluated through ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). For statistical analysis of the data, we used repeated measurements ANOVA and two-way ANOVA with repeated measurements (condition vs. time) for comparisons of variables between the experimental sessions. Statistical significance was set at p <0.05. The results show that the plasma NOx concentration increased significantly only in the BJE session at all times from 60min after the intake of beetroot juice, compared to FSE and CON. Ambulatory systolic blood pressure (SBP) decreased ~ 5.3 mmHg (p <0.05) during the first six hours post-exercise, resulting in a reduction of SBP by ~ 3 mmHg (p <0.05), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) at ~ 2 mmHg (p <0.05) in the 24-hour period after the BJE session compared to FSE and CON sessions. In conclusion, beetroot juice potentiated ambulatory hypotension after exercise (PEH) in obese and normotensive men.

Eating habits in adolescence are characterized by high consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods and it may result in micronutrient deficiency and the early occurrence of chronic non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods and the relationships between the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy and cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 444 adolescents from public schools in the city of Natal, Northeast of Brazil. We investigated the variables family history of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, maternal schooling, anthropometric nutritional status, sexual maturation, blood pressure and lipid profile. Dietary and food intake data were obtained by two 24-hour recalls. The foods consumed were classified according to the type of processing in processed and ultra-processed. The prevalence of micronutrient inadequacy was estimated using the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) as the cut-off point, except for the iron in which the manually determined probabilistic approach was used. An ordinal logistic regression was performed to estimate the relationship between the energy percentage of processed and ultra-processed foods and the prevalence of micronutrient inadequacy and cardiometabolic risk factors. It was observed that 91.9% of adolescents were in the age group between 10 and 13 years. The consumption of processed foods was 10.4 (1.2)% from total energy in 25th-50th percentiles, as well as the consumption of ultra-processed food was 31.5 (2.2)% from total energy also in 25th-50th percentiles. The most consumed food groups were "bread roll" (7.7% of total energy) and "processed meat" (4.8% of total energy) in the processed food group and "cakes, pies and biscuits" (13.3% of total energy) and "sliced loaf" (5% of total energy), in the ultra-processed food group. There was a high prevalence of inadequate consumption of vitamins D, folate, vitamin E, calcium and selenium, in both sexes, in the age groups of 10 to 13 years and of 14 to 19 years. The higher consumption of processed foods was positively associated with the increase in the prevalence of inadequate vitamin B1 (p = 0.04, RP 0.55) and selenium (p <0.01, PR = 1.97). Higher proportions of energy from ultra-processed foods were associated with inadequate vitamin B1 (p = 0.03, PR = 0.49) and zinc (p <0.01, PR = 0.49). The higher consumption of processed food was associated with hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.04, RP = 3.08) and hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.02, PR = 3.79), as well as adolescents whose mothers had elementary schooling level (p <0.01, RP = 1.72). Excessive consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods by adolescents may reflect on an increase in the prevalence of inadequate nutrients, especially vitamin B1, selenium and zinc, as well as being associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, implying damage to health conditions in the short and long term.

The flying fish is one of the resources of economic and social importance available to countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Peru, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Brazil, but the processes related to their loss of freshness unknown. A tool to evaluate the sensory properties of fish freshness, considering specific aspects for each species, is the Quality Index Method (QIM), which provides demerit scores for the attributes of the fish as a function of the deterioration stage. The objective of this study was to develop the QIM to evaluate the freshness of the fish (Hirundichthys affinis, Günther, Günther, 1866), correlating with physical-chemical and microbiological analyzes throughout the storage period. For this purpose candidates were recruited and selected sensory judges by the Farnsworth Munsell Aroma Test and Test of 100 shades. The development of the QIM was done by means of 3 storage tests and were used flying fish specimens captured in Caiçara do Norte, RN, Brazil. Microbiological analyzes (Coliform counts at 45ºC/g, Salmonella sp/25g analysis, Coagulase positive Staphylococcus and total counts of aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophic plaques) and physicochemical analyzes were performed (pH measurement and determination of Total Volatile Bases and Trimethylamine). Then, a QIM scheme was developed with 11 parameters, grouped into 3 main attributes (appearance, eyes and gills) and a Quality Index that presented high linear correlation (r = 0.956) with storage time indicating loss of freshness during the days. The total count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria showed a significant increase (p = 0.009), ranging from 3.20 log CFU/g (1^st day) to 5.61 log CFU/g (19^th day of storage). The total count of mesophilic and psychrotrophic aerobic bacteria showed a strong and significant correlation with storage time (r = 0.705, p < 0.001 and r = 0.934 p <0.001, respectively), ranging from 3.20 log CFU/g (1^st day) 5.61 log UFC / g (19^th day storage) and 2.0 log UFC/g (1^st day) at 8.18 log UFC/g (19^th day storage), respectively. Salmonella was not detected. Coagulase positive Staphylococcus (4.0x10² CFU/g) and coliforms at 45ºC (3.6 NMP/g) were found in a 9th day storage sample. An average pH with a linear and continuous increase (p < 0.001), ranging from 6.23 (1^st day) to 6.88 (19^th day). As averages of TVB-N and TMA-N ranged respectively from 25.19 (1^st day) to 39.42 mg TVB-N/100 g (19^th day) and 6.58 (1^st day) to 12.17 mg (p <0.001 and p < 0.001) with a strong and significant linear correlation (r = 0.923, p < 0.001 and r = 0.747, p < 0.001) with storage time. As averages of Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) ranged from 0.08 (1^st day) to 2.52 MA / Kg (22^nd day). The Principal Component Analysis suggests that the flying fish remain with an acceptable degree of freshness for up to 9 days, considering the analyzes and ice storage conditions used in this study.

Trypsin inhibitors are studied in a variety of models for their anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory bioactive properties. Our group has previously demonstrated the satietogenic effect of tamarind seed trypsin inhibitors (TTI) in eutrophic mouse models and anti-inflammatory effects of other trypsin inhibitors. In this study, we evaluated TTI effect upon satiety, biochemical and inflammatory parameters in an experimental model of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Three groups of n=5 male Wistar rats with obesity-based MetS received for 10 days one of the following: 1) Cafeteria diet; 2) Cafeteria diet + TTI (25 mg/Kg); 3) Standard diet. TTI reduced food intake in animals with MetS. Nevertheless, weight gain was not different between studied groups. Dyslipidemia parameters were not different with the use of TTI, only the group receiving standard diet showed lower VLDL and TG (Kruskal-Wallis, p < 0.05). IL-6 production did not differ between groups. Interestingly, TNF-α was lower in animals receiving TTI. Our results corroborate the satietogenic effect of TTI in a MetS model. Furthermore, we show that TTI used with a cafeteria diet may decrease inflammation regardless of weight loss. This puts TTI as a candidate for studies to test its effectiveness as an adjuvant in MetS treatment.  

Cancer is a group of several diseases that have in common an uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells, and it can occur at anywhere in the body. The most frequent tumors in childhood and adolescence are the leukemias, and the Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most prevalent. The evidenced malnutrition in these patients is related to anorexia-cachexia syndrome triggered by the disease, but also on changes in appetite, which occur during chemotherapy and interfere in the nutritional status as well as in response to antineoplasic therapy. Although it recognized a possible influence of hormones related to appetite on the changes in food consumption of ALL patients during chemotherapy, few studies have investigated the hormonal changes in patients with childhood cancers. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status and levels of key hormones related to appetite in children and adolescents with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in the induction phase of chemotherapy. For this purpose, it was assessed 14 children/adolescents diagnosed with LLA during the 28 days of induction chemotherapy cycle. At baseline (prior to initiation of chemotherapy), in the middle and at the end of this cycle were performed anthropometric measurement, weighted food record 24 hours and biochemical and hormone levels were obtained. It were evaluated the following hormones related to appetite: leptin, ghrelin, insulin and cortisol. Most patients had normal weight at the beginning of treatment which did not change significantly during the induction cycle. The dietary intake increased over the cycle, particularly in relation to proteins and lipids intake from the beginning to the end of treatment. Platelet levels and transaminase glutamic pyruvic significantly increased, and a significant reduction in blood glucose, creatinine and sodium levels were observed. Regarding appetite hormones, ghrelin significantly increased between the baseline and the half of the cycle (p = 0.027), but not through the end. In conclusion, the LLA treatment induction period caused an increase in energy and nutrients intake, as well as an increase in the concentration of ghrelin, but no impact on the anthropometric status of patients or in other hormones related to appetite.

The faveleira (Cnidoscolus quercifolius) has oilseeds that can be used for obtaining vegetable oil. One way of obtaining oil is by cold pressing, in which to get the oil and the by-product, herein named press cake. The seed and its derivatives have potential for use in human food and to present bioactive activities, therefore, this work focuses on the physicochemical evaluation of faveleira oil, as well as it investigates the bioactive properties of faveleira seeds, faveleira oil and the press cake obtained during the oilseed processing. The seeds were cold pressed and the following tests were performed: physicochemical characteristics (acidity, peroxide values, moisture and volatile matter, density and  viscosity) e fatty acid profile of faveleira oil; total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of faveleira seed and press cake; antibacterial activity of seed, oil and press cake; and antioxidant activity (DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power assay, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide radical scavenging assay e oxygen radical absorbance capacity) of seed, oil and press cake. Acidity (0,78 ± 0,03% oleic acid), peroxide values (1,13 ± 0,12 mEq/1000g) and moisture (0,25 ± 0,03%) are low; and density (0,9136 ± 0,00 g/cm³) and viscosity (0,0546 ± 0,16 Pa.s) are close to what was observed for others edible oil. Unsaturated fatty acids are predominant in faveleira oil (72,42%). The most abundant fatty acid found was linoleic acid (53.56%), followed by oleic acid (17.78%). The seed and press cake has high amount of total phenolic content (324,92±6,69 mg EAG/100 g e 398,89±6,34 mg EAG/100 g, respectively), including flavonoid content (18,70±1,23 mg RE/g e 29,81±0,71 mg RE/g, respectively). The press cake has higher amounts of bioactive compounds than seed. No bacterial growth inhibition was detected, but all samples including faveleira seeds, press cake, oil and its fractions have potent antioxidant activities, mainly the press cake. Our results also show that faveleira oil has potential to be used as edible oil and the press cake should be used to contain the most antioxidants from seed.

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a multifactorial disease whose pathophysiological alterations that might compromise zinc status. The aim of this study was to evaluate zinc status biomarkers and their associations with cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with MS. This is a study case-control, developed with 88 adults and elderly with SM, according to the NCEP / ATP-III, and 37 individuals without MS or other clinical condition with influence on zinc status. Clinical and anthropometric assessments were performed and lipid, glycemic, and inflammatory profiles were also obtained. It was evaluated zinc intake, plasma zinc, erythrocyte zinc, and urinary zinc excretion levels. Differences between groups were evaluated by regression models, considering adjustment covariates. Correlations were identified by Pearson coefficient (r). The significance level was 5%. The average age of participants was 50 (11) years and 44 (11) years for the group of patients with MS and controls, respectively, with female predominance in both groups. The average energy intake was significantly higher in patients with MS (p = 0.003) and dietary intake in both groups was characterized as high percentage of protein intake, and a proper percentage of carbohydrate and fat intake. Zinc intake average was significantly lower in MS group compared with control group (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in plasma zinc levels (p > 0.05). It was found significantly higher erythrocyte zinc levels in the MS group (p < 0.001) independent from co-variable adjustments. Urinary zinc excretion level was significantly higher in the MS group (p = 0.008), and adjustments for age and sex explained 21% of the difference, (R² = 0.21, p < 0.001). SM group were found significant associations between zincuria and fasting blood glucose level (r = 0.479), waist circumference (r = 0.253), triglyceride levels (r = 0.360), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels (r = 0.250), homeostatic model assessment - insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (r = 0.223) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels  (hs-PCR) (r = 0.427) (all p < 0.05). We confirmed the impairments in zinc status in MS group, characterized by increasing the erythrocytes zinc and higher zincuria, despite the inadequacies of zinc intake. Alterations in cardiometabolic risk factors influence zincuria in patients with MS.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD)  is the leading cause of death worldwide, that can be triggered by alterations in the serum profile of fatty acids, by patterns of gene expression, changes in dietary intake, and alteration anthropometric. The early diagnosis of this pathophysiology is a challenge in translational medicine, since the methods used are expensive and / or invasive. Purpose: To identify biomarkers for the early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases through the relationship of biomolecules (fatty acids and ECDHC3) and nutritional status (anthropometry, food consumption and dietary intake) with extensions of coronary lesion. Material and methods: The study was observational, with the sample collected for convenience in two casuistry in the Hemodynamics sector of the Onofre Lopes University Hospital (HUOL), 59 patients (n1, 2011-2013) and the second included 41 individuals ( N2, 2014-2015), both aged 30-74 years and who were undergoing coronary angiography for the first time. The extent of atherosclerotic lesions was determined by Friesinger index, the biochemical profile by semi-automated spectrometry; the concentration of fatty acids by gas chromatography; gene expression of ECHDC3 mRNA by real-time PCR; food consumption and dietary intake for two 24-hour dietary intake recalls and anthropometric parameters by the electric bioimpedance, measuring tape and stadiometer scale. Results: Patients were classified into groups: no lesion (n1 = 18 / n2 = 8), low lesions (n1 = 17 / n2 = 6), intermediate lesions (n1 = 17 / n2 = 15) and major lesion (n1= 7 / n2 = 12). In n1 was observed high serum concentrations of oleic acid and monounsaturated fatty acids in patients with low lesions and intermediate when compared to patients without lesions (p <0.05). ECHDC3 expression was 1.2 fold-higher in patients with low lesions than in patients without lesions (p = 0.023), and 1.8 fold- lower in patients with major lesions than in patients without lesions (p = 0.020). In the second casuistry, the expression of ECHDC3 was 1.93 fold-higher in patients with intermediate lesions than in low lesions (p = 0.011) and 1.91 fold-higher in patients with severe lesions than in low lesions (p = 0.013). Spearman's analysis showed a positive correlation between Friesinger's index and ECHDC3 expression (r = 0.327, p = 0.037), but negative with zinc intake (r = -0.317, p = 0.044). The expression of ECHDC3 was positively correlated with the percentage of visceral fat (r = 0.416, p = 0.009) and the percentage was positively correlated with the protein (r = 0.392, p = 0.015). Protein intake had a strong correlation with zinc intake (r = 0.807, p <0.001). Conclusions: It was verified that oleic acid serum level, ECHDC3 expression, percentage of visceral fat, protein consumption may be involved with the progression of CVD, while lower zinc intake could influence the extent of coronary lesion.

Astaxanthin is found naturally in shrimp residues and can be extracted in varying ways. The extraction with vegetable oil contributes to stability from this carotenoid, retarding its oxidation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and physical-chemical characteristics and the antioxidant capacity of the pigmented oils obtained from the extraction of astaxanthin from the shrimp waste (litopenaeus vannamei). The obtained pigmented oils of the shrimp waste (OW) and of the shrimp waste flour (OF) were evaluated for astaxanthin content, physical and physico-chemical characteristics and antioxidant capacity. The samples of OW and OF showed an astaxanthin content of 70.9 and 264.7 μg / g, respectively, where the decrease in moisture was responsible for this increase of 3.7 times. Likewise, its antioxidant power is directly associated with the astaxanthin content, however, some physical and physico-chemical characteristics of OF presented changes. Therefore, the pigmented oils from shrimp waste present a significant potential for the use in food as a natural antioxidant due to its antioxidant power, as well as the low price to obtain it.