Breast milk as the gold standard for protective nutrients

Using integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore the effects of infant formula on the growth and development of small intestinal organoids

Infant formulas are designed to provide sufficient energy and the necessary nutrients to support the growth and development of newborns. Currently, research on the functions of formula milk powder focuses on clinical research and cell experiments, and there were many cell experiments that investigated the effect of infant formulas on cellular growth. However, most of the cells used are tumor cell lines, which are unable to simulate the real digestion process of an infant. In this study, we innovatively proposed a method that integrates human small intestinal organoids (SIOs) with transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis. We induced directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into SIOs and simulated the intestinal environment of newborns with them. Then, three kinds of 1-stage infant formulas from the same brand were introduced to simulate the digestion, absorption, and metabolism of the infant intestine. The nutritional value of each formula milk powder was examined by multi-omics sequencing methods, including transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis. Results showed that there were significant alterations in gene expression and metabolites in the three groups of SIOs after absorbing different infant formulas. By analyzing transcriptome and metabolome data, combined with GO, KEGG, and GSEA analysis, we demonstrated the ability of SIOs to model the different aspects of the developing process of the intestine and discovered the correlation between formula components and their effects, including Lactobacillus lactis and lactoferrin. The study reveals the effect and mechanisms of formula milk powder on the growth and development of infant intestines and the formation of immune function. Furthermore, our method can help to construct a multi-level assessment model, detect the effects of nutrients, and evaluate the interactions between nutrients, which is helpful for future research and development of infant powders.

Online pilot intervention to improve nutritional and lifestyle in Spanish breast-feeding women

Introduction

Introduction: breastfeeding women often cannot adequately follow dietary and healthy habits recommendations. In addition, after delivery, their care is usually focused on the newborn and the mother´s health may be neglected. The Mediterranean Diet is the standard of healthy eating, with the Healthy Food Pyramid (HFP) being its graphic representation. Objective: the aim of this study was to determine whether a nutritional and lifestyle online intervention may improve HFP adherence in breastfeeding women. Methods: a total of 181 breastfeeding women in the first sixth months postpartum were enrolled in a non-randomized interventional pilot study. These women answered three questionnaires: sociodemographic and for adherence to Healthy Food Pyramid (APQ), before and after an online intervention for 13 weeks, providing information about nutrition and healthy habits. The APQ ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores corresponding to greater adherence to HFP. The intervention consisted of lifestyle and nutritional information, which was provided through e-mail. Results: a low adherence to HFP was found, which was improved after 13 weeks of intervention. The online intervention significantly increased the scores for physical activity, grain, seeds and legumes consumption, olive oil use, dairy products, and ani-mal proteins, as well as the HFP adherence global score. The adjusted models showed that the online intervention was associated with adherence to the HFP and physical activity. Conclusion: we conclude that an online intervention for breastfeeding women had an impact on their lifestyle, improving nutritional and healthy habits, and can be a useful tool to monitor their health status. Given the importance of this stage for women and their newborns, this is an aspect postnatal healthcare professionals should consider.

Infant feeding and criticality in children

BACKGROUND

Data support the protective effects of human breast milk (HBM) feeding in acute illness but little is known about the impact of HBM feeding on the criticality of infants.

AIM

To explore the relationship between early HBM feeding and severity of illness and recovery in critically ill children requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation for acute respiratory failure (ARF).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study of mothers of patients aged 1-36 months who participated in the acute and follow-up phases of the Randomized Evaluation of Sedation Titration for Respiratory Failure (RESTORE) clinical trial. Participants completed a survey describing HBM dose fed during their infant's first month of life.

RESULTS

Of 138 patients, 70 (51%) received exclusive HBM feedings (90%-100% total feeds) and 68 (49%) did not. We found no group differences in severity of illness on paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission or severity of paediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) within the first 24-48 h of intubation/mechanical ventilation (Pediatric Risk of Mortality [PRISM] III-12 score median: 5 vs. 5, p = .88; moderate/severe PARDS: 53% vs. 54%, p = .63). While median time to recovery from ARF was reduced by 1 day in patients who received exclusive HBM feedings, the difference between groups was not statistically significant (median 1.5 vs. 2.6 days, hazard ratio 1.40 [95% confidence interval, 0.99-1.97], p = .06).

CONCLUSIONS

Human breast milk dose was not associated with severity of illness on PICU admission in children requiring mechanical ventilation for ARF.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Data support the protective effects of HBM during acute illness and data from this study support a clinically important reduction in time to recovery of ARF. Paediatric nurses should continue to champion HBM feeding to advance improvements in infant health.

Personalized Nutrition with Banked Human Milk for Early Gut Microbiota Development: In Pursuit of the Perfect Match

The correct initial colonization and establishment of the gut microbiota during the early stages of life is a key step, with long-lasting consequences throughout the entire lifespan of the individual. This process is affected by several perinatal factors; among them, feeding mode is known to have a critical role. Breastfeeding is the optimal nutrition for neonates; however, it is not always possible, especially in cases of prematurity or early pathology. In such cases, most commonly babies are fed with infant formulas in spite of the official nutritional and health international organizations' recommendation on the use of donated human milk through milk banks for these cases. However, donated human milk still does not totally match maternal milk in terms of infant growth and gut microbiota development. The present review summarizes the practices of milk banks and hospitals regarding donated human milk, its safety and quality, and the health outcomes in infants fed with donated human milk. Additionally, we explore different alternatives to customize pasteurized donated human milk with the aim of finding the perfect match between each baby and banked milk for promoting the establishment of a beneficial gut microbiota from the early stages of life.

Science and Faith to Understand Milk Bioactivity for Infants

Milk bioactivity refers to the specific health effects of milk components beyond nutrition. The science of milk bioactivity involves the systematic study of these components and their health effects, as verified by empirical data, controlled experiments, and logical arguments. Conversely, 'faith in milk bioactivity' can be defined as personal opinion, meaning, value, trust, and hope for health effects that are beyond investigation by natural, social, or human sciences. Faith can be strictly secular, but also influenced by spirituality or religion. The aim of this paper is to show that scientific knowledge is frequently supplemented with faith convictions to establish personal and public understanding of milk bioactivity. Mammalian milk is an immensely complex fluid containing myriad proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and micronutrients with multiple functions across species, genetics, ages, environments, and cultures. Human health includes not only physical health, but also social, mental, and spiritual health, requiring widely different fields of science to prove the relevance, safety, and efficacy of milk interventions. These complex relationships between milk feeding and health outcomes prevent firm conclusions based on science and logic alone. Current beliefs in and understanding of the value of breast milk, colostrum, infant formula, or isolated milk proteins (e.g., immunoglobulins, α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, and growth factors) show that both science and faith contribute to understand, stimulate, or restrict the use of milk bioactivity. The benefits of breastfeeding for infants are beyond doubt, but the strong beliefs in its health effects rely not only on science, and mechanisms are unclear. Likewise, fear of, or trust in, infant formula may rely on both science and faith. Knowledge from science safeguards individuals and society against 'milk bioactivity superstition'. Conversely, wisdom from faith-based convictions may protect science from unrealistic 'milk bioactivity scientism'. Honesty and transparency about the potentials and limitations of both scientific knowledge and faith convictions are important when informing individuals and society about the nutritious and bioactive qualities of milk.

Maternal immunoglobulin G affects brain development of mouse offspring

Maternal immunoglobulin (Ig)G is present in breast milk and has been shown to contribute to the development of the immune system in infants. In contrast, maternal IgG has no known effect on early childhood brain development. We found maternal IgG immunoreactivity in microglia, which are resident macrophages of the central nervous system of the pup brain, peaking at postnatal one week. Strong IgG immunoreactivity was observed in microglia in the corpus callosum and cerebellar white matter. IgG stimulation of primary cultured microglia activated the type I interferon feedback loop by Syk. Analysis of neonatal Fc receptor knockout (FcRn KO) mice that could not take up IgG from their mothers revealed abnormalities in the proliferation and/or survival of microglia, oligodendrocytes, and some types of interneurons. Moreover, FcRn KO mice also exhibited abnormalities in social behavior and lower locomotor activity in their home cages. Thus, changes in the mother-derived IgG levels affect brain development in offsprings.

Human Milk-The Biofluid That Nourishes Infants from the First Day of Life

Human milk is a biofluid with a unique composition among mammalian milks. Besides this milk's major components, its bioactive compounds, like hormones, immune factors, and oligosaccharides, are unique and important for infant growth and development. The best form of nutrition for term and preterm infants is the mother's own milk. However, in the absence of the mother's own milk, donor milk should be made available. Milk banks support neonatal intensive care units by providing preterm infants with human milk that generally has reasonable nutritive value for this sensitive population. However, neither mother's own milk nor donor milk has sufficient energy content for the growth of preterm babies, so adequate human milk supplementation is crucial for their progress. Due to the different characteristics of human breast milk, as well as ubiquitous environmental pollutants, such as microplastics, new methods are required for monitoring the quality and characteristics of human milk, which will lay a solid foundation for the further development and progress of human milk research.

Prenatal, perinatal and parental risk factors for autism spectrum disorder in China: a case- control study

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is heritable neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), but environmental risk factors have also been suggested to a play a role in its development. Prenatal, perinatal and parental factors have been associated with an increased risk of ASD in children. The aim of the present study was to explore the prenatal, perinatal, and parenting risk factors in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from Beijing, China by comparing them with typically developing (TD) children.

METHODS

A sample of 151 ASD children's parents who from rehabilitation institutions in Beijing were enrolled in this study, and an additional 151 children from kindergartens in Beijing were recruited as a control group (child age: mean = 4.4 years). TD children were matched according to age, sex and maternal education. We explored the maternal AQ (Autism Spectrum Quotient) scores (mean:19.40-19.71, no significant difference between two groups) to referring the genetic baseline. This study evaluated 17 factors with unadjusted and adjusted analyses.

RESULTS

Birth asphyxia was associated with a more than a thirteen-fold higher risk of ASD (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 13.42). Breastfeeding difficulties were associated with a higher risk of ASD(AOR = 3.46). Parenting influenced the risk of ASD, with low responding (LR) and harsh or neglectful parenting associated with a higher risk of ASD in offspring (AOR = 2.37 for LR, AOR = 3.42 for harsh parenting and AOR = 3.01 for neglectful parenting). Maternal fever during pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of ASD in offspring (AOR = 3.81).

CONCLUSIONS

Many factors were associated with ASD in offspring. Further assessment is needed to elucidate the role of modifiable environmental factors to inform prevention strategies.

Breast milk preservation: thermal and non-thermal processes and their effect on microorganism inactivation and the content of bioactive and nutritional compounds

Human Breast Milk (HBM) is widely acknowledged as the best nutritional source for neonates. Data indicates that, in 2019, 83.2% of infants in the United States received breast milk at birth, slightly reducing to 78.6% at 1 month. Despite these encouraging early figures, exclusive breastfeeding rates sharply declined, dropping to 24.9% by 6 months. This decline is particularly pronounced when direct breastfeeding is challenging, such as in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and for working mothers. Given this, it is vital to explore alternative breast milk preservation methods. Technologies like Holder Pasteurization (HoP), High-Temperature Short-Time Pasteurization (HTST), High-Pressure Processing (HPP), UV radiation (UV), and Electric Pulses (PEF) have been introduced to conserve HBM. This review aims to enhance the understanding of preservation techniques for HBM, supporting the practice of extended exclusive breastfeeding. It explicitly addresses microbial concerns, focusing on critical pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Cytomegalovirus, and explores how various preservation methods can mitigate these risks. Additionally, the review highlights the importance of retaining the functional elements of HBM, particularly its immunological components such as antibodies and enzymes like lysozyme and Bile Salt Stimulated Lipase (BSSL). The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of HBM treatment, critically assess existing practices, identify areas needing improvement, and advocate for extended exclusive breastfeeding due to its vital role in ensuring optimal nutrition and overall health in infants.

Comparative evaluation of enriched formula milk powder with OPO and MFGM vs. breastfeeding and regular formula milk powder in full-term infants: a comprehensive study on gut microbiota, neurodevelopment, and growth

This study investigated the non-inferiority of feeding term healthy infants with enriched formula milk powder containing 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) and milk fat globular membrane (MFGM), compared to breast milk, in terms of the formation of gut microbiota, neurodevelopment and growth. Infants were divided into three groups: breast milk group (BMG, N = 50), fortified formula group (FFG, N = 17), and regular formula group (RFG, N = 12), based on the feeding pattern. Growth and development information was collected from the infants at one month, four months, and six months after the intervention. Fecal samples were collected from infants and analyzed for gut microbiota using 16S ribosomal DNA identification. The study found that at the three time points, the predominant bacterial phyla in FFG and BMG were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes, which differed from RFG. The abundance of Bifidobacterium in the RFG was lower than the FFG (one month, p = 0.019) and BMG (four months, p = 0.007). The abundance of Methanoprebacteria and so on (genus level) are positively correlated with bone mineral density (BMD) of term infants, and have the potential to be biomarkers for predicting BMD. The abundance of beta-galactosidase, a protein that regulates lactose metabolism and sphingoid metabolism, was higher in FFG (six months, p = 0.0033) and BMG (one month, p = 0.0089; four months, p = 0.0005; six months, p = 0.0005) than in the RFG group, which may be related to the superior bone mineral density and neurodevelopment of infants in the FFG and BMG groups than in the RFG group. Our findings suggest that formula milk powder supplemented with OPO and MFGM is a viable alternative to breastfeeding, providing a practical alternative for infants who cannot be breastfed for various reasons.

Breastfeeding Duration and Cardiometabolic Health during Adolescence: A Longitudinal Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the longitudinal association between breastfeeding duration and cardiometabolic health, using repeated measures study design among children and adolescents.

STUDY DESIGN

This study included 634 offsprings aged 10 to 21 years (52% female) from the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants birth cohort followed up to four time points during adolescence. Breastfeeding duration was prospectively quantified using questionnaires during early childhood. Cardiometabolic risk factors, body composition, and weight-related biomarkers were assessed as outcomes during adolescent follow-up visits. Sex-stratified linear mixed-effects models were used to model the association between quartiles of breastfeeding duration and outcomes, adjusting for age and additional covariates.

RESULTS

Median breastfeeding duration was 7 months (minimum = 0, maximum = 36). Boys in the second quartile (median breastfeeding = 5 months) had lower total fat mass % (β (SE) -3.2 (1.5) P = .037), and higher lean mass % (3.1 (1.6) P = .049) and skeletal muscle mass % (1.8 (0.8) P = .031) compared with the reference group (median breastfeeding = 2 months). A positive linear trend between breastfeeding duration and trunk lean mass % (0.1 (0.04) P = .035) was found among girls. No association was found with other cardiometabolic indicators.

CONCLUSION

Despite sex-specific associations of breastfeeding duration with body composition, there was a lack of substantial evidence for the protective effects of breastfeeding against impaired cardiometabolic health during adolescence among Mexican youth. Further longitudinal studies with a robust assessment of breastfeeding are recommended.

Breastfeeding Characteristics and Duration of Feeding Human Milk in Infants With Congenital Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Although infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) are able to breastfeed successfully, the factors that affect feeding human milk across the first year are not well established.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to examine breastfeeding characteristics and their relationships to the exclusivity and duration of feeding human milk among infants with CHD.

METHODS

Breastfeeding characteristics data from a cohort of 75 infants with CHD enrolled in a study that examined relationships among milk type and infant growth in the first year of life were analyzed.

RESULTS

Infants whose mothers reported not having enough milk were exclusively fed human milk for a shorter duration than those who did not have this challenge ( P = .04); however, the duration of feeding any human milk did not differ ( P = .18). Average daily volume expressed at 1 month was positively related to the duration of exclusive human milk (β = .07, P = .04) and any human milk (β = .07, P = .04) feeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Future efforts to support feeding human milk in infants with CHD should emphasize practices that support maximal human milk production.

Nutritional and health effects of bovine colostrum in neonates

High concentrations of immunoglobulins, bioactive peptides, and growth factors are found in bovine colostrum (BC), the milk produced by cows in the first few days after parturition. Various biological functions make it increasingly used to provide nutritional support and immune protection to the offspring of many species, including humans. These biological functions include cell growth stimulation, anti-infection, and immunomodulation. The primary components and biological functions of colostrum were reviewed in the literature, and the authors also looked at its latent effects on the growth and development of neonates as well as on conditions such as infections, necrotizing enterocolitis, short bowel syndrome, and feeding intolerance. The importance of BC in neonatal nutrition, immune support, growth and development, and gut health has been demonstrated in a number of experimental and animal studies. BC has also been shown to be safe at low doses without adverse effects in newborns. BC supplementation has been shown to be efficient in preventing several disorders, including rotavirus diarrhea, necrotizing enterocolitis, and sepsis in animal models of prematurity and some newborn studies. Therefore, BC supplementation should be considered in cases where maternal milk is insufficient or donor milk is unavailable. The optimal age, timing, dosage, and form of BC administration still require further investigation.

Identification and analysis of miRNAs expression profiles in human, bovine, and donkey milk exosomes

The purpose of this study is to identify and characterize mirnas in mammalian exosomes. Using Illumina sequencing technology, we sequenced miRNAs in the exosomes of mammalian human milk, bovine milk, and donkey milk. 36 known mature miRNAs and 256 novel miRNAs were identified in human milk. 61 known mature miRNAs and 346 novel miRNAs were identified in milk. 16 known mature miRNAs and 196 novel miRNAs were identified in donkey milk, and miRNAs target genes were predicted. Gene Ontology analysis showed that the miRNAs of human, bovine and donkey milk exosomes all labeled the functions related to body metabolism. Kyoto Encyclopedia pathway analysis showed that human, bovine and donkey milk miRNAs enriched AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in Complications of diabetes. Diabetes is a Metabolic disorder. Based on this pathway, we screened out hsa-miR-8485, bta-miR-342, miR-29c and other genes related to diabetes. This study has a new understanding of the physiological function of mammalian milk miRNAs, and also provides a new way to explore diabetes related miRNAs.

Early Pre- and Postoperative Enteral Nutrition and Growth in Infants with Symptomatic Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVES

 Nutritional support during the neonatal and postoperative period in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is challenging and controversial. We aimed to report on early enteral nutritional support in symptomatic CDH patients during the pre- and postoperative period, including feasibility, associated factors with established full enteral nutrition, and weight at birth, discharge, and 18 months.

METHODS

 We retrospectively collected data on nutrition: type and volume of enteral nutrition and parental support. Enteral feeding was introduced preoperatively from day 1 after birth, increased step-wised (breastmilk preferred), and resumed after CDH repair on the first postoperative day. Baseline data were available from our CDH database.

RESULTS

 From 2011 to 2020, we identified 45 CDH infants. Twenty-two were girls (51.1%), 35 left sided (77.8%), and 40 underwent CDH repair (88.9%). Median (interquartile range) length of stay in the pediatric intensive care unit was 14.6 days (6.0-26.5), and 1-year mortality was 17.8%.Postoperatively, 120 and 160 mL/kg/d of enteral nutrition was achieved after a median of 6.5 (3.6-12.6) and 10.6 (7.6-21.7) days, respectively. In total, 31 (68.9%) needed supplemental parenteral nutrition in a median period of 8 days (5-18), and of those 11 had parenteral nutrition initiated before CDH repair. No complications to enteral feeding were reported.

CONCLUSION

 Early enteral nutrition in CDH infants is feasible and may have the potential to reduce the need for parental nutrition and reduce time to full enteral nutrition in the postoperative period.

The core phageome and its interrelationship with preterm human milk lipids

Phages and lipids in human milk (HM) may benefit preterm infant health by preventing gastrointestinal pathobiont overgrowth and microbiome modulation. Lipid association may promote vertical transmission of phages to the infant. Despite this, interrelationships between lipids and phages are poorly characterized in preterm HM. Shotgun metagenomics and untargeted lipidomics of phage and lipid profiles from 99 preterm HM samples reveals that phages are abundant and prevalent from the first week and throughout the first 100 days of lactation. Phage-host richness of preterm HM increases longitudinally. Core phage communities characterized by Staphylococcus- and Propionibacterium-infecting phages are significantly correlated with long-chain fatty acid abundances over lactational age. We report here a phage-lipid interaction in preterm HM, highlighting the potential importance of phage carriage in preterm HM. These results reveal possible strategies for phage carriage in HM and their importance in early-life microbiota development.

Methionine Promotes Milk Protein Synthesis via the PI3K-mTOR Signaling Pathway in Human Mammary Epithelial Cells

Breast milk is widely considered to be the most natural, safe, and complete food for infants. However, current breastfeeding rates fall short of the recommendations established by the World Health Organization. Despite this, there are few studies that have focused on the promotion of human lactation through nutrient supplementation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of methionine on milk synthesis in human mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A cells) and to explore the underlying mechanisms. To achieve this, MCF-10A cells were cultured with varying concentrations of methionine, ranging from 0 to 1.2 mM. Our results indicated that 0.6 mM of methionine significantly promoted the synthesis of milk protein. An RNA-seq analysis revealed that methionine acted through the PI3K pathway. This finding was validated through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. In addition, PI3K inhibition assays confirmed that methionine upregulated the expression of both mTOR and p-mTOR through activation of PI3K. Taken together, these findings suggest that methionine positively regulates milk protein synthesis in MCF-10A cells through the PI3K-mTOR signaling pathway.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides: A Critical Review on Structure, Preparation, Their Potential as a Food Bioactive Component, and Future Perspectives

Human milk is the gold standard for infant feeding. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a unique group of oligosaccharides in human milk. Great interest in HMOs has grown in recent years due to their positive effects on various aspects of infant health. HMOs provide various physiologic functions, including establishing a balanced infant's gut microbiota, strengthening the gastrointestinal barrier, preventing infections, and potential support to the immune system. However, the clinical application of HMOs is challenging due to their specificity to human milk and the difficulties and high costs associated with their isolation and synthesis. Here, the differences in oligosaccharides in human and other mammalian milk are compared, and the synthetic strategies to access HMOs are summarized. Additionally, the potential use and molecular mechanisms of HMOs as a new food bioactive component in different diseases, such as infection, necrotizing enterocolitis, diabetes, and allergy, are critically reviewed. Finally, the current challenges and prospects of HMOs in basic research and application are discussed.

Viruses and Human Milk: Transmission or Protection?

Human milk (HM) is considered the best source of nutrition for infant growth and health. This nourishment is unique and changes constantly during lactation to adapt to the physiological needs of the developing infant. It is also recognized as a potential route of transmission of some viral pathogens although the presence of a virus in HM rarely leads to a disease in an infant. This intriguing paradox can be explained by considering the intrinsic antiviral properties of HM. In this comprehensive and schematically presented review, we have described what viruses have been detected in HM so far and what their potential transmission risk through breastfeeding is. We have provided a description of all the antiviral compounds of HM, along with an analysis of their demonstrated and hypothesized mechanisms of action. Finally, we have also analyzed the impact of HM pasteurization and storage methods on the detection and transmission of viruses, and on the antiviral compounds of HM. We have highlighted that there is currently a deep knowledge on the potential transmission of viral pathogens through breastfeeding and on the antiviral properties of HM. The current evidence suggests that, in most cases, it is unnecessarily to deprive an infant of this high-quality nourishment and that the continuation of breastfeeding is in the best interest of the infant and the mother.

β-Sitosterol Suppresses Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation and Lipogenesis Disorder in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells

β-sitosterol, a natural plant steroid, has been shown to promote anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in the body. In this study, β-sitosterol was used to protect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell damage in bovine mammary epithelial cells, which are commonly studied as a cell model of mammary inflammatory response and lipogenesis. Results showed that treatment with a combination of LPS and β-sitosterol significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, while increasing the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins and activating the hypoxia-inducible factor-1(HIF-1α)/mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR) signaling pathway to inhibit apoptosis and improve lipid synthesis-related gene expression. Our finding suggests that β-sitosterol has the potential to alleviate inflammation in the mammary gland.

Human milk oligosaccharide lacto-N-tetraose: Physiological functions and synthesis methods

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) have attracted considerable attention due to their unique role in boosting infant health. Among the HMOs, lacto-N-tetraose (LNT) is a significant constituent associated with various health benefits, such as prebiotic effects, antiadhesive antimicrobials, antiviral protection, and immune modulators. LNT has received a "Generally Recognized as Safe" status by the American Food and Drug Administration and was approved as a food ingredient for infant formula. However, the limited availability of LNT poses a major challenge for its application in food and medicine. In this review, we first explored the physiological functions of LNT. Next, we describe several synthesis methods for production of LNT, including chemical, enzymatic, and cell factory approaches, and summarize the pivotal research results. Finally, challenges and opportunities for the large-scale synthesis of LNT were discussed.

Body Fat-Reducing Effects of Whey Protein Diet in Male Mice

This study investigated the mechanism of reducing body fat via whey protein diet. Pregnant mice were fed whey or casein, and their offspring were fed by birth mothers. After weaning at 4 weeks, male pups received the diets administered to their birth mothers (n = 6 per group). At 12 weeks of age, body weight, fat mass, fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin (IRI), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), cholesterol (Cho), triglyceride (TG), the expression levels of lipid metabolism-related genes in liver tissues and metabolomic data of fat tissues were measured and compared between the groups. The birth weights of pups born were similar in the two groups. Compared to the pups in the casein group, at 12 weeks of age, pups in the whey group weighed less, had significantly lower fat mass, HOMA-IR and TG levels (p < 0.01, p = 0.02, p = 0.01, respectively), and significantly higher levels of the antioxidant glutathione and the anti-inflammatory 1-methylnicotinamide in fat tissues (p < 0.01, p = 0.04, respectively). No differences were observed in FBG, IRI, Cho levels (p = 0.75, p = 0.07, p = 0.63, respectively) and expression levels of lipid metabolism-related genes. Whey protein has more antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than casein protein, which may be its mechanism for reducing body fat.

Structure-function relationship and impact on the gut-immune barrier function of non-digestible carbohydrates and human milk oligosaccharides applicable for infant formula

Human milk oligosaccharides (hMOs) in mothers' milk play a crucial role in guiding the colonization of microbiota and gut-immune barrier development in infants. Non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) such as synthetic single hMOs, galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), inulin-type fructans and pectin oligomers have been added to infant formula to substitute some hMOs' functions. HMOs and NDCs can modulate the gut-immune barrier, which is a multiple-layered functional unit consisting of microbiota, a mucus layer, gut epithelium, and the immune system. There is increasing evidence that the structures of the complex polysaccharides may influence their efficacy in modulating the gut-immune barrier. This review focuses on the role of different structures of individual hMOs and commonly applied NDCs in infant formulas in (i) direct regulation of the gut-immune barrier in a microbiota-independent manner and in (ii) modulation of microbiota composition and microbial metabolites of these polysaccharides in a microbiota-dependent manner. Both have been shown to be essential for guiding the development of an adequate immune barrier, but the effects are very dependent on the structural features of hMO or NDC. This knowledge might lead to tailored infant formulas for specific target groups.

Protein-caloric restriction induced HPA axis activation and altered the milk composition imprint metabolism of weaned rat offspring

OBJECTIVES

Maternal protein-caloric restriction during lactation can malprogram offspring into having a lean phenotype associated with metabolic dysfunction in early life and adulthood. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between nutritional stress, maternal behavior and metabolism, milk composition, and offspring parameters. Additionally, we focused on the role of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis hyperactivation during lactation.

METHODS

Dams were fed a low-protein diet (4% protein) during the first 2 wk of lactation or a normal-protein diet (20% protein) during all lactation. Analyses of dams, milk, and offspring were conducted on postnatal days (PD) 7, 14, and 21.

RESULTS

Body weight and food intake decreased in dams, which was associated with reduced fat pad stores and increased corticosterone levels at PD 14. The stressed low-protein diet dams demonstrated alterations in behavior and offspring care. Despite nutritional deprivation, dams adapted their metabolism to provide adequate energy supply through milk; however, we demonstrated elevated corticosterone and total fat levels in milk at PD 14. Male offspring also showed increased corticosterone at PD 7, associated with a lean phenotype and alterations in white and brown adipose tissue morphology at PD 21.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to protein-caloric restriction diet of dams during lactation increased the glucocorticoid levels in dams, milk, and offspring, which is associated with alterations in maternal behavior and milk composition. Thus, glucocorticoids and milk composition may play an important role in metabolic programming induced by maternal undernutrition.

Macronutrient composition of term and preterm human milk of different socio economic groups

Assessment of the nutritional composition of Human Breast Milk (HBM) is important to understand its sufficiency as the sole nutrient source in infants. The present study is aimed to analyze the proximate composition along with total amino acid and fatty acid profile in term and preterm HBM of different socio economic status. This cross sectional study included, 120 lactating mothers with term or preterm gestation from maternity hospitals located in Hyderabad, Telangana. Nutritional proximate, total amino and fatty acid profiles were estimated in pooled human milk collected from each participant within the first week of postpartum. The macronutrient composition in term was similar to that of preterm breast milk. The essential amino acid Leucine was significantly high in preterm (8.91 ± 0.18) when compared to term (8.61 ± 0.23). ω-5 fatty acid Myristoleic acid was significantly high in preterm (0.14 ± 0.02) when compared to term (0.11 ± 0.02), whereas ω-6 fatty acids like Docosadienoic Acid and Eicosadienoic acid were found to be significantly high in term when compared to preterm. Further, it was also found that the mono unsaturated and ω-9 fatty acids were significantly high in lower socio economic group, whereas, poly unsaturated and ω -3 and 6 fatty acids were significantly high in upper socio economic group. The present study concludes that, nutritional composition like essential amino and fatty acids of human milk vary significantly between different gestational age as well as in socio economic groups.

The Impacts of Single Preterm Human Donor Milk Compared to Mother's Own Milk on Growth and Body Composition

(1) If mother´s own milk (MOM) is not available, pooled term human donor milk (HDM) is commonly used. Compared to MOM, term HDM contains less protein and fat and is associated with impaired growth. HDM from mothers of preterm infants is an alternative source and contains higher protein levels compared to term HDM, but the impacts on growth and body composition are unclear. (2) Methods: Infants born below 32 weeks of gestation and below 1500 g between 2017-2022, who underwent air displacement plethysmography (Pea Pod^®) to determine body composition (FFM: fat-free mass; FM: fat mass) at term-equivalent age, were included. A comparison between infants fed with MOM > 50% (MOM-group) and single preterm HDM > 50% (HDM-group) was conducted. (3) Results: In total, 351 infants (MOM-group: n = 206; HDM-group: n = 145) were included for the analysis. The median FFM-Z-score (MOM-group: -1.09; IQR: -2.02, 1.11; HDM-group: -1.13; IQR: -2.03, 1.12; p = 0.96), FM-Z-score (MOM-group: 1.06; IQR: -0.08, 2.22; HDM-group: 1.19; IQR: -0.14, 2.20; p = 0.09), and median growth velocity (MOM-group: 23.1 g/kg/d; IQR: 20.7, 26.0; HDM: 22.5 g/kg/d; IQR: 19.7, 25.8; p = 0.15) values were not significantly different between the groups. (4) Conclusion: Single preterm HDM is a good alternative to support normal growth and body composition.

Short-Term Effects of Human versus Bovine Sialylated Milk Oligosaccharide Microinjection on Zebrafish Larvae Survival, Locomotor Behavior and Gene Expression

Milk oligosaccharides are a complex class of carbohydrates that act as bioactive factors in numerous defensive and physiological functions, including brain development. Early nutrition can modulate nervous system development and can lead to epigenetic imprinting. We attempted to increase the sialylated oligosaccharide content of zebrafish yolk reserves, with the aim of evaluating any short-term effects of the treatment on mortality, locomotor behavior, and gene expression. Wild-type embryos were microinjected with saline solution or solutions containing sialylated milk oligosaccharides extracted from human and bovine milk. The results suggest that burst activity and larval survival rates were unaffected by the treatments. Locomotion parameters were found to be similar during the light phase between control and treated larvae; in the dark, however, milk oligosaccharide-treated larvae showed increased test plate exploration. Thigmotaxis results did not reveal significant differences in either the light or the dark conditions. The RNA-seq analysis indicated that both treatments exert an antioxidant effect in developing fish. Moreover, sialylated human milk oligosaccharides seemed to increase the expression of genes related to cell cycle control and chromosomal replication, while bovine-derived oligosaccharides caused an increase in the expression of genes involved in synaptogenesis and neuronal signaling. These data shed some light on this poorly explored research field, showing that both human and bovine oligosaccharides support brain proliferation and maturation.

Anti-Spike Antibodies Present in the Milk of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccinated Mothers Are Complement-Activating

Although only 0.8-1% of SARS-CoV-2 infections are in the 0-9 age-group, pneumonia is still the leading cause of infant mortality globally. Antibodies specifically directed against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S) are produced during severe COVID-19 manifestations. Following vaccination, specific antibodies are also detected in the milk of breastfeeding mothers. Since antibody binding to viral antigens can trigger activation of the complement classical - pathway, we investigated antibody-dependent complement activation by anti-S immunoglobulins (Igs) present in breast milk following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. This was in view of the fact that complement could play a fundamentally protective role against SARS-CoV-2 infection in newborns. Thus, 22 vaccinated, lactating healthcare and school workers were enrolled, and a sample of serum and milk was collected from each woman. We first tested for the presence of anti-S IgG and IgA in serum and milk of breastfeeding women by ELISA. We then measured the concentration of the first subcomponents of the three complement pathways (i.e., C1q, MBL, and C3) and the ability of anti-S Igs detected in milk to activate the complement in vitro. The current study demonstrated that vaccinated mothers have anti-S IgG in serum as well as in breast milk, which is capable of activating complement and may confer a protective benefit to breastfed newborns.

Protein restriction during lactation causes transgenerational metabolic dysfunction in adult rat offspring

Introduction

Protein restriction during lactation can induce metabolic dysfunctions and has a huge impact on the offspring's phenotype later in its life. We tested whether the effects of a maternal low-protein diet (LP) in rats can be transmitted to the F2 generation and increase their vulnerability to dietary insults in adulthood.

Methods

Female Wistar rats (F0) were fed either a low-protein diet (LP; 4% protein) during the first 2 weeks of lactation or a normal-protein diet (NP; 23% protein). The female offspring (F1 generation) were maintained on a standard diet throughout the experiment. Once adulthood was reached, female F1 offspring from both groups (i.e., NP-F1 and LP-F1) were bred to proven males, outside the experiment, to produce the F2 generation. Male F2 offspring from both groups (NP-F2 and LP-F2 groups) received a standard diet until 60 days old, at which point they received either a normal fat (NF; 4.5% fat) or a high fat diet (HF; 35% fat) for 30 days.

Results

At 90 days old, LPNF-F2 offspring had increased lipogenesis and fasting insulinemia compared to NPNF-F2, without alteration in insulin sensitivity. HF diet caused increased gluconeogenesis and displayed glucose intolerance in LPHF-F2 offspring compared to LPNF-F2 offspring. Additionally, the HF diet led to damage to lipid metabolism (such as steatosis grade 3), higher body weight, fat pad stores, and hepatic lipid content.

Discussion

We concluded that an F0 maternal protein restricted diet during lactation can induce a transgenerational effect on glucose and liver metabolism in the F2 generation, making the offspring's liver more vulnerable to nutritional injury later in life.

Effects of a Novel Infant Formula on Weight Gain, Body Composition, Safety and Tolerability to Infants: The INNOVA 2020 Study

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life to promote adequate infant growth and development, and to reduce infant morbidity and mortality. However, whenever some mothers are not able to breastfeed their infants, infant formulas mimicking human milk are needed, and the safety and efficacy of each formula should be tested. Here, we report the results of a multicenter, randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial that aimed to evaluate a novel starting formula on weight gain and body composition of infants up to 6 and 12 months, as well as safety and tolerability. For the intervention period, infants were divided into three groups: group 1 received formula 1 (Nutribén® Innova 1 (Alter Farmacia S.A., Madrid, Spain) or INN (n = 70)), with a lower amount of protein, a lower casein to whey protein ratio by increasing the content of α-lactalbumin, and a double amount of docosahexaenoic acid/arachidonic acid than the standard formula; it also contained a thermally inactivated postbiotic (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, BPL1TM HT). Group 2 received the standard formula or formula 2 (Nutriben® Natal (Alter Farmacia S.A., Madrid, Spain) or STD (n = 70)) and the third group was exclusively breastfed for exploratory analysis and used as a reference (BFD group (n = 70)). During the study, visits were made at 21 days and 2, 4, 6, and 12 months of age. Weight gain was higher in both formula groups than in the BFD group at 6 and 12 months, whereas no differences were found between STD and INN groups either at 6 or at 12 months. Likewise, body mass index was higher in infants fed the two formulas compared with the BFD group. Regarding body composition, length, head circumference and tricipital/subscapular skinfolds were alike between groups. The INN formula was considered safe as weight gain and body composition were within the normal limits, according to WHO standards. The BFD group exhibited more liquid consistency in the stools compared to both formula groups. All groups showed similar digestive tolerance and infant behavior. However, a higher frequency of gastrointestinal symptoms was reported by the STD formula group (n = 291), followed by the INN formula (n = 282), and the BFD groups (n = 227). There were fewer respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders among BFD children. Additionally, infants receiving the INN formula experienced significantly fewer general disorders and disturbances than those receiving the STD formula. Indeed, atopic dermatitis, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis were significantly more prevalent among infants who were fed the STD formula compared to those fed the INN formula or breastfed. To evaluate whether there were significant differences between formula treatments, beyond growth parameters, it would seem necessary to examine more precise health biomarkers and to carry out long-term longitudinal studies.

Coupled Gold Nanoparticles with Aptamers Colorimetry for Detection of Amoxicillin in Human Breast Milk Based on Image Preprocessing and BP-ANN

Antibiotic residues in breast milk can have an impact on the intestinal flora and health of babies. Amoxicillin, as one of the most used antibiotics, affects the abundance of some intestinal bacteria. In this study, we developed a convenient and rapid process that used a combination of colorimetric methods and artificial intelligence image preprocessing, and back propagation-artificial neural network (BP-ANN) analysis to detect amoxicillin in breast milk. The colorimetric method derived from the reaction of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was coupled to aptamers (ssDNA) with different concentrations of amoxicillin to produce different color results. The color image was captured by a portable image acquisition device, and image preprocessing was implemented in three steps: segmentation, filtering, and cropping. We decided on a range of detection from 0 µM to 3.9 µM based on the physiological concentration of amoxicillin in breast milk and the detection effect. The segmentation and filtering steps were conducted by Hough circle detection and Gaussian filtering, respectively. The segmented results were analyzed by linear regression and BP-ANN, and good linear correlations between the colorimetric image value and concentration of target amoxicillin were obtained. The R2 and MSE of the training set were 0.9551 and 0.0696, respectively, and those of the test set were 0.9276 and 0.1142, respectively. In prepared breast milk sample detection, the recoveries were 111.00%, 98.00%, and 100.20%, and RSDs were 6.42%, 4.27%, and 1.11%. The result suggests that the colorimetric process combined with artificial intelligence image preprocessing and BP-ANN provides an accurate, rapid, and convenient way to achieve the detection of amoxicillin in breast milk.

The impact on colostrum oxidative stress, cytokines, and immune cells composition after SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy

Background

Limited data are available regarding the differences between immunological, biochemical, and cellular contents of human colostrum following maternal infection during pregnancy with coronavirus 2 disease (COVID-19).

Objective

To investigate whether maternal COVID-19 infection may affect immunological, biochemical, and cellular contents of human colostrum.

Methods

Using a case-control study design, we collected colostrum from 14 lactating women with a previous diagnosis of COVID-19 during pregnancy and 12 without a clear diagnosis during September 2020 to May 2021. Colostrum samples were analysed for some enzymes and non-enzymatic oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GPx, MDA, GSH, GSSG, H2O2, MPO) and for IL-1β, IL-6, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, protein induced by interferon gamma (IP)-10, IL-8, IFN-λ1, IL12p70, IFN-α2, IFN-λ2/3, granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), IFN-β, IL-10 and IFN-γ, along with IgA and IgG for the SARS-CoV-2 S protein. We perform immunophenotyping to assess the frequency of different cell types in the colostrum.

Results

Colostrum from the COVID-19 symptomatic group in pregnancy contained reduced levels of H2O2, IFN-α2, and GM-CSF. This group had higher levels of GSH, and both NK cell subtypes CD3-CD56brightCD16-CD27+IFN-γ+ and CD3-CD56dimCD16+CD27- were also increased.

Conclusion

The present results reinforce the protective role of colostrum even in the case of mild SARS-Cov-2 infection, in addition to demonstrating how adaptive the composition of colostrum is after infections. It also supports the recommendation to encourage lactating women to continue breastfeeding after COVID-19 illness.

Human milk microbial species are associated with infant head-circumference during early and late lactation in Guatemalan mother-infant dyads

Human milk contains abundant commensal bacteria that colonize and establish the infant's gut microbiome but the association between the milk microbiome and head circumference during infancy has not been explored. For this cross-sectional study, head-circumference-for-age-z-scores (HCAZ) of vaginally delivered breastfed infants were collected from 62 unrelated Mam-Mayan mothers living in eight remote rural communities in the Western Highlands of Guatemala during two stages of lactation, 'early' (6-46 days postpartum, n = 29) or 'late' (109-184 days postpartum, n = 33). At each stage of lactation, infants were divided into HCAZ ≥ -1 SD (early: n = 18; late: n = 14) and HCAZ < -1 SD (early: n = 11; late: n = 19). Milk microbiome communities were assessed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing and DESeq2 was used to compare the differential abundance (DA) of human milk microbiota with infant HCAZ subgroups at both stages of lactations. A total of 503 ESVs annotated 256 putative species across the 64 human milk samples. Alpha-diversity using Chao index uncovered a difference in microbial community richness between HCAZ ≥ -1 SD and HCAZ < -1 SD groups at late lactation (p = 0.045) but not at early lactation. In contrast, Canonical Analysis of Principal Coordinates identified significant differences between HCAZ ≥ -1 SD and HCAZ < -1 SD at both stages of lactation (p = 0.003); moreover, 26 milk microbial taxa differed in relative abundance (FDR < 0.05) between HCAZ ≥ -1 SD and HCAZ < -1 SD, with 13 differentially abundant at each lactation stage. Most species in the HCAZ ≥ -1 SD group were Streptococcus species from the Firmicutes phylum which are considered human colonizers associated with human milk whereas the HCAZ < -1 SD group at late lactation had more differentially abundant taxa associated with environmentally and 'potentially opportunistic' species belonging to the Actinobacteria genus. These findings suggest possible associations between brain growth of breastfed infants and the milk microbiome during lactation. Importantly, these data provide the first evidence of cross talk between the human milk microbiome and the infant brain that requires further investigation.

The Manifold Bioactivity and Immunoreactivity of Microbial Proteins of Cow and Human Mature Milk in Late Lactation

Simple Summary

The debate over the validity and benefits of breastfeeding children after the age of 1 and the superiority of human over cow’s milk is still ongoing. The recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding as a complementary food source for 1 year or longer, seems justified under many circumstances. The microbiological parameters of the milk play a vital role in this respect. So far, the focus has been on the qualitative profile of the microbiota, bacterial interactions with milk compounds, and the metabolites produced by bacteria. However, the role of bacterial proteins in milk, according to the authors’ knowledge, has been analyzed. It is reported that due to the disruption of the regulatory axis of the immune system in the course of hypersensitivity, organisms may give rise to decreased IgA-mediated (physiological) and increased IgE-mediated (hypersensitive) responses even to host gut microbiota proteins. In this publication, the aim was to compare whether the bacterial proteins in the mature human milk of late lactation and cow’s milk of different breeds can determine the different immunoreactive and bioactive properties of milk.

Abstract

(1) Human milk (HM) is a source of many microorganisms, whose structure contains microbial protein (MP). In addition to the known health-promoting properties of HM, many activities, including immunoreactivity, may result from the presence of MP. Cow’s milk (CM)-derived MP may be 10 times more abundant than MP derived from HM. (2) Raw cow’s milk samples of Holstein and Jersey breeds, commercially available pasteurized milk, and milk from three human donors in the late lactation phase were subjected to chemical and microbiological analyzes. Microorganisms from the milk material were recovered, cultured, and their activities were tested. MPs were extracted and their immunoreactivity was tested with human high IgE pooled sera. The milk types were subjected to simulated digestion. Milk and microbial proteins were identified with LCMS and subjected to an in silico analysis of their activities. Their antioxidant potential was analysed with the DPPH method. (3) The MP of HM shows a stronger IgE and IgG immunoreactivity in the tests with human sera compared to the MP of CM (p = 0.001; p = 0.02, respectively). There were no significant differences between the microbes in the MP of different cattle breeds. The MS-identification and in silico tests of milk and microbial proteins confirmed the presence of MP with immunoreactivity and antioxidant potential. (4) MPs possess a broad bioactive effect, which was determined by an in silico tools. The balance between an MP’s individual properties probably determines the raw material’s safety, which undoubtedly requires further research.

Effect of different feeding methods and gut microbiota on premature infants and clinical outcomes

Premature infants require special care, and clinical feeding methods for this patient group are generally divided into breastfeeding and formula milk. This retrospective study investigated the effects of these two feeding methods on premature infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit between 2017 and 2018. Data regarding the duration of complete enteral feeding, weight gain, and postnatal infections were collected, categorized, and compared. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation between the intestinal flora and clinical outcomes. Results revealed no differences between the two feeding methods, and neither had significant effects on clinical indicators in premature infants, although the gut microbiota may be an important factor influencing many clinical indicators. Results of this study suggest an important role for the gut microbiota in the care of premature infants and provide a basis for promoting the healthy development of this patient population.

Comparative Lipidomics Analysis of Human and Ruminant Milk Reveals Variation in Composition and Structural Characteristics

In the present study, the different lipidomes between human milk and ruminant milk were compared. The 471, 376, 467, and 87 differential lipids were identified in human versus cow, goat, sheep, and camel groups, respectively. According to multivariate statistical analysis, lipids in human and camel milk were closer but differed from other milk. The distributions of long-chain and polyunsaturated fatty acids of triglycerides (TGs), the proportions of functional TGs (OPO, OPL, and PPO), and many kinds of phospholipids (PLs) (PS, PI, GD, GM3, and Cer) in human milk were similar to those in camel milk. The similar structure of TGs and proportion of PLs in human milk to camel milk might contribute to their similar digestion and bioactivity properties. Camel milk could be considered as a new resource of lipid base for infant formula. Minor PLs should also be considered for designing formula. Our results provide a new sight for humanized lipids in infant formula.

Internal factors affecting the mother's psychological capital in exclusive breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background:

During the pandemic, in terms of breastfeeding, most mothers experience anxiety and discomfort. The impact of this condition will decrease the production of breast milk. The purpose of this study was to determine the internal factors that affect the psychological capital of mothers when breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic in Petiken Village, Gresik.

Design and methods:

This study was an analytical study with a cross-sectional approach. The population of this study was all breastfeeding mothers who had babies aged 6–12 months. The sampling technique used was simple random sampling involving 102 respondents. The independent variables were motivation, perception, and attitude. The dependent variable was psychological capital. Data were collected from June to July 2021. The data analysis was conducted using the logistic regression test to determine the variable with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results:

The results of the multivariate analysis showed that the motivation variable was p = 0.036. Motivation had effect on psychological capital. While the perception variable was p = 0.056 (p > 0.05), the perception had no effect on psychological capital. The attitude variable p = 0.055 (p > 0.05), the attitude had no effect on psychological capital. The factor that affects the mother’s psychological capital in relation to exclusive breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic was motivation.

Conclusion:

It is expected that mothers have a high motivation which can affect the mother’s psychological capital. It is needed to increase and succeed at providing exclusive breastfeeding.

Molecular characterization and association of lactoferrin gene to subclinical mastitis in goats (Capra hircus)

The study characterized the lactoferrin (Lf) mRNA gene in different goat breeds in the Philippines and determined its association with subclinical mastitis (SCM). The study involved collection of milk at second week of lactation (n=75) and blood samples (n=5) to obtain extracted RNA and using cDNA to amplify Lf gene through polymerase chain reaction. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences were determined and used as reference in the evaluation of phylogenetic relationship. Amplified products were utilized for RFLP analysis before determining the association of the gene with SCM. Results of the study demonstrated that Lf gene in goats registered a molecular weight of 2135. Nucleotide and amino acid sequence of Lf gene revealed high similarity (99%) in Saanen, Anglo-Nubian and Philippine native goats with that of Capra hircus (U53857) Lf gene submitted to GenBank. Phylogenetic studies showed that Lf gene of Anglo-Nubian, Saanen and Native goats clade together with Lf gene of C. hircus (U53857). Three genotypes in goats were documented using the restriction enzymes AluI and HaeIII. Based on the Statistical analysis, association (comp 5.65, p = 0.0308) has been established between the Lf genes of goats with genotype BB to SCM using HaeIII restriction enzyme.

Effects of Proteins and Mineral Ions on the Physicochemical Properties of 1,3-Dioleoyl-2-Palmitoylglycerol Emulsion to Mimic a Liquid Infant Formula

Proteins and minerals in infant formula not only serve as nutrients, but also have important effects on the physical and chemical stability of emulsions. In this study, calcium carbonate (0 or 9.08 mM) and potassium chloride (0 or 15.96 mM), as representatives of divalent and monovalent minerals, were added to 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) emulsions in different ratios (10:0, 9:1, 6:4, 5:5, and 0:10) of whey protein isolate (WPI) and sodium caseinate (CN). The influence of proteins and minerals on emulsion stability was investigated by analyzing particle size, zeta potential, creaming index, rheological properties, storage stability, and lipid oxidation. 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) emulsions could be destabilized by adding Ca²⁺, as shown by the increase in particle size index, creaming index, and the decrease in zeta potential magnitude. Divalent ions could affect the electrostatic interactions between lipid droplets and the interactive effects of ion surface adsorption. In addition, the effect of different protein ratios on the physical stability of emulsions was not significant under the same ion-type conditions. In terms of chemical stability, higher oxidized values were found in emulsions stabilized with only CN than in those containing WPI. Our study showed that protein ratios and minerals played an important role in the stability of OPO emulsions, which might provide a reference for the development and utilization of liquid infant formula.

Use of the Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) Method in Complementary Feeding of the Infant-A Cross-Sectional Study of Mothers Using and Not Using the BLW Method

Baby-led weaning (BLW) is an increasingly popular way of expanding a baby’s diet. It is based on the baby becoming physically ready to feed himself, effectively supplementing his diet, which until now has been based on breast milk or modified milk. The aim of the study was to assess mothers’ knowledge about the use of the BLW method to expand the diet of a young child. The essence of the study assumed the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of using this method indicated by mothers. Materials and Methods: A total of 320 mothers participated in the study. Data for the study were collected anonymously using the CAWI method. The research tool was the original questionnaire relating to the knowledge about the BLW method and the application of the BLW method in practice. Results: The BLW method was used by 240 (75%) women. The reasons for not using the BLW method were: the child did not cooperate n = 30 (37.5%) and was not ready to use the BLW method n = 20 (25%). In total, 182 (75.8%) mothers using BLW and 63 (78.8%) mothers not using BLW started extending the diet before the child was 6 months old. According to 270 (84.4%) mothers, including 205 (85.4%) using BLW, stable sitting in a highchair/on the lap is a decisive factor for starting the dietary expansion with the BLW method. Conclusions: Mothers’ knowledge of the BLW method as a way of expanding a young child’s diet was insufficient. It seems important to implement appropriate educational activities on the methods of expanding children’s diets to broaden parents’ knowledge of the influence of nutrition on infant development.

Human Breast Milk: From Food to Active Immune Response With Disease Protection in Infants and Mothers

Breastfeeding is associated with long-term wellbeing including low risks of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases such as asthma, cancer, autoimmune diseases and obesity during childhood. In recent years, important advances have been made in understanding the human breast milk (HBM) composition. Breast milk components such as, non-immune and immune cells and bioactive molecules, namely, cytokines/chemokines, lipids, hormones, and enzymes reportedly play many roles in breastfed newborns and in mothers, by diseases protection and shaping the immune system of the newborn. Bioactive components in HBM are also involved in tolerance and appropriate inflammatory response of breastfed infants if necessary. This review summarizes the current literature on the relationship between mother and her infant through breast milk with regard to disease protection. We will shed some light on the mechanisms underlying the roles of breast milk components in the maintenance of health of both child and mother.

Microbiological Quality of Milk Donated to the Regional Human Milk Bank in Warsaw in the First Four Years of Activity

As the survival rate for preterm infants increases, more emphasis is placed on improving health-related quality of life through optimal nutritional management. Human Milk Banks (HMBs) provide bioactive nutrients and probiotic microorganisms to premature newborns, especially in the first year of life. Donated milk screening and selection of potential donors ensures the quality and microbiological safety of the donated milk. Therefore we reviewed the basic characteristics of donors and the amounts and contamination of breast milk donated to the Regional Human Milk Bank (RHMB) in Warsaw. In four years, the RHMB collected 1445.59 L of milk, of which 96.60% was distributed among hospitalised infants. Additionally, breastmilk from donor candidates (139 samples from 96 women) was tested at least once in the first year of lactation. First analyses showed that 18 women’s milk samples were microbiologically pure, and 78 samples had one or more species of commensal and/or potentially pathogenic bacteria. In human milk samples from 31 women, the bacteria level was above the standard required by the RHMB; therefore, donors were re-educated, and further samples were tested. Most women followed the recommendations on hygienic expression and storage of milk before transfer to the RHMB. Our analysis will help to increase the accessibility and quality of raw donor milk and to meet the needs of more newborns.

Reduced n-3 and n-6 PUFA (DHA and AA) Concentrations in Breast Milk and Erythrocytes Phospholipids during Pregnancy and Lactation in Women with Obesity

Obesity during pregnancy is a worrying public health problem worldwide. Maternal diet is critical for fatty acid (FA) placental transport and FA content in breast milk (BM). We evaluated FA composition in erythrocytes phospholipids (EP) and BM in pregnant women with (OBE, n = 30) and without (non-OBE, n = 31) obesity. Sixty-one healthy women were evaluated at their 20-24th gestational week and followed until 6th month of lactation. Diet was evaluated through a food frequency questionnaire. FA composition of EP and BM was assessed by gas-liquid chromatography. The OBE group showed lower diet quality, but total n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), ALA, EPA, and DHA dietary intake was similar between groups. N-3 PUFA, ALA, DHA, and the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in EP were lower at the 6th lactation month in the OBE group. In BM, the arachidonic acid (AA) concentration was lower at the end of the lactation, and DHA content showed an earlier and constant decline in the OBE group compared to the non-OBE group. In conclusion, n-3 PUFA and AA and DHA levels were reduced in EP and BM in pregnant women with obesity. Strategies to increase n-3 PUFA are urgently needed during pregnancy and lactation, particularly in women with obesity.

Timing and types of fluids and foods first introduced in a representative sample of toddlers attending day care programs across Lebanon: Are parents following international recommendations?

BACKGROUND

Current WHO's recommendation for optimal infant feeding advises exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. After this initial period, infants should receive nutritionally adequate and safe complementary food starting from the age of 6 months with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond.

PURPOSE

This study examined the timing and types of fluids and foods first introduced in a representative sample of toddlers (n = 1051) from 79 daycares across Lebanon. Questionnaires were self-administered to parents of toddlers (12-36 months) with a participation rate of 67%.

RESULTS

Results showed that more than half of toddlers (55.7%) were introduced to infant formula within their first month of life. Around two-thirds received water as the first type of additional fluid (62.5%) with a mean age of 3.86 ± 2.15 months and fruits or cooked vegetables (69.7%) as the first types of food introduced with a mean age of 5.73 ± 1.56 months. Unfortunately, two-third (67.3%) were not breastfed after solid food introduction.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Our data on current suboptimal feeding practices in Lebanon shows the need to reinforce BF and CF practices recommendations and guidelines at the community, social and health system levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of specific recommendations and with the poor involvement of the various stakeholders, it was noted that more than half of the parents were not following the WHO recommendation concerning unnecessary fluid supplementation of infants and were introducing food before the recommended age of 6 months; moreover, only a minority of mothers continued breastfeeding after introducing food to their infants.

Comparison of conventional heat-treated and membrane filtered infant formula using an in vitro semi-dynamic digestion method

Introducing membrane filtration steps into infant milk formula (IMF) manufacture can partly preserve native whey proteins in the final products. In this study, IMF produced by membrane filtration (MEM-IMF) and...

The effect of feeding patterns on serum zonulin levels in infants at 3-4 months of age

Zonulin so far is the only known endogenous modulator of intercellular tight junctions which regulate the intestinal permeability. Breastfeeding is considered to enhance the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract; however, limited data are available about the effect of feeding patterns on intestinal permeability. We aimed to investigate the potential association between the mode of feeding (breast versus formula milk) and the serum zonulin levels as a marker of intestinal permeability. One hundred fifty-seven full-term, healthy infants, born after an uncomplicated pregnancy, were enrolled within 72-96 h of life. Blood samples from 105 infants were obtained at 3 to 4 months of life. Serum zonulin levels were measured by ELISA. Out of 105 infants, 52.4% (55) were female, and 58.1% (61) were delivered by caesarian section at a mean gestational age of 38.9 (SD ± 1.0) weeks. At the time of blood sampling, median age was 3.4 (IQR 3.20-3.50) months, and mean weight was 6332 (SD ± 692) gr. Infants were divided in three groups according to the feeding patterns: exclusive breastfeeding (n = 42), mixed feeding (n = 41), and cow's milk formula (n = 22). The feeding pattern had no impact on infants' serum zonulin levels. Moreover, zonulin levels were not affected by infant's clinical and epidemiological characteristics such as body weight or family history of autoimmune disease.Conclusion: In our study, different feeding patterns were not associated with serum zonulin levels in healthy infants at 3-4 months of age. What is Known: • Serum zonulin is upregulated in conditions with increased intestinal permeability • Breast milk favors the physiological decline of the intestinal permeability after birth in the neonates What is New: • Serum zonulin levels were not affected by the feeding pattern (breast milk versus formula) in infants at 3-4 months of age • Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of infants had no impact on zonulin levels.

The Role of Microbiota in Infant Health: From Early Life to Adulthood

From early life to adulthood, the microbiota play a crucial role in the health of the infant. The microbiota in early life are not only a key regulator of infant health but also associated with long-term health. Pregnancy to early life is the golden time for the establishment of the infant microbiota, which is affected by both environmental and genetic factors. Recently, there is an explosion of the studies on the role of microbiota in human diseases, but the application to disease or health is relatively limited because many aspects of human microbiota remain controversial, especially about the infant microbiota. Therefore, a critical and conclusive review is necessary to understand fully the relationship between the microbiota and the health of infant. In this article, we introduce in detail the role of microbiota in the infant from pregnancy to early life to long-term health. The main contents of this article include the relationship between the maternal microbiota and adverse pregnancy outcomes, the establishment of the neonatal microbiota during perinatal period and early life, the composition of the infant gut microbiota, the prediction of the microbiota for long-term health, and the future study directions of microbiota.