Articles publicats en revistes (Nutrició, Ciències de l'Alimentació i Gastronomia)

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Understanding public perceptions and discussions on opioids through Twitter: Cross-sectional infodemiology study
(JMIR Publications, 2023-10-31) Carabot, Federico; Fraile-Martínez, Óscar; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Santoma-Vilaclara, Javier; García-Montero, Cielo; Pinto da Costa, Mariana; Molina-Ruiz, Rosa M.; Ortega, Miguel Ángel; Álvarez-Mon, Melchor; Álvarez-Mon, Miguel Ángel
Background: Opioids are used for the treatment of refractory pain, but their inappropriate use has detrimental consequences for health. Understanding the current experiences and perceptions of patients in a spontaneous and colloquial environment regarding the key drugs involved in the opioid crisis is of utmost significance. Objective: The study aims to analyze Twitter content related to opioids, with objectives including characterizing users participating in these conversations, identifying prevalent topics and gauging public perception, assessing opinions on drug efficacy and tolerability, and detecting discussions related to drug dispensing, prescription, or acquisition. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we gathered public tweets concerning major opioids posted in English or Spanish between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. A total of 256,218 tweets were collected. Approximately 27% (69,222/256,218) were excluded. Subsequently, 7000 tweets were subjected to manual analysis based on a codebook developed by the researchers. The remaining databases underwent analysis using machine learning classifiers. In the codebook, the type of user was the initial classification domain. We differentiated between patients, family members and friends, health care professionals, and institutions. Next, a distinction was made between medical and nonmedical content. If it was medical in nature, we classified it according to whether it referred to the drug's efficacy or adverse effects. In nonmedical content tweets, we analyzed whether the content referred to management issues (eg, pharmacy dispensation, medical appointment prescriptions, commercial advertisements, or legal aspects) or the trivialization of the drug. Results: Among the entire array of scrutinized pharmaceuticals, fentanyl emerged as the predominant subject, featuring in 27% (39,997/148,335 posts) of the tweets. Concerning user categorization, roughly 70% (101,259/148,335) were classified as patients. Nevertheless, tweets posted by health care professionals obtained the highest number of retweets (37/16,956, 0.2% of their posts received over 100 retweets). We found statistically significant differences in the distribution concerning efficacy and side effects among distinct drug categories (P<.001). Nearly 60% (84,401/148,335) of the posts were devoted to nonmedical subjects. Within this category, legal facets and recreational use surfaced as the most prevalent themes, while in the medical discourse, efficacy constituted the most frequent topic, with over 90% (45,621/48,777) of instances characterizing it as poor or null. The opioid with the greatest proportion of tweets concerning legal considerations was fentanyl. Furthermore, fentanyl was the drug most frequently offered for sale on Twitter, while methadone generated the most tweets about pharmacy delivery. Conclusions: The opioid crisis is present on social media, where tweets discuss legal and recreational use. Opioid users are the most active participants, prioritizing medication efficacy over side effects. Surprisingly, health care professionals generate the most engagement, indicating their positive reception. Authorities must monitor web-based opioid discussions to detect illicit acquisitions and recreational use.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and fetal growth: A nation-wide register-based study on PFAS in drinking water
(Elsevier Ltd., 2024-05-08) Säve-Söderbergh, Melle; Gyllenhammar, Irina; Schillemans, Tessa; Lindfeldt, Emelie; Vogs, Carolina; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Ankarberg, Emma; Glynn, Anders; Ahrens, Lutz; Helte, Emilie; Åkesson, Agneta
Background: There is inconclusive evidence for an association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and fetal growth. Objectives: We conducted a nation-wide register-based cohort study to assess the associations of the estimated maternal exposure to the sum (PFAS4) of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) with birthweight as well as risk of small- (SGA) and large-for-gestational-age (LGA). Materials and methods: We included all births in Sweden during 2012-2018 of mothers residing ≥ four years prior to partus in localities served by municipal drinking water where PFAS were measured in raw and drinking water. Using a one-compartment toxicokinetic model we estimated cumulative maternal blood levels of PFAS4 during pregnancy by linking residential history, municipal PFAS water concentration and year-specific background serum PFAS concentrations in Sweden. Individual birth outcomes and covariates were obtained via register linkage. Mean values and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) of β coefficients and odds ratios (OR) were estimated by linear and logistic regressions, respectively. Quantile g-computation regression was conducted to assess the impact of PFAS4 mixture. Results: Among the 248,804 singleton newborns included, no overall association was observed for PFAS4 and birthweight or SGA. However, an association was seen for LGA, multivariable-adjusted OR 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01-1.16) when comparing the highest PFAS4 quartile to the lowest. These associations remained for mixture effect approach where all PFAS, except for PFOA, contributed with a positive weight. Discussions: We observed an association of the sum of PFAS4 - especially PFOS - with increased risk of LGA, but not with SGA or birthweight. The limitations linked to the exposure assessment still require caution in the interpretation.
Analysis of user-generated posts on social media of adjuvant analgesics: A machine learning study
(Ivyspring International, 2025-01-01) Carabot, Federico; Álvarez-Mon, Miguel Ángel; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Lara-Abelenda, Francisco J.; Fraile-Martínez, Oscar; Santoma-Vilaclara, Javier; García-Montero, Cielo; Valadés, Teresa; Gutiérrez-Rojas, Luis; Martínez González, Miguel A.; Ortega, Miguel Ángel; Álvarez-Mon, Melchor
Background: Antiepileptics and antidepressants are frequently prescribed for chronic pain, but their efficacy and potential adverse effects raise concerns, including dependency issues. Increased prescriptions, sometimes fraudulent, prompted reclassification of antiepileptics in some countries. Our aim is to comprehend opinions, perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes towards co-analgesics from online discussions on X (formerly known as Twitter), offering insights closer to reality than conventional surveys. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we collected 77,183 public posts about co-analgesics in English or Spanish from January 1st 2019 to December 31st, 2020. A total of 51,167 post were included, and 2,000 were manually analyzed using a researcher-created codebook. Machine learning classifiers were then applied to the remaining datasets to determine the number of publications for each user type and identify categories through content analysis. Results: Of the 51,167 posts analyzed, 78% discussed anticonvulsants and 24% discussed analgesic antidepressants (Percentages add up to more than 100% because there were 1,300 posts containing references to both types of medications). Only 13% were authored by healthcare professionals, while 67% were from patients. Medical content predominated, with 70% noting low medication efficacy and almost 50% referencing side effects. Non-medical content included challenges in dispensing (25%), complaints about high costs (15%), and trivialization of medication use (10%). Conclusions: This study offers valuable insights into public perceptions of co-analgesics. Findings aid in designing public health communications to raise awareness of associated risks, urging both healthcare providers and the public to optimize drug use.
Assessment of beliefs and attitudes towards benzodiazepines using machine learning based on social media posts: An observational study
(BioMed Central, 2024-10-08) Álvarez-Mon, Melchor; Quintero Gutiérrez del Álamo, Javier; de Anta, Laura; Álvarez-Mon, Miguel Ángel; Pereira-Sanchez, Victor; Donat-Vargas, Carolina; Lara-Abelenda, Francisco J.; Arrieta, María; Montero-Torres, María; García-Montero, Cielo; Fraile-Martínez, Óscar; Mora Mínguez, Fernando; Ortega, Miguel Ángel
Background: Benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed drugs; however, their prolonged use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and other adverse effects. Despite these risks, long-term use remains common, presenting a public health concern. This study aims to explore the beliefs and opinions held by the public regarding benzodiazepines, as understanding these perspectives may provide insights into their usage patterns. Methods: We collected public tweets published in English between January 1, 2019, and October 31, 2020, that mentioned benzodiazepines. The content of each tweet and the characteristics of the users were analyzed using a mixed-method approach, including manual analysis and semi-supervised machine learning. Results: Over half of the Twitter users highlighted the efficacy of benzodiazepines, with minimal discussion of their side effects. The most active participants in these conversations were patients and their families, with health professionals and institutions being notably absent. Additionally, the drugs most frequently mentioned corresponded with those most commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals. Conclusions: Social media platforms offer valuable insights into users' experiences and opinions regarding medications. Notably, the sentiment towards benzodiazepines is predominantly positive, with users viewing them as effective while rarely mentioning side effects. This analysis underscores the need to educate physicians, patients, and their families about the potential risks associated with benzodiazepine use and to promote clinical guidelines that support the proper management of these medications.
Greater fragmentation of the daily rhythm of energy intake is associated with better insulin sensitivity in rotating shift workers
(Informa Healthcare, 2026-05-15) Pereira Marot, L.uisa; Zerón-Rugerio, María Fernanda; Cambras Riu, Trinitat; Tibiletti Balieiro, Laura Cristina; Rosa, Dayane Eusenia; Vale Cardoso Lopes, Tássia Do; Castro Moreno, Claudia Roberta de; Izquierdo Pulido, Maria; Crispim, Cibele Aparecida
Shift workers are essential to sustaining the modern 24 h society. However, they experience a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a vulnerability thought to arise from recurrent misalignment between their sleep-wake and fasting-eating schedules. This study aimed to investigate the association between the daily rhythms of energy and macronutrient intake, motor activity (MA), and wrist temperature (WT) with anthropometric and biochemical parameters in rotating shift workers (RSW). Thirty male RSW participated in this 10 d cross-sectional study. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were collected, and a 10 d 24 h food recall was used to assess energy and macronutrient intake. From these data, daily rhythms of energy intake were characterized, and actigraphy was used to evaluate daily rhythms of MA and WT. Daily rhythms were analyzed using non-parametric analyses including the intradaily variability (IV) and interdaily stability (IS), and associations with outcome variables were tested using partial correlations. A negative association was observed between the IV of the daily rhythms of energy and carbohydrate intake with insulin levels (p < 0.05), HOMA-IR (p < 0.05), and triglycerides (p < 0.05). In contrast, higher IV in the daily rhythm of WT was associated with higher total cholesterol (p < 0.05) and LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.05). These results suggest that a higher fragmentation (higher IV) of the daily rhythm of energy intake is associated with better glucose tolerance among RSW.
Fetal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water and congenital malformations: A nation-wide register-based study on PFAS in drinking water
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025-03-14) Säve-Söderbergh, Melle; Gyllenhammar, Irina; Schillemans, Tessa; Lindfeldt, Emelie; Vogs, Carolina; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Ankarberg, E. H.; Glynn, Anders; Ahrens, Lutz; Helte, Emilie; Åkesson, Agneta
Background: Teratogenic properties of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been assessed in a few studies, however, epidemiological evidence for an association is inconclusive. Objectives: We conducted a Swedish nation-wide register-based cohort study to assess the associations of estimated fetal exposure to the sum of drinking water perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) with major congenital malformations. Methods: We included all births in Sweden during 2012-2018 of mothers residing ≥four years prior to partus in localities served by municipal drinking water where PFAS concentrations have been measured in drinking water. We estimated the fetal PFAS4 exposure by using a one-compartment toxicokinetic model - including maternal residential history, municipal PFAS water concentration and year-specific PFAS maternal background concentrations as input data - and accounting thereafter PFAS-specific transplacental transfer factors to estimate the fetal PFAS4 exposure. By register linkage we obtained birth outcomes and covariates. Odd ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) of the associations between estimated PFAS in foetuses and major congenital malformations were estimated by logistic regressions and, complementary, by quantile g-computation regression for mixture effects. Results: Analyses of 256,659 newborns of which 5,357 were diagnosed with major congenital malformations, revealed associations between fetal PFAS4 exposure and malformations on the nervous system OR, 2.84 (95 % CI: 1.38-5.84, p-trend: 0.008) and chromosomal anomalies OR, 1.50 (95 % CI: 1.07-2.10, p-trend: 0.009) comparing extreme quartiles. For the individual PFAS and in the quantile g-computation model, there were indications of an association between PFAS and urinary defects, OR 1.96 (95 % CI: 1.59-2.43, p-trend mixed effect: <0.001), primarily driven by PFOA and PFHxS. Discussion: Modelled fetal sum of PFAS4 was associated with malformations of the nervous system and chromosomal anomalies, while the mixture assessment revealed associations with defects on urinary system. As the underlying toxicological mechanisms remains unclear, further investigation is warranted.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water, gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertension and preeclampsia: A nation-wide register-based study on PFAS in drinking water
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025-03-26) Gyllenhammar, Irina; Schillemans, Tessa; Lindfeldt, Emelie; Vogs, Carolina; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Helte, Emilie; Ankarberg, Emma; Glynn, Anders; Ahrens, Lutz; Åkesson, Agneta; Säve-Söderbergh, Melle
Background: There is inconclusive evidence of associations between exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and diabetes and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Objectives: We conducted a nation-wide register-based cohort study to assess the associations of the estimated maternal drinking water exposure to the sum of four major PFAS (PFAS4; perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorononanoate (PFNA) and perfluorohexanoate (PFHxS)) with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertension and preeclampsia. Materials and methods: We included nulliparous women giving birth in Sweden during 2012-2018 in large localities served by municipal drinking water where PFAS were measured in raw and drinking water. Using a one-compartment toxicokinetic model, we estimated cumulative maternal blood levels of PFAS4 during pregnancy considering residential history, municipal PFAS water concentration and year-specific maternal PFAS background serum levels. The outcomes and individual covariates were ascertained via register linkage. Mean values and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) of Odds Ratios (OR) were estimated by logistic regression. Results: Among the 109,031 nulliparous women included, with an estimated average 7.8 ng PFAS4/mL serum (standard deviation: 2.0 ng/mL), there were indications of a non-monotonic inverse association for PFAS4 and GDM, corresponding to multivariable-adjusted OR 0.72 (95 % CI: 0.61-0.84) when comparing extreme quartiles. An inverse association were also seen for each PFAS individually. No clear associations were seen for hypertension or preeclampsia, although individual PFAS indicated significant associations, both inverse (PFAS and PFHxS) and direct (PFOS and PFNA) for hypertension. Conclusion: In the present study, we observed indications of inverse, non-monotonic associations for PFAS4 and GDM. Some individual PFAS were also associated with hypertension, both direct and inverse. The limitations linked to the exposure assessment still require caution in the interpretation.
Longitudinal assessment of nitrate and trihalomethanes in drinking-water and breast cancer in the CONSTANCES cohort: a prospective population-based study in France
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025-10-11) Lafontaine, Antoine; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Lequy, Emeline; Lee, Sewon; Glorennec, Philippe; Le Bot, Barbara; Goldberg, Marcel; Zins, Marie; Jacquemin, Bénédicte; Villanueva, Cristina M.
Nitrate and trihalomethanes (THMs) in drinking water are widespread and potential human carcinogens. We evaluated the association between time-varying exposure to nitrate and THMs in drinking water and female breast cancer (BC) among adults from CONSTANCES, a large French population-based prospective cohort. Our analysis included 26,669 women (18.5-72.5 years old) enrolled in 2012-2020, followed until 2021, with information on residential history, type of water consumed, type of filter used, and bathing and showering frequency. We used water quality data for 2004-2020 from the drinking surveillance national database (SISE-Eaux). Annual median concentrations of nitrate, chloroform, chlorodibromomethane, bromodichloromethane, and bromoform at the participants' residential addresses were estimated. Waterborne ingested exposure was estimated considering type of water, filter used, and liters/day consumed. Estimated exposure in showers and baths combined residential concentrations with showers/baths duration and frequency. Incident BC cases were ascertained in the French national health data system (SNDS) for 2012-2021. Extended Cox models with attained age as time-scale and time-varying weighted average exposures, adjusted for individual and area-level covariables, were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) by exposure tertiles. Average age at enrolment was 49.3 years, and median exposure window was 13 years. Median follow-up was 5 years (153,742 person-years), resulting in 437 new BC diagnoses. Median residential nitrate, brominated (Br)-THMs and chloroform concentrations were, respectively, 15.8 mg/L, 14.2 μg/L, and 2.7 μg/L. HR (95 %CI) of BC associated with waterborne ingested nitrate (mg/day) for the second (>4.8-15.1) and third tertile (>15.1) compared to the first (≤4.8) were 1.35 (1.01-1.81) and 1.51 (1.10-2.07), respectively. Residential THM concentrations were not associated with BC, however HR (95 %CI) of BC for showering and bathing Br-THMs exposure (μg/L × min/day) was 1.18 (0.84-1.64) for the third (>125) vs. first tertile (≤51.5). Findings suggest that ingested nitrate could be a risk factor of BC.
Association of faecal and urinary micro- and nanoplastics with markers of gut integrity and renal function
(Elsevier, 2026-03-04) Miguela-Benavides, Maria; Calikanzaros, Emma; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Aguilar, Ruth; Raimondi, Felipe; Iraola Guzmán, Susana; Dobaño, Carlota, 1969-; Cid, Rafael de; Llorca Casamayor, Marta; Farré Albaladejo, Magí; Villanueva, Cristina M.
Micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) constitute an emerging environmental concern due to their persistence and ubiquity, but evidence on health effects remains limited. We explored the association between MNPs exposure and markers of gut integrity and renal function in a cross-sectional study in Barcelona (Spain). We enrolled 50 healthy adults who self-collected spot urine and stool samples. MNPs (0.7-20 μm) were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS). Calprotectin, zonulin, lysozyme, β-defensin-2 and lactoferrin were measured in stool samples via ELISA. Urea, creatinine and albumin were measured in urine through kinetic and immunoturbidimetric methods. Generalized linear models adjusting for potential confounders were performed to evaluate the association between MNP presence in biological samples and the mentioned biomarkers. Six MNP polymers were detected across 52% of stool and 48% of urine samples. Polyamide was the most frequently detected polymer in stool (34%) and urine samples (16%). Polypropylene (PP) detection in stool was negatively associated with calprotectin (Ratio of means-ROM [95%CI] = 0.52 [0.31-0.94]). In urine, the presence of any MNP polymer was positively associated with the albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) (ROM [95%CI] = 2.18 [1.17-4.01]). Negative associations between PP in stool and lactoferrin, and polybutene-1 (PB1) in urine and uACR were observed, although these must be cautiously interpreted due to substantial lactoferrin measurement variability (lactoferrin undetected in 32% of samples) and a small number of PB1 detected samples (N = 5). Findings of this exploratory study suggest oral exposure to MNPs may be associated with renal function and gut integrity.
Reviving ancient winemaking: Effects of ceramic vessels and organic coatings in wine production
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-05-15) Abarca-Rivas, Clara; Corrado, Marina; Campins Machado, Francesc Miquel; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.; Pecci, Alessandra
The revival of ancient winemaking techniques using ceramic vessels and organic coatings such as pitch, resin, and beeswax has gained renewed interest among producers seeking distinctive sensory profiles, sustainability, and cultural heritage preservation. This review synthesizes multidisciplinary evidence on the role of ceramic containers and coatings in wine production, integrating archaeological insights with contemporary practices. Ceramic vessels enable micro-oxygenation and thermal stability, influencing phenolic polymerization and wine complexity without introducing exogenous compounds. Organic coatings historically served to waterproof vessels and impart antimicrobial and aromatic properties, with modern applications observed in traditional wines such as Georgian qvevri, Portuguese talha, Greek retsina, and Canary Islands tea wines. These techniques have been associated with enhanced poly(phenol) content, unique volatile profiles, and reduced reliance on chemical preservatives. Despite promising findings, research remains fragmented, with gaps in sensory characterization, mineral migration, and coating performance. Addressing these gaps through integrated chemical, microbiological, and sensory studies could transform these heritage practices into scientifically validated strategies for producing high-quality, low-intervention wines.
Indole Content Profiling During Biological Ageing of Cava Sparkling Wine
(MDPI, 2025-02-20) Abarca-Rivas, Clara; Martín Garcia, Alba; Riu Aumatell, Montserrat; López Tamames, Elvira
Indoles are bioactive components found in wine products and are associated with yeast activity. Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, is characterized by aging in contact with lees, making it a potential matrix for indoles. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the indole content in Cava produced at an industrial scale. Nine indoles were analysed by Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Cava samples with different ageing times (n = 74). Significant amounts of tryptophan (2.3–1680.4 µg/L), tryptophan ethyl ester (0.1–5.2 µg/L), 5-methoxytryptophol (0.3–29.2 µg/L) and n-acetyl serotonin (0.3–2.3 µg/L) were determined. Tryptophan and tryptophan ethyl ester were positively correlated and decreased with ageing time. In fact, a concentration of less than 0.56 µg of the latter indole can become a marker of the most aged Cavas. The ageing time in contact with lees seems to play a key role affecting the indole content, since base wines show high amount of tryptophan and tryptophan ethyl ester while aged sparkling wines have values around the lower 95% confidence limit. Notably, the identification of tryptophan ethyl ester as a potential marker for aging in Cava suggests a new avenue for further research and quality assessment in its production
Central Adiposity Assessed with Body Roundness Index and Mortality: The Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra Prospective Cohort
(MDPI, 2025-10-23) Dominguez, Ligia J.; Sayón Orea, Carmen; Toledo Atucha, Estefanía; Bes Rastrollo, Maira; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Barbagallo, Mario; Martínez-González, Miguel Ángel, 1957-
Background/Objectives: Obesity is currently a global pandemic and a major risk factor for the development of chronic disease and increased mortality. Common methods used to define obesity, such as body mass index (BMI), do not accurately reflect body fat content or distribution. Methods: We investigated the prognostic significance of the body roundness index (BRI) on incident death in 12,642 participants (60.2% women, mean age: 39, standard deviation (SD): 12 years) from the “Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra” prospective cohort and compared it to waist-to-height ratio (WtHR) and waist circumference (WC). Participants were monitored through biennial questionnaires. The mean of the baseline BRI was 3.6 (SD: 1.4) units. Multivariable-adjusted Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) of death. Results: Over a median follow-up period of 11.5 years, 380 participants died (absolute mortality rate 1.74 × 10−3). In multivariable-adjusted models, higher quartiles of BRI were significantly associated with all-cause death, specifically in those ≥ 60 years (Quartile 4 vs. Quartile 1: HR 1.64; 95% CI: 1.00, 2.70). Considering the whole group (all ages), each 2-unit increase in BRI was linked to a 21% higher all-cause mortality risk in both men and women. This association was even stronger for participants aged over 60 years (multivariate adjusted HR for 2-unit BRI increase: 1.31; CI: 1.00, 1.72), while it was not significant when considering only those under 60 years. The associations of z-WtHR and z-WC with incident mortality for all participants were also significant in the fully adjusted model (HRs: 1.14; CI: 1.01, 1.27, and HRs: 1.16; CI: 1.04, 1.30, respectively). Mortality associations assessed using the BRI, WtHR, and WC were superior to associations based on the BMI. Conclusions: BRI shows a linear link with all-cause mortality in healthy adults ≥ 60, while WtHR and WC were also mortality predictors. Thus, lower central fat may help reduce early death risk.
Dietary patterns and neuropsychological function in adolescents: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study
(BioMed Central, 2026-12-01) Manidis, Alexios; Ayala-Aldana, Nicolas; Bernardo-Castro, Sara; Pinar-Martí, Ariadna; Galkina, Polina; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.; Papandreou, Christopher; Julvez, Jordi; Fernández Barrés, Silvia; Ramírez-Carrasco, Patricia
Background. Adolescence is a critical period for brain development, during which dietary patterns may influence neuropsychological functioning. Objective. To examine cross-sectional associations and determine if baseline adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption is associated with changes in adolescent neuropsychological outcomes over 6 months. Methods. This study represents a secondary analysis of the WALNUTs Smart-Snack Trial. We evaluated 653 adolescents (aged 12–16 years) from Barcelona at baseline and at 6-month follow-up. All dietary data used for these analyses were collected at the baseline timepoint only. MD adherence was measured with the KIDMED index and UPF consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire and classified using the NOVA system. Cognitive domains were assessed at both time points using standardised computer-based tasks: attention (alerting, orienting, executive control) with the Attention Network Test; working memory (4-back) with the N-back task; fluid intelligence with the Primary Mental Abilities-Revised; decision-making with the Roulettes Task; and emotion recognition with the Emotion Recognition Task. Behavioural outcomes were also evaluated at both time points using the self-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and teacher-reported Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder-DSM-IV scales. Associations were examined using multivariable generalised linear models. To further validate UPF consumption estimations, polyphenol biomarkers were measured in urine in a subsample of 257 participants. Results. Greater adherence to the MD was cross-sectionally linked to fewer behavioural problems and higher scores of executive functioning, while higher UPF consumption was associated with poorer emotion recognition, reduced alerting attention, less advantageous decision-making, more behavioural problems and internalising symptoms. Longitudinally, higher UPF consumption was associated with more internalising symptoms and less advantageous decision-making, whereas MD adherence showed no associations. Conclusions. Greater MD adherence appears associated with more favourable behavioural and cognitive profiles. In contrast, higher UPF consumption seems to be associated with less favourable profiles across multiple neuropsychological domains in adolescents. However, the limited longitudinal evidence points to complex relationships that warrant further investigation. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of promoting healthier dietary habits during adolescence.
Green optimisation of microwave-assisted extraction of phenolic compounds from rice straw lignocellulosic residues and LC-HRMS-based cultivar profiling
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-05-15) San Sebastián, Laura; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.; Jiménez, Alfonso; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Garrigós, María Carmen; Ramos, Marina; Laveriano-Santos, Emily P.
Rice straw was valorised as a source of antioxidant phenolic compounds. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was optimised using a Box–Behnken design to assess the influence of temperature, ethanol concentration, solvent volume and extraction time on yield, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity. Temperature and time were the key factors. Optimal conditions (80 °C, 60% ethanol, 50 mL, 40 min) produced an 18.9% yield and 796 mg GAE/100 g DW, with high antioxidant activity (FRAP 32.3; ABTS 43.2 μmol TE/g DW). LC-ESI/LTQ-Orbitrap-HRMS/MS enabled detailed profiling of phenolic compounds, with 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and quercetin-3-glucoside as major contributors. The optimised workflow was applied to eleven cultivars harvested in 2019–2020, revealing cultivar- and year-dependent differences in phenolic fingerprints and antioxidant performance. Overall, the integrated MAE–Orbitrap approach efficiently produced phenolic-rich extracts and supported comparative cultivar profiling, although further evidence on stability, safety and regulatory aspects is needed for food-related applications.
TAS2R5 and TAS2R38 are bitter taste receptors whose colonic expressions could play important roles in age-associated processes
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06-01) Jalševac, Florijan; Segú, Helena; Balaguer Prunés, Francesc; Ocaña, Teresa; Moreira, Rebeca; Abad Jordà, Laia; Gracia-Sancho, Jorge; Fernández Iglesias, Anabel; Andrés Lacueva, Ma. Cristina; Martínez Huélamo, Miriam; Beltrán-Debón, Raúl; Rodríguez Gallego, Esther; Terra, Ximena; Ardévol Grau, Anna; Pinent, Montserrat
Ageing disrupts how our bodies process nutrients, leading to deregulation of nutrient-sensing and increased inflammation. Dietary interventions can promote healthy ageing, which demonstrates the importance of both metabolism and the gastrointestinal tract for our health. Bitter taste receptors (TAS2R) present in the intestine are key members of metabolic regulation. TAS2R are involved in controlling enterohormonal secretion, detect phenolic compounds in our diet, and potentially have a great impact on the ageing process. Here, we aimed to analyze the potential role of intestinal TAS2R on the ageing process and establish potential impact of these receptors on the biomarkers. Healthy subjects were divided into two age cohorts: young (38.9±6) and aged (63.6±6). TAS2R expression was analyzed in the colon. Analyses of metabolomics and of phenolic markers were performed in plasma. Best discriminatory parameters were obtained using three machine-learning methods. Finally, Spearman's rank correlation was performed. The best separators of the age cohorts were docosahexaenoic acid and multiple lipoprotein fractions. Two TAS2R were also identified: TAS2R5 and TAS2R38. TAS2R5 correlated with multiple lipoprotein-derived fractions, inflammatory marker IL-6 and polyunsaturated fatty acids. TAS2R38 was much more selective, correlating with a few parameters, including membrane lipid sphingomyelin, ketone body acetone, and omega acids. Both TAS2R5 and TAS2R38 correlated with β-hydroxybutyrate. The parameters that correlated with TAS2R have known effects on the ageing process. This suggests that TAS2R5 and TAS2R38 are the bitter receptors most likely to play a role in the development and progress of ageing.
Tomato Intake Improves Cognitive Performance and Modulates Functional Brain Networks in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial.
(MDPI, 2026-05-19) Ruiz-León, Ana María; Casas Rodríguez, Rosa M.; Estruch Riba, Ramon; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Corrado, Marina; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.; López-Solís, Ricardo; Donat Vargas, Carolina; Ramírez-Carrasco, Patricia; Gutiérrez-Romero, Rocío M.; Pérez Bosch, Maria; Castellví, Magdalena; Bosch Capdevila, Beatriz; Arancibia Riveros, Camila; Hinojosa-Moscoso, Alejandro; Muñoz-Moreno, Emma; Laredo Gregorio, Carlos
Tomatoes are the major dietary source of lycopene, a carotenoid that crosses the blood–brain barrier and exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the impact of tomato consumption on cognitive function in healthy adults remains unclear. This study assessed the effects of concentrated tomato paste on cognitive performance and explored potential mechanisms, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and functional brain connectivity. A randomized, two-period crossover trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05891977) was conducted in 47 healthy adults aged 40–55 years assigned to two 3-month interventions separated by a 1-month washout: (a) daily consumption of concentrated tomato paste (0.5 g/kg body weight) and (b) a lycopene-restricted control diet. Cognitive performance was evaluated using validated neuropsychological tests (d2-R, Face-Name Associative Memory Exam, Modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test), alongside plasma lycopene and BDNF, and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Forty-two participants completed the study. Tomato intake improved selective attention (concentration performance: +7.2 points; processing speed: +8.3 points) and associative memory (face-name matching: +0.8 points). Plasma BDNF showed a borderline increase with tomato intake (mean difference 15.2 ng/mL). Resting-state fMRI revealed changes in brain networks, including reduced connectivity in frontoparietal and auditory networks, contrasting with reductions in the dorsal attention network during the control period. These findings provide evidence that tomato consumption may support cognitive function and modulate brain connectivity in healthy middle-aged adults.
Dietary Polyamine Intake Across Age Groups in Spain: A Comprehensive Assessment
(MDPI, 2026-05-01) Toro Funes, Natalia; Comas Basté, Oriol; Latorre Moratalla, Mariluz; Veciana Nogués, María Teresa; Vidal Carou, Ma. Carmen
Background: Polyamines, including putrescine (PU), spermidine (SPD), and spermine (SPM), are ubiquitous bioactive compounds essential for cell proliferation, genomic stability, autophagy, and the regulation of oxidative and inflammatory responses. Growing evidence, particularly for SPD, suggests that polyamine-rich diets may protect against age-related conditions such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative disorders. As endogenous polyamine synthesis declines with age, dietary intake becomes increasingly important, especially in older adults. Methods: This study estimated each polyamine (PU, SPD and SPM) and total polyamine intake in the Spanish population using food consumption data from the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Intakes were evaluated across four age groups, and major dietary sources were identified. Results: Total polyamine intake increased with age, reaching 393 µmol/day in adults over 65 years. PU accounted for 49% of total intake, followed by SPD (29%) and SPM (22%). Plant-based foods were the primary contributors to SPD intake, particularly vegetables (36%), fruits (26%), and cereals (18%). PU intake was also predominantly plant-derived, mainly from fruits (58%) and vegetables (23%), whereas SPM intake was largely associated with meat products (59%). A theoretical Mediterranean diet model yielded a slightly higher total polyamine intake of 406.6 µmol/day and a substantially greater SPD intake than that observed in older adults (193.99 µmol/day versus 121.62 µmol/day). Conclusions: Overall, estimated polyamine intake in the Spanish population fell below the optimal level of 540 µmol/day proposed in the literature. These findings highlight the need for public health strategies promoting consumption of polyamine-rich foods, particularly vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fruits, to support healthy aging and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.
Modulation of volatile profiles in wine produced following ancientpractices: A comparison between pitch-coated and uncoated amphorae
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-07-01) Abarca-Rivas, Clara; Lamuela Raventós, Rosa Ma.; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Pérez Bosch, Maria; Corrado, Marina; Zifferero, Andrea; Chessa, Riccardo; Rossellini, Daniele; Reynolds, Paul; Pecci, Alessandra
Reviving ancient winemaking techniques, such as so called amphora fermentation, is gaining attention for producing wines with distinctive sensory profiles. This is the first study that investigates the impact of Pinaceae pitch coating on experimental wine volatile composition in coated and uncoated ceramic vessels. Using HS-SPME/GC-MS, we identified 52 compounds, with significant differences between samples. This highlights the influence of pitch coating on fermentation dynamics and volatile profile development, with potential implications for aroma. Several pitch-derived compounds, including pitch biomarkers, were detected exclusively in wines produced in coated vessels, suggesting direct migration from the pitch. Coating also modified the abundance of esters, acids and alcohols, likely due to differences in micro-oxygenation and potentially by yeast metabolism. These preliminary findings provide new insights into the role of vessel coatings in shaping wine aroma and open avenues for targeted modulation of wine profiles through material selection.
Managing bioactive amines in plant-based fermented products
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-03-01) Costa-Catala, Judit; Tabanelli, Giulia; Diez González, Alicia; Latorre Moratalla, Mariluz; Vidal Carou, Ma. Carmen; Comas Basté, Oriol
The fermentation of vegetable products is gaining interest due to its ability to extend shelf life and reduce food waste. Additionally, the perceived health benefits of certain fermented foods and the growing popularity of plant-based diets have led to greater consumption and diversification of fermented products. However, fermentation can also promote the accumulation of biogenic amines, which may pose health risks. This study investigated the content of bioactive amines in various commercial plant-based fermented products and evaluated a novel strategy to reduce biogenic amine accumulation by the addition of an active ingredient derived from lyophilised green pea sprouts containing the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO). Among the tested products, sauerkraut and soy sauce exhibited the highest total biogenic amines levels, with the greatest variability between samples. In contrast, average biogenic amines levels in kimchi, tempeh, miso, soybean paste and a cashew-based cheese analogue were moderate with less variability. No biogenic amines were detected in kombucha. Spermidine and spermine were present in most products, reflecting their natural occurrence in plant ingredients. When the DAO-containing active ingredient was added to laboratory-scale sauerkraut, it significantly reduced biogenic amine levels after seven days: cadaverine decreased by 80 %, putrescine by 70 %, histamine by 23 % and tyramine by 11 %. When all four biogenic amines were simultaneously present in the sauerkraut, the selectivity and effectiveness of the active ingredient were maintained. This novel approach may contribute to the development of safer, higher-quality fermented plant products while benefiting histamine-intolerant consumers.
Comparative Assessment of the Nutritional Profile of Meat Products and Their Plant-Based Analogues
(MDPI, 2023-06-01) Costa-Catala Judit; Toro Funes, Natalia; Comas Basté, Oriol; Hernández-Macias, Salvador; Sánchez-Pérez, Sònia; Veciana Nogués, María Teresa; Castell Garralda, Victòria; Vidal Carou, Ma. Carmen; Latorre Moratalla, Mariluz
Vegetarian and vegan diets are increasingly being adopted in Spain, a trend mainly driven by ethical concerns for animal welfare and the environment. This has resulted in a growing market for plant-based substitutes of meat products. However, available data on the nutritional value of such meat analogues in Mediterranean countries are still limited. In this study, the labelling information of four categories of plant-based meat analogues (n = 100) and the corresponding conventional meat products (n = 48) available on the Spanish market was surveyed and compared. The nutrient content of plant-based meat analogues varied significantly, due to the wide range of ingredients used in their formulation. Some of these products were found to have a low protein content, which in others was enhanced by the addition of cereals and legumes. Compared to the meat products, the plant-based analogues contained lower levels of total fat as well as saturated fat, which ranged from 30% of total fat in burgers to less than 15% in meatballs, sausages, and nuggets; in contrast, they contained higher amounts of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Overall, the meat analogues cannot be considered as nutritionally equivalent substitutes to conventional meat products due to a high variability of protein content and other nutrients.

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