bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Altered Membranous Architecture in Vascular Smooth Muscle Contractility
Authors: Kuo Kuo‐Hsing
Published: November 2023

Vascular smooth muscle is the direct effector on contractility of blood vessels and is pivotal in maintaining hemodynamic stability. In response to agonist stimulations, such as neurotransmitters, hormones or drugs, the smooth muscle cell (SMC) contracts in close correspondence to the local fluctuations of intracellular calcium ions (Ca2+), which is accomplished by a sequence of repetitive Ca2+ cycling events till the agonist is removed. In brief, the Ca2+ cycles are initiated by receptors binding on the plasma membrane (PM) and followed by: (1) Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) to activate the contractile machinery, (2) Ca2+ entering through the PM to refill SR Ca2+ storage and (3) Ca2+ removal from the cytosol, all underly the mechanisms of local and wave‐like Ca2+ transient signals. The membranous microarchitecture and microdomain, flanked by the PM and peripheral SR, are the gates to Ca2+ entry/removal and regulate Ca2+ signals. Altered PM may compromise the encoding of the Ca2+ signal and further affect SMC contractility. The objective of this study is to investigate the functional role of the membranous microarchitecture, the caveolar domain in specific, during adrenergic stimulation.

The denuded venous vascular smooth muscle was incubated with the cholesterol depleting agent, methyl‐B‐cyclodextrin (MCD), to disrupt the caveolar domain to assess the impact of the altered PM on phenylephrine (PE)‐induced contractility. We observed enhanced sensitivity to PE and a right shift of the dose‐response curve for force generation in the MCD‐treated SMC. Ultrastructurally, the MCD‐treated SMC were characterized by a wavy PM, lack of caveolar domains and enlarged peripheral SR. Notably, the frequency of the wave‐like transient Ca2+ was also enhanced by a dose‐dependent feature to PE concentrations. We believe that the intensified frequency of the wave‐like Ca2+ signal underlies the enhanced PE sensitivity in MCD‐treated SMC and disrupted caveolar domains may delay Ca2+ removal and augment SR Ca2+ retention, contributing to the intensified frequency of the Ca2+ signals.

Support or Funding Information

The Discovery Grant by The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
Effect of Agave Inulin Commercial Consumption in Gluten Diet on Digestibility and Protein Utilization Assessed by Bioassays in Growing Rats
Authors: Villa María Refugio Falcon , Gálvez Kevin Díaz , Chávez Manuel Contreras , Morales Linda Rivera , Peñúñuri Liliana Torres
Published: November 2023

In the last decade functional foods in human and animal nutrition have gained in importance. Prebiotics are formulated into an increasing number of foods, the implications of the evolutionary role of prebiotics in human health and wellbeing are unknown. There is growing interest in the use of inulins as substrates for the selective growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli because recent studies have established that their prebiotic effect is linked to several health benefits, but the consumption of agave inulin in foods could have an impact on the digestibility and protein quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of agave inulin consumption on the protein quality of gluten diet, by bioassays, employing Sprague Dawley rat as an experimental model. Four synthetic diets were prepared using gluten as the sole source of protein with three different ingredients of fiber: agave inulin, soluble fiber with resistant maltodextrins, fiber of cellulose and the diet without fiber as a control. Biological indicators were determined, Net Protein Ratio (NPR) and % Apparent and true digestibility of nitrogen (ADN, TDN). Results were analyzed by a statistical program by 95% significance. ADN and TDN of gluten diet with agave inulin fiber ranged from 89.7% to 93.7% respectively and NPR result was 1.87, results lower than gluten diet with cellulose and gluten diet without fiber. The results demonstrated that the agave inulin consumption in gluten diet showed decrease in digestibility and RNP in gluten diet.
Capillary architecture in skeletal muscle on chronic kidney disease rats
Authors: Murakami Shinichiro , Sakita Masahiro , Huo Ming , Kondo Hiroyo , Kanazashi Miho , Tanaka Minoru , Tanaka Masayuki , Fujino Hidemi
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose

Kidney disease increases risk of blood vessel and capillary disease. In case of chronic kidney disease (CKD), these problems may happen slowly over a long period of time. The thing about heart in particular is well known. Chronic kidney disease may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure and other disorders. Hypertension causes CKD and CKD causes hypertension. Anyone can get CKD at any age and any sex. However, some people are more easily to get kidney disease than others. That two main causes of CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure. Those diseases fail with blood vessel and capillary in various factors. In any case, the blood vessel system is connected with kidney disease deeply. However, muscle capillary architecture of kidney disease is not observed. Our aim is to make skeletal muscle capillary architecture in CKD clear.

Materials/Methods

12 Wistar rats (age; 16wks) were randomly divided into CKD group (n=6) and Sham operation (SHAM) group (n=6). Rats in CKD group suffered from a chronic kidney failure artificially. The details are as follows; 1. When 16wks old, under anesthesia with pentobarbital, we removed the right kidney surgically. 2. When 17wks old, under anesthesia with pentobarbital, we removed the two‐third left kidney surgically. 3. When 23wks old, we injected fluorescer into soleus muscle and removed it out. 4. Those muscles were frozen and were observed with confocal laser microscope. In SHAM group, they were operated for at the same time, but the kidney was not removed surgically. The kidney was extracted to outside from rat and it was returned to rat without removing it surgically. The microscope image was analyzed in NIH Image software and it was compared. All data were presented as the means ± SEM. All statistical tests were done using an unpaired Student's –test. P<0.05 indicates a significant difference.

Results

On 23 wks old CKD, body weight and soleus weight were decrease. Feeding volumes were same. Urinary albumin/urinary creatine value was increase. Data from the morphological measurement of the CLSM images by the NIH Image software. The mean microvessel volume of CKD rats were significantly lower than that in the SHAM rats. Capillary architecture of CKD was looser than that in SHAM. Moreover, capillary diameter of CKD was smaller than that in SHAM.

Conclusions

These results indicate that capillary volume in skeletal muscle may decrease by only kidney disease. It not include diabetes and/or hypertension. Diabetes and/or hypertension also decrease capillary volume. These relations are our future issues.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by Grants‐in‐Aid for Scientific Research from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (Grant no. 10582190)
Evaluation of Toxicological Effects of Toad Parotid Gland Extract On Liver Architecture of Wistar Rat
Authors: Ihentuge Churchill Jonadab , Ugochukwu Chioma , Ndukwe Godwin , Akpuaka Frank
Published: November 2023

Bufotoxin is one of the world's strongest naturally occurring hallucinogen and it is a commom practice for people to milk these from bufo species and smoke the dried substances they excrete. Twenty four adult Wistar rats, weighing between 150–200g, were used in the study to evaluate the toxicological effects of Bufotoxins on histomorphology of liver of wistar rats. They were divided into four groups of six animals each designated as groups A, B, C and D. Group A served as Control group and was fed with diet and tap water only throughout the experimental period. Groups B, C and D were fed with standard diet and given a solution of extract of Bufotoxin (Toad Poison) at a daily dose of 5mg/kgbw, 10mg/kgbw and 15mg/kgbw respectively for two days. Twenty four hours after the administration of last dose, rats were sacrificed and the liver was dissected out from each group, observed and processed for histological study. Results showed a decrease in physical activity of rats in groups B, C and D after thirty minutes of administration of first dose. Progressive weakness and staggered movement were also observed. Hemorrhage was observed from all the orifices of the body including the conjunctiva from groups C and D twenty four hours after the last administration. The dissected liver was also hemorrhagic in groups B, C and D. Histologically, the liver architecture in group B showed mild inflammation and cellular infiltrations while that of groups C and D were massive with complete loss of liver architecture in group D. Group A appear normal with well orientated hepatocytes. This showed that Bufotoxins is capable of causing liver damage in a dose dependent manner.
Effect of Chia Seed (Salvia hispanica, L) Supplementation on Body Composition, Weight, Post‐prandial Glucose and Satiety
Authors: Wu Hilary , Sung Anne , Burns‐Whitmore Bonny , Jo Edward , Wien Michelle
Published: November 2023

Research regarding the beneficial intake of chia seeds (high in α‐linolenic acid and dietary fiber) on body composition, weight, post‐prandial glucose levels (PPG) and satiety, in healthy female subjects is limited. Therefore, we sought to investigate the effects of adding 20% of daily calories from chia seeds on disease risk factors such as fat mass(FM), fat free mass(FFM), and body weight(BW), satiety, and PPG in healthy, free‐living females.

College females (n=23) participated in a randomized, crossover design consisting of two five‐week diet treatment periods 1) chia seeds added (CHIA); 2) without chia seeds (CON), separated by a 5‐week washout. Body composition was measured with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA). Fasting glucose and PPG were measured at baseline and 60min after chia consumption. Satiety was measured by visual analog scale (VAS) appetite questionnaires. IBM SPSS v22 analyzed PPG (MANOVA), satiety, FM, FFM, and BW, (one‐way ANOVA), and the VAS appetite questionnaires (independent t‐test).

There was a significant main effect for time for BW (pre = 55.2 kg, post = 54.7kg), BF (pre = 29.9%, post = 29.2%), FM (pre = 16.5kg, post = 15.9kg), and FFM (pre = 36.6kg, post = 36.4kg), and no significance for treatment by time or for all BIA variables, before, during and after meal satiety; or VAS and PPG between the CHIA and CON treatments. Consuming chia as 20% of calories does not contribute to weight gain or body composition changes.

Support or Funding Information

Salba Smart Natural Products, LLC
Effects of Garcinia Kola Extract on the Testicular Sperm Reserve of Adult Male Guinea Pig
Authors: Okechukwu Hope Kelechi , Ihentuge Churchill Jonadab , Ndukwe Godwin
Published: November 2023

The effect of Garcinia Kola extract on testicular sperm reserve was investigated by using varying concentrations and duration of administration of the extract. Twenty‐five adult male Guinea pigs were randomly divided into five groups containing five Guinea pigs in each group. The first four groups served as experimental groups and the other one served as control group. The Guinea pigs in group A was given a dose that ranged from 60.0 to 37.5mg/kg body weight with a concentration of 100mg/kg body weight while those of group B were given a dose that ranged from 200 to 75mg/kg having a concentration of 500mg/kg body weight. Group A and Group B had time duration of just one week. The Guinea Pigs in Group C was given a dose that ranged from 40.0mg to 20.0mg/kg body weight with a concentration of 100mg/kg body weight, while those of Group D were given a dose that ranged from 175mg to 75mg/kg body weight having a concentration of 500mg/kg body weight. The two Groups had time duration of two weeks. The extract was administered orally daily, for the one and two weeks consecutively. Group E served as the control group. The animals were weighed, sacrificed and the testes collected the right testis was macerated in 2ml of semen diluting fluid until a homogenous mixture was formed. An improved Neubauer's Chamber was used to determine the testicular sperm reserve. The control Group had a significant higher (p<0.05) testicular sperm reserve than the treated Groups, especially Groups B and D that had doses with concentration of 500mg/kg body weight. The extract did not exhibit any effect on the testicular body mass. The result suggests that oral administration of Garcinia Kola extract reduced testicular sperm reserve of male Guinea Pigs in a concentration dependent manner.
Effect of Fermented Feed on Intestinal Morphology, Immune Status, Carcass and Growth Performance of Emei Black Chickens
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhu Jianjin , Sun Jin , Li Ya , Wang Panpan , Jiang Rong , Rahman Md Ramim Tanver
Published: November 2023

Many substances including fermented feed (FF) is being evaluated as alternative to antibiotics. The aimed of this study was to investigate the effect of dietaries containing different levels of fermented feed (FF) and antibiotics on growth performance, intestinal morphology, immune status, carcass performance on slow‐growing chicken named chicken Emei black chicken. Total of 560 one day‐old broilers were randomly allocated into five treatment. The five dietary treatments were: 1) CON (basal diet); 2) AG (basal diet supplemented with bacitracin 80 mg/kg + colistin sulfate 20mg/kg); 3) I (basal diet + 2% FF); 4) II (basal diet + 4% FF); 5) III (basal diet + 6% FF), the trail last 56 days. Dietary supplementation with FF at levels of 2% significantly increased feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratios(FCR) during 22–42 d, decreased the average daily gain (ADG ) and FI during 43–56d (P < 0.05). The diets supplemented with antibiotics significantly increased body weight (BW) compared to diets with 2% FF at day 56. On d 28, the dietary addition of FF at level of 6% significantly increased intestinal length index, villus height as well as crypt depth of ileum. The dietary addition of FF at level of 4% and antibiotic significantly increased V/C (villus height/crypt depth); the dietary addition of FF and antibiotics extremely significantly increased plasma IgG and S‐IgA (Secretory IgA) in duodenum, and also significantly increased acetic and propionate concentration in ceca; However, on d 56, the dietary addition of FF at level of 6% significantly increased abdominal fat percentage. In conclusion, it is indicated that FF has significant influence on broiler's immune system and intestinal morphology which can be used as potential alternative to antibiotics.
Maternal 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D, Vitamin D Binding Protein Gene Polymorphisms, and Infant Birth Weights
Authors: Chung Jayong , Chun Soo‐Kyung , Lee Hyo‐Suk , Kim Mun‐Young , Joung Hyojee
Published: November 2023

There is evolving evidence that maternal vitamin D status may influence birth outcomes, but findings vary among populations. In this study, we investigated whether genetic variations in vitamin D binding protein (DBP) modify the relationship between maternal 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and infant birth weight. 25(OH)D concentrations in maternal and cord blood were measured by LC‐MS/MS method from 374 pregnant women and their infants. Information on birth weight was collected from the patients’ medical records. DNA was extracted from the maternal blood and genotyped for three single nucleotide polymorphisms in DBP gene (rs12512631, rs7041, and rs2282679). The mean 25(OH)D concentration was significantly higher in the maternal blood (18.8 ng/ml) than in the cord blood (10.8ng/ml). The rs12512631 and rs7041, but not rs2282679, significantly modified the relationships between maternal or cord blood 25(OH)D and birth weights. Maternal and cord blood 25(OH)D were positively associated with birth weight in mothers with rs12512631 CT+CC genotype, but no such relationships were found in those with rs12512631 TT genotype (p for interaction <0.05). Also, cord blood 25(OH)D was positively associated with birth weight in rs7041 GT+GG genotypes, but not in rs7041 TT genotypes (p for interaction <0.05). Our study suggests that the interaction between 25(OH)D and genetic variants of DBP gene in mothers modify the birth weight of their infants.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the NRF (2013R1A1A2007613)
Consumption of Total Fruit, Vegetables, Whole Grains, and Added Sugars in Those <24 Months of Age from NHANES, 2001–2012
Authors: Fulgoni Victor L , Agarwal Sanjiv
Published: November 2023

Infant nutrition and that of early childhood are important for growth and development and nutrition practices learned at this age may influence life‐long intake. The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate the pattern of intake of total fruits, total vegetables, whole grains, and added sugars in those <24 months of age using data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2001–2012 (n=4,406). Using the USDA Food Patterns Equivalent Database (FPED) we determined amount and food sources of total fruits, total vegetables, whole grains, and added sugars in subjects 0–2 (n=655), 3–5 (n=692), 6–8 (n=664), 9–11 (n‐679), 12–14 (n=426), 15–17 (n=442 ), 18–21 (n=422), 21–23 (n=425) months (mths) of age. Total vegetables increased from virtually nothing at 0–2 mths to about 0.5 cup equivalents (eq) at 9–11 mths but only increased to 0.6 cup eq at 21–23 mths (Table 1). Total fruit intake increase from virtually nothing at 0–2 mths to 0.94 cup eq at 9–11 mths and increased to 1.44 cup eq at 21–23 mths (Table 1). At 6–8 mths whole grain intake was 0.32 oz eq but only increased to 0.44 oz eq at 21–23 mths. Added sugars rose from virtually nothing at 0–2 mths to about 2.4 tsp eq at 9–11 mths and continued to increase until at 21–23 mths added sugars intake was 9.2 tsp eq (Table 1). Up to 9–11 mths the sources of vegetables was predominantly baby foods; thereafter a large number of other foods were providing vegetables to the diet. For fruits, baby food and baby juice were predominant sources until 6–8 mths where other fruits and juices were beginning to be consumed in small quantities; by 9–11 mths there were even more different fruit and juices providing fruit to the diet and this variety was maintained through 21–23 mths. Before 9 mths whole grains sources were predominantly baby food cereals; at 9–11 mths other sources included lower sugar ready‐to‐eat cereals, yeast bread, and oatmeal. These sources were maintained through 21–23 mths but a larger variety of other foods provided small amounts of whole grains. At 9–11 mths small amounts of added sugars were appearing from fruit drinks, cookies and brownies, yogurt, and higher sugar ready‐to‐eat cereals. These sources were main contributors of added sugar in older groups and many more sources of added sugars appeared in the diet (at 21–23 mths the foods providing more than 5% of added sugars in the diet were fruit drinks, cookies and brownies, soft drinks, and higher sugar ready‐to‐eat cereals). These data indicate there are opportunities to improve the diet of children <24 mths by providing more vegetables, whole grains, maintaining or even increasing fruit intake, and moderating added sugars from less nutrient dense options.

Support or Funding Information

Funding provided by Beech‐Nut Nutrition Company.
The economic burden of breakfast skipping in Mexico
Authors: Afeiche Myriam , Patron Alberto Prieto , Gentile‐Rapinett Gertrude , Detzel Patrick
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives

Recent data from the 2012 National Health and Nutrition Survey in Mexico showed that 18% of 5 to 14 year old children skipped breakfast. Breakfast skipping is associated with higher odds of overweight and obesity, lower nutrient adequacy, lower cognitive performance (such as memory and attention), and lower academic achievement (such as school performance). These outcomes are, in turn, directly linked to social economic losses; however, no previous study has assessed the economic impact of breakfast skipping in Mexico. The aim of this study was to estimate the economic burden of breakfast skipping related to lower cognitive performance and academic achievement.

Methods

The following data were used: the 2012 National Health and Nutrition Survey (prevalence of breakfast skipping and school attendance), literature review of published peer‐reviewed articles examining the effect of breakfast skipping on cognition and school performance, in addition to economic data (local wages, expected economic growth, and returns on education in Mexico). A mathematical model was developed following a health economic approach in school‐aged children through human capital accumulation to estimate the losses of breakfast skipping. Lower school performance and cognitive outcomes were assumed to impact future child wages throughout their adult working life. The future production losses were discounted to estimate the net present value.

Results

Preliminary results showed that the annual economic burden from breakfast skipping in Mexico in children 5 to 14 years old in 2015 was 4 billion US dollars or 6.7 billon purchasing power parity US dollars. This figure is equivalent to 0.3% of the Mexican Gross Domestic Product. On average each child who regularly skipped breakfast had an estimated loss of 1’150 USD; 987 USD due to lower school performance and 163 USD due to years of school lost. A reduction of the breakfast skipping rate of 1% in children aged 5 to 14 years old would bring an annual economic social benefit of 240 million USD due to its impact on cognitive outcomes and academic achievement.

Conclusion

The model shows that small reductions of breakfast skipping rates could have a positive economic impact for society. These results only represent a partial benefit as reduction of breakfast skipping could also be associated with higher micronutrient adequacy and lower overweight rates in both childhood and adulthood which could bring additional economic and health benefits.

Support or Funding Information

Nestlé Research Center
Ferulic acid suppresses adipogenesis via activation of HO‐1 in 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Koh Eun‐Jeong , Choi Jia , Lee Yeon‐Joo , Hwang Ji‐Hyeon , Seo Young‐Jin , Song Ji‐Hyeon , Lee Boo‐Yong
Published: November 2023

Background

Ferulic acid (FA) is a phenolic phytochemical commonly found in many herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. Many studies suggest that FA suppresses adipocyte differentiation in 3T3‐L1. However, the detail molecular mechanism of FA on adipogenesis in 3T3‐L1 cells has still not been fully understood yet.

Methods

3T3‐L1 pre‐adipocyte has been used to evaluate the effect of FA on adipocyte development in the differentiation stage dependent manner in vitro. Oil red O staining has been conducted to measure of intracellular lipid accumulation. We analyzed the protein expression using western blot in adipocytes.

Results

FA decreased lipid accumulation in late stage differentiation of 3T3‐L1 cells. FA dramatically increased HO‐1 activity.

Conclusion

We demonstrated Rg1 suppress mitotic clonal expension via activating of HO‐1 in 3T3‐L1 cells. These results indicate FA might hold the potential effect to reduce the body fat accumulation in obesity.
Promotion of Glucose Uptake in C2C12 Myotubes by Cereal Flavone, Tricin and Its Underlying Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Kim Sohyun , Imm Jee‐Young
Published: November 2023

Tricin is a widely distributed flavonoid found in outer layer of cereal crops. The effect of tricin on glucose uptake and its underlying mechanism were evaluated using C2C12 mouse skeletal muscle cells. The glucose uptake determined by 2‐deoxy‐2‐[(7‐nitro‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazol‐4‐yl)amino]‐D‐glucose (2‐NBDG) was significantly increased in a dose dependent manner by the addition of tricin and tricin increased glucose uptake by 1.4‐fold at 20 μM. The glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to the plasma membrane observed using confocal laser scanning microscopy was significantly increased by tricin treatment. The molecular mechanism of tricin mediated glucose uptake was examined by Western blot analysis. Tricin increased activation of protein kinase B (Akt) and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) involved in both insulin‐dependent and insulin‐independent signaling pathways. These result suggest that tricin promotes glucose uptake via Akt and AMPK signaling pathways in C2C12 myotubes and has potential as an anti‐diabetic agent.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning (2014R1A2A2A01007169)
Can dairy consumption improve cardiometabolic health? A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fekete Agi , Givens Ian , Lovegrove Julie
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the major causes of death all around the world [1]. Milk and dairy products have been linked with cardioprotective roles in our diet [2]. A cross‐sectional study was conducted to evaluate the association between milk and dairy intake, and cardiometabolic health in mildly hypertensive UK adults. Dietary assessment was performed by use of the EPIC Norfolk food frequency questionnaire. Office BP and measures of vascular stiffness (pulse wave analysis (PWA) and digital volume pulse (DVP)) were conducted to assess cardiovascular health status. Weight, BMI and serum cholesterol, triacylglycerol and glucose were also assessed. Fifty‐three volunteers were involved in this study with a mean (SD) age of 51.7 (13) y and BP of 134/82 (13 and 10) mmHg and a mean milk and dairy intake of 399 g/day. Total milk and dairy product consumption had no effect on BP or arterial stiffness (PWA, DVP), nor on weight, BMI and serum cholesterol or triacylglycerol. However serum glucose was inversely associated with milk and dairy intake (r=−0.328, p=0.017) and milk (portion) (r=−0.277, p=0.044). No associations between milk, cream, yoghurt, butter and BP or vascular function measures were observed. However cheese was significantly associated with lower diastolic BP (DBP) (r=−0.390, p=0.004), peripheral DBP (r=−0.405, p=0.003), central DBP (r=−0.409, p=0.002) and central mean pressure (r=−0.290, p=0.035). Yoghurt consumption was associated with lower body weight (r=−0.312, p=0.023) and serum triacylglycerol concentrations (r=−0.361, p=0.08). In conclusion milk, cheese and yoghurt consumption may have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health in a mildly hypertensive population.
Evaluation of an Insulin Sensitivity Index from the Short Intravenous Glucose Tolerance Test
Authors: Maki Kevin C , Cook Chad M , Huebner Margie , Palacios Orsolya M
Published: November 2023

The aim of this analysis was to compare insulin sensitivity indices calculated from a short (50 min), insulin‐modified intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT; Tura SI) to that from a full 180 min IVGTT using minimal model analysis (MM SI), as well as the Matsuda Index (M‐SI) from a 120 min liquid meal tolerance test (Maki et al. Diabetes Tech Ther 2011;13:661–6). The IVGTT included glucose (0.3 g/kg, t = 0 min) and regular human insulin (0.03 U/kg; t = 20 min) injection with samples collected at frequent intervals over 180 min. Tura SI was calculated as the fractional glucose disappearance rate/average increment in plasma insulin, both from 10–50 min. The MINMOD MILLENNIUM program (v6.02) was used to calculate MM SI. Subjects were overweight or obese men (n = 8) and women (n = 16) without diabetes who agreed to participate in a substudy after completing a dietary intervention trial. Mean ± SEM MM SI was 3.94 ± 3.38 × 10−4 L*min−1*mU−1, age was 48.9 ± 2.0 y and body mass index was 30.8 ± 0.6 kg/m2. Pearson correlation coefficients were: Tura SI with MM SI r = 0.963, Tura SI with M‐SI r = 0.803, and MM SI with M‐SI r = 0.776, all p < 0.001. Thus, Tura SI from the first 50 min of an insulin‐modified IVGTT correlates very strongly with 180 min MM SI (reference method), and the relationship between Tura SI with M‐SI was similar in magnitude to that between MM SI and M‐SI. These results suggest that the short IVGTT may be used as a less costly and time‐consuming alternative to the 180 min IVGTT for assessment of whole‐body insulin sensitivity.

Support or Funding Information

Ingredion, Westchester, IL
A Genome‐Wide Identification of Target Genes Responsible for Anti‐Adipogenic Activity of D‐Psicose, a Sugar Substitute, in C57BL/6J‐ob/ob Mice
Authors: Kim Sung‐Eun , Kim Su Jeong , Kim Hye‐Jung , Sung Mi‐Kyung
Published: November 2023

Excess intake of added sugar has been shown to increase visceral fat and the risk of metabolic diseases including obesity and type II diabetes. In an attempt to decrease sugar intake, rare sugars and their derivatives that exist in limited quantities in nature, have been recently developed as a sugar substitute. D‐psicose, a C‐3 epimer of D‐fructose, is known to have anti‐adipogenic property. However, the mechanistic explanation on its anti‐adipogenic effect has not been clearly understood. Here, we investigated the effect of dietary D‐psicose substitution for sucrose on adipose tissue fat deposition and identified target genes. C57BL/6J ob/ob mice were assigned to receive either the AIN‐93G or the 5% D‐psicose diet for 12 weeks. At necropsy, blood and white adipose tissue samples were collected for further analyses. We performed genome‐wide analysis of gene expression in white adipose tissue using Illumina MouseRef‐8 and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis was used for network analysis. The mRNA expression of genes related with inflammation and lipid metabolism in white adipose tissue was also determined. D‐Psicose supplementation suppressed final body weight, adipose tissue mass, adipocyte size, and serum total cholesterol concentration, while it increased serum HDL‐cholesterol to LDL‐cholesterol ratio. We identified 64 down‐ and 39 up‐regulated genes associated with inflammatory response (network 1), molecular transport (network 2), and lipid metabolism (networks 3 and 4) in response to D‐psicose supplementation. D‐Psicose supplementation decreased the mRNA expression of genes related with inflammation (TNF‐α, IL‐6, MCP‐1) and adipo/lipogenesis (PPAR‐α, PPAR‐γ, C/EBP‐α, SREBP‐1, aP2, LPL, FAS), whereas expression of β‐oxidation‐related genes (CPT‐1, HSL) was increased. It appears that D‐psicose responsive down‐regulation of genes involved in inflammatory response including FOS, CD44, CD36, and IL7R and lipid metabolism such as FFAR4 was associated with the changes in inflammation and lipid metabolism in adipose tissue of obese mice. In conclusion, our data suggest several target genes responsible, at least in part, for anti‐adipogenic activity of D‐psicose.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by the High Value‐added Food Technology Development Program (No.113035‐3) funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
Preliminary Results of Gastric Restriction with phytobezoar in Rats
Authors: Tito Pedro Queiroz Ferreira , Itezerote Ana Maria , Saleh Samir Omar , Hojaij Flávio , Andrade Mauro , Martinez Carlos Augusto Real , Akamatsu Flávia Emi , Jacomo Alfredo Luiz
Published: November 2023

Obesity is considered a worldwide epidemic today. It is related to metabolic disorders and increased mortality. As an alternative to unsuccessful medical treatment, bariatric surgery promotes weight loss and reduction of associated diseases.

The present study used animal models to analyze intestinal disorders as resulted from acute weight loss. We used Adult, male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albicans) weighing between 250–350 grams. In order to reduce the gastric capacity and cause significant weight loss, without causing anemia, it was chosen to perform a surgical procedure. The rats Were submitted to laparotomy and gastrostomy to reduce gastric capacity by insertion of a cylindrical sleeve Luffa (loofah) (1.5cm in diameter) made of cylindrical luffa, producing experimental phytobezoar.

The animals of Sham group (S) were exposed to the same surgical procedure described above, except for the implant of phytobezoar. From the first day after surgery, the animals were divided into six groups of 10 animals each, the first group of 10 days until euthanasia was subjected to the stomach reduction surgery (R10), the second group of 21 days until euthanasia under the same conditions above (R21), both with their respective controls sham (S10/S21) and normal controls (C10/C21) 10 and 21 days. Each animal was weighed every other day until the day of euthanasia. Sections of small intestine slides were stained with hematoxylin eosin and analyzed in order to measure length of the crypts and the number of goblet cells were recorded.

Statistical analysis used Student t test and to compare weight, goblet cells and crypts length in the experimental, sham and control groups. The analysis of goblet cell count on C10 group indicated a statistically significant higher number compared to the R10. However, the length of C10 is significantly lower than the R10 group. The reduction verified on the Restriction group (R10) suggests that phytobezoar's presence causes a reduction in crypts height which clinically translates in to reduction of absorption and secretive capacity of the enteric mucosa.
Development of Modular Diet for Children with Branched‐chain Organic Acidurias Using Locally Available Raw Materials
Authors: Chatvuttinun Suthida , Wattanasirichaigoon Duangrurdee , Suthutvoravut Umaporn , Chongviriyaphan Nalinee , Chavasit Visith
Published: November 2023

Branched‐chain organic acidurias resulted from abnormal specific enzymes involving catabolism of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs). The common organic acidurias are maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), isovaleric acidemia (IVA), propionic acidemia (PA), and methylmalonic acidemia (MMA). Long‐term management includes certain amino acid restriction and metabolic formulas to provide adequate energy and protein. Due to high cost and shortage of metabolic formula, we aimed to formulate modular diets (MDs) as an alternative treatment product for children with BCAAs disorders aged 4–15 years. Raw materials locally available in Thailand were analyzed and selected. Fish maw and roasted sunflower kernel were used as protein sources due to their proper leucine contents. Carbohydrate source includes maltodextrin and sucrose. Soy bean oil and/or non‐dairy creamer were fat sources. The diets were developed for 2 applications including (i) MD‐A, low in leucine for MSUD, was prepared in powder form, and (ii) MD‐B, low in leucine for IVA, and low in valine for PA and MMA, was prepared in powder form, seasoning powder, instant powder drink, and chocolate flavored snack. The diets were analyzed for macronutrient composition and amino acid profile. Per 100 g, the MD‐A diet provided 512 kcal with 9.9 g protein (P), 59.1 g carbohydrate (CHO), and 26.2 g fat (F). Energy, protein, carbohydrate, and fat contents per 100 g of MD‐B ranged 546–601 kcal, 8.2–12.3 g, 36.7–51 g, and 33.6–51 g, respectively. Energy and macronutrient contents were comparable to the commercial formula. Costs of raw materials in the MDs were US$ 0.42–0.51 per 100 g.

Locally available raw materials could be used for developing MDs for children with BCAAs disorders at low cost. The products are useful for low‐income patients in developing countries. The efficacy of these MDs used as an alternative treatment in children with branched‐chain organic acidurias should be further evaluated.

Support or Funding Information

This research work is partially supported by RA scholarship from the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Mahidol University Academic Year 2012
Implementation of a Nutrition Education Program in Primary Schools in an Area with Patrimonial Poverty in Monterrey, Mexico
Authors: Saltijeral Luanda
Published: November 2023

Objective

To implement an educational intervention program for the promotion of healthy lifestyles through the improvement of nutrition practices in children of primary schools in an area with patrimonial poverty in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

Method, Participants & Intervention

The implementation was carried out during 2015 in 6 primary schools with 1450 children and 316 parents through the following activities: a) 9 school workshops, b) 5 workshops for parents and school community, c) children's clubs for a healthy lifestyle and d) evaluation of the nutritional status (weight and height) of 820 students.

Results

A pre and post intervention assessment was performed, using a Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices survey (KAP). The data analysis was descriptive.

We found a 3.5% higher prevalence for obesity in children participating when comparing with the prevalence reported at state level; however, a decrease in the daily consumption of two or more sugar‐sweetened beverages at school was found (51% vs. 9%). The consumption of two or more fresh vegetables a day increased from 27% to 47% after the intervention and the consumption of foods with high energy density decreased from 48% to 40%. Additionally, 5 children's clubs for a healthy lifestyle were formed and activities in favor of healthier school environments were carried out by each one.

Conclusions

The intervention resulted in improved nutrition‐related knowledge in children participating in the program, and therefore, better tools that allow them to select healthier foods and to be transmitters of information to their families.

Support or Funding Information

FEMSA Foundation & Save The Children
Sleep Duration and Consumption of Dietary Carbohydrate‐rich Food in Relation to Obesity according to Menopausal Status in Korean Women
Authors: Kang Bori , Doo Miae , Kim Yangha
Published: November 2023

We previously reported that women with short sleep (≤6 hours/day) duration consumed higher levels of dietary carbohydrate and showed increased odds of being obese compared with men. However, the cause of these differences was not clear. Using a cross‐sectional study of 17,841 Korean women over the age of 19 years, we studied the influence of sleep duration on obesity‐related variables and consumption of dietary carbohydrate‐rich food in relation to menopausal status. Only premenopausal women with short sleep duration had significantly higher body weight (P=0.008), body mass index (P=0.001), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P=0.029 and P=0.028, respectively), prevalence of obesity (P<0.015) and consumption of more carbohydrate‐rich foods such as staple foods (P=0.020) and simple sugar‐rich foods than those with adequate sleep (≥7 hours/day) after adjustment for age, smoking, alcohol drinking, and physical activity. Also, premenopausal women with short sleep duration were significantly more obese by greater than 1.164 times compared with adequate sleep durations. However, all anthropometric, blood biochemical variables, dietary consumption and odds for being obese were not significantly different for postmenopausal women. Among premenopausal women, short sleep duration was associated with a greater consumption of dietary carbohydrate‐rich food and increased obesity‐related variables as well as odds for being obese. Our findings showed that obesity may have been potentially impacted by short sleep. Our results suggested that menopausal status associated with short sleep may increase the risk of obesity with greater consumption of carbohydrate‐rich foods.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the Brain Korea 21 plus project funding (No. 22A20130012143).
The high‐throughput sequencing analysis of gut microbiota metagenomesequence of 16S rRNA‐V3 hypervariable region in rats receiving alcohol or probiotics
Authors: Liang Hui , Rui LV , Liu Ying , Zhou Zhitong , Fu Yong , Wang Wencheng , Liu Man
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to observe the protective effects of probiotics on alcohol‐induced changes in gut microbiota and barrier of intestinal mucosa. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group, ethanol‐model group, and probiotics‐treated group (5×108CFU/(kg•bw•d)). The liver and small intestine were collected for pathologic examination. Intestine was also used for measuring FOXO4 expression, and faeces were collected for DNA extraction and following analysis of gut microbiotametagenome sequence of 16S rRNA‐V3 hypervariable region. The results from HE staining and transmission electron microscope showed that the model of alcoholic injury was successfully estaiblished. Significant pathological changes were observed in model group and feeding probiotics improved these changes. The FOXO4 expression in ethanol‐treated group was decreased compared to the control group (OD values at 0.115±0.064 versus 0.264±0.023), and this decrease was partially prevented in probiotics‐treated group (OD values at 0.187±0.089)(P<0.05). The results from the high‐throughput sequencing analysis revealed that the mean value of OTUs in control group, ethanol‐treated group, and probiotics‐treated group were 6044, 5774, and 6403, respectively. The indexes of both ACE and Chao were decreased in ethanol‐treated group compared to the control group (27706±3532 versus 32356±4091) and (16135±2583 vs 17958±2070), respectively; these ethanol‐induced decreases were partially prevented by probiotics (28287±3553) and (17243±2017) for ACE and Chao, respectively. The index of shannon was higher in ethanol‐treated group (6.89±0.15) than control group (7.01±0.15) and probiotics group (7.14±0.30). The index of Simpson was higher in ethanol‐treated group (0.006±0.001) than in control group (0.004±0.001) and probiotics group (0.004±0.001). At phylum level, the predominant phylum were Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Bacteroidetes in gut microbiota of each groups. The quantity of Firmicutes was lower and Bacteroidetes was higher in ethanol‐treated group compared to the control group both at P<0.05), At biology level, the biology of gut microbiota in control group, ethanol‐treated group and probiotics‐treated group were 170,154, and 164 respectively. In conclusion, our results suggest that probiotics may have protective effect on gut microbiota and barrier of intestinal mucosa in alcoholic liver disease in rats.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by Grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China (No.81573137) and Dietary Nutrition Research and Education Foundation of Danone Nutrition Center (No. DIC2014‐03)
Anti‐aging and redox state regulation effects of type‐A proanthocyanidins‐rich cranberry concentrate and its comparison with grape seed extract in mice
Authors: Jiao Jingjing , Wei Yan , Zhang Yu
Published: November 2023

In current study, we investigated whether type‐A proanthocyanidins (PACs)‐rich cranberry concentrate (CBC) exerts anti‐aging and redox state regulation effects and compared with the effects of type‐B PACs‐rich grape seed extract (GSE). Using the D‐galactose‐induced aging mice model, effects of both CBC and GSE were investigated via an 8‐week oral gavage administration considering vitamin E as the positive control. Results showed that both CBC and GSE reduce hepatic and brain thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), presented as malonaldehyde (MDA) equivalents, and plasma 8‐isoprostane levels by 30%–57%, 24%–30% and 11%–62%, respectively, and decrease brain and plasma monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities by 27%–59% and 65%–71%, respectively. CBC is capable of improving hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activities by 42%, while GSE is able to enhance hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities by 13%. Therefore, CBC/GSE exerts anti‐aging effects probably via regulating in vivo redox state. Type‐A linked PACs regulate GSH‐Px activities while type‐B PACs mainly improve SOD activities, while neither generates any effect on catalase (CAT) activities. These findings provide pioneer in vivo evidence that type‐A PACs‐rich CBC has distinguished potential in aspects of anti‐aging and redox state regulation compared with well‐known type‐B PACs‐rich GSE, which deserve to be further concerned.

Support or Funding Information

National Natural Science Foundation of China (31201307)
Flavonoid from Conyza bonariensis with cytoprotective activity against H2O2‐induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells
Authors: Cheng Xiang‐Rong , Thabit Riyadh Abdulmajid Saleh , Sun Jin , Le Guo‐Wei
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was the isolation, purification and identification of flavonoid from Conyza bonariensis and the evaluation of its cytoprotective activity against H2O2‐induced toxicity in human HepG2 cells. A major flavonoid was isolated using macroporous resin D4020, silica gel and Sephadex LH ‐20 columns from C. bonariensis. The isolate was identified as 5, 7, 2′, 5′‐tetrahydroxy‐3, 4′‐dimethoxyflavone (TDF) by LC‐MS, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. The DPPH radical scavenging assay showed that the compound had a generally high antioxidant activity. The highest reducing power of the compound (0.98) was obtained at a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, with those extracted with ethanol of concentrations between 30–50% having the highest antioxidant activity and yield. The survival of the cells in a dose dependent manner and time, and the treatment of HepG2 cells with 200 μM of H2O2 for 4h resulted in an approximately 36% loss of cellular viability, compared with control cells (P < 0.05). The intracellular ROS production showed relative intensity increased significantly in a time dependent manner after H2O2 treatment compared with untreated cells (100.00 ± 5.24%) (P < 0.05). TDF can ameliorate H2O2‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis through diminishing the MDA generation and ROS level, restoring CAT, GPx, GSH, T‐AOC and SOD activity. These results demonstrated that TDF from C. bonariensis has significant protective effects against H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in HepG2 cells.
Estimation of Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity of Korean Adults
Authors: Jun Shinyoung , Chun Ock K. , Quansah Dan Yedu , Hei Yang , Joung Hyojee
Published: November 2023

Dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC), a cumulative measure of antioxidants present in the diet, has been reported to be inversely associated with risk of chronic diseases. However, little is known about dietary TAC among the Korean population. This cross‐sectional population‐based study aimed to estimate dietary TAC of 33,581 Korean adults aged 19+ years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2012. Dietary TAC was estimated from the 24‐h dietary recall data using an antioxidant database on antioxidant capacity of 43 antioxidants (i.e., vitamins A, C, E, carotenoids and flavonoids), expressed as vitamin C equivalents (VCE), developed for foods commonly consumed in Korea. Mean dietary TAC of Korean adults was 577.7 mg VCE/d mainly from flavonoids (463.9 mg VCE/d), followed by vitamin C (106.2 mg VCE/d), vitamin E (4.7 mg VCE/d), carotenoids (3.5 mg VCE/d) and retinol (0.1 mg VCE/d). The energy‐adjusted daily TAC level was higher in women, non‐current smokers, and supplement users than their counterparts, and increased with income and education (P<0.001). The major contributing food groups to dietary TAC were fruits (53.1%), vegetables (30.2%) and legumes and legume products (8.6%). Apples (23.8%), onions (13.8%), mandarines (9.8%), persimmons (9.8%), grapes (7.1%) and tofu (6.6%) were top food items contributing to dietary TAC in the Korean diet. The present study documented average dietary TAC of Korean adults and its main food sources using nationally representative data. Further research on the health effects of dietary TAC among Korean adults should follow.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean government (MSIP) (NRF‐2014R1A2A2A01003138).