bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Concept Analysis of Premature Infant Growth Failure
Authors: Schehr Lindsay
Published: November 2023

Objective

To present a concept analysis on premature infant growth failure.

Background

Controversy continues among health care providers regarding optimal premature infant growth. Varying definitions of premature infant growth failure in the literature have prevented comparison of research results and have contributed to unclear clinical guidelines for optimal premature infant growth.

Methods

Walker and Avant's (2011) method for concept analysis.

Findings

Identification of all uses of the concept, attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents led to an operational definition of premature infant growth failure. The proposed operational definition of premature infant growth failure is suboptimal growth with weight less than the 10th percentile for postmenstrual age on a standard intrauterine growth chart at discharge from the NICU caused by excessive energy expenditure and insufficient nutritional support.

Conclusions

Premature infant growth failure as a concept is not merely poor weight gain. Premature infant growth failure is a multifaceted concept as revealed in the diversity of the literature and concept analysis. The proposed operational definition of premature infant growth failure will promote a unified use of the concept in theoretical construction, research, and clinical practice.

Support or Funding Information

I have no research support or funding to disclose.
The association of weight and nutrient intakes with preterm infants in neonatal intensive care unit in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Shih‐Chien , Huang Chin‐Shiu , Lee Ming‐Sheng
Published: November 2023

Intrauterine growth curves are the standard for assessing the growth of preterm infants and are widely used in the neonatal intensive care unit setting in United States; however, we do not have our own reference growth curves in Taiwan. Therefore, due to different racial and growth environment, it is doubt that if the intrauterine growth curves in United States is applicable to Taiwanese. The nutritional intakes of preterm infants are related to growth, and influence on the intellectual development and cardiovascular metabolism. As a result, the purposes of this study were: 1) to compare the growth pattern data and draw weight‐age growth curve from the neonatal intensive care unit in Taiwan to the intrauterine growth curves; 2) to compare the nutrient intakes and weight of preterm infants before and after 2010 year; 3) to investigate the association between the nutritional situation and body weight of preterm infants. This is a retrospective study. The study duration was from December 2005 to December 2013 in neonatal intensive care unit (n = 594). Data collected included individual baseline data, anthropometric data, and preterm neonatal disease severity within 24 hours when hospitalizing and nutrient intakes. The results showed that regardless gender, gestational age (GA) less than 30 weeks, and their birth weight curves were closed to the intrauterine growth curves; however, GA more than 30 weeks, their birth weight curves were lower than intrauterine growth curves. When following the preterm infants' body weight until GA 37 weeks, the average body weight of GA 24–29 weeks was significantly higher than GA 30–35 weeks. When dividing group based on preterm infants' birth year, the fat and calorie intakes in first, second, and fourth week among the group of birth, year within 2010–2013 were significantly higher than birth year within 2005–2009. The macronutrients and calorie intakes were positive correlation with body weight among the group of birth year within 2005–2009, GA within 24–29 weeks in the first and second week after birth. The fat and calorie intakes were significant positive correlation with body weight after fourth week birthed. This study show recently the nutritional status and growth patterns are significant improved in preterm infants in Taiwan. In order to catch up the normal growth and safe to the kidney development of preterm infants, the macronutrients and calorie intakes should be increased in the first and second week after birth; the fat intakes should be increased in fourth week after birth.
Neonatal iron status at birth is independently regulated by fetally derived hepcidin in neonates born to women carrying multiple fetuses
Authors: Ru Yuan , Pressman Eva K , Guillet Ronnie , Copper Elizabeth M , Katzman Philip J , O'Brien Kimberly O
Published: November 2023

Hepcidin is an important regulatory hormone for iron (Fe) homeostasis but little is known on determinants of neonatal hepcidin. To examine the relative importance of maternal versus neonatal hepcidin on neonatal Fe status, Fe status indicators including hemoglobin (Hb), soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), erythropoietin (EPO), and hepcidin were measured in 63 women carrying multiple fetuses and in their 142 neonates at delivery. The majority of neonates (65%) were born prematurely and had low birth weight (69%). In these pregnancies, 30 neonates were monochorionic, 82 were dichorionic, and 32 were trichorionic. Hepcidin concentrations increased by nearly 3‐fold in neonates across the range of 30–38 weeks of gestation (r2=0.54, p=0.01, n=142). Maternal hepcidin at delivery was positively associated with neonatal hepcidin at birth (r2=0.45, p=0.007, n=118), but maternal hepcidin was not significantly associated with neonatal Hb and EPO. There is a negative but not significant trend between maternal hepcidin and neonatal sTfR (n=118, P=0.06). In contrast, neonatal hepcidin was significantly negatively associated with neonatal Hb (r2=0.76 p<0.0001, n=124), sTfR (r2=0.80, p<0.0001, n=142), and EPO (r2=0.72 p=0.0003, n=137). Significant variability in hepcidin was evident between siblings. As expected, monochorionic neonates had significantly lower intrauterine variability than di/trichorionic neonates in sTfR (p=0.001, n=136) and EPO (p=0.007, n=129). The intrauterine variability of neonatal hepcidin was a significant positive determinant of the intrauterine variability in Hb (r2=0.22, p=0.0004, n=49), sTfR (r2=0.08, p=0.02, n=60), and EPO (r2=0.17, p=0.0007, n=58). These findings suggest that neonates regulate their Fe status independently from their mothers and in relation to their own Fe demands given the variability that was evident between siblings.

Support or Funding Information

Grant Funding Source: The Gerber Foundation
Effect of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Blood Pressure in Hispanics with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zarini Gustavo G. , Exebio Joel , Vaccaro Joan A. , McLean Michael , Ajabshir Sahar , Huffman Fatma G.
Published: November 2023

Significance

Serum vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency and elevated blood pressure are important health concerns especially among Hispanics. Additionally, Hispanics are at high risk for type 2 diabetes. Available evidence from observational studies indicated that low 25‐hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels are associated with elevated blood pressure. However, studies have found contradictory relationship between vitamin D3 supplementation and blood pressure.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation at 6000 IU/day on systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in Hispanics with type 2 diabetes and hypovitaminosis D [25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL].

Methods

Participants (n=22) were recruited from two clinics in Miami‐Dade County, FL, US (Borinquen Health Care Center and Clinical Care Medical Center). Twenty milliliters of venous blood (at least 8 hours fasting) was collected from each participant by a certified phlebotomist using standard laboratory methods. Serum 25(OH)D levels were determined using a commercial ELISA kit from Immunodiagnostic Systems Limited (Scottsdale, AZ, USA). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured twice in a sitting position using a calibrated arm‐cuff automatic blood pressure monitor. Average of the two readings was used for analysis. Participants were given 6000 IU/day of vitamin D3 supplementation for 6 months. All data analyses were conducted on an “intent to treat” basis. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and one‐way repeated‐measures ANOVA.

Results

Adjusted repeated measures ANOVA determined that mean systolic blood pressure levels differed statistically significantly between time points (F(1.611) = 4.883), p<0.015). Post‐hoc test using Bonferroni correction indicated that vitamin D3 supplementation at 6000 IU/day significantly reduced mean systolic blood pressure levels from baseline (146.6 ± 18.4) to 3 months (137.0 ± 16.2, p=0.026) and statistically greater reduction was observed at 6 months (133.6 ± 17.8, p=0.014). Diastolic blood pressure levels did not change significantly over time.

Conclusion

Vitamin D3 supplementation at 6000 IU/day significantly decreased systolic blood pressure levels in Hispanics with type 2 diabetes. Improving blood pressure levels with supplementation of vitamin D3 may prevent/delay future complications associated with cardiovascular disease and disease progression of type 2 diabetes. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these results in this and other racial/ethnic groups.
Exploring the Food Choices of Muslims Arab Immigrants in Canada
Authors: Aljaroudi Rana
Published: November 2023

This qualitative study investigates how immigration affects the food choices of Muslim Arab immigrants who currently reside in two communities in Southern Ontario, Canada. When immigrants move to a new country they tend to adjust in a variety of ways, this includes a change in their food choices. This process of cultural adjustment, or acculturation, occurs with various immigrant groups, including Arab Muslim immigrants to Canada. This group was selected as the focus for this research due to the growing Arab Muslim immigrant population in Canada and the lack of previous research among this population.

This study utilizes a phenomenological methodology to understand participant's lived experiences, as well as their perceptions and feelings around food choice. This study also aims to determine whether Arab Muslims have maintained their traditional diet or are incorporating more Western foods into their diet. In order to have a rich source of data, the study recruits Arab Muslims mothers who have resided in Canada for five years or more. Data is collected by semi‐structured individual interviews with the participants conducted in Arabic. Interview questions focus on the participant's experience of moving to Canada in terms of food availability, meal preparation and food choices. Data are translated into English and coded utilizing the NVivo10 Qualitative Analysis Software environment. In addition, the participants are administered an adapted version of The Male Arab‐American Acculturation Scale (MAAS) to all study participants, which uses a descriptive manner to discuss participants' attitudes towards acculturation.

Results from initial qualitative interviews indicate that Arab immigrants to Canada strive to maintain their traditional eating practices and food choices. Participants report that traditional foods were widely available in their communities at large supermarkets, but they expressed concerns over the costs of food and the general lack of flavour and freshness of food in Canada. They felt that their traditional foods maintained a link to their cultural identity and that, as mothers, they had an important role to play in feeding their families while maintaining their cultural background. The participants reported generally avoiding fast food. Most did not take their families to eat out at restaurants except rarely and on special occasions due to financial constraints. Participants expressed a variety of attitudes towards Western food and to religious observances around food. While some were open minded about trying Western foods, some expressed resistance to trying new things. There were varying levels of adhering to religious dietary observances; some participants stressed the importance of strict religious observances around food, others stressed that “good Muslims should be flexible”.

Support or Funding Information

Saudi Culture Bureau, Canada
The Needs of Nutrition and Physical Activity Education for Staff of Michigan Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Centers
Authors: Knox Amanda R. , Lim Yuen Mei , Song SuJin , Moorhead‐Hill Kaitlyn , Farabi Nabila , Song Won O.
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Staff in child care settings are expected to influence child development through their knowledge and practices of nutrition and physical activity. Limited research has been conducted on training practices and needs of staff in Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) programs. The aim of this mixed methods study was to identify needs of nutrition and physical activity education to improve the competency and well‐being of staff in Michigan MSHS programs by assessing their desired contents for education and facilitators and barriers of healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors.

Methods

Five focus groups were conducted at five Michigan MSHS centers from July to September 2016. A total of 28 staff including teachers (n=12), assistant teachers (n=3), center aides or assistants (n=7), specialists (n=3), special service assistants (n=2), and a secretary (n=1) were recruited using convenience sampling. Two trained researchers asked participants about their desired contents for education and facilitators and barriers for practicing healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors. Focus group responses were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. An online survey questionnaire was administered to a total of 197 staff in the same positions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the survey data.

Results

A majority of staff were interested in nutrition and physical activity education and receiving education weekly or monthly. Desired contents identified for nutrition and physical activity education included cooking and meal preparation, growing food, preserving food, improving child health, basic nutrition knowledge, and types of physical activity. Facilitators of healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors included incentives, support systems, and motivation for personal health improvement. Barriers of healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors included time constraints, financial constraints, demanding work environment, incognizance of education programs, family responsibilities, no motivation to be healthy, and limited access to resources.

Conclusions

A large proportion of staff expressed interest in nutrition and physical activity education. Unique needs and factors that prevent and encourage healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors were identified among staff of MSHS centers. Findings from this study can be used to develop effective training programs to improve their competency and better meet their needs. Staff with a thorough understanding of nutrition and physical activity knowledge may help them improve their well‐being and serve as better role models and educators to children in child care settings.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by Michigan Telamon Corporation, Michigan State University Extension, and Michigan State University College Assistance Migrant Program.
Effect of Acid Concentration on the Yield of Ethanol from Cassava Waste Using Baker's Yeast
Authors: Oyelola Olukemi Taiwo , Ajiboshin Isaac Olugbemi , Banjoko Immaculata Oyeyemi
Published: November 2023

Production of ethanol from cassava waste involves some processes such as hydrolysis, fermentation and distillation. Hydrolysis which is either acid or enzymatic is the major process that converts starch to reducing sugar that determines the yield. The common acid hydrolysis was used in this investigation. Cassava waste samples were hydrolysed with sulphuric acid of different concentrations ranging from 0.2M to 2M at 60°C for 40 minutes. Reducing sugar from hydrolysis process was fermented with baker's yeast in separate containers for 72 hours. The pH of fermented broths and percentage yield of ethanol were determined every 12 hours and at the end of 72 hours respectively. The pH of the fermented broths decreased from 5.5 to 4.7 for all levels of concentration. The percentage yield for concentrations of 0.2M, 0.3M, 0.4M, 1.0M and 2.0M are 68.02%, 59.43%, 54.09, 61.70% and 59.83% respectively. These results show that concentration has effect on the yield of ethanol with 0.2M having highest yield of 68.02%.

Support or Funding Information

Self Funding
Factors associated with vending machine snacks choices in young adults
Authors: Rusmevichientong Pimbucha , Navajas Emma , Jaynes Jessica , Kazemi Sanam , McEligot Archana , Mitra Sinjini
Published: November 2023

Snacking is one potential factor associated with increased obesity among college students. Grab‐and‐go snacks, such as vending machine snacks are a primary snack source for college students, and are prevalent on several campuses; however, most items sold in vending machines are considered energy‐dense and high sugar. We assessed factors and reasons related to college students' snack choices. We administered a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) survey, using a Block Fractional Factorial Design, to 130 undergraduate students. With the DCE, we constructed several hypothetical snack choices, each of which featured a combination of four snack attributes, including price, convenience, taste, and healthfulness. The prices were set at “$1.25,” “$2.50,” or “$3.75.” Convenience (time to get snacks) was categorized as “1 minute,” “3 minute,” or “5 minutes or more.” Taste was described as “sufficient,” “good,” or “very good.” Healthfulness was labeled as “unhealthy,” “neutral,” or “healthy.” The data was analyzed using the multinomial logit model. The results indicated that college students choose snacks primarily based on healthfulness (Odds Ratio [OR] 6.209; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.435–7.093), followed by price (OR 0.452; CI 0.403–0.506), taste (OR 1.565; CI 1.403–1.746), and convenience (OR 0.717; CI 0.642–0.801), respectively. The findings suggest that college students do prioritize healthful/nutrient‐dense snack choices, and that changing the vending machine snack composition to more nutritious options may create a healthy food environment on the campus, and subsequently improve college students' snacking choices and behaviors and reduce weight gain at university level.

Support or Funding Information

1) “Big Data Discovery and Diversity through Research Education Advancement and Partnerships (BD3‐REAP)” Project funded by National Institutes of Health (NIH)‐R25; Grant number is 1R25MD010397‐01.2) “Understanding how nutrition/food labeling of snacks found in vending machines effects college students' purchasing decisions” Project funded by a 2016–17 Junior/Senior Intramural Research Award from California State University, Fullerton; Grant account number is 0355416.
Development of an Assessment Tool to Measure the Latino Market Nutrition Environment
Authors: Baier Jenny , Winham Donna , Palmer Shelly , Voss Carol
Published: November 2023

The Nutrition Environment Measures Survey for grocery stores (NEMS‐S) was designed to assess availability and pricing between healthy and less healthy food items available in grocery stores based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). The tool has been widely used to assess the nutrition environment, yet it does not include foods specific to Latino or other ethnic cultures. As a result, the original NEMS‐S underestimates the presence of healthy food options in Latino stores. The study purpose was to create and test a NEMS‐S adaptation that would more accurately describe the true food environment of Latino grocery stores and have high inter‐rater reliability and test‐retest validity. Drawing on literature searches, previous research in Arizona, 2010–2012 NHANES consumption frequencies for Hispanics, the 2015 DGA, and formative evaluation observations in 24 Latino grocery stores or tiendas in Iowa, we developed and validated a new instrument.

Trained researchers tested the Latino NEMS‐S and the original NEMS‐S at 35 randomly selected Latino stores across Iowa. Two different raters evaluated each store independently at time 1 (T1) with the Latino NEMS‐S. Inter‐rater reliability was assessed from these measures. Test‐retest validity was evaluated by having one of the T1 raters repeat the store assessment at time 2 (T2) within 1–2 weeks of T1. The second rater completed the original NEMS‐S at T2. On average, stores scored 42 out of 61 points on the Latino NEMS‐S, and 12 out of 54 points on the original NEMS‐S. No significant differences were found in inter‐rater reliability or test‐retest validity using paired t‐tests (p=0.37 and p=0.29, respectively). Inter‐rater agreement using Cohen's Kappa values for individual items on the instrument were high, e.g., milk (1.00), tortillas (1.00), and bananas (0.89). Our findings indicate that the Latino NEMS‐S is a valid and reliable tool to measure the nutrition environment in these culturally specific grocery stores.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported in part by the Cooperative Agreement Number, DP004807, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official view of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Department of Health and Human Services.
Effect of chebulic acid on alveolar epithelial to mesenchymal transition in response to the urban particulate matter
Authors: Lee Hee‐Ra , Pyo Min Cheol , Yang Sung‐Yong , Lee Kwang‐Won
Published: November 2023

Urban particulate matter (UPM) is a heterogenous mixture of various types of atmospheric particles. Exposure to UPM leading to adverse health effects is evaluated by using in vitro cultures of human alveolar epithelial cells. Cell viability showed a time‐ and concentration‐dependent decrease when exposed to UPM. UPM induced time‐dependent reactive oxygen species generation in the alveolar epithelial cell as measurements by 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate. NCI‐H441 cells, the human alveolar epithelial cell line, exposed UPM underwent an epithelial mesenchymal transition as evidenced by the up‐regulated expression of the mesenchymal‐specific proteins α‐smooth muscle actin and fibronectin. In addition, the potential role of chebulic acid in regulating UPM‐induced EMT was observed
Food Environmental Factors Related to Dietary Intake according to Residential Areas in Older Adults Residing in Rural Areas
Authors: Kim Kirang , Kim Seo‐Jin , Shim Jae Eun , Hwang Ji‐Yun
Published: November 2023

Background

There has been few studies to investigate associations between dietary intake and food environmental factors among older adults in rural areas in Korea.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between dietary intake and food environmental factors among older adults according to residential areas.

Methods

A face‐to‐face interview for 307 older adults residing in three different areas of Gyeonggi‐do province was performed from November to December in 2013: land area (Yangpyeong‐gun, n=151), combined area of mountain and land area (Hongcheon‐gun, n=102), and remote mountain area (Hwachon‐myeon and Nae‐myeon away from Hongcheon‐gun, n=54). Dietary intake was examined by food frequency questionnaire. Food environments were assessed by factors related to food accessibility.

Results

Mean age of subjects was 76.8±6.1 years old. Older adults without farm or home garden were less likely to intake rice and fruit than those with farm or home garden, and the results were shown in land area and combined area (OR 7.72 (95 CI: 2.85–20.92) for rice in land area; OR 2.26 (95 CI: 1.26–4.06) for rice in combined area; OR 3.38 (95 CI: 1.23–9.28) for fruits in land area; OR 1.99 (95 CI: 1.10–3.59) for fruits in combined area). Inadequate intakes of fishes and vegetables were related to food stores far from their home (OR 1.86 (95 CI: 1.01–3.41) for fishes in combined area; OR 1.91 (95 CI: 1.15–3.16) for vegetable in combined area; OR 2.90 (95 CI: 1.39–6.05) for vegetable in remote mountain area). Older adults with inconvenience for bus transport and no assistance from their family assistance had higher risk of inadequate intake of eggs (OR 3.43 (95 CI: 1.39–9.01) for inconvenience for bus transport in remote mountain area; OR 4.42 (95 CI: 1.48–13.26) for no assistance from their family assistance in remote mountain area; OR 3.05 (95 CI: 1.41–6.59) for no assistance from their family assistance in combined area).

Conclusion

Food environment factors were associated with adequate dietary intake. Therefore, interventions targeting management of food environmental conditions related to nutrient intakes should be considered, especially in rural areas.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning (no.NRF‐2016R1A2B4013798) and grant from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs..
How Diet Quality in Older Adults Relates to Meal Location, Eating with Others, and Electronic Screen Use
Authors: Korycinski Robert W , Bowles Heather R , Dodd Kevin W , Park Yikyung , Thompson Frances E , Subar Amy F
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess diet quality of eating occasions by location, whether or not meals were eaten with others, or while engaging with electronic screens (TV, computer) using the Automated Self‐Administered 24‐Hour Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24) for dietary recalls.

Methods

Men and women 50–70 years of age participating in a diet and physical activity measurement error study were asked to complete 6 ASA24 recalls over 12 months. Those completing at least one ASA24 (n= 1,021) were included. Eating occasions were sorted into categories based on meal location, presence of others, and screen use, and the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) 2010 and nutrient/food group intakes were evaluated for each category.

Results

Meals eaten at home vs. away from home had higher average HEI scores (men 39.2 vs. 35.5; women 38.8 vs. 36.1). Meals eaten with others vs. alone had HEI scores that were about 5 points higher (men 41.2 vs. 36.4; women 41.2 vs. 36.7). Eating occasions that included vs. excluded screen use had slightly higher HEI scores (men 38.3 vs. 38.1; women 39.1 vs. 37.3). Additional differences were observed when screen use was stratified by screen type (TV, computer, both). Differences in energy and nutrient intake were also detected in these contexts for specific meal types. Lunches eaten at home vs. away from home had less energy (men 573 kcal vs. 721 kcal; women 460 kcal vs. 547 kcal) and less fat (men 24.3 g vs. 32.1 g; women 19.5 g vs. 24.7 g). Dinners/suppers eaten with others vs. alone had more calories (men 997 kcal vs. 842 kcal; women 766 kcal vs. 667 kcal) and more fat (men 40.7 g vs. 35.7 g; women 32.4 g vs. 28.6 g). Similar patterns were found for other meals.

Conclusion

As expected, HEI scores for eating occasions are lower than if total days had been assessed. Among this sample of diets reported by older adults, diet quality appeared to be somewhat related to meal context as defined by location, eating with others, and screen use.
BMI Z‐Score Improves after 24 Months of Precision Ketogenic Therapy in Patients with Abnormal Baseline BMI Z‐Score
Authors: Lukosaityte Jurate , Allen Hannah J. , Lennon Dylan J. , Borum Peggy R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Precision Ketogenic Therapy (PKT) is a high fat, low carbohydrate, adequate protein diet that is traditionally used to treat children diagnosed with refractory epilepsy. Since PKT is a nutrition‐based therapy and is the child's sole source of nutrition, it is important that it meets requirements for adequate growth and development.

Objective

Evaluate change in height, weight, and BMI z‐scores for patients who received PKT for the treatment of refractory epilepsy.

Methods

Patients were referred to the University of Florida PKT Program for the treatment of refractory epilepsy between 1995 and 2014. Patients were included in analysis if they started PKT prior to 18 years of age, had height and weight available at baseline, and received PKT for a minimum of 24 months (720 days). Height, weight, and BMI were collected at baseline and at regularly scheduled clinic visits while on PKT. Height, weight, and BMI z‐scores were calculated using CDC/WHO references to evaluate nutritional status. Patients were stratified according to baseline z‐scores: z‐score≤‐1 (low), ‐1<z‐score<1 (adequate), z‐score≥1 (high). Change in z‐scores from baseline to 24 months on PKT was compared for each stratum.

Results

Seventy‐one patients received PKT for 24 months. The majority of patients had low or adequate z‐scores for height, weight, and BMI at baseline (table 1). Median BMI z‐score significantly improved from baseline to 24 months for patients who had a low or high BMI z‐score at baseline. Height z‐score significantly worsened for patients who had an adequate height z‐score at baseline, but the median z‐score (−1.11) remained above the WHO classification for childhood stunting (−2.00).

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that PKT can improve BMI z‐scores for patients who remain on therapy for 24 months. Future research should evaluate body composition and dietary intake to determine how PKT may influence changes in anthropometric growth parameters.

Support or Funding Information

Research reported in this publication was supported by the University of Florida Clinical and Translational Science Institute, which is supported in part by the NIH National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences under award number UL1TR001427. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Baseline Strata
Parameter
N (%)
BaselineMedian Z‐Score
Month 24Median Z‐Score

Low (Z‐Score≤−1)
Height
31 (44%)
−2.48
−2.74

Weight
32 (45%)
−2.20
−1.88

BMI
26 (37%)
−2.13
−0.60**

Adequate (−1<Z‐Score<1)
Height
36 (51%)
−0.33
−1.11**

Weight
29 (41%)
0.02
−0.32*

BMI
28 (39%)
0.19
0.65*

High (Z‐Score≥1)
Height
4 (5%)
1.66
−0.05

Weight
10 (14%)
1.33
0.97

BMI
17 (24%)
1.87
1.33**

P‐value<0.05

p‐value<0.001
Improvements in arterial stiffness due to bean and pea consumption are determined by metabolic state
Authors: Zahradka Peter , Perera Danielle , Wilson Angela , Wiecek Matthew , Bell Rhonda , Taylor Carla G
Published: November 2023

Background

Higher consumption of pulses (dried beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas) is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease due to declines in circulating LDL‐cholesterol levels and reduced blood pressure. These studies have focused on individuals who were healthy or had mild metabolic dysfunction. Furthermore, most studies have monitored cardiovascular risk factors and not vascular function directly.

Objective

To determine in a randomized clinical trial if metabolic disease parameters affect the response to bean and pea consumption with respect to vascular function assessed by pulse wave analysis.

Methods

Participants with mild hypercholesterolemia but not taking any cholesterol‐ or glucose‐lowering medications consumed a selection of 5 study foods containing 120 g beans or peas or rice per serving, five times per week for 6 weeks as part of their usual diet. At the Winnipeg site, vascular function was assessed non‐invasively at baseline and 6 weeks to determine arterial stiffness (augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 beats per minute). The effect of body mass index, glycemia, lipidemia and blood pressure on the vascular response to beans or peas was determined by covariate analysis.

Results

No changes in augmentation index were detected without taking metabolic parameters into account. Interestingly, arterial stiffness (lower augmentation index) was improved in persons who had consumed beans or peas, but not rice, and had levels of LDL‐cholesterol or total cholesterol above the median (3.7 mmol/L and 5.7 mmol/L, respectively) within the cohort. Lower arterial stiffness was also seen in persons consuming beans or peas and having a BMI below the median (27.5 kg/m2). Subgroup analysis also showed that insulin or triglycerides influenced augmentation index in persons consuming beans or peas, but the improvement occurred regardless of whether these values were above or below the median (53 pmol/L and 1.4 mmol/L, respectively). Metabolic factors associated with glycemia, including fasting glucose and HbA1c, were not associated with arterial stiffness.

Conclusions

This study has shown for the first time that augmentation index, a key parameter of arterial stiffness, can be influenced by several metabolic factors. Although contrary to expectations, participants with higher total and LDL‐cholesterol levels showed improvements in arterial stiffness in response to bean or pea consumption, while those with lower levels did not. In contrast, lower body mass index was associated with a reduction in arterial stiffness in persons eating beans or peas. These are the first data to indicate that the individual response of blood vessel elasticity to diet may depend upon the underlying metabolic characteristics of that individual even in the absence of overt disease.

Support or Funding Information

Alberta Innovates BioSolutions and Alberta Pulse Growers
Characterizing the Inflammatory Response to a High‐fat Meal in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Emerson Sam R , Kurti Stephanie P , Harms Craig A , Haub Mark D , Melgarejo Tonatiuh , Logan Cindy , Rosenkranz Sara K
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Inflammation is a prominent feature of many chronic diseases, with poor diet being one likely inflammatory stimulus. Specifically, a single high‐fat meal (HFM) has been shown to increase inflammation, although there is currently no consensus regarding the specific changes of many of the pro‐inflammatory markers that are frequently assessed after a HFM. A synthesis of previous research investigating postprandial inflammation, with particular attention to the specific features of the response, would inform future research and advance clinical understanding.

PURPOSE

The aim of this systematic review was to objectively describe the postprandial timing and magnitude of changes of five common inflammatory markers: interleukin (IL)‐6, C‐reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐8.

METHODS

Ten relevant databases were searched using a comprehensive search strategy, yielding 494 results, of which 47 articles met the pre‐established inclusion criteria: 1) healthy men and women age 18–60 years; 2) consuming a single HFM (≥30% fat, ≥500 kcal); and 3) assessing relevant inflammatory markers post‐meal for ≥2 hours. Study inclusion was assessed and agreed upon by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

The only marker found to consistently change (increase) in the postprandial period was IL‐6, increasing in 71% (32/45) of included studies. On average, IL‐6 was found to start at a baseline of ~1.4 pg/mL and peak at ~2.9 pg/mL approximately 6 hours post‐HFM (an average relative change of ~150%). There was a moderate but significant negative correlation (r = −0.38, p = 0.04) between percent change in IL‐6 from fasting to post‐meal with mean participant age across studies. Post‐meal IL‐6 change was not significantly correlated (p > 0.05) with percent fat in the test meal (r = −0.27), kcal in the test meal (r = 0.24), or mean participant BMI (r = −0.13). C‐reactive protein, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐8 did not change significantly in 79% (23/29), 68% (19/28), 67% (2/3), and 75% (3/4) of included studies, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the postprandial inflammatory response to a HFM should no longer include the commonly assessed markers CRP and TNF‐α (and potentially IL‐1β and IL‐8) in healthy humans younger than 60 years of age. However, future research should further investigate the role of IL‐6 in the postprandial period, as it routinely increases, even in health. We assert that the findings of this systematic review regarding markers of inflammation in the postprandial period will considerably aid in informing future research and advancing clinical knowledge.

Support or Funding Information

None
Ingestion of Megalo‐type Isomaltoglucosaccharides Ameliorates Lipopolysaccharide‐induced Acute Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Joe Ga‐Hyun , Iizuka Takahisa , Fujimoto Yoshinori , Kimura Atsuo , Hara Hiroshi , Ishizuka Satoshi
Published: November 2023

Background

Non‐digestible saccharides modulate various immune responses depending on their structures, which may contribute to maintenance of our health. Megalo‐type Isomaltoglucosaccharides (M‐IMs) are composed of 10 to 50 glucose units with α‐1,6‐glycoside linkages. M‐IMs display delayed absorption and may stay relatively long time in the gastrointestinal tract, which enables them to encounter innate immune cells. Our previous study demonstrated that M‐IMs modulated macrophage functions in terms of pro‐inflammatory cytokine productions in primary culture. It is possible that M‐IMs regulate not only innate immunity, but also adaptive immunity in vivo. To evaluate this possibility, we investigated the influence of M‐IMs on acute inflammation and antigen‐specific antibody production.

Methods

Male F344/Jcl rats (5 weeks old) were fed diets supplemented with or without M‐IMs (30 g/kg diet) for 5 weeks. Keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) was administered subcutaneously (1 mg/rat) at the second weeks. We measured KLH‐specific IgM and IgG in the serum on day 7 and 18 after the administration, respectively. At the end of the experimental period, the rats were administrated with 4 mg/kg of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce acute liver injury. At 6 hours after the LPS administration, the aorta plasma was collected to measure plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activity, aspartate transaminase (AST) activity and TNF‐α concentration. The liver was collected to analyze gene expressions associated with immune functions with PCR array and RT‐qPCR.

Results

There was no significant differences between groups in productions of serum KLH‐specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) and plasma TNF‐α. In contrast, AST and ALT activities were significantly attenuated in aorta plasma of the rats fed the diet with M‐IM although there was no change on the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in the liver. The results suggest that M‐IMs partially protect LPS‐induced liver injury.

Conclusion

The ingestion of M‐IMs is considered to modulate innate immune responses such as regulation of macrophage polarization rather than adaptive immune responses in vivo, which may be involved in amelioration or prevention of acute inflammation.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the science and technology research promotion program for agriculture, forestry, fisheries and food industry of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of the Japanese government for financial support.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) inhibits IL‐6‐induced CRP synthesis and ameliorates adiponectin expression in Hep3B cells
Authors: Madarampalli Bhanupriya , Ahmed Salahuddin
Published: November 2023

Elevated levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP) is associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis and plays a key role in inflammation, atherosclerosis, and vascular dysfunction during RA progression. Variety of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) regulate CRP synthesis in hepatocytes. In the current study, we tested the efficacy of epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a potent anti‐inflammatory compound found in green tea, on IL‐6‐induced CRP expression in human hepatoma cell line (Hep3B). IL‐6 (25 ng/ml) stimulation induced CRP expression, both at the transcriptional and translational levels in Hep3B cells. Next, we pre‐incubated Hep3B cells with EGCG (5–20 mM) for 2h followed by IL‐6 stimulation (for 30 min and 24 h) to determine the effect on IL‐6‐induced signaling pathways, CRP and adiponectin expression, respectively. Adiponectin is an adipocyte specific protein with anti‐inflammatory property and negatively associated with CRP in RA patients. Pre‐incubation with EGCG significantly reduced IL‐6‐induced CRP to adiponectin expression ratio by ~1.6 to 21.4 fold (p<0.05) in a dose‐dependent manner. Evaluation of the underlying signaling pathways identified that EGCG potentially suppressed IL‐6‐induced phosphorylation of STAT3 at Ser727 position. When compared to AG490 (an inhibitor of STAT3), we observed EGCG is more effective at reducing the phosphorylation of STAT3 at Ser727. Furthermore, blocking STAT3 phosphorylation in Hep3B, by either EGCG or AG490, significantly inhibited IL‐6‐induced CRP expression as determined by qRT‐PCR and ELISA. Altogether, our results suggest that EGCG blocks IL‐6‐induced CRP expression via STAT3 signaling pathway and stimulates adiponectin levels. Hence, EGCG could potentially suppress inflammation and atherosclerosis, which might aid in reducing cardiovascular co‐morbidity in RA.

Support or Funding Information

The study was supported by the NIH/NIAMS grant (AR‐063104).
The differential immunomodulatory activities of arginine, citrulline, and glutamine on leukocytes and splenocytes in rats with hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation
Authors: Lo Hui‐chen , Li Yu‐Xiu , Lee Chien‐Hsing
Published: November 2023

In hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (HSR), depressed cell‐mediated immune function and exacerbated innate immune response, such as neutrophil oxidative burst activity, have been reported. The use of enteral immunonutrients, such as glutamine and arginine, has been found to result in lower multiple organ failure in trauma patients. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of continuous infusion of arginine, citrulline, and glutamine on systemic and local immune response in HSR. Male SD rats underwent hemorrhagic shock (mean blood pressure ~40 mm Hg for 60 min) were resuscitated with shed blood and equal volume of lactated Ringer's (LR) solution with or without arginine, citrulline, or glutamine followed by continuously infused with LR solutions and treatment for 20 h. In HSR rats, the increased circulating neutrophil activity was significantly alleviated by arginine, citrulline, and glutamine, the decreased splenocyte numbers were reversed by arginine, and the increased macrophage percentages in the spleen were attenuated by citrulline and glutamine. In addition, arginine significantly increased plasma nitrate/nitrite and phagocytotic activity of leukocytes and significantly decreased T‐helper splenocytes; citrulline significantly increased B‐leukocytes and decreased plasma interleukin‐4 and tumor‐necrosis factor (TNF)‐α; and both citrulline and glutamine significantly decreased TNF‐α production of splenocytes and interferon‐γ production of T‐splenocytes. Moreover, glutamine significantly increased T‐helper cells and phagocytotic activity in the blood and the granulocyte percentages, phagocytotic activity, and proliferations of T cells and macrophages in the spleen. Taken together, continuous infusion of arginine, citrulline, or glutamine may have potentials to alleviate systemic oxidative burst from neutrophils and infusion of citrulline or glutamine may alleviate the splenocytic pro‐inflammatory and cell‐mediated immune responses in HSR rats. Glutamine, not arginine or citrulline may elevate the innate immune response in the spleen in HSR.

Support or Funding Information

NSC 101‐2320‐B‐030‐010
Statin Usage is Inversely Associated with Prevalence of Autoantibodies in Women, but Not Men
Authors: Andersen Catherine J. , Vance Terrence M.
Published: November 2023

Lipoprotein metabolism and function play a significant role in the regulation of leukocyte activation and immunity. Dyslipidemias have been observed in patients with autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, whereas lipid‐lowering treatments (e.g. statins) have been shown to exert beneficial anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationship between serum lipids, statin use, and the prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) – the most common form of autoantibodies – in U.S. men and women (> 20 years old; n = 1,526) in NHANES 1999–2004. Within this subsample, a slightly greater proportion of women were positive for ANA as compared to men (women: 17.4% vs. men: 11.7%), whereas statin usage was more prevalent in men (women: 8.6% vs. men: 11.7%). From logistic regression, we found that men with elevated serum triglycerides (150 to < 200 mg/dL) were significantly less likely to be ANA positive vs. ANA negative (OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.11–0.92) after adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, education, serum cotinine, BMI, waist‐circumference, statin use, and survey cycle. Conversely, we did not observe significant associations between the odds of being ANA positive and serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, or HDL‐cholesterol in either men or women. Interestingly, we found that women who take statins have significantly lower odds of being ANA positive (OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.09–0.76), whereas no significant associations between statin use and ANA prevalence was observed in men. These findings suggest that the immunomodulatory properties of statins within the context of autoimmunity may differentially affect men and women.

Support or Funding Information

Fairfield University College of Arts and Sciences and SUNY College at Plattsburgh School of Education, Health and Human Services
Glutamine Modulates Cytokines Gene Expression in a Dose and Time Dependent Manner
Authors: de Oliveira Dalila Cunha , Horwitz Bruce Harold , Fock Ricardo Ambrósio
Published: November 2023

All mammalian cells require nutrients, particularly amino acids, to survive, function properly, grow and proliferate. Hence, amino acid availability through constant supply is critical. Macrophages play key roles in inflammatory responses, and have high utilization rate of the amino acid glutamine (GLN). GLN is a conditionally essential amino acid and an important subtract for energy and nitrogen supply, and is an important precursor for nitrogenous bases. Further, it has been demonstrated that glutamine metabolism in macrophages influence cytokines synthesis, and the production of these relevant inflammatory mediators are dependent on the extracellular concentration of GLN. Previous data from our group and the literature suggests that supplementation with high glutamine concentration exerts inhibitory effects on cells of the innate immune system, decreasing the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and increasing IL‐10 production. Thus, given the immunomodulatory effects of GLN, we hypothesized the glutamine supplementation may modulate cytokine production by modifying the kinetics of cytokine gene expression following inflammatory stimuli.

To examine this hypothesis, Bone Marrow Derived Macrophages (BMDM) were pre‐treated in vitro with GLN for 24 hours. Cells were then challenged with LPS and mRNA expression for IL‐10, IFN‐beta, IL6, IL12b were evaluated by qPCR from time points from 30 to 240 minutes. We demonstrated that mRNA expression for IL‐10 and IFN‐beta after 120 minutes and IL‐6 after 240 minutes was higher in cells supplemented with 10 mM of GLN. However, IL12b mRNA expression was not affected by GLN supplementation. Interestingly, it has previously been shown that LPS‐stimulated induction of IFN‐beta depends on IRF3, and here we demonstrate increased levels of IRF3 2 hours after LPS stimulation in the cells supplemented with 10 mM of GLN.

In conclusion, GLN modulates relevant cytokines gene expression in a time dependent manner. We can infer that supplementation with high concentration of glutamine up regulates IL‐10 mRNA, thus modifying the inflammatory response.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by grant #2015/02610‐6, São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP).