bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Estrogen Receptor Alpha in Protective Effects of Soy in Adipose Tissue Following Ovariectomy
Authors: McCabe Leighton Thomas , Zidon Terese M. , Welly Rebecca J. , Porter Jay W. , Winn Nathan C. , Stricklin Olivia E. , Gastecki Michelle L. , Lubahn Dennis B. , Padilla Jaume , Vieira‐Potter Victoria Jeanne
Published: November 2023

Loss of ovarian hormone production (e.g., menopause) increases adiposity, adipose tissue (AT) inflammation, and insulin resistance (IR), increasing risk for developing type II diabetes in women. Dietary soy protein extract high in phytoestrogens (~600ppm) (i.e., “SOY”) improves these metabolic parameters in ovariectomized (OVX) rodents, but the mechanisms are not known. We recently demonstrated that the adiposity‐reducing and insulin‐sensitizing effects of SOY were present in estrogen receptor (ER)β‐null, but not ERα‐null mice, leading us to hypothesize that the beneficial effects of SOY were through ERα. To test the hypothesis that SOY has protective effects in AT following OVX that are mediated through ERα, we removed ovaries from ERα‐null (i.e., ERαKO) mice, and their littermate wild‐type (WT) controls, and randomized them to receive either SOY or a control diet devoid of SOY (i.e., “CON”) creating the four groups: ERαWT/CON, ERαWT/SOY, ERαKO/CON, ERαKO/SOY (n=7–12/group; age at start, ~1 yr) which were compared for the outcomes described below using 2‐way ANOVA (i.e., main and interaction effects of genotype (G) and diet (D); p<0.05 considered significant, SPSS v.24). Prior to OVX, ERαKOs weighed more with a greater body fat % (EchoMRI), had greater AT inflammation (i.e., □CD11c and TNFα mRNA), and greater HOMA‐IR values (G, p<0.05 for all). Following OVX, there were no longer differences between KO and WT mice in body fat % or perigonadal white AT weights, and KO mice actually had smaller adipocytes than WT mice (G, p=0.044). Moreover, neither HOMA‐IR nor Adipo‐IR (a surrogate measure of AT IR) were different between genotypes following OVX. However, despite not having greater adiposity or adipocyte hypertrophy, AT from OVX/KO had lower GLUT4 protein and greater inflammatory mRNA (i.e., CD11c) compared to OVX/WT (G, p<0.03), suggesting AT metabolic dysfunction. Counter to our hypothesis, SOY was ineffective at reducing those variables in either genotype, and had no effect on AT insulin signaling proteins (e.g., GLUT4, p‐AKT) in the basal state. This may suggest that other tissues (e.g., skeletal muscle and/or liver) are responsible for the systemic metabolic protection conferred by SOY, or that its positive effects in AT are nullified in the presence of ERβ. Ongoing studies are testing these hypotheses.

Support or Funding Information

MU‐CBIS pilot grant (NCCAM/ODS/NCI #P50AT006273)
Mechanisms Mediating Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid in Hepatic Steatosis in High Fat Fed Mice and in HepG2 Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Gonzalez Samantha M , Albracht‐Schulte Kembra M , Ramalingam Latha , Kalupahana Nishan S , Moustaid‐Moussa Naima
Published: November 2023

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly associated with obesity. Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are effective triglyceride lowering and anti‐inflammatory agents. We have previously shown that EPA reversed high fat (HF) diet‐induced inflammation and hepatic steatosis, as indicated by reduced hepatic triglyceride accumulation, in B6 mice. We further investigated mechanisms mediating the effects of EPA in liver tissues from these mice, and also used HepG2 human hepatoma cells to determine direct effects of EPA in liver cells. Using real time PCR, we demonstrated that these effects of EPA are mediated by decreased hepatic fatty acid synthesis, as shown by reduced expression of the lipogenic gene fatty acid synthase (FAS), increased hepatic fatty acid oxidation, as shown by increased expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPAR‐α) and reduced carbohydrate metabolism, as shown by downregulation of glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G6PC) in HF‐EPA‐fed mice vs. HF‐fed mice. Furthermore, markers of hepatic inflammation were also decreased, as shown by reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) mRNA in HF‐EPA‐fed mice vs HF‐fed mice. These findings were further validated in time‐ and dose‐dependent experiments in HepG2 cells treated with 50 μM EPA for 24 hours vs vehicle control on both lipid metabolism and inflammation. Moreover, EPA also reduced lipogenesis in HepG2 cells pretreated with palmitic (PA) and/or oleic acid (OA) on lipogenic gene expression. Detailed mechanistic studies are ongoing to further determine the hepatic metabolic and signaling pathways targeted by EPA. These findings will provide important insight into beneficial effects of omega‐3 fatty acids in NAFLD and may provide new therapeutic targets in fatty liver‐related diseases.
Bitter Receptors Control Glucose Absorption in the Gut by Modifying the G‐protein Coupled Receptor Signaling Cascade
Authors: Jackson Kimberly M Palatini , Rathinasabapathy Thirumurugan , Bonney Sierra , Esposito Debora , Komarnytsky Slavko
Published: November 2023

Taste perception is an important aspect of food intake and may also influence carbohydrate absorption during digestion due to the localization of taste receptors throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Whereas bitterness has long been assumed an evolutionary signal for toxicity, current research suggests that activation of bitter Type 2 Receptors (T2Rs) influences glucose absorption and utilization in human and animal models. No mechanism has yet explained these effects, therefore this project investigated key points in G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, downstream of T2Rs. In mouse intestinal STC‐1 cells, bitter compounds modulated the GPCR signaling cascade, downstream hormonal signals of carbohydrate consumption, and cell membrane expression of various bitter and glucose receptors. In C57Bl/6J mice, concurrent administration of bitter compounds and glucose load resulted in decreased absorption of glucose in the GI tract, with a subsequent rise in GLP‐1 and CCK levels. Together, these data suggest that bitter receptor stimulation results in transient delayed absorption and increased insulinotropic signaling for rapid utilization of blood glucose. If confirmed in humans, these findings could emphasize the health benefits of bitter phytochemicals in the diet and explain how these compounds are able to improve postprandial glucose levels.
Cornus officinalis Polyphenols Reduce Senescence of Vascular Cells by Modulating the Antioxidant Response
Authors: Salazar Gloria , Morgan Hannah , Feresin Rafaela G , Klarich Dawn Kylee S
Published: November 2023

Physiological changes observed during aging, like accumulation of senescent cells, are strongly associated with the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Senescent cells secrete reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammatory molecules and extracellular matrix components causing inflammation and oxidative stress that accelerate tissue dysfunction during aging. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the cornus officinalis (CO) berry, used in Traditional Chinese Medicine can protect vascular cells from cellular senescence and the molecular mechanism involved. We used vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) treated with angiotensin II (Ang II), a strong stimulator of oxidative stress and senescence, as a model. VSMCs were treated with and without Ang II and CO polyphenol extract for measurements of ROS levels (cytosol and mitochondria), senescence, and expression of antioxidant enzymes as well as NADPH oxidases (Nox). We found that 50–100 microg/ml CO polyphenol extract strongly downregulated the increase in ROS levels and senescence induced by Ang II. This effect was associated with the upregulation of the antioxidant enzymes SOD1, SOD2 and catalase and the downregulation of Nox1. Further, CO polyphenol extract reduced mitochondrial ROS, suggesting that polyphenol compounds in this berry may target the two major sources of ROS, Nox and mitochondria, to reduce senescence of VSMCs. In conclusion, our data suggest that CO polyphenols may slowdown the progression of vascular aging and the incidence of CVD.

Support or Funding Information

American Heart Association (14GRNT20180028) and the Florida State University Council on Research and Creativity (COFRS)
The Effect of Daily Soy Isoflavone Supplementation for One Year on Endogenous Steroid Metabolism in Healthy Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Wang Li , Gaikwad Nilesh W. , Steinberg Francene M.
Published: November 2023

Isoflavones are soy phytoestrogens that have been shown to exert hormonal effects and suggested to be anticarcinogenic. Few studies have investigated long‐term soy isoflavone supplementation on endogenous estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women. A random subset of samples was selected from the original randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled 2‐year trial of daily supplementation with 80 or 120 mg hypocotyl isoflavones in healthy postmenopausal women (OPUS trial). Thirty‐eight women (age 41–61y, 95% Caucasian, 0 mg/d placebo group: n=12; 80 mg/d group: n=13, 120 mg/d group: n=12). Each isoflavone tablet had an average content of 34.10 mg aglycone equivalent of total isoflavones (daizein: 22.01 mg, glycitein, 13.54 mg; genistein: 5.00 mg). Serum and urine samples from baseline and after 1year, were analyzed for serum isoflavone metabolites by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) – mass spectrometry (MS) and urine steroid metabolites by an ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)‐tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method. Serum concentrations of daidzein, dihydrodaidzein, and O‐desmethylangolensin (O‐DMA) were significantly increased from baseline after 1 year supplementation of both 80 mg and 120 mg isoflavones (p<0.04 for all). The increase of O‐DMA also had a significant dose‐response effect in the 120 mg/d group compared to 80 mg/d group (p<0.05), which validated the study compliance. 28% participants in the supplementation groups were equol producers. Urine concentrations of estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) were significantly increased (p=0.05 and p=0.02) by 120mg isoflavone supplementation compared to baseline. The change of E2 in the 120mg group was significantly correlated with the change of serum dihydrodaidzein (r=0.69, p=0.01). The concentrations of other endogenous steroids, including estrogen metabolites and the ratio of 2‐OH E1/16α‐OH E1 were not changed in both 80 mg/d and 120 mg/d groups. In conclusion, 1‐year daily supplementation of 120 mg isoflavones increased urine E1 and E2 concentrations, but did not affect the appearance of potential carcinogenic or anticarcinogenic estrogen metabolites. Our findings suggest daily soy hypocotyl isoflavone supplementation for one year has minimal effect on endogenous steroid metabolism in healthy postmenopausal women.

Support or Funding Information

Funding from UC Davis Department of Nutrition unrestricted research funds (Steinberg)
Hypoglycaemic and Hypolipidemic Effect of Standardized Small Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum, Panicum miliare, Setaria italica) Incorporated Cookies fed rats
Authors: Packiyam Karuppasamy , Durairaj Malathi , Nachimuthu Varadharaju
Published: November 2023

Minor millets are small grained cereals and are the staple food of millions inhabitating the arid and semiarid tropics of ancient world. But there was an lack of consumption of millets in modern diet. Minor millets are so important because of its uniquely high content of nutrients and fibre. Our aim is to increase the consumption of millet and make it beneficial. The aim of this study was to develope millet composite cookies feeding with wistar rats and study the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect for the period of 28 days feeding trial. Rats were grouped into G1‐Normal, G2‐Diabetic control, G3‐Refined wheat cookies, G4‐Kodo millet cookies, G5‐Little millet cookies, G6‐Foxtail millet cookies, G7‐Refined wheat cookies with fructose, G8‐Kodo millet cookies with fructose, G9‐Little millet cookies with fructose and G10‐Foxtail millet cookies with fructose. The results observed that initial blood glucose level of control group (G3–G6) ranged between 90.1 ± 4.1 (G6) to 91.9 ± 3.7(G3), whereas the diabetic group ranged from 154.2 ± 3.5 (G10) to 172.1 ± 4.3 (G7) mg/dl. Among the perse control group (G3–G6) decreased the blood glucose level in rats fed composite cookies as compared to rats fed refined wheat cookies. The haemoglobin (Hb) content of normal (G1) and diabetic control (G2) group was 12.2± 1.2g and 6.1± 0.6g/dl respectively. Similarly, Hb content of perse control group ranged from 11.5± 1.0(G4) to 12± 1.2 (G5) and diabetic treatment control group was 9.3± 0.8(G10) to 10± 0.9(G9) g/dL. The total cholesterol of G1 was 85.8 ± 2.4mg/dL while that of G2 was 236.9 ± 6.3mg/dL. The total cholesterol level of control groups G3, G4, G5 and G6 was 82.8 ± 2.6, 75.7 ± 2.5, 79.7 ± 2.5 and 77.4 ± 2.7 respectively and that of diabetic treatment groups G7, G8, G9 and G10 were 92.4 ± 2.9, 81.7 ± 2.4, 83.2 ± 2.2 and 82.7 ± 2.5mg/dL in blood respectively. This study clearly indicated that rats given composite cookies and kodo millet cookies showed hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect. It also improved plasma insulin level, HDL cholesterol and Hb content as compared to control group and rats given refined wheat cookies. This minor millet cookies also takes place at a slow pace and hence, glucose is released slowly into the blood.

Support or Funding Information
Polyphenol Antioxidants Bind Irreversibly to Protein Under Oxidative Conditions
Authors: Sun Xiaowei , Engstrom Marica T. , Salminen Juha‐Pekka , Hagerman Ann E.
Published: November 2023

Consumption of food and forage plants containing polyphenols with high antioxidant potential may have positive health benefits. In addition, many high molecular weight polyphenols (tannins) characteristically interact strongly with protein, forming complexes that affect perceived taste, nutritional status and health of the consumer. Under oxidative stress, tannins form reactive intermediates that may go on to form very stable complexes with proteins. Polyphenols that are tightly bound to protein may represent a pool of nutrient phytochemicals with fates and effects very different from those of polyphenols that are not protein‐bound throughout digestion. In the present study, the interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA), and each of seven hydrolyzable tannins or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) was examined. The objective was to define the role of tannin oxidation in the formation of highly stabilized tannin‐protein complexes, to determine how the reaction depended on the pH conditions, and to characterize the end products of the reaction. We measured tannin oxidation as oxidative browning or as degradation monitored by HPLC. Gel electrophoresis and MALDI‐TOF‐MS were used to assess the formation of tannin‐protein complexes. Proteomic tools were used to identify modified amino acid residues. The results showed that tannin oxidizability was directly correlated with the tendency of the tannins to form highly stabilized complexes with BSA at increased pH (7.6). However, at slightly lower pH (6.7), other tannin features, such as the size and flexibility of the tannin, appeared to dictate the formation of highly stabilized tannin‐protein complexes. Among all the tannins examined in the study, the green tea polyphenol EGCg formed the most stable complexes with BSA. More than one EGCg molecule could be bound per BSA depending on the ratio of the reactants. The complex was very stable and EGCg could not be released by guanidine HCl, SDS, DTT, low pH, or heating. Mass spectral analysis of hydrolysis products of the complex are being used to verify covalent binding of EGCg to BSA, and to further characterize its binding site.

Support or Funding Information

This work was partially supported by NIDDK R15K069285 (to A.E.H.) and by the Academy of Finland (Grant no. 258992 to J.‐P.S.).
Effects of Ginkgo biloba Intake on Markers of Liver Function in a Large Representative Sample of the U.S. Population
Authors: Agarwal Sanjiv , Lieberman Harris R , Fulgoni Victor L
Published: November 2023

Ginkgo biloba is a dietary supplement used extensively for various purported therapeutic benefits. However, a series of studies reported ginkgo increased risk of liver cancer in laboratory animals. Therefore, the association between ginkgo consumption and liver function was examined using a very large comprehensive epidemiologic database of the U.S. population, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES; 2001–2012; N = 29,684). Ginkgo intake of adults was assessed as were multiple clinical markers of impaired liver function: alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and bilirubin. Approximately 2.51% of NHANES 2001–2012 adult participants were ginkgo consumers (N = 616) and their mean intake of ginkgo was 65.1±4.4 mg/day. When levels of markers of liver function (activities of ALP, ALT, AST, GGT and LDH, and bilirubin level) in ginkgo consumers were compared to non‐consumers, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.01). In addition, no significant differences (P > 0.01) in liver enzymes and bilirubin levels between consumers and non‐consumers were observed when the data were stratified by sex. Activities of liver enzymes and bilirubin levels for high ginkgo (above median intake) consumers and low ginkgo (below median intake) consumers did not differ from non‐consumers in male and female adults, as well as when the sexes were combined (P > 0.01). No significant trends (P > 0.01) were noted for ALP, ALT, AST, GGT or LDH activities or bilirubin levels across non‐consumers, low ginkgo consumers and high ginkgo consumers. These data indicate moderate ginkgo intake typical of US consumers does not alter liver function. Biomarkers from NHANES may be useful to examine adverse effects of supplements for which insufficient human adverse event and toxicity data are available.

Views expressed here are those of the authors and do not reflect official policy of the US Army, Department of Defense, or US Government.

Support or Funding Information

Support: DoD/MRMC
Snacking Trends in US Adults Over a 35 Year Period from 1977–2012
Authors: Dunford Elizabeth , Popkin Barry
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Previous studies have indicated that snacking is contributing to increased calories in the American diet, and that the energy density of snacks has increased in recent decades. We examined trends in the energy density and food sources of snacks for US adults over 35 years from 1977–2012, and whether these trends differ across sociodemographic groups.

Methods

We used data from eight nationally representative cross‐sectional surveys of food intake in US adults aged ≥19 years between 1977 and 2012 (n=74,291).

Results

For all US adults there was a significant increase in per capita energy intake from snacks from 1977 to 2012 (P<0.01). In all sociodemographic groups there was a decrease in kcal/day from snacking observed from 2003–06 to 2009–12 except for Hispanics which showed a slight increase. Non‐Hispanic blacks had the highest snacking energy intake from sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) in each year, with a peak intake in 2003–06 of 76 kcal per capita per day. Intake of desserts and sweets increased in all groups between 1977 and 2012, with non‐Hispanic blacks having the highest intake in 2009–12. No significant differences were found between income or education groups.

Conclusion

Snacking trends appear to be changing in recent years, and in most cases show total energy intake from snacking decreasing, mainly from reductions in beverage consumption. However, our finding that non‐Hispanic blacks are consuming a higher proportion of SSBs than other groups, and showing the largest increase in energy intake deriving from snacks overall over the past 35 years is concerning.

Support or Funding Information

Funding for this study comes from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (Grants 67506, 68793,70017, 71837), NIH (R01DK098072; DK56350) and the CPC (P2C HD050924). E Dunford is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia Early Career Fellowship.
American Adults Meeting the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Added Sugars Recommendation: WWEIA, NHANES 2011–12
Authors: Bowman Shanthy A
Published: November 2023

Added sugars are defined as caloric sweeteners that are added to foods during food processing, food preparation, or at the table. All types of sugars and syrups, honey and molasses are examples of added sugars. The 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend that Americans limit their added sugars intake to no more than 10 percent of their daily total energy intake. The research objective was to estimate the percentage of adults, ages 20 years and over, meeting the added sugars guideline, by demographic groups. What We Eat in America, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–12, day 1 dietary data and the Food Patterns Equivalents Database 2011–12 were used for the study. Survey design effects and weights were used and the analysis was conducted using SAS callable SUDAAN software. There were 4800 adults in the study. About 42 percent of males as well as females met the added sugars recommendation. However, only 37 percent of younger adults ages 20–49 years met the guideline compared with 48 percent of adults 50 years and over who met the guideline. Among the race‐ethnic groups, 32 percent of non‐Hispanic black, 43 percent of non‐Hispanic white, 62 percent of Asian, and 41 percent of Hispanic adults met the added sugars guideline. About 38 percent of adults living in household income under 131 percent of poverty, 41 percent living in households with income of 131–350 percent of poverty, and 47 percent living in households with income above 350 percent of poverty met the added sugars guideline. The mean intake of added sugars was 7 teaspoons equivalents or 29.4 grams for adults who met the guideline and 26.4 teaspoon equivalents or about 111 grams for adults whose added sugars intake exceeded the maximum allowance of 10 percent of total energy intake. The study showed that a high percentage (42 percent) of adults consumed no more than 10 percent of their total energy from added sugars. However, mean added sugar intake was quite high for those adults who did not meet the guideline. Adults 20–49 years of age, non‐Hispanic black adults, and adults living in low income households (under 131 percent of poverty) are more likely to have a high added sugars intake and may need dietary intervention to reduce their added sugars intake.

Support or Funding Information

USDA, Agricultural Research Servoce
Exploring Diabetes Care‐Related Outcomes in Arkansas Healthcare Systems for Young Old (Ages 65–74) and Old (Ages 75–84) Age Groups
Authors: Bauerlein Danielle , Phelps Josh , Crook Tina , Hakkak Reza
Published: November 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health issue around the world, and is reaching epidemic proportions within the state of Arkansas. Because older adults (defined as > age 65) tend to be the least studied age population in diabetes care, the objective of this study was to compare diabetes care‐related outcomes in older Arkansans with the quality indicators developed by the National Diabetes Quality Improvement Alliance (NDQIA) (e.g., recommended HbA1c, LDL‐cholesterol, total cholesterol, and blood pressure levels); and also to describe the percentage of older adults who met specific outcome measures defined by the NDQIA. Data were obtained on 8,148 patients from 2009–2014 and two different age groups were created with this data: young old (ages 65–74) and old (ages 75–84). The majority of older adults in this study met the NDQIA's outcome measures for HbA1c and LDL‐cholesterol levels (89% and 85%, respectively), while a slight minority of subjects met the outcome measure for blood pressure level (49.9%). Differences in median laboratory values between males and females were statistically significant for total cholesterol (TC), LDL‐cholesterol (LDL), and systolic blood pressure (SBP), z= 17.029 (TC), 8.523 (LDL), 8.459 (SBP), p<.0005. There were also statistically significant differences in median laboratory values between racial groups; TC, LDL, triglyceride (TG), microalbuminuria (MA), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and SBP [TC (X2(3)= 21.491, p<.0005); LDL (X2(3)= 23.418, p<.0005), TG (X2(3)= 41.874, p<.0005), MA (X2(3)= 12.501, p= .006), DBP (X2(3)= 108.057, p<.0005), SBP (X2(3)= 90.902, p<.0005)]. No statistically significant results were found between young old and old age groups. Our results largely indicated positive diabetes care‐related outcomes for older adults within the studied Arkansas healthcare systems; however, further research is needed within Arkansas or similar states to explain the existence of disparities in diabetes care and control, including exploring to what extent poverty, education, insurance status, access to healthcare, medication compliance, and practitioner‐developed treatment plans affect outcomes.
High protein intake along with paternal part‐time employment is associated with higher body fat mass among girls from South China
Authors: Luo Jiao , Yang Mingzhe , Xue Hongmei , Pan Jay , Libuda Lars , Muckelbauer Rebecca , Yang Min , Cheng Guo
Published: November 2023

Objective

Protein intake has been suggested to be associated with body composition among Western children. Our aim was to determine whether protein intake is associated with body composition among Chinese children and to investigate whether parental socioeconomic status modifies these associations.

Methods

Daily protein intake of 1704 children (47% girls) aged 7–12 years was obtained by 3‐d 24h dietary recalls. Skin‐fold thickness, body height and weight were measured to calculate percent body fat (%BF), fat mass index (FMI) and fat‐free mass index (FFMI). Parental characteristics were collected by questionnaires.

Results

Among girls, protein intake was positively associated with %BF and FMI (estimate (SE) for %BF: 0.007 (0.003), p=0.04; for FMI: 0.092 (0.002), p=0.03), adjusted for pubertal stage, breast‐feeding, maternal overweight, carbohydrate intake, energy intake and physical activity level. Furthermore, there was interaction between paternal occupation and the relations of dietary protein with %BF and FMI (pfor interaction ≤ 0.04). None of associations between protein intake and %BF, FMI or FFMI was found among boys.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that school aged girls but not boys living in South China with higher dietary protein intake might have higher body fat mass, which could be modified by paternal occupation.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by a research grant from the New Century Excellent Talents in University Program (NCET‐12–0377), a research grant from the National 1000 Young Talents Program, and Sichuan Outstanding Young Scholars Foundation (2014JQ0005).
What Children Eat and Drink in America: Changes between 2003–2004 and 2013–2014
Authors: Rhodes Donna G , Clemens John C , Moshfegh Alanna J
Published: November 2023

Public health campaigns promoting healthy eating for children became widespread during the last 10 years; however, data are limited on any potential changes in food and beverage intake among U.S. children. This research examines differences in food and beverage intake during 2003–2004 and 2013–2014 using nationally representative data from individuals aged 2–19 years participating in What We Eat in America (WWEIA), National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004 (n=3824) and 2013–2014 (n=3019). Data are reported for all children or by the following age groups: 2–5yr, 6–11yr and 12–19yr. Dietary intake data, obtained from an in‐person 24‐hour recall, were collected using the interviewer‐administered 5‐step USDA Automated Multiple‐Pass Method. The WWEIA Food Categories were used to estimate the percentage of children who consumed groups of foods/beverages at least once during the intake day. Overall, the mean percentage ±SE of children consuming sweetened beverages declined from 76.0±1.6% in 2003–2004 to 55.7±1.1% in 2013–2014. The largest decline was noted for soft drinks. In 2003–2004, soft drinks were consumed by 34% (2–5yr), 58% (6–11yr) and 65% (12–19yr); in 2013–2014, percentages decreased to 16%, 28% and 39%, respectively. In 2003–2004, the percentage of children who consumed milk, as a beverage or with cereal, was 61.2±1.5%; in 2013–2014, the percentage decreased to 55.3± 1.5%. Declines were noted among all 3 age groups. Although the overall percentage of children drinking 100% juice decreased with time, the opposite was noted for fruit intake. In 2003–2004, fruits were consumed by 51% (2–5yr), 41% (6–11yr) and 29% (12–19yr); in 2013–2014, percentages increased to 64%, 53% and 42%, respectively. Apples were the most frequently consumed fruit during both time periods; the percentage reporting berries (primarily strawberries and blueberries) more than doubled between 2003–2004 (3.6%) and 2013–2014 (9.0%). The percentage of children consuming vegetables decreased slightly driven by a decline in consumption of potatoes. Although fried potatoes were the most frequently reported vegetable during both time periods, a higher percentage of children consumed fried potatoes in 2003–2004 (25%) compared to 2013–2014 (18%). During both time periods, snack foods (chips and crackers) and sweets (cookies, candy, ice cream) remained popular choices among children. On the day consumed, snack and sweet items contributed 19.9% and 21.2% of total daily energy in 2003–2004 and 2013–2014, respectively. This research highlighted some positive changes in food and beverage choices among U.S. children compared to 10 years ago – an increase in percentage eating fruit and a decrease in percentage drinking sweetened beverages.

Support or Funding Information

ARS, USDA
Is soy isoflavones consumption associated with pubertal onset in boys?
Authors: Siapco Gina Segovia , Pribis Peter , Sabate Joan
Published: November 2023

The estrogenic properties of isoflavones may adversely affect the pubertal development of boys who consume soy. Using an adolescent male population with a wide range of soy intake, we assessed if consumption of soy isoflavones is associated with age at onset of puberty using pubic (pubarche) and facial hairs as pubertal markers. Boys ages 12–18y (n=248) who attended schools near Adventist universities in southern California and Michigan self‐reported their age at onset of pubertal markers. Intake of soy isoflavones was assessed with a validated web‐based food frequency questionnaire. Consumption levels of isoflavones (total, daidzein and genistein) were categorized as low (<3 mg/d), moderate (3–20 mg/d), and high (>20 mg/d). Descriptives, time‐to‐event analysis, and Cox proportional hazards regression that controlled for confounders were performed. Energy‐adjusted mean (SD) intakes were 22.1 (30.8) mg/d for total isoflavones, 8.9 (12.6) mg/d for daidzein, and 11.3 (15.8) mg/d for genistein. Energy‐adjusted mean (SD) intakes of total isoflavones were 0.8 (1.0) mg/d for low, 10.1 (4.6) mg/d for moderate, and 54.9 (35.4) mg/d for high consumers. Compared to low consumers (13.00 y), adjusted median age at pubarche was significantly earlier by 5 months for moderate consumers, 12.58 y (RR [95% CI]: 1.58 [1.06, 2.36]), and by 6 months for high consumers, 12.50 y (RR [95% CI]: 1.63 [1.03, 2.60]). In a similar manner, daidzein and genistein consumption were also significantly associated with age at pubarche. No significant associations were found for facial hair onset for any of the isoflavones but adjusted median age at onset of facial hair was earlier for low consumers (13.67 y) compared to moderate (14.00 y) and high (14.01 y) consumers. Age at pubarche in this population with a wide range of soy intake is within the reported age range for boys' pubarcheal age but moderate/high consumers tend to have it earlier compared to low consumers. Further studies are needed to determine if isoflavones intake during childhood/adolescence affects male pubertal development.

Support or Funding Information

LLU McClean Fund for Nutrition Research and Soy Nutrition Institute
Disparities in Breastfeeding Outcomes Between Women Undergoing Medication‐Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Abstaining Controls
Authors: Jimenez Elizabeth Yakes , Yonke Nicole , Leeman Lawrence M , Shrestha Shikhar , Cano Sandra , Garrison Laura , Williams Sonnie , Stephen Julia , Bakhireva Ludmila
Published: November 2023

Opioid use and abuse is epidemic in the United States. MAT for SUD during pregnancy reduces the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Breastfeeding can reduce the severity of neonatal abstinence syndrome, and is recommended for patients in MAT programs who are negative for HIV and not actively using illicit drugs. Breastfeeding outcomes were compared among women undergoing MAT (n=30) and abstaining controls (CON; n=28) in a prospective ENRICH birth cohort in New Mexico (NM). The MAT group was further stratified into: MAT/no prenatal alcohol use (MAT‐noA; n=17) and MAT with prenatal alcohol use (MAT‐A; n=13). Patients were recruited during pregnancy and followed up to 6 months postpartum. Data were self‐reported through prospective structured maternal interviews and verified by a review of electronic medical records, urine drug tests and ethanol biomarkers. The associations between prenatal exposures and other covariates and lactation initiation and continued lactation at 6 months postpartum were examined using Fisher's exact test and logistic regression.

All participants delivered in a Baby Friendly hospital. Overall, about two‐thirds of all participants were Hispanic, half were overweight or obese before pregnancy, one‐third had a C‐section delivery, and 12% had a preterm delivery, with no significant differences between groups. There were significant differences between MAT and CON groups, respectively, for planned pregnancy (17% vs. 61%; p=0.002); WIC utilization (97% vs. 46%; p<0.0001); Medicaid or no insurance (93% vs. 57%; p=0.002); breastfeeding initiation (77% vs. 100%; p=0.01); and breastfeeding at 6 mo (17% vs. 56%; p=0.005). In subgroup analyses, fewer MAT‐A participants (69%) initiated breastfeeding compared to MAT‐noA participants (82%); but more MAT‐A participants reported breastfeeding at 6 months (31%) than MAT‐noA participants (6%).

After adjustment for C‐section, infant prematurity, SES and perceived stress index, the difference in breastfeeding initiation between the MAT and CON groups was slightly attenuated (OR not breastfeeding = 8.01; 95% CI: 0.79, 81.21; p=0.08). At 6 mo, differences persisted between the MAT and CON groups (OR not breastfeeding = 3.97; 95% CI: 1.04, 148; p=0.04) in the same multivariable model.

In the NM general population, 85.5% of women initiate breastfeeding and 51.1% continue to 6 months (CDC Breastfeeding Report Card 2016). At a Baby Friendly hospital, there were consistent disparities in breastfeeding outcomes for women on MAT compared to controls and NM state averages, particularly at 6 mo. Additional research should be conducted to better understand these disparities and identify appropriate interventions.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by NIH R01 AA021771
Early‐Life Prebiotics Alter Exploratory Behavior, Recognition Memory, and Brain Serotonin in the Neonatal Piglet
Authors: Fleming Stephen A , Monaikul Supida , Patsavas Alexander J , Berg Brian M , Waworuntu Rosaline V , Dilger Ryan N
Published: November 2023

A prebiotic blend of polydextrose and galactooligoasaccaride (PDX‐GOS) represents a mixture of long‐ and short‐chain oligosaccharides. Emerging evidence in rodent models suggests dietary prebiotics are capable of modulating the gut microbiota and animal behavior. The present research set out to describe the effects of feeding PDX‐GOS early in life on cognition, exploratory behaviors and brain neurochemistry using a piglet model. Piglets were provided customized milk replacer containing 2 g/L each of PDX and GOS (TEST) or 0 g/L (CONT) from postnatal day (PND) 2–33. Beginning at PND 25, piglets were tested on the novel object recognition (NOR), novel location recognition, and tonic immobility tasks to measure recognition memory and response to restraint stress. At study conclusion, piglets were euthanized, and intestine and brain tissues were collected. No effects of diet were observed for lengths or weights of intestinal tissues (P > 0.119). Concentrations of volatile fatty acids (acetate, propionate, butyrate) were decreased in the ascending colon of pigs in the TEST group (P < 0.012), but unchanged in the cecum (P > 0.383). Piglets consuming the TEST diet were able to demonstrate NOR after a 48 h delay (P < 0.001), but piglets consuming the CONT diet could not (P = 0.184). Additionally, piglets consuming the TEST diet visited both the novel and sample objects more frequently (all P < 0.05), spent less time per visit exploring the sample object (P = 0.028), and exhibited greater total movement during the sample phase (P < 0.001) than those on the CONT diet. Neither group was able to complete the novel location recognition task after a delay of 24 h (all P > 0.320), and there were no effects of diet observed for outcomes in the tonic immobility task (all P > 0.537). Concentrations of serotonin were lower (P = 0.016) in the hippocampus of pigs fed the TEST diet and tended to be lower (P = 0.055) in the striatum of those same pigs. These findings suggest that early‐life consumption of PDX‐GOS results in prebiotic effects in the ascending colon, subtly alters concentrations of catecholamines in the brain and supports recognition memory. We believe this is the first account of non‐digestible prebiotic fibers displaying simultaneous effects in the gut and brain of neonatal piglets. Such findings are likely the result of interactions within the gut‐microbiome‐brain axis, signifying dietary intervention as a possible mechanism to impact both gut and brain development and function in early life.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by Mead Johnson Nutrition.
Antimicrobial Peptides in Human Milk
Authors: Filgueira Luis , Kueffer Gwendoline K , Twigger Alecia‐Jane , Walch Michael , Geddes Donna T
Published: November 2023

Background

Early human milk (HM) contains a large variety of immune components, including leucocytes, providing protection to the newborn infant. Peptides such as perforin, granulysin and granzymes, stored in lymphocytes work together to induce apoptosis of infected host cells and pathogens such as bacteria and parasites. Thus far their presence in HM cells has not been shown.

Aims

This project aims to examine the presence and localization of these immune peptides in HM cells.

Methods

Presence of perforin, granulysin and granzymes (A, B, H and M) was examined in cells isolated from samples of prepartum secretions (PS) collected during pregnancy and HM collected longitudinally (2–5 sampling occasions) from participants (n=31) during the first year postpartum. Gene expression was analyzed through RNA sequencing and qRT‐PCR. Linear modeling and principle component analysis between the genes was conducted. Additionally flow cytometry was performed to investigate the presence of the peptides at the protein level.

Results

Expression of all genes was confirmed in PS and month 1 HM samples, where variation of expression was found between women and time points. Strong correlations were found between granzyme A – perforin (r2=0.86), granzyme A – CD45 (r2=0.76), perforin – CD45 (r2=0.68) and perforin – granzyme B (r2=0.67). Principle component analysis showed a cluster of all immune peptides in addition to the biggest variation between CD45 and EPCAM. Consequently, current investigations are being undertaken to examine the co‐expression of those immune peptides in HM cells at the protein level using flow cytometry. Comparison of gene expression in a healthy and a mastitic breast from a participant showed a significant increase in CD45 and all immune peptides in the presence of mastitis.

Conclusion

Presence of perforin, granulysin and granzymes has been confirmed in HM cells. An increase in gene expression of these peptides has been confirmed in one participant suffering from mastitis. Further investigations are required to elucidate the roles of these immune peptides for the infant and/or mother.
Serum concentration of appetite regulating hormones in infants according to the type of feeding. Preliminary data
Authors: Vasquez‐Garibay Edgar M , Larrosa‐Haro Alfredo , García‐Arellano Samuel , Muñoz‐Esparza Nelly , Guzmán‐Mercado Elizabeth , Muñoz‐Valle Francisco , Romero‐Velarde Enrique
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Hunger is an internal stimulus influenced by ingestion of food. There are hormones that play a role in the regulation of food intake and body composition with signaling hunger and satiety through hypothalamic receptors. One hypothesis has proposed that exclusively breastfed (EBF) infants have the ability to self‐regulate his energy intake according to his needs. Another has indicated that the appetite regulating hormone profile differs between EBF and formula fed (FF) infants. Therefore, the purpose is to present data on the serum concentration of appetite hormones in infants according to the type of feeding.

Methods

In a cohort observational study, with a non‐random sample at a concentration site, 70 infants of mothers who entered in the physiological puerperium room of the Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, who met the inclusion criteria and signed Informed consent were included. Fasting blood samples were obtained from infants in Vacutainer® tubes with anticoagulant EDTA treated with protease inhibitors aprotinin and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor. The hormones leptin, ghrelin, peptide‐YY (PYY) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) were analyzed with the ELISA method. The comparison between groups was performed with ANOVA, Post‐Hoc tests and Student's t test for independent samples or with Mann‐Whitney U. The Research and Bioethics Committee of the New Civil Hospital of Guadalajara authorized the protocol.

Results

Of the total sample at four months of age (70), 27 infants were EBF, 25 partial breastfeeding (PBF) and 18 FF. The mean serum concentration of ghrelin (932 pg/mL), leptin (2.2 ng/mL) and GLP‐1 (31.6 pM) did not show significant differences between the three groups. ANOVA showed significantly different serum concentrations of PYY among EBF infants (500 pg/mL), PBF infants (449 pg/mL) and FF infants (431 pg/mL), p=0.039. The largest difference was observed among EBF infants vs FF infants, p=0.012. GLP‐1 concentration was greater in PBF infants (40.3 pM) than FF infants (24.5 pM), p=0.055. Leptin concentration was lower in EBF infants (1.9 ng/mL) than PBF and FF infants (2.5 and 2.3 ng/mL, respectively), no significant difference.

Conclusion

These preliminary results show a differentiated character in two appetite regulating hormones (PYY and GLP‐1) according to the type of feeding in four months old infants. It is likely that with increasing sample size leptin also shows a significantly lower concentration in EBF infants.

Support or Funding Information

Project supported by the National Council of Science and Technology of Mexico (234158)
Serum concentration of appetite regulating hormones in nursing mothers according to the type of feeding. Preliminary data
Authors: Vasquez‐Garibay Edgar M , Larrosa‐Haro Alfredo , García‐Arellano Samuel , Muñoz‐Esparza Nelly , Guzmán‐Mercado Elizabeth , Muñoz‐Valle Francisco , Romero‐Velarde Enrique
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Hunger is an internal stimulus influenced by ingestion of food. It has been pointed out that breastfed infants have the ability to self‐regulate their energy intake according to their needs and that the appetite regulating hormone profile differs between exclusively breastfed fed (EBF) infants and formula fed infants (FFI). Considering the possibility that the serum concentration of the appetite regulating hormones in the mother differs according to the type of feeding offered to her child, the purpose of this report is to show preliminary results on the serum concentration of appetite hormones in mothers of infants according to the type of feeding.

Methods

In a cohort study, with a non‐random sample at a concentration site, 70 women in the immediate postpartum period at the Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, who met the inclusion criteria and signed informed consent, were included. Fasting blood samples were obtained from mothers in Vacutainer® tubes with EDTA anticoagulant treated with protease inhibitors aprotinin and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor. The hormones leptin, ghrelin, peptide‐YY (PYY) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) were analyzed with the ELISA method. The comparison between groups was performed with ANOVA, Post‐Hoc tests and Student's t test for independent samples or with Mann‐Whitney U. The Research and Bioethics Committee of the New Civil Hospital of Guadalajara authorized the protocol.

Results

The total sample of mothers (70) of four months postpartum was divided in three groups: Group 1, EBF (n=27); Group 2, partial breast fed (PBF) infants (n=25); and, group 3, FFI (n=18). The concentration of ghrelin in EBF mothers was greater (500 pg/mL), than in PBF mothers (326 pg/mL) and in FFI mothers (435 pg/mL), p=0.112. The leptin concentration was greater in PBF mothers (22 ng/mL) than in EBF mothers (9.8 ng/mL) and FFI mothers (13.2 ng/mL), p=0.081. GLP‐1 concentration was significantly lower in EBF mothers (20 pM) than in PBF and FFI mothers (33.6 and 33.4 pM), p=0.031. The concentration of PYY was significantly greater in PBF mothers (226 pg/mL) than in EBF and FFI mothers (186 and 181 pg/mL respectively), p=0.005. Leptin concentration was significantly greater in PBF than in EBF mothers, p=0.043. The concentration of GLP‐1 was significantly lower in EBF than in PBF mothers, p=0.009. The concentration of PYY was significantly lower in PBF than in EBF, p=0.035 and, that in FFI mothers, p = 0.001.

Conclusion

These preliminary results show a significantly differentiated character in the serum concentration of the studied appetite regulating hormones according to the type of feeding in mothers of four‐month old infants.

Support or Funding Information

Project supported by the National Council of Science and Technology of Mexico (234158)