bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association between Adipose Tissue N‐3 Fatty Acids and Blood Lipids
Authors: Heskey Celine , Jaceldo‐Siegl Karen , Sabate Joan , Rajaram Sujatha
Published: November 2023

Research supports the beneficial effects of n‐3 fatty acids (n‐3 FA) in preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, consensus on the effect of n‐3 FA on CVD risk factors, like dyslipidemia, is lacking. There are no recent studies that examine the relationship between adipose tissue n‐3 FA (which may reflect long term fatty acid intake), and blood lipids in adults, especially in the context of inflammation and abdominal obesity. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between adipose tissue n‐3 FA and blood lipids.

In this cross‐sectional study, secondary data analysis was done utilizing data collected from subjects (n=1011; 66% female, 42% Black; Mean age: 58 years) randomly selected from the Adventist Health Study‐2 (AHS‐2) cohort (n=96,000) to participate in a calibration sub‐study. Multivariable linear regression analysis was done to examine the association between adipose tissue n‐3 FA (continuous and/or categorical variables) and fasting triglycerides (TAG), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). Stratified analyses by waist circumference and c‐reactive protein (CRP) were also done for the association between adipose tissue n‐3 FA, and TAG and LDL‐C.

Adipose tissue α‐linolenic acid (ALA) was inversely associated with TAG (β= −0.10; p<0.05). After stratified analysis, the inverse association between ALA, and TAG remained for subjects with a normal waist circumference (β= −0.13; p<0.05). ALA was inversely associated with LDL‐C in subjects with a normal waist circumference (2nd and 3rd tertiles of ALA β= −9.27 and −9.22; p<0.05), and in subjects with elevated CRP (2nd and 3rd tertiles of ALA β= −12.63 and −14.77; p<0.05). There was a positive association between ALA and HDL‐C (3.18; p<0.05). In terms of adipose tissue eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) plus docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an inverse association with TAG in subjects with abdominal obesity (β= −0.11; p<0.05), and in subjects with CRP >3 mg/L (β= −0.25; p<0.05) was observed. Adipose tissue EPA+DHA and LDL‐C was inversely associated in subjects with a CRP>3 mg/L (3rd tertile of EPA+DHA β= −10.95; p<0.05). There no significant association between adipose tissue EPA+DHA and HDL‐C.

In conclusion, adipose tissue n‐3 fatty acids overall has favorable effects on blood lipids, but they seem to be influenced by abdominal obesity and state of inflammation which needs to be further explored.

Support or Funding Information

National Institute of Health/National Cancer Institute grans (RO1CA094594, U01CA152939)
Genistein increased hepatic cholesterol uptake via a JNK mediated activation of SREBP‐2 and LDLR expression
Authors: Lee Seung‐Min , Kartawijaya Medicia , Kim Yunhye
Published: November 2023

Genistein has been implicated for its anti‐atherogenic effects. To understand the anti‐atherogenic mechanism of action genistein was investigated its impact on hepatic cholesterol uptake, the expression of LDLR which is the receptor for LDL‐cholesterol, and related signaling pathways in human hepatoma HepG2 cells. the The addition of 40 μM genistein increased cholesterol uptake into HepG2cells. Genistein increased mRNA and protein levels of LDLR in a time‐dependent manner. The addition of cholesterol up to 5 μg/mL for 24 hours did not significantly affect the effect of genistein towards LDLR protein expression. Genistein increased the transcriptional activity of LDLR promoter containing reporter gene (pLDLR‐luc, −805 to +50). But sterol‐regulatory element (SRE) deletion mutant construct was failed to be activated by genistein. Genistein increased the nuclear fraction of SREBP‐2 and DNA binding activity of SREBP‐2 to LDLR promoter as assessed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay (CHIP). Genistein phosphorylated JNKs. JNK inhibitor (SP600126) abolished genistein‐stimulated levels of LDLR and nuclear SREBP‐2. To minimize the effects of c‐Jun, a transcription factor activated by JNK signals, a truncated LDLR luciferase construct that was contained SRE but lacked the c‐jun putative binding site was constructed. Genistein was still able to boost the transcriptional activity of the truncated LDLR construct. In conclusion, our data supports that genistein may have the anti‐atherogenic effects by increasing hepatic LDL cholesterol uptake via activating JNK signals and SREBP‐2 processing, which is followed by up‐regulation of LDLR.
Alcohol Interrupts Adipose Tissue Maturation and Attenuates Adiponectin Expression in 3T3‐F442 Pre‐Adipocytes
Authors: Shafiei Mahnoush S , Juma Shanil , Prasad Chandan , Imrhan Victorine , Vijayagopal Parakat
Published: November 2023

Alcohol (ethanol) is a widely used substance and excessive consumption has serious adverse effects. Alcohol disrupts endocrine activity of adipose tissue through synthesis and secretion of a wide variety of peptides and cytokines called adipokines. Adiponectin plays important roles in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and provides a crucial link between alcohol‐induced inflammation and metabolic complications. We hypothesized that alcohol disrupted adipogenesis resulting in decreases in adiponectin expression and up regulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. We differentiated 3T3‐F442A preadipocytes in the presence of different does of ethanol and measured adipogenesis and the expression of NF‐kB, adiponectin and several pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines. Our result shows that alcohol (i) inhibited adipogenesis in a dose‐dependent manner by suppressing intracellular triglyceride accumulation, (ii) significantly reduced adiponectin expression, (iii) increased expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐12, TNF‐α) and transcription factor NF‐kB, and (iv) decreased expression of the anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐10). Collectively, our findings demonstrate that alcohol exerts a major influence in adipose tissue maturation and inflammatory status.

Support or Funding Information

Partial support from the Human Nutrition Research Fund at Texas Woman's University
Egg Consumption May Be Associated with Improved Lipid Profiles and Blood Glucose Levels in Men and Women with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Pourafshar Shirin , Johnson Sarah A. , Navaei Negin , Akhavan Neda S. , Elam Marcus L. , Foley Elizabeth , Clark Elizabeth A. , Arjmandi Bahram H.
Published: November 2023

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of different metabolic abnormalities such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. About 34% of American adults have MetS which puts them at a greater risk for different chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes mellitus. Two of the most important underlying risk factors for MetS are poor diet and physical inactivity. Therefore, identifying foods which improve characteristics of MetS such as lipid profiles and fasting glucose levels is of importance. Eggs are nutrient‐dense foods which have been linked to a decreased risk of certain chronic diseases; however, they are often avoided by many people due to their high cholesterol content. The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate whether lipid profiles and glucose levels correspond with the amount of weekly egg consumption. For this purpose, 50 men and women aged 45 to 65 years old with MetS were included. Seven day food frequency questionnaires were used to evaluate the number of eggs consumed per week. Participants’ egg intake was divided into three groups: 0 to 3 eggs/week (group A), 3 to 5 eggs/week (group B), and > 5eggs/week (group C). Fasting blood samples were collected for measurement of lipid profile and glucose levels using the Cholestech LDX cassettes (Alere North America, LLC, FL, USA). One‐way analysis of variance was performed to assess differences in mean values between groups. Group C had 5% higher HDL‐cholesterol levels, albeit not significant (mean difference of 2.20 mg/dL for group C vs. A)and had 3%, 13% and 6% lower LDL‐cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose levels, respectively, compared with group A. The findings of this study suggest that in corporating eggs into the diet may improve lipid profiles and glucose levels in men and women with MetS. However, these findings are limited and confirmation is needed using a larger sample size.
Whole Body Leucine and α‐Ketoisocaproate Turnover and Transamination in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Walker Dillon , Thaden John , Wierzchowska Agata , Engelen Marielle , Deutz Nicolaas
Published: November 2023

We have previously demonstrated an increased whole‐body leucine (LEU) turnover in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To examine whether this relates to underlying changes in the leucine—α‐ketoisocaproate (KIC) pathway, we measured leucine turnover, the reversible transamination of leucine and α‐ketoglutarate to α‐ketoisocaproate (KIC) and glutamate, and KIC plasma concentrations. 12 normal‐weight COPD patients with moderate to severe disease (BMI: 26.9±5.4 kg/m2, FEV1: 41.7±14.4%pred.) and 14 healthy, age‐matched controls (BMI: 27.2±0.9 kg/m2) were used for this study. Whole body kinetics and interconversion of LEU and KIC were assessed by IV administration of a pulse of L‐[5,5,5‐2H3]leucine and [1–13C]KIC followed by LC/MS/MS and GC/MS/MS measurement of plasma concentrations and enrichments. Data are summarized by their means ± SEM and significance‐tested using Student's t‐test for independent samples. Leucine turnover was greater (P=0.018) for the COPD group (87.9±1.9 μmol/kg ffm/h) than for controls (65.9±7.9 μmol/kg ffm/h) whereas KIC turnover (COPD: 46.1 ± 3.1; CON: 48.9 ± 5.5 μmol/kg ffm/h) was similar (P=0.66). Leucine deamination to KIC was greater (P=0.019) with COPD (36.5±7.2 μmol/kg ffm/h) than in controls (16.3±7.2 μmol/kg ffm/h) whereas the re‐amination of KIC to leucine (COPD: 20.5±2.3, CON: 16.9±1.4 μmol/kg ffm/h) was not different (P = 0.19). Net leucine deamination was greater (P=0.02) for the COPD group (16.0±6.3 μmol/kg ffm/h) than for controls (−0.6±1.6 μmol/kg ffm/h). Concentrations of KIC were similar between groups (P = 0.47). In conclusion, stimulated leucine deamination forming KIC seems to be responsible for increased whole body turnover of leucine in COPD.
Following a Mediterranean diet for 3‐months reduces home measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) in older Australians; results from the Mediterranean diet for cognition and cardiovascular health in the elderly (MedLey) trial
Authors: Murphy Karen , Davis Courtney , Bryan Janet , Wilson Carlene , Woodman Richard , Hodgson Jonathan
Published: November 2023

The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), reported to have cardiovascular health benefits, consists of a variety of foods including fruit and vegetables, wholegrain cereals, legumes, nuts, red wine, olive oil, fish, poultry and red meat delivering valuable nutrients like fibre, vitamins, minerals, omega‐3 fatty acids and polyphenols. We sought to evaluate the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet in comparison with habitual diet on blood pressure (BP) in older Australians (mean age 71±5yrs) in the MedLey trial. Participants (were randomly allocated either a MedDiet (n=80) or continue their habitual diet (HabDiet) (n=72) for 6 months. Volunteers received some study foods and followed a prescribed MedDiet plan as advised by the study dietitian. All volunteers attended the clinic on a fortnightly basis to have their weight measured, discuss the intervention and receive study foods. Blood pressure was measured at home, three times daily (morning, afternoon, evening), taking 3 measures per reading for 6 days providing 54 blood pressure readings of which the average BP was obtained. Data was analysed using random effects model that included fixed effects for Diet, Visit, Diet x Visit interaction (STATA). Differences between diets were then assessed using the overall Diet x Visit interaction term and the marginally adjusted mean values. 137 volunteers completed the trial (MedDiet n=74, HabDiet n=63). Compliance to the MedDiet was maintained (92%) throughout the intervention according to 3‐day weighed food records collected at each time‐point. Mean SBP at baseline, 3 and 6 months, respectively, were: 124.9±1.4mmHg, 119.3±1.4mmHg and 118.9±1.6mmHg for MedDiet; and 127.8±1.5mmHg, 123.9±1.5mmHg and 122.1±1.7mmHg for Hab Diet. The MedDiet group had a significantly greater reduction in SBP than the HabDiet group at 3 months (P=0.031 for interaction) which was also significantly reduced for the afternoon measure of systolic BP alone (P=0.024 for interaction). Although both groups had clinically relevant decreases in SBP, following the MedDiet resulted in a greater reduction in SBP than for the habitual group. This dietary pattern could be utilised in Australia as part of a diet and lifestyle intervention for the control of elevated BP.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by a grant from the National Health Medical Research Council of Australia.
The Effect of Yogurt on Human Body Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Experiments
Authors: Kaiser Kathryn A , Jeansonne Madeline M , Brown Andrew W
Published: November 2023

Objective

To quantify body weight outcomes from randomized studies using added yogurt as a weight loss intervention.

Design

We extracted body weight or body composition outcomes and used a random effects summary of mean differences between treatment and control groups to evaluate overall effects on body weight/body composition outcomes.

Data Sources

Cochrane Library and SCOPUS were searched from inception to September 1, 2015. We used search terms: (“yogurt” OR “yoghurt”) AND (“body weight” OR “obesity”), with limits on Human studies published in the English language.

Review Methods

Two authors reviewed potential studies according to the following inclusion criteria: Participants were randomly assigned; the study sample was on healthy human adults or children of any age; the intervention duration was at least one week; and body weight or body composition was measured by researchers (no self‐report) and the outcomes were reported (no non‐reported data sought).

Results

Six studies were included (N = 242 total participants, 13 comparisons). Most comparisons were between yogurt and other dairy interventions. Two of thirteen comparisons reported significant differences in weight, one favoring yogurt, and one favoring the alternative. Meta‐analysis showed no significant weight change overall: Mean Difference = − 0.02 Kg; 95% Confidence Interval = −0.40 to 0.35; p = 0.90. Low heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 8%).

Conclusions

Existing randomized evidence does not support the hypothesis that yogurt uniquely and significantly affects weight. Data are limited by a small number of studies, with small sample sizes within each study.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by internal university funds.
Milk and Dairy Foods and Growth Parameters among Adolescents
Authors: Nezami Manijeh , Sabate Joan , Beeson Larry , Segovia‐Siapco Gina
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity is associated with a greater chance of a lifetime of obesity and disability in adulthood. Evidence suggests that dairy at recommended levels could be beneficial in maintaining normal weight and body composition.

OBJECTIVE

Determine whether dairy food consumption is associated with anthropometric indicators of health (weight‐for‐age z‐scores [WAZ], height‐for‐age z‐scores [HAZ], body mass index z‐scores [BMIZ], waist‐to‐height ratio [WHtR], waist circumference, fat‐free mass [FFM], and fat mass [FM]) in adolescents (ages 12–18).

METHODS

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 536 adolescents (231 males and 305 females) using a semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire containing 151 food items of which 34 were dairy‐containing foods. Dairy foods were categorized into milk, cheese, sweetened dairy, and total dairy. Weight, height, waist circumference, and body composition were measured during school visits.

RESULTS

Mean total dairy intake for boys was 3.39 (SD=2.04) and 2.66 (SD=1.61) servings/day for girls. In multiple regression analysis, total dairy intake was significantly associated with FFM (β=4.83 [95% CI: 1.79, 7.87], p=0.002) and FM (β=3.89 [95% CI: 0.58, 7.21], p=0.021), and cheese intake is significantly associated with FFM (β=4.22 [95% CI: 0.98, 7.47], p=0.011) only in boys but not in girls, even after controlling for energy and other confounders. Total dairy intake is positively associated with WHtR (β=0.02 [95% CI: 0.00, 0.04], p=0.039) in boys only. There was no significant association between total dairy or any of the dairy subgroups (milk, cheese or sweetened dairy) and BMIZ, whereas a significant positive association persisted between total dairy intake and WAZ (β=0.25 [95% CI: 0.00, 0.49], p=0.045) and HAZ (β=0.28 [95% CI: 0.04, 0.52], p=0.021) even after controlling for confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

No specific dairy subgroup was associated with the anthropometric parameters but milk seems to be associated with WHtR. In this adolescent population, dairy consumption seems to influence the growth in both genders, and the body composition and central obesity in boys. Prospective studies may be needed to identify how dairy foods and types of dairy foods are related to the growth, body composition, and general and central obesity of adolescents.

Support or Funding Information

The original study was funded by White Wave Foods. No funding was received for this study
Metabolic Behavior, Body Composition and Satiety Associated with Egg Consumption in Healthy Young Population
Authors: Fierros‐Valdez Jesus Antonio , Valenzuela‐Rubio Nancy Guadalupe , Ochoa‐Acosta Dora Alicia , Castro‐Sanchez Francisco Humberto , Dominguez‐Rodriguez Maribel , Vergara‐Jimenez Marcela
Published: November 2023

Egg consumption has been associated with increasing serum cholesterol, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends to consume no more than 1 piece (60g) of egg per day. Mexico is the main egg consumer worldwide with 23 kg per capita. General mexican egg consumers exceed the AHA recommendation. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of 60g versus 120g of egg consumption per day in body composition, biochemical behavior and satiety in a healthy population. We recruited 20 healthy subjects (10 men and 10 women, 18–23y). A crossover design study was conducted during 10w (4w for Stage 1, 2w of a washout period and another 4w for Stage 2). All subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups AB and BA. Letter A represents 60g and B 120g. Anthropometric and biochemical data was collected at the beginning and during weeks 4, 6, and 10. Also a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was applied to compare subject's perception on satiety between 60g and 120g. We did not find statistically significance differences in any anthropometric parameter or lipid profile (Total cholesterol, HDL‐c, LDL‐c, and Triglycerides). According to VAS, when participants consumed 120g of egg per day referred more satiety than when they consumed 60g. Our results suggest that eating up to 120 g of egg per day in a healthy population does not alter the lipid profile and anthropometric parameters but maintains satiety for longer time.
Cardiovascular and Lifestyle Factors Influencing the Metabolic Syndrome in Overweight and Obese Participants of a Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Tapsell Linda , Humphries Allison , Neale Elizabeth , Batterham Marijka
Published: November 2023

Background

Identifying individuals most at risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS) and therefore cardiovascular disease (CVD) is informative for disease prevention in the primary healthcare context.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of baseline data on participants in a healthy lifestyle clinical trial (the HealthTrack study). Participants were community volunteers aged 25–54 years with a BMI 25–40kg/m2. Measurements included MetS [1], cardiovascular disease (CVD) [2] and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk [3], weight, % body fat, dietary intake, ankle brachial index (ABI), physical activity, socio‐economic position and psychological profile. Backward stepwise linear regression was used to assess association of lifestyle factors with presence of MetS and linear regression was used to examine the association between MetS and risk of CVD, CHD and ABI. The study is registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTRN12614000581662).

Results

373 participants were included in the analysis with 130 (34.9%) being categorised as having MetS at baseline. The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the baseline covariates that were significantly and positively associated with the presence of metabolic syndrome were being male (coefficient 0.52, p=0.04), higher BMI (coefficient 1.26, p=0.00) and older age (coefficient 1.08, p=0.00). All other covariates dropped out of the multivariate regression. Data were available on 351 participants for assessment of Framingham risk. Participants with MetS at baseline had a 4.37% increase in CVD risk and were 7.8 times more likely to be at moderate risk of CHD than those without MetS. However MetS was not predictive of peripheral artery disease.

Conclusions

By studying overweight and obese volunteers for a healthy lifestyle intervention trial we confirmed that those most likely to develop MetS are older, overweight males and those with MetS have a higher risk of developing CVD. Primary healthcare preventative programs may need to target this population.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute and the California Walnut Commission. The funding bodies were not involved in the analysis and interpretation of data, or writing of the report. Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute facilities were used for conducting the study, including the collection of data.
Serum Advanced Glycation End‐products (AGE) of Humans Before and After Consumption of an AGE‐rich Meal
Authors: Powers Hayley , Breunig Anton , Verissimo Francielle , Silvamen Talitha , Oliveira Aline , de Oliveira Marianne , de Araujo Lima Sarah , Maher Margaret
Published: November 2023

Advanced glycation end‐products (AGE) are products of non‐enzymatic reactions between free amino groups and the carbonyl groups of reducing sugars in foods cooked at high temperatures. They are also formed in the body during normal cellular metabolism. Previous studies in humans and other animals have linked elevated blood AGE to vascular damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, aging, and/or chronic diseases, such as diabetes. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among metabolic syndrome risk factors and serum AGE levels after consumption of an AGE‐rich meal of fried ham, scrambled eggs, toast, butter and ultra high temperature (UHT)‐pasteurized milk. ELISA was used to quantify serum AGE values. Metabolic and cardiovascular risk‐related parameters (mean ± SEM) examined included fasting blood glucose (89 ± 2 mg/dL, range 76–107 mg/dL ), total cholesterol (197 ± 8 mg/dL, range 139–282 mg/dL), HDL (60 ± 4 mg/dL, range 35–99 mg/dL), LDL (113 ± 7 mg/dL, range 64–211 mg/dL), triglycerides (123 ± 11 mg/dL, range 50–213 mg/dL), blood pressure (SBP = 120 ± 2 mmHg; DBP = 76 ± 2 mmHg, range SBP 106–140 mmHg; DBP 62–92 mmHg), and BMI (25.5 ± 1.1, range 20.3–36.6). Blood samples were collected prior to (fasted) and two hours following consumption of the AGE‐rich meal. Of twenty‐two participants, ranging in age from 18–58 years, eight showed increased AGE levels, fourteen showed decreased AGE levels, and eight exhibited a change of less than five units following the meal. The average pre‐meal serum AGE level was 81.5 ± 4.8 μg/mL (range 35.9–135.3 μg/mL), while the average two hour post‐meal serum AGE level decreased to 78.3 ± 4.9 μg/mL (range 14.0–125.3 μg/mL). No correlation between metabolic syndrome risk factors and serum AGE (pre‐meal, post‐meal, or pre‐post difference) was found, possibly related to a low number of subjects exhibiting more than one risk factor for metabolic syndrome. However, it was observed that two hours post‐meal consumption, mean serum AGE levels were lowered, which is consistent with other studies at two hours post consumption. In other longer studies of the effects of dietary AGE, increases in AGE levels peak later following AGE‐rich meals. The reason for the decrease of serum AGE at two hours post consumption in this and other studies is unknown and warrants further examination and explanation.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by the Dean of Science and Health and Office of International Education at the University of Wisconsin ‐ La Crosse.
Relationship between self‐reported hot pepper consumption and body weight status among adults
Authors: Wang Changzheng , Huang Lingyu , Butler Cecil
Published: November 2023

The objective of the project was to determine how preference for and consumption of foods flavored with hot peppers or hot pepper sauces might be related to body weight status of adults. Visitors to the 2015 Kentucky State Fair were recruited to fill out a questionnaire before they were given a free analysis of their body composition (body fat %) with a Tanita TBF‐521 body composition analyzer. Among the 80 participants, 55% were female and 45% were male; 56% were Caucasian and 16% African Americans and 28% Asian Americans. Up to 27% of the participants liked hot peppers somewhat and 38% like them very much. However, only 21% had hot peppers twice a week and 14% had them every day. Over 30% had hot peppers less than once per month. About 30% of the participants thought hot peppers would lead them to eat more and another 30% thought hot peppers would lead them to eat less with nearly 40% did not think hot peppers would lead them to eat more or less foods. There were no significant differences in body mass index or body fat percent due to preferences for hot peppers or frequency of hot pepper consumption overall. Body mass index and body fat percent were significantly higher for women than for men. Increasing consumption of hot peppers tended to be correlated with lower body fat percent in women but not in men. Further study with a large number of subjects are needed to clarify the relationship between consumption of hot peppers and body weight status.
The Impact of Supplementation with Omega‐3 Long‐Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Adolescents
Authors: Inda‐Icaza Patricia , Lopez‐Alarcon Mardia , de Lourdes Barbosa‐Cortez Maria , Marquez Concepcion , Armenta‐Alvarez Andrea , Bram‐Falcon Maria Teresa , Mayorga‐Ochoa Marielle
Published: November 2023

Objective

To demonstrate the impact of supplementation with n‐3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LCPUFA) on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) of obese adolescents.

Material and methods

In a randomized clinical design, obese individuals were selected and randomly assigned to receive 1.2 g n‐3 LCPUFA daily during 3 months together with a hypocaloric diet (O3), or 1.0 g sunflower oil and a similar diet as placebo (P). Dietary information, using the multiple pass 24h‐recall questionnaire, blood pressure and anthropometry were monthly registered. Peripheral blood samples were obtained at inclusion and at the end of follow‐up to determine fasting glucose, triglycerides (TAG) and HDL‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) by colorimetric methods. To diagnose MS we used the IDF cutoff points for central obesity, glucose and HDL‐C. However, we used the criteria of the American Academy of Pediatrics to detect hypertension, and for hipertriglyceridemia a cutoff point of 110 mg/dL was considered. Non‐parametric statistics, Chi2 test and logistic regression models were used for analysis.

Results

From 354 individuals, 105 and 111 completed the study for the O3 and P groups respectively. Adherence to treatments and changes in anthropometric and biochemical parameters after supplementation were comparable between groups. At baseline, 69 (31%) individuals from the complete sample met the criteria for MS; the frequency was similar in both groups (30.91% vs. 30.97%, p = 0.992) for O3 and P respectively. Likewise, at the end of the study, 63 individuals presented MS and the frequency was comparable between groups (26.36% vs. 32.14%, p = 0.344). Nevertheless, a detailed analysis exhibited that from the 69 individuals with MS at baseline, 30 remitted at the end of the study, but 26 who did not have the syndrome at baseline, acquired it at the end. While the frequency of remission was comparable between groups (12.2% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.734), the frequency of individuals who acquired the syndrome tended to be smaller in the O3 than in the P group (8.18% vs. 15.18%, p=0.10). Adjusting by basal body mass index z‐score; Tanner status; and dietary energy, calcium, magnesium and n‐3 fatty acids intake, the supplementation with n‐3 LCPUFA protected against the risk to present MS at the end of the follow‐up (OR = 0.58, IC95 = 0.29, 1.11).

Conclusions

The results of the study provide evidence that LCPUFA n‐3 supplementation to obese adolescents protects against the risk to acquire MS.

Support or Funding Information

The study was funded by the Mexican Institute of Social Security, funding # FIS/IMSS/PROT/PRIO/11/014
Plasma Metabolome Correlates with Habitual Dietary Intakes among Chinese Adults
Authors: Yu Danxia , Moore Steven , Matthews Charles , Xiang Yong‐Bing , Li Richard , Zhang Xianglan , Gao Yu‐Tang , Zheng Wei , Shu Xiao‐Ou
Published: November 2023

Objective

We used untargeted metabolomics to identify potential novel dietary biomarkers and provide insights into biological pathways underlying diet‐disease relations.

Methods

Included in the study were 903 Chinese women and men drawn from the Shanghai Women's and Men's Health Studies. They were 40–74 years old and had no diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or cancer at blood draw. Dietary intakes during one year prior to blood draw were assessed by trained interviewers using validated food‐frequency questionnaires. The present analyses focused on 19 food groups. Untargeted plasma metabolome was measured by Metabolon Inc., which detected 689 metabolites with known identities and 690 unidentified metabolites. Partial Spearman correlation with control of the false discovery rate (FDR) was used to identify significant food‐metabolite associations. Potential confounders adjusted included age, sex, total energy intake, body mass index, smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, fasting hours, and time of blood draw.

Results

At FDR <0.05, tea, rice, dairy, fish, apples/pears, berries/melons, peanuts, poultry, eggs, allium vegetables, starchy vegetables, soy foods, and citrus fruit were each correlated with at least one plasma metabolite (P‐value = 5×10−34 to 1×10−3; correlation coefficient = −0.44 to 0.41). Strong correlations included tea with methylxanthines and their metabolites, peanuts with tryptophan betaine and indoleacrylate, and dairy and fish with certain unidentified metabolites. Many metabolites were associated with multiple food groups, e.g. glycerate and threonate with various fruits and ergothioneine with poultry, fish, and rice, suggesting shared food components or eating habits. Some metabolites were associated with single food group, e.g. alliin with alliums and 3‐carboxy‐4‐methyl‐5‐propyl‐2‐furanpropanoate (CMPF) with fish, suggesting that they might serve as specific biomarkers for these foods.

Conclusions

We identified multiple plasma metabolites significantly associated with habitual food intakes among middle‐aged and older urban Chinese adults. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported, in part, by the US National Institutes of Health [R37CA070867 and UM1CA182910 to Dr. W. Zheng, UM1CA173640, R01HL079123 and NO2‐CP11010‐66 to Dr. X.O. Shu]. This work was also supported, in part, by the Breast Cancer Research Stamp Fund, awarded through competitive peer review and the Intramural Research Program of the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health.
Dietary Carbohydrates but Not Proteins Are the Main Nutritional Determinant of FGF21 Production in Mice
Authors: Chalvon‐Demersay Tristan , Even Patrick Christian , Tomé Daniel , Chaumontet Catherine , Piedcoq Julien , Gaudichon Claire , Azzout‐Marniche Dalila
Published: November 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a polypeptide secreted by the liver and involved in various metabolic processes, such as ketogenesis, lipid oxidation, thermogenesis and white adipose tissue browning. Nutritional mechanisms controlling its secretion are poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of changes in the protein to carbohydrate ratio in the diet on FGF21 synthesis and secretion by the liver and the subsequent impact on energy metabolic pathways.

25 male C57BL/6 mice aged 7 weeks were divided into 3 groups (n = 8–9/group) and fed during three weeks with a low‐protein/high‐carb diet (LPHC), a normo‐protein/normo‐carb diet (NPNC) or a high‐protein/low‐carb diet (HPLC). Food intake and body weight were measured throughout the experiment. At the end of the first week, the thermogenic response to feeding (TEF) was followed during 6 hours after ingestion of a 1g‐calibrated meal of their test‐diet given after an overnight fast. At the end of the experiment, the same test‐meal procedure was repeated and mice were killed four hours latr, for measurement of gene expression in liver, brown and epidydymal adipose tissues. In parallel with this in vivo experiment, primary cultures of rat hepatocytes were conducted to measure the specific effects of amino acids, leucine and glucose in the presence or absence of insulin and/or glucagon on the synthesis of FGF21.

Plasma FGF21 measured 4 hours after ingestion of the test‐meals was positively correlated with the carbohydrate content of the diet. Consumption of LPHC and HPLC diets increased TEF but with different kinetics compared to the NPNC diet. In LPHC‐fed mice expression of UCP2 in the epididymal adipose was increased while in HPLC‐fed mice, ketogenesis, measured before ingestion of the test‐meal (fasted state), was increased. In primary cultured of hepatocytes high glucose concentrations in the presence of insulin increased FGF21 synthesis. Amino acid or leucine alone had no effect on FGF21 synthesis, glucagon decreased FGF21 synthesis and this last effect was antagonized by insulin.

These results indicate that FGF21 synthesis is stimulated by carbohydrate and glucose but not protein and amino acid. Therefore, the increased TEF observed in response to ingestion of the LPHC diet was probably mediated by FGF21 whereas the influence of HPLC diet on fasting ketogenesis and TEF did not involve FGF21.
Protein Level in a Meal Influences Novel Object Recognition in Exercise‐Trained Rats
Authors: Fecych Mariel , Murray Coleman , Oberlin Douglas , Porcelli Vincent , Starnes Joseph , Etnier Jennifer , Beverly Joseph L.
Published: November 2023

Exercise and breakfast have positive effects on learning and memory; however, little is known of the acute effect of breakfast composition. The objective of the presented study was to evaluate the effect of protein level in a meal equivalent to breakfast on a memory task in exercise‐trained rats.

Adolescent male Spraque‐Dawley rats were assigned to a 6‐week exercise program (n=18) on a motorized treadmill or a sedentary control group (n=18). Exercise duration was increased to 60 min and intensity to 30 m/min at a 10.5% grade over a 4‐week period. Throughout the study, rats were on a feeding schedule consisting of a 30 min meal (20% of daily calories) provided 60 min into the dark period and ad libitum access to rodent chow the last 5 hrs of the dark period. At the end of training week 5, rats were randomly fed a 4g breakfast meal of high casein (50% by calories; HC) or low casein (15% by calories; LC) diets and tested using a Novel Object Recognition task 60 min later. The task consisted of a 5 min acquisition phase followed by a 5 min testing phase 60 min later. Rats spending less than 30 sec exploring objects during either phase or exhibiting clear location preference (≥70% of time on one object during acquisition phase) were removed from the study. Results were evaluated using two‐way ANOVA and paired t‐test.

All rats consumed their entire ration of diet during the breakfast meal. During the acquisition phase rats spent approximately 50% of time exploring each of the two objects. During the testing phase, there was no significant effect of exercise‐training (p=0.91); however, there were significant effects of protein level (p=0.02) and the interaction between protein level and training (p=0.05). In the sedentary group, rats fed either the LC or HC diet spent 64% (p=0.05) or 66% (p=0.02) of time exploring the novel object, respectively. In the trained group, rats fed the LC spent 57% (p=0.15) of time exploring the novel object vs 73% (p<0.005) by HC‐fed rats. Total time exploring objects was longer during the testing phase than the acquisition phase (71 +/− 3 sec vs 61 +/− 3 sec, p=0.01).

The level of protein in a meal immediately prior to a learning task had a greater influence on learning by exercise‐trained than sedentary rats. There seemed little benefit of a higher protein meal on the memory task in sedentary rats. However, the low protein meal reduced performance while the high protein meal increased performance on the recognition task in the trained rats (vs sedentary controls). These results support the importance of dietary protein intake prior to cognitive tasks in exercise‐trained individuals.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by UNCG Faculty First Grant and School of Health and Human Sciences Research Excellence Grant
Iron Supplementation Reverses Reduced Global Hydroxymethylcytosine Associated with Chronic Alcohol Consumption in Rats
Authors: Choi Sang Woon , Tammen Stephanie A , Park Jung Eun , Friso Simonetta , Chung Jayong
Published: November 2023

Alcohol is known to affect two epigenetic phenomena, DNA methylation and DNA hydroxymethylation, aberrations of which can cause cancer development and progression. Iron is a cofactor of ten‐eleven translocation (TET) enzymes that catalyze the conversion from methylcytosine to hydroxymethylcytosine, part of the demethylation process. We determined the influence of chronic alcohol consumption and iron supplementation on DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation using 24 male Sprague‐Dawley rats and Lieber‐DeCarli alcohol diets (36% calories from ethanol) along with iron supplementation (0.6% carbonyl iron). Hepatic non‐heme iron concentrations were measured by colorimetric assays. Protein levels of hepatic ferritin and transferrin receptor were determined by Western blotting. Methylcytosine, hydroxymethylcytosine and unmodified cytosine were measured using LC‐MS/MS method. Iron supplementation significantly increased hepatic non‐heme iron contents (p<0.05) but alcohol alone did not. On the other hand, both alcohol and iron significantly increased ferritin levels and decreased transferrin receptor levels (p<0.05). Alcohol reduced DNA hydroxymethylation (0.21 ± 0.04% vs 0.33 ± 0.04%, p = 0.01) compared to control, while iron supplementation to alcohol diet did not change DNA hydroxymethylation. There was no significant difference in methylcytosine levels, while unmodified cytosine levels were significantly increased in alcohol‐fed groups compared to control 95.61 ± 0.08% vs 95.26 ± 0.12%, p=0.03), suggesting that alcohol further increases the conversion from hydroxymethylcytosine to unmodified cytosine. Chronic alcohol consumption alters global DNA hydroxymethylation in the liver but iron supplementation reverses the epigenetic effect of alcohol.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported in part by the Korean Food Research Institute (S.W.C.) and the Basic Science Research Program of the National Research Foundation (NRF‐2010‐0011226 to J.C.)
Dogs choose 23% of their calories as protein which is associated with body composition and circulating metabolites
Authors: Jewell Dennis Edward , Vondran Jodi C. , Vanchina Melissa A.
Published: November 2023

As in other mammals, domestic dogs have specific taste preferences that can be influenced by macronutrient composition and physical characteristics of food as well as the presence or absence of specific taste imparting compounds (palatability enhancers). This study investigated the relationship of body composition and food choice and that choice on subsequent metabolomic shifts. Experimental foods were prepared with similar palatability for a population (as evaluated by the ratio of the test food to the total daily food consumed [grams test/(grams test+grams control)] through manipulations of factors independent of macronutrients. These foods with similar palatability preference for the population as a whole were then investigated for intake choice with 20 dogs with varying body fat (mean 3.9 kg, Std. Dev. 0.9) as well as subsequent effect of food choice on serum metabolites. Four completely balanced foods were available to the dogs at all times. The four foods had: a) 33% of calories from protein, b) 54% calories from fat, c) 56% calories from carbohydrate and d) intermediate level of calories from protein, fat and carbohydrate. Dogs chose to consume 23.0% calories from protein (Std. Dev. 1.5%, min 20% max 26%). Body composition influenced the choice of percent calories as protein; There was a positive relationship between body fat and percent calories as protein (r=0.56 p=0.02) while there was no relationship between body lean and percent calories as protein (r=0.06; p=0.82). Overall, dogs with high body fat showed the highest preference for dietary calories from protein. There was a positive association between the percent of calories as protein and ornithine and homocitrulline suggesting increased urea cycle metabolism. Increasing calories from protein were also negatively associated with specific metabolites in the TCA cycle (citrate, alpha ketoglutarate). There was an association with increased protein intake and decreasing endocannobionods (N‐oleoyltaurine, palmitoyl ethanolamide N‐palmitoyltaurine). In summary, when given the opportunity to choose between foods which had similar palatability dogs chose to consume 23.0% of their calories as protein and had an increased preference for protein as adiposity increased. These intake preferences were associated with metabolic changes reflecting metabolic shifts.

Support or Funding Information

Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.
BRAIN DEVELOPMENT AFTER PRETERM BIRTH IS ENANCED BY INCLUDING PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE IN FORMULA: EVIDENCE FROM PRETERM PIGS
Authors: Buddington Randal K , Chizhikov Victor V , Sable Jeffrey J , Sable Helen J , Iskusnykh Igor Y , Steshina E Y , Holloway Zade R , Buddington Karyl K , Lifshitz Yael
Published: November 2023

Brain development is compromised in 40–50% of preterm infants. This is evident from the decreased cerebellar size from MRI imaging, delays in sensory processing and neural development, and an increased risk of hearing loss after preterm birth. In light of the importance of nutrition support for brain development of preterm infants, we tested if development of the brain of pigs delivered prematurely at a stage of development relevant to 32 week preterm infants (92% term; day 105 of 115 d of gestation would benefit from feeding a formula supplemented with phosphatidylserine (1.9 g/L; InCogTM; Enzymotec, Israel). Controls included siblings fed formula without InCogTM and newborn vaginally delivered term pigs. Event‐related brain potentials (ERP) were recorded the day of delivery and postnatal days 2, 5, and 10 in response to pairs of 50‐ms tones (500‐ms inter‐tone interval) with randomized inter‐pair intervals (IPI) of 1 or 5 seconds during a 30 minute period with randomized inter‐pair intervals (IPI) of 1 or 5 seconds. ERPs (specifically the negative (N1) and positive (P2) deflection components ~100 ms and 200 ms after a stimulus, respectively) were not detected the day of delivery, were discernable at day 2, and at day 10 (term equivalent) were significantly larger and earlier than at days 2 and 5 emergence. The pigs were euthanized at day 10 and the cerebella were removed, weighed and evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The formula with InCogTM resulted in increased cerebellar weight and numbers of granule cells compared with control formula. These findings suggest InCogTM is a promising ingredient for preterm formula that will improve cerebellar growth and maturation after preterm birth.

Support or Funding Information

This study was partially funded by Enzymotec
Probiotics (Lactobacillus gasseri KS‐13, Bifidobacterium bifidum G9‐1, and Bifidobacterium longum MM‐2) and Health‐Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Seasonal Allergies
Authors: Dennis Jennifer C. , Culpepper Tyler , Nieves Carmelo , Ukhanova Maria , Mai Volker , Christman Mary C. , Langkamp‐Henken Bobbi
Published: November 2023

Background

Quality of life (QOL) is often reduced during seasonal allergies due to troubles from nose and eye symptoms. Probiotics modulate immune function and may improve QOL for some individuals during allergy season. Induction of tolerance by regulatory T cells (Tregs) may be involved in this process

Methods

In this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial, 173 participants (26.0±1.2 y [mean±SEM] and 62.8% females, probiotic group; 27.6±1.4 y and 74.7% females, placebo group) who self‐identified as having seasonal allergies received either a probiotic (2 capsules/day, 1.5 billion cells/capsule) or placebo capsule during spring allergy season for 6 weeks. QOL was assessed throughout the study using the Mini Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (MRQLQ), which reports the average score for 14 symptoms rated from 0 (not troubled) to six (extremely troubled). Intestinal microbial profiles were determined via 16S rRNA sequencing from stool samples collected at baseline and at final (week 6). Fasting blood samples were taken from a subgroup (n=72) at baseline and final to determine immune parameters; serum total IgE and Tregs were quantified via ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively.

Results

Total IgE increased from baseline to final regardless of group (data were log transformed for analysis; untransformed: 547±62.5 vs. 595±66.6 ng/mL, p=0.033), indicating a sustained response to allergens. Both groups reported decreases in MRQLQ scores from baseline to final, indicating a possible placebo effect or induction of tolerance; however, the negative change in global MRQLQ scores from baseline to final was significantly larger in magnitude in the probiotic group (−0.66±0.13 vs. −0.23±0.16, p=0.039), indicating higher QOL. Several domain scores from the MRQLQ also differed significantly between groups (−0.55±0.15 vs. −0.05±0.16, p=0.017 for activities; −0.71±0.18 vs. −0.09±0.19, p=0.016 for nose symptoms; −0.90±0.18 vs. −0.37±0.18, p=0.008 for other symptoms). Alpha and beta diversity indices to measure representative intestinal bacterial phyla did not differ between groups. The percentage of Tregs increased from baseline to final in all participants, but changes were not different between groups.

Conclusions

This combination of probiotics resulted in a higher self‐reported QOL during allergy season for healthy individuals who experience seasonal allergies. However, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism by which probiotics influence allergy‐related QOL and to establish the clinical relevance for the change in the MRQLQ scores.

Support or Funding Information

Wakunaga of America Co., Ltd.