bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O‐Glycan recognition and function in mice and humans
Authors: Cummings Richard D.
Published: November 2023

Glycans function both as direct recognition molecules, where they are bound by a wide variety of glycan‐binding proteins (GBPs), including animal cell receptors, microbial adhesins lectins and toxins, and indirectly glycans function in glycoproteins to facilitate intra‐ and intermolecular interactions that maintain homeostasis and biological integrity. To explore both direct and indirect functions of glycans we have engineered mutations in biosynthetic pathways, most notably in regard to O‐glycan biosynthesis (O‐GalNAc glycans). Normal synthesis of such O‐glycans in animals requires the action of the T‐synthase, a b3‐galactosyltransferase that generates the core 1 O‐glycan Galb1‐3GalNAca1‐Ser/Thr from the Tn antigen precursor GalNAca1‐Ser/Thr. Such normal extended O‐glycans, including those with the core 2 O‐glycan structure and sialyl Lewis x antigen, are recognized by key GBPs, including P‐selectin and L‐selectin. Such specific recognition of O‐glycans by P‐selectin, CLEC2, and other GBPs, directly regulated many cellular interactions and signaling pathways important in development, morphogenesis and organ development. In molecular and biochemical studies we have explored such recognition by generating glycopeptides with specific modifications, including O‐glycans and sulfated tyrosine residues. In terms of additional functions of O‐glycans, we have exploited our discovery that the T‐synthase requires a specific protein chaperone, termed Cosmc, encoded on the X‐chromosome. Cosmc, a resident protein in the endoplasmic reticulum, directly interacts with the newly synthesized T‐synthase to facilitate folding to the active form of the enzyme, that subsequently moves to its functional location in the Golgi apparatus. Thus, Cosmc is the key regulator of Tn antigen expression, and loss of Cosmc, through epigenetic silencing, gene mutations and other pathways, and acquired changes in Cosmc function cause Tn expression in many human tumors and tumor cell lines and in Tn syndrome patients. Targeted deletion of Cosmc leads to loss of normal O‐glycans, expression of the Tn and sialyl Tn antigens, and multiple pathological consequences. In this presentation the loss of Cosmc has been explored in the gastrointestinal tract, where it leads to pathology, chronic inflammation, and changes in the gut microbiome, and in other cell types, such as T cells and B cells, where loss of Cosmc alters cellular maturation and functionalities. Our studies are revealing the multiple ways in which O‐glycans in humans, animals, and other organisms interact within the larger protein‐glycan interactome to regulate biological processes.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by NIH grants U01CA168930 and P41GM103694 to R.D.C.
Bacterial copper acquisition
Authors: Rosenzweig Amy C. , Kenney Grace E. , Dassama Laura M. K. , Ro Soo Y.
Published: November 2023

Methanotrophic bacteria use methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as their primary source of carbon and energy. The first step in methane metabolism is its oxidation to methanol. In mostly all methanotrophs, this chemically challenging reaction is catalyzed by particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO), a copper‐dependent integral membrane enzyme. Many methanotrophs acquire copper for pMMO by secreting small ribosomally produced, post‐translationally modified natural products called methanobactins. Each species produces a methanobactin (Mbn) with a unique structure, and all Mbns characterized thus far bind copper with high affinity. The copper‐loaded form (CuMbn) is then re‐internalized into the cell via an active transport process. Genome mining has led to the identification of operons containing potential Mbn biosynthesis, transport, and regulatory genes. These operons are present in a range of non‐methanotrophic bacteria as well, suggesting a broader role for Mbn and Mbn‐like molecules in and perhaps beyond copper acquisition. The roles of specific gene products have been investigated by genetic, biophysical, and structural approaches. These data provide evidence for CuMbn‐protein interactions and begin to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of its recognition, transport, and biosynthesis.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by NIH grants GM118035 (A. C. R.) and F32GM110934 (L. M. K. D.), a Burroughs Wellcome Fund PDEP award (L. M. K. D.), and AHA grant 14PRE20460104 (G. E. K.).
Plasma fatty acids patterns and hyperlipidemia: a prospective study
Authors: Gao Ying , Zhao Jing
Published: November 2023

Background

Individual fatty acids in plasma have been associated with blood lipids, including triglyceride, total cholesterol, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol. However, reports studying multiple fatty acids simultaneously are still fragmentary.

Objectives

We aimed to identify the individuals with certain fatty acids pattern whose blood lipids were more susceptible to change.

Design

One thousand nine hundred and seven Chinese were followed up for two years. Thirty three fatty acids in baseline plasma samples were measured with GC‐FID. iCluster analysis was used to classify the study subjects into subgroups according to fatty acids pattern. Logistic regression was used to explore the hyperlipidemia risk of the subjects with different fatty acids patterns.

Results

Four patterns were identified; correspondingly, four subgroups of subjects were classified: two for subjects with normal blood lipids and two for those with hyperlipidemia. Normal lipidemia (NL) subgroup 2 was characterized by the highest steric acid, very‐long‐chain saturated fatty acids (VLCSFA), and n‐3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs). Hyperlipidemia (HL) subgroup 2 had the highest myristic acid, de novo lipogenesis (DNL) fatty acids, α‐linolenic acid, and γ‐linolenic acid. NL‐subgroup 1 and HL‐subgroup 1 were similar in fatty acids patterns and had the middle level of these fatty acids. NL‐subgroup 1 had 61% higher risk of suffering from hyperlipidemia than NL‐subgroup 2 (RR=1.61, 95% CI=1.29–2.02). HL‐subgroup 1 had 46% higher probability of returning to normal‐lipidemia than HL‐subgroup 2 (RR=1.46, 95% CI=1.13–1.90).

Conclusion

Subjects with fatty acids pattern featured with higher DNL fatty acids and alpha‐linolenic acid, but lower VLCSFAs and n‐3 LCPUFAs, had more dynamic blood lipids. Intervention might be more effective on these subjects.

Support or Funding Information

100 talented plan of Chinese Academy of Sciences
The impact of avocado fruit on postprandial markers of cardio‐metabolic risk: An acute dose response study
Authors: Park Eunyoung , Huang Yancui , Xiao Di , Edirisinghe Indika , Burton‐Freeman Britt Marie
Published: November 2023

Avocados are a distinctive fruit characterized by their nutrient‐rich content including monounsaturated fat (MUFA), fiber and a number of essential micronutrients and bioactive phytochemicals. The aim of the present study was to assess the acute effects of two intake levels of avocado compared to no avocado on postprandial indices of metabolic and vascular health including glucose, insulin, lipids, and flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress/damage.

A single‐center, randomized, 3‐arm, controlled, 6‐h postprandial, crossover study was conducted in relatively healthy overweight/obese middle‐aged adults (n=31). Participants consumed a standardized Western‐style breakfast (640 kcal) containing 0 mg (Control), 68g (~ ½ Hass avocado, Half‐A) or 136 g (~ 1 Hass avocado, Whole‐A) on three separate occasions.

Increasing the MUFA and fiber content of the meal by replacing calories from carbohydrate with calories from avocados decreased the postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses to meals over 6 h, independent of dose, compared to the Control meal (both p<0.0001). FMD (% change) was significantly increased with avocado in the meals (treatments and treatment by time interaction, p<0.01 and p<0.005, respectively (percent Mean FMD ± SEM for Half‐A: baseline 5.2 ± 0.9%, 1‐h 9.0 ± 0.9% and 3‐h 11.5% ± 0.9%; Whole‐A: baseline 5.4 ± 0.9%, 1‐h 10.6 ± 0.9%, 3‐h 10.5 ± 0.9%; Control: baseline 5.6 ± 0.9%, 1‐h 5.0 ± 0.9%, 3‐h 7.4 ± 0.9%). Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses of lipids/lipoprotein particles indicated modified lipoprotein metabolism with Whole‐A consumption vs Control. Briefly, lower concentrations of postprandial triglyceride rich lipoprotein particles after the Whole‐A compared to the Control meal (p=0.02) were evident. A trend for treatment differences in the metabolism of LDL and HDL particles were also apparent with indication of differences by race/ethnicity on some outcomes (p<0.05).

No differences in the concentrations of oxidized LDL, MCP‐1, IL‐6 were observed over time or between meals, although TNF‐α tended to be lower after Whole‐A vs Control meal (p=0.07).

The present study provides important insight regarding the acute metabolic and cardio‐vascular benefits of incorporating avocados into a meal. Avocado meals improved postprandial glucose, insulin and lipid profiles with concomitant improvements in vascular reactivity as measured by FMD in middle‐aged, overweight/obese adults. The data contribute to a growing body of evidence revealing the health benefits of avocados.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Hass Avocado Board, Irvine, CA
Strawberry Supplementation Lessens Vascular Inflammation and Dysfunction Displayed by Diabetic db/db Mice
Authors: Petersen Chrissa , Bharat Divya , Cutler Brett , Gholami Samira , Denetso Christopher , Mueller Jennifer Ellen , Cho Jae Min , Kim Ji‐Seok , Symons J David , Velayutham Anandh Babu Pon
Published: November 2023

Background

Cardiovascular disease is 2–4 fold more prevalent in patients with diabetes. In diabetes high glucose induced vascular inflammation and the subsequent endothelial dysfunction leads to the development of atherosclerosis. Human studies have shown that the consumption of strawberries (SB) improves cardiovascular risk but the effects of SB on diabetic vasculature are unknown. We sought to determine whether dietary strawberry supplementation attenuates vascular inflammation and dysfunction in diabetic db/db mice.

Methods

Seven‐week old male diabetic db/db mice that consumed standard chow (db/db) or chow supplemented with 2.35% freeze‐dried strawberries (db/db+SB) for 10 weeks were compared to non‐diabetic control mice (db/+). Based on normalization to body surface area, the SB dose is equivalent to two human servings of SB (~160 g) per day. In vivo assessments at ~17 weeks included body weight and food intake, glucose (GTT), and insulin (ITT) tolerance, and systemic arterial blood pressure (tail cuff). Ex vivo analyses included arterial inflammation (monocyte binding to aortic endothelium), endothelial cell (EC) inflammation (mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines in carotid artery ECs), and mesenteric arterial reactivity (isometric tension procedures).

Results

Compared to db/+ animals, both diabetic groups displayed similar increases (p<0.05) in weight gain and impairments (p<0.05) in glucose and insulin tolerance. Arterial pressure (systolic, diastolic, and mean) was higher (p<0.05) in db/db vs. db/+ mice, but the severity of hypertension was attenuated (p<0.05) in db/db+SB mice. Relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh; 10−8‐10−6 M) in arteries precontracted with ~ 10−6 M phenylephrine was impaired (p<0.05) in db/db mice vs. db/+ animals, but no differences existed between db/db+SB vs. db/+ mice. Vasorelaxation to sodium nitroprusside (10−9‐10−4 M) was complete and similar among groups. Mouse monocyte WEHI 78/24 cells exhibited higher (p<0.05) binding to the aortic endothelium of db/db vs. db/+ mice, but this response was attenuated (p<0.05) in aortic endothelium from db/db+SB mice. Consistent with these findings, relative to results obtained from db/+ animals, elevations of MCP‐1/JE and KC expression were greater (p<0.05) in carotid artery ECs from db/db but were suppressed in db/db+SB mice.

Conclusion

Dietary supplementation of strawberries attenuates indices of diabetes‐induced vascular dysfunction without altering glucose and insulin tolerance. This study provides proof of concept for further considering strawberries as an adjunct therapy to improving vascular complications associated with diabetes.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by University of Utah Seed Grant and the College of Health Research Pilot Grant.
Effect of tocotrienol and statin on glucose homeostasis in high‐fat‐diet‐induced obese mice
Authors: Wright Kandis , Kaur Gurvinder , Tomison Michael D , Ogunmokun Gilbert , Rodriguez Anna , Dufour Jannette , Quintana Roger , Shen ChwanLi
Published: November 2023

Previously we have demonstrated the beneficial effect of tocotrienol (TT, extracted from annatto consisting of 90% delta‐TT and 10% gamma‐TT) on glucose homeostasis in inbred male obese C57BL/6J mice. This study further examines the effects of TT in conjunction with statin on high‐fat‐diet‐(HFD)‐induced insulin resistance of obese outbred CD‐1 mice. In order to compare the effects of TT and statin and the interactive effects between these treatments, a 2 (no TT vs. TT) × 2 (no statin vs. statin) factorial ANOVA was used. Forty male CD‐1 mice (6‐weeks‐old) were assigned to 4 groups (n=10/group): HFD, HFD+TT (TT at 60 mg/kg body weight via oral feeding, 5x/week), HFD+statin (statin at 120 mg/kg diet), and HFD+TT+statin for 14 weeks. To determine the effects of TT and statin on glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance, glucose tolerance (GTT, 2g glucose/kg of body weight) and insulin tolerance (ITT, 1U/kg of body weight) tests were performed. The HFD group had impaired glucose tolerance and was insulin resistant as determined by GTT and ITT, respectively. Statin treatment alone improved the glucose homeostasis while TT alone had no beneficial effect. Interestingly, TT and statin had positive synergistic effect in improving glucose homeostasis. Both TT and statin treatment, alone or in combination, improved insulin sensitivity. Overall, our data demonstrates that TT and statin collectively improve glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity.

Support or Funding Information

American River Nutrition, Inc., Hadley, MA.
Dietary Fiber Supplementation Normalizes Serum Metabolites of Adults with Overweight/Obesity in a 12‐Week Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Mayengbam Shyamchand , Lambert Jennifer E. , Parnell Jill A. , Tunnicliffe Jasmine M. , Han Jay , Sturzenegger Troy , Vogel Hans J. , Shearer Jane , Reimer Raylene A.
Published: November 2023

Obesity predisposes to the development of several metabolic insults such as glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia and hypertension. It is also associated with alterations in gut microbiota and their metabolites in humans. A growing body of evidence demonstrates the importance of dietary fiber in preventing and managing several metabolic diseases. The current study aimed to provide mechanistic insight into the potential beneficial effects of yellow pea fiber in treating obesity‐related metabolic dysfunctions. A total of 53 overweight and obese adults were randomly assigned to a pea fiber (PF, n=29) or control (CO, n=24) group for 12 weeks. The PF group received wafers containing 5g/serving of yellow pea fiber thrice a day, while the CO group received an isocaloric amount of control wafer with no fiber. Serum and fecal samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the study. We employed 1H‐NMR spectroscopy and LC‐MS to analyse serum metabolites; and GC‐MS and HPLC‐DAD to analyse fecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids (BAs) respectively. Serum metabolomics analysis revealed impairments in acetylcarnitine, hexose, and certain glycerophsopholipids, SCFAs and amino acids concentrations in CO group which were not observed in the PF group compared to their baseline values. On the other hand, there was no significant change in fecal SCFAs and BAs in CO group. However, we found a significant increase in fecal acetate (P=0.039) and significant decreases in fecal isovalerate (P=0.015), cholic acid (P=0.011), deoxycholic acid (P=0.014) and total BAs (P=0.042) content in the PF group compared to baseline. A pathway analysis indicated potential defects in the synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies, aminoacyl‐tRNA biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, butanoate metabolism and glycine, serine and threonine metabolism in CO group which could be prevented by the addition of yellow pea fiber in the diet. Thus, the current study provided crucial mechanistic insight for the role of yellow pea fiber in the management of obesity and related diseases

Support or Funding Information

Alberta Innovates‐Health Solutions, Alberta Innovates‐Bio Solutions, Alberta Pulse Growers Commission; Eyes High Postdoctoral Fellowship
1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Mediates L6 Myoblast Differentiation via Vitamin D Receptor (VDR)
Authors: Park Min Young , Kim Jonggun , Whang Kwang‐Youn
Published: November 2023

In our previous study, it was demonstrated that skeletal muscle fiber type composition was changed by dietary supplementation of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 in growing rats. Potential mechanisms of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3, a precursor of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (active form), have been suggested in previous studies that VDR was involved with mouse C2C12 myoblasts. However, it has not been explained in rat L6 myoblasts. In this study, we examined the role of VDR in skeletal muscle differentiation and fiber type‐specific gene expression by using short hairpin RNA (shRNA) for VDR knockdown in rat L6 myoblast. L6 myoblasts transfected either with scrambled or shVDR vector were treated with vehicle (CON), 1 pM, 10 pM, or 100 pM 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VitD) for 8 days of differentiation. VDR knockdown was confirmed by Western blot. And myogenic regulatory markers and fiber type‐specific gene expression levels were determined by qPCR. VDR protein was increased by VitD at 10 pM and 100 pM compared to that of CON (1.46 and 1.89 folds, respectively, p<0.05). However, shVDR was effective in suppressing VDR up to 10 pM as VDR protein levels were decreased to 34 %, 24 %, and 39 % (CON, 1 pM, and 10 pM, respectively, p<0.05) compared to scrambled vector. And at 100 pM VitD, VDR was not repressed by shVDR compared to that of scrambled vector. Relative gene expression levels of both MyoD and Myogenin were downregulated by VDR knockdown in CON (0.56 and 0.36 folds, respectively, p<0.05), however, VitD treatment abolished the effects. Fiber type‐specific genes were also modulated by VDR knockdown. Gene expression level of Myh7, dominantly expressed gene in slow‐twitch fiber, was suppressed to 37 %, 29 %, and 43 % (CON, 1 pM, and 10 pM, respectively, p<0.05) by VDR knockdown compared to scrambled vector, but was restored at 100 pM. Myh2, which consists of fast‐twitch fiber, was also downregulated by VDR knockdown at CON (0.57 folds, p<0.05), but its level was restored by VitD treatment. The present study demonstrates that VDR affects mRNA levels of the genes involved in L6 myoblast differentiation and fiber type specificity. Also, the VDR knockdown effect was partially modulated by VitD. It could suggest that the effects of VitD on myogenic differentiation might be partially mediated through VDR.
Health Modifying Regions in the Oat (Avena sativa) Genome Responsible for Beneficial Effects on Immune and Gastrointestinal Health
Authors: Bussler Weston Woodrow , Dezego Katelyn , Bowen Mikayla , Buige Ashley , Esposito Debora , Lila Mary Ann , Komarnytsky Slavko
Published: November 2023

Genetic association studies have long been used to connect traits of interest to loci in crop genomes and guide breeding of superior plants. This technology has been used to increase yield, shelf life, sensory appeal, and environmental stress resistance. Our recent work has shown that human health modifying regions (HMRs) can be identified using the same approach and incorporated into commercial crops to maximize the health potential of food. The genes found within an HMR can be investigated for contribution to bioactive metabolite synthesis and regulation in the plant. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a non‐curable pathology of the gastrointestinal system characterized by recurring bouts of inflammation and persistent damage to the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Treatments for IBD are designed to help manage symptoms and maintain remission by preventing bouts of unencumbered inflammation or promoting healing of damaged tissue regions. Little is known about how various bioactive components from food impact IBS, but bioactive compounds in oats have shown ability to reduce inflammation and have been associated to promoting overall gastrointestinal health. We screened oat extracts from 115 genetically diverse breeding lines for their ability to modulate inflammation and induce cell migration into areas of injury in cell culture models of gastrointestinal health. Using a genome wide association study (GWAS), we associated each phenotype to loci on the oat genetic linkage map and identified specific candidate genes connected to metabolite biosynthesis and regulation. The identification of these HMRs will help guide future efforts to improve oat nutritional value for gastrointestinal health.
Regulation of Inducible Brown‐like Phenotype by Dietary 18‐Carbon Fatty Acids in Mouse Adipocytes
Authors: Shin Sunhye , Ajuwon Kolapo
Published: November 2023

Dietary fatty acids, in particular long‐chain fatty acids (LCFAs), regulate several metabolic processes and the activity of key transcription factors. However, effects of fatty acids on inducible brown‐like (beige or brite) phenotype is unknown. To determine whether dietary LCFAs promote thermogenesis in various types of mature white adipocytes, differentiated primary stromovascular cells (obtained from the subcutaneous inguinal fat pad), C3H10T1/2 cells, and 3T3‐L1 cells were treated with 50μM of the following 18‐carbon fatty acids: stearic acid (SA; 18:0), oleic acid (OA; 18:1, Δ9), linoleic acid (LA; 18:2, Δ9,12), α‐linolenic acid (ALA; 18:3, Δ9,12,15), γ‐linolenic acid (GLA; 18:3, Δ6,9,12), or pinolenic acid (PLA; 18:3, Δ5,9,12) for 24 hours. Expression levels of Ucp1 and Pgc1a were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR. LA, ALA, GLA, and PLA upregulated Ucp1 in primary adipocytes (p<0.0001); and GLA tended to upregulate Ucp1 in C3H10T1/2 adipocytes (p=0.0910). We also determined the effects of selective β‐adrenergic receptor (β‐AR) agonists on induction of brown‐like phenotype. Adipocytes were treated with 10mM of dobutamine (β1‐AR agonist), bambuterol (β2‐AR), and CGP‐12177‐Hydrochloride (β3‐AR) for 4 hours. In primary adipocytes, β1‐ and β3‐AR agonists tended to upregulate Ucp1 (p=0.0667), and all of the agonists upregulated Pgc1a (p=0.0219). In C3H10T1/2 adipocytes, β1‐ and β3‐AR agonists upregulated Ucp1 (p=0.0033). To investigate possible synergistic effects between the fatty acids and norepinephrine (NE; a non‐selective β‐AR agonist), adipocytes were treated for 4 hours with NE after a 24‐hour treatment with the fatty acids. In primary adipocytes, NE induced a higher expression of Ucp1 (p=0.0031) and Pgc1a (p=0.0651), and PLA augmented the NE effect (p=0.0030, p=0.0170, respectively). In C3H10T1/2 adipocytes, NE upregulated Ucp1 (p=0.0387) and Pgc1a (p=0.0124), but there were no effects of the fatty acids. These results indicate that, among the 18‐carbon fatty acids, there is specificity in the regulation of the browning phenotype; thus, dietary abundance of these fatty acids may determine their overall effect on adipocyte browning.

Support or Funding Information

Support was received from the Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University
Even Mealtime Distribution of Protein Intake Is Associated with Greater Muscle Strength, But Not with 3‐Year Decline, in Free‐Living Older Adults: The Nuage Study
Authors: Farsijani Samaneh , Payette Hélène , Morais José A. , Shatenstein Bryna , Gaudreau Pierrette , Chevalier Stéphanie
Published: November 2023

Background

Functional status declines with aging, impeding autonomy. Mealtime distribution of dietary protein was recently associated with muscle mass, yet its relation to physical performance remains unknown.

Objective

We examined the relationship between protein intake distribution and physical performance and its 3‐y decline, in community‐dwelling older adults.

Design

Three‐year follow‐up data from 827 men and 914 women (aged 67–84 y) participating in the longitudinal study on nutrition and successful aging (NuAge; Quebec, Canada) were analyzed. Physical performance, measured yearly, was grouped into 2 functional composite scores: muscle strength (handgrip, arm and leg) and mobility (timed up‐and‐go, chair stand, normal and fast walking speed). Dietary data were collected in 2 sets of 3×24‐h food recalls, at baseline and year 2. Individual mealtime protein distribution was calculated as the coefficient of variation (CV= SD/ χ̄) of grams of protein per meal. Mixed model analysis was used to examine trajectories of muscle strength and mobility across time, by sex, as conditioned by protein distribution, adjusted for age, protein quantity, education level, disease status, BMI, depression, cognitive function, smoking and mid‐upper arm muscle area.

Results

Physical performance deteriorated over 3 years, with muscle strength declining more than mobility score in men (−1.51±1.68 vs. −0.66±2.81) and women (−1.35±1.77 vs. −0.78±2.63), P<0.001. More evenly distributed protein intake, independently of total quantity, was cross‐sectionally associated with higher muscle strength score in men (β±SE; 0.44±0.18) and women (0.68±0.19), P<0.05 throughout follow‐up, before and after controlling for covariates. It was also associated with greater mobility score, only in men and before adjusting for covariates. Strength and mobility rates of decline were not affected by protein intake distribution in either sex. Also, higher protein quantity (g/d adjusted for energy) was independently associated with higher mobility score in both sexes and higher muscle strength in women (with a statistical trend in men) at each yearly follow‐up, but not with the longitudinal rate of decline over 3 years. Age was the only confounder affecting muscle strength decline over time.

Conclusions

In addition to the previously observed association with lean mass, an even distribution of daily protein intake across meals was independently associated with greater muscle strength, but not mobility score or functional decline, in older adults. Longer‐term investigation of the role of protein intake and its distribution, combined with other modifiable lifestyle factors, on physical performance is warranted.

Support or Funding Information

Dairy Farmers of Canada.
Effects of Consuming Protein‐rich Supplements Between or With Meals on Changes in Body Composition with Resistance Training: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hudson Joshua L. , Bergia Robert E. , Campbell Wayne W.
Published: November 2023

Higher dietary protein intakes achieved through consuming protein‐rich supplements may improve body composition with resistance training. With the recent interest in the potential for within‐day dietary protein distribution to elicit differential changes in body composition, a similar investigation specifically on consuming protein‐rich supplements is warranted. Therefore, the primary purpose of this systematic review of literature was to investigate whether consuming a protein‐rich supplement between meals (BET) versus with meals (WITH) would differentially influence adaptive changes in body composition while performing resistance training. 1938 articles were identified with PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and CINAHL using the keywords “dietary protein,” “body composition,” “muscle strength,” and “lean mass.” Data from the outcome variables whole body mass, lean mass, and fat mass were collected from randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of consuming protein‐rich supplements during resistance training (> 6 to ≤ 36 wk; median: 12 wk). Thirty randomized controlled trials resulting in 55 individual groups met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Supplementation ranged from 10 to 113 g protein/d in the BET groups (mean ± SD; 48 ± 26 g/d (n=40)) and 10 to 75 g/d in the WITH groups (32 ± 23 g/d (n=15)). The frequency of supplementation ranged from 1–3 times daily in the BET and WITH groups (mean ± SD; 1 dose/d: BET: 37 ± 22 g protein/dose (n =18), WITH: 15 ± 5 g protein/dose (n=7); 2 doses/d: BET: 22 ± 10 g protein/dose (n=11), WITH: 19 ± 7 g protein/dose (n=5); 3 doses/d; BET: 24 ± 7 g protein/dose (n=11), WITH: 25 ± 0 g protein/dose (n=3)). Protein‐rich supplementation resulted in 73% of BET groups increasing body mass compared to 53% of WITH groups. Eighty‐nine percent of BET groups gained lean mass compared to 93% of WITH groups; however, 52% percent of the BET groups gained ≥ 1.5 kg of lean mass compared to 14% of the WITH groups. Forty‐three percent of BET groups gained fat mass compared to only 13% of WITH groups. In regards to changes in lean mass to fat mass ratio, 85% of BET group increased their ratio compared to 100% of WITH groups. When groups consuming > 75 g protein/d in the BET groups were excluded, 68% gained ≥ 0.0 kg body mass, 40% ≥ gained 1.5 kg lean mass, and 43% gained ≥ 0.0 kg fat mass In conclusion, consuming protein‐rich supplements between meals was apparently more effective at increasing whole body mass, lean mass, and fat mass in adults during resistance training.

Support or Funding Information

Purdue University Lynn Fellowship to JLH and REB
Effects of a high protein diet with and without a multi‐strain probiotic and prebiotic on microbiota and gastrointestinal wellness in older women: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study
Authors: Ford Amanda L , MacPherson Chad , Girard Stephanie‐Anne , Tompkins Thomas A , Tremblay Julien , Christman Mary , Dahl Wendy J
Published: November 2023

Protein intake exceeding requirements may benefit physiological processes and reduce the risk of sarcopenia in older adults. However, high protein, animal‐based diets may produce undesirable perturbations in microbiota resulting in inflammatory conditions. With declining diversity of colonic microbiota among older adults, prebiotics and probiotics may confer benefits in this cohort. The aim of this research was to examine the effects of a high protein (animal and plant protein) diet on microbiota profile and digestive health in healthy older adults, and the potential mitigating role of a prebiotic, multi‐strain probiotic or synbiotic. A double‐blind, crossover, placebo‐controlled feeding trial was conducted. Healthy older women (n=26; 73.7±5.6 y) were randomized to an 18‐week crossover study design consisting of 4 interventions: i) high protein diet (2.0–2.5 g/kg/d), ii) high protein diet with a multi‐strain probiotic (2×1010 CFU/d), iii.) high protein diet with inulin, and iv) high protein diet with symbiotic (inulin + probiotic). Each 14‐d intervention period consisted of the same eucaloric, high‐protein diet separated by 14‐day washout periods. Gastrointestinal health, including stool frequency and weekly gastrointestinal symptoms measured by Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) were evaluated. Stools were collected during baseline, intervention and washout periods, and qPCR (polymerase chain reaction) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted. The results showed no phyla level changes, whereas high intra‐individual variations in genera and significant changes in operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were observed with treatments. Stool frequency was not different among periods. The high protein diet with interventions significantly increased GSRS scores of abdominal pain and indigestion syndromes, but not reflux, constipation and diarrhea syndrome, compared to baseline. The results of this study provide evidence that, contrary to the possible negative effects of a high protein, animal‐based diet, a high mixed protein diet did not have profound changes on microbiota in older women, a group that may benefit from the physiological benefits of higher protein intake.

Support or Funding Information

Lallemand Health Solutions; University of Florida
Longitudinal change in the diet's monetary value is associated with its change in quality and micronutrient adequacy among urban adults
Authors: Beydoun May A , Fanelli‐Kuczmarski Marie T , Poti Jennifer M. , Allen Alyssa , Beydoun Hind A , Evans Michele K , Zonderman Alan B
Published: November 2023

Background

Reducing diet costs may lead to the selection of energy‐dense foods, such as refined grains, foods high in added sugars and/or fats, which can lower overall dietary quality.

Objectives

We examined the longitudinal association between the monetary value of the diet (MVD) and the overall dietary quality across sex, race and income groups.

Design

We used longitudinal data from 1,466 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity Across the LifeSpan (HANDLS) urban adult participants. Healthy Eating Index–2010 (HEI–2010) and Mean Adequacy Ratio (MAR) were computed. A national food price database was used to estimate MVD. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted linking annual rates of change (Δ) in MVD to ΔHEI‐2010 and ΔMAR, stratifying by sex, race and income groups.

Results

ΔHEI‐2010 was comparable across socio‐demographic groups, while ΔMAR was higher among women and individuals above poverty. Adjusting for key covariates, ΔMVD was positively associated in both ΔHEI‐2010 and ΔMAR, and with a consistently stronger association among individuals above poverty, specifically for the total proteins and empty calories components of HEI‐2010 and several nutrient adequacy ratios (NARs: vitamins C, E, B‐6 and Zinc). ΔMVD‐ΔMAR association was stronger in women, mainly influenced by ΔMVD's positive associations with B‐vitamins, copper, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus NARs. ΔMVD‐Δvitamin D NAR's positive relationship was stronger among Whites, while ΔMVD‐Δvitamin B‐12 NAR's association was stronger among African‐Americans.

Conclusions

In sum, a potential increase in MVD may have a stronger impact on dietary quality among urban adult women and individuals living above the poverty threshold.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported entirely by the Intramural Research Program of the NIH, National Institute on Aging.
Association between emotional eating and overeating in Latinos
Authors: Lopez‐Cepero Andrea Alexandra , Frisard Christine , Lemon Stephenie , Rosal Milagros
Published: November 2023

Background

Latinos experience considerable disparities in obesity. Although causes of obesity are multifactorial, overeating is a major contributor. Emotional eating (EE) has been shown to be positively associated with obesity. However, the relationship between EE and overeating among Latinos has not been studied.

Objectives

To examine if EE is associated with overeating in a Latino sample and to evaluate if this relationship differs by sex.

Methods

A representative community sample of Latino individuals was recruited from a community health center in Lawrence, MA. EE was measured with the Three Factor Eating Behavior Questionnaire R18‐V2. Total caloric intake was measured with a culturally tailored Food Frequency Questionnaire. To calculate energy needs, the Mifflin‐St Jeor equation was used. Overeating was defined as having a total energy intake of 500 calories above the calculated energy need. Covariates considered included: education, employment, perceived stress, depression and Body Mass Index. Analysis included multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Participants with complete data (n=201, 53.7% female and 68.2% Dominicans) were included in this analysis. Overall, 45.3% of the sample experienced overeating. After adjusting for covariates, EE was positively associated with overeating; with a 52% increase in the odds of overeating for each unit increase in EE score (OR=1.52; 95%CI=1.04, 2.23; p=0.029). The relationship was not significantly different between men (OR=1.27; 95%CI=0.66, 2.43) and women (OR=1.72; 95%CI=1.04, 2.83; p=0.681).

Conclusion

EE was positively associated with overeating in both Latino men and women. Future studies should examine longitudinal associations between EE, overeating and obesity. Understanding these associations may provide valuable information for the development of effective interventions to prevent and manage obesity in high risk Latino populations.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by grants from the National Institute of Mental Health (R01 MH085653‐04), National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (5 P60 MD006912‐03), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (1 U48 DP005031‐01).
Maternal high fat diet significantly impacts milk miRNA and mRNA content of lactating mice
Authors: Chen Yulu , Yang Shiqi , Crodian Jennifer , Kuang Shihuan , Wang Junhui , Gribskov Michael , Plaut Karen , Casey Theresa M
Published: November 2023

Neonatal exposure to maternal high fat diet during lactation is associated with development of metabolic syndrome later in life. It is believed that the bioactive components in milk may be responsible for this phenomena. Bioactive components in milk that may be responsible for this are the abundant nucleic acids secreted within exosomes. Exosomal miRNAs circulating throughout body were found to change with nutritional state. We hypothesized that maternal high fat diet affects milk microRNA and mRNA content; and that microRNA and mRNA content in milk impacts offspring development. The objective of this study was to use next generation sequencing to determine the effect of maternal high fat diet on secreted milk transcriptome, specifically miRNA and mRNA expression. For this study, 4‐week old female ICR mice were matched by weight and divided into two treatment groups: control (C) and high fat (HF) diet. HF mice were fed diets with 60% kcal fat and control 10% kcal fat. After 4‐week on diets, mice were mated and were allowed to deliver their pups naturally. On post‐natal day 2 (PND2), litters were normalized to 10 pups and half the pups in each litter were cross‐fostered among treatments. Milk was collected from each dam on PND8, 10 and 12. On PND12 dams were euthanized and blood and milk were collected to measure protein, glucose and lactose. Total RNA was isolated from milk fat fraction of PND10 samples and used for mRNA‐seq and small RNA‐seq. Sequenced reads were aligned to the reference genome using Bowtie and Tophat. Cufflinks was used for transcript assembly, and DeSeq2 was used to analyze differential gene expression. Kilocalorie intake across the 4–weeks pre‐pregnancy was significantly greater (P<0.05) in HF(134.05±25.01kcal) versus C(95.18±8.52kcal) mice, and HF(34.0±4.2g) treatment weighed more than C(27.2±1.7g). However, weight was not different (P>0.05) between HF and C dams on PND2 (HF42.26±3.48g, C38.68±1.79g, respectively) or on PND12 (HF46.7±5.0g, C43.9±4.3g, respectively). Serum and milk percent protein and glucose were not different between C and HF. However, percent lactose was greater (P<0.05) in milk of HF(2.16±0.58%) versus C(1.26±0.41%) dams. Pup weight was significantly greater (P<0.05) in groups that suckled HF(6.68±0.91g) fed dams versus pups fed by C(5.06±0.68g) dams, regardless of biological dams. Differential abundance of a subset of miRNA and mRNA molecules were found in milk of HF versus C dams. These results show that maternal HF diet effects secreted milk transcriptome. If these nucleic acids maintain biological activity they have the potential to affect offspring development.

Support or Funding Information

AgSeed‐Agricultural Research and Extension Leading to Economic Development in Indiana Agriculture and Rural Communities
Nutrient Declarations and Nutritional Quality of Processed and Ultra‐processed Foods Sold in Guatemala
Authors: Alarcon‐Calderon Amarilys , Kroker‐Lobos Fernanda , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Ramirez‐Zea Manuel
Published: November 2023

Background

Obesity and high blood pressure are major risk factors for diet‐related chronic diseases (DRCD), such as diabetes, in Guatemala. High consumption of critical nutrients (energy, saturated fat, trans fat, total sugar, added sugar and sodium) is linked to DRCD. Guatemala's current food labelling regulation mandates nutrient declarations only if healthy or nutrient claims are made.

Objective

To assess, for the first time, the nutritional information available on packaged foods in Guatemala and to evaluate differences in the nutritional quality of processed (P) and ultra‐processed (UP) foods according to the Nutrient Profile model of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Methods

Two major supermarkets in Guatemala City were selected. All packaged foods (excluding baby foods, coffee, tea, sugar, herbs and spices) were photographed to extract nutritional information if available. Declaration of critical nutrients was determined. Nutritional quality was assessed according to the Nutrient Profile model of PAHO.

Results

We extracted nutritional information from 3463 food products. Out of these, 7% were classified as P, and 83% as UP. The remainder 10% were unprocessed/minimally processed foods or culinary ingredients. Energy content was not declared on 16% and 10% [p= 0.005]; total fat on 17% and 10% [p=0.001]; saturated fat on 25% and 15% [p<0.0001]; trans fat on58% and 48% [p=0.002]; total sugar on 39% and 26%; [p<0.0001] added sugar on 100% and 99% [p=0.214]; and sodium or salt on 17% and 11% [p=0.004] of P and UP products, respectively. Only 38% of P and 39% of UP foods had all the nutritional information required for classification with the PAHO nutrient profile model [p=0.720]. We found excessive amounts of at least one critical nutrient in and 84% of P and 89% of UP [p=0.219] and artificial sweeteners in 9% UP products. The food group with the lowest number of nutrient declarations was processed meat and meat products.

Conclusion

Both processed and ultra‐processed products contain excessive amounts of critical nutrients. Several critical nutrients associated with chronic diseases are not consistently reported in labels of processed and ultra‐processed foods in Guatemala. Nutritional information is limited, and the use of a nutrient profiling system to evaluate nutritional quality is difficult due to missing information. Current regulation concerning food labelling should be revised and enforced to improve the nutritional information available to consumers in order to create healthier food environments and to stimulate the food industry to reformulate their products towards healthier alternatives.

Support or Funding Information

International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada
Small servings of vegetables or a cruciferous supplement do not affect urinary estrogen metabolites in premenopausal women
Authors: Mondloch Stephanie , Muir Cassidy , Arscott Sara , Binkley Neil , Tanumihardjo Sherry A
Published: November 2023

Background

The ratio of urinary 2‐hydroxyestrone to 16‐α‐hydroxyestrone (2:16) is hypothesized as a potential biomarker of breast cancer risk in premenopausal women, with higher ratios theoretically protective. Cruciferous vegetable intake has been inconsistently associated with higher urinary 2:16.

Objective

We investigated whether or not a cruciferous vegetable supplement made from dried Brussels sprouts and kale, would increase the urinary 2:16 estrogen metabolite ratio in comparison to placebo or cruciferous vegetables in healthy premenopausal women.

Design

This registered (NCT01726127) parallel arm, placebo‐controlled, partly blinded study included 78 healthy premenopausal women (38–50 years) with screening urinary 2:16 ≤ 3.0 who were not using exogenous hormone treatment. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 1) Crucifer supplement 2) 40 g daily alternating broccoli or Brussels sprouts or 3) placebo daily for eight weeks. Urinary 2:16 was measured at baseline, four, and 8 weeks. Serum chemistries of progesterone, estradiol, estrone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle‐stimulating hormone were analyzed.

Results

Intent‐to‐treat repeated measures‐ANOVA identified no treatment effect on urinary 2:16 (P = 0.83) or treatment by time interaction (P = 0.79). Per‐protocol analyses including only complete cases found no significant treatment by time interaction (P = 0.63) and restricting the analysis to subjects with minimum 80% verifiable compliance to treatment found similar results (Ptreatment = 0.90 Pinteraction = 0.86).

Conclusions

Neither the crucifer supplement nor a small serving of cruciferous vegetables significantly altered the urinary 2:16 estrogen metabolite ratio in healthy premenopausal women.

Support or Funding Information

This project was funded by Standard Process, Inc. (Palmyra, WI).
Improvement of memory impairment by Aqueous extract of Asparagus officinalis L. is related to change of intestinal microflora in mice
Authors: Sun Jin , Sui Zi‐Fang , Qi Ce , Huang Yunxiang , Xiao Hang
Published: November 2023

The occurrence of dementia and age related brain disorder is dramatically on the rise as life expectancy likewise increases. there has been increasing interest in functional food, which are often perceived as a more ‘natural’ and ‘soft’ intervention compared to synthetic drugs. It was found alcohol extract of Asparagus officinalis L. showed effect on prevention of brain disorders. Aqueous extract of Asparagus officinalis L. stem (AEAS) is rich in soluble dietary fiber, tryptophan and flavonoids. Its function on brain was not known. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of AEAS on improving learning and memory behavior in scopolamine induced amnesia model. Male ICR mice were divided into 5 groups (n=10 per group): control group (CT), scopolamine group (SC), low (100 ml/kg body weight), middle (500 ml/kg body weight) and high dose (1000ml/kg body weight) of AEAS lavage (LS, MS and HS, respectively). After 4 weeks of feeding, scopolamine was used as a short‐term memory impairment in mice 30 min before animal behavior experiments (Openfield, New Object Recognition, Y‐maze, Morris Water Maze). In the period, intestinal microflora was harvested from mouse feces and analyzed using high‐throughput sequencing technology for bacterial composition. Results showed that middle dose of AEAS significantly reversed scopolamine induced cognitive impairments in ICR mice by the New object recognition test and the Y‐maze test (P<0.05), and also improved escape latency in the Morris water maze test (P<0.05). CT, SC and MS group had significantly different bacterial genus (PCA analysis). Gut microbiota of all groups mainly was composed by Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. Compared with other groups MS increased the relative abundance of Verrucomicrobia and Saccharibacteria in phylum. At the genus level, MS increased the proportion of bacteria especially Lachnospiraceae_UCG‐006 and Parabacteroides. These two bacterial genus may be related to the memory impairment function of AEAS.