bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Otoconia Development and Clinical Translation
Authors: Lundberg Yesha
Published: November 2023

Otoconia are bio‐crystals which overlay the sensory epithelium of the utricle and saccule in the inner ear. The crystals couple mechanic forces to the sensory hair cells in these endorgans, a process essential for us to sense linear acceleration and gravity for the purpose of maintaining bodily balance. Otoconia abnormalities are common and can cause vertigo and imbalance in humans. However, the molecular etiology of these illnesses is unknown, as investigators only began to identify genes important for otoconia formation in recent years. This presentation will summarize recent findings, especially those in the presenter's laboratory. While continued efforts are needed to thoroughly understand the molecular mechanisms underlying otoconia development, it is clear that the process involves a series of temporally and spatially specific events that are tightly coordinated by numerous proteins. Such knowledge will serve as the foundation to uncover the molecular causes of otoconia‐related disorders in humans.

Support or Funding Information

NIH R01DC008603 and P20RR0187888
Impact of a Comprehensive Nutrition Program on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Practices among Children aged 6 to <24 Months in Rural Malawi
Authors: Hurley Kristen M , Kang Yunhee , Monclus Assumpta Bou , Ruel‐Bergeron Julie , Oemcke Rachel , Wu Lee Shu Fune , Mitra Maithilee , Phuka John , Christian Parul
Published: November 2023

Given the high prevalence of child stunting, the Government of Malawi, with technical support from the World Food Program, launched a large scale comprehensive nutrition program that provides daily LNS to children 6 to <24 months of age and a behavior change communications (BCC) package promoting optimal breastfeeding, meal frequency, and dietary diversity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the one‐year program impact on caregivers’ IYCF practices in Malawi. The study design was quasi‐experimental with one program district and one comparison district. The program impact was measured using cross‐sectional baseline (January‐March, 2014; n=2,364) and midline (January‐March, 2015; n=2,361) survey data. Estimates of impact over one year were generated using Difference in Difference (DID) and Kernel Propensity Score Matching Difference‐in‐Differences (PSM‐DID) analyses using both baseline and midline data in both districts. Dietary diversity remained low at midline with 83.5% of children across both districts not consuming home foods from 4 or more food groups (out of a possible 7) in the past 24 hours. However, improvements in dietary diversity scores (DDS) trended towards being greater in the program district, as compared to the comparison district (p=0.07). Assuming that the nutrient‐density of the LNS was similar to animal meat, the addition of LNS consumption to the DDS increased it by 0.43‐points (p<0.001), and led to a 7.1% improvement in minimum dietary diversity (MDD) and Minimum Adequate Diet (MAD) in the program district as compared to the comparison district (both p<0.05). These results were attenuated in the PSM‐DID analysis with only differences in the DDS including LNS consumption remaining significant (0.4, p<0.05). The frequency of continued breastfeeding and optimal meal frequency were high at midline and did not differ across districts (p>0.05). Some benefits to IYCF practices were found, especially when LNS was included in the DDS calculation. These findings suggest that in the presence of high food insecurity, IYCF messaging and even high knowledge (which appears to exist in both districts) may be ineffective at improving dietary diversity in infants and young children without the provision of a supplemental food.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by Children's Investment Fund Foundation, UK.
Effect of Antioxidants on Vitamins A, E and Carotenoid Stability in Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Arredondo Francisco X , Craft Neal E
Published: November 2023

Dry blood spot (DBS) collection offers a more practical alternative to serum collection, particularly in remote areas where cold storage is not possible. Unfortunately, many analytes, such as retinol and α‐tocopherol, are sensitive to rapid oxidation as the DBS ages on the card resulting in inaccurate measurements. One report indicated that, from day one post‐collection, retinol values can drop up to 25% and α‐tocopherol up to 50%. (Granado, et al. Quimica Clinica 23:121, 2004). Pretreatment of DBS cards with 0.5% sodium ascorbate as an antioxidant improved the recovery of α‐tocopherol during a single determination in several individuals. (Montalvo‐Velarde et al. Rev. Centro de Inv. (Mex) 7:33, 2006).

Objective

To investigate the use of DBS cards pretreated with non‐phenolic and phenolic antioxidants on the stability of vitamin A, α‐tocopherol, and carotenoids eluted at different times.

Methods

Sodium ascorbate (SA) and ascorbyl palmitate (AP) were the non‐phenolic antioxidants; butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), 2–6, diterbutyl‐4‐methylphenol (BHT) and terbutyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) were used as phenolic antioxidants. Concentrations ranged from 0.005 to 0.5 % in the treatment solutions. What man 903 Protein‐Saver cards were saturated with the indicated antioxidants and allowed to dry overnight. Cards were spotted with 65 μL of blood collected in sodium heparin from a healthy volunteer.

DBS retinol, α‐tocopherol, and carotenoids were estimated via reversed‐phase HPLC at 11, 24, 31, and 64 days post‐collection and storage at −20°C. Matching frozen plasma was processed for reference at each time the DBS were examined.

Results

DBS retinol had stabilized by day 11 with recoveries from 60 to 73 % compared to the liquid plasma values. BHA in the pretreatment solution at 0.05% provided the highest retinol recovery at 73.6% and remained stable through day 64. By day‐11, α‐tocopherol values were between 65–80% of those found in liquid plasma. TBHQ at 0.5% in the pretreatment solutions limited oxidation to a 12% drop from day‐11 compared with day 64. This represents a substantial improvement compared to the 50% drop reported by Granado et. al. Lute in was 72–93% of plasma content by Day‐11 and still above 76% in 0.5% TBHQ by Day‐64. β‐carotene had declined to 33–52% of plasma levels by Day‐11. The highest recovery was 28.4% in 0.5% TBHQ. Interestingly, the least % decrease from Day‐11 to Day‐64 for all analytes was observed for AP. Retinol, α‐tocopherol, and carotenoids in liquid plasma remained stable throughout the study.

Conclusions

The results indicate that incorporation of antioxidants into the DBS collection cards improved the recovery of retinol, α‐tocopherol and carotenoids. TBHQ was the most effective antioxidant overall, but AP minimized the % losses from Day‐11 to Day‐64. It is probable that antioxidant treatment of collection cards would be beneficial for other analytes.
Predication of Glycemic Response of Extruded Pulse Products Using In Vitro Analysis
Authors: Thandapilly Sijo Joseph , Mollard Rebecca , Curran Julianne , Bouchard Danielle R , Jones Peter , Ames Nancy
Published: November 2023

Whole pulses have been extensively studied for their favourable effects on post‐prandial glycemic control in several acute human studies. Despite the large body of evidence showing the glycemic control benefits of pulse flours and fractions, the optimal dose and combination of pulse flours and fractions that should be integrated into commercial products is unknown. Moreover, the impact of processing, such as extrusion, on glycemic response of pulse products has not been thoroughly examined. Accordingly, the current study used an in vitro model to predict the glycemic response of various pulse products, in order to identify potential formulations for human acute feeding trials. Test products comprised of pulse flours (pea, lentil, bean, chickpea) incorporated into extruded snack products at a rate of 40% (replacing corn ingredients). Pea fractions were added to extruded breakfast cereals both as individual ingredients (fibre vs. protein vs. starch) and in different combinations (e.g. fibre + protein; protein + starch; starch + fibre). Current study results showed that addition of pulse flours into extruded corn snacks led to a lower in vitro glucose release (g glucose/100g sample) over 360 min compared to an all‐corn extruded snack. While, combinations of fractions (fibre + protein and fibre + protein + starch) incorporated into extruded oat cereal had lower in vitro glucose release (g glucose/100g sample) over 360 min compared to all‐oat cereal. Analysis of raw material versus processed products showed that processing methods increased the level of starch damage and in vitro glycemic release. In summary, current study results indicate that incorporation of pulse flour or fractions into commercially processed food products will help to improve the glycemic profile of the products. This study results will aid in choosing the right pulse products for human clinical trials based on their in vitro response. Moreover, it will also provide processors with information on how processing influences the nutritional composition and the resulting glycemic response.

Support or Funding Information

Funding from Alberta Pulse Growers and Saskatchewan Pulse Growers
Coordination of Classroom Nutrition Education with School Nutrition Services Programs in California Schools
Authors: Jones Anna M , Briggs Marilyn , Pitchford Julie Boarer , Zidenberg‐Cherr Sheri
Published: November 2023

The objective of this research was to determine the extent to which school nutrition services personnel provide nutrition education to students, and whether they coordinate with classroom education. A web link to the Nutrition Education Survey was sent to all School Nutrition Programs listserv subscribers, which is maintained by the California Department of Education. The survey received 612 responses, all of which were from individuals employed in programs participating in the National School Lunch Program. The average respondent was a school nutrition director in a district with less than 2,500 students and a free and reduced price eligibility of 75 to 100 percent. The majority of respondents agreed that nutrition education was not a part of their job description or duties (59%), however 72% indicated that the nutrition services program is involved in nutrition education in the school or district. School nutrition staff provided informal nutrition education in the lunchrooms of 63% of respondent districts. Coordination of school lunch with classroom nutrition education occurred in almost half of respondent districts (48%), and more than half of respondents agreed that classroom nutrition education is consistent with the food served in the school meals programs (64%). Approximately half of respondents collaborated with teachers in providing nutrition education (54%). Support from teachers, staff, or outside experts occurred in 60% of respondent districts. In summary, while involvement of school nutrition programs in nutrition education was reported by a majority of respondents, only half of respondents are coordinating or collaborating with teachers in providing nutrition education. This indicates opportunities exist to expand coordinated, school‐wide nutrition education programs.

Support or Funding Information

Funding for this study was provided, in part, by the California Department of Education.
Validation of two brief questionnaires designed to assess fruit and vegetable intake among 3rd–5th grade SNAP‐Ed participants
Authors: Zhang Youjie , Hurtado Ghaffar , Reicks Marla
Published: November 2023

Reliable, valid and easy‐to‐implement tools are needed to monitor behavior change among youth SNAP‐Ed participants. The Food Web questionnaire (FWQ) and the Plate Activity questionnaire (PAQ) are two brief instruments designed to assess fruit and vegetable intake among 3rd–5th grade children. Children were asked to write eight foods that they ate yesterday in the FWQ and to indicate the proportion of their dinner plate covered with fruits and vegetables the previous night in the PAQ. To examine test‐retest reliability, children (n=27) completed the FWQ and PAQ on two occasions, one week apart. Children also took photos of their dinner plate on both occasions. Wilcoxon signed‐rank test showed that the numbers of total foods, fruits and vegetables and the PAQ scores remained stable between test‐1 and test‐2, respectively. To determine convergent validity, children (n=65) completed the FWQ and PAQ followed by an interviewer‐administered 24 hour dietary recall (24HR). Although Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests didn't show significant differences in terms of counts of fruits and vegetables between the FWQ and 24HR, the match rates of fruit and vegetable items were relatively low (38.3% and 41.3%, respectively) and the omission and intrusion rates were relatively high (38.3% and 23.4%, and 38.7% and 20.0%, respectively). Pearson correlation analysis showed a positive relationship between the PAQ scores and 24HR dinner fruit and vegetable servings (r=0.31, p<0.001). However, fruit and vegetable intake at dinner was not significantly different by PAQ scores (F (4, 60) =2.25, p=0.074). Of the 36 cases of researcher‐assigned PAQ scores based on dinner plate photos taken by the participants, only 1/3 of participants’ scores matched researcher‐assigned scores, with more overestimations than underestimations (42% vs 25%). In conclusion, test‐retest reliability was acceptable for the FWQ and the PAQ, but convergent validity was questionable within the current sample. Revisions of the questionnaires may be necessary to improve convergent validity.

Support or Funding Information

University of Minnesota Extension SNAP‐Ed
Menu Labeling: Coming to a Neighborhood Near You&[hellip]or is it?
Authors: Green Jessie Erin , DeWeese Robin , Lorts Cori , Ohri‐Vachaspati Punam
Published: November 2023

Starting December 1, 2016, restaurants with 20 or more locations nation‐wide will be required to post calorie information on menus and menu boards. The goals of menu labeling are to increase awareness and to help patrons make healthier decisions when eating out, as consumers and nutrition professionals alike have trouble estimating the calorie content of away‐from‐home meals. The purpose of this study is to determine the proportion of restaurants that will be impacted by the new menu labeling regulations in four urban cities in New Jersey. Secondly, this study aims to determine if certain neighborhoods are more likely to be impacted by the national menu labeling mandate, based on neighborhood sociodemographics, including median household income, number of households with children under the age of 18, and race and ethnicity characteristics. Geocoded data on locations of restaurant outlets in each of the four New Jersey cities was obtained from InfoUSA and classified using a standard protocol developed for a NIH‐funded study. A list of the Top 100 Chain Restaurants from a published Technomic, Inc. report and store locater features available on restaurant webpages were used to determine menu labeling eligibility for each restaurant. In accordance with the FDA's guidelines for retail establishments, restaurants that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations, doing business under the same name, and offering substantially the same menu items were identified as menu labeling establishments, coded as 1 (vs. 0 for others). Neighborhood characteristics were obtained using census tract data from the American Community Survey. The final analysis included 1,761 restaurants located in 267 census tracts. Over 80% of restaurants were classified as a single location, meaning they will not be impacted by the new menu labeling mandate. Fifty‐one percent of included tracts have a median household income below 185% of the federal poverty line for a family of 4; the majority (greater than 50%) of residents over the age of 25 have only a high school degree or less in 69% of census tracts; 21%, 37%, and 18% of tracts are majority Hispanic, non‐Hispanic black, and non‐Hispanic white, respectively. Chi‐squared tests will be used to determine differences in the proportion of restaurants that will be impacted by menu labeling by census tract. Logistic regression models will determine the odds of being exposed to menu labeling for census tracts with different neighborhood characteristics. Results from this study can be used to determine how exposure to menu labeling may vary depending on the type of neighborhood in which an individual works or resides.

Support or Funding Information

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Via Instant Coffee Enhances The Stretch Reflex During Bench Pressing
Authors: Slack Grant , White Jesse , Feucht Alison , Stepp Stephanie , Hosier Derek , Wise Amanda , Mohney Sean , Lowery Lonnie
Published: November 2023

Coffee is widely consumed worldwide, exercisers included. The purpose of this investigation was to follow up on earlier work from our laboratory that demonstrated coffee's ergogenic effects on strict bench pressing. In particular, the current focus was on bench press exercise that invokes the stretch reflex. Activation of intrafusal muscle fibers, and its subsequent spinal reflex, enhances muscular performance. Little is known, however, about the effects of caffeine or coffee on this type of exercise. Previous animal research suggests a role for catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine) in the stretch reflex (Commissiong, 1974) and coffee is known to increase catecholamine production.(Graham, 1998) Thus we hypothesized that coffee would enhance reflexive bench pressing (i.e. pressing preceded by prior stretch). In a double blind, placebo controlled, crossover design, 34 college‐ aged men and women with prior barbell experience were given two packets of Via instant coffee (VIA) or identical decaffeinated coffee (DCF) followed by a standardized exercise protocol. As part of the protocol, subjects underwent a standard warm up, followed by three self‐selected, maximal effort repetitions in the Smith bench press. These repetitions resulted in robustly increased force production and reduced time to peak power compared to non‐reflexive paused repetitions, suggesting our ability to detect stretch reflex enhancement.(Force 723.6 ± 386.9 vs. 562.7 ± 304.7 N, p < 0.000000; Time to Peak Power 0.267 ± 0.107 vs. 0.353 ± 0.083 s, p = 0.000004). Having established our capacity to measure the stretch reflex, we found VIA to enhance four performance variables compared to DCF (Force 759.1 ± 437.2 vs. 723.6 ± 386.9 N, p = 0.08 [trend]; Time to Peak Power 0.248 ± 0.10 vs. 0.267 ± 0.10 s, p = 0.07 [trend], Power 517.4 ± 292.8 vs. 465.5 ± 253.4 W, p = 0.00004; Velocity 1.12 ± 0.15 vs. 1.04 ± 0.16 m/s, p < 0.000000.) We conclude within the parameters of this research design that VIA enhances reflexive bench press performance. Future research should examine the interaction of VIA and DCF on reflexive‐ and paused, non‐reflexive bench pressing.
Coffee But Not Anticipation of Coffee Alters the Outcome of Explosive Bench Pressing
Authors: Smith Bridget , Feucht Alison , Slack Grant , Rogers Jacob , LaRock Frank , Mendel Ronald , Lowery Lonnie
Published: November 2023

When administering a drug, the degree of anticipation influences perceptual outcomes in migraine research (Slavenka Kam‐Hansen, 2014). Specifically, pain scores vary depending on the information given (percent anticipation). Little is known, however, to what extent anticipation affects physical performance. Often, coffee and caffeine research include a 50% anticipation in the form of experimental beverage or placebo. Few coffee studies, though, also include a true control such as water. The purpose of this study was to compare a highly‐caffeinated instant coffee (VIA) to both an identical decaffeinated placebo (DCF) and to water (WTR). This provides the typical 50% anticipation comparison and a 0% anticipation true control. We hypothesized that VIA would increase explosive performance compared to both DCF (50% anticipation) and to WTR (0% anticipation). Further, we hypothesized that DCF (50% anticipation) would increase performance and psychostimulant variables compared to WTR (0% anticipation). Ten resistance‐trained participants with varied levels of coffee habituation were tested at 50% of one‐repetition maximum (1RM) in the Smith bench press 60 minutes after ingesting 20 oz. (2 packets) VIA, DCF, or WTR. Force, bar velocity (VEL), power (POW), rate of force development (RFD) and time to peak power (TPP) were measured using the Smith bench press and a Ballistic Measurement System (BMS, Innervations, Inc., South Australia). Psychostimulant testing included Likert‐type (1–5 scale) ratings of alertness, focus and energy. After repeated measures analysis of variance and Newman‐Keuls post hoc testing, VEL and POW increased after consuming VIA versus DCF or WTR (mean ± SE: 1.15 ± 0.05 m/s vs. 0.99 ± 0.05 m/s and 1.01 ± 0.05 m/s; p=0.004 and p=0.005, respectively and 561.1 ± 109.4 W vs. 482.2 ± 92.4 W and 465.4 ± 84.7 W; p=0.009 and p=0.007 respectively). No performance differences were noted between DCF and WTR. Upon psychostimulant analysis, VIA increased alertness compared to DCF and WTR (4.22 ± 0.22 vs. 3.44 ± 0.29 and 2.94 ± 0.34; p=0.006 and p=0.0004 respectively). There was a trend for DCF to increase alertness versus WTR (3.44 ± 0.29 vs. 2.94 ± 0.34; p=0.06). Within the limitations of this design, we conclude that our hypothesis regarding VIA and physical performance was supported but the hypothesis involving anticipation of DCF largely was not. DCF had no effect on explosive physical performance but did tend to affect perception of alertness.
Astaxanthin‐rich green alga Haematococcus pluvialis enhanced extreme endurance performance and improved heart rate recovery in exercised rats
Authors: Yamashita Eiji , Lin Hsinying , Narducci Merco
Published: November 2023

Astaxanthin has been known to enhance muscle endurance and limit muscle damage in exercised human and models. However, there is no study on heart rate recovery (HRR). Here we examined the effects of astaxanthin‐rich green alga Haematococcus pluvialis on extreme endurance performance and HRR in exercised rats. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups of 6 rats; control (olive oil), low dose (LD, 1 g dry algae meal (50 mg astaxanthin)) and high dose (HD, 2 g dry algae meal (100 mg astaxanthin)). After 3 weeks of the acclimation period, 15 good runners were selected and implanted with a subcutaneous heart rate monitor for continuous heart rate recording. Starting on Day 1 of the study, the rats received the targeted dose orally by a daily gavage. The rats ran on a treadmill twice a week for 4 weeks; 15 minutes running ‐ 7 minutes rest ‐ 15 minutes running at 30 m/min, with a final sprint of 1 min at 40 m/min for the first running day of the week with a 5° slope. As the results, HRR time in the supplemented groups was significantly decreased compared to the control. Especially early phases of HRR, to 30% of resting values, were achieved fastest with LD. Also heart rate deflection point in the supplemented groups tended to be prolonged during intermittent extreme endurance conditions compared to the control. Furthermore maximal sprinting force was also significantly improved in the supplemented groups. Dose dependent effect was not found.
Carbohydrate+Protein Ingestion Influences Recovery Following a Marathon Run
Authors: Saunders Michael J , DeWitt Cash R , Gross Melinda C , Rios Amanda Dillon , Greever Cory J , Murach Kevin A , Wineland Seth Y , Baur Daniel A , Luden Nicholas D
Published: November 2023

The present study examined the effects of carbohydrate+protein (CP) ingestion, and the timing of intake (during exercise or immediately post‐exercise), on recovery following a marathon run (42.2 km). Ratings of physical/mental energy and fatigue, muscle soreness, and plasma CK levels were assessed prior to a marathon, and 24‐hr and 72‐hr following the run. In an initial study, changes in these variables were compared between subjects receiving CP intake throughout the marathon (CPDuring, n = 8) versus those receiving carbohydrate alone (CHODuring, n = 8). In a second study, all subjects consumed CHO during a marathon run, with one group consuming CP immediately following exercise (CPPost, N = 4), while a comparison group consumed CHO (CHOPost, N = 4). Changes in dependent measures between time‐points are reported (i.e. 72 hr value – pre‐exercise value, mean±SD), along with magnitude‐based inferences for the differences in these change‐scores between treatments. No meaningful treatment differences were observed for any of the recovery variables at 24‐hr (unclear). However, recovery at 72‐hr was improved with CPDuring versus CHODuring for Physical Energy (5 ± 21 vs −25 ± 23 mm, likely), Mental Fatigue (−18 ± 20 vs 0 ± 4 mm, likely), and SorenessDescending stairs (15 ± 9 vs 21 ± 17 mm, likely). Similarly, recovery at 72‐hr was improved with CPPost versus CHOPost for Physical Fatigue (−52 ± 88 vs. 100 ± 88 mm, very likely), Mental Energy (36 ± 27 vs −62 ± 79 mm, very likely), SorenessSitting (1 ± 2 vs 27 ± 26 mm, very likely) and SorenessAscending stairs (5 ± 12 vs 37 ± 19 mm, likely). Thus, protein supplementation had no clear effects on post‐marathon recovery during the initial 24 hours following exercise, but enhanced various markers of physical/mental energy and fatigue and muscle soreness over 72 hours. Improvements in recovery markers were noted when CP was consumed either during the marathon run, or immediately following exercise.
The association between dietary diversity score and iron deficiency anemia among reproductive‐aged women in Ghana
Authors: Kubuga Clement , Lee Kyungwon , Song Sujin , Song Won O
Published: November 2023

A dietary diversity score (DDS) is often used as a proxy for diet quality but little is known on its association with nutrients status, such as iron deficiency anemia in Ghana. This is needed to help curb the high prevalence of micronutrients deficiencies. The aim of this study was to examine the association between DDS and iron deficiency anemia among reproductive‐aged women in Ghana. We hypothesized that women's dietary diversity score is positively associated with blood hemoglobin level and inversely associated with the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia. The 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey dataset was analyzed to test our hypotheses. From the data set, 1,216 women who were aged 15–49 years and had complete data on both food group intake and blood hemoglobin values were included in the data analyses. The DDS was calculated based on the data from women's 24hr recall about 15 food groups consumption. Hemoglobin was measured in grams per deciliter using the HemoCue testing system. Iron deficiency anemia was defined as having a hemoglobin level less than 11.9g/dl. Detailed classification of iron deficiency anemia included: severe (HB < 7.0g/dl), moderate (HB: 7.1 – 9.9g/dl), and mild (HB: 10 – 10.9g/dl for pregnant women, 10 – 11.9g/dl for nonpregnant). Correlation analysis was used to find the relationship between DDS and hemoglobin level and logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between DDS and the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia. Women's education level and household wealth index were positively associated with their DDS (p‐value < 0.001). Between consumers and non‐consumers of each of the six food groups, there was a significant difference in DDS (all p‐values < 0.001). The DDS was positively correlated with hemoglobin level (correlation coefficient = 0.08, p‐value = 0.007). However, no significant association between DDS and the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia was observed. DDS is associated with hemoglobin levels but has no significant association with anemia among Ghanaian women. This might be partly due to not catering for individual foods effects. It is thus suggested that future researches should explore dietary patterns and nutrients status among reproductive‐age women in Ghana.
My Grandmother's Pot: Caribbean Immigrant Cooking Skills and Dietary Acculturation
Authors: Horlyck‐Romanovsky Margrethe Frost , Russell Kate , Yeh Ming‐Chin
Published: November 2023

Immigrant children who grow up in New York City often express strong connection to the cultural food practices associated with their parents’ or grandparents’ country or culture of origin yet often lament that they are unable to cook the signature dishes of their childhood and youth that are part of their cultural identity. The Caribbean Immigrant Cooking Skills and Acculturation project seeks to understand the process of dietary acculturation as it relates specifically to behaviors and decisions around cooking/cooking skills, shopping, and eating, and how these might be associated with health outcomes in adult Black Caribbean immigrants from English speaking countries and their children and/or grandchildren living in New York City.

Black Caribbean immigrants are less likely than other immigrant groups to experience negative effects of dietary acculturation such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension, however, their children do not benefit from this protective effect. In‐depth interviews are used to fully understand the underlying mechanisms, social behaviors, norms and decision processes of the dietary acculturation in this population.

Results

The initial phase of the study has shown that Black Caribbean immigrant families, as might be expected, prioritize formal education over life skills transfer, however, equally significant were a number of factors including: matriarchs who retained control of cultural heritage in a new country; a difference in perception (US vs. country of origin) of whether cooking is “safe” for children to be involved in; smaller family size; the false perception that cooking is something one has to be “taught”; and the younger immigrants’ desire to become enculturated in the US.

Conclusion

Dietary acculturation is a desired process in younger immigrant generations, a process which deteriorates their diet and jeopardizes future health, and a process which appears to be accelerating. Retention of culture of origin is desired by adult immigrants; however, given the changes in family dynamics, the rupture of social roles and social support associated with migration, as well as the fact that skills, knowledge and social norms from the country of origin are not passed down to younger generations, further exacerbate the effects of acculturation. Recommendations include community based participatory program development facilitating inter‐generational cultural skills and knowledge exchange, such as communal cooking classes and oral history projects exploring and validating the immigrant experience. These could facilitate amelioration of some of the challenges and health outcomes faced by immigrants and their families.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by a grant from the Doctoral Student Research Grant program at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York.
Assess the Prevalence of Nutrition Related Diseases and Risk factors for Chronic Diseases in Mamfe Subdivision in Cameroon
Authors: Besong Samuel Ayuk , Agbo Peter , Assam Anne Assam , Assam Edward Egbe , Besong Besem Chu , Enoru Julius Oben
Published: November 2023

Reducing health disparity in rural communities is a major healthcare challenge for the Cameroon government in the 21st century. Malnutrition and risk factors for chronic diseases are under‐reported in Cameroon, especially in rural communities. Malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies are major causes of co‐morbidities, infection and premature deaths in rural communities in Cameroon. In December 18–21, 2013, MECA‐USA, Inc., and RAPHAS HANDS Foundation partnered with local health facilities and providers and conducted a medical mission to assess the nutritional status, nutrition related diseases, risk factors of chronic diseases and common diseases that affect the population in Mamfe subdivision, Cameroon. Application for the medical mission met the protocol for human subject protection and was approved by the Ministry of Health in Yaounde, Cameroon. MECA‐USA, Inc. and RAPHAS HANDS Foundation recruited 35 volunteer healthcare providers including physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, surgeons, laboratory technicians, nutritionist and logistic personnel for the 4 days medical mission that involved health screening, diagnoses, surgery, treatment and counseling. Laboratory tests were performed for blood glucose, malaria parasite, HIV and urinalysis. Surgery was performed for herniorrhaphy, herniotomy and lipoma excisions at the St. John's Health Center operated by the Catholic Diocese of Mamfe and the Regional District hospital in Mamfe. Publicity was performed via TV, radio and church announcements. The volunteers provided services and treatment to 1,520 patients. Malnutrition, gastritis and arthritis were observed among the elderly (65–80 years). Malaria, hypertension, non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and skin diseases were also common among the adult (46–64 years) population. The middle age group (21–45 years) had a high incidence of gastritis and sexually transmitted diseases. Respiratory tract infections, malnutrition and malaria were common among children and adolescence (5–15 years). In addition, patients were educated on the importance of good nutrition, moderate alcohol intake, good hygiene and exercise, as a way to help them manage diseases and improve health outcomes. Results from the medical outreach demonstrated the prevalence of preventable diseases and significant health disparity in rural communities in Cameroon.
SSB assessment in a Teaching Primary care clinic involving Family Practice residents: A feasibility study over three months
Authors: Nirmalraj Maya , Neme Jamil , Mathews Haley , Khandalavala Birgit
Published: November 2023

Background

More than one‐third of adults and 17% of youth in the United States are obese. The average caloric intake for Americans has increased by 150 to 300 calories per day over the last 30 years with roughly 50% of these calories come from liquids, mainly sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSB). Obesity is associated with increased risk of a number of adverse cardiovascular diseases that includes diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver, sleep apnea, PCOS and other health conditions. SSBs have been independently associated with many of these conditions. Research has shown that the chances of developing type 2 diabetes for those who consume SSBs regularly increases by 26%. Hence we proposed a feasibility study in a high risk population to assess the current consumption of beverages in a Family Medicine Clinic at an academic medical center in Omaha Nebraska. The BEVQ‐15 is a valid and reliable survey that estimates mean daily intake of a variety of beverages consumed.

Methods

Assessment of SSB in the clinic can be accessed via various food frequency surveys. The BEVQ 15 was elected to be used as a tool due to brevity and being compatible with lower literacy levels up to the 4th grade level. Feasibility was determined to include acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality and adaptation.

Results

We collected 311 completed surveys over a three month period. Two research assistants approached patients in the patient room, proposed enrollment, to ensure privacy, and prior to arrival of the provider. Time required less than 5 minutes on average. There was no disruption in the flow of the clinic. Patients were highly receptive to the interaction.

Conclusion

Using the BEVQ – 15 to assess consumption of SSB in a teaching primary care clinic involving Family Practice residents was feasible. Further essential research and targeted intervention can be conducted in this high risk population.

Support or Funding Information

no support or funding was received
Dairy Foods: Current Evidence of their Effects on Bone, Cardiometabolic, Cognitive, and Digestive Health
Authors: Hess Julie , Jonnalagadda Satya , Slavin Joanne
Published: November 2023

Recent cross‐sectional and intervention studies on the associations of dairy food consumption with bone, cardiometabolic, cognitive, and digestive health show that dairy products have promise as health‐promoting foods for the prevention or amelioration of osteoporosis, sarcopenia, the metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and digestive ailments. Many of the mechanisms or specific components of dairy foods responsible for these associations remain unknown. However, some dairy food components, including micronutrient composition, high quality protein, bioactive peptides, prebiotics, probiotics, and the milk fat globule membrane, may contribute to the beneficial health effects. Due to its nutrient profile and the current evidence of its benefits, at least one daily serving of a dairy item is recommended by the dietary guidelines of several countries. Yet, even in the U.S., many individuals do not consume the recommended three cups of dairy foods a day. Given their unique nutrient profile as well as the ubiquity of chronic health problems around the world, with further nutrition science research and thoughtful formulations from the food industry, dairy and dairy‐derived components could be used to great advantage to support public health.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by research funding from Kerry, Beloit, WI.
Low‐fat Yogurt Consumption Reduces Markers of Chronic Inflammation in Apparently Healthy Lean and Obese Women
Authors: Pei Ruisong , DiMarco Diana , Putt Kelley , Martin Derek , Bruno Richard , Bolling Bradley
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to determine whether daily low‐fat yogurt consumption would reduce biomarkers of chronic inflammation by improving intestinal barrier function in apparently healthy lean and obese women. Lean and obese women (18.5–27 vs. 30–40 kg/m2; n = 30/group) participated in a randomized, controlled study where they received 12 oz low‐fat yogurt (YL, yogurt lean; YO, yogurt obese) or soy pudding (CL, control lean; CO, control obese) daily for 9 wk while maintaining their usual energy intake. Plasma biomarkers of inflammation and intestinal barrier function were determined in the fasted state at wk 0, 3, 6, and 9. At baseline, obese participants had higher plasma lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP), LBP/soluble CD14 (sCD14) ratio, immunoglobulin M endotoxin‐core antibody (IgM EndoCAb), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and TNF‐α/soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor II (sTNF‐RII) ratio than lean participants. After 9 wk of yogurt consumption, YO biomarkers of chronic inflammation were lower than those at baseline: IL‐6 by 17%, hsCRP by 9%, TNF‐α by 7%, and TNF‐α/sTNF‐RII by 7%. Also, at 9 wk, plasma IgM EndoCAb, peripheral blood mononuclear cell mRNA expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 and nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor alpha increased by 5%, 20%, and 54% respectively in YO compared to those at 0 wk. YL also had decreased TNF‐α, TNF‐α/sTNF‐RII and increased IgM EndoCAb from baseline. Biomarkers of inflammation were unaffected in those receiving soy pudding regardless of obesity status. CO had an 11% increase in LBP/sCD14 ratio. Therefore, consumption of low‐fat yogurt for 9 weeks appears to improve intestinal barrier function and reduce fasting biomarkers of chronic inflammation in both lean and obese women.

Support or Funding Information

Dairy Research Institute
Body Composition Changes in Weight‐Stable Overweight and Obese Middle‐Aged Adults Who Performed Exercise Training For 36 Weeks Impact Indexes of Cardio‐Metabolic Health
Authors: Amankwaah Akua , Kim Jung Eun , Campbell Wayne
Published: November 2023

Background

Overweight and obese adults are encouraged to reduce body weight and perform exercise to improve health, but the impact of changes in body composition without changes in body weight on health are not established.

Purpose

This secondary analysis assessed the impact of changes in body composition on changes in cardio‐metabolic health indexes in overweight and obese middle‐aged adults who were body weight‐stable while participating in an exercise training program.

Methods

Men and women [n = 152; age 49 ± 8 y, body mass index 30.0 ± 2.7 kg/m2; means ± SEM] performed resistance exercises 2 d/wk and aerobic exercises 1 d/wk and consumed unrestricted diets along with 200 kcal supplements containing 0, 10, 20, 30 g whey protein twice daily for 36 wk. Body weight stability was defined as <5 % body weight change over 36 wk. Fasting‐state whole body composition variables, plasma glucose, insulin, and lipid‐lipoprotein profile, blood pressure, and waist circumference (WC) were measured pre‐ and post‐intervention. The homeostatic model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) and whole‐body (composite) insulin sensitivity index (ISI) were calculated. The ratio of lean mass to fat mass (LM:FM) was our primary proxy for body composition quality. Multiple linear regression model was primarily applied for data analysis and adjusted (age, sex, and pre‐intervention dependent variable) regression coefficients and 95 % confidence interval are reported.

Results

Whey protein supplementation did not influence body composition and cardio‐metabolic health indexes responses. Among all subjects, LM:FM increased from pre to post‐intervention. Changes (delta, Δ) in LM:FM were inversely associated with ΔWC (−9.11 (−14.5, −3.70), P = 0.001) and positively associated with ΔISI (6.66 (1.21, 12.1), P = 0.017) and Δ high density lipoprotein cholesterol (12.2 (−0.06, 24.5), P=0.051). There were no associations between ΔLM:FM and changes in blood pressure, glucose, insulin, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and HOMA‐IR.

Conclusion

Changes in body composition quality with body weight stability predicted changes in markers of central obesity, insulin sensitivity, and lipid‐lipoprotein profile. These results suggest that exercise‐related body composition changes may extend positive effects on some cardio‐metabolic health indexes in overweight and obese adults who performed exercise training while weight‐stable.

Support or Funding Information

Support: US Whey Protein Res Consort; NIH T32AG025671; NIH UL1TR001108; Purdue Ingest Behav Res Ctr
Acanthosis Nigricans: Relation to Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases among Jamaican Adolescents
Authors: Barrett Sheila C , Huffman Fatma , Campa Adrianna , Johnson Paulette , Magnus Marcia , Ragoobirsingh Dalip
Published: November 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been reported among Jamaican adolescents. Detection of Acanthosis Nigricans (AN), a dark line around the neck signifying insulin resistance and related to high body mass index (BMI), can serve as an early warning sign for T2D and CVD development. The objectives of the study were to examine the relationship between the presence of AN and the risk of developing T2D and CVD among Jamaican adolescents. A descriptive epidemiological cross‐sectional study of 276 Jamaican adolescents ages 14–19 years (15.6±1.2), selected from ten high schools on the island, participated. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), glycated hemoglobin (A1c), blood pressure (BP), BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), and presence of AN were examined. Spearman correlations of AN with the other seven risk factors were highly significant for six of these other risk factors (P<0.05) except for A1c (P=0.085). Females had significantly higher WC (p<0.041), and presence of AN (P<0.013), whereas, males had significantly higher FBG (P<0.039). Urban subjects had significantly higher BMI (P<0.018) and WC (P<0.021) than rural subjects. High total cholesterol was significant for subjects with lower income (P<0.039). The presence of AN classified more subjects at risk than did the other seven risk factors. Examining students for the presence of AN can be economically and easily performed within the schools. Over one third of the study subjects reported three or more risk factors for T2D and CVD which indicates early intervention measures are needed for this population.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by The Dissertation Year Fellowship and the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Florida International University
Long term exposure of Very High Fat Diet on Energy Intake, Hormones, Cellularity and Morphology of Tissues ‐ a Male Rodent Study
Authors: Chakraborty Sanjoy , Adhikari Debasis , Chakraborty Tandra R
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes associated with long term exposure to very high fat diet (VHFD) on body weight, levels of hormones, food intake, metabolism and cellular levels affecting beta cell mass of pancreas and adipocyte cell size in male mice. Male mice when fed with VHFD for 2 weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks showed significant increase in body weight which was proportional to saturated fat than the mice fed on normal diet (ND). There was a steep rise in body weight in animals fed on VHFD for 12 weeks which gradually plateaued within 24 weeks. The increase in body weight was much more drastic in VHFD than ND (ND: 15%, 21%, 6%; VHFD: 22%, 59%, 9%). Food intake was lower for VHFD than ND animals indicating that it was the quality of food not the quantity that caused the increase in body weight. Male mice on VHFD showed increased plasma glucose, leptin and insulin levels within 2 weeks. Animals were diabetic and developed leptin and insulin resistance within 3 months. Morphological and morphometric analysis of pancreatic and adipocytes showed increased islet size within 2 weeks and significant increase within 6 months. Parameters like changes in the hormonal level, food intake, pancreatic and adipocyte size were visible within 2 weeks but changes associated at the cellular levels like significant increase in the area were only observed after 6 months in VHFD animals. In conclusion, these results suggest that in diet induced obesity changes in hormonal levels and metabolism sets in much earlier than visible changes at the cellular level. All mechanism per se leptin and insulin resistance, increases in adiposity and islets size are probably a mechanism to overt diabetes. Longer term studies are required to understand the cellular changes and the underlying mechanism associated with it.