bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysregulation of V‐ATPase Function Impairs Lysosomal Acidification in a Mouse Model of a Rare Lysosomal Storage Disease, INCL
Authors: Bagh Maria B , Peng Shiyong , Chandra Goutam , Zhang Zhongjian , Mukherjee Anil B
Published: November 2023

Lysosomes are the major organelles for intracellular digestion. They contain >50 hydrolases that require acidic pH for optimal function. The acidification of the intracellular organelles, including the lysosome, is a fundamental biological process of pivotal importance to eukaryotic cells. Lysosomal acidification is regulated by v‐ATPase, a multi‐subunit protein, which is localized to the lysosomal membrane. The cytosolic V1‐sector hydrolyzes ATP generating energy for the membrane‐anchored V0‐sector, which imports protons from the cytoplasm to the lysosomal lumen for acidification. Lysosomal acidification is defective in virtually all lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) in which neurodegeration is a devastating manifestation and in common neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Although it is known that v‐ATPase maintains the endosomal/lysosomal acidic pH, the mechanism(s) underlying defective lysosomal acidification in these neurodegenerative disorders remains largely unknown.

Palmitoylation (also known as S‐acylation) is the only reversible lipid modification of proteins. In this process, a 16‐carbon fatty acid (predominantly palmitate) is attached to polypeptides via thioester linkage. Dynamic palmitoylation (palmitoylation‐depalmitoylation) regulates the function of many proteins, especially in the central nervous system. It requires the catalytic actions of palmitoyl‐acyltransferases (PATs), which catalyze palmitoylation and those of palmitoyl‐protein thioesterases (PPTs), which catalyze depalmitoylation respectively. Inactivating mutations in the CLN1 gene encoding palmitoyl‐protein thioesterase‐1 (PPT1), a lysosomal depalmitoylating enzyme, underlie a devastating neurodegenerative LSD, called infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL). Using Cln1−/− mice, which mimic INCL, as a model, we uncovered that dynamic palmitoylation of V0a1 subunit of v‐ATPase promotes its interaction with the adaptor proteins for trafficking from the ER (where it is synthesized) to the lysosomal membrane. Like a relay race, V0a1 is transferred from one adaptor to the other for its sequential transport from the ER‐Golgi to the lysosomes. In Cln1−/− mice, lack of Ppt1 causes mistargeting of V0a1 to the plasma membrane instead of the lysosomal membrane, dysregulating lysosomal acidification, which contributes to neuropathology. Our findings reveal an unanticipated role of Cln1/Ppt1 in regulating lysosomal acidification and suggest that varying factors suppressing v‐ATPase activity may contribute to pathogenesis of other LSDs and some common neurodegenerative diseases.

Support or Funding Information

Intramural program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Students’ Understandings of their Ethical Obligations to their Cadavers after their First Anatomy Lab: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fortunato John , Wasserman Jason , Hankin Mark
Published: November 2023

First year medical students completed video‐recorded reflections as an assignment for their ethics course. They were prompted to reflect on both their initial feelings as they started their first dissection and their ethical responsibilities to their cadavers. These reflections were analyzed using a schema akin to Grounded Theory, a qualitative methodology that allows data driven findings to systematically emerge from narrative data without specifying hypothesis in advance. This approach sheds light on themes related to complex social and emotional experiences that quantitative research methodologies (like surveys) have difficulty capturing because they necessarily reduce students’ holistic experiences to a narrower set of generalizable constructs measured with predetermined multiple‐choice options.

This research showed that initial reactions to first dissection tend to follow one of two patterns: Some students showed an initial sense of concern, worry, or uneasiness as they entered the cadaver lab and began the dissection. However, the technical aspects of dissection eased their concerns as time went on. In contrast, other students report being focused on the technical demands and learning objectives such that they had no reservations upon entering the lab or beginning the dissection. However, at some point later on, an awareness of cadaveric humanity and the gravity of donation came upon them. In regards to ethical obligations, a responsibility to “respect” the cadaver, though for various underlying reasons, was nearly unanimous amongst students. Additionally, an obligation to maintain donor privacy, an obligation to treat the cadaver “like a patient,” and reverence toward the donor's family members were among the more commonly referenced reasons for respect of the cadaver. Other commonly cited ethical responsibilities included a duty to be academically prepared for the anatomy dissection in an effort to learn as much as possible from the gift of cadaveric donation. These reported ethical obligations, when understood against the broader backdrop of a number of other potential ethical duties, suggests that students’ ethical relationship with the cadaver is developmental and could be encouraged in its growth and maturity.

This analysis of student narrative provides unique insight into the first‐year medical student's sense of ethical obligation and emotional response in the cadaver lab. Moving forward, anatomical sciences faculty can use this research in an effort to tailor the methodology in which they address medical students’ sensitivities and emotional awareness within anatomy programs.

Support or Funding Information

none
Measurement of branched chain amino acids (BCAA) in milks and protein supplements
Authors: Hubble Kyle , Swanson Derek , Keenan Kelly
Published: November 2023

The amount of money spent on nutritional supplements by Americans is in the billions per year. Protein supplements, which are often made from whey in milk, boast of high levels of BCAA. There are mixed results to suggest that BCAA play a role in muscle recovery but they remain a popular supplement. The goal of this project was to develop an undergraduate laboratory experiment in which levels of BCAA are measured in various milks and supplements. These milks and supplements were hydrolyzed to release the amino acids and BCAA were measured using the leucine dehydrogenase enzyme assay which specifically measures the sum of these three amino acids. In addition, the level of arginine was measured using the Sakaguchi assay. In order to confirm these results, the levels of these amino acids was tested using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP HPLC). It was necessary to quantify the BCAAs and the quality of the data was assessed by spiking the samples with one of the BCAA and measuring the % recovery. The results are consistent by both methods which demonstrates that the leucine dehydrogenase is a valid method to measure BCAA. While the protein levels for the supplements are similar to the claims of manufacturer's, the level of BCAAs are markedly lower. This experiment is a suitable undergraduate biochemistry project.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by an REU grant from Stockton University.
Engaging Medical Students in Amino Acid Metabolism Using a Flipped Classroom Approach
Authors: Clemons Tameka A
Published: November 2023

Matriculation of the inaugural class of Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine began in the fall of 2014. The medical 1 (M1) students take several integrated basic science courses during their first semester, which ends with a course in metabolics. In order to have more active learning in basic science courses a flipped classroom approach has been taken in Amino Acid Metabolism, which is an event in metabolics. A flipped classroom is a model that goes along with current educational practices that focus on improving learners understanding of material through active engagement. The focus of this presentation is on engaging learners in Amino Acid Metabolism. The details of the steps taken to turn the Amino Acid Metabolism lecture into a flipped classroom will be outlined. In addition, student feedback on the flipped classroom approach will be discussed.
Active learning in a flipped classroom: implementation and assessment
Authors: Barral Ana Maria , Ardi Veronica C
Published: November 2023

The inverted (“flipped”) classroom approach uses class time to discuss difficult topics, clarify misconceptions, and have students apply the concepts through active learning, the act of doing. Active learning approaches have shown to enhance learning of the sciences, particularly in biology. In a flipped classroom, lecture materials are given in recorded videos, allowing passive learning to take place outside the classroom. This study examined whether there was an increase in learning and retention in students who completed active learning activities in the classroom within a flipped classroom design, compared to the traditional lecture approach, in a General Biology for Majors course. From the course learning outcomes, we identified a number of basic biology concepts for assessment purposes.

To measure learning, pre‐ and post‐tests with 15–20 questions were administered to students. Questions in the tests were scored on the Bloom's Taxonomy scale by three independent researchers. The majority (93%) of the questions involved knowledge and comprehension, with approximately 33% of the questions also requiring higher cognitive skills such as application and analysis. The percent of correct responses was calculated for both flipped (n=2, 15–21 students per class) and control (n=2, 15–28 students per class) classrooms. The means of correct percentages were higher in students in the flipped classroom as compared to traditional classroom, with a statistically significant difference in the post‐test results. Students in the flipped classrooms performed better (mean = 58.3% correct) than those from the traditional classroom (mean = 33.0%) in the higher cognitive questions. Currently, we are deepening the assessment of student learning by using qualitative “Think Aloud” methodology to evaluate students’ application of concepts to problem solving. We also administered surveys to examine students’ perceptions of the study materials and in‐class activities. Most students (n=32) agreed that the videos and learning activities were helpful for their understanding of the material (3.97 and 4.09 on a Likert scale of 1–5, with 5 being most helpful). As for the individual in‐class activities, students overwhelmingly agreed that 1) they understood the concept better, 2) they believed the activities would help them retain the concepts in the future, 3) the activities sparked their interest in biology, and 4) the activities aided in critical thinking. The average response ranged between 4.00–4.67 for the 7 activities, using a 1–5 Likert scale with 5= strongly agree. Altogether these data suggest that students gain knowledge by active learning and flipped classroom.

Support or Funding Information

National University COLS Teaching Grant
Teaching a broad non‐science major audience using the science of food and cooking
Authors: Provost Joseph John , Kelly Brenda , Colabroy Keri , Wallert Mark
Published: November 2023

Capturing the interest and engaging non‐science students is a particularly important and a concomitantly challenging task. It is more important to show students how to use important concepts, teach them to think critically and to apply the scientific method than attempt to create chemists and biologists from non‐STEM students. Cooking is one of the oldest applications of biology and chemistry that can provide an interesting vehicle to attract students to science in a meaningful way. We have used this approach to teach from small to large lecture classes up to 200 students. Using a food‐centric approach basic biological and chemical principles are taught and retained with a high level of interest and self reported attitudes to science. Topics include making cheese, hot sauce and salsa, vegetables, breads, meat & fish and wine & beer. We will present the way science is woven into cooking, the active learning exercises and inquiry‐based take home experiential learning. Assessment of student learning and attitudes toward science from students in this course (n>425) will be presented. Finally, a proposed textbook supporting future similar courses will be shared.
Mentor‐Mentee Interaction and Laboratory Social Environment: Do They Matter in Doctoral Students’ Publication Productivity?
Authors: Ynalvez Marcus Antonius , Ynalvez Ruby , Ramirez Enrique
Published: November 2023

We explored the social shaping of science at the micro‐level reality of face‐to‐face interaction in one of the traditional places for scientific activities ‐‐ the scientific lab. We examined how doctoral students’ perception of their: (i) interaction with doctoral mentors (MMI), and (ii) lab social environment (LSE) influence productivity. Construed as the production of peer‐reviewed articles, we measured productivity using total number of articles (TOTAL) and number of articles in top journals (TJ). Face‐to‐face survey data were obtained from n=210 molecular biology Ph.D. students in selected universities in Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan. To summarize the original 13 MMI and 13 LSE semantic‐differential items that we used to measure students’ perceptions, a principal component (PC) analysis was performed. The result was a parsimonious set of 4 MMI PCs and 4 LSE PCs. To identify which PCs influenced publication counts, we performed a Poisson regression analysis. Although perceived MMI was not linked to productivity, perceived LSE was linked: Students who perceived their LSE as intellectually stimulating and as having privacy reported high levels of productivity. Our findings not only highlight how students’ perception of their training environment factors in the production of scientific output, they also carry implications for improving mentoring programs in science.

Support or Funding Information

National Science Foundation Social Behavioral and Economic Sciences (Award#0830109)
Improving undergraduate biochemistry curriculum using threshold concepts: an analysis of student understanding
Authors: Freese Samantha , James Kristen , Lewis Jennifer , Loertscher Jennifer , Minderhout Vicky
Published: November 2023

Threshold concepts (TCs) are concepts that, when mastered, represent a transformed understanding of a discipline without which the learner cannot progress. TCs have been identified in many fields with the goal of redesigning curricula to best benefit the learning of the student. Student data was collected for three of the five biochemistry TCs (steady state, the physical basis of interactions, and the thermodynamics of macromolecular structure formation). Responses were analyzed to determine ubiquitous and nuanced themes in student understanding. Integrative themes including electrostatic properties of molecules, entropic and enthalpic contributions, free‐energy, and kinetics of regulatory systems were investigated due to their importance in biochemistry learning. Our analysis reveals that students often exhibit limited understanding of these concepts, thus they lack the depth of knowledge to fully integrate ideas and apply them to varied biochemical contexts.

Support or Funding Information

NSF‐DUE‐1224868
Activatable COX‐2 Probes in Optical Imaging of Cancer
Authors: Uddin Md. Jashim , Crews Brenda C , Ghebreselasie Kebreab , Daniel Cristina K , Marnett Lawrence J.
Published: November 2023

Conventional imaging methods, such as angiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and radionuclide imaging, rely on contrast agents that are “always on”. A unique aspect of optical imaging is that fluorescent probes can be designed to be activatable, so that they are only “turned on” under certain conditions. Probes that are activatable and also accumulate in the tumor in a targeted fashion could be ideal for detection of superficial tumors or tumors that can be accessed by endoscopy. We developed fluorocoxib A, the 1st COX‐2 targeted optical imaging probe, which displayed a high degree of selectivity of uptake in the COX‐2‐positive tumors over COX‐2‐negative tumors. Having an established proof‐of‐concept compound for COX‐2‐targeted imaging, we sought to expand the applicability of this approach by designing activatable pro‐fluorescent nitroxide probes that are capable of visualization of cancer with high signal‐to‐noise ratios. We synthesized a series of nitroxide derivatives of fluorocoxib A and B, containing a carboxy‐X‐rhodamine (ROX) fluorophore closely linked to a TEMPO or PROXYL nitroxide moiety. These probes exhibited selective COX‐2 inhibition in purified enzymes and intact cells, and showed significantly reduced fluorescence due to efficient quenching of the excited electronic state of the fluorophore by the nitroxide radical. Upon radical trapping in cancer cells, these COX‐2‐targeted probes demonstrated enhanced fluorescent emission, making them effective in detecting COX‐2 in tumors in vivo. Thus, this novel strategy allows target‐specific delivery of quenched agents into tumor cells and subsequent on‐site fluorescence activation by radical trapping allowing selective visualization of tumor in vivo. This technology can be widely adapted for background free detection of inflammatory and neoplastic diseases in preclinical and clinical settings.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by research grants from the National Institutes of Health number CA89450 (LJM).
Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Curriculum for the New MCAT
Authors: Dobrydneva Yuliya , Schwartz Lisa
Published: November 2023

Students who aspire to enter medical school have to take an MCAT (Medical college admission test). Recently MCAT has been redesigned with a new set of curriculum objectives. New one‐year program “post‐baccalaureate premedical certificate” at the GWU School of Medicine and Health Sciences is created to answer the challenges of the new MCAT. Furthermore, the program prepares students for the medical school coursework, like biochemistry, histology, physiology and pharmacology. We designed an integrated curriculum as a succession of three 12‐week courses (Organic I and Organic II (with laboratory) and Biochemistry I) to teach the material required for the pre‐medical students. The objectives of these courses are closely aligned with MCAT objectives. Memorization and recall is not emphasized. Instead, students must be able to think critically and apply chemistry concepts in other areas. Thus, the emphasis is placed on examination of the structure, stability and function of (bio) molecules, methods of separation and structure determination and spectroscopy. Less emphasis is placed on organic synthesis and molecular transformations. An additional semesters’ worth of college‐level biochemistry is included in MCAT for the first time. Post‐bac biochemistry course incorporates flipped classroom technique and case studies in medical biochemistry. Early introduction of biochemical concepts is integrated into the organic chemistry course. Students develop set of skills that enables them to be prepared for the challenges of the new MCAT and will lay a foundation for the medical school coursework.
Dietary pattern with high dairy intake is associated with linear growth in Peruvian infants
Authors: Arsenault Joanne E , de Romaña Daniel Lopez , Penny Mary , Brown Kenneth H
Published: November 2023

Post‐natal linear growth faltering is a multi‐factorial process that is affected by children's diet and infectious exposures. Little research has documented how young children's dietary patterns are related to growth, so we reanalyzed previously collected data from young children in Trujillo, Peru to assess these relationships.

Dietary intakes of children 6–8 months of age at baseline were assessed prior to and at the mid‐point of a 6‐month zinc supplementation trial [Brown, et al. Am J Clin Nutr 2007].Food and breast milk intakes were assessed by direct observation and weighing for 1–2 days at each time. The intakes at the mid‐point when children were 9–11 months of age were used for these analyses, as all children were consuming complementary foods by this age. Dietary pattern factors, with energy from 14 food groups as inputs, were derived by principal components analysis with orthogonal transformation. Linear growth was assessed at baseline and 6‐months. A linear regression model with the change in length‐for‐age z‐score (DLAZ) as the outcome was used with all derived dietary factors entered as independent variables along with covariates including initial LAZ, age, gender, intervention group, low maternal height (<145 cm), persistent diarrhea episodes, an index of socioeconomic status, and total energy.

The mean DLAZ was −0.11 (0.41 SD).Five dietary patterns were derived that explained 54% of the variation in the intakes, with the greatest proportions of variation being explained by a ‘potato, meat, vegetable’ pattern (14%) and a ‘dairy’ pattern (12%).The dairy pattern score was positively associated with DLAZ (p=0.008). None of the other dietary patterns were significantly associated with DLAZ. Higher socioeconomic status was also associated with greater DLAZ (p=<0.0001). DLAZ was lower among children whose mothers had low height (p=0.03).

While breastfeeding throughout the first year of life is important for young children's healthy growth, the introduction of animal source foods, such as dairy products, to children's diets is important given their nutrient profile that includes high quality protein, bioavailable micronutrients and possibly other bioactive components that are essential for growth. The importance of dietary quality and the multiplicity of nutrient factors in foods should be recognized in efforts to reduce linear growth faltering globally.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grant # OPP1112895
Cord Blood FGF21 and Leptin as Candidate Biomarkers of Early Infant Linear Growth Velocity in a Low‐ Income Country
Authors: Hack Salma , Papp Eszter , Shi Joy , Dimitris Michelle , Bandsma Robert , Al Mahmud Abdulla , Roth Daniel
Published: November 2023

Background

Early detection of infant growth faltering may enable timely clinical management and allow for the identification of modifiable biological mechanisms. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and leptin regulate energy metabolism, and their circulating concentrations fluctuate in response to caloric intake. FGF21 increases during times of energy deprivation and leptin increases when satiated. We aimed to preliminarily assess cord blood FGF21 and leptin as potential biomarkers of early infant linear growth.

Methods

In a subset of healthy term infants (n=102) from an ongoing trial of maternal vitamin D supplementation in Dhaka, Bangladesh, cord serum concentrations of FGF21 and leptin were measured using commercial ELISA kits. Infant length was measured at birth and approximately 3 months of age; length‐for‐age z‐scores (LAZ) were derived according to WHO Child Growth Standards to account for sex and actual age at measurement. Conditional velocity (cV) was the infant's change in LAZ from birth to the 3‐month visit, accounting for regression to the mean. Unadjusted associations between cV and each biomarker were explored visually and estimated using linear regression.

Results

Mean (SD) LAZ was −1.32 (1.08) at birth and −1.00 (0.93) at 3 months. Median FGF21 and leptin were 18.74 pg/ml (n=94) and 6.59 ng/ml (n=98), respectively. Most FGF21 values (82/94) ranged from undetectable (set to 1.55 pg/mL = 1/2 lowest standard) to 50 pg/ml, and the cV‐FGF21 association appeared linear in this range. For each 10 pg/mL increase in FGF21 (from 0 to 50 pg/mL), cV decreased by 0.12 (95%CI: 0.00, 0.24; p=0.044). When FGF21 was categorized as below limit of detection (0), detectable but below median (I), or at/above median (II) using all data (n=94), the mean difference in cV between 0 and I groups (−0.20; 95%CI: −0.56,0.16) was not significant, but the difference was larger and significant when comparing 0 and II groups (−0.41; 95%CI: −0.78, −0.04). Leptin was not significantly associated with cV (0.2 decrease in cV per 100 ng/ml increase in leptin; 95% CI: −2.1, 1.7; p=0.82).

Conclusion

Higher FGF21 in cord blood may signal increased risk of slower early infant linear growth in this Bangladeshi cohort. Further research is required to determine if FGF21 is a viable biomarker for early growth, or if the association with FGF21 points to a modifiable mechanism of growth faltering.

Support or Funding Information

The original clinical trial was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Comparison of trunk‐to‐leg ratio as assessed by photographic imaging in shorter and taller preschool children of the Western Highlands of Guatemala: Implications regarding the biology of stunting
Authors: Beintema Joni Jade Serena , Solomons Noel W , García‐Meza Rosario , Orozco Mónica N. , Gwaltney Rebecca , Doak Colleen M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Linear growth is very dependent on the differential elongation of the two major body components: trunk and legs. Photographic imaging could help to improve accuracy and limit subject burden. This study aimed to apply photographic images to quantify body segments in preschool children in 2 settings differing by socio‐economic status (SES) in the Western Highlands of Guatemala

Methods

We measured standing height in children, aged 4–7 y from a lower SES (predominately Mayan‐ascent) and a higher SES (largely European‐ascent) from Sololá and Quetzaltenango, respectively. Height for age z‐scores were calculated using the WHO Growth Standards to identify stunting (as ≤ −2 height for age z‐score). A standard sagittal photograph with the child standing in erect posture with the Frankfort Gaze was taken from a 3‐m distance with a digital camera. The length of the trunk and of the legs was measured in mm from printed images and used to calculate trunk‐to‐leg ratios and to compare between settings.

Results

The Quetzaltenango children were on average 7.0 cm taller than their Sololá‐counterparts, 5.2 cm of the difference was attributed to leg length. Children in Sololá have a higher prevalence of stunting than children in Quetzaltenango (46.1% vs. 5.9%). The median trunk‐to‐leg ratio was higher in Sololá (0.82) than in Quetzaltenango (0.76).

Conclusion

Photographic imaging show the key population differences in these settings relates to the shorter relative leg lengths in Sololá. These findings are congruent with population differences in child stunting as well as ethnicity.
Inter‐ and intra‐rater concordance in estimating height and its components using photographic images in Guatemalan children from the Western Highlands
Authors: Orozco Mónica N. , Beintema Joni Jade Serena , García‐Meza Rosario , Gwaltney Rebecca , Rolker Heike B. , Doak Colleen M. , Solomons Noel W
Published: November 2023

Background

Photographic imaging may be used to assess height and its components (legs and trunk) in an accurate way. Nonetheless, inter‐ and intra‐rater variations represent a potential source of error in this novel method.

Objective

To determine the inter‐and intra‐rater reliability when using photographic imaging for the estimation of total length (TL), leg length (LL) and the trunk‐to‐leg ratio (TLR) in preschool children from the Western Highlands of Guatemala.

Methods

Photographs from 247 preschool children aged 4–7 y were taken from a 3‐m distance with the child standing sideways in front of a color‐coded metric ruler and looking forward with a Frankfort plane gaze. TL and LL were estimated from paper printouts, measured to the nearest mm, and both served to calculate TLR. Height was compared to the gold standard stadiometer. Image‐derived TL and LL were measured on 3 different occasions by the same researcher (R1) for intra‐rater correspondence and by 2 other researchers (R2 & R3) for inter‐rater reliability assessment.

Results

The mean measured height and estimated photo height were 109.7±0.46 cm (stadiometer) and 109.9±0.45 cm (photo).Mean TL and LL were 228±1.0 mm and 128±0.7mm, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficients for intra‐rater reliability for TL, LL and TLR on all 3 occasions were consistently higher than 0.9 (p<0.05); and for inter‐rater reliability these values were 0.997, 0.996 & 0.974, (R1 vs. R2), 0.997, 0.996 & 0.979 (R1 vs. R3), and 0.999, 0.997 & 0.982 (R2 vs. R3) (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The results from this study highlight strong inter‐ and intra‐rater concordances for height and body components derived from photographic imaging, which makes this innovative method a promising tool for growth studies in humans.
The Influence of Maternal Nutrition on Fetal Size based on Ultrasound Measurements throughout Pregnancy
Authors: Nguyen Phuong , Young Melissa F. , Addo Yaw O , Nguyen Hieu , Pham Hoa , Truong Truong V , Truong Son V , Martorell Reynaldo , Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: November 2023

Maternal anthropometry are known to influence birth weight, but there is a paucity of information on the relationships between maternal nutritional status and fetal growth during pregnancy. This study aimed to examine the influence of maternal nutritional status before and during pregnancy on fetal size during early (14–20 weeks), mid (20–30 weeks) and late (>30 weeks) pregnancy. We used prospective data collected from women who participated in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the impact of preconceptional micronutrient supplements (PRECONCEPT) on birth outcomes in Vietnam. Data analysis included 1412 women who had at least one ultrasound exam and delivered a singleton live birth. Fetal anthropometric (head circumferences‐ HC, biparietal diameter‐ BD, abdomen circumference‐ AC and femoral length‐FL) measurements were obtained by trained physicians during early, mid and late pregnancy. Maternal pre‐pregnancy weight, height, and hemoglobin were measured before conception. Conditional weight gain (CWG) on pre‐pregnancy body mass index (PPBMI – kg/m2) were calculated respectively with each ultrasound period. The influence of maternal nutritional status before and during pregnancy on fetal size was assessed using generalized linear models, adjusting for potential confounding factors (maternal age, education, treatment group, child gender, household SES, time from enrolment to conception and repeated measure). PPBMI was a significant independent predictor of all measures of fetal size in the third trimester except for FL. A 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in PPBMI was associated with 0.16, 0.13 and 0.18 SD increase in HC, BD and AC, respectively. CWG in the first trimester was positively associated with all measures of fetal size between 20–30 weeks (effect size 0.18–0.28) and at >30 weeks of gestation (effect size 0.21–0.29) except for AC. Similar results was seen for the association between CWG in the second trimester and fetal size at 20–30 weeks (effect size 0.13–0.24) and at >30 weeks (effect size 0.15–0.28). However, CWG in the third trimester and pre‐pregnancy hemoglobin had no significant effect on fetal size. In conclusion, our study has provided evidence that both maternal BMI before pregnancy and weight gain during early and mid‐pregnancy have important and independent effects on fetal growth.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by the Mathile Institute for the Advancement of Human Nutrition, the Micronutrient Initiative, and Nestlé Foundation.
Household Expenditures on Fruit and Vegetables are Associated with Significant Increases in zHFA at ages 5, 8 and 12 in Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam
Authors: Humphries Debbie , Dearden Kirk A. , Crookston Benjamin , Woldehanna Tassew , Penny Mary E. , Behrman Jere
Published: November 2023

Household expenditure surveys, covering fifteen days of household expenditures and including key food groups, are routinely conducted in low and middle income countries. This data may help identify patterns of food expenditure that influence child growth.

Objectives

We investigated the relationship between household food expenditures and child growth using four different analytic approaches.

Methods

We used data on 6,993 children from Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam at ages 5, 8 and 12 yrs from the Young Lives cohort. We compared associations between household food expenditures and child growth (zhfa) using (a) total household food expenditures, (b) principal components, (c) factor analysis and (d) cluster analysis extracted from household expenditures on 13 different food groups, controlling for total food expenditures, round of data collection, rural/urban residence and child sex.

Results

Factors, principal components and indicators of clusters added significant information about zhfa over and above that provided by total food expenditures. Factors and principal components with loading on animal source foods and/or fruits and vegetables were significantly associated with higher zhfa in all countries except Ethiopia. Factors and principal components with loading on whole grains and pulses were significantly associated with lower zhfa in Peru, and higher zhfa in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

Household food expenditure data provides important insights into household food purchasing patterns that are significant predictors of zhfa. Including food expenditure data in analyses may yield important information about linear growth.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation [Global Health Grant OPP1032713]; Eunice Shriver Kennedy National Institute of Child Health and Development [grant number R01 HD070993]; and Grand Challenges Canada [grant number 0072‐03]. The data used in this study come from Young Lives, a 15‐year survey investigating the changing nature of childhood poverty in Ethiopia, India (Andhra Pradesh), Peru, and Vietnam (www.younglives.org.uk). Young Lives is core‐funded by UK Aid from the Department for International Development (DFID) and was co‐funded from 2010 to 2014 by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The findings and conclusions contained herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect positions or policies of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Eunice Shriver Kennedy National Institute of Child Health and Development, Grand Challenges Canada, Young Lives, DFID, or other funders.
Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status in Infants From the Urban Slums of Mumbai, India
Authors: Venkatramanan Sudha , Haas Jere D , Finkelstein Julia L , Salvi Ashwini , Thorat Aparna , Huey Samantha L , Udipi Shobha A , Ghugre Padmini , Kurpad Anura V , Mehta Saurabh
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study was conducted to assess dietary intake and nutritional status of infants living in the urban slums of Mumbai, India, in preparation for a randomized efficacy feeding trial of iron‐biofortified pearl millet.

Methods

Study participants (n=37) were infants aged six to 12 months from the slums of Mumbai. Infant dietary intake was assessed by 24‐hour dietary recall, administered to mothers; nutrient intake was calculated using CS dietary software. Anthropometric measurements of infant length and weight were recorded. World Health Organization (WHO) z‐scores for weight‐for‐age (WAZ), length‐for‐age (LAZ), and weight‐for‐length (WLZ) were calculated, and used to define underweight (WAZ<−2), stunting (HAZ<−2), and wasting (WLZ<−2).

Results

In this study, infants did not meet the Indian recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for energy (78%), fat (86%), and calcium (67%). Dietary intake of iron was 35% of the Indian RDA. The protein intake was above the Indian RDA (>100%). Mean WAZ, LAZ, and WLZ scores were −1.3 (SD: 0.8), −1.8 (SD: 1.0), and −0.5 (SD: 0.8) respectively, and 37% of infants were stunted.

Conclusions

Dietary intake of iron, calcium, fat, and total energy were low in this population, and more than one–third of infants were stunted. Effective and sustainable nutritional interventions are urgently needed to improve the dietary and nutritional status of infants living in this setting.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by HarvestPlus/IFPRI
Perceived iron content in drinking water associated with anemia among women with iron‐poor diets in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Wendt Amanda , Waid Jillian , Gabrysch Sabine
Published: November 2023

The Food and Agricultural Approaches to Reducing Malnutrition (FAARM) cluster‐randomized controlled trial in Sylhet, Bangladesh aims to improve micronutrient status of women and their children through a complex nutrition‐sensitive agriculture intervention. Examining etiologies of micronutrient deficiencies is important to understand the intervention impact. Elevated iron content in groundwater in Bangladesh has been cited as a dietary iron source and could therefore be relevant for anemia surveillance. To explore this, we used FAARM baseline data collected in early 2015 among 2,122 women in 96 clusters. The women were 15–40 years old (mean: 25 years), 33% were anemic (mean hemoglobin: 12.4 g/dL), and 35% were underweight (mean BMI: 20). Perceived levels of iron in drinking water were measured by self‐report using a 4‐point scale (none, a little, medium, a lot). Both anemia prevalence and hemoglobin level were significantly associated with iron content in water in a dose‐response manner in bivariable analyses. In a random‐effect logistic regression model adjusted for confounders, we found a significant interaction (p=0.04) between perceived iron content and iron‐rich food consumption on the previous day. For women who consumed an iron‐poor diet, a one‐level increase in perceived iron content of drinking water was inversely associated with anemia prevalence (adjusted OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.65, 0.92). For women who consumed iron‐rich foods the day before, no such association was found (adjusted OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.86, 1.10). Results were similar for hemoglobin level as a linear outcome. These findings highlight the importance of iron in drinking water to dietary intake among women with low iron consumption through food. Water iron content should thus be considered in future surveys evaluating micronutrient status.

Support or Funding Information

This trial is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF) and surveillance by DFID through the Nutrition Embedding Evaluation Programme (NEEP). The intervention is funded jointly by BMBF, and through the following private donations: the Carrefour Foundation, TWFA, and Best‐in‐Brands.
Effectiveness and Tolerability of Various Ferrous Salts in Correcting Mild to Moderate Iron Deficiency Anemia in Indonesian Women
Authors: Ashmead Stephen , Hartle Jennifer
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness and tolerability of various commercial ferrous sources in correcting mild to moderate iron deficiency anemia in Indonesian women. Ninety four women ages 18–50 with hemoglobin levels of 8–12 mg/dL and ferritin levels less than 45 mcg/L were recruited and randomized to one of five different treatment groups: ferrous bisglycinate (FBG), ferrous aparto‐glycinate (FA), ferrous fumarate (FF), ferrous sulfate (FS), or a malto dextrin placebo (P).All treatment materials were supplied by Albion. Study design was a double blind trial. Subjects receiving iron treatments were dosed with 90 mg elemental iron from the respective source. Treatment period was 30 days with a 7 day follow up period. Blood was drawn at the beginning of the treatment and at the end of treatment and was analyzed for hemoglobin and ferritin content using standard clinical measuring techniques. Additionally, subjects were evaluated for gastrointestinal tolerability of the treatments using self‐reported questionnaires. The results of the questionnaires were scored for analysis. At the end of the study it was found that all of the iron treatments significantly increased (p<0.05) the hemoglobin values with FBG and FF having the greatest change followed by FA and FF. Ferritin values were increases significantly (p<0.05) from baseline values in all iron treatments. There was no statistical difference between treatments, although FA treatment resulted in the greatest numerical change followed closely by FF and FBG. Compliance, as determined by counting doses taken, was very high (>95%) and there were no significant differences between groups. At the end of the treatment period, FBG had the greatest improvement in tolerability score followed by FF, P and FS. At the post treatment 7 day follow up period, FBG, FF and P continued to have increased tolerability scores while all other iron treatments tended to return to baseline values. It was concluded that FBG was the most effective treatment as determined by changes in hemoglobin and ferritin values combined with the high gastrointestinal tolerability.

Support or Funding Information

This research was funded by Albion, Clearfield Utah.
Chickpea Bread, a Low Glycemic Index Bread Alternative
Authors: Mejia Sonia Blanco , Ireland Christopher , Kendall Cyril W.C. , Sievenpiper John L. , Wolever Thomas M.S. , Vuksan Vladimir V.V. , Pencharz Paul B. , Jenkins David J.A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Pulses are low glycemic index (GI) foods that have been found to have beneficial effects on blood glucose control and other health factors. Due to widespread bread consumption and the low availability of low GI breads for individuals with diabetes, there is the need to develop low GI palatable breads that meet the needs of these individuals.

Objective

To develop a low GI pulse based bread with acceptable palatability.

Methods

We developed six different breads, a control white flour bread (C bread), a bread made out of 100% chickpea flour (T bread) and four others made with white flour and added wheat bran and/or gluten to isolate the effect of protein/fiber on GI. Their macronutrient composition was analyzed. These breads were then tested for their GI response and palatability and were compared to the C bread in healthy participants using student's t‐test.

Results

GI and palatability (mean ± SEM) for the test breads were as follow: T bread 80.1 ± 5.3, 63.6 ± 8.0; control bread with added wheat bran and gluten (C+ bread) 90.5 ± 6.3, 58.7 ± 10.0; control bread with added wheat bran and extra gluten (CB3XG bread) 82.7 ± 6.4, 50.4 ± 10.2; control bread with extra gluten (C3XG bread) 78.7 ± 25.6, 51.5 ± 9.9; and control bread with wheat bran (CB bread) 102.1±25.5, 64.9 ± 8.1. When compared to C bread (GI = 100 ± 0), we observed a statistical significantly lower GI in T bread (GI = 80.1 ± 5.3, p < 0.01), CB3XG bread (GI = 82.7 ± 6.4, p < 0.05), and C3XG bread (GI = 78.7 ± 8.1, p < 0.05). Palatability was not statistically different between C bread and other breads.

Limitations

We developed and analyzed a single pulse bread (T bread) and with no dose effect measurement. GI test was done solely in healthy individuals.

Conclusion

T bread had satisfactorily GI and palatability, but further work remains to make it sufficiently palatable for general use.

Support or Funding Information

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers and Loblaw Companies Limited
Satiety Effects of Lentils in a Calorie Matched Fruit Smoothie
Authors: Erickson Jennifer , Rendahl Aaron , Slavin Joanne
Published: November 2023

Background

The food environment is changing, with consumers being more health conscious and concerned about the wholesomeness of their food than ever before. Consumers are looking for nutritious whole food alternatives to fill their stomachs. Pulse grains, rich in both protein and fiber, may be the ideal candidate to promote satiety at meals.

Methods

In a crossover feeding study, 39 healthy participants (19 females, 20 males) consumed calorie‐matched fruit smoothies prepared with either an ice cream base or pureed red lentils. Self‐reported satiety, blood glucose response, and ad libitum energy intake at a secondary pizza meal were measured along with breath hydrogen and methane, and gastrointestinal tolerance.

Results

The nutrient profile of the lentil smoothie was improved with increased protein and fiber and considerably lower fat content compared to the control smoothie. The lentil smoothie contained 14% more carbohydrates than the control, but no difference in glycemic response was seen between smoothies, suggesting possibly improved glycemic control with the lentil treatment. Both smoothies were generally well tolerated; however, there was a slightly elevated AUC for perceived gastrointestinal tolerance over 24 hours following the consumption of the lentil smoothie. No difference in satiety ratings over three hours, energy intake at a secondary meal or breath hydrogen and methane response was seen between treatments.

Conclusion

The lentil smoothie produced a similar satiety response compared to a control smoothie prepared with ice cream.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by the American Pulse Association.
Impact of processing on the protein quality of a pinto bean/buckwheat blend, as determined by in vitro and in vivo methodologies
Authors: Nosworthy Matthew G , Franczyk Adam , Neufeld Jason , House James D
Published: November 2023

Blending of multiple protein sources can increase protein quality by compensating for limiting amino acids present in the individual sources. Processing flour by extrusion and baking can also alter the quality of a protein. In order to determine the effect of processing and blending on flours from buckwheat (BW) and pinto beans (PB), a rodent bioassay was performed. Sprague‐Dawley rats (n=100, ~70 g) were randomized to one of ten diets (10% crude protein): casein (reference control) or one of 3 experimental groups: untreated, extruded or baked (simulated baked cracker flour; SBCF) with either PB, BW or a 50:50 pinto bean/buckwheat blend (PB/BW). The protein efficiency ratio (PER), true protein digestibility (TPD%) and protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) were calculated. The relationship between (TPD%) and in vitro digestibility was also investigated. The in vitro digestibility of the protein sources was determined via enzymatic digestion and subsequent pH drop. PER estimation was not possible for untreated PB or PB/BW blends. Extrusion did not alter the PER of BW flour (extruded 2.96 ± 0.31, untreated 2.89 ± 0.17) however, the PER of SBCF BW was lower than the other BW diets (1.81 ± 0.45, p<0.05).Extruded PB had significantly lower PER (1.67 ± 0.25) than either casein (2.83 ± 0.14) or extruded BW (p<0.05).SBCF PB had the lowest PER of any diet studied (1.26 ± 0.52, p<0.05). Extruded PB/BW had a significant increase in PER over extruded PB alone (2.48 ± 0.16, p<0.05), however the extruded PB/BW had a lower PER than extruded BW (p<0.05).Extrusion increased the digestibility of BW flour (p<0.05), while extruded PB/BW had a significantly higher digestibility than extruded BW (p<0.05).SBCF treatment reduced the digestibility of both BW and PB flours compared to either controls or extruded products (p<0.05), while the SBCF PB/BW was more digestible than either SBCF BW or SBCF PB. Interestingly, a correlation was found between the digestibility values calculated through the rodent bioassay and in vitro method (R2= .6718, p=0.0128).A similar correlation was found between PDCAAS and the in vitro digestibility corrected amino acid score (R2=0.9280, p=.0001). Overall, extruded products had higher PER values, increased digestibility and greater PDCAAS values than SBCF products with the extruded PB/BW having the greatest PDCAAS value of the experimental diets. As a strong correlation was found between both digestibility and PDCAAS values generated from in vitro and in vivo methods, the use of in vitro digestibility analysis should be investigated as a potential replacement for the current rodent assay for nutrient content claim purposes.

Support or Funding Information

Manitoba Agri‐Health Research Network; Saskatchewan Pulse Growers; AAFC Growing Forward II; Global Institute for Food Security