bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Burden of Vitamin D Deficiency in Pregnancy and its Association with Low Birth Weight in a Prospective Cohort in South India
Authors: Mehta Saurabh , Dwarkanath Pratibha , Finkelstein Julia L. , Joseph Siji , Thomas Tinku , Kurpad Anura V.
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in a prospective cohort of pregnant women and its association with birth outcomes in Bangalore, India.

Methods

Pregnant women (n=419) were recruited in their first trimester to a perinatal cohort study between 2008 and 2014 and followed up until delivery. Vitamin D status was assessed through determination of serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) using tandem liquid chromatography mass spectrophotometry (LCMS/MS, CV 1.6%) in maternal samples at enrollment and in cord blood at delivery. Binomial and linear regression models were used to evaluate the associations between maternal and infant vitamin D status and with birth outcomes, including infant birth weight and preterm birth.

Results

The mean serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentration in both maternal and cord blood was 37 ± 19 nmol/L with nearly 82% of mothers having vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <50 nmol/L). The mean birth weight of children born in this study was 2915 ± 431 grams with 13% of the children being classified as having low birth weight (<2,500 grams). Children born to women with serum vitamin D concentrations in the lowest quintile had significantly lower birth weight, compared to children born to women with vitamin D concentrations in the highest four quintiles (mean difference: 148 grams; 95% Confidence Interval: 45, 252 grams; p‐value <0.01).

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency is present in four out of five pregnant women in our cohort in an urban tropical setting and is associated with adverse birth outcomes such as lower birth weight. Studies with longer follow‐up are urgently needed to determine impact of poor vitamin D status on functional outcomes during childhood, and if vitamin D supplementation should be a part of standard antenatal care.

Support or Funding Information

Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University
Extended‐Synaptotagmins as Lipid Transporters at ER‐PM Contact Sites
Authors: Reinisch Karin M , Schauder Curtis , Wu Xudong , Saheki Yasunori , Narayanaswamy Pradeep , Torta Federico , Wenk Markus , De Camilli Pietro
Published: November 2023

Growing evidence suggests that close appositions between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and other membranes, including appositions with the plasma membrane (PM), mediate exchange of lipids between these bilayers. The mechanisms of such exchange, which allows lipid transfer independently of vesicular transport, remain poorly understood. The presence of a synaptotagmin‐like mitochondrial‐lipid‐binding protein (SMP) domain, a proposed lipid‐binding module, in several proteins localized at membrane contact sites raised the possibility that such domains may be implicated in lipid transport. SMP‐containing proteins include components of the ERMES complex, an ER–mitochondrial tether, and the extended synaptotagmins, which are ER–PM tethers. We present at 2.44 Å resolution the crystal structure of a fragment of human extended synaptotagmin 2 (E‐SYT2), including an SMP domain and two adjacent C2 domains. The SMP domain has a β‐barrel structure like protein modules in the tubular‐lipid‐binding (TULIP) superfamily. It dimerizes to form an approximately 90‐Å‐long cylinder traversed by a channel lined entirely with hydrophobic residues, with the two C2A–C2B fragments forming arched structures flexibly linked to the SMP domain. Importantly, structural analysis complemented by mass spectrometry revealed the presence of glycerophospholipids in the E‐SYT2 SMP channel, indicating a direct role for E‐SYTs in lipid transport. These findings provide strong evidence for a role of SMP‐domain‐containing proteins in the control of lipid transfer at membrane contact sites and have broad implications beyond the field of ER‐to‐PM appositions.

Note that this abstract is very similar to that in our initial report in Nature, 2014, 510:552–555.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (GM080616 to K.M.R., R37NS36251 and DK082700 to P.D.C.). M.R.W. and F.T. are funded by grants from the National University of Singapore via the Life Sciences Institute (LSI) and the Biochemical Research Council (BMRC‐SERC Diag‐034). C.M.S. was recipient of an National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (DGE‐1122492). Y.S. was supported by the Uehara Memorial Foundation and the Japanese Society for Promotion of Science.

NIH GM808
Role of Pregnancy Body Composition Changes on Pregnancy Outcome, and Infant Feeding on Infant Growth and Body Composition
Authors: Anderson Alex Kojo , Smith Jessica , Birch Leann L
Published: November 2023

Objective

This project will evaluate the relationship between pregnancy weight gain and maternal body composition (fat mass, fat free mass, percent body fat and percent lean body mass) changes on pregnancy outcome (type of delivery, birth weight and birth length), and infant feeding on newborn adiposity and growth.

Methods

This a prospective observational study of healthy pregnant women, new mothers and their newborns followed up to 16 weeks postpartum. Mothers are required to keep a 24 hour feeding log of infant intake every 2 weeks up to 12 weeks postpartum. Pregnant women complete self‐administered questionnaires and their body composition (via BOD POD) is measured at ≤16, 24 and 36 weeks gestation. New mothers also complete self‐administered questionnaires and their body composition is measured at <4, 8 and 16 weeks postpartum. Newborn anthropometric and body composition (via PEA POD) measurements are conducted at <4, 8 and 16 weeks postpartum. The primary outcomes are pregnancy outcome (type of delivery, birth weight and birth length), and infant adiposity (fat mass, fat free mass, percent body fat, percent lean mass, fat mass index and fat free index) and growth (weight‐for‐age, length‐for‐age, weight‐for‐length, and rate of weight gain).

Conclusion

Findings from the study will add to our understanding of the role of gestational weight gain and particularly, changes in pregnancy body composition on pregnancy outcome and postpartum body composition. This work will also contribute insight into the effects of infant feeding on early childhood adiposity and growth.

Support or Funding Information

Georgia Agricultural Experiment Stations (HATCH: GEO00701)
Labeling of Genetically Modified Food Products and Consumer Behavior
Authors: Wunderlich Shahla M , Gatto Kelsey A , Vecchione Melissa
Published: November 2023

Consumers rely on food labels to obtain information about food products beyond sensory characteristics and price, such as nutritional information, ingredient lists, allergen warnings, use of organic production, and most recently the exclusion of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Consumers desire labeling of modified foods in order to make informed decisions while purchasing food. Surveys were administered to adult consumers and supermarket representatives in northern New Jersey to assess their knowledge of GM‐containing foods, awareness of labeling, and the impact of labeling on purchasing behavior. In the survey of customer service representatives (n=17), the majority of supermarket employees believed that the presence of non‐GMO labeling influenced consumer behavior in some way, with 52.9% reporting that it impacted all consumers, 17.6% asserting that it mattered to those who were knowledgeable and interested in food without genetic modification, and only 5.9% feeling that their clientele would not be interested because of its demographics. Service representatives may not be reliable resources for those interested in purchasing non‐GMO foods, as only 35.3% of respondents had noticed non‐GMO labeling themselves. With regard to consumer inquiries about GMOs, several consumer service representatives indicated that “consumers have never asked about GMOs.” However, some respondents also believe that “non‐GMO labels would influence consumer purchases for the organic and healthy eating customers” and for consumers who “read labels and want to know what they are eating.” This dichotomy is interesting because even though the customer service representatives indicated that consumers haven't asked about GMO and non‐GMO products, service representatives still believe that some consumers will alter their purchasing habits based on the presence of a non‐GMO label. A survey of adult consumers (n=331), however, found only a moderate correlation between knowledge and purchasing behavior regarding non‐GMO foods (Pearson's r=0.593, p<0.001). There was a stronger correlation between attitude and purchasing behavior (Pearson's r=0.701, p<0.001), indicating that attitude towards products may predict purchasing more than pure knowledge of genetic modification. Labeling of GMO‐containing products is done on an entirely voluntary basis in the United States, leading to absent or inconsistent package labels provided by third‐party examiners such as the Non‐GMO Project. Labeling of organic products, which are inherently non‐GMO, is strictly regulated by the United States government and utilizes a standardized “Certified Organic” seal for identification.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Montclair State University Faculty Scholarship Program.
Consumption of a Cracker and Salty Snack Dietary Grain Pattern is Associated with Greater Intake of Certain Food Groups to Encourage in US Children and Adolescents: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2005–2010
Authors: Papanikolaou Yanni , Fulgoni Victor L
Published: November 2023

Crackers represent a grain food product that can be popular with children and adolescents due to the palatability, acceptability and convenience attributes. The purpose of this study was to compare various food group intakes in children and adolescents (2–18 years of age, n=8,367) consuming a predominantly crackers and salty snack dietary grain pattern and compare to those who did not consume grain foods. To develop food patterns of grain consumption we used cluster analyses, which is a statistical procedure that analyses large data sets to develop various patterns while trying to maximize differences among the patterns. The USDA food coding system was used to define main categories of grain foods. Cluster analysis using data from What We Eat in America, 2005–2010, the dietary intake component of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, identified 26.1% of the population that reported consuming 53% of their total daily grains from crackers and salty snacks. Total grain intake was significantly higher for children and adolescents consuming a crackers and salty snack grain pattern relative to children and adolescents not consuming grains (6.90±1.0 vs. 5.13±0.2 oz equivalents, p<0.01). Similarly, children and adolescents consuming crackers and salty snacks had greater whole grain intake in comparison to those individuals not consuming grains (0.66±0.03 vs. 0.08±0.2 oz equivalents/day, p<0.01). Furthermore, children consuming a cracker and salty snack dietary grain pattern had significantly greater intake of whole fruit (0.64±0.03 vs. 0.49±0.05 cup equivalents/day, p<0.01), and total fruit (1.11±0.04 vs. 0.87±0.06 cup equivalents/day, p<0.01), and lower intakes of discretionary solid fat (37.0±1.0 vs. 40.6±1.0 g/day, p<0.01) vs. children and adolescents not consuming main grain foods. No differences were observed for daily intake of added sugar, sodium, discretionary oil, dark green leafy vegetables, meat, legumes or milk. The current preliminary data support that consumption of a crackers and salty snack dietary grain pattern in children and adolescents was associated with improved whole grain and fruit consumption, and lower discretionary solid fat intake. While more research is needed, incorporating both whole and refined grains, while limiting nutrients to avoid, may prove beneficial in the diets of US children and adolescents.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Grain Foods Foundation.
Comparison of Five Malnutrition Screening Tools in a Cohort of Acutely Ill Older Adults
Authors: Deer Rachel R , Volpi Elena
Published: November 2023

Over the last decades numerous nutrition screening tools have been developed. Currently there is no international consensus on a single ‘best tool’ to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in acutely ill older adults.

We examined the prevalence of malnutrition in a cohort of older adults (>65 years) hospitalized on the Acute Care for Elders unit at UTMB using five commonly used screening tools: (Malnutrition Screen Tool (MST), Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA‐SF), Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS‐2002), and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST)). These tools were compared to a pre‐set definition of malnutrition risk based on the presence of either BMI <20kg/m2 or >5% unintentional weight loss in the last 6 months. For this analysis, nutritional status was scored as either “normal” or “at‐risk/malnourished.”

The prevalence of malnutrition varied greatly depending on which nutritional assessment tool was used, indicating a vast difference in specificity and sensitivity of the tools. According to the pre‐set definition 25.7% of our cohort was at‐risk of malnutrition/malnourished. Using the five screening tools, the highest prevalence of subjects “at‐risk/malnourished” was obtained with MNA‐SF (74.3%), followed by NRS‐2002 (60.8%), SGA (55.4%), MUST (31.1%) and finally MST (21.6%). Sensitivity and negative predictive values was adequate in all five tools (>75%). MNA‐SF, NRS‐2002, and SGA had poor specificity and low positive predictive values (<55%).

These preliminary data (n=74) from an ongoing study, indicate that malnutrition in acutely ill older adults varies greatly depending on which tool is used for diagnosis (21.6–74.3%). MST and MUST had acceptable sensitivity and specificity and would be appropriate screening tools to be used in acutely ill older adults. Further research is necessary to determine the most valid and practical nutritional screening tool for use in this specialized population.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by the Dairy Research Institute (1229) and the Claude D. Pepper OAIC (P30‐AG024832).

Accuracies of the nutrition screening tools.

Sensitivity
Specificity
Positive Predictive Value
Negative Predictive Value

MST
75%
88%
63%
93%

MNA
100%
35%
35%
100%

MUST
95%
91%
78%
98%

NRS
100%
53%
42%
100%

SGA
84%
55%
39%
91%

Malnutrition Screen Tool (MST), Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA‐SF), Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NFS‐2002), and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST)
Older adult stunting in Guatemala assessed with total vs. knee height adjusted stature
Authors: Bermudez Odilia I. , Engle Brian , McManus Jenny , García‐Meza Rosario , Escobar Martha , Solomons Noel W.
Published: November 2023

Background

Stunted adults have higher risk for chronic diseases, but scarce information on its prevalence exists in Guatemala.

Objective

Our aim was to assess prevalence of stunting estimations using total vs. height adjusted with knee height (KH) in older (≥60 y) Guatemalan adults. We also aimed at estimating body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) with both sets of height estimators.

Methods

We recruited 52 men and 72 women from Quetzaltenango City, Guatemala. We measured their total (TH) and KH in cm and weight in kg. T‐tests and correlation models were tested to assess differences in stunting prevalence using TH or KH, plus BMI (kg/m2) estimates using either TH or KH. Adult stunting was defined as height below 150 cm and 145 cm in men and women, respectively.

Results

KH (cm) for men and women (M/W) were 48.7±2.3/44.4±2.1, p<0.001, and TH adjusted by KH were 157.4+4.3/144.4+4.2, p<0.001, as compared to measured TH of 156.3±6.6/144.0±6.4, p<0.001. Weights (kg) were 58.7±10.7/55.2±13.2, p>0.05. BMI (kg/m2) with TH as compared to the KH adjusted, were 23.8 vs. 23.5 for men and 26.4 vs. 26.3, with p>0.05 in both cases. Correlation coefficients for TH and KH were 0.90, p<0.01, and for BMI‐TH vs. BMI‐KH resulted in 0.96, p<0.001. Stunting prevalence was 52.8% for women and 13.7% for men. Stunted vs. non‐stunted women, had a significantly higher torso:leg ratio, an indication of short legs. This was not replicated with men.

Conclusions

Estimates of stature and BMI with TH or KH were not significantly different. Women, as compared to men, had higher rates of stunting, and probably relatively shorter legs to their trunks. Average BMI in women was above normal. These findings are relevant and require correction at earlier life stages, as adult stunting and obesity are linked to adversities in survival, adult‐health, learning‐ capacity and physical productivity.
American Major Dietary Patterns and Age‐related Cataract
Authors: Chiu Chung‐Jung , Gensler Gary , Taylor Allen
Published: November 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the associations between major American dietary patterns and risk for cortical and nuclear cataract.

Methods

Dietary consumption data of 37 food groups were collected by a 90‐item Block food frequency questionnaire administered at the baseline Age‐Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). Using the AREDS System for Classifying Cataracts, 2007 eyes with pure nuclear lens opacity, 1281 eyes with pure cortical opacity, and 2491 eyes without lens opacity were identified from 7,575 eligible eyes. Associations between dietary patterns and pure lens opacities were examined by using the generalized estimating approach to logistic regression.

Results

Two major dietary patterns were identified by principle component analysis and named Oriental and Western patterns. The Oriental pattern was characterized by higher intake of vegetables, legumes, fruit, whole grains, tomatoes, and seafood. The Western pattern was characterized by higher intake of red meat, processed meat, high‐fat dairy products, French fries, refined grains, and eggs. We ranked our participants according to how closely their diets line up with the two patterns by calculating the two pattern scores for each participant. For all nuclear opacity (grade >2), the multivariate‐adjusted odds ratio (OR) comparing the highest to lowest tertile of the Western pattern score was 1.36 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–1.76; Ptrend=0.03), and for mild nuclear opacity (grade <4 but >2) the OR was 1.45 (1.12–1.89; Ptrend=0.01). No other significant associations were noted.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that consuming a Western dietary pattern is significantly associated with increased odds of early nuclear opacity.

Support or Funding Information

Financial support for this project has been provided by the RO1EY021826 (C‐J.C.) from the National Institutes of Health, the United States Department of Agriculture under agreements, 1950‐5100‐060‐01A (C‐J.C., A.T.), and RO1EY013250 and RO1EY021212 (A.T.). Correspondence to Chung‐Jung Chiu, Jean Mayer United States Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, 711 Washington Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, e‐mail: CJ.Chiu@tufts.edu
Vitamin B‐6 supplementation might mediate antioxidant capacity by reducing plasma homocysteine concentration in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after tumor resection
Authors: Huang Yi‐Chia , Cheng Shao‐Bin , Liu Hsiao‐Tien
Published: November 2023

Deficient vitamin B‐6 status might be a causative factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, it would be useful to determine whether vitamin B‐6 supplementation would have a preventive effect in reducing plasma homocysteine, or indirectly increasing glutathione and its dependent antioxidant enzyme capacities in patients with HCC. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether vitamin B‐6 supplementation had a significant effect on plasma homocysteine, oxidative stress, and antioxidant capacities in HCC patients following tumor resection. Thirty‐three HCC patients were included in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to either the placebo (n = 16) group or the vitamin B‐6 50 mg/d (n = 17) group for 12 weeks. Plasma homocysteine in the vitamin B‐6 group was significantly decreased at week 12, while the level of trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) was significantly increased at the end of the intervention period. Vitamin B‐6 supplementation had significant reducing effect on the change of plasma homocysteine (β = −2.4, p = 0.02) but not on the change of TEAC level after adjusting for potential confounders. The change of plasma homocysteine was significantly associated with the change of TEAC after adjusting for potential confounders (β = −162.0, p = 0.03). Vitamin B‐6 supplementation seemed to mediate antioxidant capacity via by reducing plasma homocysteine rather than having a direct anti‐oxidative effect in HCC patients who had recently undergone tumor resection.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan (MOST 104‐2320‐B‐040‐009‐MY3).
Effect of Weight Loss on Leptin, Insulin, HOMA, TG/HDL and CRP Levels in Overweight and Obese Subjects
Authors: Zago Liliana , Felipoff Ana Lía , Weisstaub Adriana , Dupraz Hernán , Presner Natalia , Perdomo Clara , Río María Esther , Maselli María C , Ortiz Victoria , Pandolfo Marcela , Infantino Carlos González
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of weight loss on metabolic markers, insulin resistance and inflammation. 59 women (20–73 years) were incorporated into a weight reduction program based on changes to healthy diets and physical activity just to avoid sedentary. Patients were evaluated at T0 and 3 months later (T3) by anthropometric and biochemical measurements. In this study we analyze variation of serum insulin (INS), leptin (LEP), HOMA ((Glucose × Insulin)/405), TG/HDL ratio, and ultrasensitive C‐reactive protein (CRPu), as a consequence of weight loss, expressed as percentage of weight loss relative to initial weight (WL%). The initial BMI was 31.6 ± 4.31 kg/m2(Overweight: 41%, Obesity I: 39%, II: 12%, III: 8%). At T3, the patients were divided according WL% into 4 groups: WL% 0–4%: 18 patients; WL% 4‐ <7%: 17 patients; WL% 7–15%: 15 patients. The 4th group corresponded to 9 patients who maintained or increased their weight. LEP was the parameter which suffered the biggest changes, decreasing significantly between T0 and T3 in the groups with WL% 4‐ <7% (16.2 ± 9.53 vs 10.4 ± 6.11; P = 0.0006) and with WL% 7–15% (14.1 ± 6.9 vs 12.10 ± 8.38; P = 0.0038) ng/ml. INS and HOMA values decreased significantly only in the group with WL% 7–15%: INS (8.4 ± 5.37 vs 6.2 ± 3.43; P = 0.0093) μU/ml and HOMA (2.1 ± 1.46 vs 1.4 ± 0.78; P = 0.0082). TG/HDL ratio and CRP showed no significant changes in all groups, although percentage of patients with CRP> 3 mg/L, compatible with high risk of coronary heart disease, decreased from 47% to 33% in the group with the highest WL%. The obtained results suggest that a weight loss higher than 7% is required to achieve favorable changes in the studied metabolic markers, even when a weight loss of 4‐<7% may produce a significant reduction in leptin levels.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by UBACyT 20720130100006BA
Eating on Simulated Night Shift Effects Glucose Response to Breakfast: Pilot Study
Authors: Grant Crystal , Coates Alison , Dorrian Jillian , Kennaway David , Wittert Gary , Heilbronn Leonie , Pajcin Maja , Vedova Chris Della , Gupta Charlotte , Banks Siobhan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Shift workis associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The plausible link between shift work and poor health outcomes is the disruption of circadianrhythms. Meal timing plays a key role in this desynchrony. Irregular patterns of feeding/fasting can uncouple the master and peripheral clocks. Animal studies suggest the metabolic consequences of circadian rhythm disruption can be reduced by limiting food intake to only during the normal active phase.

Aim

This study compared the effect of eating at night versus not eating at night during simulated night shift on glucose metabolism.

Methods

In this laboratory based study, 11healthy, male participants were assigned to either an eating at night (n=4, 24.5±5.4y,22.1±1.4kg/m2) or not eating at night condition (n=7, 25.6±5.8y,22.4±1.9kg/m2). The protocol included one 8h night time baseline sleep, followed by 4 consecutive days of simulated shift work (sleep opportunity10:00h–16:00h each day), and an 8h night time sleep on day 6. Meal timing and composition were strictly controlled throughout the study. Participants in the feeding condition consumed breakfast 07:00h, lunch 19:00h and dinner 01:30hthroughout the protocol. Participants in the fasting condition consumed breakfast 07:00h, snack 1 09:30h, snack 2 14:10h and dinner 19:00h. The energy content of the meals was based on individual daily dietary energy requirements(kJ) calculated using the Harris Benedict equation with a light/sedentary activity level (laboratory condition). Blood samples for glucose analysis were collected at −15, 0 minutes pre‐ and 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes post‐breakfast on days 1 (baseline), 4 (after simulated shift work) and 6 (return to daytime schedule).

Results

Mixed effect ANOVAs were used with fixed effects of condition, day and time, and their interactions, and a random effect of subject id on the intercept. There were significant effects of day (p=0.007), time (p<0.001), condition by day(p<0.001), day by time (p=0.017) and condition by day by time (0.017). Glucose AUC response to breakfast was increased when eating at night compared to not eating at night, such that following 4 nights of simulated shift work AUC increased by 24% from baseline. When not eating at night the increase was only6%. After returning to a daytime schedule, glucose AUC response to breakfast increased by 62.4% from baseline. In the not eating at night condition, there was a 9.5% decrease.

Conclusion

Eating at night impairs glucose response to breakfast. This is not seen in people who do not eat at night which may provide a simple intervention to reduce the burden of metabolic disease in shift workers.
Commercially available gluten free pastas elevate postprandial glycemia in comparison to conventional wheat pasta in healthy adults
Authors: Johnston Carol S , Snyder Darren , Smith Cassandra
Published: November 2023

The use of gluten free (GF) products has risen sharply in the last ten years, and these items are a popular dietary choice for many Americans without known gluten disorders. The impact of GF product ingestion on health parameters is largely unknown. A 2004 trial (Berti et al. Eur J Nutr) indicated that GF products had differing effects on the postprandial glycemic response, in comparison to conventional wheat products, with GF pasta composed of rice and potato starch raising glycemia and GF bread composed of quinoa lowering gycemia. This trial expands on that research examining the postprandial glycemic response to commercially available GF pastas. Thirteen healthy adults (3 M; 37.3±12.9 y; 25.4±5.1 kg/m2) completed this double‐blind, crossover trial testing three GF pasta products composed of rice, corn/quinoa, or corn/rice and conventional wheat pasta. Testing was separated by at least one week, and participants maintained their normal diets but ingested one bagel daily the third and second day prior to testing. The day prior to testing participants refrained from moderate to heavy activity and consumed two bagels. The test meal consisted of 4 oz. cooked pasta combined with 2 oz. processed cheese sauce. Blood was collected in the fasting state and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes post‐meal from a finger prick for blood glucose determination. Venous blood was collected at fasting and 30 minutes post‐meal for plasma insulin analyses. The 2‐h glycemic responses were raised for the GF pastas compared to wheat pasta (+14 to +47%; p=0.024 repeated measures ANOVA) with the 30 minute glucose responses ranging 18 to 57% higher than the wheat pasta (p=0.040 for the corn/rice pasta vs. wheat). The rise in plasma insulin at 30 minutes did not differ between pastas. These data indicate that some commercial GF products may contribute to elevated postprandial glycemia in healthy adults.

Support or Funding Information

Research Support: Graduate and Professional Student Association, Arizona State University
Relationship between chronic stress and consumption of Sweeteners in CD1 Mice
Authors: MARTINEZ BEATRIZ ELINA , Iniesta Lucia García , Herrera Jorge A Escoto , RAMOS Roxana Valdés , Luna Rosa A Jarillo
Published: November 2023

The sweetener consumption and exposure to stress has increased with the current lifestyle, but this relationship has been little studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the ingestion of sweeteners and exposure to stress on water and food consumption. We used forty 21‐days old CD1 mice, divided into 5 groups: Control without stress (CL), Control plus stress (CL + S), Sucrose plus stress (Suc + S), Sucralose plus stress (Sucral + S) and Stevia plus stress (ST+ S). They were identified body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI) taking the nose‐anus length (cm) and blood glucose (mg/dL). The sweetener was administered with micropipette everyday (4.1 mg/ml/g BW); the stress model was immobilization two hours daily (Monday to Sunday). Water consumption (without sweetener) and food is quantified for 24h per mouse. In the BMI, no difference was found between groups at the end of the study (F=1.598, p<0.184). The blood glucose concentration increased significantly in the group of Suc + S (F=3.70, p<0.008). Water consumption showed differences between groups (F=2.622, p<0.05), it was significantly elevated in the CL + S group and decreased in the Suc + S and Sucral + S groups. The feed intake showed difference between groups (F =26.72, p<0.001), was significantly lower in the CL + S, Suc + S and ST + S groups. Stress reduces food consumption, increased water consumption in sucrose and sucralose groups therefore the combination of stress and sweetener consumption maybe increases satiety.

Support or Funding Information

UAEM
Does Dietary Restriction ameliorate the metabolic and lifespan consequences of circadian disruption?
Authors: Varamini Behzad
Published: November 2023

Dietary restriction (DR), a reduction in caloric intake in the absence of malnutrition, results in a robust and powerful shift in overall physiology and extends lifespan in simple and complex organisms. In Drosophila Melanogaster, a significant reduction of dietary yeast (an amino acid source) is sufficient to extend lifespan and reduce oxidative stress. Circadian disruption, and more specifically sleep deprivation, has been shown to decrease lifespan and negatively affect physiology across a wide range of systems. We hypothesize that the protective effects of dietary restriction will ameliorate or mask the effects of sleep deprivation. Canton‐S flies on a standard DR diet (90% reduction in yeast) underwent acute and chronic bouts of sleep deprivation. Lifespan studies showed protective effects of DR on sleep deprivation which included longer lifespan and reduced oxidative stress. Since DR affects a wide host of systems, further studies are needed to elucidate which genes and molecular mechanisms provide this protective effect.
Quantification of fatty acid and mineral levels of selected seeds, nuts and oils in Ghana
Authors: Adjepong Mary , Valentini Kelly , Pickens C. Austin , Li Wei , Appaw William , Fenton Jenifer
Published: November 2023

Fatty acids (FA) and minerals have crucial roles in growth and development. These nutrients are present in seeds, nuts and oils. However, Ghanaian diets are mainly starchy roots and cereals with the intake of proteins, fats and many minerals below recommended levels. The deficits of these nutrients in the diet may be the leading to iron deficiency anemia and essential fatty acid deficiency in the population. Ghana is the home to several seeds, nuts and oils but the FA profiles and mineral content of these foods are poorly described. Therefore, quantifying the fatty acid and mineral composition of local Ghanaian seeds and oils may lead to identification of underutilized food ingredients incorporated into diets. The aim of this study was to quantify fatty acid and mineral levels of seeds, nuts and oils in Ghana that are not usually incorporated in the diets. Seven types of seeds and five oils collected in Ghana were analyzed for their fatty acid composition by gas chromatography (GC‐MS). Mineral analysis of seeds was performed using microwave digestion followed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Concentrations of fatty acids and minerals are reported as mg/g food grade oil or amount of freeze‐dried seed material, respectively. Soybean was found to contain substantial levels of alpha linolenic acid (4.05mg/g), linoleic acid (17.13mg/g) and oleic acid (14.82mg/g). Peanuts (4.96mg/g), tigernuts (4.21mg/g), agushie seed (12.31mg/g) and agushie flour (7.01mg/g) were found to contain considerable amounts of linoleic acid. Tigernuts (12.17mg/g), peanuts (6.92mg/g), cashew nut (8.10mg/g) and palm oil (8.95mg/g) had significant amounts of oleic acid. The results from the mineral analysis indicated that agushie seeds, (0.11mg/g), agushie flour (0.09mg/g) and soybean (0.06mg/g) had appreciable levels of iron. Tigernuts (3.04mg/g), peanut (4.28mg/g), soybean (8.66mg/g), coconut (3.41mg/g), agushie (2.15mg/g) and agushie flour (2.92mg/g) had substantial amounts of potassium. Taken together, these data indicate several local Ghanaian seeds, nuts and oils are high in fatty acids, including essential fatty acids, and minerals. Future studies should investigate increased incorporation of palm oil, soybean, peanuts, cashew nut, tigernuts, agushie seeds and/or flour into local Ghanaian diets where deficiency may be expected.

Support or Funding Information

The study was funded by BHEARD (Borlaug Higher Education Agricultural and Research Development)
Effect of concordance with the Mediterranean diet on HDL‐C levels in the cohort of health care workers
Authors: Villalón María , Pérez‐Rodríguez Marcela , Salmeron Jorge , Ramirez Paula
Published: November 2023

Background

Low HDL Cholesterol (HDL‐C) values are associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Evidence suggests that the mediterranean diet can increase HDL‐C levels and therefore reduce the incidence of cardiovascular, however this association seems still inconclusive.

Objective

Investigate the relationship between the degree of concordance to the mediterranean diet and HDL‐C levels in the cohort of health care workers.

Methods

This study was a secondary analysis of the cohort of health care workers in México that included 1800 participants who had a baseline measurement at 2004–2006 and a follow‐up measurement at 2010–2012. Inclusion criteria for this analysis was ≥20 years, normal HDL‐C levels at baseline, and participants using medication to lower serum lipids or heavy drinkers (>2 glasses/day for men and 1 for women) were excluded; 365 participants met the selection criteria. Data on sex, age, socioeconomic status, physical activity and smoking was collected. Weight and height were measured by trained personnel. Diet intake was measured with a 1 year food frequency, concordance with Mediterranean Diet was calculated with the MedDiet Score (MDS). Blood samples were collected to measure serum HDL‐C. A linear regression model was developed to investigate the associations between the MDS and follow up levels of HDL‐C.

Results

Mean age at baseline was 40.2 ± 14.1 yeard, 220 participants (60.4%) were females, mean BMI was 25.1 ± 4.4 kg/m2. When we calculated the score of the MDS, observed that 33.5% had a high concordance with the MedDiet during both measurements, 21.7% had a high concordance only at baseline, 19.5% only at follow‐up and 25.3% had a high concordance at both time‐points. Participants with a high concordance at baseline had 12mg/dL of HDL‐C more than participants with a low concordance with the MedDiet (p<0.05).

Conclusions

A high concordance with the MDS in the past can have beneficial effects on HDL‐C 6 years later, this is in agreement with the literature showing the long‐term effect of diet on health.
The role of short‐chain fatty acid receptor‐mediated macrophages in adipose tissue inflammation
Authors: Hasegawa Sae , Kasubuchi Mayu , Miyamoto Junki , Kimura Ikuo
Published: November 2023

Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate are produced from dietary fiber by the gut microbial fermentation and utilized for host energy sources. Recently, they have been recognized as not only essential host energy sources but also signal transduction molecules to maintain host body energy homeostasis via G protein‐coupled receptor FFAR2 and FFAR3.

In the previous report, we showed that the FFAR2 stimulation in adipocytes suppressed adipocyte‐specific insulin signaling, thereby inhibiting the excessive energy uptake and fat accumulation in adipose tissues. Moreover, it was reported that FFAR2 was abundantly expressed in immune tissues as well as adipose tissues.

We found that FFAR2 expression was significantly increased in LPS‐induced macrophage, and FFAR2‐mediated immune response is related to the suppression of adipose insulin signaling and fat accumulation in adipose tissue. Hence, these further studies will suggest a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of metabolic syndromes such as obesity and diabetes.
Headache, GI symptoms and Intestinal Permeability in Obese Adults
Authors: Moss Olivia , Keshavarzian Ali , Tangney Christy , Shawron Krista , Kester Kelly , Shaikh Maliha , Rasmussen Heather
Published: November 2023

Limited evidence exists concerning the role of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and intestinal barrier function as contributors to headache occurrence. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the relationships between headaches, GI symptoms, and gut barrier function in a largely female sample (n=69) of obese (BMI, 37.6 ± 6.3 kg/m2, mean ± SD) adults, aged 45 ± 11 years. In this cross‐sectional study, 24‐hr urine collected after a sugar challenge was analyzed for sucralose and lactulose concentrations using gas chromatography. 24‐hr sucralose (% oral dose) and the ratio of 24‐hr sucralose/lactulose (24‐hr S/L) were used as markers of intestinal permeability (IP) (median IQR; 24‐hr sucralose, 0.23 [0.32, 1.2] and 24‐hr S/L, 0.23 [0.12, 0.39]). Participants completed a 15‐item headache symptom questionnaire and a clinical GI symptom questionnaire in which each symptom was rated on a 10‐point scale. Thirty‐nine percent of participants reported trouble with headaches (89% were women). Mann Whitney‐U tests were used to assess differences in GI symptom ratings and IP between those with and without headaches. Those with headaches reported greater severity of constipation (p=0.001), diarrhea (p=0.048), irregular bowl habits (p=0.004), infrequent bowel movements (p=0.004), hard stools (p=0.024), and straining with bowel movements (p=0.024). There were no significant differences seen between those with and without headache for 24‐hr sucralose (p=0.069) and 24‐hr S/L (p=0.129), but those with higher IP tended to have more headaches. Logistic regression modeling was performed to assess impact of IP and GI symptoms individually on the likelihood of self‐reported headache. In models containing gender, 24‐hr S/L ratio and individual GI symptoms, significant predictors of headaches were constipation, infrequent bowel movements, and hard stools (e.g., constipation with an odds ratio = 1.4 [95% CI, 1.1–1.8; p=0.007]). In a model containing gender, 24‐hr sucralose, and infrequent bowel movements, both gender and GI symptoms were significant predictors of headache (infrequent bowel movements: odds ratio 1.2 [1.0–1.5], p=0.04; gender: 4.6 [1.1–19.8], p=0.041; and 24‐hr sucralose 2.2 [0.9–5.0], p= 0.06). While preliminary, the relationship between GI symptoms, particularly those associated with constipation and gut barrier function on headache occurrence, should be further explored.

Support or Funding Information

National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2021‐67017‐19344
Effect of Solar Salt and Its Processed Salt on Azoxymethane (AOM) and Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)‐Induced Colonic Cancer (CAC) in Male C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Park Kun‐Young , Ju Jaehyun , Song Jia‐Le
Published: November 2023

We investigated the effect of solar salt on azoxymethane (AOM, 10 mg/kg) and 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis‐associated colonic cancer (CAC) in male C57BL/6J mice for 8 weeks. The CAC mice were orally administrated with water solution (at a concentration of 1027 mg/Kg/day) of purified salt (PS), solar salt from different salt field (SS‐T, SS‐H, SS‐G, SS‐S, SS‐Y) and bamboo salt baked nine times (BS9x), respectively. Of all SS samples, SS‐S and SS‐Y showed anticancer effect; they suppressed shortening of colon, decreased in colon weight and weight‐to‐length ratio and also significantly reduced the mucosal ulcers neoplasia in colon tissue of CAC mice. In addition, they effectively up‐regulated the mRNA levels of pro‐apoptotic Bax, cell cycle‐related p53 and p21, and reduced the Bcl‐2 expression in the colon tissue than those found in PS‐ and the other SS‐treated CAC mice. They also down‐regulated the mRNA levels of pro‐inflammatory levels of iNOS and COX‐2 as well. These results were agreed with that observed inimmunohistochemistry(IHC) assay. Such efficacies were found to have more improved when BS9x, heat‐processed product of SS‐Y, was administered. This study demonstrated that solar salt (especially SS‐S and SS‐Y) and BS9x which is made from SS‐Y by heat processing showed anticancer activity to against AOM/DSS‐induced colon carcinogenesis through reducing the inflammatory cytokines, and modulation of the CAC‐related gene expression in mice.
Establishing that the VM‐M3 Model of Metastatic Cancer Exhibits Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Koutnik Andrew Paul , Poff Angela M , Ward Nathan P , Ramirez Melissa , D'Agostino Dominic P
Published: November 2023

While most cancer deaths are a result of metastatic disease, an estimated one‐third can be attributed to cachexia. Cancer cachexia is characterized by the loss of body weight and skeletal muscle mass, with or without fat loss, that cannot be fully reversed by conventional nutritional support and results in progressive functional impairment. There are many models of cancer cachexia, but none are ideal as they do not address all aspects of this multifaceted syndrome. Furthermore, there are no well characterized models of cancer cachexia associated with spontaneous systemic metastasis although cachexia occurs almost exclusively in patients with metastatic disease. The VM‐M3 model is a syngeneic mouse model derived from a spontaneous brain tumor (GBM) which, when implanted subcutaneously, results in rapid and systemic metastasis throughout the body, including to the liver, lungs, brain, kidneys, and spleen. As such, we sought to determine if cachexia occurs in the VM‐M3 model. Male and female VM/dk mice were randomly assigned to healthy (control) or diseased (VM‐M3 tumor‐bearing) groups. Diseased mice received a subcutaneous implantation of VM‐M3 cells while control animals received a sham injection of PBS. Diseased animals were euthanized at end of life along with an age, sex, and weight‐matched control mouse. Body weight, food intake, tumor growth, and blood glucose, ketones, and cytokine profile were measured weekly. Complete Blood Count was gathered immediately prior to end of life euthanasia. Gastrocnemius diameter and weight, and spleen and liver weight were measured at euthanasia. There was no difference in tumor growth rate or survival time between male and female diseased mice. Food intake and gastrocnemius weight and diameter were decreased in diseased mice of both sexes. Blood glucose, but not ketones, was lower in diseased mice of both sexes. Liver and spleen weights were increased in diseased mice of both sexes. Serum IL‐6 was elevated at 14 days and end‐of–life, while TNF‐α, G‐CSF, and CXCL1 were elevated at end‐of‐life, in diseased mice of both sexes. CXCL1 and CXCL10 were elevated in diseased males at 14 days. White blood cell and lymphocytes were higher, while platelet count and hematocrit were lower in diseased males. Monocytes were elevated in diseased females. Granulocytes were elevated while red blood cell count and hemoglobin were reduced in both diseased males and females.

Support or Funding Information

Scivation, Inc.
Cholesterol homeostasis actors and breast cancer disease severity
Authors: Bard Jean‐Marie , Classe Jean‐Marc , Joalland Marie‐Pierre , Chauvin Anaïs , Bobin‐Dubigeon Christine
Published: November 2023

Background and Objective

Activation of LXR (Liver X Receptor) by nutrients may lead to cholesterol depletion, inhibition of proliferation and apoptosis in cancer cell models. The goal of this study is to relate the expression of some genes driven by LXR with tumor characteristics and time for recurrence.

Methods

ABCA1, ABCG1, ApoE and LXRb gene expression was evaluated by Q‐PCR in 69 frozen tumors obtained at surgery. Gene expression in groups of patients defined by clinical and tumor characteristics was compared by the median or Kruskal Wallis tests and relationship with time for recurrence within 8 years of follow‐up was estimated by the Kaplan‐Meir method.

Results

ABCG1 expression was significantly different according to SBR status of the tumor (1.25 [0.47–8.07], 1.93 [0.66–4.09], 0.93 [0.24–3.46] for SBRI (n=16), SBRII (n=42) and SBRIII (n=11) respectively, p=0.02). SBRIII differed from SBRI (p=0.04) and SBRII (p=0.02). ABCA1 tended to differ according to the SBR status (0.79 [0.27–2.52], 0.71 [0.37–2.84], 0.46 [0.20–1.29] for SBRI, SBRII and SBRIII, p=0.07). ABCG1 was higher in ER+ tumors (N=63) (1.90 [0.47–4.09] vs 0.93 [0.31–1.38], p=0.02) and Apo E expression was lower in PR+ tumors (N=55) (0.76 [0.26–3.61] vs 1.07 [0.06–6.98], p=0.03). No difference was observed in gene expressions according to HER2 status or the TNM stage of the disease. 27 cases of recurrence among the 69 patients studied were observed during the 8 years of follow‐up. However, no significant relationship was observed between gene expression and time for recurrence (Log rank test across quartiles of gene expression: p=0.28, p=0.75, p=0.60, p=0.44, p=0.20 for ABCA1, ABCG1, ApoE, PON2 and LXRb respectively).

Conclusion

Expression of some genes involved in cholesterol trafficking is related to breast cancer tumor characteristics but not with time for recurrence. This absence of any relationship with time for recurrence may be due to lack of power. The interference of diet in the relationship between gene expression and tumor status remains to be elucidated.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Ligue Contre le Cancer Loire Atlantique