bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food‐waste study in 10 classes of first grade students to examine the proposed USDA guidelines for the School Breakfast Program 2011
Authors: Carr Noelle , Kranz Sibylle
Published: June 2021

In January of 2011, the USDA the proposed changes to the current regulations of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. The changes include an increase the amount of foods that the schools are required to offer on a daily basis, a change that could have a significant effect on the schools. To examine the effect of increased food amount at breakfast on food consumption and food waste, this study was designed to compare two groups of first grade students: One group received the food based on the current regulations (control) while the other received the food based on the proposed regulations (test). Attendance data, solid food waste weights, and fluid waste were directly measured daily after breakfast for one week in a total of ten different classrooms. Results indicate that the test group wasted significantly more food than the control group. The students in the test group consumed on average 53.5% of the solid food served; the students in the control group consumed 70.7%. In the school district in which the study was conducted, the test breakfast menu resulted an 38.6% increase in cost/week compared to the control breakfast menu. This data indicate that children do not consume all of the currently offered foods at breakfast and that the proposed regulations may impose a significant increase in both food cost and food waste.

Grant Funding Source: none
Variations in Diet Intake Across Sociodemographic Characteristics and Lifestyles in an Adult Population in San Juan, Puerto Rico (PR)
Authors: colon-ramos uriyoan , Perez-Cardona Cynthia
Published: June 2021

Little is known about socio‐demographics of food consumption in PR. We examined differences in dietary intake (median frequency intake of fruits and vegetables (FV), tubers, fried foods and fast foods) across socio‐demographic and health‐behavior characteristics (age (years (y)), self‐reported physical activity, smoking, alcohol intake in the past 30 days, health insurance) in a representative adult population of the metropolitan area of San Juan, PR (n=858). Mann‐Whitney‐Wilcoxon or Kruskal‐Wallis test was used to assess differences in the distribution of dietary intake.

Frequency of FV consumption increased significantly (p<0.05) with age and education, among Medicare users and non‐current smokers. Tuber consumption was associated with increasing age, Medicare use, and highest (≥16 y) as well uas lowest education (<12 y). Fried food consumption was highest among younger individuals (21–29 y old), males, and those who reported lower education (≤16 y), being uninsured, smoking and alcohol intake. Fast food intake was associated with young age (21–29 y), higher income (≥$20,000), private health insurance, alcohol consumption, and moderate/vigorous physical activity.

Variations in food consumption across socio‐demographic and health‐related characteristics is a first step in suggesting distinctive subpopulations by preference of food, and may help in the design of health promotion messages.
Concomitant use of dietary supplements and prescription medications among U.S. adult civilians with a doctor‐informed chronic disease: NHANES 2005–2008
Authors: Farina Emily Kristin , Austin Krista G , Fulgoni Victor L , Lieberman Harris R
Published: June 2021

Potential interactions between dietary supplements (DS) and prescription medications (PM) is of concern for both military and civilian populations, yet prevalence of concomitant DS and PM use is not well documented. Thus, we determined prevalence and likelihood of DS and PM use as a function of a doctor‐informed, chronic disease (vascular, arthritis, respiratory, liver, renal, thyroid, cancer, osteoporosis, or diabetes) among U.S. civilian adults (n=9,027; mean age=47 y), using National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES), 2005–2008 data. Subjects with a chronic disease were more likely to use DS (OR, 95% CI=1.44, 1.24–1.68), PM (OR, 95% CI=4.17, 3.60–4.83), and concomitantly use DS and PM (OR, 95% CI=3.01, 2.56–3.52) than those without a chronic disease, after adjustment for age, gender, marital status, education, and income. The most prevalent DS used with a PM was a standard multivitamin and mineral (MVM) among those with, and without a chronic disease. However, this prevalence was higher among those with a chronic disease (18.2%±0.5 compared to 7.3%±0.6; P<0.01). Prevalence of individual non‐MVM subgroups and PM was low in both groups (< 2.0%), but combined use of all non‐MVM subgroups with a PM was higher in those with a chronic disease (7.7%±0.5 compared to 2.5%±0.4; P<0.1). These findings demonstrate that presence of a chronic disease may be an important predictor of DS and PM use.
Use of natural health products among pregnant women in Alberta
Authors: Gomez Mariel Fajer , Thomas Stephanie , Loehr Sarah , Field Catherine , McCargar Linda
Published: June 2021

The use of Natural Health Products (NHPs) has been recommended during pregnancy. Six hundred women were followed throughout each trimester of pregnancy. A supplement intake questionnaire was administered at each visit to identify all NHPs that women were consuming. Reported daily intake of folic acid, vitamin D, calcium and iron from supplemental sources was analyzed. More than 90% of the participants reported using NHPs in each trimester. Median daily reported intakes were 1000 mcg of folic acid, 400 IU of vitamin D, 250 mg of calcium and 27 mg of iron in each trimester. Approximately 20% of the study participants had reported intakes above the upper limit for folic acid and iron at some point of their gestation. The use of NHPs is a major contributor to micronutrient intake during each trimester of pregnancy in Canadian women. Funding for this research was generously provided by Alberta Innovates Health Solutions.
Review of select dietary supplement interventions for endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Costello Rebecca B. , Lentino Cindy , Saldanha Leila , Srinivas Pothur , Sempos Chris
Published: June 2021

Dietary supplements (DS) have been purported to affect endothelial function and reduce cardiovascular disease risk. A systematic PubMed search (January 2000 to July 2011) identified 586 clinical trials that utilized DS, along with a standardized vascular function measure, in healthy and at risk subjects. 56 randomized controlled trials met the selection criteria for folic acid, omega‐3 fatty acids, cocoa, and isoflavones. The review utilized scoring criteria for design quality (Jadad, 1996), DS test material quality (CONSORT botanical guidelines; Gagnier, 2006), and nutrient reporting guidelines (Chung, 2009). Preliminary results: mean Jadad scores were 3.62, 3.12, 3.33, 3.60 (out of 5), for folic acid, omega‐3 fatty acids, cocoa, and isoflavones, respectively. For DS receiving a CONSORT score, cocoa and isoflavones, 92.6% of papers reported the DS proprietary name, 44.4% reported dosage, duration, and rationale for dose used, and only 14.8% reported chemical analysis prior to use. All four DS received a nutrient quality score. 73.2% of the papers reported the DS source or supplier, 60.7% reported dosage and duration, 53.6% provided baseline nutrient biomarker assessment, and 32.1% provided baseline nutrient assessment. While Jadad scores were comparable across DS, nutrient quality scores ranked higher for cocoa and isoflavones compared to folic acid and omega‐3 fatty acids (p<0.05).
Grocery store podcast about omega‐3 fatty acids positively impacted shopping behavior
Authors: Bangia Deepika , Palmer Debra M , Johnson Charita
Published: June 2021

The development of means for imparting nutrition education in a timely fashion is imperative given the ever‐changing food market. A grocery store podcast (digital audio media file that can be downloaded from the web onto any mp3 player) was developed to inform shoppers about the health benefits of omega‐3s (n‐3s) and how to increase the consumption of n‐3 rich foods. This study was designed to assess if, as a result of consumers listening to a podcast while shopping, they increased their awareness of n‐3 rich foods and altered their purchasing behaviors. This quasi‐experimental study employed a repeated measures survey design with a convenience sample of grocery shoppers (N=56) recruited from a popular grocery store in Central New Jersey. Shoppers completed a pre‐intervention survey, listened to the podcast as they shopped, then completed the post‐intervention survey, after which they received $10.00 compensation. The survey assessed their perceived ability to shop for and perceived importance of n‐3 rich foods. Most participants were female (n=44) with mean age of 41±15.3 years. Participants’ perceived ability to shop for n‐3 rich foods (t(55) = 6.27, p < .0001) and their perceived importance regarding buying n‐3 rich foods (t(55) = 3.38, p < .01) improved significantly. At least one n‐3 rich food purchase was reportedly made by 30% of participants after listening to the podcast and 79% indicated they planned such purchases in the future. The average number of 80 n‐3 rich foods was 1.52±0.8. These results show that podcasts may be an effective means of communicating nutrition education messages. More research with a larger sample size followed over a longer period is needed to verify these findings and assess long term behavior change.
A randomized trial of genetic information for personalized nutrition on behaviour outcomes
Authors: Nielsen Daiva E , El-Sohemy Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Personal genetic information has become increasingly accessible to the public as a result of direct‐to‐consumer genetic tests, however, concerns have been raised over their value and potential risks. We compared the effects of providing genotype‐based dietary advice with general recommendations on behaviour outcomes using a randomized controlled study. Subjects aged 20–35 years (n=138) were randomized to an intervention (I) or control (C) group and were given a report of either genotype‐based or general dietary advice, respectively. A survey was completed to assess understanding and opinions of the reports. Responses were given on a 5‐point scale ranging from “strongly agree” to “strongly disagree”. Subjects reporting “strongly agree” or “somewhat agree” were grouped and the chi‐square test was used to compare frequency of “agree” to all other responses. Subjects in the intervention group were more likely to agree that they understood the report (93% (I) vs. 78% (C); p=0.009), that the advice would be useful when considering diet (88% (I) vs. 72% (C); p=0.02) and that they would like to know more about the dietary advice (95% (I) vs. 76% (C); p=0.001). Only 9% of subjects in the intervention group reported feeling uneasy about learning their genetic information. These findings suggest that individuals find dietary recommendations based on genetics more understandable and more useful than general dietary advice.

Grant Funding Source : Advanced Foods and Materials Network
Evaluation of oxidative stress and energy metabolism in the heart of rats supplemented with different vitamin D doses
Authors: Santos Priscila Portugal , Rafacho Bruna , Ardisson Lidiane , Gonçalves Andrea , Pires Vanessa , Minicucci Marcos , Azevedo Paula , Campana Alvaro , Fernandes Ana Angelica , Zornoff Leonardo , Paiva Sergio
Published: June 2021

The aim was to evaluate of different vitamin D supplementation doses in the heart of normal rats.

Methods

86 male rats allocated into 4 groups: control (C, n=21) received standard chow; D3 (n=22), D5 (n=22) and D10 (n=21) received 3000, 5000 and 10000 IU of cholecalciferol/kg chow for 2 months

Results

Lipid hydroperoxide was higher in D10 compared to other groups (C=143.8±13.9; D3=143.8±13.9; D5=176.3±16.1; D10=179.6±11.8 nmol/g tissue; p<0.001); the activity of antioxidants enzymes: superoxide dismutase was lower in the supplemented groups (C=21.6±4.1; D3=12.9±1.2; D5=13.2±1.7; D10=13.1±1.4 nmol/g protein; p<0,001) and glutathione peroxidase was lower in D3 and D10 compared to the C (C=40.4±6.2; D3=31.5±4.6; D5=35.5±5.2; D10=29.7±3.1 ìmol/g tissue; p<0,001). Activity of the enzymes: â‐hydroxyacyl coenzyme‐A dehydrogenase was lower in D5 and D10 compared to C and D3(C=69.9±3.8; D3=65.8±4.6; D5=44.7±3.3; D10=34.4±1.8 nmol/mg; p<0.001); citrate synthase was lower in D10 compared to other groups (C=39.8±3.2; D3=40.4±2.8; D5=39.7±2.7; D10=34.5±4.0; umol/g tissue; p=0.003) and lactate dehydrogenase (C=220±6.4; D3=209±3.6; D%=199±4.1; D10=256±3.4 nmol/mg; p<0.001) was higher in D10 compared to other groups. Vitamin D treatment showed dose‐dependent effect.

Conclusion

Normal rats supplemented with vitamin D3 presented higher oxidative stress and changes of cardiac energy metabolism.
Vitamin D supplementation increases true fractional calcium absorption in the absence of caloric restriction
Authors: Shapses Sue A , Sukumar Deeptha , Schlussel Yvette , Schneider Stephen H , Ambia-Sobhan Hasina
Published: June 2021

Caloric restriction is associated with a decrease in true fractional calcium absorption (TFCA). We examined whether vitamin D supplementation would attenuate the decrease in TFCA associated with weight loss (WL). Seventy‐seven women (58 ± 5.9 years of age; BMI of 30.2 ± 3.6 kg/m2; serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25OHD] = 24.8 ± 5.7 ng/mL) were randomized into 4 groups (n=18–20/group) to receive either vitamin D supplementation (D) or placebo (Pl) and undergo WL or maintain their body weight (WM) over 6 weeks. The women received either 2500 IU/d [2100 IU D3 plus 400 IU from multivitamin (MV)] or 400 IU/d [Placebo plus 400 IU from MV] of vitamin D3 with 1.2 g Ca/d in all groups. Subjects in the WL group lost 3.8 ± 1.2% body weight with no differences between the D or Pl groups. Vitamin D did not influence calcitriol (1,25OH2D) but increased 25OHD. The 25OHD rise was greater during WL (WL‐D, +8 ± 6 ng/mL) vs. WM‐D (+3 ± 4 ng/m) (p < 0.01). WL decreased TFCA (p<0.01). D treatment suppressed PTH and increased TFCA (p<0.02). The TFCA change from baseline was greater (p < 0.01) in WM‐D (+0.037 ± 0.052) than WL‐D (−0.006 ± 0.036). TFCA change in the WL‐D group did not differ significantly from the WL‐Pl group (−0.026 ± 0.039). Since the rise in 25OHD in the WL‐D was more than double the WM‐D group and there was no rise in 1,25OH2D, other mechanisms are likely also contributing to the regulation of TFCA during caloric restriction. Supported by NIH‐AG12161.
Intradialytic Protein Supplementation Improves Co‐Morbid Disease Risk in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Tomayko Emily , Yudell Barbara , Jeanes Elizabeth , Kistler Brandon , Fitschen Peter , Jeong Jin Hee , Wu Pei-Tzu , Chung Hae Ryong , Evans Ellen , Wilund Kenneth
Published: June 2021

Advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive inflammatory disorder associated with co‐morbid conditions that greatly reduce physical function and quality of life. This study investigated the effects of six months of intradialytic protein supplementation on CKD co‐morbidities. Twenty‐eight hemodialysis patients were randomized to receive a beverage of 27g whey protein (WHEY, n=8), 27g soy protein (SOY, n=10), or non‐caloric placebo (CON, n=10) before every dialysis session. At baseline and six months, physical function was measured by shuttle walk test and gait speed, markers of inflammation by ELISA, and bone density by DXA. When protein groups were combined (PRO), walk test distance increased (p<0.05) and gait speed improved (p<0.05) compared to CON. Inflammation was reduced (interleukin‐6, PRO, p<0.05; neutrophil:lymphocyte, SOY, p<0.05; acute phase protein ferritin, WHEY, p<0.05); change in IL‐6 was negatively correlated with change in walk test (r=−0.373, p=0.56). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), a marker of bone and cardiovascular disease risk, was reduced (PRO, p<0.05) and change in ALP was negatively correlated with change in whole body bone density (WbBMD) (r=−0.608, p<0.01). There was a trend for increased WbBMD in SOY (p=0.06). These results suggest benefits of chronic intradialytic protein administration, representing a low‐cost therapeutic approach for a critically ill population.

Grant Funding Source : NIH 1 RO1 DK084016‐01
Dose response association of glycemic index with CHD risk: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective cohorts
Authors: Mirrahimi Arash , de Souza Russell J , Chiavaroli Laura , Sievenpiper John L , Beyene Joseph , Hanley Anthony J , Augustin Livia SA , Kendall Cyril WC , Jenkins David JA
Published: June 2021

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) events are responsible for about a third of all deaths in developed countries. Glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) have been associated with CHD risk in some cohort studies but a dose response has not been established.

Aims

To conduct a meta‐analysis of GI and GL dose response association with CHD risk in cohort studies.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL for prospective cohorts of GI and GL associations with primary incidence of CHD events. Measures of risk estimation with their respective GI and GL exposure doses were pooled using random effects generalized least squares linear models and linear spline piecewise regression models to investigate dose response trends. Data were expressed as change in percent risk of CHD per unit GI with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

9 studies were eligible, 7 had complete data for dose response analyses. No significant linear trends were observed for GI or GL dose, but in female cohorts the gradient of GI versus CHD risk was 0.15% [95%CI; 0.008–0.284] up to a GI of 78 and significantly increased to 3.82% [95%CI; 0.621–7.021] thereafter.

Conclusion

These results suggest a threshold effect may exist for the association of GI with CHD events in women.

Funding: Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Grant Funding Source : ASN
High‐dose oral vitamin D3 administration increases serum and prostate levels of vitamin D metabolites safely in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Wagner Dennis , Van der Kwast Theodorus , Dias Andre , Klotz Laurence , Fleshner Neil , Finelli Antonio , Vieth Reinhold
Published: June 2021

Objective

To characterize the effect of high doses of vitamin D (VD) on its metabolite levels in prostate tissue.

Methods

Vitamin D3 doses (400‐, 10,000‐, or 40,000 IU/d) were randomized equally to 48 prostate cancer patients for 3–8 wk prior to radical prostatectomy. Surgical prostate tissue and serum were assayed for 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3], 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], and VD binding protein (DBP). Free VD metabolite indices were calculated as the ratio between VD metabolite and DBP concentrations. Plasma and urine calcium were monitored for safety.

Results

Serum 25(OH)D3 increased dose‐dependently over time (p<0.01). Serum 1,25(OH)2D increased with 10,000‐and 40,000 IU/d only (p<0.01). Prostate 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D, as well as their free indices, were higher with 40,000 IU/d compared to the other doses (p<0.02). Free 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D indices were significantly higher in prostate than serum (p<0.001). Calcium levels did not increase adversely with dosing.

After dosing (mean ± SD)
400 IU/d
10,000 IU/d
40,000 IU/d
P (ANOVA)

Serum 25(OH)D3 (nmol/L)
69 ± 15
128 ± 30
296 ± 69
<0.001

Serum 1,25(OH)2D (pmol/L)
119 ± 45
143 ± 36
176 ± 40
<0.001

Prostate 25(OH)D3 (nmol/kg)
94 ± 24
116 ± 27
179 ± 72
<0.001

Prostate 1,25(OH)2D (pmol/kg)
29 ± 12
29 ± 10
42 ± 19
0.01

Conclusion

High vitamin D3 intake produced the elevated levels of VD metabolites within prostate hypothesized to protect against cancer.

Grant Funding Source: Canadian Cancer Society
Inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B activation in early stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia by omega 3 fatty acids
Authors: Fahrmann Johannes Francois , Ballester Oscar , Ballester Gabriela , Witte Theodore , Salazar Alexander , Ion Gabriela , Primerano Donald , Boskovic Goran , Denvir James , Hardman Elaine
Published: June 2021

Targeting the NFκB pathway has been proposed for therapy of various malignancies including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Omega 3 (n‐3) fatty acids consumption reduced NFκB activation in animals. Our pilot study tested the hypothesis that consumption of an n‐3 supplement would suppress NFκB activation in lymphocytes of patients with early stage CLL. The Marshall University Institutional Review Board reviewed and approved the protocol for this study under a Federal Wide Assurance (FWA #00002704) with the Office of Human Research Protections. Following informed consent, participants consumed an n‐3 supplement initially containing 2.4 g n‐3/day gradually increasing to 7.2 g n‐3/day. Blood cell counts and assay for NFκB activation of lymphocytes were performed before n‐3 initiation and monthly afterwards. Lymphocytes from 5 healthy individuals established normal NFκB activation. After n‐3 consumption: (1) n‐3 was increased in both red and white blood cells of all participants; (2) NFκB activation was suppressed in lymphocytes of all patients following consumption of n‐3; (3) expression of 32 genes in lymphocytes was significantly decreased by n‐3 in patients with higher initial NFκB activation. There was no disease progression. Omega 3 consumption suppressed NFκB activation in patients’ lymphocytes and would be expected to slow progression of early stage CLL.

Grant Funding Source : Institutional Funds
Successful strategies and barriers to community gardening in metro Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Self Julie Lynn , Wyatt Amanda , Girard Aimee Webb
Published: June 2021

Community gardens (CGs) promote personal and community health by creating access to fresh produce and strengthening communities. CGs can vary by purpose, organizational structure, size, crops and role in the community. Successful strategies and barriers to viable CGs are not well‐understood. This research characterizes CGs in two urban counties in Atlanta, Georgia. A list of CGs was compiled from information provided by key stakeholders, and solicitations for information to CG leadership were made. School‐based and therapy gardens were excluded. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a diverse sample of garden leaders to better understand the (1) relationship of the garden and community, (2) barriers to feasibility and accessibility of the CG, (3) successful strategies (4) motivating factors for garden creation and involvement, and (5) elements that keep CGs sustainable. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed for common themes. Benefits and purposes of CGs vary by community. CGs foster access to fresh food, knowledge and community connections. Primary barriers to creating and sustaining CGs are leadership constraints, reliable access to natural resources and unclear regulations. Better characterizing urban CGs leads to greater understanding of their benefits, tips for creating and sustaining CGs and leveraging CGs to promote personal and community health.
Understanding American‐Indian Children's Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Following the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA)
Authors: Jahns Lisa , Wadsworth Ann , Morin Charlie , McDonald Leander R.
Published: June 2021

Ninety‐two American Indian 5th graders from a rural, northern plains reservation community completed Nominal Group Technique (NGT) sessions designed to understand both barriers and facilitators to following DGA. Individually and in small groups, children generated lists of responses to specific questions, then ranked responses as a group. Environmental concerns were perceived as barriers to being physically active (“cops yell at us”; “it's too cold”; “too much glass”; “dogs”), to fruit, (“there is only a little bit at home”) and vegetable (“cost too much”; school don't have the kind I like”) consumption. Children also reported intrinsic barriers to consuming fruits (“don't like them much”) and vegetables (“they smell funny”). Facilitators to following DGA recommendations for fruit consumption referred to hedonic values (“fruit is good”; “fruits make me happy”), while facilitators for vegetable consumption were prescriptive (“put vegetables out for lunch”; “make a garden and plant vegetables”). While it is clear that features of the food and built environment contribute to children's lack of compliance to the DGA, responses indicate that room exists for improving children's health behavior knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
In vitro models of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE): Xanthophyll uptake, metabolism and pathway‐specific gene expression
Authors: Marisiddaiah Raju , Gong Xiaoming , Wiener Doris , Rubin Lewis P
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Dietary lutein (LUT) & zeaxanthin (ZEA) comprise macular pigment and may decrease risk/severity of retinal diseases through the lifespan. LUT/ZEA accumulate in RPE and protect against oxidant and photo‐damage. We established RPE cell conditions to define LUT/ZEA dynamics and study retinal pathobiology

Methods

Post‐confluent human RPE (ARPE‐19) cells were maintained up to 4–5wks. LUT uptake, metabolism and exchange were determined by HPLC. RPE genes were analyzed by qRT‐PCR and western blotting.

Results

ARPE cells adopt different phenotypes depending on culture conditions and duration. We defined ‘early’ (2–5d) and ‘late’ (4–5wk) cells. LUT accumulates in time‐ and dose‐dependent manners; uptake remains unsaturated for ≥72h; cellular LUT also shows a slow, constant exchange. LUT treatment also differently alters gene expression, including receptors, carotenoid cleavage enzymes, metabolic genes, and xanthophyll binding proteins. At both timepoints, ARPE cells express CMO2>>CMO1.

Conclusion

ARPE‐19 cells show LUT uptake, metabolism, transport and downstream gene effects. Our findings support the role of CMO2 in LUT metabolism. ‘Early’ (maturing) ARPE‐19 cells are a useful model to study mechanisms of LUT/ZEA in RPE maturation and stress‐inducible retinal pathologies.

Grant Funding Source : NIH, USF, Abbott Nutrition
Intergenerational Transmission of Factors that Determine Infant Feeding Practices: a Qualitative Approach to Examining Guatemalan Maternal Experiences
Authors: Garcia Rosario , Padilla Oscar , Doak Colleen M , Vossenaar Marieke , Solomons Noel W
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To explore mothers’ views and behaviors regarding infant feeding practices (IFP) and to determine how grandmothers and other actors’ influences might be leveraged for enforcing appropriate IFP.

Methods

Mothers of children, aged <24 mo, of both Mayan and mixed‐European ascent, were recruited for qualitative research inquiry in the urban area of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. Data was collected using semi‐structured informant interviews and reflective dialogues in focus groups. Sessions were recorded and transcribed. Information was synthesized around the concept of “agency.”

Findings

The notion that infants require certain foods to avoid illness and suffering represents a powerful ideology that influential grandmother‐generation females figures (mothers, mothers‐in‐law, aunts) transmit to nursling's mothers through mechanisms such as fear messages. Moreover, both generations share a common belief that infants innately prompt mothers to begin introduction of certain foods; this reveals an infant‐to‐mother‐directed influence on IFP.

Conclusions

Future community education initiatives should consider interpersonal and subjective determinants of IFP to promote maternal agency and the active participation of actors in both bracketing generations who influence the mothers’ IFP.

Financed by the Nestlé Foundation and Sight & Life, Switzerland
Designing a culturally sensitive intervention to promote healthy eating and physical activity behavior in children and their parents in rural Louisiana communities
Authors: Johnson Glenda Stein , McGee Bernestine B. , Johnson Crystal , Richardson Valerie
Published: June 2021

Rural African American children are experiencing a high prevalence of overweight and obesity. Formative research guided the design of a culturally sensitive intervention that would assist families in the Lower Mississippi Delta in adopting eating and physical activity patterns consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005 (DGA, 2005), and thereby reducing weight gain and associated risk factors for obesity‐related chronic diseases. A community advisory committee, focus groups, and data from previous research in this region contributed to information relative to ethnic/cultural characteristics, norms, values, beliefs, and behavioral patterns of the target population. Using the surface and deep‐structure framework, researchers identified content and a variety of strategies to form the culturally sensitive intervention. The main surface‐structure intervention component included modifying the family obesity prevention program, WE CAN! (Ways to Enhance Children's Activity and Nutrition) to reflect the ethnicity, reading level, food and physical activity lifestyles of the participants. Maintaining strong families was identified as a dominant deep‐surface component. Reflections on the historical African American family provide motivation for recommended behavioral changes. Classes included in the intervention are on healthy eating and physical activity, stages of change, goal setting, self‐efficacy, and positive parental feeding methods. Demonstrations for modifying traditional and Cajun‐influenced recipes to adhere to DGA, 2005 are important elements of the intervention. Further research will examine the efficacy of using a culturally sensitive intervention to assist families in promoting healthy eating and physical activity behavior.
A Plasma Retinome in School Aged Children of Nepal
Authors: West Keith P. , Cole Robert N. , Schulze Kerry , Ruczinski Ingo , Christian Parul , Shrestha Sudeep , Wu Lee , Yager James , Groopman John D.
Published: June 2021

Vitamin A (VA) deficiency remains a major public health concern. Yet its assessment remains difficult, leaving evidence gaps for program targeting and evaluation. We are exploring the existence and validity of a plasma retinome as a novel basis for assessing future population VA status. Plasma samples from Nepalese children 6–8 yrs (n=280 to date) were obtained, processed, transported and stored by standard methods, analyzed by HPLC for retinol (mean + SD = 1.03±0.27 μmol/L) and mined by tandem MS iTRAQ and bioinformatics analyses to identify and quantify relative abundance of plasma proteins. Of 293 unique proteins identified in all subjects with 95% confidence, 88 are correlated with retinol [p<0.05, p (false discovery) = q <0.08; 62 at p<0.01 and q<0.01]. Strong correlations with retinol‐binding protein 4 (p=1.30E‐45; q=1.99E‐43, r2 =0.52, r=0.72), transthyretin (p=1.64E‐22; q=1.25E‐20, r2 =0.29, r=0.54) and apoliproteins A and C (all p< 2.15E‐07 ; q<3.00E‐06, r2>0.09, r>0.30 ), and a plethora of negatively correlated acute phase biomarkers, reveal a valid plasma retinome. Based on functional annotation clustering (DAVID Bioinformatics Resources, v6.7) proteins in the plasma retinome are associated with signaling [enrichment score (ES) 38.05 ), host defenses, complement and coagulation cascade (ES 8.13 ), lipid transport (ES 4.9), enzyme inhibition (ES 8.9) and proteolysis (ES 5.65 ). A large number of diverse, covarying proteins reveals the complexity of VA biology and a potentially predictive plasma retinome. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (Grant GH 5241).
Giardia duodenalis: A model of pathogen‐mediated disruptions in the human microbiota in leading to the development of chronic gastrointestinal disease
Authors: Beatty Jennifer , Akierman Sarah , Ceri Howard , Rioux Kevin , Beck Paul , Buret Andre
Published: June 2021

Giardia duodenalis is a key pathogen causing post‐infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome (PI‐IBS) symptoms. Underlying mechanisms are unknown, but disruptions in species distribution of the intestinal microbiota in IBS patients have been reported. The intestinal microflora exists in biofilm communities, and the effects of enteropathogens on this phenotype, in the context of PI‐IBS, remain obscure.

Aim

To study effects of Giardia on the structure, species, and pathogenic profile of microflora biofilms.

Methods

Representative intestinal mucosal biofilms were cultured from human colonic mucosal biospy samples.

Results

Giardia enhances the presence of Clostridiales spp. in microflora biofilms. Giardia promotes planktonic growth in microflora biofilms by disrupting normal polysaccharide production. Giardia‐exposed biofilms induce higher levels of enterocyte apoptosis than ones incubated with control biofilms.

Conclusion

Giardia exposed biofilms exhibit altered structure and species composition in human microflora biofilms, and promote enterocyte apoptosis, highlighting detrimental effects of a pathogen‐modified microflora in the bowel. Supported by NSERC
Effect of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Genotype on Outcomes after Experimental Thromboembolic Stroke
Authors: Sazonova Irina Y , Hoda Md Nasrul , Zemskova Marina A , Hess David C
Published: June 2021

Acute ischemic stroke is the one of leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. African Americans have higher risk of stroke incidence and death that is associated with endothelial dysfunction and reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide. We propose that endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout (eNOS−/−) or heterozygote (eNOS+/−) mice may be a suitable model of African American stroke.

Methods

The eNOS−/− and C57BL/6J mice were crossed to obtain eNOS+/−MAT and eNOS+/−PAT offspring (30±3 weeks; 13 mice/group). Embolic stroke was initiated by injection of a thrombus to the right middle cerebral artery. Cerebral blood flow was recorded to confirm occlusion. At 24 hours, the neurological status and brains were analyzed.

Results

eNOS−/− mice were characterized by small litter size and high pup mortality. The final body weight was similar among eNOS+/−MAT, eNOS+/−PAT, and eNOS−/− mice, but significantly lower than in wild type mice (28.0±1.8 vs. 31.4±1.9; p<0.001). Cerebral blood flow, infarct size, and neurological scores were comparable in all groups. However, all nitric oxide knockout mice had markedly increased mortality compared with wild type mice (46% vs. 23%).

Conclusion

eNOS−/− or eNOS+/− mice may be used as a model of the cerebrovascular complications associated with abnormalities in nitric oxide signaling as seen in African Americans.

Research support: NIH‐R21 award and GHSU start‐up to I.Y.S.
The effect of consuming cooked beans before a meal on post meal concentrations of gastrointestinal peptide hormones
Authors: Griffith Lisa , Tonstad Serena , Malik Neal , Paalani Michael , Bahjri Khaled , Haddad Ella
Published: June 2021

Background

Cooked dry beans as a source of fiber and slow eating are factors linked to control of energy intake. We examined the effect of consuming 0.5 cups of beans 15 minutes before a meal on concentrations of gastrointestinal (GI) peptides.

Methods

A randomized crossover design was used to measure GI peptide responses to 2 test meals in 26 healthy obese adults.

Subjects consumed a standardized breakfast meal on each test day followed by 1 of 2 test lunch meals: Control (C) a meal incorporating 0.5 cups of cooked beans, and an isocaloric Beans Before (BB) a meal in which 0.5 cups of beans were consumed 15 minutes before the meal. Blood samples were obtained prior to the meal and at 30, 60, 120, and 180 minutes following the consumption of the test meal and analyzed for unacylated ghrelin, acylated ghrelin, peptide YY, glucagon‐like peptide and oxyntomodulin by ELISA. The area under the curve (AUC; concentration*time) was evaluated using the trapezoidal method and compared using t‐tests.

Results

The AUC for acylated ghrelin was significantly lower for the BB meal compared to the C meal with a mean (95% CI) 4.20 pg/L*min (2.60, 5.80) versus 6.05 pg/L*min (3.53, 8.57) (P=0.003); and that for glucagon‐like peptide 181 pmol/L*min (78, 285) for the BB meal versus 201 (96, 305) (P=0.02) for the C meal.

Conclusion

The consumption of 0.5 cups of cooked beans before the meal acutely inhibited unacylated ghrelin and glucagon‐like peptide.

Funded by the Lifestyle Centers of America.
The contribution of gastrointestinal appetite hormones to protein‐induced satiety
Authors: Astrup Arne , Belza Anita , Sørensen Mejse Quistorff , Ritz Christian , Holst Jens Juul , Rehfeld Jens Frederik
Published: June 2021

Objective

To investigate the satiating effect of meals with varying meat‐based protein content and any dose‐effect on appetite‐regulating hormones and appetite ratings.

Design

Twenty‐six men (age: 30.0±8.7y, BMI: 25.9±4.7kg/m2) participated in a 3‐way, randomized, double‐blind, crossover study. Test meals were isocaloric with 30E% fat and were: high protein (HP, 50E% protein), medium‐high protein (MHP, 25E% protein), and normal protein (NP, 14E% protein). Subjective appetite ratings and blood samples were assessed every half‐hour over 4 hours.

Results

MHP increased GLP‐1 by 10% (P=0.02), PYY by 7% (P=0.0002) and glucagon by 122% (P<0.0001) over NP. HP increased GLP‐1 by 20% (P<0.0001), PYY by 14% (P<0.0001) and glucagon by 53% (P<0.0001) for HP over NP. No dose‐dependent response was seen in CCK, GIP, ghrelin or insulin but differences were observed after intake of HP vs. NP (P<0.05). Satiety increased by 16% by HP and by 7% by MHP compared to NP (P<0.001). Ratings of fullness, hunger and prospective consumption were only different for HP compared to NP (P<0.0001). There was a dose‐dependent increase in composite appetite score (appetite suppression) (P<0.0001).

Conclusion

Dose‐dependent effects of protein were found suggesting that the satiety hormones are partly responsible for the appetite suppressant effect of meat protein.

The present study was funded by the Danish Meat Association.
Effects of Increased Dietary Protein at Breakfast on Appetite Control & Energy Intake Throughout the Day in Overweight ‘Breakfast Skipping’ Teen Girls
Authors: Leidy Heather J , Ortinau Laura C , Douglas Steve M , Hoertel Heather A
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To examine whether a higher‐protein (HP) vs. normal‐protein (NP) breakfast leads to daily improvements in appetite control and energy intake regulation in overweight ‘breakfast skipping’ (BS) girls.

Methods

Twenty girls (age 19 ±1 y; BMI 28.6 ± 0.7 kg/m2; BS 6 ± 1 x/wk) randomly consumed 350 kcal breakfast meals containing NP cereals (15% Protein (13 g); 65% CHO; 20% Fat) or HP, egg and beef‐based foods (40% Protein (35 g); 40% CHO; 20% Fat) for 7 consecutive days. On day 7 of each pattern, a 10 h testing day was completed. At the onset of the respective breakfast, perceived appetite/satiety questionnaires and blood sampling were completed every 30 min. A standard lunch occurred 4 h post‐breakfast; an ad libitum dinner was consumed 4 h post‐lunch, and ad libitum snacks were packed out to be consumed at home throughout the evening.

Results

The HP breakfast led to greater increases in perceived satiety, reductions in ghrelin, and increases in PYY responses vs. NP (p<0.05, all). HP breakfast also led to reduced snacking, particularly of foods high in fat vs. NP (energy content: 486 ± 84 vs. 621 ± 110 kcal; p=0.07; fat content: 17.4 ± 3.6 vs. 23.8 ± 4.4 g; p<0.05).

Conclusions

A higher protein breakfast meal containing 35 g of protein improved appetite control, satiety, and reduced unhealthy snacking in ‘breakfast skipping’ overweight teenage girls. Support: Beef Checkoff & the American Egg Board/Egg Nutrition Center
The effect of sugars in solution on subjective appetite and short‐term food intake in normal weight boys
Authors: Van Engelen Marissa , Armstrong Tove , Rossiter Melissa , Eskritt Michelle , Bellissimo Nick
Published: June 2021

The role of sugars in solution in regulating appetite and food intake (FI) has received little investigation in children. Therefore, we examined the effect of sugars solutions (200 kcal) containing glucose, high‐fructose corn syrup‐55 (HFCS‐55), and sucrose on appetite and FI compared to a sucralose control in 9–14 y old normal weight (NW) boys. NW boys (n=15) received in random order four equally sweetened solutions containing sucralose (0 kcal), glucose, HFCS‐55 or sucrose made up to 250 mL with water 2 h after a standardized breakfast. FI (mean kcal ± SEM) at an ad libitum pizza meal was measured 60 min later. Subjective appetite was measured at baseline and at 15, 30, 45, 60 and 90 min. Compared to sucralose (1127 ± 56), glucose reduced FI by 18% (975 ± 58; P < 0.01), however, HFCS‐55 (1075 ± 65) and sucrose (1074 ± 81) failed to result in a statistically significant decrease in FI. Caloric compensation scores for glucose, HFCS‐55 and sucrose were 76%, 26% and 26% respectively. Fat‐mass correlated positively with FI (r = 0.75, P < 0.01). Change from baseline average appetite was higher after sucrose compared to all other treatments (P < 0.01). We conclude that glucose, when compared to the other sugars solutions, produces greater physiological effects on FI in NW boys. Grant Funding Source: MSVU New Investigator Award.

Grant Funding Source: MSVU New Investigator Award
Short term effects of chewing gum on satiety and snack intake in healthy weight and obese women
Authors: Park Eunyoung , Thomas Sarah , Wuchner Brittany , Huang Yancui , Alandete Lourdes , Inuit Taichi , Kergoat Sophie , Edirisinghe Indika , Burton-Freeman Britt
Published: June 2021

Previous research indicates that chewing gum (CG) after lunch can increase satiety ratings and reduce subsequent intake of sweet snacks in restrained women. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CG in healthy weight (HW) and obese (OB) unrestrained women and to assess possible mechanisms of action. In a randomized, 2‐arm cross‐over study, 28 women (n=15 HW, n=13 OB) completed to test the effects of CG vs. no CG after a fixed lunch meal on post‐meal subjective satiety, snack intake, glucose, insulin and cholecystokinin (CCK). CG once per hour for 15 min for 3 hr after lunch, significantly suppressed hunger, desire to eat and prospective consumption and increased fullness in HW (p<0.001). CG suppressed desire to eat (p=0.0002) and prospective consumption (p=0.0008) in OB. Snack intake was marginally reduced by CG in HW (p=0.07) and this was specific to the sweet, high carbohydrate, low fat snack (p=0.01). Total daily energy intake was less after the CG condition compared to the non‐CG condition in HW (p=0.046). CCK was marginally enhanced by CG, but not significantly different (p=0.12). No remarkable differences for glucose or insulin responses after CG vs no‐CG were apparent. The results provide new insights about how non‐nutritive mastication impacts satiety in HW and OB women and offers new direction for future research to better understand the role of oral food processing.

Supported by Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company
Modulatory effects of mesenchymal stem cells on hepatic mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production in dietary‐induced insulin resistance
Authors: Nyamandi Vongai Ziviso , Hughey Curtis , Johnsen Virginia , Virtanen Heidi , Hittel Dustin , Shearer Jane
Published: June 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are thought to exert their effects in part by limiting oxidative stress. Of therapeutic interest are the effects of MSCs in insulin resistance, a cause of elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we analyzed the antioxidant activity of MSCs in the dietary‐induced insulin resistant C57BL6 model. Male mice were placed on either a chow (CH) or high fat (HFF, 60% kcal) diet for 18wk. Over a 6d period, mice received two serial injections of either murine serum or MSC enriched serum (2 million cells/injection, separated by 2d) via the tail vein. Analyses included cell survival, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, respirometry and levels of hepatic mitochondrial ROS production. HFF mice were obese (31±2g vs. 46±3g) and hyperglycemic. Results demonstrated no difference in glucose tolerance or insulin resistance with MSCs. Interestingly, MSCs did not alter the rate of ROS production in CH (H2O2 production: 0.68±0.14 pmol.min−1μg−1 in CH‐MSC vs. 0.63±0.11 pmol.min−1μg−1 in CH‐Serum) but significantly reduced mitochondrial ROS production in HFF (4.85±0.39 vs. 0.72±0.17 pmol.min−1μg−1). In conclusion, short‐term MSC treatment does not impact hyperglycemia but significantly reduces rates of hepatic mitochondrial ROS production. Results invite further exploration into the specific mechanisms by which MSCs reduce ROS in insulin resistant states.

Support: HSF, CDA, AIHS
Lower prediagnostic serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentration is associated with increased incidence of type 1 diabetes in the U. S. military: a nested case‐control study
Authors: Gorham Edward Doerr , Garland Cedric Frank , Burgi Alina , Mohr Sharif Burgette , Zeng Kenneth , Hofflich Heather , Ricordi Camillo
Published: June 2021

Low serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration may increase risk of Type 1 diabetes. This is the first study to describe an inverse association of 25(OH)D with Type 1 diabetes incidence, using serum collected before diagnosis. A nested case‐control study was done using serum collected during 2002–2008 from service members. 1000 subjects subsequently developed Type 1 diabetes. A healthy control was individually matched to each case on blood draw date (± 2 days), age (± 3 months), length of service (± 30 days), and gender. Matched pairs and conditional logistic regression were performed. Odds ratios for Type 1 diabetes by quintile of serum 25(OH)D, from lowest to highest, were 3.5 (95% CI, 2.0–6.0), 2.5 (1.5–4.2), 0.8 (0.4–1.4), 1.1 (0.6–2.8) and 1.0 (reference) (p trend < 0.001). The quintiles of serum 25(OH)D in nmol/L, were < 43 (mean 28), 43–61 (mean 52), 62–77 (mean 69), 78–99 (mean 87), and ≥ 100 (mean 125). 3.5‐fold greater risk was associated with serum 25(OH)D < 43 nmol/L, compared to ≥ 70 nmol/L. Maintaining > 70 nmol/L is consistent with 4,000 IU/d tolerable intake of vitamin D at ages ≥ 9 years, according to a 2011 National Academy of Sciences monograph. A proposed model is outlined that could explain the inverse association of 25(OH)D with Type 1 diabetes, the DIAB epithelial barrier model. Supported by NHRC Work Unit 60126. Thanks to Dr. Angelee Eick, AFHSC.
Vitamin D dose‐response study in breast fed infants from Montréal, Canada: 400 IU/day is sufficient to meet the plasma 25‐hydroxy vitamin D threshold of 50 nmol/L but not 75 nmol/L by 12 months of age
Authors: Gallo Sina , Rodd Celia , Vanstone Catherine , Agellon Sherry , Comeau Kathryn , Jones Glenville , L'Abbé Mary , Khamessan Ali , Sharma Atul , Weiler Hope
Published: June 2021

The Adequate Intake of 400 IU/d of vitamin D was established by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) to support 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations >50 nmol/L whereas, the Canadian Paediatric Society suggests 75–225 nmol/L. We aimed to identify a dosage of vitamin D which would support 25(OH)D ≥75 nmol/L in 97.5% of participants across infancy. Healthy, term infants (n=132) were randomized to oral supplements of 400, 800, 1200 or 1600 IU vitamin D3 daily from 1 to 12 mo of age and plasma 25(OH)D was measured (LC‐MS/MS; Warnex Inc.) (NCT00381914). The 1600 IU/d group was discontinued due to 25(OH)D concentrations >225 nmol/L. At each time point, logistic regression was used to test the effect of dose vs. 400 IU/d by ITT. Compared to the 400 IU group, dose significantly predicted (*) achieving ≥75 nmol/L, with odds ratios (CI) of 15(3–73) at 2 mo, 13(2–76) at 3 mo, 5(1–17) at 12 mo for 1200 IU/d and 16(2–128) for 1600 IU/d. By 3 mo, the 400 IU/dosage meet the IOM recommendation. If 75 nmol/L is the threshold, then dosages >400 IU/d may be necessary. Functional outcomes may be improved with 25(OH)D levels ≥75 nmol/L.

Percent of infants ≥ 50 and 75 nmol/L by age and group compared to 400 IU/d at same time

Age (mo)
400 IU/d (n=39)
800 IU/d (n=39)
1200 IU/d (n=38)
1600 IU/d (n=16)

≥50
≥75
≥50
≥75
≥50
≥75
≥50
≥75

1
66
17
61
21
76
34
82
27

2
92
42
90
57
93
87*
92
77

3
97
55
97
81
96
93*
100
100

6
100
71
93
73
100
87
100
100

9
97
66
96
68
100
69
100
86

12
97
38
96
63
100
68*
100
83*

p<0.05.

Grant Funding Source : Canadian Institutes of Health Research; Nutricia Research Foundation