bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
School Lunch Consumption is Associated with Higher Intakes of Total Fat, Added Sugars, and Sodium in US Children
Authors: O'Brien Brady , Vernarelli Jacqueline A
Published: November 2023

More than 20 million children are served school lunch each day in the United States. It is important to examine how school lunch program participation influences diet quality and markers for chronic disease in children. The objective of this study was to describe diet quality, including dietary energy density and food group intake, of children who participate in the national school lunch program, and evaluate diet quality in children who consume school lunch vs. those who do not in a nationally representative sample of US children. The present study used a nationally representative sample of 6,735 US school‐aged children who participated in the 2009–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Data regarding school lunch participation was provided collected in the NHANES. Children were categorized into school lunch consumers vs. non‐consumers, and also categorized by number of days school lunch is consumed each week. Diet quality was determined using HEI component scores as well as total intake of USDA‐identified food groups (fruits, vegetables, solid fats, etc.). Dietary ED (kcal/gram) was calculated using multiple methods. All data were analyzed using appropriate survey weights and procedures in SAS 9.3. Our results indicate that daily school lunch participation is associated with higher total fat intake and higher added sugar intake after controlling for sex, race, physical activity, socioeconomic status. Children who eat school lunch 5 days/week consume an average of 74.0g of fat, compared to non‐consumers, consuming 68.6 ± 1.1g, p=0.02. This association was seen even in students who infrequently consume school lunch, with children consuming school lunch reporting an average of 65.8 ± 2.1g, p=0.05. Similarly, children who consume school lunch eat school lunch have significantly higher sugar intake than those children who do not (127.5±1.5g vs. 111.8±3.2g respectively; p=0.0003). Additionally, children defined as school lunch eaters displayed significantly higher sodium intake than children who do not each school lunch (3216.2±43.8g vs. 2921.6±96.1g; p=0.0073). Despite these nutrient intake differences, no difference in energy density was observed between consumers and non‐consumers. Since the National School Lunch Program services a substantial proportion of children in the US, the composition of school lunches served in the U.S. should be assessed in terms of additional total fat, sodium, and sugar contribution to daily intake of school‐aged children.
Ready‐To‐Eat Cereal Consumption is Associated with Improved Nutrient Intakes and Nutrient Adequacy in Lower Income Children and Teens: Results from NHANES 2007–2012
Authors: Gugger Carolyn K , Bidwai Samruddhi , Joshi Nandan , Holschuh Nort M.
Published: November 2023

This study examined food and nutrient intakes and nutrient adequacy in children (4–12 yr, n=2818) and teens (13–18 yr, n=1343) living in households qualifying for government nutrition assistance programs (Poverty Income Ratio <185%) by ready‐to‐eat cereal consumption pattern (RTEC). Among participants, 45.8% of children and 29.6% of teens were classified as RTEC eaters based on day‐1 dietary intakes from NHANES 2007–2012. USDA Food Patterns Equivalents Database was used to assess consumption of dairy and whole grain (WG). Across all ages, RTEC eaters had significantly (p<0.05) higher intakes of key micronutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and iron (p<0.0001), but similar intakes of total calories compared to non‐RTEC eaters. Total sugar intake was similar between groups for children only. RTEC contributed a substantial percentage of daily micronutrients in children and teens: vitamin D (18, 21%), folate (50, 53%), iron (45, 50%) and vitamin A (31, 38%). RTEC was the largest contributor to WG intake in children (54%) and teens (59%), and RTEC consumption was associated with significantly higher intakes of WG and dairy compared to non‐RTEC eaters (p<0.05). In both age groups, a higher percentage of non‐RTEC eaters did not meet daily Estimated Average Requirements for zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and vitamin D compared to RTEC‐eaters. These findings support the role of RTEC as a nutrient dense food and a significant source of key nutrients and WG in the diets of American children from lower income households.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition, General Mills, Inc.
Effects of a 12‐month Low‐Carbohydrate Diet vs. a Low‐Fat Diet on Bone Mineral Density: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hu Tian , Yao Lu , Bazzano Lydia
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite health benefits, diet‐induced weight loss has been thought to decrease bone mineral density (BMD) and increase the risk of osteoporotic fractures. However, results from clinical trials on this topic have been variable; there is little to no evidence regarding the effect of low carbohydrate diets on BMD.

Methods

We examined the effects of a low‐carbohydrate diet (<40 g/day; n = 9) versus a standard low‐fat diet (<30% kcal/day from total fat, <7% saturated fat; n = 12) on BMD among 21 obese women who took part in a 12‐month clinical trial and were free of diabetes, cardiovascular disease or chronic renal disease at baseline. Intake of total energy or protein was not restricted. BMD was measured using dual X‐ray absorptiometry at baseline and after 12 months of intervention.

Results

Median (Interquartile range) age at baseline was 52.7 (10.7) years in the low‐carbohydrate group and was 51.8 (11.7) years in the low‐fat group. Nineteen participants (90%; 8 white and 11 black) completed the intervention. On average, participants in the low‐carbohydrate group lost 2.1 (4.0) kg while those in the low‐fat group lost 0.2 (6.7) kg at 12 months. Baseline level of physical activity and change in physical activity at 12 months did not differ between the two groups. At 12 months, participants on the low‐carbohydrate diet preserved more bone mass in the femoral neck than those on the low‐fat diet (Table). Preservation of total femoral and lumbar L1–4 BMD was not statistically different between groups. Similar patterns were seen for T scores and Z scores. Results were consistent after excluding two participants with a family history of osteoporosis.

Conclusion

Despite greater weight loss, a low‐carbohydrate diet resulted in better preservation of BMD than a standard low‐fat diet among obese women.

Support or Funding Information

Sources of funding: the National Center for Research Resources of the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NCRR P20‐RR017659)

12‐month charges in bone mineral density (BMD) markers by diet group, median (interquartile range)

BMD markers
Low‐carbN=8
Low‐fatN=11
P from Wilcoxon two‐sample test

Lumbar 1–4 BMD
0.025 (0.058)
0.004 (0.086)
0.24

Femur BMD
0.022 (0.029)
0.011 (0.011)
0.09

Femur neck BMD
0.025 (0.014)
0.004 (0.023)
0.02

Lumbar 1–4 T score
0.25 (0.45)
0.00 (0.70)
0.22

Femur T score
0.20 (0.20)
0.10 (0.10)
0.15

Femur neck T score
0.20 (0.13)
0.00 (0.20)
0.02

Lumbar 1–4 Z score
0.30 (0.50)
−0.05 (0.70)
0.20

Femur Z score
0.10 (0.15)
0.05 (0.20)
0.16

Femur neck Z score
0.15 (0.30)
−0.03 (0.25)
0.07
Nutraceutical Strategy for Muscle Maintenance and Recovery
Authors: TORRENT ANNA , MONTELL EULALIA , VERGÉS JOSEP , GÓMEZ‐CABRERA CARMEN , VIÑA JOSE
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Skeletal muscle atrophy commonly occurs during prolonged periods of inactivity due to limb immobilization or prolonged bed rest. During this period of disuse the muscle enters a catabolic state losing mass and volume, resulting in a decrease in strength and function. There is a profound need to develop novel nutritional strategies to minimize muscle loss during inactivity or hospitalization and accelerate rehabilitation of muscle mass and strength. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of a new formulation (BIS100) containing n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and an extract from porcine cartilage rich in bioactive substances (BIX003, patent pending).

METHODS

Muscular atrophy was induced by hindlimb unloading following the protocol of Morey‐Holton (tail suspension). 24 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into unloaded and freely ambulating with regular food and water for 14 days. The rats were given BIS100 orally (120 mg/kg/day body wt of BIX003 + 200 μL/day of n‐3 PUFA) or water (vehicle) throughout the experimental period. Thereafter, they were sacrificed by an overdose of sodium pentobarbital. Soleus and gastrocnemius muscles were removed and weighed separately. Creatin kinase (CK), Aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were determined as markers of muscular damage. Cytokines IL‐1 and IL‐6 were analyzed in serum and also the expression of antioxidant enzymes in soleus by Western blot (Glutathione peroxidase 1, Catalase and Superoxide dismutase).

RESULTS

The suspension induced a reduction in soleus and gastrocnemius muscles weights and a reduction of the cross‐sectional area of soleus. This was accompanied by an increase of the oxidative stress, of some inflammatory cytokines and also of biomarkers of muscular damage such as LDH, CK and AAT. Supplementation with the formulation BIS100 induced a significant reduction in the LDH and CK activities in serum and in the cytokines IL‐1β and IL‐6. In addition the treatment showed a reduction of the antioxidant enzyme GPx‐1 (protein levels), probably due to the reduction of the oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate that this formulation based on the porcine cartilage extract (BIX003) and n‐3 PUFA may be beneficial to maintain the muscle integrity during inactivity periods (limb immobilization/bed rest). In addition, it reduces the levels of muscular damage and oxidative stress and this suggest that this supplementation might be useful for the prevention of delayed onset muscle soreness associated to exercise. Further studies in specific animal models of muscular damage induced by exercise should be performed to confirm these results.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by BIOIBERICA S.A., Barcelona, Spain.
The relationship between self‐reported polyphenol and, caffeine consumption and mood
Authors: Boolani Ali , TeRiele JoAnne , Towler Chris , Baghurst Timothy
Published: November 2023

The acute effects of caffeine and polyphenols on mood havebeen studied extensively, but the impact of chronic consumption of caffeine andpolyphenols on mood needs further exploration. Polyphenols act via several mechanisms in the brain, which may impact cognitive and mental health. Long‐term consumption of polyphenols may enhance neuroplasticity and present an exciting possibility for using diet as a viable method of battling cognitive and psychiatric disorders. Vast literature has examined behavioral effects of single doses of caffeine however, this is not representative of caffeine consumption patterns. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between self‐reported chronic polyphenol and, caffeine consumption and mood. A convenience sample (n=561, males= 329, females=232, age=21.21±4.869yrs, height=173.13 ±10.98cm, weight=76.44 ±18.07kg) from a small town in upstate NY was surveyed. A 30‐day food frequency questionnaire was used to determine polyphenol consumption, a 30‐day caffeine consumption questionnaire was used to determine caffeine consumption and the Profile of Mood Survey(POMS) was used to determine mood. Polyphenol consumption was divided into fruit, vegetables and polyphenol containing beverages. Caffeine consumption was divided into energy drinks and total caffeine consumption. A Pearson bivariate correlation analysis revealed a small positive relationships between POMS vigor scores and consumption of caffeine (r=.124; p=.004), vegetables (r=.096; p=.041), fruit (r=.154; p=.001), and total polyphenol consumption (r=.158; p=.001,). Significant positive relationships were also found for POMS anger scores and energy beverage consumption (r=.087; p=.043) as well as POMS tension scores and caffeine consumption (r=.092; p=.033). There was a small negative relationship between POMS fatigue scores and vegetable consumption (r=‐.115; p=.013) Findings suggest that chronic polyphenol consumption may increase feelings of vigor. Vegetable consumption may reduce feelings of fatigue and energy beverage consumption may increase feelings of anger. Caffeine yielded mixed results; consumption may increase levels of vigor yet also provoke feelings of anxiety and tension. Smallr values suggest that these relationships are minor. Further, it is unclear whether an individual's mood state drives nutritional choices or vice versa. Future research should investigate the quantity of polyphenols within subjects’ diet as well as exploring the causal nature of these relationships among larger, more diverse populations.
The Association of Dietary Glycine and Glutamate with ADHD
Authors: Holton Kathleen F , Johnstone Jeni , Nigg Joel T
Published: November 2023

The objective of this research was to examine the relation of the dietary amino acids: aspartate, glutamate, and glycine, to Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). These amino acids function as key neurotransmitters in the nervous system, and could potentially modulate symptoms in ADHD. Parents of a small sample of children from the Oregon ADHD cohort (23 with ADHD and 22 without) were given three 24‐hr recalls to estimate nutrient intake. The two groups did not differ by age and sex, but the group without ADHD had a higher IQ (p=0.01). Univariate analyses of each amino acid (in grams) did not differ between groups; however, percent intake of aspartate was significantly higher, percent glutamate was significantly lower, and percent glycine was marginally higher in those with ADHD as compared to controls. Multivariable logistic regression, modeling ADHD as the outcome, demonstrated significant effects of glutamate and glycine when modeled together and adjusted for age, sex and IQ. Greater intake of glycine was associated with an increased likelihood of ADHD, (OR (95% CI) = 8.02 (1.30–49.53), p=0.03) and greater intake dietary glutamate was associated with a reduced likelihood of ADHD (OR (95% CI) = 0.66 (0.44–1.01), p=0.05). These results are limited by the small sample size; however, they suggest that future research is needed to further evaluate the association of dietary glycine and glutamate with ADHD.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by grant R37MH59104.
Low Intake of Choline During Pregnancy Leads to Aberrant Retinal Architecture and Poor Visual Function in the Offspring
Authors: Surzenko Natalia , Trujillo‐González Isis , Zeisel Steven H
Published: November 2023

Choline, an essential nutrient, regulates brain development through its role in maintaining the pool of neural progenitor cells. The role of choline in the development of the retina, however, is unknown. In this study, we modulated choline intake in mice during pregnancy and assessed the effects of low choline (LC) diet on the development and function of the retina in the offspring. We find that adequate dietary supply of choline between days 11 and 17 of mouse gestation is required to support the proliferation and differentiation of retinal progenitor cells. Furthermore, retinal structural integrity is disrupted in the embryos of dams receiving LC diet as early as embryonic day 17. As a result of aberrant retinal development, retinal function is abnormal in LC animals, as measured by electroretinography and assessment of visuomotor behavior. Together, our data demonstrate an essential role for choline in retinal health.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by grants from Nestlé S.A. and from the NIH (DK056350)
Effect of Different Cooking Methods on Vitamin Contents and True Retention in Selected Vegetables
Authors: LEE JUNSOO , YANG JINWOO , CHOI YOUNGMIN , LEE KYEONGMIN
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the effect of different cooking methods including blanching, boiling, microwaving and steaming on the vitamin contents such as ascorbic acid, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phylloquinone and β‐carotene. True retention was assessed using paired samples and a formula that compensates for loss or gain of moisture and soluble solids. The retention of ascorbic acid ranged from 0.0% to 91.1% for all cooked samples. In general, higher retention values of ascorbic acid were observed in microwaved vegetables whereas the lowest retentions were in boiled vegetables. Retention values of higher than 100% were observed in tocopherols, tocotrienols and β‐carotene in some cooked vegetables. Microwave cooking caused the most loss of vitamin K in crown daisy and mellow. On the other hand, microwave cooking caused the least loss of vitamin K in spinach and chard, tested in our study. Cooking may cause changes of vitamin contents, and it may depend on the vegetables and the heating process. Further research is needed to optimize cooking procedure to enhance retention of vitamins.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by the Rural Development Administration (project number PJ01083805).
Federal Policy Development Process for the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Authors: Casavale Kellie O. , Stoody Eve Essery , Rihane Colette , Olson Richard
Published: November 2023

Objective

The Dietary Guidelines are required under the 1990 National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act, which states that every five years, the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and of Agriculture must jointly publish a report containing nutritional and dietary information and guidelines for the general public.

Methods

The statute (Public Law 101‐445,7 U.S.C. 5341 et seq.) requires that the Dietary Guidelines be based on the preponderance of current scientific and medical knowledge. The 2015–2020 edition of the Dietary Guidelines builds from the 2010 edition with revisions based on the Scientific Report of the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee and consideration of federal agency and public comments.

Results

The 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines translates science into succinct, food‐based guidance that can be relied upon to help Americans choose foods that provide a healthy and enjoyable diet. Its recommendations are ultimately intended to help individuals improve and maintain overall health and reduce the risk of chronic disease; its focus is disease prevention. The Dietary Guidelines is a critical tool for professionals to help Americans make healthy choices in their daily lives to help prevent chronic disease and enjoy a healthy diet.

Conclusion

The Dietary Guidelines is designed to help all individuals ages 2 and older and their families consume a healthy, nutritionally adequate diet. The information in the Dietary Guidelines is used in developing federal food, nutrition, and health policies and programs. It serves as the evidence‐based foundation for nutrition education materials that are developed by the Federal Government for the public and is the basis for the nutrition components of HHS and USDA food programs. It is developed for use by policymakers and nutrition and health professionals. Additional audiences who may use Dietary Guidelines information to develop programs, policies, and communication for the general public include businesses, schools, community groups, media, the food industry, and State and local governments.

Support or Funding Information

None
Marketing Strategies of the Industry of Sugar‐Sweetened Beverages; Monitoring of In‐Store Special Offers
Authors: Velasco Anabel , Hernandez Isabel Paulina , Aguilar Paulina
Published: November 2023

The study objective was to monitor for one year the special offers of sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSB) at 19 sales points at Mexico City after the implementation of the tax on SSB of $1 MX peso per liter. The SSB industry has implemented a strong and intense marketing strategies that could influence the decision‐making process and dietary habits among consumers.

The sample of the products selected included different categories and sizes of beverages, in total 57 products. Taxed‐products corresponded to 60% of the studied sample and 40% to non‐taxed products. Twice a month all the special offers found were registered and were categorized into 8 different promotions. The study period corresponded from August 2014 to July 2015. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the distribution of special offers and the percentage of each one monthly.

The most frequent special offer used by the industry was price reduction, whether when buying a single item or a package, the consumer got a direct discount on the final price. The mean of the savings when buying beverages with price discounts was of $1.51 when buying a single item and of $1.7 when buying more than one. Other important promotion were gifts, 12% of all special offers corresponded to this category. Gifts included basic food products such as beans, tortillas, rice, soup and cooking oil, consumers got these products for free when buying a 2 liter or 3 liter soft drink. The price of the free food products is much greater than the excise tax applied to these beverages. Contests to win electronic devices, trips, cloths and other products were mainly targeted to adolescentes. While products with animated characters and atractive packaging were targeted to children. We also identified that strategies and sales promotions are adaptable to every type of store and target population. Consequently, different tactics are implemented in different types of market.

Approximately 32% of the products monitored during one year had special offer at the supermarkets visited. The amount of special offers changed monthly according to the massive promotions offered. As from March 2015 the promotions raised on 30% compared to February 2015, due to the launching of specific special offers that were present in most of the sales points.

The in‐store marketing strategies of the SSB industry could fall into one if these categories: price reduction buying a single item, price reduction buying more than one product, gift, package of beverages, package with food, contest, indirect money and third‐parties. It is important to consider the marketing tactics of the industry when assessing the tax impact on sales and habits changes.

Support or Funding Information

The present project was supported by the Center for Research of Nutrition and Health of the National Institute of Public Health of Mexico (INSP)
Severely Compromised Anabolic Response to Nutrition in a Pseudomonas aeroginosa (PM) Induced Hyper‐dynamic Sepsis‐Recovery Pig Model
Authors: Ten Have Gabriella A , Engelen Marielle P , Wolfe Robert R , Deutz Nicolaas E
Published: November 2023

Rationale

Feeding patients with sepsis is critical to restore muscle mass. However, it is unknown whether nutrition is able to induce an anabolic response during the early treatment phase of sepsis. We developed a reversible sepsis model in catheterized pigs by infusing live bacteria (PM) IV, followed by antibiotic induced recovery. We assessed the anabolic response to amino acid (AA) nutrition in the early recovery phase of sepsis using stable isotope methodology by measuring whole body protein synthesis (WbPS), protein breakdown (WbPB), net protein synthesis (netPS) and the efficiency of conversion of AA intake to protein (ProtConv).

Method

In 25 pigs (±25 kg), IV PM (3e8 CFU/ml/h) induced acute severe sepsis (n=13) or control IV solution (n=12) for 6 hours was followed by a single dose of gentamycine (5 mg/kg bw) and intra‐gastric constant continuous feeding with a dextrose containing AA mixture (pig muscle AA profile, 31 mg N/kg bw/h, 30% daily intake) for 6 hours. We measured WbPB, WbPS, net PS and ProtConv using primed, constant continuous intravenous infusion of Phenylalanine(ring‐2H5) and Tyrosine(13C9, 15N) stable isotopes and collected arterial blood samples between 9–12h. Enrichments of AA plasma pools were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. Data are expressed as mean (SE) and stats by two‐way ANOVA or Student t‐test using Graphpad Prism6.

Results

In the sepsis group during the AA nutrition intervention, WbPB rate was higher (p<0.0001), netPS rate was lower (p<0.0001), but no changes in WbPS (p=0.989). The ProtConv fraction was lower in the sepsis than in the control group (p<0.0001). On average ProtConv was reduced with 43%: 65.1(3.6) vs 36.2(4.3)%, (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

The whole body anabolic response to AA nutrition is severely compromised in the early treatment phase of acute severe sepsis. Our innovative pig sepsis‐recovery model enables examination of the anabolic capacity of modified diets to restore sepsis induced muscle loss.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by NIH R01GM084447 and S10RR027047
Metabolomics‐Based Analysis of Banana and Pear Ingestion on Exercise Performance and Recovery
Authors: Nieman David , Gillitt Nicholas , Sha Wei , Meaney Mary Pat , John Casey , Pappan Kirk , Kinchen Jason
Published: November 2023

Bananas and pears vary in sugar and phenolic profiles; we used a metabolomics‐based approach to assess the influence of these biochemicals on exercise performance and recovery. Male athletes (N=20, age 39.2±1.9 years, 338±8.2 wattsmax) cycled for 75 km while consuming water (WATER), bananas (BAN), or pears (PEAR) (0.6 g carbohydrate/kg each hour) in randomized order. UPLC‐MS/MS and the library of purified standards maintained by Metabolon (Durham, NC) were used to analyze metabolite shifts in pre‐and post‐exercise (0‐h, 1.5‐h, 21‐h) blood samples. Performance times were 5.0% and 3.3% faster during BAN and PEAR versus WATER (P=0.018 and P=0.091, respectively), with reductions in cortisol, IL‐10, and total leukocytes, and increases in blood glucose, insulin, and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). Participants reported more fullness and bloating during BAN and PEAR compared to WATER trials, but also enhanced energy and ability to focus, and for the BAN trial improved overall well‐being. Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis (PLS‐DA) showed a distinct separation between trials immediately‐(R2Y=0.877, Q2Y=0.457) and 1.5‐h‐post‐exercise (R2Y=0.773, Q2Y=0.441). A total of 107 metabolites (primarily lipid‐related) increased more than 2‐fold during WATER, with a 48% and 52% reduction in magnitude during BAN and PEAR recovery (P<0.001). Increases in metabolites unique to BAN and PEAR included fructose and fruit constituents, and sulfated phenolics that were related to elevated FRAP. In summary, BAN compared to WATER ingestion before and during 75‐km cycling provided carbohydrates, catecholamines, and phenolics compatible with enhanced performance (5%), diminished inflammation, elevated antioxidant capacity, and decreased fatty acid mobilization and oxidation. Despite a much lower glucose‐to‐fructose carbohydrate profile, PEAR ingestion was related to comparable outcomes with some attenuation from adverse gastrointestinal symptoms. These data indicate that fruit ingestion, in particular, bananas, is compatible with athletic endeavor and a more favorable recovery.

Support or Funding Information

Support provided by Dole Foods, Inc., Westlake Village, CA
Bitter receptors and glucose transporters interact to control carbohydrate and immune responses in the gut
Authors: Palatini Kimberly M , Durand Pier‐Jean , Rathinasabapathy Thirumurugan , Esposito Debora , Komarnytsky Slavko
Published: November 2023

Receptors of bitter taste (T2Rs) co‐localize with glucose transporters SGLT‐1, GLUT2 and GLUT5 in the gastrointestinal enterocytes and enteroendocrine cells. Since plant‐based foods are the primary source of both carbohydrates and bioactive bitter substances in our diet, it is possible that gastrointestinal T2Rs evolved to perceive bitter‐tasting phytochemicals in anticipation of the incoming carbohydrate load, resulting in rapid changes in the gastrointestinal glucose absorption and utilization by paracrine signaling. Using a cell culture model of the small intestine, we confirmed that multiple classes of bitter phytochemicals activate bitter receptor signaling and suppress uptake of glucose from the intestinal lumen, mediated in part by cholecystokinin (CCK). Additionally, treatments with bitter extracts from chicory and other edible plants affected the PLC/PKC signaling pathway downstream of T2Rs, thus controlling biomarkers of immune and bioenergetic responses in the intestine. As alterations in normal glucose transport are strongly associated with multiple metabolic pathologies including obesity, diabetes, and cancer, these finding support the use of bioactive bitter phytochemicals to control postprandial glycaemia and reduce caloric intake in high‐risk populations in clinical and community settings.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported in part by NCSU Research and Innovation grant 2012‐2246 (SK); NCSU Office of International Affairs grant 2013‐1705 (SK); Plants for Human Health Institute grant 429350‐42567 (SK); and Cell Culture and Phenotyping Core of the Plants for Human Health Institute, NC State University.
Fiber utilizing capacity varies with Prevotella versus Bacteroides enterotypes
Authors: Chen Tingting , Long Wenmin , Zhang Chenhong , Liu Shuang , Zhao Liping , Hamaker Bruce
Published: November 2023

The human gut microbiota is highly individualized because of the forces of diverse hosts’ genetic background, living environment and dietary habit. Population data on human gut microbiota show distinctive enterotypes (Prevotella, Bacteroides or Ruminococcus dominant) that are associated with long‐term diet patterns. Yet, enterotypes have not been linked with health status. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), generated by dietary fiber fermentation, are biologically active and are an important target related to colon and whole body health. Here, we were interested in understanding whether fibers produce different SCFA amounts and ratios in different enterotypes. A study was designed to explore how the different fiber structures influence gut microbiota composition and SCFA production in two enterotypes using an in vitro batch human fecal fermentation model.

The dominance of Prevotella versus Bacteroides in the initial enterotypes had a large impact on SCFA products from fermentation of fibers of different types and with different chemical complexity. A single Prevotella OTU was exclusively promoted in the microbiome of the Prevotella enterotype when fed fructooligosaccharides (FOS) or sorghum or corn arabinoxylans (SAX, CAX), while in the Bacteroides enterotype different OTUs were enriched by each fiber (Lactobacillus by FOS, Bacteroides with different OTUs by SAX and CAX). SCFA production by the two enterotypes on the three fibers was substantially different. Propionate was initially 2–3 fold higher in the stool of the Prevotella compared to the Bacteroides enterotype, and had up to 4 fold higher increase with the fiber treatments. Furthermore, The total amount of SCFA generated by SAX and CAX matched at 24 h in each microbiota, but the fermentation rate varied with the simpler SAX structure fermenting fast in both enterotypes and the more complex CAX fermenting as fast as SAX in the Prevotella enterotype but much slower in the Bacteroides enterotype. Overall, the dominant fiber‐using bacteria and the type of dietary fiber together determined the SCFA profile generated by fermentation. This study shows the possibility to design fibers for future personalized medicine.
Substrate Structure‐dependent Growth of Bacteroides Xylanisolvens XB1A on Corn Arabinoxylan Fragments in Pure and Mixed Culture Environments
Authors: Nie Xin , Martens Eric , Xiao Yao , Reuhs Brad , Hamaker Bruce
Published: November 2023

Dietary fiber has been shown to influence the gut microbiota community which is associated with chronic metabolic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity and diabetes. It remains unclear, though, whether and how bacteria can be modulated via specific fiber substrates in a controlled manner. Here, we have addressed this question by using Bacteroides isolates to study subtle variations in structure of a common cereal bran fiber, corn arabinoxylan. Bacteroides xylanisolvens XB1A, Bacteroides ovatus 3‐1‐23 and Bacteroides cellulosilyticus DSM 14838, were used to investigate six partially debranched hydrolyzates of corn arabinoxylan by an enzymatic method to understand the degree of specificity of dietary fiber molecular fine structure on the utilization of target strains. The growth curves of strains were monitored using Optical Density (OD) (for pure culture) and qPCR method (for mixed‐culture). Using a pure culture of Bacteroides xylanisolvens XB1A, a large lag phase shift was linked to change in a specific branch pattern involving the 2‐O position of arabinosyl moieties on the xylan backbone. Gene transcription of a putative outer membrane xylooligosaccharide transporter BXY_46550, suggesting bacterial utilization of arabinoxylan substrates, changed in a similar way with lag phase. In a multi‐strain environment, B. xylanisolvens XB1A showed the capacity to support the growth of B. ovatus 3‐1‐23, which poorly digested the complex fragments alone, apparently due to a cross‐feeding interaction which was fiber structure‐dependent. The support of B. ovatus 3‐1‐23 by B. xylanisolvens XB1A was notably changed by the arabinoxylan substrates. In addition, B. xylanisolvens XB1A was apparently suppressed by other strains when it was fed on a structure that induced the longer lag phase, indicating that the length of the lag phase (i.e., response time to a new nutrient) is important to a strain's ability to compete for specific fiber substrates. This study shows a clear connection between subtle fiber structural features and utilization of target colonic bacteria. A high dependence of strains on specific fiber structural features for growth was observed, and implies the potential to deliberately change target strains within the competitive environment of the human colonic microbiota using proper dietary fibers.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by Whistler Center for Carbohydrate Research, Purdue University.
Functional Characterization of Novel Fads3 Isoform
Authors: Zhang Ji Yao , Qin Xia , Park Hui Gyu , Kim Ellen , Liu Guowen , Kothapalli Kumar S.D. , Brenna J. Thomas
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The fatty acid desaturase (FADS) gene family consists of three genes, Fads1, Fads2, and Fads3. Fads1 and Fads2 encode desaturases catalyzing key steps in the biosynthesis of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). Fads3 is the third member, with at least eight evolutionarily conserved alternative transcripts (AT), but without a clearly established function. Here we present identification of a novel Fads3 transcript in mice (Fads3AT9). Our main objective was to characterize Fads3AT9 expression and seek correlations with fatty acid profiles in mouse tissues.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were fed facility rodent chow ad libitum. Eleven tissues were collected from one year old mice. Total RNA was isolated from mouse tissues, reverse‐transcribed into cDNA and used as template for PCR reactions. Fatty acid analysis was performed by GC‐MS and GC‐FID, respectively.

Results

Sequencing analysis revealed complete absence of exon 2 resulting in an open reading frame of 1239 bp, encoding a putative protein of 412 aa with loss of 37 aa compared to Fads3 classical transcript (CS). Putative protein encoded by Fads3AT9 (AT9) retains all the conserved regions characteristic of front end desaturase (cytochrome b5 domain and three histidine repeats). AT9 along with CS is ubiquitously expressed in all 11 tissues tested. AT9 expression is higher in thymus, spleen, pancreas and brown adipose tissue compared to CS. AT9 expression in pancreas, particularly, was more than two fold higher than CS. Total n‐6 PUFA levels were found to be highest in the pancreas. More interestingly, levels of twenty carbon eicosanoid precursor arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6), the immediate desaturation product of the FADS1 (Δ5‐desaturase), was highest in the pancreas among all the tested tissues.

Conclusion

Changes in expression patterns and fatty acid profiles suggest that Fads3AT9 may play a role in the regulation and/or biosynthesis of LCPUFA from precursors.

Support or Funding Information

NIH R01 AT007003
Metabolic profiling and quantification of ceramide by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Ying , McLaren David , Liu Jinqi , Yin Wu , Mayoral Rafael , Petrov Aleksandr , Bojic Lazar , Berejnaia Olga , Previs Stephen , Kelley David
Published: November 2023

Objective

Ceramides are putative mediators of insulin resistance and lipotoxicity; an up‐regulation of ceramide biosynthesis has been well described in rodent models of metabolic disease. A precise, robust and specific LC/MS method was developed to quantify ceramide profiles and support determinations of ceramide flux. The LC/MS method was used to determine the effects of diet‐induced obesity (DIO) in C57B1/6J mice ±treatment with myriocin (1mg/kg, over 7 days), an inhibitor of ceramide synthesis.

Method

Plasma and tissue samples were collected from mice (lean, high‐fat fed ± myriocin) at various times following administration of stable isotope tracers. The ceramides were extracted with organic solvents and analyzed using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry; concentrations were determined by normalization to an internal standard (d31‐c16:0 ceramide).

Results

In contrast to lean mice, DIO‐mice demonstrated an increased concentration and synthesis of circulating ceramides. Myriocin treatment inhibited ceramide synthesis and led to a normalization of circulating levels.

Conclusion

LC/MS analyses can enable characterization of circulating concentrations of ceramide subspecies and enable stable isotope determinations of in vivo kinetics.

Support or Funding Information

All authors are employed by Merck.
Quantifying fatty acid synthesis using heavy water: Enabling back‐to‐back studies
Authors: Previs Stephen , Herath Kithsiri , Nawrocki Andrea , Singh Sheo , Kang Ling , Erion Mark , Kelley David
Published: November 2023

Studies aimed at modulating the contribution of de novo lipogenesis (DNL) to lipid homeostasis are of interest. For example, there appears to be an increased contribution of DNL in cases of dyslipidemia and adipose accretion suggesting that the inhibition of fatty acid synthesis may affect clinical phenotypes. Unfortunately, it is unclear whether inhibition of one specific step in the lipogenic pathway is more important than another. Heavy water (D2O) is generally considered to be a reliable isotopic tracer for quantifying DNL. In contrast to other tracers, D2O yields a homogeneous and quantifiable precursor labeling. However, a drawback of using D2O centers on the relatively long half‐life of water implying that one must wait a substantial time before performing repeat studies in the same subjects; this can create a bottleneck in the development and evaluation of novel therapeutics for inhibiting DNL especially in cases where one aims to use subjects as their own controls. We previously demonstrated the ability to perform back‐to‐back studies of glucose and cholesterol flux by administering multiple doses of D2O and therein circumvent an extensive washout time; presumably these “tricks” can help minimize resources and decrease the turnaround time when testing hypotheses. Herein we now demonstrate the ability to perform back‐to‐back studies of DNL using D2O. However, we have identified special circumstances that limit some aspects of the data analysis, i.e. it is possible to obtain what appear to be negative values for DNL. Using a rodent model we have identified the physiological mechanism that explains the data. We show that one can use D2O to test inhibitors of DNL by performing back‐to‐back studies in higher species (i.e. treat non‐human primates with platensimycin, an inhibitor of fatty acid synthase).

Support or Funding Information

All authors were employed by Merck while this work was being done.
Exogenous Oxidation of Lipids Reduces The Deleterious Effects of A High Fat Diet Composed of These Lipids in A Swine Model of Familial Hypercholesterolemia and Spontaneous Atherosclerosis
Authors: Arowolo Folagbayi , Meudt Jennifer J. , Cabelka Colin , Schomberg Dominic T. , Chesmore Nathan J. , López Ana Cecilia Escobar , Trace Sam T. , Reichert Jamie L. , Crenshaw Thomas D. , Richards Mark P. , Shanmuganayagam Dhanansayan
Published: November 2023

High‐fat diets elevate the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially in individuals susceptible to dyslipidemia. Dietary fats consumed in westernized countries contain increasingly higher proportions of lipid oxidation byproducts, such as lipid hydroperoxides (LPOs), because of changes in agricultural, food processing, and cooking practices over the years. Although the formation of LPOs within the body is recognized as a central driver of the atherosclerotic process, it is unclear what impact exogenous (dietary) LPOs have in this context. We postulated that LPOs in the diet would not pose the same risk because of existing mechanisms for mitigating their absorption at the gastrointestinal level. Thus, we examined whether the conversion of a portion of lipids into LPOs by deep frying would reduce the atherogenicity of a high‐fat diet composed of such lipids in a novel swine model of spontaneous atherosclerosis.

We placed four‐month old swine with familial hypercholesterolemia on the following isocaloric dietary regimens for four months: (1) [Control, N=6] low‐fat swine diet (~9% calories from fat); (2) [HF–LPOs, N=5] high‐fat diet (~44% calories from fat) containing negligible amounts of LPOs; (3) [HF+LPOs, N=5] high‐fat diet (~44% calories from fat) containing LPOs generated by heating of oil under an established protocol. The diets delivered equal amounts of micronutrients. Body weight (BW) measurements and serum samples were obtained at baseline and monthly during the study. At the end of the study period, the animals were euthanized and tissue harvested for gross and histological analysis of atherogenesis. Compared to the Control group, the HF–LPOs group showed a 58.5±20.4% increase in total serum cholesterol (TSC), while the HF+LPOs group only showed a 38.5±9.1% increase in TSC. Compared to HF–LPOs group, HF+LPOs showed a 20±11% lower BW gain over the course of the study; there was no notable difference in food intake. Compared to the Control group, the HF–LPOs group showed a 45.6±44.2% higher degree of atherogenesis in the aorta, while the HF+LPOs group only showed a 21.5±38.5% higher atherogenesis. The findings, taken together, suggest that oxidation of a portion of fats in the diet reduces the deleterious effects of the fat by potentially reducing the amount that is absorbed.

Support or Funding Information

The research was supported by the Biomedical & Genomic Research Group Discretionary Fund, University of Wisconsin‐Madison.
Sex differences of body fat distribution in mexican adolescents 10–14 years old with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus risk factors
Authors: Soto‐Piña Alexandra , Esquivel‐Roque Aurora , Flores‐Reséndiz Constantino , Fernández‐Gaxiola Ana Cecilia , Tlatempa‐Sotelo Patricia
Published: November 2023

Overweight and obesity are risk factors for developing type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). While they are associated with insulin resistance, it is unclear how sex and body fat percentage contribute to the appearance of T2DM risk factors in adolescents. There are few methods to analyze body composition at early life stages, among them the Slaughter equation has proved to be suitable and accurate to obtain the body fat percentage in adolescents. The aim of this study was to determine body fat percentage in adolescents between 10 to 14 years old and to identify adolescents at risk of developing T2DM. The sample consisted of 66 adolescents aged 10 to 14 years who met one or more of the following criteria: fasting glucose ≥100 mg/dL, presence of acanthosis nigricans, family history of T2DM, BMI ≥percentile 95th and hypertension (≥percentile 90). Triceps, subscapular and calf skin folds were measured and the percentage of body fat was obtained. The 11.0% of the population presented low weight, 37.0% normal weight, 25.4% overweight and 28.0% obesity. Moreover, 31.0% of girls had overweight and 25.0% obesity, while the 41.20% of the boys had normal weight and 32.4% obesity. Also, 32.0% of boys and 50.0% of girls had a high body fat percentage. Girls had higher rate of android like hip waist (78.1%). The results indicate that female adolescents have higher body fat percentage mostly in the abdominal region unlike male adolescents and may be more prone to develop T2DM risk factors.

Support or Funding Information

Bridge Grant UAEMEX‐UNTHSC
Differences in body composition according to gender in schoolchildren in Arandas, Mexico
Authors: Romero‐Velarde Enrique , Caro‐Sabido Erika Alejandra , Vasquez‐Garibay Edgar Manuel , Larrosa‐Haro Alfredo
Published: November 2023

Objective

Identify differences in body composition according to gender in schoolchildren population of Arandas, and associated factors.

Methods

A crossover design in 268 children from 57 to 155 months old. Random multistage sampling was performed in schools in town. Sociodemographic data were collected; anthropometric measurements of the study subjects (weight, height, arm circumference, waist circumference and skin folds) and their mothers (weight, height, waist circumference) were performed. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Energy and macronutrients consumption was evaluated with two dietary surveys by 24‐hour recall. Descriptive statistics were performed; body composition characteristics were compared between boys and girls. The project was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee at the University of Guadalajara.

Results

Mean age 96.9 ± 27.2 months, 53.7% male. The values of all parameters of adiposity were higher in boys, but the differences were not statistically significant. The values of waist circumference (p <0.05) energy consumption (p= 0.02) and carbohydrates consumption (p= 0.003) were higher in boys. Mothers of boys had a higher BMI, body fat percentage, waist circumference and prevalence of obesity, than mothers of girls. The maternal BMI was positively correlated with BMI of their children; with a higher correlation with BMI of boys (r=0.42, p <0.001 vs r=0.27, p <0.01).

Conclusions

Adiposity was higher in boys vs girls, although the difference was not significant. Genetic (maternal adiposity), epigenetic, and environmental variables (increased energy and carbohydrates consumption) could explain the higher prevalence of obesity in boys in Mexico.