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Acrylamide (ACR) is created when foods high in carbohydrates are heated up and is more harmful because it produces ROS inside cells. Our research aimed to investigate the potential of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and rosuvastatin (ROSV) in mitigating the adverse effects of testicular toxicity induced by ACR in rats. A total of 49 male rats were distributed among 07 groups. Group 1 served as the control and was administered normal saline orally, while group 2 received oral CoQ10 at a dosage of 10 mg/kg BW; group 3, was administered ROSV (10 mg/kg/BW, orally); group 4, received ACR orally (20 mg/kg/BW); group 5 received ACR and CoQ10; group 6 administered ACR and ROSV; and group 7, the rats received ACR, CoQ10, and ROSV daily for 30 days. Acrylamide lowered serum testosterone, FSH, and LH levels, and marked elevations in testicular MDA levels were observed alongside notable decreases in GSH, CAT and SOD. It caused a significant reduction in the diameter of seminiferous tubules, numbers of spermatocytes, spermatogonia, Sertoli cells, germinal epithelium height, and a dramatic increase in lumen diameter. Also, the testicular histopathology was disturbed by ACR, and the testicular caspase-3 expression was considerably elevated in the ACR-treated group. In rats exposed to ACR intoxication, CoQ10 and ROSV raised levels of antioxidant biomarkers, lowered MDA and mitigated alterations in serum hormonal parameters. In summary, our results suggest that CoQ10 and ROSV exhibit considerable protective effects against ACR-induced testicular toxicity, attributed to their anti-oxidative properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate-based surfactants are amphiphilic compounds containing hydrophilic moieties linked to hydrophobic aglycones. More specifically, carbohydrate esters are biosourced and biocompatible surfactants derived from inexpensive renewable raw materials (sugars and fatty acids). Their unique properties allow them to be used in various areas, such as the cosmetic, food, and medicine industries. These multi-applications have created a worldwide market for biobased surfactants and consequently expectations for their production. Biobased surfactants can be obtained from various processes, such as chemical synthesis or microorganism culture and surfactant purification. In accordance with the need for more sustainable and greener processes, the synthesis of these molecules by enzymatic pathways is an opportunity. This work presents a state-of-the-art lipase action mode, with a focus on the active sites of these proteins, and then on four essential parameters for optimizing the reaction: type of lipase, reaction medium, temperature, and ratio of substrates. Finally, this review discusses the latest trends and recent developments, showing the unlimited potential for optimization of such enzymatic syntheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

H-Beta zeolite is a solid acid catalyst commonly utilized in the catalytic conversion of biomass resources. In this study, H-Beta zeolite was calcined at different temperatures (350, 550, 750, and 1000 °C) to explore the effects of high temperature-induced dealumination on its physicochemical properties and its catalytic ability to convert glucose into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). It was shown that as the calcination temperature increased, the Si-O-Al bond of H-Beta zeolite was broken and its dealumination effect was enhanced. Dealumination led to the collapse of the framework of H-Beta zeolite and a reduction in the number of acid sites, which in turn reduced its catalytic performance and the efficiency of HMF formation from glucose. Furthermore, H-Beta zeolite exhibited an extraordinary catalytic ability for the production of HMF from carbohydrates. Using glucose and cellulose as substrates, superior HMF yields of 91% and 46%, respectively, were achieved under optimal reaction conditions. Further, calcination removes carbon deposits in the recovered H-Beta zeolite, but it affects the cycling stability of the catalyst. Meanwhile, the by-products formed during the synthesis of HMF from glucose catalyzed by H-Beta zeolite catalyst were also clearly detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article emphasizes glycemic goals and hypoglycemia assessment in diabetes care. It covers A1C measurement, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and the importance of individualized glycemic targets. Topics discussed include assessing glycemic status with A1C and CGM, individualizing glycemic goals based on patient characteristics, and strategies for preventing and managing hypoglycemia through medication selection and education.

Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis YLGB-1496 (YLGB-1496) is a probiotic strain isolated from human breast milk. The application of YLGB-1496 is influenced by carbohydrate utilization and genetic stability. This study used genome sequencing and morphology during continuous subculture to determine the carbohydrate utilization characteristics and genetic stability of YLGB-1496. The complete genome sequence of YLGB-1496 consists of 2,758,242 base pairs, 2442 coding sequences, and a GC content of 59.87%. A comparison of carbohydrate transport and metabolism genes of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis (B. infantis) showed that YLGB-1496 was rich in glycosyl hydrolase 13, 20, 25, and 109 gene families. During continuous subculture, the growth characteristics and fermentation activity of the strain were highly stable. The bacterial cell surface and edges of the 1000th-generation strains were progressively smoother and well-defined, with no perforations or breaks in the cell wall. There were 20 SNP loci at the 1000th generation, fulfilling the requirement of belonging to the same strain. The presence of genes associated with cell adhesion and the absence of resistance genes supported the probiotic characteristics of the strain. The data obtained in this study provide insights into broad-spectrum carbohydrate utilization, genomic stability, and probiotic properties of YLGB-1496, which provide theoretical support to promote the use of YLGB-1496. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive development of fruiting trees, including mango (Mangifera indica L.), is limited by nonstructural carbohydrates. Competition for sugars increases with cropping, and consequently, vegetative growth and replenishment of starch reserves may reduce with high yields, resulting in interannual production variability. While the effect of crop load on photosynthesis and the distribution of starch within the mango tree has been studied, the contribution of starch and sugars to different phases of reproductive development requires attention. This review focuses on mango and examines the roles of non-structural carbohydrates in fruiting trees to clarify the repercussions of crop load on reproductive development. Starch buffers the plant’s carbon availability to regulate supply with demand, while sugars provide a direct resource for carbon translocation. Sugar signalling and interactions with phytohormones play a crucial role in flowering, fruit set, growth, ripening and retention, as well as regulating starch, sugar and secondary metabolites in fruit. The balance between the leaf and fruit biomass affects the availability and contributions of starch and sugars to fruiting. Crop load impacts photosynthesis and interactions between sources and sinks. As a result, the onset and rate of reproductive processes are affected, with repercussions for fruit size, composition, and the inter-annual bearing pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rewetting of long-term drained peatlands leads to the development of eutrophic shallow lakes, gradually inhabited by reed communities. These shallow lakes are characterized by significant nutrient and methane emissions. To comprehend the fate of organic compounds from decaying Phragmites australis litter in water and anaerobic soil layers, we conducted a 1.6-year decomposition experiment. The experiment employed bulk and lignin-derived phenol analysis, as well as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. As anticipated, the highest level of decomposition was observed in the surface water body of the shallow lake, while the non-rooted degraded peat exhibited the lowest decay. The bulk mass loss of plant litter decreased with depth from 55 to 27% across the four decomposition environments. Analysis using infrared spectroscopy indicated that the decrease in mass loss was primarily driven by the breakdown of carbohydrates, which constitute a significant portion of plant litter. Interestingly, litter in the rooted degraded peat layer exhibited the highest degree of lignin decay. Furthermore, the study revealed a preferential loss of vanillin phenols and an accumulation of p-hydroxyl phenols. These findings suggest that the increased methane emissions in rewetted fens may be partially attributed to the demethoxylation of vanillin phenols and the subsequent formation of p-hydroxyl phenols. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into anaerobic lignin decomposition of plant litter and sheds light on potential mechanisms underlying elevated methane emissions in rewetted peatlands. Furthermore, the study's findings hold significant implications for both carbon cycling and sequestration within these ecosystems, thereby stimulating further research into the microbial community and its extended effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biscuits containing sugar, rapidly digestible starch (RDS), slowly digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) were characterized for composition and impact on blood glucose concentration with healthy volunteers. Products with added starch contained 1.7-2.2 % moisture, 23.8-24.4 % fat, 64.6-67.4 % carbohydrates where 19.4-19.5 % was sugar and 45.1-48.0 % starch, 1.1-3.6 % dietary fibre, 4.2-4.8 % protein and 0.5 % salt with 41.5-42.3 % digestible starch (SDS). The proportion of available carbohydrates as starch exceeded 55 % as recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for glycemic claims, where the SDS content exceeded the EFSA recommendation (40 %). For the wholewheat-based product with added starch, there was a progressive glucose response with a peak around 50-80 min, then a gradual return to baseline after approximately 4 h. For the white flour-based product with added starch, the peak was spread over 50-115 min with a flatter profile than for the wholewheat variant and still slightly above baseline at 5 h. The peak blood glucose concentrations for both the wholewheat and white flour-based products were approximately 6.4 mmol·l-1 and 6.7 mmol·l-1, respectively. The release of glucose over hours is relevant to general health, sport (endurance) and disease (hypoglycemia). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Preoperative fasting leads to a catabolic state aggravated by surgical stress. This leads to poor patient outcomes. This study aimed to determine the effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate administration on perioperative hyperglycemia and patient comfort. Methods: This prospective, randomized study was conducted on 60 adult American Society of Anesthesiologist I/II patients undergoing hip fracture fixation after obtaining institutional ethical committee clearance. Patients were randomly kept conventionally fasted before surgery (group F, n = 30) or were given oral carbohydrate 2 h before surgery (group C, n = 30). Under all aseptic precautions, a combined spinal epidural block was administered, and surgery was allowed. The primary outcome was blood glucose, and secondary outcomes included incidence of postoperative hyperglycemia, insulin level, blood urea, hunger, thirst, and anxiety. Results: Blood glucose levels were not statistically different between the two groups at baseline (T0; P=0.400), immediately after surgery (T1; P=0.399) and 24h after surgery (T2; P=0.619). The incidence of postoperative hyperglycemia was significantly higher in group F than in group C (P=0.045) at T2. Insulin levels, blood urea levels, and hunger scores were also not statistically different between the groups. The thirst and anxiety scores were lower at T0 and T1 in group C. Conclusion: Preoperative oral carbohydrate administration does not prevent perioperative increases in blood glucose levels. However, it reduces the incidence of perioperative hyperglycemia and decreases perioperative thirst and anxiety, thereby improving the quality of perioperative patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) are an important "buffer" for maintaining plant physiological functions under drought conditions; however, our understanding of the dynamics of NSC at the organ level during sustained drought of varying intensities and re-watering remains poor. In this study, two-year-old Pinus yunnanensis seedlings were subjected to drought and re-watering trials. Plants were subjected to three drought intensities (light drought, moderate drought, and severe drought) as well as control conditions (suitable moisture) for 51 days, including 30 days of drought followed by 21 days of re-watering for drought-treated seedlings, to study the dynamics of NSC in the leaves, stems, coarse roots, and fine roots. Changes in the distribution of NSC concentrations in the organ of P. yunnanensis seedlings under drought stress varied; in the early drought stages, the drought resistance of P. yunnanensis seedlings was enhanced by increasing soluble sugar concentrations; in later stages of drought, the stored starch in organs, stems, and coarse roots was consumed. Drought inhibited the growth of P. yunnanensis seedlings, but the maximum limit of drought tolerance was not reached under the different drought treatments after 30 days. P. yunnanensis seedlings in all treatment groups resumed growth after re-watering, and the growth of seedlings was actually promoted during re-watering in the moderate drought treatment group, indicating that drought induced the compensatory growth of seedlings. The growth of P. yunnanensis seedlings during re-watering was inhibited in the severe drought treatment group, and NSC continued to be regulated in seedlings in this group. Given that P. yunnanensis seedlings maintain growth through the consumption of coarse root starch in the late stages of drought, seedlings with a larger root-to-shoot ratio should be selected for cultivation in actual production. Based on our findings, exposure to moderate drought stress can enhance the drought tolerance of P. yunnanensis seedlings and promote the compensatory growth of seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-fiber, low-cost agricultural byproducts offer a sustainable alternative for mitigating the competition for crops between humans and livestock. Pigs predominantly utilize dietary fibers through the process of microbial fermentation within the gut. This study explored the gut microbiota and the capacity for carbohydrate degradation in 30 individual Lantang pigs, a breed indigenous to China. Through metagenomic analysis, a total of 671 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) were assembled and assigned into 14 bacterial and 1 archaeal phylum, including 97 species from uncultured microbes. The phylum with the highest abundance were identified as Bacillota_A, Bacteroidota, and Bacillota. Remarkably, the investigation revealed nearly 10,000 genes implicated in the degradation of carbohydrates, with a pronounced prevalence within five principal bacterial genera: Prevotella, Cryptobacteroides, Gemmiger, Vescimonas, and Faecousia. Additionally, 87 distinct types of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes were exclusively identified within the gut microbiota of the Lantang pig. These insights not only enhance our understanding of the microbial diversity specific to native Chinese pig breeds but also augment the body of research regarding porcine fiber degradation capabilities. The implications of this study are twofold: it provides strategic directions for optimizing feed efficiency and reducing breeding costs, and it furnishes an expanded gene pool for the microbial synthesis of industrial enzymes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jam is a popular traditional and modern food product for daily consumption. However, the benefits of mixed jams over single-fruit jams have not been thoroughly explored, with analyses limited to superficial indices. In this study, Xinjiang special Morus nigra L. and Prunus domestica L. were used as raw materials to prepare single-fruit and mixed jams, and their differences in antioxidants, organoleptic qualities, pH, texture, and color were analyzed. The dynamics of metabolites before and after thermal processing were assessed using untargeted metabolomics. The results indicate that the main metabolites were flavonoids, terpenoids, amino acids, phenolic acids, and carbohydrates. Flavonoid metabolites changed significantly after thermal processing, with 40 up-regulated and 13 down-regulated. During storage, polyphenols were the prominent differential metabolites, with fifty-four down-regulated and one up-regulated. Volatile aroma components were analyzed using gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS); the aroma components E-2-hexenal, E-2-pentenal, 3-methylbutanal, 1-penten-3-ol, tetrahydro-linalool, 1-penten-3-one, hexyl propionate, isoamyl acetate, α-pinene, and propionic acid in mixed jam were significantly higher than in single-fruit jam. In this study, untargeted metabolomics and GC-IMS were used to provide a more comprehensive and in-depth evaluation system for jam analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To prepare biomass-based wood adhesives with good bonding properties and water resistance is still a challenge and meaningful work in the field of the wood industry. Thus in this present study, under low reaction temperature conditions (50°C), sodium periodate was used as an oxidant to treat carbohydrates such as glucose, sucrose and starch to form biomass-derived aldehydes solutions. Then oxidized glucose- hexamethylenediamine (OGLH), oxidized sucrose- hexamethylenediamine (OSUH) and oxidized strarch-hexamethylenediamine (OSTH) resins were prepared via Schiff base reaction from these solutions with hexamethylenediamine. The resins obtained were applied to the preparation of three-layer laboratory plywood. The whole synthesis was a simple process and low energy consumption; meanwhile, OGLH and OSUH resins show excellent bonding performance, allowing them to be able to consider as a substitute for the current widely used urea-formaldehyde (UF) and its modified resin wood adhesives. Furthermore, this study provides a new process reference for the preparation of carbohydrate-based adhesives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stunting, wasting, and underweight are growth disorders in children under 5 years of age due to malnutrition in Indonesia. The level of macronutrient intake is a risk factor that directly influences stunting and wasting. Food insecurity is associated with poverty, malnutrition, and hunger. This study aimed to analyze food and nutritional insecurity in households with stunting and non-stunting toddlers, using a multivariate model. This study used a comparative cross-sectional design. Using the Lemeshow formula, 142 samples were obtained from a population of 822 children under Ave. Food insecurity was measured using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), diversity using IDDS, and macronutrient intake using 2x24-hour food recall. Stunting, wasting, and underweight were measured based on anthropometry. Bivariate analysis was performed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Food insecurity, energy intake, protein intake, carbohydrate intake, underweight, and maternal nutritional knowledge had a significant relationship with the incidence of stunting in toddlers. These results also showed that the underweight variable was the most dominant cause of stunting because it had the highest OR value of 18.572. The OR value showed that underweight toddlers were 18.572 times more likely to have a stunting nutritional status. Toddlers categorized as underweight face an 18.572 times higher likelihood of experiencing stunting in their nutritional status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work demonstrates the milk whey extraction, proximate analysis, and biochemical characterization of bioactive compounds in MWE. Effects of MWE on plasma coagulation and platelet aggregation. Proximate analysis of MWE was done according to AOAC. Whey protein banding was confirmed in 12%, 15%, and 18% SDS-PAGEs. A quantitative analysis of bioactive compounds was done. The anticoagulant effects of MWE were tested using plasma recalcification time in both PRP and PPP, further confirmed by PT and APTT assays and in tail bleeding assays at concentrations of 0-100 pg. The non-toxic property of MWE was screened by edema, hemorrhage, and direct hemolytic activities. MWE proximate analysis showed the presence of both micro- and macronutrients. Qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of proteins and carbohydrates. A similar protein-banding pattern was observed in 12%, 15%, and 18% SDS-PAGE's in both reduced and non-reduced conditions. MWE prolonged the clotting time of human citrated plasma, both PRP and PPP, against the control 210 sec to 770 sec, suggesting its anticoagulant property. MWE delayed the clot progress of only the APTT ratio (8.99 ± 0.09), and PT was not altered, suggesting its role in an intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation. MWE exhibited antiplatelet activity in PRP against ADP and epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation. The percentage of inhibition was 74% and 100% for ADP and epinephrine, respectively. Interestingly, MWE exhibits nontoxic properties, it does not cause hemolysis, hemorrhage, or edema. Milk whey extraction and studies confirm bioactive compounds, and these exhibit antithrombotic, antiplatelet, and non-toxic properties. Hence, MWE not only acts as a good nutritive source but also may prove tobe a therapeutic bioactive compound in the management of cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of scientific information on the nutrient composition of cooked rice and glycemic responses of Sri Lankan traditional rice varieties with a high export potential is scarce. This study determined the nutrient composition (moisture, ash, crude fat, and protein, digestible (DC) and total carbohydrate (TC), resistant starch (RS), insoluble (IDF), soluble (SDF), and total dietary fiber (TDF)), amylose, amylopectin, and glycemic indices (GI) of sixteen cooked unpolished traditional rice varieties with standard methods. Cooked rice and rice flour contained 55.9-70.6% (fresh weight) and 6.2-9.5% (dry basis) moisture respectively. Ash, crude fat and protein contents were 1.1-1.6%, 4.1-6.0% and 4.8-9.5% respectively. Digestible carbohydrates comprised 73.8-83.8% with over 80% TC. Cooking increased the RS (1.3-5.5%) while IDF, SDF and TDF of cooked rice were 3.8-6.4%, 0.4-4.8%, and 5.4-9.8% respectively. All varieties contained high amylose (24.2-35.7%) except for one variety and elicited either low or medium GI (49-67). GI and amylose of cooked rice showed a significant (P=0.04) negative correlation. Significant (P<0.05) positive correlation between moisture and rice portions containing 50g of carbohydrate allows the selection of rice that provides low glycemic loads. Unpolished traditional rice, rich in nutrients eliciting low or medium GI are highly suitable in diet plans for controlling the glycemic response and in achieving sustainable health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation aims to elucidate the bioactive constituents present in waste seeds derived from Nicotiana tobacum L., there by contributing to a more holistic comprehension of the health-related implications associated with tobacco plants beyond conventional consumption concerns. Waste seeds from tobacco plants N. tobacum L. were grown during harvest 2021-2022 at the Tobacco and Tobacco Products Institute (part of Bulgarian Agriculture Academy). Chemical analysis of tobacco waste seeds (TWS) encompassed the examination of primary metabolites including lipids (32.1±1.0%), proteins (29.4±1.4 %), and carbohydrates (27.6±0.5 %). Furthermore, various lipid indices (Atherogenicity, Thrombogenicity, Hypocholesterolemic/ hypercholesterolemic, etc.) were computed utilizing the fatty acid composition of the oil extracted from tobacco waste seeds. The results showed that TWS could be utilized with health benefits - seeds are a good resource for n-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid - 71.94±1.05 %) with good atherogenicity and thrombogenicity qualities and natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified flour is widely used in the food industry to enhance viscosity and texture. Previous research has investigated fermenting Bamboo Shoots Flour from Ampel Gading Bamboo which is rich in fiber. Physical process combination, like temperature changes, and chemical modifications using acids or bases, may alter the flour's gel-forming properties, thereby expanding its applications, including as a thickening agent. The objective of this study is to evaluate the physicochemical properties and potential applications of Modified Bamboo Shoots Flour (MBFS) as a thickening agent. The analysis demonstrated that MBSF comprises 28.41% carbohydrates, with 4.88% crude fiber and 18.68% starch, featuring 4.74% amylose and 13.94% amylopectin (wet basis). Additionally, it contains 28.10% protein and 11.17% fat (wet basis), maintaining the characteristic form of MBSF. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) evaluation revealed the presence of ovate-shaped, rough and irregular surface starch granules. Heating a 2% MBSF suspension to 100°C increases viscosity, solubility, and swelling power. Low acidity (pH 10) enhances swelling power without affecting viscosity significantly. Both low acidity and heat treatments enhance the thickening properties of the MBFS. This study offers fundamental insights into the physical and chemical characteristics of MBFS, thereby facilitating its potential application in final products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the nutritional value of cookies is relatively low. To reduce wheat flour usage in the cookies, the freeze-dried whole leaf (WL) and chloroplast-rich fraction (CRF) derived from Thai jasmine rice grass were used as a food ingredient to increase the nutrients of cookies. Chloroplast is a rich source of macro and micronutrients. Thus, the use of chloroplast might improve the nutrients in food products. This research aimed to study the physical and chemical characteristics of freeze-dried WL and CRF from Thai jasmine rice grass. The nutritional and physical properties of the butter cookies substituted wheat flour with WL or CRF (0%, 2%, and 4% (w/w)) were also investigated. The result showed that CRF derived from Thai jasmine rice grass contained a significantly larger amount of macro and micronutrients (protein, lipid, ash, β-carotene, and total carotenoids) compared with WL (P<0.05), except for carbohydrate, fiber, total chlorophyll, and total phenolic compound. Furthermore, the cookies replaced wheat flour with 4% WL from Thai jasmine rice grass, containing the highest fiber led to a decreased spread ratio and increased the hardness of cookies. Whilst the cookies substituted with 4% CRF (w/w) were similar in texture to the cookies containing only wheat flour (P>0.05). Moreover, the replacement of wheat flour with freeze-dried WL and CRF derived from Thai jasmine rice grass enhanced nutrients and antioxidant activity compared with cookies in the absence of WL and CRF. The butter cookies with 4% replacement of WL showed the highest level of chlorophyll and total phenolic; the cookies with 4% replacement of CRF contained the largest amount of β-carotene (provitamin A) and total carotenoids. However, both cookies containing either WL or CRF were not significantly different in antioxidant activity (P>0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to investigate the glycemic index (GI) of various Indian breakfast preparations containing defatted fenugreek seed flakes (Fenuflakes™) using validated protocols in compliance with international standards. Fifteen subjects aged 18 to 45 years with a body mass index of 18.5 to 22.5 kg/m² were recruited for the study. The study assessed six breakfast preparations based on rice (cooked raw rice and idly), wheat (Semolina upma and Potato paratha), potato (potato sandwich), or oat (oat porridge), each with 10 g Fenuflakes (Test) or without Fenuflakes (Control), standardized to 50 g (25 g for oat porridge) of available carbohydrates. After overnight fasting, blood samples for each participant were collected 5 minutes before, immediately after (0 minutes) consuming the food, and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after the consumption of the assigned food breakfast preparations. Each participant consumed the reference food (55 g of glucose in 250 ml of water) for 3 days and the Test or Control food preparation for 6 days in a random order, with a wash-out period of 2 days. The GI of each food preparation was calculated from the incremental area under the curve (IAUC) of glucose in the food with the IAUC of the reference food. The GI of Fenuflakes-incorporated food preparations (Test) shifted from high to low (cooked raw rice) or medium (rice idly, Semolina upma, and potato paratha), or remained unchanged (potato sandwich and oat porridge) as that of compounding controls. In conclusion, Fenuflakes may be a useful addition to Indian breakfast preparations to lower the GI of some rice- or wheat-based Indian breakfast food preparations and lowers postprandial glycemic spikes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper handled the Maillard reaction under controlled conditions to conjugate sour cherry seed protein isolate (SCPI) with gum Arabic (GA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and pectin (P) polysaccharides. Characteristic investigations for conjugates were conducted by browning intensity, glycation degree, amino acid, FTIR, SEM, and TGA analyses. After glycation, the level of lysine and arginine declined. Conjugation process displayed beneficial efficacy on techno-functional attributes, namely solubility, water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, foaming capacity/stability and emulsion activity/stability of SCPI but maximum values in terms of these attributes were variable according to conjugate type. Stability index of emulsions stabilized by using conjugates including SCPI-GA (0.87 R), SCPI-CMC (0.94 R), and SCPI-P (0.95 R) was superior than that of SCPI alone (0.60 R). Centrifugal precipitation rate was 59.17, 36.04, 32.61, and 30.92% for emulsions prepared in the presence of SCPI, SCPI-GA, SCPI-CMC, and SCPI-P, respectively. Resilience to freeze-thawed, pH-shifting, various salt concentrations, and different temperature applications of emulsions were investigated to evaluate emulsifier behavior of protein and conjugates in food systems. Findings showed that emulsifying properties of the conjugates prepared using P and CMC came to the fore compared to SCPI alone and SCPI-GA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both carbon limitation and developmentally driven kernel failure occur in the apical region of maize (Zea mays L.) ears. Failed kernel development in the basal and middle regions of the ear often is neglected because their spaces usually are occupied by adjacent ovaries at harvest. We tested the spatial distribution of kernel losses and potential underlying reasons, from perspectives of silk elongation and carbohydrate dynamics, when maize experienced water deficit during silk elongation. Kernel loss was distributed along the length of the ear regardless of water availability, with the highest kernel set in the middle region and a gradual reduction toward the apical and basal ends. Water deficit limited silk elongation in a manner inverse to the temporal pattern of silk initiation, more strongly in the apical and basal regions of the ear than in the middle region. The limited recovery of silk elongation, especially at the apical and basal regions following rescue irrigation was probably due to water potentials below the threshold for elongation and lower growth rates of the associated ovaries. While sugar concentrations increased or did not respond to water deficit in ovaries and silks, the calculated sugar flux into the developing ovaries was impaired and diverged among ovaries at different positions under water deficit. Water deficit resulted in 58% kernel loss, 68% of which was attributable to arrested silks within husks caused by lower water potentials and 32% to ovaries with emerged silks possibly due to impaired carbohydrate metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccine development against group A Streptococcus (GAS) has gained traction in the last decade, fuelled by recognition of the significant worldwide burden of the disease. Several vaccine candidates are currently being evaluated in preclinical and early clinical studies. Here, we investigate two conjugate vaccine candidates that have shown promise in mouse models of infection. Two antigens, the J8 peptide from the conserved C-terminal end of the M protein, and the group A carbohydrate lacking N-acetylglucosamine side chain (ΔGAC) were each conjugated to arginine deiminase (ADI), an anchorless surface protein from GAS. Both conjugate vaccine candidates combined with alum adjuvant were tested in a non-human primate (NHP) model of pharyngeal infection. High antibody titres were detected against J8 and ADI antigens, while high background antibody titres in NHP sera hindered accurate quantification of ΔGAC-specific antibodies. The severity of pharyngitis and tonsillitis signs, as well as the level of GAS colonisation, showed no significant differences in NHPs immunised with either conjugate vaccine candidate compared to NHPs in the negative control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic co-digestion (AnCoD) presents several advantages over conventional mono-digestion. Various factors can impact the efficiency of the co-digestion process, including the mixing ratio of the feedstocks. This study primarily investigates the effects of different mixing ratios on methane production during the co-digestion of source-separated municipal organic waste (SSO) with thickened waste activated sludge (TWAS). While the C/N or COD/N ratio has generally been used for optimizing the mixing ratios of co-digested feedstocks, a new approach is introduced in this study to evaluate the effects of the lipid, protein, and carbohydrate (L:P:C) ratios on the efficiency of AnCoD with respect to methane production, kinetics, and synergism at mixing ratios of TWAS:SSO of 10:90, 30:70, 50:50, 70:30, and 10:90. AnCoD improved methane production and kinetics relative to TWAS at all mixing ratios, the highest of which was at the 10:90 ratio, corresponding to a methane yield, maximum methane production rate, and an L:P:C ratio of 353 mL CH4/g COD, 25 mL CH4/g COD/d, and 8:1:18, respectively. Improvements in methane yields and kinetics due to synergy were evident at all mixing ratios, with improvements in methane yields ranging from 11 to 23% and improvements in kinetics ranging from 18 to 58%. Improvements in methane yields and kinetics were insensitive to the feedstock composition beyond the 50:50 mixing ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudo-cereals are an excellent source of nutrients, rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, lipids, phytochemicals, and minerals such as magnesium, zinc, copper, sodium, potassium, and calcium. The positive effects of gluten-free pseudo-cereals on the digestive system are an alternative to natural cereals. Pseudo-cereals have prebiotic properties and strengthen digestion by positively affecting the development of probiotic bacteria, especially Lactobacillus. Therefore, the effect of amaranth, a pseudo-cereal, on the activity of L. acidophilus probiotic bacteria, which helps digestion, was determined. First, solvent, acidic, and basic hydrolysis extractions of amaranth in eight different solvent media were performed, and total phenolic content and antioxidant activity values were determined. The total phenolic content values in the gastrointestinal digestion process were investigated by applying three different consumption methods, milling, boiling, and drying, to amaranth grains. L. acidophilus probiotic bacteria were activated with milled, dried, and boiled amaranth, and the increase in viability was examined. While the viability of L. acidophilus activated with milled and dried amaranth increased by 9.47% and 7.46%, respectively, the viability of bacteria activated with boiled amaranth almost did not increase (0.60%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in carbohydrate metabolism prompted its essential role in defense priming and sweet immunity during plant-pathogen interactions. Nevertheless, upstream responding enzymes in the sucrose metabolic pathway and associated carbohydrate derivatives underlying fungal pathogen challenges remain to be deciphered in Populus, a model tree species. In silico deduction of genomic features, including phylogenies, exon/intron distributions, cis-regulatory elements, and chromosomal localization, identified 59 enzyme genes (11 families) in the Populus genome. Spatiotemporal expression of the transcriptome and the quantitative real-time PCR revealed a minuscule number of isogenes that were predominantly expressed in roots. Upon the pathogenic Fusarium solani (Fs) exposure, dynamic changes in the transcriptomics atlas and experimental evaluation verified Susy (PtSusy2 and 3), CWI (PtCWI3), VI (PtVI2), HK (PtHK6), FK (PtFK6), and UGPase (PtUGP2) families, displaying promotions in their expressions at 48 and 72 h of post-inoculation (hpi). Using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS)-based non-targeted metabolomics combined with a high-performance ion chromatography system (HPICS), approximately 307 metabolites (13 categories) were annotated that led to the quantification of 46 carbohydrates, showing marked changes between three compared groups. By contrast, some sugars (e.g., sorbitol, L-arabitol, trehalose, and galacturonic acid) exhibited a higher accumulation at 72 hpi than 0 hpi, while levels of α-lactose and glucose decreased, facilitating them as potential signaling molecules. The systematic overview of multi-omics approaches to dissect the effects of Fs infection provides theoretical cues for understanding defense immunity depending on fine-tuned Suc metabolic gene clusters and synergistically linked carbohydrate pools in trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine the students' misconceptions about the digestive system. In this quantitative research, the study group comprised totally 259 sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students. The data were collected through a three-tier diagnostic test and analyzed in terms of scientific knowledge, the lucky guess, lack of knowledge, and misconception levels of students on digestive system. According to the findings, 20.1% of the students' answers were in the scientific knowledge category and 9.1% were in the lucky guess category. On the other hand, 39.7% of the answers were in the lack of knowledge category and 26.0% were in the misconception category. The most prominent findings in the study were the students' misconceptions in a few questions, especially about physical and chemical digestion. In addition, some students did not fully understand the distinction between the excretory and digestive organs and the functions of some accessory. They also gave incorrect answers about the organs where the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats begins and ends. At the end of the study, suggestions were made to eliminate the misconceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa contributes to frequent, persistent, and, often, polymicrobial respiratory tract infections for individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). Chronic CF infections lead to bronchiectasis and a shortened lifespan. P. aeruginosa expresses numerous adhesins, including lectins known to bind the epithelial cell and mucin glycoconjugates. Blocking carbohydrate-mediated host–pathogen and intra-biofilm interactions critical to the initiation and perpetuation of colonization offer promise as anti-infective treatment strategies. To inform anti-adhesion therapies, we profiled the monosaccharide binding of P. aeruginosa from CF and non-CF sources, and assessed whether specific bacterial phenotypic characteristics affected carbohydrate-binding patterns. Focusing at the cellular level, microscopic and spectrofluorometric tools permitted the solution-phase analysis of P. aeruginosa binding to a panel of fluorescent glycopolymers possessing distinct pendant monosaccharides. All P. aeruginosa demonstrated significant binding to glycopolymers specific for α-D-galactose, β-D-N-acetylgalactosamine, and β-D-galactose-3-sulfate. In each culture, a small subpopulation accounted for the binding. The carbohydrate anomeric configuration and sulfate ester presence markedly influenced binding. While this opportunistic pathogen from CF hosts presented with various colony morphologies and physiological activities, no phenotypic, physiological, or structural feature predicted enhanced or diminished monosaccharide binding. Important to anti-adhesive therapeutic strategies, these findings suggest that, regardless of phenotype or clinical source, P. aeruginosa maintain a small subpopulation that may readily associate with specific configurations of specific monosaccharides. This report provides insights into whole-cell P. aeruginosa carbohydrate-binding profiles and into the context within which successful anti-adhesive and/or anti-virulence anti-infective agents for CF must contend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Converting cellulose to ethylene glycol has been widely reported, while glucose is seldomly used to produce ethylene glycol. This is challenging due to side reactions such as glucose hydrogenation and isomerization, which have lower activation barriers than retro-aldol condensation. Moreover, cellobiose, rather than glucose, is main intermediates in obtaining ethylene glycol from cellulose. In this study, we found that the in situ synthesized RuxWy/biochar catalyst exhibited high activity for converting glucose to EG. The Ru3.5W35/biochar catalyst achieved the highest EG yield of 61.61% under optimized conditions of 200 °C, 3 MPa H2, and 3 h. Characterization techniques were employed, revealing the crucial roles of W5+ and Ru metal states, which were affected by the calcination temperature. The Ru3.5W35/biochar catalyst calcinated at 400 °C exhibited the best performance and was subsequently applied for the conversion of starch, xylose, and sucrose with appreciable yields of ethylene glycol and 1,2-propanediol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate utilization is critical to microbial survival. The phosphotransferase system (PTS) is a well-documented microbial system with a prominent role in carbohydrate metabolism, which can transport carbohydrates through forming a phosphorylation cascade and regulate metabolism by protein phosphorylation or interactions in model strains. However, those PTS-mediated regulated mechanisms have been underexplored in non-model prokaryotes. Here, we performed massive genome mining for PTS components in nearly 15,000 prokaryotic genomes from 4,293 species and revealed a high prevalence of incomplete PTSs in prokaryotes with no association to microbial phylogeny. Among these incomplete PTS carriers, a group of lignocellulose degrading clostridia was identified to have lost PTS sugar transporters and carry a substitution of the conserved histidine residue in the core PTS component, HPr (histidine-phosphorylatable phosphocarrier). Ruminiclostridium cellulolyticum was then selected as a representative to interrogate the function of incomplete PTS components in carbohydrate metabolism. Inactivation of the HPr homolog reduced rather than increased carbohydrate utilization as previously indicated. In addition to regulating distinct transcriptional profiles, PTS associated CcpA (Catabolite Control Protein A) homologs diverged from previously described CcpA with varied metabolic relevance and distinct DNA binding motifs. Furthermore, the DNA binding of CcpA homologs is independent of HPr homolog, which is determined by structural changes at the interface of CcpA homologs, rather than in HPr homolog. These data concordantly support functional and structural diversification of PTS components in metabolic regulation and bring novel understanding of regulatory mechanisms of incomplete PTSs in cellulose-degrading clostridia.

A multicenter observational study was conducted on early lactation Holstein cows (n = 261) from 32 herds from 3 regions (Australia, AU; California, CA; and Canada, CAN) to characterize their risk of acidosis into 3 groups (high, medium, or low) using a discriminant analysis model previously developed. Diets ranged from pasture supplemented with concentrates to total mixed ration (nonfiber carbohydrates = 17 to 47 and neutral detergent fiber = 27 to 58% of dry matter). Rumen fluid samples were collected

BackgroundMucin disulfide cross-links mediate pathologic mucus formation in muco-obstructive lung diseases. MUC-031, a novel thiol-modified carbohydrate compound, cleaves disulfides to cause mucolysis. The aim of this study was to determine the mucolytic and therapeutic effects of MUC-031 in sputum from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and mice with muco-obstructive lung disease (βENaC-Tg mice).MethodsWe compared the mucolytic efficacy of MUC-031 and existing mucolytics (N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and recombinant human deoxyribonuclease I (rhDNase)) using rheology to measure the elastic modulus (G') of CF sputum, and we tested effects of MUC-031 on airway mucus plugging, inflammation and survival in βENaC-Tg mice to determine its mucolytic efficacy in vivo.ResultsIn CF sputum, compared to the effects of rhDNase and NAC, MUC-031 caused a larger decrease in sputum G', was faster in decreasing sputum G' by 50% and caused mucolysis of a larger proportion of sputum samples within 15 min of drug addition. Compared to vehicle control, three treatments with MUC-031 in 1 day in adult βENaC-Tg mice decreased airway mucus content (16.8±3.2 versus 7.5±1.2 nL·mm-2, p

Stunting in children under five years old is a major health problem in Indonesia. A compromised immune system in stunted children increases the risk of infection which has an impact on morbidity and mortality. Moreover, food intake is one of the causes of decreased immunity, where carbohydrate, fiber, and immunoglobulin-A levels in the intestine are related to the immunity of children under five years old. The assessment of feces content can provide an overview of carbohydrates, fiber, and immunoglobulin-A levels in the intestine. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the comparison of carbohydrate, fiber, and immunoglobulin-A levels in feces for stunted children. An observational method with a case-control design was used, and it was conducted in Tuban Regency from May to July 2023. Forty stool samples were obtained from 20 stunted children and 20 non-stunted children who were tested for carbohydrates, fiber, and immunoglobulin-A. Subsequently, the data were analyzed with a comparison test to determine the differences between the two groups. The results showed that carbohydrate and immunoglobulin-A levels were higher, while fiber levels in feces were lower in stunted children (p≥0.05). It was concluded that there were differences in levels of carbohydrates, fiber, and immunoglobulin-A in the intestines of stunted children.

IgE antibodies against the mammalian oligosaccharide allergen galactose-α-1,3-galactose (αGal) can result in a severe allergic disease known as alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). This syndrome, acquired by tick bites that cause αGal sensitization, leads to allergic reactions after ingestion of non-primate mammalian meat and mammalian-derived products that contain αGal. Allergen-specific immunotherapies for this tickborne allergic syndrome are understudied, as are the immune mechanisms of allergic desensitization that induce clinical tolerance to αGal. Here, we reveal that prophylactic administration of αGal glycoprotein-containing nanoparticles to mice prior to tick protein-induced αGal IgE sensitization blunts the production of Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in an αGal-dependent manner. Furthermore, these effects correlated with suppressed production of αGal-specific IgE and hypersensitivity reactions, as measured by reduced basophil activation and histamine release and the systemic release of mast cell protease-1 (MCPT-1). Therapeutic administration of two doses of αGal-containing nanoparticles to mice sensitized to αGal had partial efficacy by reducing the Th2 cytokine production, αGal-specific IgE production, and MCPT-1 release without reducing basophil activation or histamine release. These data identify nanoparticles carrying encapsulated αGal glycoprotein as a potential strategy for augmenting αGal-specific immune tolerance and reveal diverse mechanisms by which αGal nanoparticles modify immune responses for established αGal-specific IgE-mediated allergic reactions.

IntroductionIn recent years, Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) forests in Central Europe have faced escalating threats from bark beetles, primarily Ips typographus (L.), and other species, such as I. duplicatus (Sahlberg). Outbreaks are partially attributed to weakened tree defense resulting from drought periods induced by climate change. This study examines Norway spruce’s physiological and metabolic reactions to acute drought stress during the growing season and evaluates its susceptibility to I. typographus and I. duplicatus.MethodologyIn order to induce drought stress, mature Norway spruces had their roots covered with a roof in April 2021, depriving them of water. Control trees were left with free access to natural rainwater. Over 5 months of the growing season, soil water potential, bark temperature, tree trunk circumference, and sap flow were monitored. Roofed trees and controls were sampled in July, August, and September and analyzed for non-structural carbohydrates and the two classes of defensive compounds, phenolics and terpenes. Furthermore, two different bioassays in tubes and boxes were performed using adult I. typographus and I. duplicatus beetles to assess host choice and acceptance.ResultsRoofed trees exhibited signs of stress as early as July, resulting in decreased tree trunk and a consequent increase in non-structural carbohydrate content. Defensive metabolites remained largely unaffected except for an increase in diterpenes in September. In bioassays, I. typographus preferred boring into the bark of roofed trees in August in tubes and in September in boxes. This increased tree acceptance correlated with increased levels of soluble carbohydrates in the phloem. I. typographus and I. duplicatus beetles showed higher mobility in boxes in August and September on roofed trees but not in July, even though bark surface temperatures were elevated in roof-covered trees during all three bioassay periods.ConclusionThe study revealed rapid physiological responses of trees to acute drought stress, although not many changes were observed in defense traits. Despite the absence of natural bark beetle attacks, drought trees were more accepted by I. typographus than naturally watered trees. This response may indicate the beetles’ preference for trees with phloem of higher nutritional quality induced by the acute drought stress conditions.

The restoration of ecological functions in abandoned Moso bamboo forests facilitates positive succession in evergreen vegetation. Nevertheless, there is a limited understanding regarding the leaf functional traits and nutrient utilization strategies of understory vegetation after abandonment. This study investigated the impact of abandonment duration (9 and 21 years) on leaf morphological traits, soluble sugars characteristics, carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and their ratios in dominant tree seedlings (Lithocarpus brevicaudatus and Schima superba) within Moso bamboo forests. Leaf sizes increased significantly with prolonged abandonment in both species, accompanied by a consistent decrease in leaf thickness and leaf tissue density. These morphological indices were more pronounced in L. brevicaudatus compared to S. superba (P < 0.05), and they showed a positive correlation with tree sizes. Moreover, leaf soluble sugars, C, and C: N: P ratios of both tree species decreased over duration abandonment, while N and P contents increased. Specifically, L. brevicaudatus exhibited elevated levels of fructose, glucose, N, and P, whereas S. superba displayed higher sucrose, C, and C: N: P ratios. Our findings reveal that both species, with extended abandonment, enlarged their leaf area and improved carbon utilization, facilitating adaptation to competitive resource habitats. Particularly, L. brevicaudatus exhibited a propensity to augment leaf sizes, as well as N, and P contents, suggesting a strategy to enhance carbon assimilation through additional N and P nutrient supplementation. Conversely, S. superba primarily focused on bolstering carbohydrate reserves, indicating that moderate thinning or pruning of bamboo forests could boost sunlight penetration, along with the appropriate nutrient supplementation. These insights significantly contribute to the scientific understanding necessary for the classification and management of mixed stands in abandoned bamboo forests.

Laura Lane discusses the tasty truth about dental health and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dihedral angles in organic molecules and biomolecules are vital structural parameters that can be indirectly probed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of vicinal J-couplings. The empirical relations that map the measured couplings to dihedral angles are typically determined by fitting using static structural models, but this neglects the effects of thermal fluctuations at the finite temperature conditions under which NMR measurements are often taken. In this study, we calculate ensemble-averaged J-couplings for several structurally rigid carbohydrate derivatives using first-principles molecular dynamics simulations to sample the thermally accessible conformations around the minimum energy structure. Our results show that including thermal fluctuation effects significantly shifts the predicted couplings relative to single-point calculations at the energy minima, leading to improved agreement with experiments. This provides evidence that accounting for conformational sampling in first-principles calculations can improve the accuracy of NMR-based structure determination for structurally complex carbohydrates.

Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α (HNF4α), a master regulator of hepatocyte differentiation, is regulated by two promoters (P1 and P2) which drive the expression of different isoforms. P1-HNF4α is the major isoform in the adult liver while P2-HNF4α is thought to be expressed only in fetal liver and liver cancer. Here, we show that P2-HNF4α is indeed expressed in the normal adult liver at Zeitgeber time (ZT)9 and ZT21. Using exon swap mice that express only P2-HNF4α we show that this isoform orchestrates a distinct transcriptome and metabolome via unique chromatin and protein-protein interactions, including with different clock proteins at different times of the day leading to subtle differences in circadian gene regulation. Furthermore, deletion of the Clock gene alters the circadian oscillation of P2- (but not P1-)HNF4α RNA, revealing a complex feedback loop between the HNF4α isoforms and the hepatic clock. Finally, we demonstrate that while P1-HNF4α drives gluconeogenesis, P2-HNF4α drives ketogenesis and is required for elevated levels of ketone bodies in female mice. Taken together, we propose that the highly conserved two-promoter structure of the Hnf4a gene is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism to maintain the balance between gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis in the liver in a circadian fashion.

BackgroundCurrent assessment of dietary carbohydrates does not adequately reflect the nutritional properties and effects on gut microbial structure and function. Deeper characterization of food carbohydrate composition can serve to strengthen the link between diet and gastrointestinal health outcomes.ObjectivesThe present study aims to characterize the monosaccharide composition of diets in a healthy US adult cohort and use these features to assess the relationship between monosaccharide intake, diet quality, characteristics of the gut microbiota, and gastrointestinal inflammation.MethodsThis observational, cross-sectional study enrolled males and females across age (18-33 y, 34-49 y, and 50-65 y) and body mass index (normal, 18.5-24.99 kg/m2; overweight, 25-29.99 kg/m2; and obese, 30-44 kg/m2) categories. Recent dietary intake was assessed by the automated self-administered 24-h dietary recall system, and gut microbiota were assessed with shotgun metagenome sequencing. Dietary recalls were mapped to the Davis Food Glycopedia to estimate monosaccharide intake. Participants with >75% of carbohydrate intake mappable to the glycopedia were included (N = 180).ResultsDiversity of monosaccharide intake was positively associated with the total Healthy Eating Index score (Pearson's r = 0.520, P = 1.2 × 10-13) and negatively associated with fecal neopterin (Pearson's r = -0.247, P = 3.0 × 10-3). Comparing high with low intake of specific monosaccharides revealed differentially abundant taxa (Wald test, P < 0.05), which was associated with the functional capacity to break down these monomers (Wilcoxon rank-sum test, P < 0.05).ConclusionsMonosaccharide intake was associated with diet quality, gut microbial diversity, microbial metabolism, and gastrointestinal inflammation in healthy adults. As specific food sources were rich in particular monosaccharides, it may be possible in the future to tailor diets to fine-tune the gut microbiota and gastrointestinal function. This trial is registered at www.Clinicaltrialsgov as NCT02367287.

BACKGROUND: A carbohydrate-restricted diet aimed at lowering insulin levels has the potential to slow Alzheimers disease (AD). Restricting carbohydrate consumption reduces insulin resistance, which could improve glucose uptake and neural health. A hallmark feature of AD is widespread cortical thinning; however, no study has demonstrated that lower net carbohydrate (nCHO) intake is linked to attenuated cortical atrophy in patients with AD and confirmed amyloidosis. OBJECTIVE: We tested the hypothesis that individuals with AD and confirmed amyloid burden eating a carbohydrate-restricted diet have thicker cortex than those eating a moderate-to-high carbohydrate diet. METHODS: A total of 31 patients (mean age 71.4±7.0 years) with AD and confirmed amyloid burden were divided into two groups based on a 130 g/day nCHO cutoff. Cortical thickness was estimated from T1-weighted MRI using FreeSurfer. Cortical surface analyses were corrected for multiple comparisons using cluster-wise probability. We assessed group differences using a two-tailed two-independent sample t-test. Linear regression analyses using nCHO as a continuous variable, accounting for confounders, were also conducted. RESULTS: The lower nCHO group had significantly thicker cortex within somatomotor and visual networks. Linear regression analysis revealed that lower nCHO intake levels had a significant association with cortical thickness within the frontoparietal, cingulo-opercular, and visual networks. CONCLUSIONS: Restricting carbohydrates may be associated with reduced atrophy in patients with AD. Lowering nCHO to under 130 g/day would allow patients to follow the well-validated MIND diet while benefiting from lower insulin levels.

BackgroundOptimal carbohydrate intake is an important and controversial area in the nutritional management of type 2 diabetes. Some evidence indicates that reducing overall carbohydrate intake with a low- or very low-carbohydrate eating plan can improve glycemic control compared to following eating plans that involve greater carbohydrate intake. However, critical knowledge gaps currently prevent clear recommendations about carbohydrate intake levels.MethodsThe LEGEND (Lifestyle Education about Nutrition for Diabetes) Trial aims to compare a very low-carbohydrate diet to a moderate-carbohydrate plate-method diet for glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. This two-site trial plans to recruit 180 adults with type 2 diabetes. We will randomize participants to either a 20-session group-based diet and lifestyle intervention that teaches either a very low-carbohydrate diet or a moderate-carbohydrate plate-method diet. We will assess participants at study entry and 4 and 12 months later. The primary outcome is HbA1c, and secondary outcomes include inflammation (high sensitivity C-reactive protein), body weight, changes in diabetes medications, lipids (small particle LDL, HDL, triglycerides), skeletal metabolism (bone mineral density from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and bone turnover markers serum procollagen type I N propeptide and serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen), and body composition (percent body fat, percent lean body mass).DiscussionThe LEGEND trial is a randomized controlled trial to assess optimal carbohydrate intake in type 2 diabetes by evaluating the effects of a very low-carbohydrate diet vs. a moderate-carbohydrate plate-method diet over a year-long period. The research addresses important gaps in the evidence base for the nutritional management of type 2 diabetes by providing data on potential benefits and adverse effects of different levels of carbohydrate intake.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05237128. Registered on February 11, 2022.

Living cells are extremely complicated systems and composed of hundreds of thousands of diverse biomolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates [...].