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Probiotics are consumed in fermented dairy products or as capsules for their putative health benefits. However, little research has been done to evaluate the effects of the delivery matrix on the health benefits of probiotics in humans. To examine the effects of delivering Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 (BB-12) (log10 10 ± 0.5 CFU/day) via a yogurt smoothie versus a capsule, we monitored the fecal microbiota, gut transit times (GTTs), and fecal excretion of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in healthy adults. In a randomized, four-period, crossover study performed in a partially blind manner, 36 adults were recruited and randomly assigned to four treatments: control yogurt smoothie (YS), yogurt smoothie with BB-12 added prefermentation (PRE), yogurt smoothie with BB-12 added postfermentation (POST), and capsule containing BB-12 (CAP). Participants' fecal microbiota was assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing, GTTs via SmartPill, and fecal SCFAs by gas chromatography (GC) before (baseline) and after each intervention. Participants had significantly higher percentage of Streptococcus after consuming YS versus CAP (P = 0.01). Bifidobacterium-specific terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis revealed a significantly higher percentage of B. animalis after consuming PRE and POST compared to baseline, YS, CAP, and final washout (P < 0.0001). The predominant SCFAs were negatively correlated with GTTs. Consumption of BB-12 delivered in a yogurt smoothie or capsule did not significantly alter the composition of the gut microbiota, GTTs, or fecal SCFA concentration of the study cohort. However, daily consumption of BB-12 in yogurt smoothie may result in higher relative abundance of B. animalis in healthy adults. (This trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT01399996.) IMPORTANCE Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 is a probiotic strain that has been used worldwide since 1985. It has commonly been delivered in fermented dairy products for perceived benefits associated with gut health and enhanced immune function. In addition to fermented dairy products, many new probiotic-containing alternatives such as probiotic-containing juice, probiotic-containing chocolate, and capsules have been developed. While these products provide more options for people to access probiotics, little research has been done on the effect of delivery matrix (dairy versus nondairy) on their efficacy in humans. In addition, it was unclear how yogurt fermentation may influence the survival of BB-12 in the product or on its performance in vivo. The significance of our study is in simultaneously assessing the effect of BB-12, alone and in different delivery vehicles, on the gut transit time, fecal short-chain fatty acids, and the composition of the gut microbiota of the study cohort.

Background Almonds contain lipid, fiber, and polyphenols and possess physicochemical properties that affect nutrient bioaccessibility, which are hypothesized to affect gut physiology and microbiota. Objectives To investigate the impact of whole almonds and ground almonds (almond flour) on fecal bifidobacteria (primary outcome), gut microbiota composition, and gut transit time. Methods Healthy adults (n  = 87) participated in a parallel, 3-arm randomized controlled trial. Participants received whole almonds (56 g/d), ground almonds (56 g/d), or an isocaloric control in place of habitual snacks for 4 wk. Gut microbiota composition and diversity (16S rRNA gene sequencing), SCFAs (GC), volatile organic compounds (GC-MS), gut transit time (wireless motility capsule), stool output and gut symptoms (7-d diary) were measured at baseline and endpoint. The impact of almond form on particle size distribution (PSD) and predicted lipid release was measured (n  = 31). Results Modified intention-to-treat analysis was performed on 79 participants. There were no significant differences in mean ± SD abundance of fecal bifidobacteria after consumption of whole almonds (8.7% ± 7.7%), ground almonds (7.8% ± 6.9%), or control (13.0% ± 10.2%; q  = 0.613). Consumption of almonds (whole and ground pooled) resulted in higher mean ± SD butyrate (24.1 ± 15.0 μmol/g) than control (18.2 ± 9.1 μmol/g; P  = 0.046). There was no effect of almonds on gut microbiota at the phylum level or diversity, gut transit time, stool consistency, or gut symptoms. Almond form (whole compared with ground) had no effect on study outcomes. Ground almonds resulted in significantly smaller PSD and higher mean ± SD predicted lipid release (10.4% ± 1.8%) than whole almonds (9.3% ± 2.0%; P  = 0.017). Conclusions Almond consumption has limited impact on microbiota composition but increases butyrate in adults, suggesting positive alterations to microbiota functionality. Almonds can be incorporated into the diet to increase fiber consumption without gut symptoms. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03581812. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This article prospectively evaluates the adequacy of bowel distension in computed tomography enterography (CTE) with a 45-minute contrast ingestion time and compares it with the most widely used protocol in the literature of 1 hour 20 minutes. Materials and Methods The CTE was performed in 42 consecutive patients divided into two groups—A and B. Group A patients were instructed to drink 2 L of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution over 1 hour 20 minutes. Group B patients were instructed to do the same over 45 minutes. At the end of contrast ingestion, plain and contrast CT abdomen was performed and CTE images were reviewed. Manual quantitative analysis of degree of small bowel distension was performed in the following manner: on coronal images, the abdominal cavity was divided into four quadrants: right upper, left upper, right lower, and left lower quadrants. The maximum small bowel lumen diameter (inner-to-inner wall) was measured in five different loops within each of the four quadrants. If four or more measurements in a quadrant ≥ 1.8 cm (considered “adequate luminal distension”), a score of 1 was assigned to that quadrant. If less than 4 measurements in the quadrant > 1.8 cm, a score of 0 was assigned to that quadrant. The ensuing sum of scores from all four quadrants resulted in the distension grade for that CTE study (Grades 1–4). Results There was a statistically significant difference in the degree of small bowel distension between the two groups with better distension seen in group B (p < 0.001). Conclusion Indians have a rapid gut transit time compared with Western populations. Hence, CTE contrast ingestion time protocols optimized in Western populations may not be suitable in Indians. The shorter 45-minute ingestion protocol provided consistently better luminal distension in our population than the longer 1 hour 20-minute protocol described in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, there are no other studies comparing CTE ingestion time protocols in a given population.

In intensive Atlantic salmon aquaculture, faecal score potentially serves as a generalised indicator of gut microbiome diversity and composition and as a proxy for gut transit time. There is also the possible application to detect dysbiosis. The utility of using faecal scoring for assessing commercially farmed fish populations may, however, be impacted by rapid temporal changes in digestive status following feeding that, as yet, has not been considered. To help inform sampling strategies and better understand the utility of faecal scoring for farmed fish, this study documented Atlantic salmon faecal scores and gut bacterial 16S rRNA amplicon sequence profiles over 24 h following a feeding event. Samples were collected from two marine cohorts of salmon in different seasons (summer and winter), and comparisons were also made between non-destructive stripped hindgut faeces (HS) and destructive sampling of hindgut digesta (HD) and hind gut mucosa (HM). Average hindgut faecal scores and microbiome diversity were largely consistent over a normal (6 to 8 h) sampling day in winter, but were much more variable in summer, potentially associated with faster faecal passage and dynamic gut microbial changes in the hours after feeding. HS samples were determined to be a valid non-destructive method to obtain material for assessing the diversity and composition of transient bacterial communities in the distal intestine. For an accurate representation of both the transient and resident bacterial communities, both sample types should be considered. It is recommended that studies comparing treatment cohorts, or between individuals in large sample sets, should be designed to capture temporal and seasonal effects that are associated with changes in digestive status and gut microbiome. • Temporal change in digesta may confound comparison of gut microbiome in farmed Atlantic salmon. • Hindgut faecal score and microbiome diversity were variable in summer, associated with faster faecal passage. • In winter, sampling up to 23 h post feeding ensures consistency of faecal scores and hindgut microbial composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present study is focused to elucidate the main characteristics of the digestive function of this carnivorous fast-growing fish living at high temperatures. With this aim, we have examined the effects of an increased temperature from 30 to 34 °C on the daily pattern of gastrointestinal pH, enzymatic proteolytic digestive activity and the feed transit time in early juveniles of cobia (Rachycentron canadum), a species living in tropical and subtropical waters with an increasing aquaculture production. Fish were fed two meals a day. Gastric luminal pH was permanently acidic (mean pH values: 2.76–4.74) while the intestinal pH increased from neutral/slightly acidic to slightly alkaline when the digesta was present, with an increasing alkalinity from proximal to distal intestine (mean pH values: 6.05 to 7.69). The temperature did not affect the gastric pH but a slightly higher acidity was induced in the intestine at 34 °C. Pepsin activity showed a daily rhythm at 30 °C with maximum in the middle of the light period, while at 34 °C some hourly changes coinciding with feed adding without a clear daily trend during the 24-h period were observed. The trypsin activity exhibited a daily rhythm at both temperatures with an increase after morning feeding to reach a maximum several hours later. Average pepsin activity during the daily cycle was slightly higher at 34 °C (6.1 and 7.3 U mg−1 BW at 30 and 34 °C respectively), but values were significantly different only at 8 and 24 h after the morning meal. Similarly, the trypsin activity was significantly affected by the temperature only at 8 and 16 h after the morning meal, but daily activity averages were similar (1.20 and 1.29 U g−1 BW at 30 and 34 °C respectively). The partial transit rates of the first meal in the stomach for each period inter-samplings were higher during the first 4-h period and decreased progressively along the rest of the 24-h cycle at both temperatures, but no significant differences were detected at 30 °C. In addition, the transit was notably faster at 34 °C particularly during the first 8 h after feeding, with rates between 100 and 65% of total volume displaced (intake or released) during each 4-h period. In the intestine the transit rate was relatively constant and similar at both temperatures during 12 h after feeding. Then the rates remained very low during the following 12 h. Residence time of the first meal was longer at 30 than at 34 °C, particularly in the stomach (12 h:02 min vs 4 h:54 min respectively). In the intestine the difference was not so large (8 h:18 min vs 6 h:24 min respectively). In a parallel study under same conditions, cobia reared at 30 °C grew faster and showed a more favorable feed conversion ratio than those at elevated temperature (34 °C). The present results indicate that at 34 °C, a subtle increase of proteolytic activity cannot compensate for the faster gut transit rate. Therefore, 30 °C is more appropriate temperature for the early on-growing of cobia because at higher temperatures the digestion efficiency decrease being one of the causes for a lower growth. Highlights • Cobia exhibits a permanent gastric acidification. • Water temperature (30 and 34 °C) does not substantially affect the digestive proteolytic activities. • Both stomach and intestine are filled almost simultaneously. • Transit time was much faster and the residence time lower at 34 °C than at 30 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cladocerans feed on a variety of phytoplankton food sources, which are variable across space and time. Different phytoplankton groups represent different nutritional quality to Daphnia magna (Straus) due to differences in their Redfield stoichiometry or digestibility. We used chlorophyll fluorescence to directly measure phytoplankton group quantity and composition (green algae and cyanobacteria) in the guts of live D. magna and thereby directly assessed differences in gut transit time (GTT). We observed a decrease of GTT with lower food quality relative to the most suitable diet treatment composed only of the green alga: Scenedesmus obliquus (Turpin) Kützing (GTT = 27 min 20 s). Mixed, lower quality diets composed of 75% cyanobacteria, Microcystis aeruginosa (Kützing) and 25% S. obliquus resulted in faster GTT, as did diets exclusively composed of microcystin-lacking cyanobacteria (GTT = 19 min 42 s). The GTT could not be measured when diets were composed exclusively of microcystin-producing M. aeruginosa due to insignificant ingestion of the cyanobacteria. Using Ivlev's Electivity index, we demonstrate that provided with mixed algal food, D. magna was able to avoid ingesting lower quality food (cyanobacteria) in favor of more valuable material (green alga). However, this ability decreases or is lost when exposed to food mixtures dominated by cyanobacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we assessed an easy methodology for testing gut filling dynamics in early fish larvae fed on microdiets by means of image analysis. As model for this study we used gilthead seabream Sparus aurata , a species whose feeding physiology during the larval stage is well-known. Ingestion and food transit assays were carried out at different ages between 9 and 27 days after hatching (dph). Gut content was examined by image analysis in 10 larvae sampled respectively at 0, 20, 40, 60, and 120 min after the first morning meal. Gut fullness level was determined measuring the pigmented area within the digestive cavity. In each sampling point and larvae, relative percentage of shadowed area respect to the total area of intestinal cavity was considered as fullness percentage, assuming that intestinal area and volume are highly correlated. Data obtained were adjusted to an exponential model with maximum asymptotic: C = Cmax(1−e (−bt) ), where C = % fullness; Cmax is the asymptote (theoretical percentage of maximum fullness), t = sampling time (min) and b is a regression parameter indicating the slope of the filling curve. Ingestion rate (I) was calculated as I = Cmax∗b. Ingestion rate was considered as Filling rate taken that the determined data are percentages instead of a number of prey items as usual. Filling rate was expressed as % of total gut volume per time unit. The food transit time (time required to fill completely the gut) was calculated as 100/I. Our results demonstrate that the methodology based in the image analysis of the shadowed area by food within the gut is a useful tool to build saturation curves as a function of time in small early larvae, using early seabream larvae as model. Our results also showed that although food intake increases with age the filling rate of digestive tract is practically constant in the range of age assessed. In summary, feeding rates and gut transit time can be estimated by image analysis in early fish larvae while the body still remains transparent. This methodology is particularly useful for advancing in the feeding behaviour of larvae fed on microdiets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paradox of secondary metabolites, toxic defence compounds produced by plants, in nectar and fruits is well known. Deterrence of feeding by nectarivorous and frugivorous birds is better understood than the effect of these chemicals on the digestive performance of birds. Digestive parameters such as transit time and sugar assimilation are important in assessing nutrient utilization and deterrence may be related to post-ingestive effects involving these parameters. Nectar and many fruits contain mainly sugars and water, and avian consumers compensate for low sugar content in their diet by increasing food intake: this may also increase their intake of secondary metabolites. We investigated how the alkaloid nicotine, naturally present in nectar of Nicotiana species, influences compensatory feeding and digestive performance of nectar-feeding birds. High nicotine concentration negatively affected compensatory feeding and apparent assimilation efficiency of white-bellied sunbirds Cinnyris talatala and Cape white-eyes Zosterops virens ; but nicotine slowed gut transit time only in the latter species. In contrast, food intake and digestive performance of dark-capped bulbuls Pycnonotus tricolor was unaffected by nicotine up to a concentration of 50 μM. Bulbuls are primarily frugivorous; hence, they are more exposed to secondary metabolites than sunbirds and possibly white-eyes. Because their diet is richer in toxins, frugivorous birds may have evolved more efficient detoxification strategies than those of specialist nectar-feeding birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study investigating the plant-herbivore interaction between Sarpa salpa, which has overgrazed seagrass transplants in Portugal, and the seagrasses Cymodocea nodosa, Zostera marina and Zostera noltii, which have been considered for restoration. When offered the choice between the three seagrasses in outdoor tanks, adult S. salpa clearly preferred Z. noltii. Testing the seagrasses separately, mean ± s.d. feeding rates ranged from 21 ± 11 g seagrass fresh mass kg−1 fish mass day−1 for Z. marina to 32 ± 9 g seagrass fresh mass kg−1 fish mass day−1 for C. nodosa and 40 ± 11 g seagrass fresh mass kg−1 fish mass day−1 for Z. noltii (temperature = 16° C). Food-processing rate in S. salpa did not differ between seagrasses, and there was no evidence of a regulation of processing rate according to food intake. Seagrasses differed substantially in nitrogen content and C:N, with C. nodosa containing the highest nitrogen content and lowest C:N (2·5 ± 0·1% and 14·0 ± 1·0), followed by Z. noltii (2·1 ± 0·1% and 17·0 ± 1·0) and Z. marina (1·4 ± 0·1% and 26·0 ± 2·0). Food-processing rate in S. salpa and the nutritional value of the seagrasses were not correlated with the observed feeding preference and rate. The study suggests that C. nodosa and Z. marina are less at risk of overgrazing by S. salpa and might thus be preferable to Z. noltii for seagrass restoration in areas with noticeable abundances of this fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworms have an important role in 'bioturbation'-the mixing of soil due to biological processes. Quantification of earthworm bioturbation relies on estimating earthworm egestion rates which in turn depend on two parameters: the gut content of the worms and the gut transit time (GTT). Gut content can be determined relatively easily, but determining GTT is problematic. The present study aimed at estimating daily soil egestion rates of Aporrectodea caliginosa and Lumbricus terrestris, refining the most common approach for estimating GTT by using fungal spores as natural markers in ingested soil. This approach avoids the use of artificial markers that may adversely affect the earthworms. Gut transit time was estimated by tracking the passage of marked soil through the gut by the appearance of the spores in the egested faeces. Gut transit time was estimated to be 9.6 ± 0.3 h for A. caliginosa and 11.6 ± 0.5 h for L. terrestris. Gut content averaged 465 ± 40(± standard error (SE)) mg dw g dw worm for A. caliginosa and 265 ± 80 mg dw g dw worm for L. terrestris. From these values, daily egestion rates of 1.16 and 0.66 g dw faeces g dw worm d were calculated for A. caliginosa and L. terrestris, respectively. Both values compare well to literature values for each species. The presented method for GTT estimation is inexpensive, rapid and easy to evaluate, with spores being a good alternative to existing markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Almonds contain lipid, fiber, and polyphenols and possess physicochemical properties that affect nutrient bioaccessibility, which are hypothesized to affect gut physiology and microbiota., Objectives: To investigate the impact of whole almonds and ground almonds (almond flour) on fecal bifidobacteria (primary outcome), gut microbiota composition, and gut transit time., Methods: Healthy adults (n = 87) participated in a parallel, 3-arm randomized controlled trial. Participants received whole almonds (56 g/d), ground almonds (56 g/d), or an isocaloric control in place of habitual snacks for 4 wk. Gut microbiota composition and diversity (16S rRNA gene sequencing), SCFAs (GC), volatile organic compounds (GC-MS), gut transit time (wireless motility capsule), stool output and gut symptoms (7-d diary) were measured at baseline and endpoint. The impact of almond form on particle size distribution (PSD) and predicted lipid release was measured (n = 31)., Results: Modified intention-to-treat analysis was performed on 79 participants. There were no significant differences in mean ± SD abundance of fecal bifidobacteria after consumption of whole almonds (8.7% ± 7.7%), ground almonds (7.8% ± 6.9%), or control (13.0% ± 10.2%; q = 0.613). Consumption of almonds (whole and ground pooled) resulted in higher mean ± SD butyrate (24.1 ± 15.0 μmol/g) than control (18.2 ± 9.1 μmol/g; P = 0.046). There was no effect of almonds on gut microbiota at the phylum level or diversity, gut transit time, stool consistency, or gut symptoms. Almond form (whole compared with ground) had no effect on study outcomes. Ground almonds resulted in significantly smaller PSD and higher mean ± SD predicted lipid release (10.4% ± 1.8%) than whole almonds (9.3% ± 2.0%; P = 0.017)., Conclusions: Almond consumption has limited impact on microbiota composition but increases butyrate in adults, suggesting positive alterations to microbiota functionality. Almonds can be incorporated into the diet to increase fiber consumption without gut symptoms.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03581812., (© The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Society for Nutrition.)

Abstract: Yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) are farmed in sea cages in South Australian waters and exposed to seasonal variations in water temperature. The temperature variations, ranging from 10 to 24°C, influence feed intake and on-farm feeding practices. Sub-adult yellowtail kingfish are fed twice daily in summer while feeding in winter may be reduced to once every second day. Lower winter water temperatures increase gut transit times which may lead to a condition known as winter syndrome. This syndrome causes an enteritis response in yellowtail kingfish and reduces farm productivity. The impact of water temperature on gut transit time, nutrient digestibility and protease and lipase enzyme activities in yellowtail kingfish (2.12±0.03 and 2.77±0.03kg live weight in summer and winter respectively) was investigated at summer and winter water temperatures; 20.8±0.4°C and 12.6±0.1°C respectively, using observations made on dissected fish and detection of the passage of dietary markers. Water temperature had a significant effect on gut transit time, with visual observations demonstrating that at summer water temperatures it takes 12–16h for all digesta to be voided from the fish compared to 36–48h at winter temperatures. Temperature did not have a significant effect on the dietary nutrient apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC, %) although there was a numerical tendency for nutrient ADC to be higher in the posterior intestine at summer water temperatures: 46% vs. 35% for dry matter; 70% vs. 67% for protein; 66% vs. 58% for fat; and 70% vs. 63% for energy. Nutrient digestibility did not differ significantly between the anterior and posterior intestinal sections; however, the ADC values were consistently higher in posterior intestine. Protease activity was significantly higher in the posterior intestine and there was also a numerical, but not significant, increase in protease and lipase activities in the anterior section of the intestine during winter. Lipase activity was significantly higher in the anterior intestine during summer, when compared to the posterior section, and numerically higher in this section during winter. In winter it was found that a greater proportion of nutrient digestion occurred in the stomach, pyloric caeca and anterior intestine when compared to summer. This was thought to be due to the slower gut motility and higher enzyme activities observed during winter. Even though gut transit time was slower in winter, the lower water temperature also resulted in nutrient digestibility that was numerically lower. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: This literature review reports the effectiveness of two peripheral opioid antagonists to relieve constipation caused by prolonged use of opioids, primarily in patients with advanced cancer. Background: Opioid-induced constipation can cause great discomfort to patients who use opioids for prolonged periods and on occasion decline pain-relief in an effort to help aid laxation. The use of peripheral opioid antagonists can help reverse the slowing of the gut caused by the opioids, but the correct one must be used in order not to reverse the important analgesic effects the opioids provide. Data sources: Information was obtained by searching the databases British Nursing Index, CINAHL and Medline. Review methods: Selection criteria were as follows: original research in the form of randomized controlled trials; articles had to be written in English; articles had to focus on the effectiveness of naloxone and methylnaltrexone in the treatment of opioid-induced constipation; the search was limited to the period 1990--2008. Results: Nineteen articles were included in the study. The results from the studies indicate that due to fewer withdrawal effects and less reversal of analgesia experienced, methylnaltrexone is more effective at relieving opioid-induced constipation. Conclusion: The recent development of methylnaltrexone into a commercially-viable drug indicates its effectiveness. It may help patients suffering from the intense discomfort that constipation can cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Secondary compounds are common in floral nectar but their relative effects on nectar consumption and utilization in nectarivorous birds are unclear.2. We studied the effect of two pyridine alkaloids, nicotine and anabasine, present in Tree Tobacco (Nicotiana glauca) nectar, on food consumption, gut transit time and sugar assimilation efficiency of the Palestine Sunbird (Nectarinia osea), a pollinator ofN. glaucain east Mediterranean ecosystems.3. Sunbirds demonstrated dose-dependent deterrence; they were not deterred by the lowest natural concentrations of these alkaloids in nectar (0·1 ppm nicotine and 0·6 ppm anabasine) but they were significantly deterred by the average concentrations detected in nectar (0·5 ppm nicotine and 5 ppm anabasine).4. The two pyridine alkaloids reduced gut transit time (by 30–42%) and sugar assimilation efficiency (by 9–17%) compared with the control alkaloid-free diet.5. Sunbirds are able to cope with low, but not average, concentrations of nicotine and anabasine inN. glaucanectar. If sunbirds are efficient pollinators ofN. glaucathey may induce selection on it to reduce pyridine alkaloid production in the nectar. Alternatively, high concentrations in someN. glaucaplants may lead the birds to visit more plants with lower alkaloid concentrations. Hence, they will be more efficient pollinators, especially if other nectar-producing plants are scarce.Functional Ecology(2004)18, 844–850 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesized that there would be no difference in apparent absorption, as assessed by urinary excretion, between isoflavone sources rich in glucosides or aglucons and that subjects with rapid gut transit time (GTT) and low fecal isoflavone degradation phenotype would absorb more isoflavones. Women (n = 13) with a fecal daidzein degradation rate constant, Dk > 0.30 h-1 (high degraders) and GTT of 106 ± 11 h and women (n = 12) with Dk < 0.20 h-1 (low degraders) and GTT of 71 ± 12 h were randomly assigned to 3 treatments: soygerm (1.1 μmol/kg body weight, n = 5 high degraders, 4 low degraders), fermented soygerm (3.3 μmol/kg, n = 4 high and 4 low degraders) or Novasoy isoflavone extract (1.5 μmol/kg, n = 4 high and 4 low degraders) for 7 d. By HPLC analysis, 24-h urinary excretion of soygerm was greater than Novasoy (51 ± 6 vs. 26 ± 6% of ingested dose, P < 0.05). Women of the low daidzein degradation phenotype had greater urinary isoflavone excretion than did women of the high daidzein degradation phenotype (51.6 ± 4.8 vs. 33.8 ± 4.7%, P < 0.05, mean of dl and 7). The plasma total isoflavone level (estimated as a percentage of the ingested amount, mean of d 1 and 7) differed between women who consumed fermented soygerm and soygerm 3 h after feeding (1.8 ± 0.3 vs. 0.5 ± 0.3%, P < 0.05). Urinary excretions of aglucons and glucosides did not differ. The study confirmed that rapid GTT and low fecal isoflavone degradation rate increased the apparent absorption of isoflavones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented milk products containing the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010 (BM) have a beneficial effect in reducing gut transit times in a range of populations including adults and the elderly, especially female. The aims of this study were to investigate the efficacy of one and two servings per day of BM in elderly subjects and to determine the duration of the reduction in transit times after stopping consumption of the product. This was a randomized controlled and open study with four groups; 200 elderly subjects (aged 50-75 years) were enrolled in the trial. In all, 100 subjects with medium transit times (MTT, 40-50 h) and 100 with slow transit times (STT, >50 h) were randomized to receive either 125 g or 250 g BM daily for 2 weeks. Oro-faecal gut transit was determined by the use of coloured markers. Both dosages significantly reduced oro-faecal transit time with reductions of 20.5% and 42.2% observed in MTT subjects receiving BM 125 g/day and 250 g/day, respectively ( p <0.0001). Corresponding reductions in STT subjects were 27.7% and 38.1%, respectively. The beneficial effects of BM lasted long after consumption of the product was stopped, with values returning to baseline in subjects with MTT at 6 weeks follow-up and in STT subjects consuming 125 g/day BM at 4 weeks follow-up. Significant differences in transit times were still observed at week 6 of follow-up in STT subjects receiving 250 g/day BM. This study completes and confirms the dose-dependent effects of BM from 0 to 250 g per day and can be compared with similar results obtained with 250 to 375g per day in a previous study on transit times in elderly subjects. It also demonstrates that there are significant beneficial effects long after consumption of the product has stopped. The results suggest an important role for this probiotic dairy product in fundamentally modulating gastrointestinal function that could beneficially affect the host, and hence reduce the susceptibility to conditions associated with delayed gut transit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut load and gut transit time (GTT) of the endogeic earthworm Hormogaster elisae in laboratory cultures at 18 °C and 23 ºC were studied. The GTT, 5.25 h ± 0.40 at 18 ºC and 3.63 h ± 0.46 at 23 ºC, was determined by staining the soil with alimentary colouring (tartrazine). The gut load was calculated with two methods: earthworm mass difference, before and after voiding the gut, and dry mass of the gut content. The gut load ranged between 168 and 261 mg wet mass g live earthworm mass–1 (mass difference method) or 137–196 mg dry mass g live earthworm mass–1 (dry mass method). With the obtained data a potential annual soil turnover for H. elisae was calculated: 211–470 kg wet soil mass kg live earthworm mass–1 year–1 (mass difference method) or 176–325 kg dry soil mass kg live earthworm mass–1 year–1 (dry mass method). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

I examined the digestive physiology of two avian frugivores, the golden-collared manakin, Manacus vitellinus, and the red-capped manakin, Pipra mentalis, to discover how these birds extract energy from fruit. Using 14 species of fruit in the natural diet of manakins, I examined the assimilation of nutrients from fruit pulp, fruit passage rates, seed passage rates, and gut morphology. Fruits in the manakins' diets had high water content (average, 84%) and low nutrient concentrations (3 kJ/g wet pulp; 17 kJ/g dry pulp; 1% nitrogen/g dry pulp). Manacus and Pipra did not differ in the average assimilation of energy in fruit pulp (63%), although it varied from 37 to 84% depending on fruit species. Assimilation of total nonstructural carbohydrates in the fruit pulp was very high (86-98%) in both species. Gut evacuation was rapid; maximum transit time of a labeled fruit was 30 min. Seeds passed through the gut faster ( Manacus: 15 min; Pipra: 12 min) than the accompanying fruit epidermis (both spp: 22 min). Manakins regurgitated large seeds (>5 mm diameter) in 7 to 9 min. Rapid gut passage time, high assimilation of nonstructural carbohydrates, and the selective regurgitation and rapid elimination of bulky seeds enable manakins to process a large volume of food per day. By increasing rates of fruit intake and gut passage, manakins can effectively increase total nutrient uptake. These adaptations of manakins are requisite for harvesting sufficient nutrients from fruit, due to its low nutrient density, high water content, and bulky seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to quantify starch digestion within the small and large bowels separately when raw potato starch (RPS) was included at 0-240 g/kg in diets fed to growing male Wistar rats. RPS was incorporated in the diets at the expense of maize starch which was expected to be almost completely digested in the small bowel. The digestibility of the maize starch was 0.99 but only 0.28 of the RPS was digested before the terminal ileum so that with increasing intakes of RPS there was a progressive increase in starch supply to the large bowel (LB). Of this starch 0.77, 0.72 and 0.73 was fermented in the large bowel when RPS constituted 80, 160 and 240 g/kg diet respectively. With increasing RPS intake, there was a curvilinear response in molar proportion of butyrate in caecal contents with a maximum value at about 80 g RPS/kg diet. The molar proportion of acetate increased linearly, that of propionate was unchanged, whilst proportions of the minor short-chain fatty acids all declined markedly with increasing RPS intake. The novel marker Bacillus stearothermophilus spores (BSS) was compared with CrEDTA in estimation of whole-gut mean transit time (MTT) when given together in a single test meal. Whilst estimates of MTT for the two markers were strongly correlated within individual rats (r2 0.72), BSS produced estimates that were 13 h longer than those based on CrEDTA. Neither marker detected a change in MTT with increasing RPS intake but, with both, the rate constant (k1) for the ‘largest mixing pool’ declined significantly (P < 0.001) as dietary RPS concentration was changed from 0-240g/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: Konjac oligo-glucomannan (KOG) is a non-digestible dietary fiber that is resistant to digestion and absorption in gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Thus, it might be used as an alternative management for constipation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of KOG on gut motility and microbiota to relieve constipation in mice., Methods: Mice received Bifidobacterium animalis, lactulose, konjac glucomannan (KGM), or KOG for 14 d. Constipation was induced by 5 mg/kg loperamide days 12 through 14 in all groups except the control. Defecation frequency, small intestinal transit, and total gut transit time were indicated by counting the number of feces, and using charcoal meal and Evans blue as markers, respectively. Smooth muscle (SM) contraction and gut motility were evaluated by organ bath and GI motility monitor system. Gut microbiota were measured by fluorescence in situ hybridization technique., Results: KOG significantly (P < 0.01) increased defecation frequency and small intestinal transit but decreased total gut transit time when compared with the constipation-without-treatment group. These results were similar to the effects of Bifidobacterium animalis, lactulose, and KGM. KOG ameliorated the effect of loperamide on contraction frequency of distal colonic circular SM. The motility patterns were changed in the KOG group from non-propagation to propagation contraction. KOG significantly inhibited the effects of loperamide on gut microbiota by increasing the numbers of Bifidobacterium spp. and decreasing the numbers of Clostridium spp. and Bacteroides spp., Conclusion: These results suggest that KOG acts as a prebiotic and stimulant laxative for relief and prevention of constipation., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

• Besides prebiotic-like effects, DFO acts as a bulk-forming and stimulant laxative. • DFO increased fecal pellet output and velocity. • DFO increased non-propagation contractions, eradicating diarrheal symptoms. • DFO increased colonic smooth muscle contractions without morphological effects. • DFO is suitable for inclusion as a food supplement to promote gut health. Dragon fruit oligosaccharide (DFO) has a prebiotic property which improves gut health by selectively stimulating the colonic microbiota. Altering microbiota composition may affect intestinal motility. However, no study has been done to understand the DFO effects on gut motor functions. This research thus aimed to investigate the DFO effects on mice colons compared to the prebiotic fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) and probiotic bifidobacteria. The mice in this study received distilled water; 100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg DFO; 1000 mg/kg FOS; or 109 CFU Bifidobacterium animalis daily for 1 week and some treatments for 2 weeks. Gastrointestinal transits were analysed and motility patterns, smooth muscle (SM) contractions and morphological structures of the colons were assessed. Administration of FOS, 500 and 1000 mg/kg DFO significantly increased fecal output when compared to the control group. In mice treated with FOS and bifidobacteria, gut transit time was reduced, while upper gut transit was increased in comparison to DFO groups. Spatiotemporal maps of colonic wall motions showed that DFO increased the number of colonic non-propagation contractions and fecal pellet velocity, consistent with the results from groups treated with FOS and bifidobacteria. DFO also increased the amplitude and duration of colonic SM contractions. Histological stains showed normal epithelia, crypts, goblet cells, and SM thickness in all groups. In conclusion, DFO increased colonic SM contractions without morphological change and acted as a bulk-forming and stimulant laxative to increase fecal output and intestinal motility. Thus, DFO as a dietary supplement may promote gut health and correct gastrointestinal motility disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alien invasive species pose a major threat to socioecological systems worldwide. Native avian frugivores may enhance the dispersal and germination success of exotic plants introduced for ornamental motives. In this study, we investigated the role of the native Rufous-backed Robin (Turdus rufopalliatus) as a potential dispersal agent of the worldwide invasive Brazilian pepper-tree (Schinus terebinthifolius). We evaluated gut transit time and mean retention time for birds feeding on this plant fruits and compared the germination rate and germination probability of intact fruits, peeled seeds, scarified seeds, and seeds from bird fecal samples. Gut transit time varied from 1.26 to 13.65 min, while mean retention time varied from 3.4 to 11.3 min. Germination rates differed between the intact seeds and the other three treatments; however, we found no differences among the germination rates of peeled, scarified, and defecated seeds. We found no differences among the seed germination probabilities of all treatments using the survival analysis; however, intact seeds presented a lower germination probability. Few studies have evaluated the role of avian frugivore's gut transit time, mean retention time, germination rate, and germination probability on the seed germination of invasive plants. This study indicates that a native fruit-eating bird can play an important role dispersing the seeds of the Brazilian pepper-tree in an invasive range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of radio-opaque markers and abdominal X-ray is the standard method for determining colonic transit time (CTT). However, when there are deviations in the intake of these markers by participants in clinical trials it is desirable to improve observations by introducing corrections, where possible. To date, there is no standard procedure to adjust for such deviations. This report proposes a series of alternatives based on possible scenarios for deviations from the intended intake of radio-opaque markers. The proposed method to correct for missed or delayed consumption of radio-opaque markers can help to increase the accuracy of the CTT measurements in clinical trials., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: Alvin Ibarra, Kaisa Olli and Arthur C Ouwehand were employees of DuPont during the preparation of the Letter to the Editor and declare no other conflicts of interest.

Abstract Background: In tropical sprue (TS), response to antibiotics may suggest a role for bacterial contamination of the small bowel, which is known in diseases with prolonged orocecal transit time (OCTT). Methods: We studied 13 patients with TS (diagnosed by standard criteria) for frequency, nature and degree of bacterial contamination of the small bowel by quantitative culture of jejunal aspirate, glucose hydrogen breath test (GHBT), and OCTT by lactulose hydrogen breath test before and after treatment. Twelve patients with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and 12 healthy subjects served as controls. Results: Ten of 13 patients with TS had bacterial contamination compared with 3/12 with IBS (all aerobic, P < 0.05). Median colony count in TS (36 000 CFU/mL, 400 to > 100 000) was higher than IBS (700 CFU/mL, 100–1000, P < 0.05). Gram-negative aerobic bacilli were commonly isolated in TS but not in IBS. Median OCTT was longer in TS (180 m, 40 - 240) than IBS (110 m, 70 - 150, P = 0.008) and healthy subjects (65 m, 40 - 110, P = 0.0007, Wilcoxon rank sum test). Orocecal transit time in TS correlated with fecal fat (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient 0.69, P < 0.05). Orocecal transit time and fecal fat, repeated in 8/13 patients, decreased with treatment for TS (195 m, 130–240 vs 125 m, 90–200, P = 0.02; 8 g/24 h, 6.8–19.6 vs 7 g/24 h, 4.2–9, P = 0.04, respectively). Conclusion: Aerobic bacterial contamination of the small bowel is common in patients with TS. Prolonged OCTT in TS correlated with fecal fat and normalized in a subset of patients after treatment. © 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]