Temporal changes in the fermentation characteristics, bacterial community structure and the functionality of the predicted metagenome of a batch fermenter medium containing the upper gastrointestinal enzyme resistant fraction of white sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)

Sorghum is a potential prebiotic ascribed to the high native resistant starch (RS) content. Our previous studies on raw sorghum have revealed prominent amino acid fermentation despite the high RS content. Interestingly, autoclaved-freeze-dried sorghum fed rats exhibited beneficial microbial and biochemical profiles. Having a keen interest to reciprocally scrutinize the underlying mechanisms behind these contrasting outcomes, we used an in vitro porcine batch fermentation model. The fermentable substrates in raw and autoclaved-freeze-dried (three cycles) sorghum (AC) after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion fostered similar bacterial community structures, yet with significant differences in the characteristic amylolytic microbial taxa abundance and their temporal variation. Further, significant differences in the concentration of organic acids in raw and AC manifested the differences in the predicted abundance of the underlying pathways of carbohydrate and organic acid metabolism. Thus, this study highlights the propensity of the heat-moisture treatment of sorghum in modifying the fermentability of its RS.

Involvement of the vagus nerve and hepatic gene expression in serum adiponectin concentrations in mice

Several humoral factors, such as adiponectin and urate, have been suggested to affect metabolic syndromes. Previously, we reported a reduction in blood adiponectin concentrations after a high-fructose diet partially via the vagus nerve in rats. Although a lithogenic diet (LD), i.e., supplementation of a normal control diet (CT) with 0.6% cholesterol and 0.2% sodium cholate, reduced blood adiponectin concentrations, the involvement of the vagus nerve in this mechanism remains unclear. To estimate the involvement of the vagus nerve in the regulation of blood adiponectin concentrations using an LD, male imprinting control region mice that had been vagotomized (HVx) or only laparotomized (Sham) were administered a CT or an LD for 10 weeks. Serum adiponectin concentrations in the Sham-LD, HVx-CT, and HVx-LD groups were reduced by half compared with the Sham-CT group. The hepatic mRNA levels of fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21), which reportedly stimulates adiponectin secretion from white adipose tissue, were lower in the LD groups compared with the CT groups. HepG2 hepatoma cells showed that various bile acids reduced the mRNA expression of FGF21. Moreover, the LD increased serum urate concentrations and reduced hepatic expressions of the acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (Acox1) mRNA and glucokinase, suggesting insufficient regeneration of ATP from AMP. In conclusion, serum adiponectin concentration may be regulated via the vagus nerve in normal mice, whereas a reduction of hepatic Fgf21 mRNA by bile acids may also lower serum adiponectin levels. Moreover, the LD may promote hepatic AMP accumulation and subsequently increase the serum urate concentration in mice.

An extremely energetic cosmic ray observed by a surface detector array

Cosmic rays are energetic charged particles from extraterrestrial sources, with the highest-energy events thought to come from extragalactic sources. Their arrival is infrequent, so detection requires instruments with large collecting areas. In this work, we report the detection of an extremely energetic particle recorded by the surface detector array of the Telescope Array experiment. We calculate the particle's energy as [Formula: see text] (~40 joules). Its arrival direction points back to a void in the large-scale structure of the Universe. Possible explanations include a large deflection by the foreground magnetic field, an unidentified source in the local extragalactic neighborhood, or an incomplete knowledge of particle physics.

Gut microbiota-derived lipid metabolites facilitate regulatory T cell differentiation

Commensal bacteria-derived metabolites are critical in regulating the host immune system. Although the impact of gut microbiota-derived hydrophilic metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, on immune cell functions and development has been well documented, the immunomodulatory effects of gut microbiota-derived lipids are still of interest. Here, we report that lipid extracts from the feces of specific-pathogen-free (SPF), but not germ-free (GF), mice showed regulatory T (Treg)-cell-inducing activity. We conducted RP-HPLC-based fractionation and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based lipidome profiling and identified two bioactive lipids, 9,10-dihydroxy-12Z-octadecenoic acid (9,10-DiHOME) and all-trans retinoic acid (atRA), with Treg-inducing activity in vitro. The luminal abundance of 9,10-DiHOME in the large intestine was significantly decreased by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, indicating that 9,10-DiHOME may be a potential biomarker of colitis. These observations implied that commensal bacteria-derived lipophilic metabolites might contribute to Treg development in the large intestine.

In vitro colonic fermentation characteristics of barley-koji differ from those of barley

Barley-koji is prepared by inoculating barley, a beneficial prebiotic source, with the fungi Aspergillus luchuensis mut. kawachii. In this study, the prebiotic effects of barley-koji on human colonic microbiota were evaluated in vitro compared with barley, using pig feces. The enzyme-resistant fraction of following sample groups each were added to respective fermenters: cellulose, barley (Commander and β104), and barley-koji (Commander-koji and β104-koji). Short-chain fatty acid and ammonia-nitrogen production increased and decreased, respectively, in barley-koji and barley groups. Furthermore, the propionate concentration increased in the barley group, showing a positive correlation with the abundance of the genus Dialister. In the barley-koji group, however, acetate and n-butyrate concentrations increased during the early stages of incubation, and the relative abundance of the genus Megasphaera was higher than those of the other genera. Therefore, this study demonstrated that barley-koji might possess beneficial physiological properties for colonic fermentation, which differ from those of barley.

Skate-skin mucin, rich in sulfated sugars and threonine, promotes proliferation of Akkermansia muciniphila in feeding tests in rats and in vitro fermentation using human feces

Dietary factors, affect Akkermansia muciniphila (AM) abundance in the colon, have attracted attention, driven by the inverse correlation between AM abundance and metabolic disorders. We prepared skate-skin mucin (SM), porcine stomach mucin (PM), and rat gastrointestinal mucin (RM). SM contained more sulfated sugars and threonine than PM or RM. Rats were fed a control diet or diets including SM, PM, or RM (15 g/kg), or SM (12 g/kg) from 5 different threonine contents for 14 d. Cecal total bacteria and AM were less and more numerous, respectively, in SM-fed rats than the others, but SM did not affect microbial species richness. Low-threonine SM did not induce AM proliferation. The in vitro fermentation with human feces showed that the rate of AM increase was greater with SM than PM. Collectively, heavy SM sulfation facilitates a priority supply of SM-derived amino sugars and threonine that promotes AM proliferation in rats and human feces.

Combined effects of BARLEYmax and cocoa polyphenols on colonic microbiota and bacterial metabolites in vitro

BARLEYmax, a barley variety, and cocoa polyphenols (CPPs) have been reported to affect bacterial metabolites in the colon. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of BARLEYmax and CPPs supplementation on fecal microbiota in vitro using pig feces for 48 h. The relative abundances of the family Clostridiaceae and the genus Clostridium and ammonia-nitrogen production were decreased by both BARLEYmax and CPP supplementation, and there was a positive correlation between their abundances and the ammonia-nitrogen concentration. Although acetate and n-butyrate production was decreased by CPP supplementation, their concentrations were maintained at a higher level in the BARLEYmax + CPP group than in the cellulose (control) and cellulose + CPP groups. Therefore, this study demonstrated that a combination of BARLEYmax and CPPs may be beneficial in maintaining higher short-chain fatty acid production and the elimination of potentially harmful factors.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-021-00959-z.

Dietary Ethanolamine Plasmalogen Alleviates DSS-Induced Colitis by Enhancing Colon Mucosa Integrity, Antioxidative Stress, and Anti-inflammatory Responses via Increased Ethanolamine Plasmalogen Molecular Species: Protective Role of Vinyl Ether Linkages

Dietary ethanolamine plasmalogen (PlsEtn) has been reported to have several health benefits; however, its functional role during colon pathophysiology remains elusive. The present study investigated the anticolitis effect of dietary ethanolamine glycerophospholipids (EtnGpls) with high PlsEtn from ascidian muscle (86.2 mol %) and low PlsEtn from porcine liver (7.7 mol %) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Dietary EtnGpls lowered myeloperoxidase activity, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, proinflammatory cytokines and proapoptosis-related protein levels in colon mucosa after 16 days of DSS treatment, with ascidian muscle (0.1% EtnGpl in diet) showing higher suppression than porcine liver (0.1% EtnGpl in diet). Moreover, dietary EtnGpls suppressed DSS symptoms after 38 days of DSS treatment as evidenced by increased body weight, colon length, and ameliorated colon mucosa integrity. Additionally, dietary EtnGpls elevated short-chain fatty acid production in DSS-treated mice. Altogether, these results indicate the potential of utilizing diets with abundant PlsEtn for the prevention of colon inflammation-related disorders.

Deciphering the colonic fermentation characteristics of agavin and digestion-resistant maltodextrin in a simulated batch fermentation system

Gut microbial fermentation of soluble dietary fibers promotes general and substrate-specific health benefits. In this study, the fermentation characteristics of two soluble branched-dietary fibers, namely, agavin (a type of agave fructans) and digestion-resistant maltodextrin (RD) were investigated against cellulose, using a simulated colonic fermenter apparatus employing a mixed culture of swine fecal bacteria. After 48 h of complete fermentation period, the microbial composition was different among all groups, where Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp. dominated the agavin treatment, while the members of the families Lachnospiraceae and Prevotellaceae dominated the RD treatment. Agavin treatment exhibited a clearly segregated two-phased prolonged fermentation trend compared to RD treatment as manifested by the fermentation rates. Further, the highest short-chain fatty acids production even at the end of the fermentation cycle, acidic pH, and the negligible concentration of ammonia accumulation demonstrated favorable fermentation attributes of agavin compared to RD. Therefore, agavin might be an effective and desirable substrate for the colonic microbiota than RD with reference to the expressed microbial taxa and fermentation attributes. This study revealed a notable significance of the structural differences of fermentable fibers on the subsequent fermentation characteristics.

Bile acids induced hepatic lipid accumulation in mice by inhibiting mRNA expression of patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein

Preliminary studies have shown that a lithogenic diet (LG), which contains cholesterol and cholic acid, induces gallstones and hepatic lipid accumulation (HLA), and reduction of blood triglyceride in mice. We hypothesized that an LG induces HLA by diminishing hepatic triglyceride excretion; however, there is no clear understanding of the mechanism of LG-induced HLA. This study aimed to investigate transcript expression related to the synthesis, expenditure, and efflux of hepatic triglyceride, in mice fed an LG for 4 weeks. Results showed lower plasma concentrations of triglyceride in the LG group than in the control group, but no symptoms of hepatic injury were observed. Hepatic mRNA expressions of patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 3 (Pnpla3), microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (Mttp), and acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (Acox1) were also reduced in the LG group. Deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid promoted intracellular lipid accumulation, reduced triglyceride concentration in media, and suppressed expression of PNPLA3 and MTTP in HepG2 human hepatoma cells. These findings suggest that deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid promote HLA by inhibiting the expression of PNPLA3, ACOX1, and MTTP that are involved in lipid metabolism.

Effect of polyphenols isolated from purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas cv. Ayamurasaki) on the microbiota and the biomarker of colonic fermentation in rats fed with cellulose or inulin

A polyphenol-rich diet has been associated with various health benefits. This study assessed the effects of polyphenol/anthocyanin isolated from a purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas cv. Ayamurasaki) on colonic fermentation in cellulose- or inulin-fed rats. Male Fischer-344 rats were assigned to one of these experimental diets: 5% cellulose (CEL), 5% CEL + 1% purple sweet potato polyphenol extract (CELP), 5% inulin (INU), and 5% INU + 1% purple sweet potato polyphenol extract (INUP) in each diet. The purple sweet potato polyphenol extract (PSPP) increased the relative abundance of Dorea and reduced the relative abundances of Oscillospira and Bacteroides in cellulose- or inulin-fed rats, respectively. Besides, PSPP reduced the caecal iso-butyrate and pH in the cellulose-fed rats. Further, PSPP triggered an increase in the caecal mucin level when combined with cellulose and increased the caecal IgA level while reducing the indole production in both the cellulose- or inulin-fed rats. Finally, PSPP may have different effects on the intestinal fermentation properties depending on the fermentability of dietary fiber associated with it. Therefore, this study demonstrated that dietary inclusion of polyphenol/anthocyanin from purple sweet potato might confer positive health attributes to the host gut.

Constraints on Cosmic Strings Using Data from the Third Advanced LIGO-Virgo Observing Run

We search for gravitational-wave signals produced by cosmic strings in the Advanced LIGO and Virgo full O3 dataset. Search results are presented for gravitational waves produced by cosmic string loop features such as cusps, kinks, and, for the first time, kink-kink collisions. A template-based search for short-duration transient signals does not yield a detection. We also use the stochastic gravitational-wave background energy density upper limits derived from the O3 data to constrain the cosmic string tension Gμ as a function of the number of kinks, or the number of cusps, for two cosmic string loop distribution models. Additionally, we develop and test a third model that interpolates between these two models. Our results improve upon the previous LIGO-Virgo constraints on Gμ by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude depending on the model that is tested. In particular, for the one-loop distribution model, we set the most competitive constraints to date: Gμ≲4×10^{-15}. In the case of cosmic strings formed at the end of inflation in the context of grand unified theories, these results challenge simple inflationary models.

Constraints on Cosmic Strings Using Data from the Third Advanced LIGO-Virgo Observing Run

We search for gravitational-wave signals produced by cosmic strings in the Advanced LIGO and Virgo full O3 dataset. Search results are presented for gravitational waves produced by cosmic string loop features such as cusps, kinks, and, for the first time, kink-kink collisions. A template-based search for short-duration transient signals does not yield a detection. We also use the stochastic gravitational-wave background energy density upper limits derived from the O3 data to constrain the cosmic string tension Gμ as a function of the number of kinks, or the number of cusps, for two cosmic string loop distribution models. Additionally, we develop and test a third model that interpolates between these two models. Our results improve upon the previous LIGO-Virgo constraints on Gμ by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude depending on the model that is tested. In particular, for the one-loop distribution model, we set the most competitive constraints to date: Gμ≲4×10^{-15}. In the case of cosmic strings formed at the end of inflation in the context of grand unified theories, these results challenge simple inflationary models.

Frozen Autoclaved Sorghum Enhanced Colonic Fermentation and Lower Visceral Fat Accumulation in Rats

As raw sorghum is not able to influence considerable colonic fermentation despite its higher resistant starch (RS) content, our study aimed to investigate the effects of frozen autoclaved sorghum on colonic fermentation. Fischer 344 rats were fed frozen cooked refined (S-Rf) and whole (S-Wh) sorghum diets and were compared against α-corn starch (CON) and high amylose starch (HAS) fed rats for zoometric parameters, cecal biochemical and microbiological parameters. Sorghum fed rats exhibited significantly lower feed intake and visceral adipose tissue mass compared to CON. Bacterial alpha diversity was significantly higher in the sorghum fed rats compared to HAS and the two sorghum fed groups clustered together, separately from HAS and CON in the beta diversity plot. Serum non-High Density Lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol in S-Rf group were significantly lower compared to CON, while total fecal bile excretion was also significantly higher in the two sorghum fed groups. Lower visceral adiposity was correlated with lower feed intake, RS content ingested and cecal short chain fatty acid (SCFA) contents. Thus, higher RS inflow to the colon via frozen autoclaved sorghum might have influenced colonic fermentation of RS and the resultant SCFA might have influenced lower adiposity as manifested by the lower body weight gain.

In vitro fermentation potential of the residue of Korean red ginseng root in a mixed culture of swine faecal bacteria

Agricultural by-products such as the ginseng residue contain dietary fibre. This study was aimed at investigating the intestinal fermentation potential of the residue of Korean red ginseng root using an in vitro simulator of the colon using swine fecal bacteria. pH-Controlled glass fermentors were used to conduct a small scale in vitro batch fermentation under anaerobic conditions for 48 h. One of the following substrates was included in each fermentor: commercial cellulose (CEL), xylooligosaccharide (XOS), and crude ginseng-insoluble fibre (CGF). The pH was lower (p < 0.05) and the production of total short chain fatty acid was increased (p < 0.05) in the XOS and CGF groups compared with the CEL group after 6 h of incubation. The α-diversity analysis of the microbial community at 48 h showed that the number of bacterial species was (p < 0.05) reduced in the XOS and CGF groups compared with that in the CEL group. β-Diversity of the microbial population at 48 h showed that all groups were clustered differently. The relative abundance of Bifidobacterium and Prevotella in the CGF group were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those in the CEL and XOS groups. Ammonia nitrogen production in the XOS and CGF groups was (p < 0.05) lower after 6 h of incubation, and skatole production in the CGF group was (p < 0.05) lower at 48 h than that in the CEL group. These results suggested that the ginseng residue might be fermentable in the large intestine and thus would promote the maintenance of a healthy colonic environment in the host.

Epidemiology of long-stay patients in the pediatric intensive care unit: prevalence, characteristics, resource consumption and complications

Background

The impact of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) utilization and resource consumption among long-stay patients has not been characterized recently. This study aimed to describe the resource consumption and characteristics of long-stay patients in a PICU.

Methods

This was a single-center descriptive cohort study of 1309 patients admitted to a PICU in 2017. The main outcome was ICU length of stay (LOS). Patients were divided into prolonged LOS (PLS) and non-PLS groups if they had an LOS of ≥ 28 or < 28 days, respectively. Two groups were compared to characterize PLS.

Results

Thirty-two (2.4%) patients had a PLS and utilized 33% of PICU bed days. Factors associated with PLS with odds ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)] were being a neonate (7.8 [2.5-25.4], p = <0.001), being an infant (2.9 [1.0-9.0], p = 0.04), admission for a respiratory ailment (7.3 [1.6-44.2], p = 0.003), cardiovascular dysfunction (24.1 [4.8-152.1], p = <0.001), post-cardiac operation (8.0 [1.7-50.1], p = 0.003), post-cardiopulmonary arrest (22.8 [1.7-211.9], p = 0.01), and transfer from another facility (4.2 [1.8-10.7], p = 0.001). PLS patients developed more nosocomial infections and disproportionately received monitoring and therapeutic resources.

Conclusions

A PLS was associated with substantial PICU utilization and complication rates. Future studies should aim to alleviate both institutional and patient-related issues in the affected population harboring possible risk factors for PLS.

In Vivo Colonic Fermentation of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.): Important Correlations Observed among the Physiological Parameters of Cecum, Liver, Adipose Tissue and Fasting Serum Lipid Profile

High amylose corn starch (HAS), whole grain sorghum (S-Wh), refined sorghum (S-Rf) and α-corn starch (CON) diets were fed to animals for 1 mo aiming to examine the physiological effects of resistant starch inclusion in the diet from grains. HAS exhibited significantly lower feed intake, final body weight, serum lipid profile with significantly higher cecal parameters and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) contents. S-Wh group exhibited significantly higher body weight, feed intake and serum lipid parameters compared to other 3 groups. Cecal fermentation was not seemed to be prominent in the CON, S-Wh and S-Rf groups with respect to lower cecal parameters and SCFA contents. The cecal microbial compositions in HAS, S-Wh and CON/S-Rf exhibited 3 distinct clusters suggesting a significant effect of the cecal microbial composition on cecal parameters, SCFA contents and physiological parameters.

Effects of Raw Potato Starch with High Resistant Starch Levels on Cecal Fermentation Properties in Rats

The effects of potato starch, isolated from Snowden (SD) and Kitahime (KH) varieties, on cecal fermatation properties in rats were evaluated. In high-amylose cornstarch (HAS), SD and KH groups, cecal acetate and total short-chain fatty acid concentrations were increased and cecal pH was lowered compared to control (CON) group. Further, cecal immunoglobulin A levels were increased and cecal ammonia-nitrogen, p-cresol, skatole and indole concentrations were lowered in HAS, SD and KH groups compared to the CON group. Therefore, potato starch might possess beneficial intestinal fermentation properties.

Effects of Sake lees (Sake-kasu) supplementation on the quality characteristics of fermented dry sausages

Sake lees (Sake-kasu) are the sediments of Japanese sake brewing process from fermented rice with Aspergillus oryzae and yeasts. Sake lees contain various enzymes and metabolites derived from the Sake starter culture, and expected to add aroma, flavor and softness to sausages. We investigated the effects of Sake lees supplementation on fermented dry sausage characteristics over an aging period of 35 days. Sake lees supplementation significantly accelerated sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar protein decomposition and increased peptide and free amino acid content compared to untreated sausage meat. Sake lees significantly acidified the sausages, enhanced their sour taste, and influenced their acceptability. Sake lees supplementation also significantly improved the hardness of the final product and conferred a preferable flavor to it. These results suggest that the various enzymes and compounds in Sake lees improve the flavor and texture of fermented dry sausages.

Prospects for observing and localizing gravitational-wave transients with Advanced LIGO, Advanced Virgo and KAGRA

We present our current best estimate of the plausible observing scenarios for the Advanced LIGO, Advanced Virgo and KAGRA gravitational-wave detectors over the next several years, with the intention of providing information to facilitate planning for multi-messenger astronomy with gravitational waves. We estimate the sensitivity of the network to transient gravitational-wave signals for the third (O3), fourth (O4) and fifth observing (O5) runs, including the planned upgrades of the Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo detectors. We study the capability of the network to determine the sky location of the source for gravitational-wave signals from the inspiral of binary systems of compact objects, that is binary neutron star, neutron star-black hole, and binary black hole systems. The ability to localize the sources is given as a sky-area probability, luminosity distance, and comoving volume. The median sky localization area (90% credible region) is expected to be a few hundreds of square degrees for all types of binary systems during O3 with the Advanced LIGO and Virgo (HLV) network. The median sky localization area will improve to a few tens of square degrees during O4 with the Advanced LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA (HLVK) network. During O3, the median localization volume (90% credible region) is expected to be on the order of 10 5 , 10 6 , 10 7 Mpc 3 for binary neutron star, neutron star-black hole, and binary black hole systems, respectively. The localization volume in O4 is expected to be about a factor two smaller than in O3. We predict a detection count of 1 - 1 + 12 ( 10 - 10 + 52 ) for binary neutron star mergers, of 0 - 0 + 19 ( 1 - 1 + 91 ) for neutron star-black hole mergers, and 17 - 11 + 22 ( 79 - 44 + 89 ) for binary black hole mergers in a one-calendar-year observing run of the HLV network during O3 (HLVK network during O4). We evaluate sensitivity and localization expectations for unmodeled signal searches, including the search for intermediate mass black hole binary mergers.

Mucin O-glycans facilitate symbiosynthesis to maintain gut immune homeostasis

Background

The dysbiosis of gut microbiota has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases; however, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Heavily glycosylated mucin establishes a first-line barrier against pathogens and serves as a niche for microbial growth.

Methods

To elucidate relationships among dysbiosis, abnormal mucin utilisation, and microbial metabolic dysfunction, we analysed short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and mucin components in stool samples of 40 healthy subjects, 49 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, and 44 Crohn's disease (CD) patients from Japan.

Findings

Levels of n-butyrate were significantly lower in stools of both CD and UC patients than in stools of healthy subjects. Correlation analysis identified seven bacterial species positively correlated with n-butyrate levels; the major n-butyrate producer, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, was particularly underrepresented in CD patients, but not in UC patients. In UC patients, there were inverse correlations between mucin O-glycan levels and the production of SCFAs, such as n-butyrate, suggesting that mucin O-glycans serve as an endogenous fermentation substrate for n-butyrate production. Indeed, mucin-fed rodents exhibited enhanced n-butyrate production, leading to the expansion of RORgt⁺Treg cells and IgA-producing cells in colonic lamina propria. Microbial utilisation of mucin-associated O-glycans was significantly reduced in n-butyrate-deficient UC patients.

Interpretation

Mucin O-glycans facilitate symbiosynthesis of n-butyrate by gut microbiota. Abnormal mucin utilisation may lead to reduced n-butyrate production in UC patients.

Fund

Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Health Labour Sciences Research Grant, AMED-Crest, AMED, Yakult Foundation, Keio Gijuku Academic Development Funds, The Aashi Grass Foundation, and The Canon Foundation.

Ultrastructural changes in colonic epithelial cells in a rat model of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a global, chronic intractable disease. The functions of drugs and food components have been evaluated in models of IBD induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Here, we used transmission (TEM) and osmium-maceration scanning (SEM) electron microscopy to evaluate the ultrastructure of colonic epithelial cells in rat models of IBD induced by TNBS. Histological evaluation revealed that the intestinal crypts in the most regions of the IBD-model colons were deformed and we classified them as having high cell migration rates (HMIG). The remaining regions in the intestinal crypts retained a relatively normal structure and we classified them as having low cell migration rates (LMIG). Osmium-maceration SEM revealed the mucosal fluid flowing in spaces without secretory granules in crypt goblet cells of both HMIG and LMIG regions, indicating the depletion of goblet cell mucin that is found in patients with IBD. The Golgi apparatus in absorptive cells was stacked and curled in both regions. Osmium-maceration SEM showed membrane network structures resembling endoplasmic reticulum that were large and expanded in absorptive cells with HMIG rather than with LMIG regions in IBD-model colons. These findings indicated that endoplasmic reticulum stress is associated with susceptibility to IBD and that the effects of various agents can be evaluated according to endoplasmic reticulum stress revealed by using electron microscopy in models of IBD induced by TNBS.

Effect of a combination of inulin and polyphenol-containing adzuki bean extract on intestinal fermentation in vitro and in vivo

The effect of a combination of inulin (INU) and polyphenol-containing adzuki bean extract (AE) on intestinal fermentation was examined in vitro using fermenters for 48 h and in vivo using rats for 28 d. The total short-chain fatty acid concentrations in the fermenters were decreased by a combination of INU and AE, but the concentration in the INU + AE group was higher than the cellulose (CEL) and CEL + AE groups. The cecal propionate concentration was increased by a combination of INU and AE compared with their single supplement. The ammonia-nitrogen concentration in the fermenters and rat cecum was decreased by INU and AE. Cecal mucin levels were increased by INU and AE respectively. Therefore, our observations suggested that the combination of INU and AE might be a material of functional food that includes several healthy effects through intestinal fermentation.

Clinical Significance of Urinary N1,N12-Diacetylspermine Levels in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background/aim

N1,N12-diacetylspermine (DiAcSpm), a diacetylpolyamine which was recently identified in urine, appeared to be a useful tumor marker for urogenital cancers. Here we examined the clinical significance of urinary DiAcSpm as a tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Urine samples were collected from patients with HCC and benign liver diseases. Urinary levels of DiAcSpm were measured by ELISA, which was newly developed in order to analyze large numbers of samples.

Results

The appropriate threshold value was set at 325 nM/g·creatinine. The sensitivity of the DiAcSpm assay for HCC was 65.5% and the specificity calculated between HCC and liver cirrhosis was 76.0%. The percentage of DiAcSpm-positive HCC patients was similar to that for AFP or PIVKA-II. At more advanced clinical stages, the positive percentage of these three markers increased but the DiAcSpm levels appeared to move independently of AFP and PIVKA-II. In HCC patients, the DiAcSpm levels reflected the progression of disease or the effect of treatment.

Conclusions

DiAcSpm levels were found to reflect the severity, activity or viability of HCC. Urinary DiAcSpm can therefore be considered one of the useful indexes for patients with HCC.

Dietary fat content modulates the hypolipidemic effect of dietary inulin in rats

SCOPE

Dietary fat content (low versus high fat) may modulate the serum lipid-lowering effect of high-performance (HP)-inulin. This study investigated the effect of dietary HP-inulin on metabolism in rats fed a low- or high-fat diet.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Rats were fed a diet of 5% fat with 5% cellulose or 5% HP-inulin (average degree of polymerization = 24) (low-fat diet) or of 20% fat with 5% cellulose or 5% HP-inulin (high-fat diet) for 28 days. Total, HDL, and non-HDL cholesterols, and triglyceride concentrations in the serum were measured along with total lipid content of liver and feces. Hepatic triglyceride and cholesterol, and fecal neutral and acidic sterol concentrations in total lipid were assessed. In addition, cecum SCFA levels and bacterial profiles were determined. The hypolipidemic effect of HP-inulin differed depending on dietary fat content (5% versus 20%). Specifically, 5% inulin instead of cellulose in a semi-purified diet significantly reduced serum lipid levels in rats fed a high-fat diet, which was strongly associated with increased total lipid and neutral sterol excretion.

CONCLUSION

Dietary fat content modulates the hypolipidemic effect of dietary inulin.

Potato powders prepared by successive cooking-process depending on resistant starch content affect the intestinal fermentation in rats

The effects of resistant starch (RS) in dry potato powders prepared by various processes on intestinal fermentation in rats were assessed. Rats were fed raw potato powder (RP), blanched potato powder (BP), steamed potato powder (SP), or drum-dried potato powder (DP) for 4 weeks. The cecal RS content was significantly higher in the RP group than in the control diet (CN) group and other dry potato powder groups. Cecum pH was significantly lower in the RP group compared to the CN group, and was also significantly lower than that in the SP, BP, and DP groups. Lactic acid bacteria levels in the RP group were significantly higher than those in the CN group, and levels in the SP group also increased relative to the control group. Lactobacillus levels in the RP group were higher than in the CN and other dry potato powder groups. Cecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations in the RP group followed by the SP group exhibited significantly higher levels relative to the control levels. Dry potato powders containing RS produced during the cooking process may represent a useful food material that increases intestinal concentrations of SCFA and enhances the growth of certain lactic acid bacteria.

Spent turmeric reduces fat mass in rats fed a high-fat diet

Indigestible carbohydrates may improve obesity. Spent turmeric contains high levels of dietary fibre and resistant starch (RS), which have fermentation potential in vitro. We hypothesised that indigestible carbohydrates in spent turmeric might prevent obesity development. In the first study, rats were administered 10% turmeric powder (TP) or spent turmeric powder (STP) in a high-fat (HF) diet for 28 d. In the second study, rats were fed 10% STP in a HF diet with or without antibiotics for 15 d. In the third study, rats were treated with a STP-containing suspension. In study 1, the TP and STP diet increased the caecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content compared to that of a control diet. The lower energy intake in the TP and STP group was strongly related to the decrease in visceral fat weight. In study 2, after caecal fermentation suppression with antibiotics, STP treatment decreased the visceral fat mass. In study 3, the plasma glucose levels and incremental area under the curve (AUC) after ingestion of a STP-containing suspension were lower than those after ingestion of suspension alone. These findings suggest the reduction of carbohydrate absorption during the gastrointestinal passage after TP and STP treatment. Our data indicate that the reduced obesity development in rats fed a HF diet may be attributed to the low metabolisable energy density of carbohydrates in the spent turmeric, independent of SCFA-mediated factors.

Comparison of the effect of two types of whole mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) powders on intestinal fermentation in rats

The effects of two types of mushroom (Agaricus bisporus; white, WM; brown, BM) powders on intestinal fermentation in rats were investigated in terms of the physical characteristics of animals and by bacterial and HPLC analyses of cecal contents. Short-chain fatty acid levels were found to be significantly higher in the WM group than in the BM and the control (CN) groups; coliform bacteria levels in the BM group were significantly lower than those in the CN group, with the WM group inducing an apparent but insignificant decrease in coliforms. Anaerobe levels in the WM group were significantly higher than those in the CN group and, compared with the CN group, the BM and WM groups exhibited significantly increased feces weight and cecum weight, respectively. These results indicate that the mushroom powders, and in particular the WM powder, have beneficial effects on the intestinal environment in rats.

Specific clinical signs and symptoms are predictive of clinical course in sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Background and purpose

Akinetic mutism is thought to be an appropriate therapeutic end‐point in patients with sporadic Creutzfeldt−Jakob disease (sCJD). However, prognostic factors for akinetic mutism are unclear and clinical signs or symptoms that precede this condition have not been defined. The goal of this study was to identify prognostic factors for akinetic mutism and to clarify the order of clinical sign and symptom development prior to its onset.

Methods

The cumulative incidence of akinetic mutism and other clinical signs and symptoms was estimated based on Japanese CJD surveillance data (455 cases) collected from 2003 to 2008. A proportional hazards model was used to identify prognostic factors for the time to onset of akinetic mutism and other clinical signs and symptoms.

Results

Periodic synchronous discharges on electroencephalography were present in the majority of cases (93.5%). The presence of psychiatric symptoms or cerebellar disturbance at sCJD diagnosis was associated with the development of akinetic mutism [hazard ratio (HR) 1.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14–1.99, and HR 2.15, 95% CI1.61–2.87, respectively]. The clinical course from cerebellar disturbance to myoclonus or akinetic mutism was classified into three types: (i) direct path, (ii) path via pyramidal or extrapyramidal dysfunction and (iii) path via psychiatric symptoms or visual disturbance.

Conclusions

The presence of psychiatric symptoms or cerebellar disturbance increased the risk of akinetic mutism of sCJD cases with probable MM/MV subtypes. Also, there appear to be sequential associations in the development of certain clinical signs and symptoms of this disease.

Relationships among alcoholic liver disease, antioxidants, and antioxidant enzymes

Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages is a serious cause of liver disease worldwide. The metabolism of ethanol generates reactive oxygen species, which play a significant role in the deterioration of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Antioxidant phytochemicals, such as polyphenols, regulate the expression of ALD-associated proteins and peptides, namely, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. These plant antioxidants have electrophilic activity and may induce antioxidant enzymes via the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1-NF-E2-related factor-2 pathway and antioxidant responsive elements. Furthermore, these antioxidants are reported to alleviate cell injury caused by oxidants or inflammatory cytokines. These phenomena are likely induced via the regulation of mitogen-activating protein kinase (MAPK) pathways by plant antioxidants, similar to preconditioning in ischemia-reperfusion models. Although the relationship between plant antioxidants and ALD has not been adequately investigated, plant antioxidants may be preventive for ALD because of their electrophilic and regulatory activities in the MAPK pathway.

Sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, increases the number of circulating CD34⁺CXCR4⁺ cells in patients with type 2 diabetes

We investigated the effects of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibitor, on the number of circulating CD34(+)CXCR4(+)cells, a candidate for endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), plasma levels of stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1α, a ligand for CXCR4 receptor and a substrate for DPP-4, and plasma levels of interferon-inducible protein (IP)-10, for a substrate for DPP-4, in patients with type 2 diabetes. We studied 30 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes who had poor glycemic control despite treatment with metformin and/or sulfonylurea. Thirty diabetic patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio into a sitagliptin (50 mg/day) treatment group or an active placebo group (glimepiride 1 mg/day) for 12 weeks. Both groups showed similar improvements in glycemic control. The number of circulating CD34(+)CXCR4(+) cells was increased from 30.5 (20.0, 47.0)/10(6) cells at baseline to 55.5 (31.5, 80.5)/10(6) cells at 12 weeks of treatment with 50 mg/day sitagliptin (P = 0.0014), while showing no significant changes in patients treated with glimepiride. Plasma levels of SDF-1α and IP-10, both physiological substrates of endogenous DPP-4 and chemokines, were significantly decreased at 12 weeks of sitagliptin treatment. In conclusion, treatment with sitagliptin increased the number of circulating CD34(+)CXCR4(+) cells by approximately 2-fold in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Plasma insulin-like peptide 3 concentrations are acutely regulated by luteinizing hormone in pubertal Japanese Black beef bulls

Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a major secretory product of testicular Leydig cells. The mechanism of acute regulation of INSL3 secretion is still unknown. The present study was undertaken in pubertal beef bulls to (1) determine the temporal relationship of pulsatile secretion among LH, INSL3, and testosterone and (2) monitor acute regulation of INSL3 secretion by LH using GnRH analogue and hCG. Blood samples were collected from Japanese Black beef bulls (N = 6) at 15-minute intervals for 8 hours. Moreover, blood samples were collected at -0.5, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 hours after GnRH treatment and -0.5, 0, 2, 4, and 8 hours on the day of treatment (Day 0), and Days 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 after hCG treatment. Concentrations of LH, INSL3, and testosterone determined by EIAs indicated that secretion in the general circulation was pulsatile. The frequency of LH, INSL3, and testosterone pulses was 4.7 ± 0.9, 3.8 ± 0.2, and 1.0 ± 0.0, respectively, during the 8-hour period. Seventy percent of these INSL3 pulses peaked within 1 hour after a peak of an LH pulse had occurred. The mean increase (peak per basal concentration) of testosterone pulses was higher (P < 0.001) than that of INSL3 pulses. After GnRH treatment, LH concentrations increased (P < 0.01) dramatically 1 hour after treatment and remained high (P < 0.05) until the end of sampling, whereas an elevated (P < 0.05) INSL3 concentration occurred at 1, 2, 5, and 6 hours after treatment. Testosterone concentrations increased (P < 0.01) 1 hour after the treatment and remained high until the end of sampling. After hCG treatment, an increase of INSL3 concentration occurred at 2 and 4 hours, and Days 2, 4, and 8 after treatment (P < 0.05), whereas in case of testosterone, concentrations remained high (P < 0.01) until Day 8 after treatment. The increase (maximum per pretreatment concentration) of INSL3 concentrations after injecting GnRH or hCG was much lower (P < 0.001) than that of testosterone. In conclusion, secretion of INSL3 in blood of bulls occurred in a pulsatile manner. We inferred an acute regulation of INSL3 by LH in bulls because INSL3 concentrations increased immediately after endogenous and exogenous LH stimulation. The increase of INSL3 concentrations by LH was much lower than that of testosterone in bulls.