Sex differences and sex-specific regulation of motivated behavior by Melanin-concentrating hormone: a short review

Recent preclinical research exploring how neuropeptide transmitter systems regulate motivated behavior reveal the increasing importance of sex as a critical biological variable. Neuropeptide systems and their central circuits both contribute to sex differences in a range of motivated behaviors and regulate sex-specific behaviors. In this short review, we explore the current research of how sex as a biological variable influences several distinct motivated behaviors that are modulated by the melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) neuropeptide system. First, we review how MCH regulates feeding behavior within the context of energy homeostasis differently between male and female rodents. Then, we focus on MCH's role in lactation as a sex-specific process within the context of energy homeostasis. Next, we discuss the sex-specific effects of MCH on maternal behavior. Finally, we summarize the role of MCH in drug-motivated behaviors. While these topics are traditionally investigated from different scientific perspectives, in this short review we discuss how these behaviors share commonalities within the larger context of motivated behaviors, and that sex differences discovered in one area of research may impact our understanding in another. Overall, our review highlights the need for further research into how sex differences in energy regulation associated with reproduction and parental care contribute to regulating motivated behaviors.

Do domestic budgerigars perceive predation risk?

Predation risk may affect the foraging behavior of birds. However, there has been little research on the ability of domestic birds to perceive predation risk and thus adjust their feeding behavior. In this study, we tested whether domestic budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) perceived predation risk after the presentation of specimens and sounds of sparrowhawks (Accipiter nisus), domestic cats (Felis catus), and humans, and whether this in turn influenced their feeding behavior. When exposed to visual or acoustic stimuli, budgerigars showed significantly longer latency to feed under sparrowhawk, domestic cat, and human treatments than with controls. Budgerigars responded more strongly to acoustic stimuli than visual stimuli, and they showed the longest latency to feed and the least number of feeding times in response to sparrowhawk calls. Moreover, budgerigars showed shorter latency to feed and greater numbers of feeding times in response to human voices than to sparrowhawk or domestic cat calls. Our results suggest that domestic budgerigars may identify predation risk through visual or acoustic signals and adjust their feeding behavior accordingly.

Identification of genes related to growth from transcriptome profiles of the muscle and liver of Chinese longsnout catfish (Leiocassis longirostris)

The Chinese longsnout catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) is a commercially important freshwater fish species in China. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying its growth, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of muscle and liver tissues of fast- and slow-growing L. longirostris. A total of 580 and 511 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained in the muscle and liver tissues, respectively. We selected 10 DEGs each from muscle and liver tissues by qRT-PCR to verify the reliability of RNA-seq, and it was found that the expression patterns of these genes were consistent with RNA-seq analysis results. According to the differential expression and functional enrichment analysis of genes, we found differences in the expression of several growth-related genes between fast- and slow-growing individuals. These genes may contribute to the differences in the growth of L. longirostris by influencing muscle growth and the metabolism of substances and energy. In particular, the pk and fabp genes were highly expressed in fast-growing individuals, while the cart, leptin, pepck, murf1, trim32, and pparα genes exhibited higher levels in slow-growing individuals. It was speculated that genes related to feeding behavior might be the key genes in regulating the growth of L. longirostris, while glycolytic/gluconeogenic metabolic pathway, lipid metabolism, and ubiquitin-proteasome pathway might be the main pathways involved in regulating body weight of L. longirostris. This study could enrich the available gene resources and provide a valuable basis for further studies on the regulatory mechanisms of growth in L. longirostris.

Feeding responses of reef-building corals provide species- and concentration-dependent risk assessment of microplastic

The negative impacts of microplastic on reef-building corals are often attributed to the feeding responses to these particles. Although reactions to and ingestion of microplastic are frequently reported, a quantitative comparison to natural particles and of the factors influencing these responses is largely missing. Thus, this study aims to compare the feeding rates of corals to microplastic and natural particles, considering factors influencing these responses. Specifically, we I) studied the feeding responses of corals to microplastic, natural food, and non-food particles, II) examined the influence of biotic factors (i.e., biofilm on the particles and presence of natural food), III) evaluated species-specific differences in feeding responses to microplastic particles, and IV) applied a toxicodynamic model for species- and concentration-dependent risk assessments. We assessed the feeding responses of 11 coral species, spanning different life-history strategies and growth forms in experimental feeding trials. The results showed that the feeding responses of corals to microplastic differ from those to naturally occurring particles. Reactions to microplastic and natural food occurred equally often, while sand was more frequently rejected. Yet, the ingestion process was much more selective, and microplastic was ingested less frequently than natural food. The presence of a biofilm and natural food had activating effects on the feeding behavior of the corals on microplastic. Generally, coral species that exhibit a higher degree of heterotrophic feeding also reacted more often to microplastic. The species- and concentration-dependent toxicodynamic risk model built on these data reveals that most tested coral species are unlikely to be at risk under present environmental concentration levels. However, highly heterotrophic feeders, such as Blastomussa merleti, or generally vulnerable species, such as Pocillopora verrucosa, need special consideration. These findings help to better evaluate the responses of corals to microplastic and their risk in an increasingly polluted ocean.

Adequate nutrient intake mitigate the toxic effects of bromate on the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus

Bromate is receiving increased attention as a typical disinfection by-product in aquatic environments, but bromate toxicity tests on invertebrate such as Brachionus calyciflorus rotifer are inadequate. In the present study, the long-term toxicity tests on B. calyciflorus were performed during 21 days under the exposure of different bromate concentrations and two algal density conditions. Furthermore, we evaluated the feeding behaviors of the rotifers under the impact of bromate. The maximum population density of rotifers was significantly reduced at 100 and 200 mg/L bromate exposure at the two algal density conditions. However, we observed that the maximum population density and population growth rate of rotifers were higher at 3.0 × 106 cells/mL algal density than those at 1.0 × 106 cells/mL under the same conditions of bromate exposure. These results suggest that higher food density may have alleviated the negative effects of bromate on rotifers. Meanwhile, the ingestion rate at an algal density of 3.0 × 106 cells/mL was higher than that at 1.0 × 106 cells/mL. The present study provides a basic reference to comprehensively evaluate the toxic effects of bromate on aquatic organisms.

Dietary habits and physical activity during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: associated factors, composite outcomes in a cross-sectional telephone survey of a Chinese population, and trend analysis

INTRODUCTION

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created many challenges for Hong Kong residents attempting to maintain healthy lifestyle habits. This study aimed to measure the prevalences of unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity levels in Hong Kong Chinese, identify associated factors, and conduct a time trend analysis during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted in Hong Kong by simple random sampling. The survey comprised socio-demographic characteristics, clinical information, the Hong Kong Diet Score (HKDS), smoking and alcohol consumption, and a Chinese version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form. The composite outcome was low HKDS, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. We used 14 Health Behaviour Survey reports from 2003 to 2019 to establish a trend analysis regarding fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity level, smoking, and alcohol consumption.

RESULTS

We performed 1500 complete telephone surveys with a response rate of 58.8%. Most participants were older adults (≥65 years, 66.7%), women (65.6%), and married (77.9%). The HKDS was significantly lower in men, single individuals, low-income participants, alcohol drinkers, and patients with diabetes mellitus or renal disease. Participants who were single, undergoing long-term management of medical diseases, or had diabetes or renal diseases exhibited greater likelihood of physical inactivity.

CONCLUSION

Prevalences of unhealthy lifestyle habits were high among men, single individuals, and chronic disease patients during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong. The adoption of physical activity habits tended to decrease in the past two decades.

Dietary patterns and biochemical markers related to diabetes mellitus: an association analysis based on data from the Study of Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescents (ERICA)

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between dietary patterns and biochemical markers related to diabetes mellitus (DM): glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index from 35 454 Brazilian adolescents 12 to 17 y of age.

METHODS

Dietary patterns were derived using factor analysis by the principal components method. The data originated from the school-based study ERICA (Study of Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescents) carried out between 2013 and 2014. Linear regression models analyzed the associations.

RESULTS

Three dietary patterns were found: traditional Brazilian, bread and coffee, and Western. An inverse association was found in young girls between the traditional Brazilian pattern and fasting glucose (β = -0.76; P = 0.005) and HbA1c in the second and third tertiles (β = -0.04; P = 0.002; β = -0 .06; P < 0.001), and the Western pattern with HbA1c (β = -0.02; P = 0.035). In boys, a positive association was found between the second tertile of the dietary pattern and insulin (β = 0.48; P = 0.009) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (β = 0.11; P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that the traditional Brazilian pattern was inversely associated with blood glucose and HbA1c values in girls. Furthermore, the data suggest that there is an important difference between boys and girls in the association of dietary patterns and the markers used.

Depraved appetite in dromedary camels: Clinical, ultrasonographic, and postmortem findings

Background

Camels are subjected to a wide variety of nutritional deficiencies as they are largely dependent upon grazing desert plants. As a consequence, the syndrome of pica or depraved appetite is occasionally seen in dromedary camels. The condition is manifested as chewing or eating abnormal things such as wood, dirt, bones, stones, clothes, plastics, mud, sand, or other inanimate objects.

Aim

This study was designed to investigate the clinical, ultrasonographic, and postmortem findings in dromedary camels with pica or depraved appetite.

Methods

Twenty-five camels of 5 days to 15 years were examined. Owner complaints included depraved appetite, loss of body condition, regurgitation of stomach content, and partial or complete absence of feces. Symptoms described were present for a period varying between 3 days, up to 12 months. The stomach compartments and small and large intestines were scanned using ultrasonography from the right and left sides of the abdomen. Necropsy was carried out on six female and three male camels where the thoracic and abdominal organs were examined with special attention to the digestive system.

Results

The affected animals had a history of gradual loss of body conditions, eating foreign objects, decreased or total absence of feces, and regurgitation of stomach content. Using ultrasound, the foreign body was imaged occluding completely or partially the intestines. Foreign bodies within the rumen could not be visualized with ultrasound. In cases where the rumen is impacted by sand, small pin-points revealing acoustic enhancement were imaged. Foreign bodies were removed from the rumen at exploratory rumenotomy (n = 11), laparotomy (n = 3), or at necropsy (n = 8) in the form of plastics, cloths, sand, mud, wool balls, robes, glasses, or even metallic objects which may be blunt or sharp. Sixteen (64%) of the camels were recovered while the remaining 9 (36%) did not survive.

Conclusion

The syndrome of pica or depraved appetite is an important condition in dromedary resulting in the ingestion of objects other than normal feed. Substantial economic losses are expected as a result of this syndrome. Ultrasonography of the digestive system may help the clinician in some cases to localize of occluding foreign bodies in the intestines, while in the transabdominal scanning of the stomach is valuable only in cases of sand impaction.

Involvement of a silkworm D2-like dopamine receptor in the promotion of feeding and related behaviors

The biogenic amine dopamine (DA) regulates various physiological and behavioral processes in insects through binding with specific receptors. Three types of typical receptors are known to date. Previously, we achieved functional and pharmacological characterization of the three DA receptors in the silkworm Bombyx mori (BmDopR1-3). BmDopR1 and BmDopR2 are functionally classified as D1-like DA receptors, and BmDopR3 as D2-like. The present pharmacological data and our previous studies suggested that bromocriptine (Bro), which acts as an agonist on the DA D2 receptors and also interacts with various serotonin and adrenergic receptors in vertebrates, is an agonist that also acts specifically on BmDopR3, with little effect on BmDopR1 and BmDopR2 in silkworms. Exploiting this subtype specificity of Bro, to offer clues on the involvement of DA and its receptors in silkworm feeding behavior, Bro was injected into fifth instar larvae and subsequent feeding and related behaviors (feeding amount, excretion amount, mandibular movement, and feeding behavior observation) were quantitatively evaluated. Bro injection increased feeding and excretion amounts but did not affect mandibular chewing speed. Visual observation of feeding behavior for 1 h revealed the prolongation of feeding and related moving time in Bro-injected larvae. Collectively, these results suggest that Bro directly acted on BmDopR3 as an agonist and promoted feeding and related behaviors in silkworm larvae.

Cross-examining the influence of upwelling and seaweed quality on herbivores' feeding behavior and growth

At the regional scale, upwelling conditions are known to influence ecosystems and communities and their primary and secondary productivity. However, the influence of upwelling on local herbivore-algae interactions is less well understood. We address this question by cross-examining herbivores and seaweeds from sites associated with upwelling and downwelling conditions along the Humboldt Current System. Specifically, we quantified the feeding and benefits attained by the black sea urchin (Tetrapygus niger) and the black sea snail (Tegula atra) while consuming a widespread kelp species (Lessonia spicata). We hypothesized that food quality drives herbivores' preference, consumption, and growth rates, regardless of the origin or "prior" conditions of the consumers. Laboratory trials measured algal consumption rates with (preference) and without a choice, and consumer's growth rates, to assess the influence of food quality (algae from upwelling vs downwelling sites) and the site of origin of the consumers. Our results showed that algal quality was a prevailing factor for both herbivores: they chose, consumed more, and grew faster on high quality (upwelling) algae. By comparison, the origin of the consumer was only significant for sea snails: those coming from an upwelling site, consumed significantly more and grew faster than those from downwelling. The bulk of our results provided strong support to our hypothesis and suggest that the high nutritional quality of algae associated with upwelling centers has a strong influence on consumers' preferences, consumption, and performance (growth). The fact that origin was found to be relevant for one of the herbivores suggests that the conditions in which species grow may dictate some of their efficiency as consumers.

Silencing the rhythm gene AgCLK-1 reduced feeding of Aphis gossypii

The cotton aphid Aphis gossypii Glover is an important cotton pest, and means of controlling this insect is a primary research focus. Although biological rhythm is an important mechanism that regulates numerous insect processes and activities, its role in cotton aphid has not been elucidated. In the present study, four highly-expressed circadian rhythm genes were selected from the cotton aphid genome database and their physicochemical properties and protein structures were analyzed. These genes were in the Takeout, Timeless, and Timeless interacting-related families, and the corresponding proteins contained highly-conserved Swis and TIMELESS domains. Gene expression analysis at multiple developmental stages revealed differing expression patterns between the four genes. AgCLK-1 had the highest relative expression of the four, especially during the nymph period. Silencing AgCLK-1 caused a significant refusal of the cotton aphids to feed at 1, 3, and 5 d of treatment. These results demonstrated that AgCLK-1 played a key role in regulating the feeding behavior of cotton aphid. This new functional understanding provides novel insights into cotton aphid biology and suggests new targeting strategies for agricultural pest control.

Probing behavior of the leafhopper analyzed through DC electropenetrography and microscopy

Yamatotettix flavovittatus Matsumara is a new leafhopper species vector of sugarcane white leaf (SCWL) phytoplasma that causes sugarcane chlorosis symptoms. The effects of probing behavior of Y. flavovittatus on sugarcane and its implication for SCWL phytoplasma transmission are yet to be studied. In this research, we used DC electropenetrography (EPG) to define waveforms produced by adult and fifth-instar nymphal Y. flavovittatus on sugarcane and correlated them with salivary sheath termini (likely stylet tip locations) via light and scanning electron microscopy. The following six waveforms and associated activities are described: (NP) non-probing, (Yf1) stylet probing into epidermal cells, (Yf2) stylet probing through mesophyll/parenchyma, (Yf3) stylet contact with phloem and likely watery salivation, (Yf4) active ingestion of sap from phloem, probably sieve elements, and (Yf5) unknown stylet activity in multiple cell types. Study findings reveal that the Y. flavovittatus vector ingests sieve tube element more frequently and for longer durations than any other cell type, supporting that Y. flavovittatus is primarily a phloem feeder. Adult Y. flavovittatus show a longer total probing duration and produces a high density of puncture holes on sugarcane leaves. Moreover, probing behaviors revealed that adults typically ingest phloem sap more frequently and for longer durations than fifth-instar nymphs, enhancing sap ingestion. Furthermore, we propose that adults are more likely to acquire (during Yf4) and inoculate (during Yf3) higher amounts of phytoplasma than fifth-instar nymphs. This information on the penetration behavior of leafhopper Y. flavovittatus serves as a basis for advanced studies on the transmission mechanism of SCWL phytoplasma.

Effects of dimpropyridaz on feeding behavior, locomotivity and biological parameters of Aphis gossypii

Aphis gossypii is a worldwide agricultural pest insect that has developed resistance to multiple pesticides. Dimpropyridaz is a new chordotonal organ regulator and has been registered for control of sap-sucking insects including A. gossypii. For the aim to effectively apply dimpropyridaz for A. gossypii control, it is necessary to clarify the toxic effects of dimpropyridaz on cotton aphids. In the present study, the effects of dimpropyridaz on feeding behavior, locomotivity and biological parameters of A. gossypii were investigated. The bioassay results showed that dimpropyridaz had good insecticidal activity against A. gossypii, with LC50 as 1.91 mg/L at 72 h post exposure. Moreover, the dimpropyridaz treated A. gossypii showed obvious poisoning symptoms of dehydration and shrivel. Through the gentle-touch experiment and feeding experiment, it was found that dimpropyridaz treatment had significant adverse impacts on the locomotivity and feeding behavior of A. gossypii. Compared with the control group, the coordinated movement ability of the treated A. gossypii attenuated, moreover the feeding behavior of A. gossypii was inhibited. The feeding rate decreased by 62.00%, 64.00% and 71.67% after treatment with 50.33 mg/L dimpropyridaz for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h, respectively. Especially, EPG recordings showed that the number of intracellular stylet puncture and the total duration of phloem sap ingestion and concurrent salivation decreased substantially, while the total duration of non-probing increased after exposure to dimpropyridaz. Furthermore, the treatments with LC10 and LC30 of dimpropyridaz significantly reduced the longevity and fecundity of F0, and led to a decrease of the relative fitness of F0 to 0.48 and 0.32, respectively. The net reproductive rate (R0) and mean generation time (T) of F1 generation were also significantly reduced, moreover the duration of reproduction was significantly shortened. In addition, at 72 h post treatment with LC30 dimpropyridaz, the gene expression levels of JHEH and USP of cotton aphids significantly increased, while the expression of FOXO, INR, EcR and INRS decreased. These results provide basis for clarifying the toxicology of dimpropyridaz to cotton aphids, and also are beneficial for effective control of cotton aphid using dimpropyridaz.

The effects of eating frequency on changes in body composition and cardiometabolic health in adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Eating frequency may affect body weight and cardiometabolic health. Intervention trials and observational studies have both indicated that high- and low-frequency eating can be associated with better health outcomes. There are currently no guidelines to inform how to advise healthy adults about how frequently to consume food or beverages.

AIM

To establish whether restricted- (≤ three meals per day) frequency had a superior effect on markers of cardiometabolic health (primary outcome: weight change) compared to unrestricted-eating (≥ four meals per day) frequency in adults.

METHODS

We searched Medline (Ovid), Embase, CINAHL (EBSCO), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CAB Direct and Web of Science Core Collection electronic databases from inception to 7 June 2022 for clinical trials (randomised parallel or cross-over trials) reporting on the effect of high or low-frequency eating on cardiometabolic health (primary outcome: weight change). Trial interventions had to last for at least two weeks, and had to have been conducted in human adults. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.0. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for all outcomes. Certainty of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS

Seventeen reports covering 16 trials were included in the systematic review. Data from five trials were excluded from meta-analysis due to insufficient reporting. 15 of 16 trials were at high risk of bias. There was very low certainty evidence of no difference between high- and low-frequency eating for weight-change (MD: -0.62 kg, CI95: -2.76 to 1.52 kg, p = 0.57).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no discernible advantage to eating in a high- or low-frequency dietary pattern for cardiometabolic health. We cannot advocate for either restricted- or unrestricted eating frequency to change markers of cardiometabolic health in healthy young to middle-aged adults.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

CRD42019137938.

Dissection of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis neuronal subtypes in feeding regulation

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) plays an important role in feeding regulation through projections to other brain areas. However, whether functional distinctions exist within different BNST cells is not clear. Here, we found optogenetic activation of LH-projecting BNST neurons induced aversion and significantly reduced consumption of normal chow but not high-fat diets (HFD). In contrast, photoactivation of vlPAG-projecting BNST neurons induced place preference and promoted HFD intake, without affecting normal chow consumption. Moreover, optogenetic silencing of LH-projecting BNST neurons reduced the consumption of normal chow in fasted mice, while photoinhibition of vlPAG-projecting BNST neurons decreased the consumption of HFD in both fed and fasted mice. We then labeled the LH- and vlPAG-projecting BNST neurons using retroAAV-GFP and retroAAV-mCherry, respectively, and found these two populations of neurons have different anatomical distribution and electrophysiological properties. Taken together, we identified vlPAG-projecting and LH-projecting BNST neurons are two distinct populations of cells with significant differences in functional and anatomic characteristics.

Detoxified castor seed meal replaces soybean meal in the supplement for Holstein-Zebu crossbred steers finished on tropical pasture during the rainy season

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with detoxified castor seed meal (DCM) on the intake, digestibility, feeding behavior, and performance of pasture-finished (rainy season) steers supplemented with concentrate at 0.4% of their body weight. Forty ½ Holstein + ½ Zebu steers (initial weight: 283.3 ± 36.3 kg) were allocated to four treatments in a completely randomized experimental design. Treatments consisted of diets in which DCM replaced 0, 30, 60, and 90% of SBM in the supplement dry matter (DM). The steers were finished on an Urochloa brizantha pasture and the experiment lasted 112 days. Replacing SBM with DCM did not influence (P > 0.05) the intake or apparent digestibility of DM, crude protein, or neutral detergent insoluble fiber of the animals. Grazing time increased (P < 005), whereas the intake and rumination efficiencies of the steers did not change (P > 0.05) with the substitution. The replacement of SBM with DCM in the supplement fed to the steers also did not influence (P > 0.05) their final weight, average daily gain, or feed conversion (P > 0.05). We recommend replacing up to 90% (DM basis) of SBM with DCM in the concentrate supplement of steers grazing on Urochloa brizantha pasture during rainy season while supplemented with concentrate at 0.4% of their body weight.

A putative loop connection between VTA dopamine neurons and nucleus accumbens encodes positive valence to compensate for hunger

Dopamine (DA) signal play pivotal roles in regulating motivated behaviors, including feeding behavior, but the role of midbrain DA neurons in modulating food intake and neural circuitry mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we found that activating but not inhibiting ventral tegmental area (VTA) DA neurons reduces mouse food intake. Furthermore, DA neurons in ventral VTA, especially neurons projecting to the medial nucleus accumbens (NAc), are activated by refeeding in the 24 h fasted mice. Combing neural circuitry tracing, optogenetic, chemogenetic, and pharmacological manipulations, we established that the VTA→medial NAc→VTA loop circuit is critical for the VTA DA neurons activation-induced food intake reduction. Moreover, activating either VTA DA neurons or dopaminergic axons in medial NAc elevates positive valence, which will compensate for the hungry-induced food intake. Thus, our study identifies a subset of positive valence-encoded VTA DA neurons forming possible loop connections with medial NAc that are anorexigenic.

Dietary intake of pregnant women with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A case-control study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Findings on the role of diet in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) pathogenesis are inconsistent. There are few studies on the dietary habits of pregnant women with NAFLD. Our primary aim was to compare the dietary intakes of pregnant women with and without NAFLD.

METHODS

This case-control study recruited 60 women (26-34 weeks' gestation) with recently diagnosed gestational diabetes (GDM) before any treatment was implemented. At recruitment, all participants underwent B-mode hepatic ultrasound. We included 30 women with sonographic NAFLD (cases) and 30 women without NAFLD (controls) matched for age, skin color, and pre-pregnancy body mass index. We assessed participants' dietary intakes in the last six months using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Mann-Whitney´s test was used to compare differences in median macro and micronutrient intakes between cases and controls.

RESULTS

Total median daily energy (1965.1 × 1949.2 calories) and lipid (25.1% × 28.3%) intakes were similar in women with and without NAFLD and fell within recommended ranges. Participants with NAFLD reported significantly higher median daily intakes of carbohydrates (59.4% × 53.1% p = 0.003), and significantly lower protein (15.6% × 17.0% p = 0.005), fiber (10.7 × 13.3 g/day p = 0.010), and vitamin C (151.8 × 192.6 mg/day p = 0.008) intakes than those without NAFLD.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with NAFLD ingest more carbohydrates and less protein, fiber, and vitamin C than those without NAFLD. Our findings contribute to understanding the role of diet in the development of NAFLD in pregnant women.

Using neurons to maintain autonomy: Learning from C. elegans

Understanding how biological organisms are autonomous-maintain themselves far from equilibrium through their own activities-requires understanding how they regulate those activities. In multicellular animals, such control can be exercised either via endocrine signaling through the vasculature or via neurons. In C. elegans this control is exercised by a well-delineated relatively small but distributed nervous system that relies on both chemical and electric transmission of signals. This system provides resources to integrate information from multiple sources as needed to maintain the organism. Especially important for the exercise of neural control are neuromodulators, which we present as setting agendas for control through more traditional electrical signaling. To illustrate how the C. elegans nervous system integrates multiple sources of information in controlling activities important for autonomy, we focus on feeding behavior and responses to adverse conditions. We conclude by considering how a distributed nervous system without a centralized controller is nonetheless adequate for autonomy.

Genetic mapping of craniofacial traits in the Mexican tetra reveals loci associated with bite differences between cave and surface fish

BACKGROUND

The Mexican tetra, Astyanax mexicanus, includes interfertile surface-dwelling and cave-dwelling morphs, enabling powerful studies aimed at uncovering genes involved in the evolution of cave-associated traits. Compared to surface fish, cavefish harbor several extreme traits within their skull, such as a protruding lower jaw, a wider gape, and an increase in tooth number. These features are highly variable between individual cavefish and even across different cavefish populations.

RESULTS

To investigate these traits, we created a novel feeding behavior assay wherein bite impressions could be obtained. We determined that fish with an underbite leave larger bite impressions with an increase in the number of tooth marks. Capitalizing on the ability to produce hybrids from surface and cavefish crosses, we investigated genes underlying these segregating orofacial traits by performing Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) analysis with F2 hybrids. We discovered significant QTL for bite (underbite vs. overbite) that mapped to a single region of the Astyanax genome. Within this genomic region, multiple genes exhibit coding region mutations, some with known roles in bone development. Further, we determined that there is evidence that this genomic region is under natural selection.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights cavefish as a valuable genetic model for orofacial patterning and will provide insight into the genetic regulators of jaw and tooth development.

Infant feeding practices and autism spectrum disorder in US children aged 2-5 years: the national survey of children's health (NSCH) 2016-2020

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between infant feeding practices and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children aged 2-5 years in the United States (US).

METHODS

Data from the 2016-2020 National Survey of Children's Health, a nationally representative cross-sectional survey, were utilized for this study. Questionnaires were administered to parents of children aged 2-5 years to gather information on ASD diagnosis, infant feeding practices, and demographic factors (e.g., child sex, ethnic group, and maternal age at birth). Logistic regression with sample weights was employed to assess the association between infant feeding practices and ASD, while controlling for demographic variables. Polynomial regression models were used to examine trends in exclusive breastfeeding and ever breastfeeding rates among children with and without ASD.

RESULTS

A total of 35,050 children aged 2-5 years were analyzed, including 616 diagnosed with ASD, after excluding participants with missing information on breastfeeding and ASD diagnosis. Of these children with ASD, 76.6% (n = 472) had a breastfeeding history, with 67.5% (n = 416) engaged in partial breastfeeding and 9.1% (n = 56) exclusively breastfed. Adjusted odds ratios for each additional month of breastfeeding compared to never being breastfed were 0.98 (95% CI, 0.96-1.01). The adjusted odds ratios for breastfeeding durations of > 0-6 months, > 6-12 months, > 12-24 months, and > 24 months were 0.81 (95% CI, 0.50-1.31), 0.65 (95% CI, 0.36-1.18), 0.81 (95% CI, 0.44-1.49), and 0.48 (95% CI, 0.23-1.01), respectively. Compared to children who were never breastfed, the adjusted odds ratio for children who were ever breastfed was 0.74 (95% CI, 0.47-1.18). Among children with ASD, the proportion of ever breastfeeding declined from 82.0% in 2017 to 64.3% in 2020, while exclusive breastfeeding decreased from 12.0% in 2016 to 4.2% in 2020.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Although no significant association was found between infant feeding practices and ASD among US children aged 2-5 years, the rates of breastfeeding, particularly exclusive breastfeeding, were suboptimal among children with ASD. This highlights the need for specific policies and practices to promote and support breastfeeding among parents of children with ASD or those at high risk of having a child with ASD.

The influence of estrogen response element ERα signaling in the control of feeding behaviors in male and female mice

Circulating 17β-estradiol (E2) controls energy homeostasis and feeding behaviors primarily by its nuclear receptor, estrogen receptor (ER) α. As such, it is important to understand the role of ERα signaling in the neuroendocrine control of feeding. Our previous data indicated that the loss of ERα signaling through estrogen response elements (ERE) alters food intake in a female mouse model. Hence, we hypothesize that ERE-dependent ERα is necessary for typical feeding behaviors in mice. To test this hypothesis, we examined feeding behaviors on low-fat diet (LFD) and high-fat diet (HFD) in three mouse strains: total ERα knockout (KO), ERα knockin/knockout (KIKO), which lack a functional DNA-binding domain, and their wild type (WT) C57 littermates comparing intact males and females and ovariectomized females with or without E2 replacement. All feeding behaviors were recorded using the Biological Data Acquisition monitoring system (Research Diets). In intact male mice, KO and KIKO consumed less than WT mice on LFD and HFD, while in intact female mice, KIKO consumed less than WT and KO. These differences were primarily driven by shorter meal duration in the KO and KIKO. In ovariectomized females, E2-treated WT and KIKO consumed more LFD than KO driven in part by an increase in meal frequency and a decrease in meal size. On HFD, WT consumed more than KO with E2, again due to effects on meal size and frequency. Collectively, these suggest that both ERE-dependent and -independent ERα signaling are involved in feeding behaviors in female mice depending on the diet consumed.

Food consumption by degree of processing is associated with nocturnal dipping and blood pressure variability: The ELSA-Brasil study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) allows the assessment of cardiovascular risk markers that cannot be obtained by casual measurements; however, the evidence on the association between food consumption and blood pressure (BP) assessed by ABPM is scarce. We aimed to evaluate the association between food consumption by degree of processing and ambulatory BP.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Cross-sectional analysis (2012-2014) of data from a subsample (n = 815) of ELSA-Brasil cohort participants who performed 24-h ABPM was conducted. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP means and variability during the 24 h and subperiods (sleep and wake), nocturnal dipping, and morning surge were evaluated. Food consumption was classified according to NOVA. Associations were tested by generalized linear models. The consumption of unprocessed, minimally processed foods, and culinary ingredients (U/MPF&CI) was 63.1% of daily caloric intake, 10.8% of processed (PF), and 24.8% of ultraprocessed (UPF). A negative association was found between U/MPF&CI consumption and extreme dipping (T2: odds ratio [OR] = 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55-0.58; T3: OR = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.54-0.57); and between UPF consumption and nondipping (T2: OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.55-0.85) and extreme dipping (T2: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.61-0.65; T3: OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.91-0.99). There was a positive association between PF consumption and extreme dipping (T2: OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.18-1.27; T3: OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.29-1.39) and sleep SBP variability (T3: Coef = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.03-1.10).

CONCLUSIONS

The high consumption of PF was associated with greater BP variability and extreme dipping, while the U/MPF&CI and UPF consumption were negatively associated with alterations in nocturnal dipping.

Effects of circadian rhythm on behavior and physiology of the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus

The present study investigated the behavioral and physiological responses to the circadian rhythm in the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. We found that righting behavior of sea cucumbers was significantly faster at night than that in daytime (P < 0.001). We thus suggest aqua-farmers carry out seeding at night in stock enhancement. The number of tentacle swings was significantly higher at night than that in daytime (P = 0.005). Thus, we suggest aqua-farmers provide diets before the peak of sea cucumber feeding at night. There was no significant difference in foraging behavior and defecation behavior during the day and at night. This indicates that not all behaviors have different characteristics in circadian rhythm. In addition, we found that cortisol concentration was significantly higher at night than that in daytime (P = 0.021). This suggests that sea cucumbers are probably more prone to be stressed at night. However, there was no significant difference in 5-HT and melatonin during the day and at night, suggesting that 5-HT and melatonin are probably not affected by circadian rhythm. The present study clarifies the behavioral and physiological responses to circadian rhythm and provides valuable information into sea cucumber aquaculture.

Hypothyroidism and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A coincidence or a causal relationship?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a global problem. It may be caused by metabolic and hormonal disorders, including hypothyroidism. However, non-thyroid causes of NAFLD in people with hypothyroidism, including improper eating behavior and low physical activity, should be acknowledged. This study aimed to present the current literature on whether the development of NAFLD is related to hypothyroidism or a typical consequence of an unhealthy lifestyle in people with hypothyroidism. The results of previous studies do not allow for an unequivocal determination of the pathogenetic relationship between hypothyroidism and NAFLD. Important non-thyroid-initiating factors include providing too many calories in relation to requirements, consuming excessive amounts of monosaccharides and saturated fats, being overweight, and maintaining low physical activity levels. The recommended nutritional model for both hypothyroidism and NAFLD may be the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits and vegetables, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamin E.

Replacing ground Rhodes grass hay with soyhulls in the pelleted diet: effects on ingestive behavior, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, growth performance, and economic viability of intensive fattening Lohi lambs

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of replacing soyhulls (SH) for ground Rhodes grass hay (RGH) in a pelleted diet on ingestive behavior, digestibility, blood metabolites, growth performance, and economic viability of fattening Lohi lambs. A total of thirty male lambs (age: 5 months; body weight 20.4 ± 0.24 kg) were allotted to one of the three diets (n = 10 lambs/diet) under a completely randomized design. The diets were with 25% RGH inclusion (control), replacing 15% RGH with 15% SH as a fiber source (SH-15), and containing only 25% SH inclusion on a dry basis (SH-25). Ingestive behavior parameters like time spent (min/day), bouts frequency (number/day), and bout length (min/bout) for feeding, drinking, rumination, chewing, standing, and lying were not influenced (P > 0.05) by replacing RGH with SH. The dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) chewing rate, rumination rate, and feeding efficiency were also not changed (P > 0.05) by dietary treatments, whereas total dry matter and NDF intakes, and their rumination efficiencies were lower (P < 0.05) for the SH-25 than for the rest of the treatments. The digestibility of NDF and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was higher (P < 0.05) for the SH-25 than for the rest of the treatments. The concentrations of blood metabolites like glucose, blood nitrogen, and cholesterol were not changed (P > 0.05) among the treatment groups. Similarly, performance parameters like dry matter intake, initial and final body weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio were similar (P > 0.05) across the treatments. However, the incidence of loose fecal consistency was higher (P < 0.05) for SH-25 than for the control. The values of economic efficiency were better for SH-25-fed lambs than those fed the rest of the treatments. Based on the results, substituting SH for RGH in a pelleted diet improved the digestibility of fiber fractions, and economics without affecting the growth performance, and blood metabolites of fattening lambs. However, lower rumination efficiency and loos fecal consistency are evidencing less effectiveness of SH fiber.

Process-oriented impacts of microplastic fibers on behavior and histology of fish

Microplastic pollution has raised global concern for its hazards to biota. To determine the direct impact of microplastics during their contact with fish, we exposed goldfish (Carassius auratus) to 100 and 1000 items/L waterborne microplastic fibers in the short- and long-term. In the presence of 1000 items/L of microplastic fibers, the coughing behavior of fish increased significantly after 2 h of exposure. Predatory behaviors decreased significantly by 53.0% after 45 d of exposure, and the reduction in daily food intake was negatively related to exposure duration in the 1000 items/L group. In addition, microplastic fibers stimulated dynamic mucus secretion across different fish tissues during the different processes evaluated in this study, with 30.0% and 62.9% overall increases in the secretory capacity of mucus cells in the 100 and 1000 items/L groups, respectively. These behavioral and histological alterations were derived from the ventilation, feeding, and swimming processes of goldfish. We regarded these changes as process-oriented impacts, suggesting the effects of microplastics on fish and how fish cope with microplastics.

Do changes in Lactuca sativa metabolic performance, induced by mycorrhizal symbionts and leaf UV-B irradiation, play a role towards tolerance to a polyphagous insect pest?

The increased ultraviolet radiation (UV) due to the altered stratospheric ozone leads to multiple plant physiological and biochemical adaptations, likely affecting their interaction with other organisms, such as pests and pathogens. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and UV-B treatment can be used as eco-friendly techniques to protect crops from pests by activating plant mechanisms of resistance. In this study, we investigated plant (Lactuca sativa) response to UV-B exposure and Funneliformis mosseae (IMA1) inoculation as well as the role of a major insect pest, Spodoptera littoralis. Lettuce plants exposed to UV-B were heavier and taller than non-irradiated ones. A considerable enrichment in phenolic, flavonoid, anthocyanin, and carotenoid contents and antioxidant capacity, along with redder and more homogenous leaf color, were also observed in UV-B-treated but not in AMF-inoculated plants. Biometric and biochemical data did not differ between AMF and non-AMF plants. AMF-inoculated plants showed hyphae, arbuscules, vesicles, and spores in their roots. AMF colonization levels were not affected by UV-B irradiation. No changes in S. littoralis-feeding behavior towards treated and untreated plants were observed, suggesting the ability of this generalist herbivore to overcome the plant chemical defenses boosted by UV-B exposure. The results of this multi-factorial study shed light on how polyphagous insect pests can cope with multiple plant physiological and biochemical adaptations following biotic and abiotic preconditioning.

The effects of ration particle size and live yeast supplementation on dairy cows performance under heat stress conditions

The objectives of this experiment were to evaluate the effects of ration particle size and dietary supplementation of live yeast (LY; Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on dry matter intake, milk yield and milk quality, apparent nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation parameters, and ruminal volatile fatty acids in dairy cattle under heat stress condition. Four multiparous Holstein dairy cattle in midlactation were fed 4 diets: high particle size (HPS), high particle size with 1 g/d/cow LY (Levucell® Sc 10 ME Titan® CNCM I-1077 (10 × 10⁹ cfu/g) (HPS + LY), short particle size (SPS), short particle size with 1 g/d/cow LY (Levucell® Sc 10 ME Titan® CNCM I-1077 (10 × 10⁹ cfu/g) (SPS + LY). Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial within a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Decreasing ration particle size increased intakes of dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (P < 0.05) but decreased peNDF intake (P < 0.0001). Milk production and milk fat percentage were similar in cows. Cows fed SPS had lower milk protein percentage (P < 0.05). No treatments had any significant effect on apparent nutrient digestibility. Ruminal pH was higher in cows supplemented LY (P < 0.05). The ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration and percentage of VFAs were not significantly affected by ration particle size or dietary LY supplementing. Rectal temperature (^oC) and respiratory rate (breaths/min) were similar between the groups. In conclusion, it may be concluded that decreasing ration particle size increased DM, and NDF intakes, without affecting milk yield or feed efficiency in cows exposed moderate heat stress.

Effects of parent- and child-related behavioral feeding problems in early childhood on malnutrition

OBJECTIVE

Children's responses to food and their caregivers during normal developmental periods are known as feeding behavior. For the healthy development of these behaviors, parent and child relationships must also be healthy. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of behavioral feeding problems on primary malnutrition (PM).

METHOD

The Behavioral Pediatric Nutrition Assessment Scale (BPFAS) was administered to 300 malnourished and 300 control pediatric patients aged from 9 months to 4 years who were referred to our pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Pre- and posttreatment data were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference between patients with and without malnutrition in terms of gender and age (p = 0.191, p = 0.128, respectively). Total behavioral frequency (TBF) and total behavioral problem (TBP) scores were significantly higher in the malnutrition group (p < 0.001). In the logistic regression analysis of risk factors that may affect malnutrition we found that a total TBF score of ≥85 increases the risk of developing malnutrition 3.731 times, a child TBF score of ≥62 increases it 2.644 times, and a parental TBF score of ≥21 increases it 4.82 times (p < 0.001). When anthropometric measurements and BPFAS scores of 127 PM patients who received behavioral therapy with enteral products and who attended follow-up were compared with their pretreatment data, there was a significant improvement (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that behavioral feeding problems may increase the risk of PM and that behavioral therapy together with enteral products has a positive effect on treatment. Therefore, in addition to nutritional support in patients with PM, offering behavioral feeding therapy to parents will positively affect both the child's physical development and the relationship between the parents and their child.

Relationships between feeding behaviors and emotions: an electroencephalogram (EEG) frequency analysis study

Feeding behaviors may be easily affected by emotions, both being based on brain activity; however, the relationships between them have not been explicitly defined. In this study, we investigated how emotional environments modulate subjective feelings, brain activity, and feeding behaviors. Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were obtained from healthy participants in conditions of virtual comfortable space (CS) and uncomfortable space (UCS) while eating chocolate, and the times required for eating it were measured. We found that the more participants tended to feel comfortable under the CS, the more it took time to eat in the UCS. However, the EEG emergence patterns in the two virtual spaces varied across the individuals. Upon focusing on the theta and low-beta bands, the strength of the mental condition and eating times were found to be guided by these frequency bands. The results determined that the theta and low-beta bands are likely important and relevant waves for feeding behaviors under emotional circumstances, following alterations in mental conditions.

[Micronutrient Powders Feeding Behaviors of Baby Caregivers in Remote Rural Areas of Sichuan Province: A Study Based on the Theory of Reasoned Action]

Objective

To explore the status quo and influencing factors of feeding behaviors of micronutrient powders (MNP), or yingyangbao in Pinyin, the Chinese Romanization system, of baby caregivers in remote rural areas of Sichuan Province.

Methods

In 2019, caregivers of babies aged 6 to 24 months from 6 counties of Sichuan Province were selected as the respondents of the survey through a multistage cluster random sampling method. Data concerning the baby caregivers' attitude of behavior, subjective norms, behavioral intention, and feeding behaviors about MNP feeding were collected with a questionnaire through a structured interview. Based on the theory of reasoned action, a structural equation model was constructed to explore the influencing factors of feeding behaviors.

Results

A total of 1002 valid samples were included in the study. The effective feeding rate of MNP among the baby caregivers was 55.49%. The results of model analysis suggested that attitude of behavior ( β direct=0.212, 95% CI: 0.105-0.327), subjective norm ( β direct=0.123, 95% CI: 0.016-0.228), and behavioral intention ( β direct=0.162, 95% CI: 0.093-0.224) could have a significant direct impact on MNP feeding behaviors. Behavior attitude ( β indirect=0.044, 95% CI: 0.023-0.073) and subjective norms ( β indirect=0.018, 95% CI: 0.001-0.040) could have a significant indirect impact on MNP feeding behaviors through the intermediary of behavioral intention. Among the three theoretical elements, attitude of behavior had the largest total effect on the feeding behavior ( β total=0.256, 95% CI: 0.148-0.366).

Conclusion

The effective feeding rate of MNP among baby caregivers in remote rural areas of Sichuan Province is low. The attitude of behavior and subjective norms of caregivers may have a direct impact on their feeding behavior, and both attitude of behavior and subjective norms can have an indirect impact on the feeding behavior through the intermediary of behavioral intention. The influence of attitude of behavior attitude on feeding behavior is greater than that of subjective norms. Future intervention plans for promoting effective MNP feeding should incorporate health education for baby caregivers and their important social relations. Thus, baby caregivers' attitude and willingness for MNP feeding will be strengthened and the effective feeding rate of MNP will be improved accordingly.

A Mixed-Methods Analysis of a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children and Primary Care Partnership to Promote Responsive Feeding for Infants in Group Well-Child Care

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the Healthy Eating through Group Well-Child Care (GWCC) intervention, a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and primary care partnership which seeks to promote responsive feeding practices among low-income caregivers, by examining its impact on infant growth and exploring the experiences of caregivers who participated in this intervention.

METHODS

Using a difference-in-differences approach, we examined change in weight-for-length among infants in GWCC before versus after implementation of the intervention compared with infants in individual well-child care (IWCC) over the same time-period. In parallel, we conducted semi-structured interviews in English and Spanish with caregivers who participated in the intervention to explore their perspectives and analyzed transcripts via the constant comparative method to identify salient themes.

RESULTS

Using electronic health record data from 279 GWCC and 6134 IWCC participants, we found no significant difference in first-year weight-for-length trajectory associated with participation in the intervention. We reached thematic saturation after 19 interviews with 22 caregivers and identified four major themes around feeding: 1) structural barriers limit access to healthy foods through WIC, 2) conflicting sources of nutrition advice challenge parental decision making, 3) exposure to novel foods facilitated further experimentation with healthier foods, and 4) discussion of responsive feeding facilitated awareness and adoption.

CONCLUSIONS

A primary care and WIC partnership to promote responsive feeding in the context of GWCC was well received by caregivers but was not associated with improved weight-for-length among infants. Structural barriers to implementing responsive feeding and healthy eating practices may have impacted lack of measurable results from the intervention.

Identification of a Stress-Sensitive Anorexigenic Neurocircuit From Medial Prefrontal Cortex to Lateral Hypothalamus

BACKGROUND

A greater understanding of how the brain controls appetite is fundamental to developing new approaches for treating diseases characterized by dysfunctional feeding behavior, such as obesity and anorexia nervosa.

METHODS

By modeling neural network dynamics related to homeostatic state and body mass index, we identified a novel pathway projecting from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to the lateral hypothalamus (LH) in humans (n = 53). We then assessed the physiological role and dissected the function of this mPFC-LH circuit in mice.

RESULTS

In vivo recordings of population calcium activity revealed that this glutamatergic mPFC-LH pathway is activated in response to acute stressors and inhibited during food consumption, suggesting a role in stress-related control over food intake. Consistent with this role, inhibition of this circuit increased feeding and sucrose seeking during mild stressors, but not under nonstressful conditions. Finally, chemogenetic or optogenetic activation of the mPFC-LH pathway is sufficient to suppress food intake and sucrose seeking in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies identify a glutamatergic mPFC-LH circuit as a novel stress-sensitive anorexigenic neural pathway involved in the cortical control of food intake.

Effects of gastric bypass surgery on brain connectivity responses to hypoglycemia

INTRODUCTION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) leads to beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis, and attenuated hormonal counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia are likely to contribute. RYGB also induces alterations in neural activity of cortical and subcortical brain regions. We aimed to characterize RYGB-induced changes in resting-state connectivity of specific brain regions of interest for energy homeostasis and behavioral control during hypoglycemia.

METHOD

Ten patients with BMI > 35 kg/m² were investigated with brain PET/MR imaging during a hyperinsulinemic normo- and hypoglycemic clamp, before and 4 months after RYGB. Hormonal levels were assessed throughout the clamp. Resting-state (RS) fMRI scans were acquired in the glucose-lowering phase of the clamp, and they were analyzed with a seed-to-voxel approach.

RESULTS

RS connectivity during initiation of hypoglycemia was significantly altered after RYGB between nucleus accumbens, thalamus, caudate, hypothalamus and their crosstalk with cortical and subcortical regions. Connectivity between the nucleus accumbens and the frontal pole was increased after RYGB, and this was associated with a reduction of ACTH (r = -0.639, p = 0.047) and cortisol (r = -0.635, p = 0.048) responses. Instead, connectivity between the caudate and the frontal pole after RYGB was reduced and this was associated with less attenuation of glucagon response during the hypoglycemic clamp (r = -0.728, p = 0.017), smaller reduction in fasting glucose (r = -0.798, p = 0.007) and less excess weight loss (r = 0.753, p = 0.012). No other significant associations were found between post-RYGB changes in ROI-to-voxel regional connectivity hormonal responses and metabolic or anthropometric outcomes.

CONCLUSION

RYGB alters brain connectivity during hypoglycemia of several neural pathways involved in reward, inhibitory control, and energy homeostasis. These changes are associated with altered hormonal responses to hypoglycemia and may be involved in the glucometabolic outcome of RYGB.

Feed intake patterns of modern genetics lactating sows: characterization and effect of the reproductive parameters

BACKGROUND

Knowing the feed intake pattern during lactation of modern genetic sows is crucial because it allows to anticipate possible problems and maximize their performance. On the other side, electronic feeders permit real-time data to be available for a more accurate evaluation of sow eating behavior. This work aimed to characterize the feed intake patterns of lactating highly prolific sows and determine their effect on reproductive performance. A database of 1,058 registers of feed intake collected from a commercial farm was used to identify five consistent sets of clusters (feeding curves) using machine learning. In the second step, the five feeding curves were characterized into five patterns by high, medium and low feed intake during 0-6 d and 7-28 d of lactation: 1-HH, 2-MH, 3-HM, 4-MM and 5-LL.

RESULTS

The mean daily feed intake of all the sows was 6.2 kg (0.06 SEM) across the 5 patterns. As the pattern numbers increased from 1-HH, 2-MH, 3-HM and 4-MM to 5-LL, their mean daily feed intake decreased from 7.6 to 6.9, 6.4, 5.8 and 4.3 (0.06 SEM) kg, respectively (P < 0.01). Sows with Pattern 1-HH tended to have shorter weaning-to-first service interval (P = 0.06) and had a higher farrowing rate than those with Pattern 5-LL (P < 0.01). Furthermore, contrast analysis showed that sows with Patterns 1-HH and 2-MH tended to have more piglets weaned (P = 0.05) and lower preweaning mortality (P = 0.07) than those with Patterns 3-HM and 4-MM. Also, sows with Patterns 1-HH and 3-HM had fewer stillborn piglets and a lower percentage of stillborn piglets and mummies than those with Patterns 2-MH and 4-MM (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates the importance of reaching Pattern 1-HH by rapidly increasing feed intake during early lactation and high feed intake during late lactation, which is associated with high weaning performance and subsequent reproductive performance of the sows. Also, the current study suggests that Pattern 1-HH is linked to good farrowing with a low percentage of stillborn piglets and mummies. Finally, it is critical for producers to timely identify a problem of sows' eating behavior and to make a prompt decision to intervene.

An empirically derived "prudent" dietary pattern is associated with lower obesity occurrence: Modeling and mapping from a national nutrition survey

The characterization of dietary patterns linked to obesity is important to address evidence-based interventions against the obesity epidemic. We hypothesized that both dietary behaviors and environmental characteristics affect the spatial distribution of obesity. This study aimed to analyze the role of dietary patterns in the occurrence of obesity in Colombia, taking into account the hierarchical (geographical) structure of the data. A cross-sectional study based on the Colombian National Nutrition Survey (2015) was carried out. A subsample of 8750 adults who reported dietary intake data (by the 24-hour diet recall method) was extracted. Dietary patterns were identified by principal component factor analysis. Their association with obesity occurrence was assessed by using multilevel Poisson regression models (8750 subjects nested in 33 geographic units). Thematic maps were constructed. The obesity prevalence was 18.0% (95% CI, 16.7-19.4). Four dietary patterns were identified for the study group. An inverse (negative) association was found in people with high adherence (vs. low adherence) to the "prudent pattern" (dairy products, fruits, vegetables) (prevalence ratio, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78-0.96; P = .01). People with high adherence to the "soft drinks and snacking pattern" (sugary drinks, meat products, snacks) tended to show a direct (positive) association with obesity occurrence (prevalence ratio, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.99-1.27; P = .06). Maps showed higher adherence levels to the prudent pattern in departments with higher socioeconomic conditions and lower obesity prevalence. To conclude, a prudent dietary pattern emerges as a key factor in obesity occurrence in Colombia. Obesity spatial distribution may be conditioned by contextual factors that represent social inequalities in health.

A thickened formula reduces feeding-associated oxygen desaturation and bradycardia in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Although preterm infants often experience desaturation or bradycardia during oral feeding, specific guidelines for its management are lacking.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a commercial thickened formula (TF) on oxygen saturation and heart rate stabilization during oral feeding in preterm infants.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 122 infants born at a median (interquartile range [IQR]) 31+6 weeks (29+4 -34+6 weeks) of gestation weighing 1,725 g (1,353-2,620 g) and fed commercial cornstarch-containing TF due to feeding-associated desaturation or bradycardia. We excluded infants fed TF to treat symptomatic regurgitation. Desaturation and bradycardia events were compared between 3 days prior to the change and 3 days after the change to TF. Desaturation and bradycardia were defined as SpO2 <85% and heart rate <100 beats/min during or immediately after oral bottle feeding, respectively.

RESULTS

The median (IQR) postmenstrual age and weight were 36+1 weeks (34+6-38+0 weeks) and 2,395 g (2,160-2,780 g), respectively, at the time of change to TF. The frequency of desaturation significantly decreased after TF feeding (median [IQR]: 2.3 [1.3-3.3] events/day vs. 0.3 [0-1.7] events/day, P< 0.001). Bradycardia also decreased after TF feeding (0.3 [0-1] events/day vs. 0 [0-0.7] events/day, P=0.006). There were no cases of diarrhea or electrolyte abnormalities after TF feeding. Defecation frequency decreased (P=0.037), and polyethylene glycol was prescribed to 27% of the TF-fed infants. In a subgroup analysis of 16 infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, the frequency of desaturation was reduced (2.3 [1.8-3.8] events/day vs. 0.5 [0-1.5] events/day, P=0.042), and weight gain improved (22.5 [3.1-36.3] g/day vs. 41.3 [28.1-55.1] g/day, P=0.019), after TF feeding.

CONCLUSION

TF feeding significantly reduces oral feeding-associated oxygen desaturation and bradycardia in preterm infants. TF may be useful for stabilizing oxygen saturation and heart rate among preterm infants with difficulties in oral feeding.

Association between Diet-related Behaviour and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Scoping Review

Individual dietary patterns may be influenced by diet-related behaviours, which may eventually play a significant role in contributing to colorectal cancer risk. As nearly half of colorectal cancer cases can be prevented through diet and lifestyle modification, in this study, we aimed to present an overview of the literature on diet-related behaviour and its effect on colorectal cancer risk among adults. Articles published from 2011 until July 2021 were selected. Out of the 1,198 articles retrieved, 25 were analyzed. There were 16 case-control studies, and nine of them were cohort studies. As a finding, the instruments used in this review were food frequency questionnaires (n = 23), followed by a semi-structured interview (n = 1), and diet records (n = 1). We demonstrated that unhealthy diet-related behaviours are linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer in adults and those food frequency questionnaires or food records are common instruments used to collect diet-related behaviours. This article imparts the research trends and directions of colorectal cancer risk factors and shows that diet-related behaviour varies and changes over time.

Estimating and validating the structure of feeding behavior networks

PURPOSE

Network analysis has been widely used in psychometrics over the past decade, yet it is unknown that whether this methodology could be applied in the field of child health assessment such as caregivers' feeding behavior and child eating behavior. Our study leveraged network psychometrics method to estimating and examining the network structure of Chinese Preschoolers' Caregivers' Feeding Behavior Scale (CPCFBS), and compared the applicability of network methods in the feeding behavior scale.

METHODS

The CPCFBS was previously applied in a sample of 768 preschoolers' caregivers, used to estimate the structure of feeding behavior networks. Network structure was estimated with Gaussian Graphical Model. Dimensionality was detected using Exploratory Graph Analysis (EGA). The network structural consistency was tested using EGA bootstrap. The network structure was compared with the original structure using model fit indices and reliability.

RESULTS

A seven-dimensional EGA network was explored after rearranging four items and deleting one item with unstable structural consistency. The absolute fit and relative fit of EGA structure were better than the original structure. The EGA structure had nearly same values of the reliability with the original structure.

CONCLUSION

Our study presented a novel perspective for feeding behavior analytical strategies, and demonstrated that network analysis was applicable and superior in exploring the structure of feeding behavior scales.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Melanocortin receptor agonist melanotan-II microinjected in the nucleus accumbens decreases appetitive and consumptive responding for food

RATIONALE

Obesity is a major health problem worldwide. An understanding of the factors that drive feeding behaviors is key to the development of pharmaceuticals to decrease appetite and consumption. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC), the melanocortin peptide precursor, is essential in the regulation of body weight and ingestive behaviors. Deletion of POMC or impairment of melanocortin signaling in the brain results in hyperphagic obesity. Neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus produce POMC and project to many areas including the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), which is well established in the rewarding and reinforcing effects of both food and drugs of abuse.

OBJECTIVE

These studies sought to determine the role of melanocortins in the NAcc on consumption of and motivation to obtain access to standard rodent chow.

METHODS

Male, C57BL/6J mice were microinjected bilaterally into the NAcc (100 nl/side) with the melanocortin receptor 3/4 agonist melanotan-II (MT-II; 0.1, 0.3, and 1 nmol), and ingestive behaviors were examined in both home cage and operant food self-administration experiments. In addition, the ability of MT-II in the NAcc to produce aversive properties or affect metabolic rate were tested.

RESULTS

MT-II injected into the NAcc significantly decreased consumption in both home cage and operant paradigms, and furthermore decreased appetitive responding to gain access to food. There was no development of conditioned taste avoidance or change in metabolic parameters following anorexic doses of MT-II.

CONCLUSIONS

MT-II in the NAcc decreased both the motivation to eat and the amount of food consumed without inducing an aversive state or affecting metabolic rate, suggesting a role for melanocortin signaling in the NAcc that is selective for appetite and satiety without affecting metabolism or producing an aversive state.

The COVID-19 pandemic and changes in eating habits of Brazilian adolescents

Introduction

The social distancing imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic influenced lifestyle and modified dietary patterns. Our objective was to evaluate the consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV), and ultra-processed foods (UPF), before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to identify the sociodemographic factors associated.

Methods

This study used data from the "Convid Adolescents", a survey on health behaviors that were collected through an online questionnaire self-completed by 9.470 adolescents between 12 and 17 years of age during the pandemic in Brazil in 2020. Individuals were invited to participate through a chain-sampling procedure called "virtual snowballing". Information about FV, and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic period were reported. The independent variables used were sex, age group, race/color of skin, kind of school, education level of the mother, region of Brazil, financial difficulties during the pandemic, food insecurity, and social restrictions. Logistic regression models were used.

Results

There was a reduction in the low consumption of FV (83.5% to 80.3%) and there was no significant difference in the high consumption of UPF (38.9% to 38.1%) before and during the pandemic. The incidence of low consumption of FV and high consumption of UPF during the pandemic was 20% and 13.8%, respectively. Girls, private school adolescents, who reported having food insecurity and financial difficulties during the pandemic were the most affected subgroups.

Conclusions

Despite little change in the prevalence of FV and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic, the incidence of high consumption of UPF and low FV consumption was high, and it identified in specific population subgroups.

Changes in eating behaviors according to household income in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: findings from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

OBJECTIVES

To assess social inequalities in changes in dietary behaviors among adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we compared changes in dietary behavior indicators by household income.

METHODS

Using cross-sectional data from the 2019 and 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the prevalence of dietary behaviors in adolescents (12-18 years old) was estimated and changes in dietary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic were evaluated. We assessed changes in dietary behaviors with a household income (as a measure of socioeconomic status, SES) disparity.

RESULTS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the average consumption of vegetables decreased and food insecurity worsened. Adolescents were more likely to skip breakfast than before COVID-19 (33.1 and 37.4%). Soft drink consumption also increased in 2020 from 2019 (7.6 and 14.8%), especially among boys. Average sugar intake and sodium intake showed a tendency to decrease only in girls, but there was no significant difference according to SES level. Skipping breakfast was particularly evident in the low-SES group, and the difference according to household income level (high vs. low) was greater during COVID-19 than before. The prevalence of soft drink consumption increased significantly in the low-SES group, but the rate of increase did not differ by SES level.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the social disparity in skipping breakfast was further aggravated during the COVID-19 pandemic. To reach a better understanding of the dietary behaviors of adolescents, continuous monitoring is necessary.

A critical analysis of eating disorders and the gut microbiome

The gut microbiota, also known as our "second brain" is an exciting frontier of research across a multitude of health domains. Gut microbes have been implicated in feeding behaviour and obesity, as well as mental health disorders including anxiety and depression, however their role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders (EDs) has only recently been considered. EDs are complex mental health conditions, shaped by a complicated interplay of factors. Perhaps due to an incomplete understanding of the etiology of EDs, treatment remains inadequate with affected individuals likely to face many relapses. The gut microbiota may be a missing piece in understanding the etiology of eating disorders, however more robust scientific inquiry is needed in the field before concrete conclusions can be made. In this spotlight paper, we critically evaluate what is known about the bi-directional relationship between gut microbes and biological processes that are implicated in the development and maintenance of EDs, including physiological functioning, hormones, neurotransmitters, the central nervous system, and the immune system. We outline limitations of current research, propose concrete steps to move the field forward and, hypothesize potential clinical implications of this research. Our gut is inhabited by millions of bacteria which have more recently been referred to as "our second brain". In fact, these microbes are thought to play a role in ED behaviour, associated anxiety and depression, and even affect our weight. Recent research has dove into this field with promising findings that have the potential to be applied clinically to improve ED recovery. The present paper discusses what is known about the gut microbiome in relation to EDs and the promising implications that leveraging this knowledge, through fecal microbiome transplants, probiotics, and microbiome-directed supplemental foods, could have on ED treatment.

Some Japanese mothers do not follow package instructions of infant formula: a web-based analytical cross-sectional study

Background:

Not following the infant formula package instruction endangers infant health. Although infant formula misuse has been reported abroad, its incidence in Japan remains unknown. Furthermore, it is reasonable to assume that experience in childcare reduces the likelihood of making mistakes in using infant formula. This study aimed to examine the association between compliance with infant formula package instruction and childcare experience in Tokyo and surrounding prefectures in Japan.

Methods:

Using a web-based questionnaire, mothers with infants were analyzed cross-sectionally and surveyed regarding their infants’ nutrition and formula preparation methods in August 2021. Compliance with the infant formula package was determined according to (a) using unlabeled infant formula, (b) preparing infant formula without reading package instructions, (c) giving formula to children ≥ 2 h after preparing, and (d) adding other ingredients to the formula bottle. The association between the misuse of infant formula and childcare experience was examined by grouping the participants by infant age (< 6 months and ≥ 6 months), and by comparing first-born child status with later-born. Of the 333 mothers with infants, 3 were excluded due to out-of-scope responses, and 330 were included in the analysis.

Results:

The major sources of information on infant feeding methods among the participants were obstetric facilities (92.1%), internet (36.1%), and family (20.9%). The proportions of participants using infant formulas not labeled as “infant formula,” such as follow-up milk, not preparing at prescribed concentrations, feeding infant formulas > 2 h after preparation, and adding additional ingredients to the bottle were 7.9%, 4.1%, 23.1%, and 15.9%, respectively, which suggest the misuse of infant formula. These four answers did not differ significantly between mothers of children aged < 6 months and ≥ 6 months or between those with first-born and later-born children.

Conclusion:

This study suggested that some Japanese mothers do not follow package instructions of infant formula in Japan. The misuse of infant formula may not be related to the length of time spent in childcare or the presence or absence of childcare experience. Providing appropriate information on the correct use of infant formula to all caregivers, regardless of their parenting experience, is required.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40795-022-00615-7.

Eat, Drink, Live: Foraging behavior of a nectarivore when relative humidity varies but nectar resources do not

To meet energetic and osmotic demands, animals make dynamic foraging decisions about food quality and quantity. In the wild, foraging animals may be forced to consume a less preferred or sub-optimal food source for long periods of time. Few choice feeding assays in laboratory settings approximate such contingencies. In this study the foraging behaviors of the hawkmoth Manduca sexta were measured when adult moths were placed within different relative humidity (RH) environments (20%, 40%, 60% and 80% RH) and provided with only one of the following experimental nectars: 0% (water), 12% or 24 % w/V sucrose solutions. Overall, ambient humidity influenced survivorship and foraging behaviors. Moth survivorship increased at higher ambient humidity regardless of experimental nectar. Moths that had access to experimental nectar imbibed large volumes of fluid regardless of what nectar was offered when placed at the lowest humidity (20% RH). However, when placed at the highest humidity (80% RH), moths imbibed higher volumes of fluid when given access to experimental nectar with sucrose in comparison with water. RH also influenced daily foraging behaviors: peak nectar consumption occurred earlier at lower RH levels. Consistent with previous studies in which moths could choose among nectar solutions, total energy intake was not affected by ambient RH under no-choice conditions. However, the proportion of time spent foraging and total energy consumption were significantly reduced across all RH levels in no-choice assays, when compared with previous studies of choice assays under the same conditions. Our results show that even when M. sexta moths are presented with limited options, they can alter their foraging behavior in response to environmental changes, enabling them to meet osmotic and/or energetic demands.

Assessing microplastic ingestion and occurrence of bisphenols and phthalates in bivalves, fish and holothurians from a Mediterranean marine protected area

Microplastic (MP) ingestion, along with accumulated plasticizers such as bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol F (BPF), and bisphenol S (BPS), and phthalates represented by diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), were quantified in bivalves, fish, and holothurians collected from a coastal pristine area at the western Mediterranean Sea. MP ingestion in sediment-feeders holothurians (mean value 12.67 ± 7.31 MPs/individual) was statistically higher than ingestion in bivalves and fish (mean 4.83 ± 5.35 and 3 ± 4.44 MPs/individual, respectively). The main ingested polymers were polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. The levels of BPS, BPF, and DEHP were highest in bivalves' soft tissue; BPA and DBP had the highest levels in the holothurians' muscle. In addition, the levels of all plasticizers assessed were lowest in fish muscle; only BPA levels in fish were higher than in bivalves, with intermediate values between those of bivalves and holothurians. This study provides data on exposure to MPs and plasticizers of different species inhabiting Cabrera Marine Protected Area (MPA) and highlights the differences in MP ingestion and levels of plasticizers between species with different ecological characteristics and feeding strategies.

[Effect of Information Communication on Micronutrient Powders (or Yingyangbao) Feeding Behaviors of Different Generations of Baby Caregivers in Rural Areas]

Objective

To evaluate the status of information communication concerning micronutrient powders (MNP), or yingyangbao in Pinyin, the Chinese Romanization system, in areas covered by the Child Nutrition Improvement Project in a province in southwest China, and to investigate the effect of different communication channels and message communicated on the feeding behaviors of different generations of caregivers.

Methods

In October 2019, 6 counties, including two counties with predominantly Han population, two counties with substantial Tibetan population, and two counties with substantial Yi population, were selected from a province in southwest China through multistage random cluster sampling. A total of 816 pairs of babies and their caregivers from 108 villages in 36 townships were enrolled for the study. The age of the babies ranged between 6 months to 24 months. A structured questionnaire concerning the demographic data of the babies and their caregivers, the communication channel of information on MNP and the message communicated, and the caregivers' MNP feeding behaviors was designed to collect data through face-to-face interviews. Logistic regression was done to analyze the effect of MNP information communication on the feeding behaviors of caregivers from different generations.

Results

Caregivers acquired information on MNP from village and township physicians (85.66%), surrounding populations (15.81%), and brochures and mass media (4.78%). The messages they received included the free availability of MNP (37.50%), feeding methods (49.26%), and the benefits of giving babies MNP (57.84%). Among the caregivers, 89.95% knew about the availability of MNP, 69.73% were aware of the benefits, and 84.07% actually received MNP. The correct feeding rate was 68.26% and the total effective feeding rate was 49.14%. The effective feeding rate of caregivers of the grandparents' generation (59.07%) was higher than that of the caregivers of the parents' generation (45.08%) ( P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis suggested that, for caregivers of the parents' generation, information communication channel of village and township physicians (odds ratio [ OR]=2.20, 95% confidence interval [ CI]: 1.13-4.31) and communication messages on feeding methods ( OR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.19-2.73) and benefits of MNP ( OR=2.40, 95% CI: 1.61-3.57) facilitated their effective feeding behavior, while communication message concerning the free availability of MNP ( OR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.38-0.87) inhibited their effective feeding behavior. For caregivers of the grandparents' generation, information communication channel of village and township physicians ( OR=2.95, 95% CI: 1.12-7.76) and communication messages on the feeding methods ( OR=2.86, 95% CI: 1.34-6.09) were facilitating factors of their effective feeding behaviors.

Conclusion

The main channel of MNP information delivered to caregivers from the areas covered by the study was face-to-face explanation by doctors. The message communicated mainly involved three aspects--the administration method, the benefits and free availability of MNP. The channel and message of MNP information communnication had different effects on the feeding behaviors of caregivers of the parents' and grandparents' generations. Future research should focus on developing targeted information communication strategies according to the characteristics of populations from different generations, so as to improve the caregivers' feeding behavior.

Variation of parental feeding practices during the COVID-2019 pandemic: a systematic review

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is highly contagious and has resulted in a protracted pandemic. Infections caused by new coronavirus strains, primarily Delta and Omicron and currently highly prevalent globally. In response to the epidemic, countries, and cities implemented isolation and quarantine guidance, such as limiting social contact, which have affected the lifestyles and quality of life of the population. Parental feeding behaviors may vary as a result of factors such as prolonged home isolation of parents and children, lack of supplies during isolation, and stress. This study was designed to assess the available evidence and its implications for parental feeding practices in the context of COVID-19. We screened and reviewed research published in five electronic databases between 2020 and 2022, and eight studies met the selection criteria. Parents were observed to use a variety of feeding practices, including high levels of coercive control and reduction of rules and limits according to Vaughn’s food parenting constructs. The findings suggest that parental feeding practices are changing as a result of the pandemic and that more research is needed to further explore how to provide supportive feeding guidance to parents during emergencies in order to jointly promote child health.

Lactational performance, feeding behavior, ruminal fermentation and nutrient digestibility in dairy cows fed whole-plant faba bean silage-based diet with fibrolytic enzyme

Whole-plant faba bean silage has a high content in indigestible fiber. Improvement of fiber digestibility of faba bean silage would benefit animal production. However, there is no study on pretreating fibrolytic enzyme in whole-plant faba bean silage-based diet for dairy cows on animal performance. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of pretreating whole-plant faba bean silage-baseddiet with fibrolytic enzyme (a mixture of xylanase and cellulase; AB Vista, UK) derived from Trichoderma reesei(FETR) on lactational performance, digestibility, ruminal fermentation characteristics, and feeding behavior of dairy cows. The animal trial was conducted using eight lactating Holstein cows (BW = 710 ± 44 kg and Days in Milk (DIM) = 121 ± 17 days) with four levels of FETR (0, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 mL of FETR/kg DM of silage) in a replicated Latin square design. These enzyme treatments were selected based on the previous in situ and in vitro findings that showed positive responses to the whole-plant faba bean silage. The enzyme treatments were directly applied on the silage prior to mixing process. The total mixed rations contained 31% of faba bean silage, 14% of grass hay, 3.5% of straw, 30% of barley and corn grain and 21.5% of concentrate. There was no significant difference of applying FETR on nutrient intake (P > 0.05) except for CP intake, which was reduced in FETR group compared to control (P < 0.01, 4.4 vs 4.54 kg/d). There was a linear effect found in NDF digestibility when treated with FETR, where maximum improvement was achieved with 0.5 mL of FETR application. The milk fat yield, percentage of milk fat and fat-corrected milk were linearly affected by the increasing level of enzyme. The cows fed a diet supplemented with enzymes tended to have a lower milk fat. Feed efficiency linearly responded to incremental levels of FETR. There was no enzyme effect on feeding behavior and nitrogen balance and utilization. Results from this study indicated that supplementing fibrolytic enzyme on whole-plant faba bean silage diets for dairy cows improved lactational performance, intake and digestibility with 0.5 mL of FETR application. However, adding higher enzyme level resulted in negative effects on animal performance.