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In vitro studies have suggested that isolated gut bacteria are able to metabolize PUFA into CLA (conjugated linoleic acids) and CLnA (conjugated linolenic acids). However, the bioavailability of fatty acid metabolites produced in vivo by the gut microbes remains to be studied. Therefore, we measured intestinal concentration and plasma accumulation of bacterial metabolites produced from dietary PUFA in mice, first injected with a lipoprotein lipase inhibitor, then force-fed with either sunflower oil (200 µl) rich in n-6 PUFA or linseed oil (200 µl) rich in n-3 PUFA. The greatest production of bacterial metabolites was observed in the caecum and colon, and at a much lesser extent in the jejunum and ileum. In the caecal content, CLA proportions were higher in sunflower oil force-fed mice whereas CLnA proportions were higher in linseed oil force-fed mice. The accumulation of the main metabolites (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2 and CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3) in the caecal tissue was not associated with their increase in the plasma, therefore suggesting that, if endogenously produced CLA and CLnA have any biological role in host metabolism regulation, their effect would be confined at the intestinal level, where the microbiota is abundant.
Citation: Druart C, Neyrinck AM, Vlaeminck B, Fievez V, Cani PD, Delzenne NM (2014) Role of the Lower and Upper Intestine in the Production and Absorption of Gut Microbiota-Derived PUFA Metabolites. PLoS ONE 9(1): e87560. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0087560
Editor: Yolanda Sanz, Instutite of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spain
Received: October 4, 2013; Accepted: December 21, 2013; Published: January 27, 2014
Copyright: © 2014 Druart et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Funding: CD benefits from a Danone Institute grant. BV is a Postdoctoral Fellow of the Fund for Scientific Research-Flanders (Belgium). PDC is a research associate from the FRS-FNRS (Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique, Belgium). PDC and NMD are recipients of FSR and FRSM subsidies (Fonds spéciaux de recherches, UCL, Belgium; Fonds de la recherche scientifique médicale, Belgium). PDC is a recipient of ERC Starting grant. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.
Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
The trillions of bacteria housed in our gastro-intestinal tract play an essential role in host homeostasis. This bacterial population was shown to be able to modulate the host's energy metabolism , inflammation ,  and immunity . The interactions between bacteria and their host are mediated, among others, by metabolites produced by the bacteria . Due to the huge size of the microbiome, a very high metabolic potential of the gut microbiota could be envisaged. The contribution of bacteria to fatty acid metabolism has been mostly and largely studied in ruminants . In vitro studies showed that gut bacteria isolated from humans are also able to metabolize linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (α-LnA) into metabolites like conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), conjugated linolenic acids (CLnA), and other trans fatty acids such as vaccenic acid (trans-11-18:1) –. These in vitro studies have shown that the main PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites are rumenic acid (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2), vaccenic acid (trans-11-18:1), CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 , . But these in vitro studies and the data from the biohydrogenation pathways of LA and α-LnA, which are quite well characterized in ruminants, suggest that other minor metabolites could also be produced such as CLA trans-10,cis-12-18:2; CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2 and CLA cis-9,cis-11-18:2 , –.
Interesting properties were attributed to dietary supplementation with chemically produced conjugated fatty acids isomers both in rodents and humans. Dietary supplementation with CLA (mainly cis-9,trans-11-18:2 or trans-10,cis-12-18:2 or a combination of both) was associated with anti-obesity, anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory properties , . CLA also inhibited growth of cancer cells in vitro . Similarly, CLnA, produced by Bifidobacterium breve, were able to inhibit the growth of human colon cancer cells and could be associated with an anti-obesity effect , . However, some effects of both CLA and CLnA seem to be isomer-specific and the conclusion about these effects should be cautiously interpreted –. In addition to these health effects attributed to CLA and CLnA, it seems that other bacterial metabolites such as vaccenic acid and very long chain conjugated PUFA could also be associated with beneficial effects towards the host , .
In fact, CLA-producing bacteria are detected in the human gut microbiota, suggesting that PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites production may take place in the human gut. In vitro studies confirm this, as bacteria isolated from human gut are able to produce both CLA and CLnA –. Our hypothesis is that metabolites endogenously produced by the gut microbiota from dietary PUFA could be a new kind of metabolites able to influence host's physiology. We proposed to test this hypothesis in mice, which possess in their gut microbiota, the bacteria able to produce PUFA metabolites in both human and animals (Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, Roseburia) .
In a previous study, we have shown that CLA can be found in the liver and adipose tissue of mice fed a high-fat (HF) diet, and that the dietary supplementation of fermentable carbohydrates with prebiotic properties, modulates proportion of CLA and lipid derived metabolites in the adipose tissue . This suggests that CLA can be endogenously produced in vivo, but there is no clear view of the availability of the PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites, and of the nature of the fatty acid metabolites that can be produced from different fatty acid precursors (n-3 versus n-6 PUFA, i.e.).
One challenging question raised by our previous results is to identify whether bacterial metabolites are produced in the upper and/or in the distal part of the gut, and if they can be absorbed. The upper parts of the gut contain fewer bacteria than the distal parts of the gut (103–104 bacteria/gram of jejunum content versus 1011–1012 bacteria/gram of colon content) –. However, the jejunum remains the main site of fatty acid absorption . The distal parts of the gut contain the highest number of bacteria but the potential contribution of the caecum and colon to fatty acid absorption remains poorly studied.
The aim of this study was to investigate the production of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites in the contents and tissues of different sites of the intestine of mice having received a single oral load of either linseed oil (rich in n-3 PUFA) or sunflower oil (rich in n-6 PUFA). PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites absorption and bioavailability has been assessed by analyzing fatty acid metabolites accumulation in the blood after pharmacological blocking of lipoprotein lipase activity (Tyloxapol) to avoid tissue uptake and distribution.
Materials and Methods
The ethical committee for animal care of the Health Sector of the Université catholique de Louvain, under the supervision of prof. F. Lemaigre et J.P. Dehoux under the specific number 2010/UCL/MD022, has specifically approved the animal experiments performed in this study. Housing conditions were as specified by the Belgian Law of 29 May 2013, on the protection of laboratory animals (agreement n° LA 1230314).
Animals and diets
Male C57bl6/J mice (Charles River Laboratories, France) of 9 weeks old at the beginning of the experiment, were housed in a controlled environment (12 h daylight, lights off at 6p.m.) with free access to diet (AO4, SAFE, Villemoisson-sur-Orge, France) and water. After one week of acclimatization and a 16-h period of fasting, mice were injected with the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) inhibitor Tyloxapol (iv retro-orbital injection, 0.5 mg/g of body weight; Sigma-Aldrich) under light anesthesia (Isoflurane; Forene, Abbott, Queenborough, Kent, England). Tyloxapol injection results in an accumulation of lipids in the blood . This accumulation of lipids should allow to assess the fatty acid profile of the circulating lipids in relation to their absorption rate. Thirty minutes after Tyloxapol injection, mice were force-fed with vegetable oils (200 µl). Six mice received sunflower oil and the other six received linseed oil. We analyzed the fatty acid profile of both vegetable oils by gas chromatography equipped with a flame-ionization detector (GC-FID) (Table 1).
Blood and tissue samples
Blood from the tail vein was sampled before the Tyloxapol injection (T-30), before oil force-feeding (T0), and ten minutes (T10) and 2 hours (T120) after oil force-feeding. Four hours after force-feeding (T240), mice were anesthetized with isoflurane gaz (Forene, Abbott, Queenborough, Kent, England). Blood from portal vein and cava vein was harvested for further analysis. The blood was centrifuged (5 min, 13000 g) and plasma was stored at -20°C. Mice were killed by cervical dislocation. Jejunum was sampled 4 cm after the stomach, ileum was sampled just before the caecum and the colon was sampled just after the caecum. Intestinal contents were carefully collected and frozen in liquid nitrogen before storage at −80°C. Then, all intestinal tissue samples (jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon) were flushed and carefully washed with cold saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) before being frozen in liquid nitrogen and storage at −80°C.
Fatty acid profile analysis
To determine the fatty acid profile in intestinal tissues and intestinal contents, we weighed 25 mg of jejunum, ileum and colon contents, 50 mg of caecal content and 50 mg of intestinal tissues (jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon). To determine the fatty acid profile in blood, 50 µl of plasma was used. The tissues, contents and blood samples were homogenized in a methanol:chloroform mixture (1∶2 V/V). Homogenates were filtered with Whatman filters N°1 (porosity 10 µm). The filters were rinsed with 2 ml of chloroform and 1 ml of methanol. Homogenates were purified successively with KCl 0.88% and KCl 0.88%:methanol (1∶1 V/V). After centrifugation (1500 g, 5 min), the chloroform phase was collected in new tubes and evaporated under a nitrogen flux.
The esterified fatty acids were then subjected to an alkaline hydrolysis (saponification). For that purpose, a solution of KOH in methanol was added and incubated at 70°C for 1 hour. The free fatty acids were methylated as follows: 0.4 ml of HCl in methanol (1.2 M) was added in the tube and incubated at 70°C for 20 minutes. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) were then extracted with hexane.
To determine the fatty acid profile in oils, 15 mg of oil was subjected to an alkaline hydrolysis and the free fatty acids were methylated following the procedures described above.
Quantification of FAME was made by gas-liquid chromatography (Focus GC, Thermo-Finnigan, Interscience, Belgium). The chromatograph was equipped with a flame ionization detector and a 100 m capillary column (i.d. 0.25 mm, film thickness 0.20 µm; RT-2560, Restek, Interscience, Belgium) using H2 as the carrier gas at a constant flow of 1.5 ml/min. The initial oven temperature was 80°C, increased at 25°C/min to 175°C (held for 10 min), then increased at 1°C/min to 200°C (held for 15 min), then increased at 5°C/min to 215°C (held for 5 min) and finally decreased at 20°C/min to 80°C. The temperature of the flame ionization detector was maintained at 250°C. The identification of each peak was made by comparison of retention times with pure FAME standards (Larodan Fine Chemicals AB, Malmö, Sweden). Peak identification was further confirmed by an analysis of samples (oils, caecum contents and caecum tissues) using a GC method combining two different temperature programs following the procedure described below. Composition analysis of FAME was carried out by a gas chromatograph (HP 6890A, Agilent Technologies, Diegem, Belgium) equipped with a 75-m SP-2560™ capillary column (i.d. 0.18 mm, film thickness, 0.14 µm; Supelco Analytical, Bellefonte, PA) and a flame ionization detector. A combination of two oven temperature programs was used in this study to achieve determination of most cis and trans 16∶1, branched chain fatty acids and 18∶1 isomers according to the method of Kramer et al.  with modifications . Most FAME peaks were identified using quantitative mixtures of methyl ester standards (BR2 and BR3, Larodan Fine Chemicals, Malmö, Sweden; Supelco® 37, Supelco Analytical, Bellefonte, PA; PUFA-3, Matreya LLC, Pleasant Gap, PA). Fatty acids for which no standards were available commercially were identified by order of elution according to Precht et al.  and Kramer et al. . Also, aliquots of methylated samples were pooled and subsequently fractionated by TLC on silica gel plates impregnated with silver nitrate according to Destaillats et al  with modifications, in order to confirm purity for peaks of interest in chromatograms and to eliminate peaks that were not fatty acids (e.g. dimethyl acetals).
Blood lipids analysis
Plasma triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentrations were measured using kits coupling enzymatic reaction and spectrophotometric detection of reaction end-products (Diasys Diagnostic and Systems, Germany and Randox Laboratories Limited, United Kingdom), according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Results are presented as mean ± SEM (standard error of mean). Linear mixed-effects model followed by contrasts assessed the statistical difference between both the two different oil force-feedings and the different intestinal contents or the different intestinal tissues or the different blood sample times (SPSS, version 20.0). For the fatty acid analyzed only in linseed oil force-fed mice, the statistical significance of difference between the different intestinal contents, intestinal tissues or blood sample times were assessed by one-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc multiple comparison test (GraphPad Prism Software). Statistical significance was defined for a p-value lower than 0.05.
Fatty acid characterization of linseed and sunflower oils
Sunflower oil was selected upon its high content in n-6 PUFA (LA) and the linseed oil for its high content in n-3 PUFA (α-LnA) . GC-FID analysis of the oils confirmed that α-LnA represents about 50% of the fatty acids identified in the linseed oil whereas it represents only 0.06% of the fatty acids identified in the sunflower oil (Table 1). LA represents 63% of the total fatty acids identified in the sunflower oil whereas it represents only 16% of the total fatty acids identified in the linseed oil (Table 1). The linseed oil is thus characterized by a low ratio LA/α-LnA (0.3) whereas the sunflower oil is characterized by a high ratio LA/α-LnA (1052). Sunflower oil contained a higher proportion of trans-9,cis-12-18:2, which represented 0.3% of the total fatty acids, as well as a higher proportion of CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2 than the linseed oil. These observations will be taken into account when interpreting results obtained in tissues and biological fluids.
Fatty acid profile in intestinal contents of oil force-fed mice reveals a high availability of PUFA precursors throughout the gut and a higher proportion of bacterial metabolites in the caecum and colon than in the jejunum or ileum
In the intestinal contents, the total fatty acid amount decreased with progress down the gut. The total amount of fatty acid was very high in the jejunum (117.9 µg fatty acids/mg of jejunum content in linseed oil force-fed mice and 90.69 µg fatty acids/mg of jejunum content in sunflower oil force-fed mice) and decreased dramatically between jejunum and ileum (38 µg fatty acids/mg of ileum content in linseed oil force-fed mice and 39.74 µg fatty acids/mg of ileum content in sunflower oil force-fed mice). The amounts of fatty acid found in ileum, caecum and colon contents were similar.
In all the different intestinal contents (jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon), varying amounts of LA and α-LnA were observed, in accordance with the fatty acid profile of the ingested oil: a high proportion of LA was observed in the group of mice that received sunflower oil, and a high proportion of α-LnA in the group of mice receiving linseed oil (Fig 1 A, G). Interestingly, oils force-feeding increased the contents of LA and α-LnA at a similar extent in the upper (jejunum and ileum contents) and lower (caecum and colon contents) parts of the gut (Fig 1 A, G), suggesting that the quantity of PUFA available for the bacterial metabolism was increased in all intestinal contents after administration of oils.
Linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid and PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites in intestinal contents (jejunum content – ileum content – caecum content and colon content) of mice force-fed with linseed oil (rich in n-3 LnA) or sunflower oil (rich in n-6 LA). Results are expressed as a percentage of identified fatty acids. Data are mean ± SEM. Linear mixed-effects model followed by contrasts assessed the statistical difference between both the two oil force-feedings and the different intestinal contents. * superscripts show significant differences (p<0.05) between linseed oil force-feeding and sunflower oil force-feeding in each intestinal content. Different small superscript letters show significant differences (p<0.05) between intestinal contents in linseed oil force-fed mice. Different capital superscript letters indicate significant differences (p<0.05) between intestinal contents in sunflower oil force-fed mice. trans-11,cis-15-18:2 was detected in linseed oil force-fed mice only.
Interestingly, LA and α-LnA-derived bacterial metabolites are present in higher proportions in the content of the distal parts of the gut (caecum and colon) than in the content of the proximal parts of the gut (jejunum and ileum) (Fig 1 B-F, H-I).
The proportions of LA metabolites (such as rumenic acid, vaccenic acid, CLA trans-10,cis-12-18:2 and CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2) were higher in the group of mice force-fed with sunflower oil compared with the mice force-fed with linseed oil (Fig 1 B-E). The proportions of α-LnA metabolites (such as CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2) were higher in the group of mice force-fed with linseed oil than in the group of mice force-fed with sunflower oil (Fig 1 H,I; Figure S1). However, the GC method with a single temperature program did not allow to clearly separate the trans-11,cis-15-18:2 and the trans-9,cis-12-18:2. With the two temperatures method, we observed that trans-9,cis-12-18:2 was not detectable in caecum content and caecum tissue of linseed oil force-fed mice whereas it was detectable in the sunflower oil force-fed mice, probably because it was supplied directly by the sunflower oil (Figure S1 and Figure S2). As trans-9,cis-12-18:2 was not detectable in caecum content and caecum tissue of the linseed oil force-fed mice, we assumed that trans-11,cis-15-18:2 was correctly identified only in this group of mice.
The monounsaturated bacterial metabolite called vaccenic acid (trans-11-18:1) can be produced from both LA and α-LnA. In the group of mice force-fed with sunflower oil, the proportion of vaccenic acid in the caecal content was higher than in the three other intestinal contents (jejunum, ileum and colon contents) (Fig 1 C). The vaccenic acid proportion in the caecal content was higher in the sunflower oil force-fed mice than in the linseed oil force-fed mice (Fig 1 C). This result could suggest that vaccenic acid is mainly produced from bacterial metabolism of LA rather than from bacterial metabolism of α-LnA. In other intestinal contents, we did not observe any difference of vaccenic acid content between the two groups of mice (Fig 1 C).
Fatty acid profile in intestinal tissues
As shown in intestinal contents, and in accordance with the oil composition, the proportion of LA was higher in the sunflower oil force-fed mice than in the linseed oil force-fed mice, but this difference was significant in the jejunum and ileum tissues only (not in the caecum and colon tissues) (Fig 2 A). The proportion of α-LnA was higher in the linseed oil force-fed mice than in the sunflower oil force-fed mice in all intestinal tissues (Fig 2 G).
Linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid and PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites in intestinal tissues (jejunum tissue – ileum tissue – caecum tissue and colon tissue) of mice force-fed with linseed oil (rich in n-3 LnA) or sunflower oil (rich in n-6 LA). Results are expressed as a percentage of identified fatty acids. Data are mean ± SEM. Linear mixed-effects model followed by contrasts assessed the statistical difference between both the two oil force-feedings and the different intestinal tissues. * superscripts show significant differences (p<0.05) between linseed oil force-feeding and sunflower oil force-feeding in each intestinal tissue. Different small superscript letters show significant differences (p<0.05) between intestinal tissues in linseed oil force-fed mice. Different capital superscript letters indicate significant differences (p<0.05) between intestinal tissues in sunflower oil force-fed mice. trans-11,cis-15-18:2 was detected in linseed oil force-fed mice only.
The different bacterial metabolites reached the intestinal tissues. Most of metabolites accumulated in the lower gut (from ileum to the colon) (Fig 2 B-D, F, H, I). Rumenic acid (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2), and vaccenic acid (trans-11-18:1), two main LA-derived bacterial metabolites, and CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2, two main α-LnA-derived bacterial metabolites, accumulated mainly in the caecal tissue (Fig 2 B,C; H,I). The proportions of trans-11,cis-15-18:2 and of CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis -15-18:3 (to a lesser extent) mostly increased in the caecal tissue of linseed oil force-fed mice, and not in the colon (Fig 2 H,I) even if the proportion in the caecum and colon contents were similar. For none of the intestinal tissues, proportions of LA metabolites (rumenic acid and vaccenic acid) differed between the two groups of mice (Fig 2 B-D,F). The proportion of the α-LnA metabolite (CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3) measured in the jejunum, caecum and colon tissues was higher in the linseed oil compared with the sunflower oil treated mice (Fig 2 H). Trans fatty acid isomers found in the original oil (e.g. trans-9,trans-11-18:2 and trans-9,cis-12-18:2 in sunflower oil) mainly accumulated in the jejunum tissue of sunflower oil force-fed mice (Fig 2E; Figure S1B), suggesting that these dietary fatty acids are mainly absorbed in the jejunum.
Circulating Fatty acid profile
In order to know if the bacterial metabolites found in the intestinal contents and in the intestinal tissues can exert some systemic effects, we analyzed the availability of these lipophilic metabolites in the blood. Mice were previously treated with LPL inhibitor, Tyloxapol, allowing lipid accumulation in the blood. The accumulation of lipids in blood is shown in Fig 3A (plasma triglycerides) and 3B (plasma NEFA). Plasma triglycerides increased directly after the Tyloxapol injection and until 240 min whereas the plasma NEFA increased immediately after the oil force-feeding and did not further increased between 120 min and 240 min (Fig 3 A, B).
Triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured just before the Tyloxapol injection (T-30), just before oil force-feeding (T0), ten minutes (T10), 2 hours (T120) and 4 hours (T240) after oil force-feeding in the plasma of mice force-fed with linseed oil (rich in n-3 LnA) or sunflower oil (rich in n-6 LA). Data are mean ± SEM. Linear mixed-effects model followed by contrasts assessed the statistical difference between both the two oil force-feedings and the blood sample times. Differences between linseed oil force-fed mice and sunflower oil force-fed mice were not significant at any of the blood sample times. Grey small superscript letters show significant differences (p<0.05) between blood sample times in linseed oil force-fed mice. Black major superscript letters show significant differences (p<0.05) between the blood sample times in sunflower oil force-fed mice.
Ten minutes after force-feeding, plasma levels of LA and α-LnA were similar in both groups of mice. Later, i.e. 120 and 240 minutes after force-feeding, the fatty acid profile in the circulating lipids was in agreement with the fatty acid profile of the oils: we found a higher proportion of LA in the blood of sunflower oil force-fed mice and a higher proportion of α-LnA in the blood of linseed oil force-fed mice (Fig 4 A, B).
Linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid and PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites in peripheral plasma of mice force-fed with linseed oil (rich in n-3 LnA) or sunflower oil (rich in n-6 LA) at different timing after the force-feeding (10 minutes; 120 minutes and 240 minutes after the force-feeding). Results are expressed as a percentage of identified fatty acids. Data are mean ± SEM. Linear mixed-effects model followed by contrasts assessed the statistical difference between both the two oil force-feedings and the blood sample times. * superscripts show significant differences (p<0.05) between linseed oil force-feeding and sunflower oil force-feeding at each blood sample time. Different small superscript letters show significant differences (p<0.05) between blood sample times in linseed oil force-fed mice. Different capital superscript letters indicate significant differences (p<0.05) between blood sample times in sunflower oil force-fed mice. trans-11,cis-15-18:2 was detected in linseed oil force-fed mice only.
Proportions of the three bacterial metabolites that accumulated mainly in the caecal tissue (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2, CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2) were not modified by oil force-feeding, nor by the timing of the different blood samplings (Data not shown). However, the proportions of CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2 and trans-9,cis-12-18:2, fatty acids that accumulated in the jejunum tissue and were probably of dietary origin, increased in a time-dependent way (Fig 4C, Fig S1C).
We have previously shown that proportions of rumenic acid and vaccenic acid were increased in caecal tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue of mice fed a HF diet or a HF diet supplemented with prebiotic carbohydrates, that modulate the gut microbiota composition , . This study suggests that those particular fatty acids may be metabolites produced from dietary fatty acids by commensal bacteria and that those metabolites could have an effect outside the gut. However, little is known about the availability of dietary fatty acids in the distal parts of the gut and the systemic bioavailability of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites. In the present in vivo experiment, we analyzed the fatty acid profile in all the intestinal contents and intestinal tissues, in order to verify if the precursors, LA and α-LnA, were effectively present in all the intestinal contents, including the distal parts (caecum and colon contents), where bacteria are the most abundant. A high proportion of LA and α-LnA was observed in mice receiving sunflower oil (rich in n-6 LA) and linseed oil (rich in n-3 LnA), respectively; these changes occurring in all intestinal contents (including caecum and colon contents). Although it is assumed that 95% of dietary lipids are absorbed in the proximal part of the gut in physiologic conditions , our results suggest that oils were not completely absorbed in the jejunum and ileum under our experimental conditions. In a HF diet model, it has been shown that an overflow of lipids reaches the distal part of the small intestine, and so could also reach the colon . Therefore, the oil force-feeding is not representative for physiologic conditions but rather mimics an overflow of lipids, as created in mice fed a HF diet. Our protocol created a sufficient flow of substrates available for bacterial metabolism in all intestinal segments.
Since all mice arrived at the same time, had the same genetic background, ate the same food from weaning, and were randomly assigned to one or the other oil before the force-feeding experiment, we suppose that microbiota composition did not differ significantly between the two groups of mice before the experiment. Indeed, major differences in the composition of the gut microbiota composition could have important impact on PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites production. However, modifications of the gut microbiota composition could be induced by the oil force-feedings. Indeed, arguments from the literature suggest that the type of dietary fat is able to modulate the composition of the gut microbiota –. It was shown that saturated fatty acids induced more changes in the gut microbiota composition than monounsaturated fatty acids or polyunsaturated fatty acids . Mujico et al have also shown that supplementation with an oleic acid-derived compound is able to decrease body weight gain and to restore the proportions of bacteria after HF diet treatment . However, in this short-term experiment, we did not know if 4 hours are sufficient to change the gut microbiota composition. So, the analysis of the gut microbiota composition after the oil force-feeding represents a very interesting prospect to the present study.
This study highlights for the first time that a production of CLnA takes place in vivo and in agreement with the in vitro studies, the main α-LnA metabolites seem to be CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 , . Proportions of the majority of bacterial metabolites (LA metabolites and α-LnA metabolites) were lower in the contents of the proximal parts of the gut (jejunum and ileum contents) than in the contents of the distal parts of the gut (caecum and colon contents) where the density and the diversity of the gut microbiota are the highest , , . In view of these results, we postulate that these metabolites are produced by bacterial metabolism rather than supplied by the diet.
In the caecum content, the production of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites is influenced both by the quantity and the nature (n-3 PUFA versus n-6 PUFA) of the dietary fatty acids. Indeed, we found higher proportions of CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 in the mice force-fed with linseed oil (rich in n-3 PUFA) whereas we observed a higher proportion of rumenic acid (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2), vaccenic acid (trans-11-18:1) and CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2 in mice force-fed with sunflower oil (rich in n-6 PUFA). These observations were already found in ruminants where the biohydrogenation pathways of LA and α-LnA are quite well characterized , suggesting that a similar “biohydrogenation pathway” could take place in mammalian gut, even if the two microbial environments are different.
The production of one particular PUFA-derived bacterial metabolite, CLA cis-9,cis-11-18:2, seems to be influenced by both the intestinal segment and the nature of the dietary fatty acid. Indeed, the proportion of CLA cis-9,cis-11-18:2 in the ileum content was higher in the sunflower oil force-fed mice than in the linseed oil force-fed mice whereas its proportion in the contents of the distal parts of the gut (caecum and colon contents) tended to be higher in the linseed oil force-fed mice than in the sunflower oil force-fed mice. According to the ruminant biohydrogenation pathways proposed by Chilliard Y. et al, the CLA cis-9,cis-11-18:2 could be a metabolite produced from both LA and α-LnA . This observation could explain the differences between the intestinal segments since the bacterial population of the different intestinal segments seems to be different .
Our results suggest that PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites are mainly produced in the distal part of the gut. However, the main place of lipid absorption remains the small intestine . We confirm this since a two-fold decrease of total fatty acid amount was observed between jejunum and ileum contents; suggesting that a large part of the fatty acids present in the intestinal lumen are absorbed in the jejunum. To study the bioavailability of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites, we focused on their accumulation in intestinal tissues and in peripheral plasma. In the intestinal tissues, the majority of the bacterial metabolites accumulated in the caecum tissue which is in agreement with the higher proportion of these metabolites in the caecum content. However, the proportions of some bacterial metabolites such as rumenic acid (CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2), CLnA cis-9,trans-11,cis-15-18:3 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 were similar in the caecum and colon contents. In intestinal tissues, the proportions of these bacterial metabolites were higher in the caecum tissue than in the colon tissue, suggesting that the caecal tissue has a higher capacity of up-take than the colon tissue. This observation could be explained by the thicker layer of mucus in the colon than in the caecum . The mucus layer could interfere with the fatty acid up-take by intestinal cells. However, for these bacterial metabolites that accumulated mainly in the caecum tissue, their bioavailability, revealed by analysis of circulating lipids, was not influenced neither by the type of oil used nor by the timing of blood samples. These results suggest that these bacterial metabolites could exert rather local effects in intestinal tissues of host than direct systemic effects.
However, changes in fatty acid profile in intestinal tissues could have effects on host's physiology, namely by interactions with cell membrane receptors like G protein-coupled receptors (GPR) or with nuclear receptor such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR). On one hand, it was shown that several GPRs, such as GPR40 and GPR120, which are expressed in the gastrointestinal tissues, could be considered as fat sensors . Schmidt et al have shown that two CLA isomers, CLA cis-9,trans-11-18:2 and CLA trans-10,cis-12-18:2 are full GRP40 agonists . Activation of GPR40 in enteroendocrine cells increases incretins production by these cells . GPR120 was also shown to be able to increase incretins production after activation by lipid agonist, such as linoleic and α-linolenic acid . However, the ability of CLA or CLnA to bind GPR120 has not been demonstrated yet. It could be very interesting to test the hypothesis that PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites, by acting as GPR40 and/or GPR120 agonists, could thus modulate host metabolism, namely by changing incretins production. On the other hand, PPARγ is expressed at the intestinal level and activation of this receptor by CLA is associated with a decreased of inflammation in murine model of inflammatory bowel diseases . So, the activation of these receptors by PUFA-derived bacterial metabolism at the intestinal level could have an effect on host metabolism or host inflammation.
In a previous study, we described an accumulation of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites in adipose tissue . It might be possible that under pathologic conditions characterized by an alteration of the gut barrier function such as in HF diet conditions  or inflammatory bowel diseases , these PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites could cross the gut epithelium and reach the systemic bloodstream in a higher quantity than under physiologic conditions. Indeed, it has been shown that HF diet treatment increases gut permeability and thereby promotes the paracellular translocation of lipophilic molecules, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), lipophilic components of the gram-negative bacterial cells . Under HF diet treatment, it is likely that other lipophilic bacterial metabolites (e.g. CLA and CLnA) could cross the gut epithelium in this way and reach the lymphatic or portal circulation.
Contrary to the PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites that were undetectable in oils and that accumulated mainly in the caecum tissue, two fatty acids, CLA trans-9,trans-11-18:2 and trans-9,cis-12-18:2, accumulated mainly in the jejunum tissue of sunflower oil force-fed mice probably because these fatty acids are supplied by the sunflower oil. This suggests that the jejunum tissue fatty acid profile reflects the oil fatty acid profile rather than an accumulation of PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites produced in situ. In circulating lipids (120 and 240 minutes after force-feeding), the proportions of both fatty acids are higher in the sunflower oil force-fed mice than in the linseed oil force-fed mice. Furthermore, in the sunflower oil force-fed mice, the proportion of these fatty acids increased in a time dependent manner, suggesting that they are absorbed from the jejunum. We propose that among the fatty acids present in the diet, or produced upon bacterial metabolism, only those accumulating in the jejunum tissue can be effectively absorbed. Thus our data suggests that the systemic bioavailability of the PUFA-derived bacterial metabolites produced in the lower part of the gut remains negligible.
Finally, in view of the results obtained in this experiment, we are able to validate and extend our knowledge on gut microbial metabolism occurring in vivo in rodents from dietary PUFA. Before our studies, the proposed pathways were suggested from in vitro studies, or extrapolated from studies performed in ruminants , , ,  (Fig 5). The relevance of those pathways in humans would be interesting to evaluate in the future.
Sum of trans-9,cis-12-18:2 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 in intestinal contents, intestinal tissues and circulating lipids of the sunflower oil force-fed mice. The results are expressed as a percentage of identified fatty acids. Data are mean ± SEM. Statistical significance of differences between intestinal contents, intestinal tissues and blood samples times were assessed by one-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post-hoc multiple comparison test. Values with unlike superscript letters are significantly different (p<0.05).
trans-9,cis-12-18:2 and trans-11,cis-15-18:2 in caecum content and caecum tissue analyzed by the GC method combining two temperature program. The results are expressed as a percentage of identified fatty acids. Data are mean ± SEM. Statistical significance of difference between oil force-feedings was assessed by Student t-test (** p<0.01; *** p<0.001).
Conceived and designed the experiments: AMN NMD. Performed the experiments: CD AMN. Analyzed the data: CD AMN. Wrote the paper: CD. Participated to the analysis of PUFA-metabolites: BV VF. Planned and reviewed all experiments and manuscript preparation: NMD. Provided intellectual input on the paper and reviewed the paper: AMN BV VF PDC NMD.
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text:
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
One Book Down, 51 to go
I read in spurts, it's unpredictable, but I did manage to finish my first book of the year. Kildee House by Rutherford Montgomery, is recommended by Sonlight. It was a sweet story about a man who builds a little house on a mountain and is overrun with raccoons and spotted skunks. I don't think it's quite interesting enough to capture the attention of my kids at this stage. Maybe in a couple of years they might enjoy reading it on their own. It wouldn't be my pick for a read-aloud. It was worth reading, I just think it was a little slow. I did like Jerome's care for the animals and how Jerome and the children's characters developed. It is a hopeful story with a simple plot.

domain: library


text:
Check out our PhyTip column catalog.
Our guide to protein purification and how this workflow can benefit from laboratory automation.
Dual Flow Chromatography - Protein Purification in a Pipette Tip »
Protein Expression Analysis - Fast yet Flexible »
Perfusion vs. Fed-batch Bioreactors - are there any Differences in Protein Quality? »
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Automation of MiniPrep in a Drug Discovery Setting »
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Biotage is a global Life Science company that develops innovative and effective solutions for separation within organic and analytical chemistry, as well as for industrial applications.

domain: chemistry


text:
Sodexo Presents at the 11th International Roundtable of Multinational Corporations’ Leaders
November 02, 2018
November 1-2, the 11th International Roundtable of Multinational Corporations’ Leaders (IRMCL) themed as “An Open China and the World” was held in Tianjin.
This event was sponsored by the China International Council for the Promotion of Multinational Corporations (CICPMC), and co-sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, United Nations Environmental Programme, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
The 11th International Roundtable of Multinational Corporations’ Leaders(IRMCL)
Sodexo Quality of Life services facilitates a Better Tomorrow through business leadership
Johnpaul Dimech, Regional Chairman for Sodexo Asia Pacific & member of Group Executive Committee, Sodexo Group participated in the “International Cooperation and Development Forum” and delivered his keynote speech on the “Value of Business Leadership and CSR”.
Johnpaul Dimech, Regional Chairman for Sodexo Asia Pacific & member of Group Executive Committee, Sodexo Group delivered his keynote speech
Sodexo monitors its corporate responsibility roadmap, “Better Tomorrow 2025”. It focuses on three aspects - “Wellness”, “Diversity & Inclusion” and “Waste Reduction” to improve its Quality of Life positioning.
Promoting Wellness: In China, based on our mission to improve consumers’ Quality of Life, Sodexo collaborates with the China Youth Development Foundation and launched a series of nutrition, health and wellness programs through its Hope Kitchen projects. By delivering diversified training courses to over 130 managerial staff and cooks from 60 Hope Kitchens in Hubei Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, this programme popularized the knowledge of nutrition as well as health and has benefited more than 30,000 students from participating Hope Schools.
Improving Diversity and Inclusion: Diversity and inclusion is our long committed mission as well as the original source of sustainable development and service innovation. We commit to gender balance. In Sodexo China currently, women employees account for 64% of total number of employees and close to 38% of its senior management team.
As one of the founding members of the International Labor Organization Global Business and Disability Network-China Chapter, Sodexo further creates job opportunities for people with disabilities and respects employees from different regions and backgrounds. It currently has 95 employees with disabilities being part of the Sodexo China team. Sodexo further launched its “Barista Training Program” to provide training for trainees with hearing and speech impairment. Completion of the course further enables them to gain employment with Sodexo for better integration to mainstream society.
Reducing Waste: In Sodexo China, we piloted a 3-month Clear Your Plate Program, encouraging consumers to implement waste reduction. Close to 2,000 consumers and clients participated, helping to reduce more than 5,200kg of food waste monthly at Sodexo-run restaurants. Sodexo also raised funds to support reading project for primary school in rural area of Hebei province, and built Hope Garden.
During the Dialogue, Johnpaul DIMECH mentioned, “Sodexo’s mission is about “Improving the Quality the Daily Life of our employees and the people we serve, contributing to the economic, social and environmental development of the communities, regions and countries where we operate.” We are very passionate about boosting Sodexo’s business leadership and corporate responsibility. We can open our minds, seek the support and cooperation from local governments and active organizations like the United Nations to collectively achieve this mission.”
Innovative development through better collaboration,
Sodexo establishes digital & innovation ecosystem
Martin BODEN, Sodexo China Country President attended the China-Europe Business Leaders Cooperation Forum and delivered keynote speech on “China-Europe Investment and Innovation Cooperation” and participated in the Panel Discussion.
China-Europe Business Leaders Cooperation Forum
Sodexo Group launched its digital and innovation transformation in 2015, with Sodexo China being the first country to launch this strategy. With digital and innovation transformation, Sodexo China has enhanced its service capability, developed its digital solutions on catering and facilities management to upgrade traditional services. This has enhanced the efficiency for our clients and optimized consumers’ experiences. In 2018, Sodexo invited China AI technologies to present at the Viva Technology Show in Paris, held its Open Innovation Day to further encourage the growth of its digital ecosystem.
Martin BODEN, Sodexo China Country President attended the Panel Discussion
Martin BODEN mentioned, “Technology and innovation is really changing people’s daily life. In business sector, for traditional service industry, it seems like a challenge.For Sodexo however, it is a welcoming one, since it promotes the opportunity to simplify, enhance and reinvent Quality of Life to enable our employees to be more efficient, demonstrate more value for our clients, and offer new services with differentiated experiences for our consumers.”

domain: economics


text:
“Drown the Snake”
About this Project:
This project is an ARG (Alternate Reality Game), that lets the player go through 3 different people's lives experiencing misogyny.
The story addresses body image and the negative effects people can have on other people's perceptions of their bodies. It was created on Twine, so the players can click through the different stories, each choice with a unique ending.
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Feedback from the Judges:
Claire is the Creative Director for the IBM Security X-Force Cyber Range. She works with clients to fine tune their incident response planning to a cyber crisis. Claire is a digital storyteller with experience working in video game design, app design, UX, graphic design, and video storytelling.
Taiyaba Ali is as an Associate of Financial Planning & Analysis supporting the Marketing divisions within Vanguard. She is passionate about technological improvements to create change, and using data to create a story. Throughout the roles she has held, she has been able to use data to drive process improvements, a joy which has inspires her to help others use digital innovation as a tool. She has a degree in Accounting from the University of Richmond.
Jonah Brucker-Cohen is an artist and Associate Professor at Lehman College. He received his Ph.D. from Trinity College Dublin and his artwork has been exhibited at venues such as SFMOMA, Canadian Museum of Contemporary Art, MOMA, ICA London, Whitney Museum of American Art, Palais du Tokyo, Tate Modern, Ars Electronica, Transmediale, and more. Two of his artworks are included in the permanent collection of the Whitney Museum of American Art. His writing has appeared in publications such as WIRED and Make and his Scrapyard Challenge workshops have been held in over 15 countries on 5 continents.
A gif that represents what I love the most about my job
A gif that represents my career path so far
Types of work that I do
AI & Machine Learning, Data Projects, Engineering
I am passionate about doing work that relates to
Digital Citizenship, Education/Schools, Social Justice
The best piece of career advice I've ever received
Don't be afraid to take risks.
I am Steffi Gogoi, a UX / Product Designer. Currently, I am working as a Senior UX Designer at ADP. I graduated with a master’s in Human-Computer Interaction from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis. I have had a penchant for art since childhood. What began as pencil sketches, canvases, portraits, writing, craftwork, and dance went on to become an interest in design, technology, and manner of communication that came with it, shaping me along the way.
Moreover, Kudos to the team for coming up with a great representation of how educating people's perceptions of their bodies can help in eradicating the mental trauma people go through.
Thank you for a record-breaking 14th anniversary event! Comments are officially closed until next year.

domain: artistic


text:
Here's the diy I tackled today, a coffee ground mud scrub! If only I could send the smell of this incredibly easy recipe through your monitor you'd be in heaven like me. I used brown sugar instead of white sugar (as you can see in my photo). This scrub is said to tighten the skin and help with the fading of certain scars, try it for yourself, I know I'm ready!
P.S. It really does look like mud huh?

domain: hobby


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Sure Gary Megson has made some good signings with the backing of Milan ‘the Saviour’ Mandaric – but far from enough.
I always think it’s good to have all the signings made close to the start of pre-season so the squad has plenty of time to gel before the season begins.
Wednesday have so far signed Swindon midfield David Prutton and last season’s on loan defender Rob Jones.
Next week looks like being a busy one with all out of contact players having to decide their fate by 30th June.
For Wednesday this means trio James O’Connor, Jermaine Johnson and Lewis Buxton need to get a wriggle on and decide whether they want to stay at Hillsborough.
I think James O’Connor could be easily replaced, while Lewis Buxton would be good to keep hold of.
I would be sad to see Jermaine Johnson leave. With his pace he can frighten any opposition and turn a game on its head in a flash. If Megson can get him playing at the same level for 90 minutes then he will be one of the best players in the league.
As the talks with Neil Mellor continue to drag on and on... and on, Megson is apparently in search for at least another if the Wednesdayite fails to sign for the Owls.
He definitely needs another forward even more so after releasing Paul Heffernan last week. I’m sorry to say, but I’m not sad to see him leave. He was never really given the chance to prove himself and quickly fell out of favour when Megson was appointed. High on Megson’s shopping list is highly-rated Ipswich Town striker Jason Scotland.
Also saying goodbye to S6 this week was midfielder Darren ‘Harry’ Potter. I was surprised to see he made over 100 appearances for the Owls. A solid midfielder but someone I think we can replace.
Hopefully by the next time I write my next words of wisdom we’ll have a squad we can all be proud of.
Up the Owls,


text:
Maria Burwell, editor of "Fodor's New York City 2009," answered your questions on the Big Apple.
Maria Burwell: Ah, New York! What can compare to its electric energy, iconic landmarks, and cinematic streets? Just try to stop yourself from humming Frank Sinatra while walking through midtown on your first visit! But keeping up with the ever-changing hot new restaurants and hip museum openings is challenging, even for locals. Thankfully, New Yorkers are spoiled for choice, which means if you're pointed in the right direction, you can expect the best of everything: the best steakhouses, the best musicals, the best boutique shopping.
As editor of Fodor's New York City 2009, I'm here to help. Let's get to the good stuff...
Birmingham, Ala.: My husband and I are taking our 14-year-old daughter for a 3-night visit (her first) to NYC. We'll arrive at LaGuardia at 10 am. Our hotel (70 Park Ave) will store our bags till check-in, so where do you suggest we have brunch or lunch? What do you recommend that we'll have time to do before a 7 p.m. show on March 18? Should we start with a major tourist attraction or a museum? We'll have two full days and evenings to cram in as much as we can of sightseeing, museums, shopping, and good food. That leaves most of Good Friday for last-chance visits before our 10 p.m. departure. Please share your ideas on how to give our young teen a taste of New York without breaking the budget.
Maria Burwell: New York is terrific family fun, and at fourteen, your daughter can really appreciate all the pop culture and glitz New York offers. Your hotel is in the East 30's, so a good spot to hit for a simple, filling lunch could be the Turkish Kitchen: puffy, fresh breads, tangy hummus, and piles of grilled lamb. If it happens to be warm (a rare occasion in March) head to the Shake Shack in the middle of Madison Square Park. There you'll find some of the best burgers, fries, and heavenly thick milkshakes in NYC, all served outside. After lunch, you can run up to Rockefeller Center (in the 40's) and check out the home of the Today Show and 30 Rock. If your daughter is a budding fashionista, keep running uptown on 5th Avenue to window shop all the top designer stores: Saks, Henri Bendel (featured in a Gossip Girl episode), Prada, Bergdorf, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany's. You'll also see Trump Tower and the Plaza Hotel if you walk to 58th. Cut over on 57th to cruise past Chanel, Burberry, hit Barney's (on Madison), walk over to Bloomingdales (on Lexington), and finish at Dylan's Candy Bar on Third Avenue (run by the daughter of Ralph Lauren) where you can cop a huge sugar buzz just inhaling the chocolate-laced air and fortify yourself for a night of Broadway. All of this is free, aside from any Candyland splurge your treat yourself to at the end.
If she's not a fashion plate—and you'd rather do less walking—take her downtown after lunch to the Lower East Side. Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum that documents the daily life of NYC's early immigrant families, and then swing by Il Laboratorio del Gelato AKA "The Gelato Laboratory" to grab a scoop of some of the richest, most buttery gelato before settling in for Broadway.
Lancaster, Pa.: Hi, this is Dave from Lancaster, PA. My fiance and I are sushi fanatics, and we were wondering where are some of the best spots for sushi in New York City.
Maria Burwell: Sushi-lovers, rejoice! New York is a bona fide sushi capital. Top sushi isn't a budget pursuit, but rest assured you won't be disappointed. Kuruma Zushi is crazy expensive, but they're known for thoughtfully prepared sushi and sashimi. For something more affordable, try Sushi of Gari that ranges from the usual rolls to Japanese Yellowtail. Sushi Yasuda also gets top marks for a beautiful selection with fish delivered daily from Japan. Can't beat that authenticity!
Seattle, Wash.: Where is the best place to have Easter Brunch in New York for two single gals in their 30's? (That we can still get a reservation for! Seems most places have already booked up.) Thanks! Erika
Maria Burwell: Erika, New York makes a great girls getaway! (There's a reason Sex and the City was filmed here¿) It sounds like you've got a fun trip planned. As for Easter brunch, if you're looking for something traditional, Sarabeth's is a popular choice as is Five Points (unfortunately, this was booked up for Easter). Truthfully, I think you should hit a place that doesn't take reservations, like Blue Ribbon Bakery (35 Downing Street) and go on the early side. New Yorkers love their lazy Sundays, and most brunch locations don't get slammed until noon. Camp out at eleven, and I'm betting you'll get a table first thing. Another idea: do a soul food brunch in Harlem. It's certainly a classic NYC experience. Amy Ruth's and Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too have great stick-to-your-ribs brunch. (Again, reservations not accepted so get there early and you'll be set.)
Cleveland, Ohio: We're planning a 3 day family trip to NYC in March. Besides the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Bldg., and the Natural History Museum, what are some additional sightseeing ideas for the kids (age 8 & 6)? Matt
Maria Burwell: Matt, consider the Big Apple your kids' oversized playground. There's enough family fun to keep kids in this age group busy for three months. On top of what you've mentioned I'd recommend:
—Rockefeller Center. Aside from seeing the facade of the Radio City Music Hall, you can tour the NBC studios, skate in the ice rink, indulge in the stores (hello, Maison du Chocolat!), and go to the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller's observation deck ). It's a great vantage point to view the NYC skyline and get a bird's-eye view of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler, etcetera.
—The New York Fire Museum. Sadly, you can't climb around on a fire truck, but your kids can get up close with all the sliding poles and candy-apple red trucks that make fire-fighting such a fascinating occupation.
—The Sony Wonder Lab. A free interactive tour through cutting-edge technology featuring twinkling fiber optic lights, audio recordings, and screenings of popular movies.
—The Lower East Side Tenement Museum. This is a great doable museum for kids. The tenements capture what life was like for early immigrant families in New York, and the family programs illustrate the very real conditions kids lived and worked under.
If you're willing to go into the outer boroughs, there are even more great attractions:
—The Museum of the Moving Image (in Queens). Take your kids here to play with sound editing equipment, make their own stop animation movie, or play with their video games. Hands-on fun in the best way.
—The Bronx Zoo. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! If your kids like animals, they'll be really happy here.
Norristown, Pa.: I'm coming to New York for a 2pm show at the August Wilson theatre. How can I get there from Penn Station? How long will it take? Can I walk the distance?
Maria Burwell: You could walk it, but it would be a loooong walk. (About 20 blocks.) I'd suggest taking the subway. Take the 1 train uptown from 34th Street Penn Station, get off at 50th Street, and you'll be a block away! (If you need more subway directions, check out hopstop.com.)
Melbourne, Fla.: My 8-year-old daughter and I will be making our first trip to New York in late July. We read about The Cloisters in one of her Magic Treehouse books and now we HAVE to see the unicorn tapestries! Can you recommend something else to see or do, or somewhere to eat while we're up in that area? Also, in addition to From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, is there other fiction we can read to get her excited about NYC? Thanks!
Maria Burwell: What a great question! Take a look at the suggestions I made above for Matt for other activities. As for the Cloisters themselves, I highly recommend you take a picnic up there and enjoy it on the grounds. It should be beautiful weather in late July. Swing by the Time Warner Center before you continue north and pick up snacks from either the Bouchon Bakery (terrific French macaroons!) or the local Whole Foods. Or, for an authentic NYC experience, grab some bagels at H&H on the Westside. If you wanted to try to group a few more activities into the day, I'd say you could jump off at the Columbia campus area to explore that or even poke around Harlem on your way back.
As for New York based children's books, I recommend the first Kiki Strike book. It's entirely based in New York and has an imaginative plot about a group of renegade girl scouts that discover an underground city below Chinatown. It'll certainly make her want to play urban explorer!
Brookfield, Mo.: We're a couple in our mid-50's. We'll be leaving Kansas City for New York on 6/2/08 & returning on 6/7/08. We're both afficianados of anything historical or literary & love just seeing the architecture of a new place. I was in NYC for a few days in 1987 & adored the energy & diversity. My husband has never been there, so he wants to see the famous sites—The Statue & Ellis Island, the Empire State & Flatiron buildings, etc. We'd also like to see a Broadway show. We're staying across the Hudson in Weehawken, near the ferry; so we'll have to go into the city each morning & stay for the day. Any tips for other, lesser-known things to do? Our ideas of a vacation is to start early & go nonstop, and come home exhausted, so we need plenty of ideas! Thanks so very much, Denise
Maria Burwell: Hi, Denise! I always love hearing about visitors that want to discover the history and architecture of New York City. First let me encourage you to follow in the footsteps of New York's literati. Go visit the peaceful square around Gramercy Park. The garden is enclosed, but in June you'll be able to admire the lush green oasis that is rimmed with buildings dating to the 1800's. Nos., 3 and 4 belonged to the founder of Harper Publishing House. No. 38 was the home of John Steinbeck, and you can tour No. 15, the National Arts Club. Keep strolling downtown on Broadway and you'll pass The Strand, a New York institution for used books that is a beacon drawing booklovers from near and far. You could spend half a day poking through the stacks. If you continue south, you'll hit Washington Mews, a rare cobble-stoned street that looks like it was leftover from Henry James's era. You'll also hit Washington Square Park, a great mix of classic architecture and vibrant modern street life. I also suggest you leave Manhattan altogether. Follow writers like Truman Capote and Norman Mailer and flee Manhattan for Brooklyn Heights. (Take the 2, 3 train to Clark St. or the A, C to High St.) Here you can walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade with postcard-perfect views of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. You can also stroll among the houses that are so stunning, they were declared New York's first historic district. Definitely worth discovering!
New York City, N.Y.: Where is the best place to shop for womens apparel at great bargain prices? Also, where's an affordable place to hotel to stay for 1 to 2 nights? Thanks
Maria Burwell: Century 21 in lower Manhattan has a cult following for delivering dozens of designer goods at marked down prices. You'll have to do some digging to find the keepers, but it's a saving grace for New Yorkers whose taste for the good life reaches beyond their paycheck. Another spot to hunt for discounted Prada is Find Outlet in NoLita. Also check online for sample sales. Barney's New York has a sample sale that makes shopping a competitive sport.
As for affordable accommodations, New York has a shortage. Good budget options include the Pod Hotel and the Larchmont Hotel. If you don't mind sacrificing color-coordinated decor, La Quinta Inn has some of the most affordable rates in Manhattan (below $200).
Huntington Woods, Mich.: Hi Maria- I (50 yr old mom) am taking my 15 year old (musical theater loving) daughter to NY May 23-25 because she "has" to see Spring Awakening. She has been to NY once before to see Wicked and some of the major sites (Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Tenement Museum, Chinatown, Times Sq.,NBC-Today Show crowd). That time we stayed at the Marriott across from Ground Zero- not a fabulous location but it was ok.
I'd like a better location this time. I am fine with small or quirky places- trying to stay under $300/night. Also looking for things that would be special fun for musical theater kind of teenager. We have the show tickets (Friday night) but haven't booked our tickets yet. Ideas for hotel, fun, food? Thanks in advance
Maria Burwell: Sounds like you have a future Broadway diva on your hands! First, let's talk lodging. Under $300 a night, you could stay at the Pod Hotel. The rooms are teeny-tiny, but ultra hip and with cool extras, like iPod docks, that your fifteen-year-old might appreciate! Another idea is to stay at Hotel 41, again, the rooms are small, but you'll have DVD players and Aveda bath products. Both of these are more or less in Midtown, closer to all the attractions there. Your best bet might be to stay at the Casablanca Hotel. It's right next to Time Square and even comes with a complimentary breakfast.
Aside from the tour I recommended above for a fourteen-year-old fashionista, you could take your theater-loving teen to the Ziegfeld movie theater. This place really ups the bling ratio, and you'll feel like wearing opera-length gloves to the concession stand. (No worries, jeans are just fine here.) You can also take her outside of Broadway for a bit of Off- and Off-Off-Broadway productions. In Brooklyn, BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) has brilliant theater with actors like the great Cate Blanchett and chorographers like Mark Morris. Or you can check out Fuerzabruta at the Daryl Roth Theater.
If you go to the Daryl Roth Theater, eat at some of the hip places around Union Square. The Stand on 12th Street offers up some mean burgers with artisanal milkshakes, and Republic (on Union Square's Westside) has budget Asian noodles and fried wontons.
Houston, Tex.: I understand there is a way to get tickets to go directly to the front of the line of the Empire State Building without waiting in line. How do you do that? Thank you!
Maria Burwell: Well, buying tickets online (at esbnyc.com) will allow you to skip the first long line for purchasing tickets. Just be aware that tickets are non-refundable, which means if it's a rainy or hazy day, you just have to live with it!
Silver Spring, Md. : I am planning on visiting NYC for a day trip to get some bargain womens winter clothes. Where do you suggest I go to find these clothes at great clearance prices? Thanks
Maria Burwell: If you're looking for budget designer clothes, see my post on Century 21. You could also try Loehmann's and Daffy's.
Ellenwood, Ga.: Need a hotel room two nights, 2 days, March 15, 16, Times square area. Whats going on that weekend?
Maria Burwell: Want a budget hotel? Check out the Casablanca mentioned in my post above. If you can afford to splash out a bit on luxurious accommodations, the W Hotel in Time Square lays it on cashmere-thick with sleek, space-age rooms and a glamorous sushi bar.
If you're staying until the following Monday, you'll be able to catch the famous St. Patrick's Day Parade. The weekend before is full of all sorts of related revelry, including several pub crawls, like the one that takes place in the Seaport area. But you can also hop into several Irish pubs around town to enjoy the celebration informally.
New London, Conn.: I am traveling to New York City with 4 girl scouts who are in their freshman year of high school. We are planning on going from 6/7-6/8 this summer. This is the girls last year in scouts and they want this to be a great trip. We are planning on going to a show and staying overnight. I am looking for suggestions for somewhat affordable suite type lodging for 6, a good dinner spot for teenage girls and another activity that they may enjoy. Also, if you have any suggestions on discounted show tickets that would be great.
Maria Burwell: Take a look at the itineraries I've described above for 14 and 15 year old girls. As for accommodations, you could take a look at the suites for the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel New York. They're inexpensive compared to most Manhattan rates, but it is over on the Eastside. Still, you'll be in Midtown (somewhat close to Grand Central Station). You could also look at the Gershwin Hotel. Definitely inexpensive. It could use renovations, but the cheerful riot of colors each wall is painted and the funky Andy Warhol-esque vibe it gives makes up for it.
As for discounted shows, if you're willing to be flexible, you can go to the TKTS booth at the Marriot Marques Hotel (W 46th Street in Time Square). Here you can buy tickets for performances that same day at 25% to 50% off. You have to choose from available titles, but they usually have a wide selection. A quick glance on the Web site www.tdf.org shows the tickets that were available last week, including the Tony Award-winner Spring Awakening, which would be my first choice!
Milwaukee, Wis.: We are traveling to NYC for All-Star week, July 12-16, 2008. I have been researching hotels, and have made multiple reservations with establishments of various price points and locations. The one dilemna we are facing is whether to stay in Times Square (and face the noise issue at night), or venture up toward Central Park area. Most hotels "clubs" have suspended or artificially their points rewards for that week ( IE Marriot raised the rewards bar for a free night from 30,000 to 70,000points for the Courtyard establishment). As well, virtually all hotels have a per person limit of three in a room, except for the Double Tree Guest Suites in Times Square. What is your opinion on Times Square versus the 53rd Street area? Also, we are seeking wonderful restaurants in this same vicinity (48th-57th Streets, Lexington, Park, Broadway) that give a range of menu choices without busting the budget.
Maria Burwell: Sounds like you've done your homework! Like most New Yorkers, unless I have out of town visitors, I tend to avoid Time Square. It's bright, loud, and always full of people—which is exactly why it's so fascinating. There's no other place in NYC that says "Big City" quite so clearly. But personally, when I'm ready to crash after a long day, I want a place that's a refuge from all the hustle and bustle! I'd choose the 53rd Street area. It's also closer to the park, which on nice days in July will make for ideal picnic excursions.
As for food, there are plenty of places to eat around there that won't stretch your plastic: Try Mint on 50th for delicious, fresh Indian food. P.J. Clarke's on 55th, in an old school New York establishment, serves up burgers, fried oysters, and comforting shepherd's pie. Go over to the Westside at 44th Street to Hallo Berlin for wildly cheap German bratwurst, beet, and fried potatoes that will top you off for another round of walking.
Williamston, N.C.: I am taking my daughters to New York on March 14-16. We have tickets for The Little Mermaid and Wicked. My girls are 20 and 27. I am looking for a great place for lunch in Soho area on Friday and somewhere special for lunch on Sat. Thank you for your help.
Maria Burwell: Venture a little east of SoHo and stroll into the hip streets of NoLita. Unlike the chain stores in SoHo that you'll see back home (J. Crew, M.A.C., etc.) the boutiques in NoLita are one of a kind. Places like Me + Ro for Asian inspired earrings or Resurrection for vintage Pucci prints, will be entirely new to your daughters. Here, on the corner of Elizabeth and Prince St., you can get a terrific lunch at Cafe Habana, serving up Cuban Sandwiches that are, as they say in Spanish, "la muerte" without spending much moolah. You'll also get a peek at the locals in this youthful Never-never-land of a neighborhood. Chances are you'll be sitting next to a model, actor, or model/actor.
If you want to treat your girls to a fancy brunch with all the French fixings, take them to Balthazar (also near SoHo on Spring St.). If you keep it simple and stick to sour cream hazelnut waffles (and resist the other more pricy options), you can actually eat here without raiding your savings.
Columbus, Ohio: I am planning on being in NYC the weekend the Pope will be in town (have had my theater tickets long before I knew was was going to be there.). Any advice on how I can get a nice hotel room in the Times Square area without paying a fortune? I am finding that that weekend is higher priced than normal. Thanks.
Maria Burwell: Try the Casablanca Hotel. But as I've mentioned, Time Square doesn't have to be your only option. I'd also look at the Pod hotel.
Allentown, Pa.: I'm looking for a kid-friendly restaurant for pre-theater Saturday dinner. Thanks
Maria Burwell: For this, I'd say hit Carmine's on W 44th Street. Not only is it in the Time Square area and family-friendly, it's also flat-out delicious. Huge portions of linguine with clam sauce or rigatoni will keep you full long after intermission!
Brookfield, Conn.: Is parking readily available at the Red Hook cruise terminal and is there a fee?
Maria Burwell: Yes, there's parking, and yes, there's a fee. It's $6 for short term parking and $20 for 24 hours.
Rochester, Ind.: My husband is taking me to Manhattan for Mother's Day and we are having difficulty finding reasonably priced rooms that are safe, comfortable, clean and if not in the midtown or Times Square area, a place close to public transportation. I am aghast at the prices of hotels; my last trip to NYC was less than a year ago and before that we have visited often: once or twice a year most years for the last 45 years. Can you help? We are in our early 70s but don't act like it; we enjoy travel adventures and are comfortable practically everywhere in the world on our own alone. Flying in Thurs. May 8th and out Mon. May 12th.
Maria Burwell: That's a lovely Mother's Day gift! Well, it's hard to find a hotel for under $300 in New York, as I'm sure you know. But as I mentioned previously, establishments that are less expensive include Hotel 41, Hotel Metro, the Pod Hotel, or Casablanca Hotel. If you're willing to do some walking, consider the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel New York. They're all the way over on the Eastside, but definitely comfortable, safe, and inexpensive. Often the earlier you book, the less expensive the room. (May is a popular month, so book early!)
Alexandria, Va.: Can you recommend some good places for "fun" when on a short business trip that only leaves a small window in evening hours for dinner/drinks/entertainment? My colleagues and I are staying near Central Park in late March.
Maria Burwell: Why not do a little sightseeing while sipping cocktails? At the legendary Rainbow Room, you'll get a stunning view from the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center. Or the Pen-Top Bar & Terrace on the 23rd floor of the Peninsula Hotel is another top tier bar. If that sounds a little too buttoned up, consider some rock n' roll karaoke at Arlene's Grocery, a jazz show at the Blue Note, or just a laid back late night cup of Chai at the indie-tastic cafe Teany on the Lower East Side.
San Antonio, Texas: My husband and I are taking our almost 16 year old daughter to New York City for 5 days and 4 nights in late July. What type of activities would you recommend? None of us has been to the city for pleasure--I have been once for a very short business trip. We are very comfortable travelers and enjoy a variety of activities! Thank you, Melissa
Maria Burwell: Hi, Melissa! Aside from what I've already recommended for teenage girls, I'd also hit the MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art). Too often families focus on the Met, but the MoMA has a contemporary cool that teenagers can relate to (not to mention a really fun gift shop). If you want a museum that's a bit more bite-sized, try the Neue Galerie. The building alone here is a delight with its "grand old New York" palatial foyer. And on the ground floor, Cafe Sabarsky serves rich dark Viennese coffee and authentic Sacher torte in an environment straight out of a European film. (One caveat: the artists on display here—Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, to name two—have some racy subject matter. If that makes you uncomfortable, stick with a day at the Tenement Museum.)
Another idea: take your daughter around the East Village. Walk down St. Marks Place (for the obligatory tour of booth-after-booth of neon sunglasses, sarcastic T-shirts, and studded jewelry), poke around in St. Marks Bookshop (art books galore), and walk down 7th Street to Caracas Arepa Bar for cheap pockets of golden fried cornmeal with cheese, beans, and shredded beef. Heaven!
New York, N.Y.: Hi Maria:
My English boyfriend is coming over to NYC for Easter, and I want to arrange an Easter Brunch for us and several friends. I'd like to give him an "NYC experience," (he has a fascination with Central Park, which we have yet to "do.") but I also refuse to subject my die-hard NYC friends to anything too, too touristy. So 'Tavern on the Green' is out! Is there a middle ground you could recommend? Thanks, Alycia from the West Village
Maria Burwell: I hear you! Consider doing the soul food brunch I recommended above. It's an authentic NYC experience without being cheesy. Or you can leave Manhattan entirely and head for Brooklyn. Dine at Applewood, the farmer-centric foodie haven, and then explore the tourist free neighborhood of Park Slope and stroll around Prospect Park. (If your boyfriend has a fascination with Central Park, let him know that the same architect did Prospect Park—and considered it his crowning achievement!)
Tampa, Fla.: We have only one day May 21 to see the installations of Chinese Artist Guo-Qiang at the Guggenheim in NY. We need a place to stay the night of the 21 and 22 nearby. Can you recommend a B&B or inexpensive hotel within walking distance?
Maria Burwell: Oh, his work is incredible—certainly worth the trip to NYC!
Well the decor is a little funky, and the rooms can be a touch small, but I think the Franklin will meet your needs. It's on 87th and Lex. (the Guggenheim is on 88th and 5th Avenue) so you really could just roll out of bed and stroll over and, most importantly, it doesn't have stratospheric prices!
Lebanon, Ind.: My adult son and I are registered as contestants in the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament to be held at the Brooklyn Bridge Marriott, February 29-March 2, 2008. We will fly into LaGuardia on the evening of February 28. Neither of us has been to NYC before. Since the tournament activities do not begin until the evening of Feb 29, we will have most of that day free. Your suggestions, please. Specifically, would the Gray Lines "New York Minute" tour be a good choice? Joe
Maria Burwell: Hi, Joe! The Brooklyn Bridge Marriott is near the terrific neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Brooklyn Bridge). Stroll down to the waterfront and you can admire the beautiful view of the New York skyline with the boats passing by. On a clear day, it's stunning. Grab ice cream at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory right on the pier, its high-quality, thick-n-creamy scoops lure many a sweet-lover over the East River. Or you can walk down Water Street to Jacques Torres Chocolate for a real Willie Wonka moment. You're also steps away from what is (debatably) the best NYC pizza—Grimaldi's Pizzeria (on Old Fulton St.).
As for the Gray Line tour, if you haven't been to NYC before, this is a good way to get your bearings. They cover the basic "lay of the land" and will help you and your son get familiar with the different neighborhoods and what each of them have to offer. I would just caution that much of this is simply driving through the neighborhoods, and in winter, there won't be much street life. It's cold out there!
Los Angeles, Calif.: I hear a lot about Brooklyn being a good place to visit. Any idea where I could get a good burger while I'm out there?
Maria Burwell: I've got to love a question that is not only about Brooklyn but about burgers! Several people swear DuMont, in Williamsburg, serves up the top borough burger. They now have a new location, DuMont Burger, just focused on this popular dish and its sides.
Richmond, Va.: I'm bringing my ballet-loving 13-year old niece to NYC this spring, and I'm not sure what to buy tickets for. Which do you think is better, NYC Ballet or ABT? And is the Joyce worthwhile? Anything else you'd recommend for her?
Maria Burwell: New York is also the capital of dance, among other performing arts, and ballet is no exception. The New York City Ballet (AKA NYCB) has a home at Lincoln Center and holds its season through the winter and spring. In summer, they move away and the touring American Ballet Theatre (AKA ABT) comes to Lincoln Center, so we're never without world-class dance. (They also do a fall season at City Center). Basically, if you're here in the early spring, you'll be able to catch NYCB, and if you're here in the late spring, you can catch ABT.
Also, for those of you that like to get Nutcracker tickets (only for NYCB), grab them *early* in the summer and enjoy this classic story ballet!
Maria Burwell: And that's about all the time we have to chat! Thank you for all your questions! I'm sorry I couldn't answer them all. I hope you all enjoy kicking your heels up in New York, New York! Be sure to check out the Fodor's New York City 2008 guide, a great resource for your trip, and keep an eye out for the new 2009 guide, hitting the shelves in August!

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Ambac Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMBC)‘s stock had its “buy” rating reiterated by analysts at BTIG Research in a research note issued on Saturday, July 22nd. They currently have a $26.00 target price on the financial services provider’s stock. BTIG Research’s price target indicates a potential upside of 43.01% from the stock’s current price.
Separately, MKM Partners raised shares of Ambac Financial Group from a “sell” rating to a “neutral” rating and set a $17.00 price target for the company in a report on Friday, May 12th.
Ambac Financial Group (NASDAQ AMBC) remained flat at $18.18 on Friday. The company had a trading volume of 216,061 shares. The firm’s 50 day moving average price is $18.92 and its 200 day moving average price is $18.91. The stock’s market capitalization is $822.66 million. Ambac Financial Group has a 12-month low of $15.67 and a 12-month high of $27.25.
TRADEMARK VIOLATION NOTICE: This report was posted by Community Financial News and is owned by of Community Financial News. If you are reading this report on another publication, it was illegally copied and reposted in violation of US and international trademark & copyright laws. The original version of this report can be viewed at https://www.com-unik.info/2017/08/19/btig-research-reaffirms-buy-rating-for-ambac-financial-group-inc-nasdaqambc-updated-updated-updated.html.
A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. EJF Capital LLC increased its stake in shares of Ambac Financial Group by 71.0% in the first quarter. EJF Capital LLC now owns 1,261,376 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $23,790,000 after buying an additional 523,550 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Ambac Financial Group by 107.3% in the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 867,025 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $16,352,000 after buying an additional 448,694 shares during the last quarter. Evermore Global Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Ambac Financial Group by 34.5% in the second quarter. Evermore Global Advisors LLC now owns 964,587 shares of the financial services provider’s stock valued at $16,736,000 after buying an additional 247,634 shares during the last quarter. Sound Point Capital Management LP purchased a new stake in shares of Ambac Financial Group during the second quarter valued at about $3,567,000. Finally, Seizert Capital Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Ambac Financial Group during the first quarter valued at about $2,657,000. 72.02% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
About Ambac Financial Group
Ambac Financial Group, Inc, a financial services holding company, provides financial guarantees and other financial services to clients in both the public and private sectors worldwide. It operates through two segments, Financial Guarantee and Financial Services. The Financial Guarantee segment provides financial guarantees, including insurance policies and credit derivative contracts for public finance, structured finance, and international obligations.
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