bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term, physiological dose of prednisolone treatment alters vitamin B6 metabolism in vivo
Authors: Chang Hsin‐Yueh , Chiang En‐Pei Isabel
Published: June 2021

Earlier studies reported that B6 metabolic enzymes were reduced in adrenalectomized rats that could be restored by short‐term injection of very high dose glucocorticoids. Prednisolone (PSL) is a glucocorticoid commonly used for long‐term treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. In the present study we investigated the impacts of long‐term physiological dose of PSL on vitamin B6 metabolism in vivo. Male C57BL/6J mice received either PBS (control), 0.1 mg PSL/kg (low dose), or 1 mg PSL/kg (medium dose) i.p. once every other day for up to 7 months, to mimic the regimen of PSL in humans with chronic disorders. PSL did not alter steady state B6 vitamers or B6 metabolic enzymes in erythrocytes. However, PSL (1mg/kg) significantly increased plasma pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP), pyridoxal (PL) and 4‐pyridoxic acid (PA) levels (P<0.05). Furthermore, PSL increased PL level in the muscle in a dose dependent manner. PSL significantly induced hepatic pyridoxal kinase (PDXK) and pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate oxidase activity (PMPO), but reduced hepatic pyridoxamine 5′‐phosphate (PMP) concentrations. Our study suggests that long‐term low/medium dose PSL can induce hepatic PDXK and PMPO activities that may convert hepatic PMP to PLP, leading to increased PL in the circulation and promote mobilization of B6 vitamers among tissues. ( This project was supported by Dept of Health in Taiwan DOH 97‐TD‐D‐113‐97011)

Grant Funding Source: ASN
Blood Mineral levels of Mexican Adults, Results of a National probabilistic survey
Authors: Levy Teresa Shamah , Villalpando Salvador , Mejía‐Rodríguez Fabiola
Published: June 2021

Objective

to evaluate the prevalence of some serum minerals in Mexican population.

Methods

For this analysis were extracted from the data base of the Mexican National Nutrition Survey, 2006. Households stratified by clusters were randomly selected from the National Household Sampling Frame. Venous blood samples were drawn and the micro minerals, ferritin, TfR concentrations were measured in 5,056 women (weighted 32,795,990 subjects) and 2,143 men (weighted 27,126,621 subjects). Deficiencies were categorized as Ferritin (<12 mcg/L), Zinc (<75 mcg/L), Cupper (<70 mcg/dL), and TfR (>6 mcg/L). Relationship of each nutrient (Ferritin, Zinc and Cupper only in women) was evaluated with participation in food assistance programs (FAP) using logistic regression after adjustment for socioeconomic status level (SEL) and some nutrient associated.

Results

The prevalence of low Ferritin was 19.8%‐W and 3.6%‐M, high TfR 5.5%‐W and 1.4%‐M, low Zinc 23.7%‐W and 17.5%‐M, and Cupper 22.5%W and 25.4%M. Iron deficiency was higher in women with low SEL (p=0.045). Cupper deficiency was negatively associated with dietetic fiber intake (p=0.02), FAP (p=0.05), and age (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Prevalence of mineral deficiency was higher in women than in men, except cupper. Mineral deficiencies are still high in low SEL.
Oral dosing of vitamins K1 and K2 in ovariectomized rats: Effects on bone loss and serum/bone levels
Authors: Moreines Judith , Fu Xueyan , Booth Sarah
Published: June 2021

Vitamin K (VK) exists in multiple forms that share common biochemical structures to support VK‐dependent protein carboxylation. Vitamin K may benefit bone by carboxylating the bone protein, osteocalcin. The unique side chains of the menaquinones (MKn) may further enhance K bone benefits. Despite plausible biological mechanisms, a causal role of vitamin K in bone and differential abilities of MKn and VK1 to benefit bone remains unclear. To assess this, ovariectomized (OVX) rats were randomized to 6 dosing groups of 16/group [Sham OVX (SOVX); OVX; OVX + Bisphosphonate (BP) (100ìg/kg/100 ìg/mL saline sc); OVX + VK1; OVX + MK4; and OVX + MK7] for 12 weeks. Equimolar doses of 107 mg K1/kg, 147 mg MK4/kg, and 201 mg/Kg MK7 were added to vitamin K deficient diets daily. As expected, OVX significantly increased weight and decreased bone strength vs. SOVX (p<0.05). OVX failed to significantly alter serum or bone vitamin K concentrations vs. SOVX. BP significantly increased bone strength and bone mineral density (BMD) vs. OVX (p<0.05). However, VK failed to prevent bone loss. VK1 supplementation significantly increased serum/bone concentrations of VK 1 vs. the concentrations of MK 4 or MK 7 following their supplementation (p<0.05). Unexpectedly, an MK7 epoxide was found in serum, not bone. Further studies evaluating the safety of MK 7 and potential efficacy of other doses of K vitamers are warranted. (Funding: Wyeth)
Urinary chromium loss associated with diabetes is offset by increases in absorption
Authors: Vincent John B. , Rhodes Nicholas R. , McAdory DeAnna , Love Sharifa , Di Bona Kristin R. , Rasco Jane F.
Published: June 2021

The status of Cr as an essential trace element has been seriously challenged. The evidence is ambiguous, not definitive. Yet, Cr administration to diabetic model animals has been shown to result in improvements in insulin resistance and lipid parameters. As urinary Cr excretion is greater in these models than in controls, Cr has been proposed to be conditionally essential. Cr absorption in these models has not been determined; thus, their Cr status is unknown. Consequently, the absorption and distribution of 51Cr from a gavage dose of 51CrCl3 has been determined in Zucker, Zucker obese and ZDF rats. ZDF rats have increased urinary Cr loss as a result of their diabetes; this loss is offset by increased absorption. Obese rats have altered rates of Cr transport and distribution but have similar urinary Cr loss and absorption to controls. Given that dietary Cr is absorbed with ~1% efficiency, suitable Cr exists in the diet to allow for the increases in absorption associated with diabetes. Consequently, supplementing the diet with nutritionally relevant quantities of Cr is not anticipated to have any beneficial effects. Similarly, beneficial effects from supra‐nutritional doses of Cr(III) complexes do not arise from alleviation of Cr deficiency and must arise from pharmacological effects of high dose Cr(III). This project was supported by NRI Grant 2009‐35200‐05020 from the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture.
Dietary intakes of vitamin A and E of Korean adults living in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kim Young‐Nam , Jang Jin Young , Roh Hyun Hee , Cho Youn‐Ok
Published: June 2021

To determine dietary intakes of vitamin A, carotenoids, vitamin E, and tocopherols of Korean adults by gender, 3 consecutive 24‐h food recalls were collected from 108 healthy adults (75 females, 33 males), aged 20–59 y, living in Seoul, Korea. The daily vitamin A intake (mean ± SD) was 893.7 ± 401.3 μg retinol equivalents (RE) or 539.0 ± 233.1 retinol activity equivalents (RAE). Provitamin A carotenoid intakes were 468.8 ± 315.3 μg/d alpha‐carotene, 3817 ± 2184 μg/d beta‐carotene, and 410.9 ± 304.1 μg/d beta‐cryptoxanthin. The daily vitamin E intake was 17.64 ± 14.22 mg alpha‐tocopherol equivalents (ATE), and alpha‐tocopherol was 5.72 ± 5.77 mg/d. There was no significant difference in vitamin A and carotenoid intakes between females and males. The vitamin E and gamma‐tocopherol intakes of males were significantly higher than those of females (p<0.001). Approximately 11% of the subjects consumed <Korean Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for vitamin A given as μg RE, while 69% consumed <vitamin A EARs for US/Canadians given as μg RAE. Six percent of subjects consumed <Korean Adequate Intakes for vitamin E given as mg ATE, but 98% had <vitamin E EARs for US/Canadians given as mg alpha‐tocopherol. Therefore, the majority of the subjects met the Korean EARs for vitamin A and AIs for vitamin E. Supported by 2009 research fund of National Research Foundation of Korea (20090066047).
Iron deficiency in adolescent school girls from Tigray, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mulugeta Afework , Gebre Mehari , Abdelkadir Mahmud , Tsadik Asfaw G. , Yesus Araya G. , Stoecker Barbara J
Published: June 2021

Magnitude and severity of iron deficiency was evaluated in 413 randomly selected adolescent school girls (10–15 y) from Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. Mean (sd) hematocrit (hct) and ferritin levels were 42.9 (3.3) % and 48.4 (25.1) μg/L, respectively. Stunting was common (23.5%) and 27.1% were thin (−2Z) on the basis of BMI. Serum transferrin receptors (sTfR) for the 148 girls with lowest ferritins ranged from 4.5 to 20.5 with mean levels of 8.2 (2.6) mg/L. Mean and median (25th, 75th) for hsCRP were 0.99 (2.4) and 0.4 (0.2, 0.8) mg/L, respectively. The prevalence of anemia in the girls was 7.1% after adjusting hct for elevation (1500–2646 m). Fifty seven (16.2%) of the girls were iron depleted (ferritin < 15μg/L) and 13.7% had low iron stores (ferritin 15–30 μg/L) suggesting that iron deficiency was prevalent in this population. Anthropometric indicators including HAZ (r = 0.16) and MUAC (r = 0.16) correlated (p<0.004) with hct. Girls involved in fire wood collection and agricultural activities had significantly lower hct. The most common parasites were E. histolytica (19.9%) and H. nana (8.6%). However, parasites commonly associated with anemia including hookworm (1.8%), S. mansoni (0.6%) and malaria (0.6%) were rare. Anemia was a public health problem in the adolescents and 30% of the girls were at risk of iron deficiency (ferritin < 30 μg/L). Multifactorial causes of anemia in the adolescent girls needs further investigation. (Supported by: NORAD II, Mekelle Univ, Ethiopia & Oklahoma State Univ, USA).
Capillary vs venous blood: delayed measurement of hemoglobin concentrations and hematocrit
Authors: Drammeh Bakary S , Mandava Usha , Zhang Mindy , Schleicher Rosemary L , Pfeiffer Christine M
Published: June 2021

The influence of preanalytical factors on hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and hematocrit (Hct) is important in anemia assessment particularly in field settings where sample handling might be compromised. We collected venous (Vacutainer®) and capillary (2nd, 3rd, 4th drops followed by Microtainer®) blood from 35 adults and measured Hb and Hct using a HemoCue Hb‐201 and Block Scientific Inc. centrifuge, respectively. Blood (Vacutainer and Microtainer) was stored at 10°C for up to 3 days (n=15); Microtainer blood was also stored at −70°C for 4 days (n=32). We calculated mean changes against appropriate comparator groups and performed ANOVA and t‐tests using SAS software (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in mean (±SE) Hb concentrations (g/dL) between Vacutainer (14.4±0.3) and Microtainer (14.2±0.2) blood, nor among 2nd, 3rd and 4th capillary drops (14.7±0.2). We saw significant Hb differences between Microtainer blood and individual drops (p<0.0001). Delays for up to 3 days did not affect Hb and Hct measurements (<2% change) if blood was kept cool. Freezing blood for 4 days did not affect Hb concentrations either (≤2% change). Due to small differences in Hb between capillary drops and Vacutainer or Microtainer blood (<4%), it is preferable to measure capillary blood Hb from the Microtainer. Unexpected delays in testing or accidental freezing of blood do not rule out valid results for anemia assessment.
Saponins from Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis St. Hilaire) leaves inhibit markers of inflammation in vitro through NFκB pathways
Authors: Puangpraphant Sirima , Berhow Mark , de Mejia Elvira Gonzalez
Published: June 2021

Saponins are naturally occurring phytochemicals present in Yerba mate and other plant sources that have been associated with several health benefits. The objective was to extract and partially purify saponins from yerba mate dry leaves and assess their anti‐inflammatory effects on macrophages (RAW 264.7). HPLC and LC/ESI‐MS‐MS were used to identify saponins in chromatographic fractions of methanol extracts. Six fractions A, B, C, D, E, and F, were obtained. Fractions D, E and F had characteristic mate saponin spectra between 800–1200 m/z and major saponins in these fractions were matesaponin 1 [M‐H]− =911and matesaponin 2 [M‐H]− =1057, with minor amounts of matesaponin 3 [M‐H]−=1073, matesaponin 4 [M‐H]− =1219, and matesaponin 5 [M‐H]− =1383. It was determined that dry yerba mate leaves have 10–15 mg total saponins/g, predominately matesaponins 1 and 2. Fractions A, B, and C did not reduce inflammatory markers. Fractions D, E, and F significantly inhibited iNOS (IC35 = 36.3, 29.5, 43.7 μM), PGE2 (IC35 = 23.1, 22.3, 11.7 μM) and COX‐2 (IC35 = 45.7, 32.4, 17.0 μM). Treatments with fraction F (25 μM) resulted in the reduction of LPS‐induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐κB (NFκB) subunits p50 (49.8%) and p65 (49.0%) indicating that mate saponins inhibit inflammation through NFκB pathways. Chemical structure of saponins influenced the inhibition of inflammatory markers in vitro.

Research Board, U Illinois

Grant Funding Source: Research Board, University of Illinois
Improved prep‐scale isolation of glucosinolates from cruciferous vegetables using a novel stationary phase
Authors: Scholl Chris , Barnes David , Hanlon Paul
Published: June 2021

Interest in glucosinolate (GLS) metabolites, such as isothiocyanates (ITCs), calls for a fast and efficient prep scale isolation method for glucosinolates. Raphasatin, the ITC metabolite of glucoraphasatin the most common GLS in radishes, is unstable in an aqueous environment. The degradation product(s) of raphasatin have been shown to induce detoxification enzymes, a proposed mechanism of chemoprevention. Isolation of the quantity of raphasatin required for the chemical identification of its degradation product(s) requires a preparative liquid chromatography (PLC) method that is able to resolve glucoraphasatin from glucoraphenin, a GLS redox pair which are the most abundant GLSs in radishes. Separation of glucosinolates with a standard C18 stationary phase was compared with separation with a novel stationary phase, Agilent Zorbax Bonus‐RP, a C14 alkyl chain with an embedded amide group. The Bonus‐RP significantly improved resolution of glucoraphasatin and glucoraphenin as well as GLSs present in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables.
Strawberry extract attenuates oxidative stress‐induced impaired insulin signaling in vitro in Human Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Sandhya Krishnankutty , Tadapaneni Ravi , Banaszewski Katie , Cappozzo Jack , Edirisinghe Indika , Burton‐Freeman Britt
Published: June 2021

Insulin resistance (IR) plays a central role in the development of metabolic syndrome and is a major cardiovascular risk factor. We recently reported that consumption of a strawberry (Str) beverage compared to placebo reduced markers of oxidative stress and inflammation and reduced the insulin requirement to achieve glucose homeostasis in response to a high fat/carbohydrate meal in overweight, relatively healthy people. Therefore, we hypothesized that polyphenolic derived from Str restore impaired oxidative stress‐mediated insulin signaling through its antioxidant properties. Studies were undertaken in human skeletal muscle cells. Oxidative stress was generated using H2O2 (50, 100 μM) for different time periods (2–12hr) along with and without Str extracts (0.1–1mg/ml). Cell viability was not effected by any of the above treatments. At the end of treatments, cells were treated with insulin (100 nM) for 10 min. Activation of Insulin Receptor Substrate (IRS‐1) using different ser/tyr phosphorylation sites were studied using immunoblotting method. Str extracts reduced the oxidative stress‐induced increased levels of inhibitory phosphorylation (ser‐307), and increased levels of tyr phosphorylation on IRS‐1. These data provide mechanistic evidence by which Str polyphenols promote postprandial insulin sensitivity and suggest a role for Str intake in reducing IR and the risk for cardiometabolic disease.
Molecular structures of citrus polymethoxylated flavonoids (PMFs) determine their inhibitory effect on apoB secretion in HepG2 cells
Authors: Vermeer Mario A. , Lin Yuguang , Bos Wil , van Buren Leo , Schuurbiers Eric , Miret‐Catalan Silvia , Trautwein Elke A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Citrus PMFs, such as nobiletin and tangeretin, have been shown to modulate cholesterol (CH) homeostasis in vitro and in vivo, although the underlying mechanism of action has not yet been fully elucidated. We explored the structure‐activity relationship of PMFs regarding apoB secretion.

Methods

HepG2 cells were incubated with 20 natural and synthetic PMFs (0–100 μM), while lovastatin (3 μM) and mevalonate (10 mM) were used as controls to modulate cellular CH‐metabolism. Apolipoprotein B (apoB) secretion was determined by using ELISA and 14C‐acetate and 14C‐glycerol were used to monitor cellular CH and triglyceride (TG) synthesis, respectively. LDL‐receptor expression was measured by ELISA and its activity by monitoring fluorescent‐labelled LDL uptake.

Results

Citrus PMFs and their natural 4′‐demethylated metabolites most strongly reduced apoB secretion (IC50 10–60μM). The most active PMFs have a fully methoxylated A‐ring (see structure), while the methoxylation of the B‐ring seemed less important for apoB‐secretion. In addition, PMFs with a fully methoxylated A‐ring more strongly inhibited TG‐ and CH‐synthesis compared to other citrus flavonoids. PMFs did not up‐regulate LDL‐receptor expression or activity.

Conclusion

Citrus PMFs (nobiletin, tangeretin and their metabolites) with a fully methoxylated Aring have the strongest inhibitory effect on apoB‐secretion in HepG2 cells.
The major green tea polyphenol, epigallocatechin gallate, inhibits 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 activity in rodent adipocytes
Authors: Kobayashi Yoshiharu , Wakabayashi Midori , Yamaguchi Yuko , Kiyonaga Daisuke , Tagawa Noriko
Published: June 2021

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea is thought to be useful as an anti‐obesity compound since it has been shown to reduce diet‐induced obesity in mice, rats and humans. On the other hand, 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD1) converts inactive glucocorticoid (GC) to active GC in the liver and adipose tissue. Activated GC plays an important role in the pathogenesis of central obesity. This study investigated the effect of EGCG on 11β‐HSD1 activity in rodent adipose tissue. Microsome (Mc) containing 11β‐HSD1 was prepared from rat mesenteric adipose depots. Then 11β‐HSD1 activity in Mc was determined in MOPS buffer containing 1 μM 11‐dehydrocorticosterone and varying concentrations of EGCG (NADPH‐regenerating system). After the addition of Mc, the reactants were incubated at 37°C for 60 min. Corticosterone produced in the medium was measured by HPLC. Significant inhibition of 11β‐HSD1 by EGCG (1–40 μM) was observed. Kinetic study demonstrated that EGCG acted as a non‐competitive inhibitor of 11β‐HSD1 with an IC50 of 2.5 μM. The inhibition of 11β‐HSD1 appeared within 60 min in a cell‐free system. These findings suggest that the most likely mechanism of 11β‐HSD1 inhibition by EGCG is via direct interaction between EGCG and 11β‐HSD1 enzyme, rather than via transcriptional pathway. The anti‐obesity effects of EGCG are attributed, at least in part, to the inhibition of 11β‐HSD1 activity in adipocytes.
PFKFB3/iPFK2 links nutrient metabolism and overnutrition‐associated adipocyte inflammatory response through controlling oxidative stress
Authors: Guo Xin , Li Honggui , Wu Chaodong
Published: June 2021

Overnutrition‐associated adipose inflammation is a common cause of many metabolic diseases such as diabetes and atherosclerosis. However, precisely how overnutrition disturbs nutrient metabolism to stimulate the adipocyte inflammatory response remains unknown. The objective of this study is to elucidate the molecular link between nutrient metabolism and the adipocyte inflammatory response. In adipocytes, PFKFB3/iPFK2 is a master regulator of nutrient metabolism. Using cultured 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, we showed that knockdown of PFKFB3/iPFK2 caused a decrease in the rate of glucose incorporation into lipid. Additionally, knockdown of PFKFB3/iPFK2 increased inflammatory signaling through JNK and NFκB p65 and enhanced the production of proinflammatory cytokines. These effects were accompanied by an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under both basal and palmitate‐stimulated conditions, indicating increased oxidative stress. When treated with etomoxir, an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation, the production of ROS in PFKFB3/iPFK2‐knockdown adipocytes was lowered down to the levels comparable with those brought about by N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, a compound that suppresses most pathways for ROS production. Together, these data suggest that PFKFB3/iPFK2 links nutrient metabolism and overnutrition‐associated adipocyte inflammatory response by controlling oxidative stress.

Grant Funding Source: none
Nutrient restriction and hypoxia independently decrease placental cell proliferation and differentially regulate Igf2, Mtd and Phlda 2 gene expression in vitro
Authors: Brannon Patsy M , Jones Sara
Published: June 2021

Maternal undernutrition impairs placental and fetal growth resulting in IUGR and developmental programming, but its mechanism and interaction with hypoxia are unknown. Our objectives were to determine the independent and interactive regulation of placental growth by undernutrition and hypoxia and establish a cell culture model of maternal undernutrition. HTR‐8/SVneo human trophoblast cells were cultured in RPMI media and 1.25%–5% FBS with 1–20% oxygen. 75% reduction (NR) of media glucose, essential amino acids, Gln, and vitamins maximally reduced growth. 1% oxygen (Hx) maximally decreased growth and increased Glut3 mRNA 7 fold, whereas 20% oxygen (Nx) maximized growth and minimized Glut 3 mRNA. In a 2×2 factorial experiment at 72 h, both NR and Hx independently reduced growth and Ki67 mRNA levels (p<0.001; 2‐way ANOVA) and increased VEGF and Glut3 mRNA levels (p<0.001). NR independently decreased (p<0.001), but Hx independently increased (p<001), Igf2 mRNA levels. Hx, but not NR, increased Mtd mRNA levels and secreted hCG (p<0.001). NR and Hx only interacted to regulate Phlda2 mRNA such that Hx increased its level in NR, but Nx decreased it (p<0.01). NR and Hx each independently regulated placental cell proliferation, but differentially regulated Igf2, Mtd and Phlda2 mRNA levels, suggesting that each acts in part through common pathways and in part through divergent pathways to regulate placental growth.
Effects of Maternal Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Supplementation on Hepatic Lipid Metabolism of Fructose Fed Dams and Their Progeny
Authors: Ching Hiu Ha , Li Edmund Tsze Shing
Published: June 2021

Bitter melon (BM) reduces blood lipids, slows tissue fat accumulation and improves insulin sensitivity in rat fed diets high in fat or fructose (F). We hypothesized that progeny of fructose fed dams will benefit from maternal BM supplementation. Virgin female Sprague‐Dawley rats were given control (C), fructose (F: 60%) or BM supplemented (1% BM juice) F diet (FBM) for 8‐wk before mating, throughout gestation and lactation. Weaned male pups were fed either C or F for 11wk to generate C/C, F/C, FBM/C, F/F, FBM/F diet groups (dam/pup). FBM dams had lower serum cholesterol (CHL); liver weight and triglyceride (TG) level (F vs FBM, n=11, p < 0.002). Litter size and birth weight of pups were similar. At weaning (wk3), pups of FBM dams had lower serum TG than those of F dams (p < 0.005). At wk 11, hepatic TG and CHL of FBM/C rats were lower than that of F/C rats (n=9, p < 0.001). Although all F‐fed young rats had higher liver weight, for those of FBM dams, they had elevated hepatic fatty acid binding protein 1, carnitine palmitoyltransferase la and very long chain acyl‐Coenzyme A dehydrogenase mRNA expression (FBM/F vs F/F, n=9, p < 0.05), suggesting a mechanistic setup to reduce hepatic fat accumulation. Hence, maternal BM supplementation leads to favorable changes in lipid handling of progeny. These could be direct actions of bioactive compounds in BM or consequence of improved metabolic controls of dams. (Supported by a HKU grant)

Grant Funding Source: The University of Hong Kong
Association between obesity and molecular and biochemical parameters related with diabetes in children from Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Vergara‐Jimenez Marcela , Arias‐Gastélum Mayra , Castro‐Acosta Monica , Hernandez‐Morga Joane , Magaña‐Gomez Javier
Published: June 2021

Obesity is considered as one of the main risk factors that predispose to chronic diseases, such as diabetes, which has been significantly increasing in children. The objective was to analyze the association between obesity and hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia (HG), insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) and the polymorphisms of the gene encoding the potassium inwardly‐rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 11 (KCNJ11) in 120 children from Sinaloa, Mexico. Two groups (60 obese and 60 non‐obese children, according to the Body Mass Index for age and gender) were compared. Triglycerides, insulin and glucose concentrations were measured by spectrophotometry. HOMA‐IR was calculated using the standard equation. The genotype of the polymorphism was determined by PCR‐RFLP. HG was higher in non‐obese children when compared to the obese group (13.3% and 6.7%, respectively), even so, insulin was significantly higher in obese children (16.01 vs. 6.58 mU/L, p<0.05) as well as HOMA‐RI (21.7% obese and 5% non‐obese, p<0.05). Although no significant differences for KCNJ11 polymorphisms were observed, it was possible to appreciate an increased presence of the heterozygote and variant homozygote genotype in the obese group. A positive association between obesity and different parameters associated with diabetes in children was demonstrated which can significantly compromise their health and life quality.
The role of TNFα in circadian rhythmic responses and regulation of metabolic regulator SIRT1 in liver
Authors: Menio Jade , Hines Ian N , Wheeler Michael D
Published: June 2021

A feedback loop exist between the expression of circadian control genes and regulators of metabolic and energy homeostasis, involving the histone deacetylase SIRT1. We show here that TNFα regulates the expression of SIRT1 in liver. Thus, we hypothesize that a relationship exists between hepatic immune response and circadian control genes through the expression of SIRT1. For these experiments C57Bl6/J control mice and mice lacking TNFα receptor (TNFR1−/−) were fasted for 24 hours. Under fed conditions, wild type mice have low SIRT1 expression in liver but SIRT mRNA is increaded 4‐fold after fasting. In TNFR1−/− mice, SIRT1 expression is increased nearly 10‐fold under basal conditions as well as after fasting, suggesting that TNF suppresses SIRT expression. TNFR1−/− mice greater running wheel activity, consume nearly 30% more chow, and exhibit higher respiratory exchange rate than the wild type mice. Importantly, TNFR1−/− mice have altered hepatic circadian Bmal and Per2 expression compared to wild type mice. Most importantly, when the mice were housed in constant darkness, TNFR1−/− mice exhibited greater circadian phase‐shift compared to wild type mice, indicating a faster circadian period in TNFR1−/− mice. In conclusion, these data suggest that TNFα is an important regulator of hepatic circadian gene expression and circadian behavior and may involve the suppression of SIRT.

Grant Funding Source: Internal
Disturbances in Cardiac Glutathione Augments Cardiac Lipotoxicity in Mice with Diet‐Induced Obesity
Authors: Ghosh Sanjoy , Sulistyoningrum Dian , Glier Melissa B , Devlin Angela M
Published: June 2021

Cardiac lipid accumulation is a key feature of obesity‐related cardiomyopathy. The role of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) in cardiolipotoxicity is unclear. Cystathionine‐β‐synthase(Cbs) provides 50% of total cysteine required for GSH biosynthesis in the liver. We studied the effect of diet‐induced obesity in mice heterozygous for targeted deletion of Cbs(+/−) and C57BL6/J (+/+) mice fed a high fat (60% energy) diet (HF) or a control diet (C) from weaning for 12 weeks. HF+/− and HF+/+ mice had higher body weight (P<0.001) and adipose tissue accumulation (P<0.001) than C+/− and C+/+ mice. Total GSH and reduced GSH levels in heart were lower in +/− mice (P<0.01) than in +/+ mice and where further reduced in +/− mice fed the HF diet. This was accompanied by higher levels of triglyceride and higher levels of nitrotyrosine in heart form HF+/− mice. Expression of genes (mRNA) related to fatty acid oxidation (Acox1, Ppara) and mitochondrial function (Pgc1a, Nrf1, Rela) were higher (P<0.01) in heart from +/− mice than in +/+ mice. Feeding the HF diet had no effect on gene expression in the +/+ mice but reduced levels of mRNA in +/− mice. This study demonstrates a potential role between Cbs, heart GSH levels, and triglyceride accumulation in heart during diet‐induced obesity.
Alterations of adipose tissue phenotype and gene expression in olanzapine treated rats
Authors: Victoriano Montserrat , de Beaurepaire Renaud , Naour Nadia , Guerre‐Millo Michele , Quignard‐Boulange Annie , Huneau Jean‐François , Mathé Véronique , Tomé Daniel , Hermier Dominique
Published: June 2021

Contrary to typical antipsychotics (AP) such as haloperidol (HA), certain atypical antipsychotic (AAP), such as olanzapine (OL) induce a weight gain associated with increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT). A specific increase in VAT was reported in a model of chronically OL‐treated rats, without hyperphagia or increased body weight (Victoriano et al., 2009). This suggests a direct effect of AAP on AT phenotype and on gene expression of proteins involved in metabolic or secretory functions.

Thus, male rats were given, for 6 wks, diets containing OL (2mg/kg), HA (1mg/kg) or the vehicle (control group, CO) (n=6). The epididymal AT proportion was the highest in OL rats (1.63% vs 1.44% in CO and HA rats), without adipocyte hypertrophy. The % of CD68+ cells (markers of macrophage infiltration) was 2.8 in OL rats, 0.07 in HA rats and 0 in CO rats. The expression of genes controlling lipid metabolism was not modified. Among adipokines, only gene expression of TNFα; was modified, its ARNm being twice higher in OL than in CO and HA rats, and indicating a local low grade inflammation.

This suggests that a local action of AAP on the AT results in the recruitment of macrophages. The increase expression of TNFα; by these macrophages may contribute to impair insulin sensitivity, resulting in the metabolic complications of AAP treatment. The occurrence of this inflammatory status has now to be investigated in human patients.
Detection of gamma synuclein protein in adipocytes
Authors: Narayanan Vijaya
Published: June 2021

Gamma synuclein is a small protein that has been studied extensively in neuronal cells and in many cancers. It is highly expressed in hyperplastic tissues like breast and ovarian cancers. Its activity is thought to be in the promotion of cellular growth and proliferation. A recent report by Oort et al (2008) showed that gamma synuclein mRNA levels were detected in adipocytes during the process of maturation. We used 3T3‐L1 cells to monitor the protein levels of gamma synuclein. 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes were allowed to differentiate using a standard insulin/dexamethasone/3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine protocol. Cells were collected at various time points post‐differentiation and gamma synuclein protein was detected by western blot analysis. Appearance of peak protein levels was noted around Day 6–8 post‐differentiation and protein expression was sustained until at least Day 16. Aggregation, a characteristic shared by other members of the synuclein family, was also detected while blotting for gamma synuclein in these extracts. The sustained expression of the protein in mature adipocytes signifies a role for the protein in the differentiation process and makes the protein a possible candidate for dysregulation in obesity. This research was funded by Florida International University.
Assessing the role of potatoes and glycemic index in body weight management and glucose tolerance
Authors: Randolph Jody Michelle , Cheema Simrin , Kappagoda C. Tissa , Edirisinghe Indika , Burton‐Freeman Britt
Published: June 2021

Potatoes role in a weight loss paradigm are questioned due to their designation as a high‐glycemic index (HGI) food. Hypothesizing that energy intake control is more important for weight loss than glycemic index, we expect no difference in body weight (BW) changes between low glycemic index (LGI) vs HGI hypocaloric diets. We also expect metabolic and body compositional effects to follow weight loss changes vs diet type. In this randomized control trial, overweight (BMI 29.0 ± 3.8) adult (40.9 ± 15.5 yrs) men and women participate in 1 of 3 potato‐containing dietary interventions for 12 weeks. Two diets require a daily reduction of 500 kcals; subjects are counseled to follow diets comprised of LGI (n=30) or HGI (n=30) foods. The 3rd diet, a control group (CD, n=30), is advised on general healthy eating patterns. Endpoints compare results from 0 and 12 weeks: BW, body composition [via dual‐energy x‐ray absorptometry (DEXA)], and glucose tolerance [via oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)]. Preliminary data indicates no significant treatment effect on body weight or composition, glucose tolerance, or insulin response after 12 weeks LGI vs HGI diets. Triglycerides (TG) after 12 weeks were higher in HGI vs LGI group (110 ± 8.5 mg/dL vs 83.6 ± 9.8 mg/dL, p=0.04), suggesting that regular consumption of a HGI diet, even for BW loss, promotes increased TG formation or decreased TG clearance, independent of potato intake. US Potato Board.
A gel‐based proteomic analysis of green tea polyphenols effects on ovariectomized rats
Authors: Shao Changxia , Chen Lixia , Lu Chuanwen , Shen Chwan‐Li , Gao Weimin
Published: June 2021

Our recent study has demonstrated the protective action of green tea polyphenols (GTP) against bone loss in rats with ovariectomy through their antioxidant activities to scavenge reactive oxygen species. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the alterations of liver protein profiles in estrogen‐deficient middle‐aged ovariectomized rats after GTP treatment by a gel‐based proteomic approach, which could lead to understand the mechanisms of GTP in promoting bone health. Liver samples were obtained from 14‐month‐old female ovariectomized rats treated with no GTP (OVX) or 0.5% GTP (OVX+GTP) in drinking water for 16 weeks (n=10/group). Two‐dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry, was used to compare the liver protein profiles of pooled samples from OVX and OVX+GTP. Liver proteins from OVX and OVX+GTP were labeled in duplicate by reversing the fluorescent dyes. Among approximately 800 reproducible protein spots detected, the level of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) was 2‐fold higher in OVX+GTP versus OVX, while the level of catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) was 1.5‐fold lower in OVX+GTP versus OVX. The changes of SOD1 and COMT in individual liver sample were confirmed by Western blot. As a result, our data provide evidences for the benefits of GTP on bone health through the antioxidant role in increasing SOD1 and the estrogen‐like effect in decreasing COMT.
Molecular cloning and characterization of the human lactoferrin receptor gene promoter
Authors: Jiang Rulan , Lonnerdal Bo
Published: June 2021

Lactoferrin (Lf) is an iron‐binding protein in human milk. Multiple functions of Lf are postulated to be mediated by a Lf receptor (LfR). We have demonstrated that the Lf receptor (LfR) plays an important role in Lf endocytosis by Caco‐2 cells via a clathrin‐mediated pathway, which focused our interest to investigate the transcriptional regulation of LfR. In the present study, we cloned and characterized the promoter from a 3100 bp 5′‐flanking region of the human LfR gene. The transcription start site was identified as 298 bp upstream of the translation start site (+1) by 5′ RLM‐RACE. The promoter region contains neither a TATA box nor a CCAAT box. A series of deletions of 5′‐flanking sequence were cloned into the promoter‐less luciferase reporter vector and transiently transfected into Caco‐2 cells. The transfection assays demonstrated a sequence of −419/+1 sufficient for eliciting maximal promoter activity and the region −507/−729 exhibited inhibitory effects on reporter gene expression in transiently transfected Caco‐2 cells. The −419/+1 fragment contains a Sp1 binding site, which was confirmed by electrophoretic mobility supershift assay. Mutations of this binding site decreased Sp1 binding affinity in gel shift assays. In conclusion, the isolated LfR gene promoter contains downstream core promoter elements and the Sp1 binding site plays a critical role in transcriptional regulation of the LfR gene.
Acute and chronic toxicity of D‐allose in rats
Authors: Matsuo Tatsuhiro , Iga Yusuke , Nakamichi Kazunori , Shirai Yoko
Published: June 2021

D‐Allose is one of the aldohexose present in small quantities in nature. Recently, D‐allose was developed a new method to produce enzymatically on a large scale, making it possible to conduct animal experiments. In this study, we examined the acute and chronic toxicity of D‐allose in rats. In the acute toxicity test, seven groups of four male Wistar rats (5 week old) were orally given D‐allose in doses of 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 25 g/kg. One rat receiving 17 g/kg, one rat receiving 19 g/kg, two rats receiving 21 g/kg, three rats receiving 23 g/kg and four rats receiving 25 g/kg of D‐allose died within 2 days after administration. The calculated LD50 value was 20.5 g/kg as determined by the Behrens‐Karber method. In the chronic toxicity test, four groups of eight male Wistar rats (3 week old) were fed diets containing 0, 0.3, 1.0 and 3.0% D‐allose (control, A0.3, A1 and A3 groups) for 6 months. Body weight gain, food intake and food efficiency were significantly lower in the A3 group than in the other groups. Final body, lungs, pancreas, soleus, gastrocnemius and plantaris muscle weights were significantly lower in the A3 group than in the other groups. On the other hand, no difference was found among the four groups in most serum chemical test results. In conclusion, these results suggest that D‐allose is not a toxic substance in rats.
The effects of cooking, cooling and reheating on the Glycemic Index depends on potato variety
Authors: Kinnear Tara S , Wolever Thomas
Published: June 2021

Potatoes are a nutrient dense, low calorie food, but are often perceived as unhealthy in part because they are thought to have a high Glycemic Index (GI). High GI diets are associated with increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The GI is a measure of the blood glucose raising potential of carbohydrate containing foods. We previously found that eating cooled or reheated potatoes reduces their GI by 30–40%. The aim of this study was to see if cooling and reheating had the same effect on the GI in different potato varieties. Thus, we determined the GI of four different types of potato, each of which was boiled and served in 3 ways: freshly cooked, cooled and served cold, or cooled and reheated. ANOVA showed, no main effect of potato variety, but a significant main effect of cooling with cold potatoes having a lower GI than freshly cooked or reheated potatoes (P<0.05). However, there was also a significant cooking*variety interaction, with cooling having a significantly greater effect in one variety than two of the others (P<0.05). We conclude that the effect of cooling and reheating on the GI of boiled potatoes differs in different varieties. Further work is required to determine the physiochemical properties of the starch which may explain these effects. Funded by the Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada‐ Agriculture Bioproducts Innovation Program (ABIP).
Menstrual cycle affects postprandial glucose responses to a hyper‐lipidic meal in young adult women
Authors: Silva Iris Lima , Torres Alexandre Guedes
Published: June 2021

Our aim was to investigate in young adult women the influence of the menstrual cycle phase on post‐prandial glycemia and lipemia after a hyper‐lipidic meal. We recruited 14 volunteers not taking oral contraceptives, which were studied during the follicular (FP; 3rd to 9th days) and the luteal phases (LP; 17th to 25th days). We collected blood samples after an overnight fast at baseline and after the intake of a standardized meal consisting of a high fat milk‐shake, two slices of white bread and 80g of white American cheese, with a total caloric value of 870 kcal, of which 62% were from lipids and 29% from carbohydrates. After the meal, blood samples were taken with 60 min intervals for up to six hours. We did not find significant differences between the FP and the LP for triglyceridemia and glycemia in the basal or the postprandial period. We observed a positive correlation between fasting plasma triglyceridemia and the area under the curve (AUC) of postprandial triglyceridemia during both the FP (r= 0.60, P< 0.05) and the LP (r= 0.80, P< 0.001). In contrast, only in the FP there was a negative correlation (r= −0.78, P< 0.0005) between fasting glycemia and the AUC of postprandial glycemia. We conclude that the influence of fasting glycemia on the postprandial clearance of blood glucose seems to be affected by the menstrual cycle phase.
Hydration, nutrition, and energy expenditure of female collegiate gymnasts at Southern Utah University
Authors: Schmidt Matthew Christopher , Sorenson Savanna E , Smailes Alyssa R , Snelling Daneile J
Published: June 2021

Good nutrition and hydration of athletes is vital to injury prevention, performance, and physical health. The purpose of this study was to examine hydration, energy expenditure, and nutritional status of collegiate female gymnasts. Fifteen gymnasts, mean age 19.3 ± 1.1 years, participated. Seven‐day food records were collected. Urine specific gravity (USG) was determined for five practices and one meet. Body Media® armbands were used to measure caloric needs. The armband continuously monitored movement, heat flow, skin temperature, ambient temperature, and galvanic skin response. Armband data revealed that on average gymnasts burned 613.4 more calories on practice days compared to days with no scheduled practices. Gymnasts had a low caloric intake (66% of recommended), which resulted in low macronutrient and micronutrient consumption. Diet analysis indicated that nutrients of concern were water, vitamin D, vitamin E, omega‐3 fatty acids, magnesium, and potassium. Paired t‐test revealed a significant difference (p< 0.001) in the mean USGs before and after practices as well as the meet. USG indicated athletes came to practices minimally dehydrated and left significantly dehydrated. This population may benefit from nutrition education and implementation of strategies to help them meet their nutrient recommendations.
A low body mass index reduces Human Milk Oligosaccharide concentration in breast milk of Bangladeshi women
Authors: Nissan Caroline , Sultana Rokeya , El‐Arifeen Shams , Raqib Rubhana , Bode Lars
Published: June 2021

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO), complex glycans highly abundant in human milk, are thought to protect the breast‐fed infant from infectious diseases and diarrhea. For example, the concentration of alpha1‐2‐fucosylated HMO in human milk is inversely correlated to the incidence of infant diarrhea. Diarrhea poses a particular threat to infants in developing countries, where mothers are also often malnourished. Here, we studied whether a low body mass index (BMI) in mothers had any effect on the HMO concentration in their milk. As part of the MINIMat project, milk samples from mothers in rural Bangladesh with a BMI of either 14–18 (n=8) or 24–28 (n=8) were collected at 8 weeks post‐partum. All milk samples were spiked with raffinose as internal standard. Oligosaccharides were isolated as described before, tagged with 2‐aminobenzamide, and analyzed by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Milk from mothers with a BMI of 14–18 contained 42.4% less total HMO than milk from mothers with a BMI of 24–28 (P<0.001), which may put the infant at higher risk of developing infectious diseases and diarrhea. Most intriguingly, 50% of all Bangladeshi samples were from Secretor‐negative mothers (lacking alpha1–2‐fucosylated HMO), which exceeds the 23% average reported for American/European mothers. This study is the first to show a correlation between the mother's nutritional status and the oligosaccharide concentration in her milk.
Relationship of early infant feeding (breast vs. formula) and fruit and vegetable variety in dietary intake of 2–3 year olds
Authors: Strong LaCrystal Ann , Strong Erin , West Debbie , Brouwer Rebecca , Ostbye Truls , Lovelady Cheryl
Published: June 2021

The theory of breastmilk flavor exposure impacting later dietary variety in children was examined. Dietary intakes of 2–3 year olds of overweight (BMI ≥ 25) mothers were analyzed. Mothers reported how the child was fed for the first 6 months. Participants were placed into either fully formula‐fed group (FF, n=63) or fully breastfed group (BF, n=76). Two‐day 24‐hr dietary recalls were conducted. The number (variety) of different fruits and vegetables (F&V) were counted. Reappearing foods were not counted again. Maternal BMI, income, education, age, child's BMI z‐score, and feeding group were entered into regression models to predict fruit, vegetable, and total F&V variety. BF was higher educated (P=0.007) and had a lower BMI (BF 30.8 ± 4.6; FF 32.9 ± 6.3 kg/m2; P=0.02). Variety of fruit was significantly higher in the BF (FF 2.7 ± 1.5, BF 3.3 ± 1.5; P=0.03). Neither vegetable (FF 2.8 ± 1.6; BF 2.4 ± 1.6), nor total F&V (FF 5.5 ± 2.4, BF 5.6 ± 2.4), varieties were significantly different between groups. Maternal BMI and child's BMI z‐score were significant negative predictors of fruit variety. No variable predicted vegetable variety. Only child's BMI z‐score negatively predicted total F&V variety (P=0.03). Results of this study do not support the theory that exposure to flavors transmitted in breastmilk within the first 6 m of life affect later F&V variety. Research funded by NIDDK R01 DK075439‐01; R01‐DK064986.
A Mediterranean diet intervention rich in walnuts among lactating women: study design and baseline characteristics
Authors: Stendell‐Hollis Nicole R , Thompson Patricia , Laudermilk Monica , Winzerling Joy , Daines Michael , Thomson Cynthia
Published: June 2021

We hypothesize that adoption of a MED diet rich in walnuts will be associated with favorable modulation of fatty acid profiles and thus a decrease in maternal and breast milk‐specific biomarkers of inflammation during the lactational period. A randomized, controlled diet intervention in lactating women comparing the MED diet with walnuts to the USDA's MyPyramid diet for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding was initiated to ascertain differential changes in inflammatory response measured in maternal serum/plasma and breast milk. Secondary outcomes include effects of diet assignment on maternal body weight and composition. To date, 135 lactating women have been screened for eligibility; 56 have been consented and enrolled. The 56 women enrolled into the study are, on average, 29.6 ± 4.7 years of age, overweight (BMI: 28.0 ± 4.7 kg/m2), primarily Caucasian, and have some college education (85.3%). 29.4% are supplementing with infant formula. This is the first clinical intervention trial, to our knowledge, to assess the effects of a MED diet supplemented with walnuts on changes in fatty acid profiles, biomarkers of inflammation, as well as change in body weight and composition during lactation. If the MED diet is associated with a significant reduction in inflammation, this would represent a modifiable dietary behavior to reduce inflammation during lactation. This research was funded by the California Walnut Commission.