bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of fructose intake during gestation alters gene expression of obesity and inflammatory markers in adipose tissue
Authors: Patel Nikhil , Lineker Chris , Dunichand‐Hoedl Abha , Symonds Michael , Budge Helen , Bell Rhonda
Published: June 2021

Fructose (FR) consumption is a major contributor to obesity and chronic inflammation but its effects have not been widely studied in pregnancy. Pregnancy is a state of systemic inflammation, and increased expression of inflammatory markers in pregnancy has been associated with pre‐eclampsia and other vascular complications; many of these markers may arise from adipose tissue. The study investigated the effect of FR consumption during gestation and its effect on obesity and inflammatory markers (leptin, mass and obesity‐associated (FTO) gene and nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐kB) gene) Female rats received either 10% FR solution (n=18) or tap water (CNTL) (n=17) during gestation. Pregnancies were terminated at gestation day 20; adipose tissue was frozen and total RNA extracted for real time PCR analysis. mRNA abundance was performed for the genes encoding leptin, FTO gene and NF‐kB with housekeeping gene 18s. mRNA expression of FTO (FR:1.75( 0.3; CNTL: 1( 0.1; p<0.05), NF‐?B (FR:1.67( 0.2; CNTL: 1( 0.2; p<0.05) and leptin (FR:2.1( 0.5; CNTL: 1( 0.1; p<0.05) were all upregulated with the FR group. Maternal weight exhibited no difference between the FR and CNTL groups even though markers of obesity and inflammation showed enhanced expression. Further research on inflammatory markers is required to examine the state of systemic inflammation present. Funded by NSERC Canada
Anthropometric measures and cognitive performance of mother‐child pairs from Sidama, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Bogale Alemtsehay , Stoecker Barbara J , Kennedy Tay , Hubbs‐Tait Laura , Thomas David , Abebe Yewelsew , Hambidge K Michael
Published: June 2021

Cognitive performance of 100 mothers and their 5 year old children was assessed using Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) and tests from the Kaufman ABC‐II. Anthropometric measurements revealed that maternal BMI ranged from 15.3 to 29.0 with 14% having BMI <18.5. Stunting in children was 29% and 12% were underweight. If mothers had ≥ 5y of education, both mothers and children had significantly higher test results. Scores for mothers and children correlated for both short term memory (r=0.21, p= 0.03) and visual processing indices (r=0.29, p=0.004). Stunted and underweight children had lower short term memory scores than non‐stunted (p=0.0005) and underweight children (p=0.009). Visual processing scores were also lower in stunted (p=0.0001) and under‐weight (p=0.001) children. Child height, weight and age and maternal age and education predicted child visual processing index (R2 = 0.38, p<0.0001). Child height and age, family size and roof type predicted child short term memory index (R2=0.31, p <0.0001). Malnutrition in the community appeared to contribute to low cognitive performance of the subjects. Sustainable methods to alleviate malnutrition are urgently needed. [Supported by NIH R01HD053053 (NICHD & Fogarty International Ctr), Hawassa University, and Oklahoma State University]
Diet, Physical Activity Index, Body Mass Index and C‐reactive Protein of Individuals of African Ancestry
Authors: Davis Errol , Huffman Fatma G.
Published: June 2021

In a cross‐sectional study dietary, physical activity index (PAI), body mass index (BMI) and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) values in 66 Foreign‐born Afro Caribbean (FBAC) living in the US for less than 10 years, 62 US‐born Afro Caribbean American (USBACA) and 61 African American (AA) adults (18–40 years) were studied. The USBACA and AA compared to FBAC participants consumed significantly (p<0.05) more total fat (g) (66.3±41.7 and 73.0±47.8 vs. 52.8±32.3), saturated fat (g) (23.1±14.9 and 24.9±15.8 vs. 18.6±11.5) and cholesterol (mg) (220.4±161.9 and 244.1±155.0 vs. 168.8±114.0). More USBACA and AA compared to FBAC participants played less sports and watched television often/very often. More USBACA and AA compared to FBAC (23.0% and 17.7% vs. 7.6%) were obese, whereas more AA compared to USBACA and FBAC (26.7% vs. 8.8% and 10.5%) had elevated hs‐CRP levels. All groups showed positive relationship between BMI and hs‐CRP. Dietary, PAI, BMI and hs‐CRP differences between different ethnic subgroups of the same racial group were found. Variations in health indicators among different ethnic groups of the same race can help us to develop culturally sensitive programs to improve health outcomes. Funded by a grant from FIU Foundation.
Assessment of Overweight and Obese Older Adults using a Dietary Questionnaire and Biochemical Values
Authors: Cottell Kathryn E , Dorfman Leah R , Straight Chad R , Delmonico Matthew J , Lofgren Ingrid E
Published: June 2021

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in the US. Risk factors include poor diet, elevated TC, LDL‐C, TAG, CRP and low HDL‐C. Evaluation of overall diet is needed to determine one's degree of nutritional risk. The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional risk of subjects using a dietary questionnaire and explore its associations with blood lipid and CRP concentrations. One hundred nine overweight and obese (mean BMI = 33.4 ± 4.3 kg/m2) older men and women (mean age = 68.9 ± 6.2 y) completed the Dietary Screening Tool (DST). Blood lipid and CRP concentrations were obtained after a 12 hour fast and measured via the Cholestech system. Mean DST score was 65.4 ±12.9. Nutritional status of subjects as determined by the DST were not at risk (n=25), possible risk (n=52), and at risk (n=32). Subjects at nutritional risk had mean TC 182.8 ± 40.0 mg/dL, TAG 161.6 ± 83.7 mg/dL, HDL‐C 49.0 ± 16.3 mg/dL, CRP 2.8 ± 1.8 mg/dL, and LDL‐C 102.1 ± 30.6 mg/dL. At risk and possible at risk subjects had significantly lower LDL‐C than the not at risk subjects (p<0.05). Pearson's correlations revealed no significance between the DST with blood lipids or CRP concentrations. Interestingly, subjects not at risk had higher LDL‐C than subjects at risk and at possible risk. More research needs to be conducted to determine if the DST risk classification is associated with known CHD risk factors in an overweight and obese older population.
One‐carbon metabolism in the aged colon after folic acid supplementation
Authors: Zimmerly Ella M , Kim Kyong‐Chol , Jang Hyeran , Choi Sang‐Woon
Published: June 2021

Age and low folate intake have been associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer, but excessive folate intake might increase this risk in the elderly. The polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), a gene whose product determines folate utilization in one‐carbon metabolism, is also associated with the risk of colorectal cancer. In this study we examined changes in one‐carbon metabolism due to aging and folate intake. To mimic folate deplete, replete, and supplemented diets, young and old mice were fed 0, 2, or 8 mg folic acid/kg diet (AIN‐93M) for twenty weeks. In the colonic mucosa we examined relative gene expression of enzymes related to folate and thymidine handling using real time RT‐PCR. While old mice did not show changes, MTHFR expression decreased in young mouse colon with increased folic acid intake (ptrend=0.038). Expression of thymidylate synthase (p=0.031) and deoxythymydylate synthase (p=0.025) was higher in older mice than in young but comparable among different diet groups. Thymidine kinase, dihydrofolate reductase, and serine hydroxymethyl transferase did not demonstrate differences by age or diet. Overall folic acid supplementation did not induce aberrant expression of one‐carbon metabolism genes in the colon of old mice. Supported by the NIH Grant R01 AG25834

Grant Funding Source: NIH
ReishiMax extends the lifespan in an aging model: A preliminary report
Authors: Tan Ningzhi , Zhang Yan , Yang Jieying , Zhao Chunsheng , Zhu Jia‐Shi
Published: June 2021

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) has long been used as a medicinal herb in China for immune enhancement and cancer prevention and adjuvant therapy. ReishiMax (RM), a proprietary extract of Reishi enriched in Reishi triterpenes and polysaccharides showed immune enhancement (enhanced proliferations of macrophages, B, T and NK lymphocytes, increases in serum IgA, IgG, IgM & secretion of IL2 and Interferon, and decreases in IL5 secretion) and inhibition of cancer malignancy (FASEB J 2007, 21:A1100; 2008, 22:1136.2). We further examined the RM's effect in lifespan extension in mice. ICR mice (12 m of age; 25 males & 25 females) were randomized into 4 groups, receiving either rat chaw alone or the forage prior mixed with RM at a dose of 175, 350 or 700 mg/kg. Calorie intake was monitored twice a week and adjusted to match the calorie intake of controls. RM treatment (36 wks so far) showed: (1) no significant differences in body weight and calorie intake among the groups; (2) compared to controls, the 90% survival time extends 20, 56 and 44 days in the 3 RM dose groups, and the 75% survival time extends 21, 70 and 24 days, respectively. Kaplan‐Meier Survivor analysis showed significantly extended lifespan and reduced death risks by RM: p=0.048 (Wk28), p=0.045 (Wk32), p=0.022 (Wk36), with the best survivor curve for the RM 350 mg/kg therapy (equivalent to the human dose). The data thus far indicates that RM extends the lifespan in mice.
LOVAZA® extends median and maximal lifespan than regular fish oil of autoimmune lupus‐prone mice
Authors: Halade Ganesh V , Rahman Md M , Williams Paul J , Barnes Jeffery , Fernandes Gabriel
Published: June 2021

LOVAZA®, containing purified fish oil (FO), is widely prescribed for the treatment of hyperlipidemia, however its efficacy has never been tested in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) prone mice (NZB/NZW) F1 (B/W), in comparison to regular FO. We investigated for the first time, a dose dependent effect of LOVAZA®, compared to placebo and regular FO with standard diet as a control, in a well‐established animal model of human SLE. Weanling B/W female mice were divided into 6 groups fed nutritionally adequate semi purified diet supplemented with LOVAZA® (1% and 4%), placebo (1% and 4%), FO (4%) [18/12:eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] and standard lab chow ad libitum. Proteinuria and anti‐dsDNA antibodies were measured to assess the disease progression. Further, we monitored survival and evaluated inflammatory cytokines including kidney histology. Results showed that LOVAZA®(4%) significantly extends both the median and maximal lifespan of B/W mice than regular FO (4%), placebo (4%) and standard lab chow diet. Additionally, LOVAZA® (4%) also decreased serum anti‐dsDNA antibodies, reduced proteinuria with age, lowered LPS‐stimulated inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐6) produced by splenocytes and reduced nephritis in SLE condition. These data indicate that LOVAZA® (4%), containing purified FO is found more effective in suppressing inflammation and extending lifespan of SLE‐prone B/W mice. Further studies in SLE patients are needed to confirm this observation.

Funding support: 1R01AT004259‐01 from NIH/NCCAM

Grant Funding Source: 1R01AT004259‐01 from NIH/NCCAM
A medical food and phytonutrient supplement improve cardiovascular disease risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome and elevated LDL
Authors: Lerman Robert H , Minich Deanna M , Darland Gary , Lamb Joseph J , Chang Jyh‐Lurn , Hsi Alex , Bland Jeffrey S , Tripp Matthew L
Published: June 2021

As cardiovascular disease risk is increased 4–6 fold in subjects when metabolic syndrome (MetS) and elevated LDL occur concomitantly, we evaluated effects of supplementing a therapeutic lifestyle program with a medical food and specific combination of phytonutrients in subjects with both conditions. We analyzed data from subjects with LDL ≥ 160 mg/dL enrolled in a 12‐week, 2‐arm randomized study of 42 adults with MetS, LDL ≥130 mg/dL, triglyceride (TG) ≥150<400 mg/dL and BMI ≥27 kg/m2. Both control (C) and treatment (T) arms consumed a Mediterranean‐style, low‐glycemic‐load diet and engaged in aerobic exercise. T received a medical food containing soy protein and plant sterols and a supplement containing rho iso‐alpha acids and acacia proanthocyanidins. 24 subjects, 12 in each arm, met subanalysis criterion of LDL≥160 mg/dL. At 12 weeks, weight loss did not differ between arms. However, T exhibited greater improvement than C (P<0.05) in total cholesterol, LDL, non‐HDL cholesterol, cholesterol/HDL, TG/HDL, apolipoprotein (apo) B, apoB/apoA‐1, and homocysteine, total LDL and large HDL particle number. All subjects in T but only 1/3 in C achieved LDL <160 mg/dL and 5 in T and 0 in C had LDL lowered to <130 mg/dL. High risk subjects with MetS and LDL ≥160 mg/dL may benefit from a soy/phytosterol containing medical food and phytonutrient supplemented therapeutic lifestyle program. Supported by MetaProteomics, LLC.
Effect of Dietary Sodium and Potassium Intervention on Blood Glucose
Authors: Bazzano Lydia Angela Louise , Gu Dongfeng , Chen Chung‐Shiuan , Huang Jian‐feng , Chen Jing , Rao Dabeeru , Jaquish Cashell , James Hixson , Duan Xiufang , Chen Ji‐chun , Kelly Tanika , Rice Treva , Hamm L. Lee , Whelton Paul , He Jiang
Published: June 2021

Studies have suggested that a low salt intake may increase blood glucose. We examined blood glucose responses to dietary sodium and potassium interventions among 1,906 GenSalt study participants in rural China. Dietary intervention included a 7‐day low‐salt feeding (51.3 mmol/day), a 7‐day high‐salt feeding (307.8 mmol/day), and a 7‐day high‐salt feeding (307.8 mmol/day) plus potassium supplementation (60 mmol/day). Overnight fasting blood samples were drawn at baseline and at the end of each of the intervention periods. Mean (SE) change from baseline to low salt diet was 3.14 (0.27) mg/dL from the low salt to high salt diet, −4.70 (0.22) mg/dL, and from high salt to high salt plus potassium supplementation, −0.69 (0.22) mg/dL. These results suggest that statistically significant changes in blood glucose may occur during the initiation of a low salt diet. However these changes are small and their clinical significance is unclear. In our study, diets were only implemented for 7 days, thus further studies should be conducted which examine the duration of these changes after a low salt diet is initiated.
The Influence of Long‐Term Essential Amino Acid Supplementation on Measures of Body Composition in Recreationally Active Older Adults
Authors: Dhanani Shaheen , Timmerman Kyle L. , Rasmussen Blake B. , Volpi Elena
Published: June 2021

Aging is associated with loss of muscle mass and bone density. Unlike non essential amino acids, essential amino acids (EAA) stimulate protein synthesis. Preliminary data from our group indicate that short‐term EAA supplementation can improve muscle mass in sedentary elders. However, the effect of long‐term EAA supplementation on body composition in recreationally active older adults is unknown.

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine if supplementation with EAA can improve indices of body composition in older, recreationally active subjects.

We have currently enrolled 12 healthy, recreationally active older (50–70 years) subjects who have been randomly assigned to receive either 15g of EAA (n= 6, age= 61±3, BMI= 25.3±0.8) or an isonitrogenous, isocaloric placebo (alanine; n=6, age= 63±4, BMI= 25.4±1.2) daily for one year, while maintaining their usual physical activity level. At baseline and every three months body composition was measured by DEXA.

Preliminary data from six subjects indicate that bone mineral content tended to increase in the EAA group after one year of treatment (Baseline: 2019.1±104.6 grams, 12 months: 2094.5±116.7 grams, P=0.06), while other body composition parameters do not yet display significant changes.

In conclusion, these preliminary data suggest that 12 months of supplementation with essential amino acids may improve bone density in recreationally active, older adults.

Supported by NIA P30 AG024832 and R01 AG030070
First‐pass disappearance of cysteine in healthy adolescents
Authors: Hsu Jean W , Wu Manhong , Esangbedo Ivie D , Stephens Mark , Heird William C , Castillo Leticia
Published: June 2021

Cysteine (Cys), a dispensable amino acid serves as a precursor for some important substrates, such as glutathione and taurine. There are no data on Cys first‐pass disappearance in healthy children receiving cysteine by oral (PO) or intravenous (IV) route. We studied 10 healthy adolescents (age 15.8±1.8 y; wt 56.1±8.4 kg), receiving a 2‐day dietary period providing adequate energy and protein intakes. On day 3, subjects received a dual, primed, 6h, continuous tracer infusion of L‐13C‐ and L‐2H2‐Cys by the IV and PO routes randomly, while consuming small isocaloric and isonitrogenous meals every 30 min. The following day the route of tracer administration was reversed. The first‐pass disappearance of 13C‐ and 2H2‐Cys labels was 40.9±9.2% and 45.4±7.6 %, respectively, and there's no tracer effect (P = 0.11). Cys was oxidized to a greater extent by the PO route in contrast to the IV route (28 vs. 19%; P < 0.01). True Cys flux determined by plasma ApoB‐100 enrichment was significantly higher when the tracer was given IV (P < 0.001), suggesting that the splanchnic region is a major site of whole body cysteine utilization during the fed state. NIH DK‐62363, T32 HD‐007445, Ajinomoto 3‐ARP; USDA/ARS 25337387
Effect of Dietary Protein Manipulation on Measures of Protein Kinetics in Elderly Men: The Hormonal Regulators of Muscle and Metabolism in Aging (HORMA) Study
Authors: Castaneda‐Sceppa Carmen , Yarasheski Kevin E , He Jiaxiu , Martinez Carmen , Binder Ellen , Bhasin Shalender , Wang Ying , Azen Stanley , Sattler Fred R
Published: June 2021

We examined the effect of dietary protein manipulation (DPM: habitual vs. experimental) on fasting protein kinetics (PK) in 112 community‐dwelling healthy 65–90 yr old men. 13C2‐Leu infusion and muscle sampling were used to quantify PK; whole‐body proteolysis per lean body mass (WBP), muscle protein fractional synthetic rate and muscle proteolytic enzyme activities; chymotrypsin, trypsin, and peptidylglutamyl‐peptide. Mean habitual intake assessed by 3‐day food diaries was the basis for experimental meals (27.8 kcal, 1.0 g protein, 4.2 g carbohydrate per kg body weigh per day) that were provided to participants for 3 days prior to isotope studies. Protein intake in the experimental meals differed from habitual intake by at least 0.2 g/kg/day for 70 participants (range −1.3 to +0.6). Stepwise linear regression was used to determine associations between PK and DPM. Age, BMI, testosterone, IGF‐1, physical activity, quality of life, creatinine clearance, serum albumin, and insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) or sensitivity (QUICKI) with univariate p<0.10 were entered in the models. Only QUICKI predicted WBP (r2=0.21, p<0.0001). PK measures were not affected when habitual and experimental dietary protein and energy intakes differed in these elderly men. This suggests that such differences do not alter whole‐body and muscle protein kinetics. Support: NIH R01 AG18169 & RR000954, NCRR‐GCRC, USDA‐ARS.
Alterations in hepatic metabolism of sulfur‐containing substances by silymarin in mice
Authors: Kim Sun J , Kwon Do Y , Kim Young C
Published: June 2021

Silymarin has been shown to exhibit hepatoprotective effects against chemical‐induced liver injury, but the underlying mechanism of its beneficial action remains unclear. In this study we examined the changes in hepatic metabolism of sulfur‐amino acids induced by silymarin. Male mice were treated with silymarin (100 or 200 mg/kg, po) every 12 hr for a total of 3 doses. Methionine level was increased, but methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT) activity was decreased by silymarin in a dose‐dependent manner. S‐Adenosylmethione or homocysteine was not altered whereas cystathionine, cysteine and glutathione levels were increased significantly by silymarin treatment. Western blotting analysis revealed that silymarin treatment decreased protein expression of betaine‐homocysteine methyl transferase, MATI/III and cysteine dioxygenase, but increased cystathione β‐synthase expression in liver. Expression of γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase, the rate‐limiting enzyme of glutathione synthesis, was not influenced. The present results show that silymarin induces significant changes in the metabolomics of sulfur‐containing substances in liver, which appears to be associated with the hepatoprotective effects of this substance. Further studies to identify its significance in chemical‐induced liver injury are currently being conducted in this laboratory.

Grant Funding Source: KOSEF
A 2‐fold increase in threonine intake is required in late pregnancy
Authors: Levesque Crystal Lynette , Moehn Soenke , Pencharz Paul B , Ball Ronald O
Published: June 2021

Current recommendations for amino acid (AA) intake during pregnancy in humans and pigs are for a single intake throughout. This is illogical because requirement should be higher in late pregnancy due to dramatic increases in conceptus growth during the 3rd trimester. THR requirement was determined using the indicator amino acid oxidation method in eight multiparous sows using L[1‐13C]phenylalanine. Sows received diets ranging from 20 to 180% of the current recommended THR intake (10 gd−1) based on BW, expected pregnancy weight gain and litter size. Tracer phenylalanine was given orally in 8 ½‐hourly meals and expired 13CO2 was quantified. Data was analyzed using a nonlinear Mixed model. Sow reproductive performance was similar to commercial standards. The THR requirement in early pregnancy was 4.9 gd−1 (R2=0.71) and in late pregnancy was 12.8 gd−1 (R2=0.58), compared to the recommendation of 10 gd−1. Nutritional regimes in pregnancy should account for changes in AA requirement during pregnancy to reduce the risk of overfeeding AA in early pregnancy and underfeeding AA in late pregnancy.

Grant Funding Source: AB Pork, ON Pork, ALIDF, ACAAF, Ajinomoto
Partitioning of [methyl‐3H]methionine to methylated products under normal and high demand conditions in young Yucatan miniature pigs
Authors: McBreairty Laura E , Lamarre Simon G , McGowan Ross A , Bertolo Robert F
Published: June 2021

Methionine is the main source of 1‐carbon molecules which are partitioned to synthesize various methylated products including creatine, phosphatidylcholine, sarcosine and methylated DNA. Guanidinoacetate (GAA) is methylated to form creatine and because hepatic creatine synthesis in rats appears to be proportional to GAA availability, we hypothesized that when GAA is in excess, increased creatine synthesis will create a higher demand for available methyl groups. The objective of this study was to characterize the partitioning of the methyl groups of methionine with or without excess GAA. Anaesthetized piglets (15–18 d old) were intraportally infused with either GAA (n=5) or saline (n=5) for 2 h. A bolus of [methyl‐3H]methionine was intraportally infused at 1 h and liver samples were excised by cautery 30, 45 and 60 min later. Various methylated metabolites in the liver were analyzed for specific activity. As hypothesized, excess GAA led to increased creatine synthesis, resulting in a ~200% increase in methyl‐3H incorporation (P<0.05). We further hypothesized that this increased creatine synthesis would attenuate methyl‐3H incorporation into other products. However, incorporation into DNA was ~240% greater with GAA (P<0.05). In neonatal piglets, creatine synthesis is increased by excess GAA availability but instead of sequestering available methyl groups, this led to increased methylation of DNA. (CIHR)
Dish Here, Dine There: Serving Off the Stove Results in Less Food Intake than Serving Off the Table
Authors: Payne Collin Richards , Smith Laura , Wansink Brian
Published: June 2021

Prior research indicates that when candy dishes were moved 6 feet off the desks of office assistants, their average daily consumption of candy decreased by almost one‐half. They reported that this was because that distance led them to “pause” and reflect as to whether they were really that hungry. Multiple portions (refills) is a reported contributor to overeating at meal time. Using the same reasoning as with the candy dishes, a lunchtime lab experiment with university staff (n=78) was conducted to examine whether serving foods from the stove or kitchen counter instead of the table would reduce the number of times an individual refilled their plate. The results indicated that this “serve it here; eat it there” technique decreased intake by an estimated 23–35% decrease – approximately the equivalent to ½ less of a portion. The impact of this technique was slightly stronger on men than on women (P=.03).
Impact of social supply program of fortified milk “LICONSA” on the nutritional status of iron and zinc in pre school children (3–5 y)
Authors: Haro Maria Isabel Grijalva , Chavarria Elsa Yolanda , Ponce Jose Antonio , Artalejo Elizabeth , Nieblas Amparo , Javier Erika , Robles Alma Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

Objective

Assess the efficacy of a national program of fortified milk “LICONSA” on the nutritional status of iron and zinc in pre‐school children (3–5 y).

Subjects and Methods

The study was conducted in 77 children of both sexes (3–5 y), of which 54 consumed LICONSA fortified milk and 23 non‐users. The consumption of fortified milk was during 6 months to free demand. Measurements were made of hemoglobin, ferritin, and serum zinc and estimated consumption of milk.

Results

In children who consumed fortified milk there was an increase of in their hemoglobin and ferritin levels (1.13g/dL (p <0.05)and 5.83 μg/L (p<0.05) respectively). Additionally, there was a decrease of the prevalence of low iron stores from 20.4% to 4.1% (p <0.05). The serum zinc level presented an increase of 45.2 μg/dL (<0.05). At the end of the study no child presented a micronutrient deficiency. Children who did not consume fortified milk LICONSA showed no significant change in their serum values. The average consumption of milk powder LICONSA was 22.7±14.5 g, providing 2.5 mg of iron and zinc daily.

Conclusions

The consumption of fortified milk had a beneficial effect on the biochemical status of iron and zinc in children benefited from the program LICONSA.
Family and community influences on fruit and vegetable intake among children living in a rural tribal community
Authors: LaRowe Tara , Adams Alexandra , Dennis Samuel , Krueger Scott
Published: June 2021

Children's fruit and vegetable (F/V) intake has been associated with parental diet, home food environment, and distance to food stores. It is unknown whether these factors influence F/V intake among American Indian (AI) children living in rural areas. A pilot study was conducted among 69 families living on a rural tribal reservation. Parents and children, aged 10–14 years, provided information on diet, home food environment and food security. The distance between families’ homes to food stores off the reservation was also measured. Median F/V intake for children was 2.4 servings/d (range: 0–7.4 servings/d) and families traveled a mean of 12 miles (range: 1.4–25.8 miles) to the nearest grocery store. Parental F/V intake, home F/V availability, and food security was not associated with child F/V intake. However, an increase of F/V intake in children was related to a decreases in parental snack food intake (r= −0.32, p= 0.04) and home snack food availability (r= −0.21, p= 0.16). Children with higher F/V intake lived closer to grocery stores (r = −0.14), but this relationship was not significant. Higher household income and parental education was non‐significantly related to higher F/V intake in children. Trends from these results suggest that parental diet, home, and community factors influence AI children's F/V intake. These findings suggest the importance of improving local F/V access in rural communities and the family food environment to increase F/V intake in children. This project was supported by the UW Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, funded by an NIH CTSA (1 UL1 RR025011).
Description of prepared foods around recreation center in low income neighborhoods in Baltimore City
Authors: Lee Seung Hee , Rowan Megan T , Newman Sara , Anderson Jennifer , Suratkar Sonali R , Klassen Ann C , Frick Kevin , Powell Lisa M , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Low income African Americans in Baltimore get most of their calories from foods that are high in fat and sugar, with a high proportion coming from carry‐outs and other prepared food sources. However, little is known about Baltimore City's hundreds of carry‐out restaurants. We conducted an assessment of the prepared food environment in low income areas of Baltimore City using an observational checklist. We assessed 13 carry‐outs within a 1 km radius of recreation centers that are currently participating in the Baltimore Healthy Eating Zones trial. Over 60% of the carry‐outs are owned/managed by people of Korean descent. 70% are behind‐the‐glass type of stores, with little direct contact with customers. Only one store had healthy foods listed on the menu. The most common healthy foods is a low fat meat sandwich (92%). 77% had a choice of meat and 31% had a choice of vegetable for the sandwich. Moreover, 23% had salad as an entrée and 38% offered watermelon slices (seasonal). 70% were promoting combo meal that includes fries and soda. Our findings will be used to develop an intervention for carry‐outs to test the feasibility of increasing the availability of healthy options, improved signage, portion size modification, healthier food preparation methods and carryout/restaurant staff training on consumer food purchasing behavior.

Funding provided by the Diabetes Research and Training Center

Grant Funding Source: Diabetes Research and Training Center
Analysis of food intake by Korean in comparison to the recommended food intake patterns using 2007 KNAHNES data
Authors: Song Su Jin , Lee Sang Eun , Lee Sim Yeol , Paik Hee Young
Published: June 2021

Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans (KDRIs) were newly established by The Korean Nutrition Society in 2005. Based on KDRIs, new recommended food intake patterns for Koreans were also suggested as a dietary guideline. The purpose of this study was to estimate food intake by Korean in comparison to the recommended food intake patterns. 24‐hour recall method was used to collect the dietary intake data from 2007 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Subjects (n=3822) were divided into two age groups; young subjects aged 5–19 years (n=929) and adult subjects aged older than 20 years (n=2893). The amount of food intake for each food group was converted into the number of servings by using recommended serving size of the group. In both age groups, the mean numbers of servings for grain and vegetable group were close to the recommendations. The intakes of each fruit and milk group were lower than the recommendations. However, the consumption of oil, nut and sugar group by young subjects was higher than the recommendation. Over 70% of total subjects consumed less than 75% of recommendations for meat, fruit and milk group. The results suggested that Koreans need to consume more fruits and dairy food. Especially it was needed that young Korean subjects decrease the intake of oils and sugars.
Levels and variability of sodium content in soups, baked products, and breakfast cereals in the United States
Authors: Juan WenYen , Crane Nancy
Published: June 2021

About three‐quarters of Americans’ sodium intake is from processed food. Both sodium content and frequency of consumption of such foods contribute to sodium intakes that exceed recommendations for most Americans. The yearly updated USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference (SR) includes sodium content per 100 grams of foods available on the market. In addition, amount of sodium per Reference Amount Customarily Consumed per eating occasion (RACC) provides nutrient information based on a meaningful uniform quantity of food by category. The RACC is used to determine a food's labeled serving size and eligibility for sodium content and health claims, and to compare sodium content within and across food categories. We examined the average and range of sodium content per RACC for three categories of FDA regulated foods (soups, baked products, and breakfast cereals) selected based on the ranking using SR22. Within the categories, soups contained the highest average sodium per RACC (about 40% of Daily Value (DV) for dried soups and one‐third of the DV for ready‐to‐serve and condensed soups). For breakfast cereals and baked products, average sodium across all subcategories ranged from 4% to 24% of DV. A wide range of sodium per RACC was observed within each subcategory for all categories. Education efforts to reduce sodium intake should focus on better food choices within and across food categories.
Qualitative evidence of the disconnect between intent and interpretation of common child obesity prevention messages
Authors: Sigman‐Grant Madeleine Joyce , Dickin Katherine , Dollahite Jamie , Strom Hilary , Olson Beth H. , Wengreen Heidi , Mobley Amy R. , Krogstrand Kaye Stanek
Published: June 2021

Many health professionals disseminate similar obesity prevention messages regarding food selection and eating and physical activity behaviors, based on varying levels of supporting evidence. A pilot study of 44 low‐income mothers of children aged 4–10 years explored mothers understanding of selected messages. Mothers were asked to report perceptions of how each targeted behavior might prevent children from becoming overweight. Six states used a single recruitment strategy, interview guide and protocol based on a card sort activity with projective interviewing techniques. Targeted behaviors included eating together as a family, limiting sedentary activities, restricting access to food, portion sizes, eating out, choosing healthful foods, sweetened beverage intake and eating breakfast daily. Some surprising interpretations were revealed regarding perceived relationship of messages to weight status. Examples include eating together as a family could lead to overeating and playing video games could keep children from snacking. Informants expressed uncertainty about how eating breakfast could impact weight and confusion regarding food restriction. These findings suggest health professionals need to be clear in translating research into meaningful messages. Funding was provided by authors’ institutions.
Identification of Novel Methylation Markers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma using a Methylation Array
Authors: Shin So‐Hyun , Kim Baek‐hui , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Jang Ja‐June , Kang Gyeong‐Hoon
Published: June 2021

Promoter CpG island hypermethylation has become recognized as an important mechanism for inactivating tumor suppressor genes or tumor‐related genes in human cancers of various tissues. Gene inactivation in association with promoter CpG island hypermethylation has been reported to be four times more frequent than genetic changes in human colorectal cancers. Hepatocellular carcinoma is also one of the human cancer types in which aberrant promoter CpG island hypermethylation is frequently found. However, the number of genes identified to date as hypermethylated for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is fewer than that for colorectal cancer or gastric cancer, which can be attributed to fewer attempts to perform genome‐wide methylation profiling for HCC. In the present study, we used bead‐array technology and coupled methylation‐specific PCR to identify new genes showing cancer‐specific methylation in HCC. Twenty‐four new genes have been identified as hypermethylated at their promoter CpG island loci in a cancer‐specific manner. Of these, TNFRSF10C, HOXA9, NPY, and IRF5 were frequently hypermethylated in hepatocellular carcinoma tissue samples and their methylation was found to be closely associated with inactivation of gene expression. Further study will be required to elucidate the clinicopathological implications of these newly found DNA methylation markers in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Time series analysis of transcriptional regulation of NF‐kB targeted genes in vivo during the onset of liver regeneration
Authors: PATRA BISWANATH , JUSKEVICIUTE EGLE , HOEK JAN B , VADIGEPALLI RAJANIKANTH
Published: June 2021

NF‐kB is an essential beta‐scaffold transcription factor actively involved in embryonic liver development and liver regeneration. Previous studies on temporal and functional analysis of transcriptional regulatory networks in regenerating liver showed that NF‐kB is significantly activated within an hour of 70% partial hepatectomy. This NF‐kB activation is expected to lead to a broad range of functional changes in gene expression between 0 to 6 hours attributed to the transition of hepatocytes from G0 to G1 phase of cell cycle. Based on promoter analysis using our PAINT bioinformatics software, we have identified several potential NF‐kB targeted genes that are differentially regulated during this process. We validated a subset of these predictions at 21 distinct target promoters using Chromatin Immunoprecipitation followed by real‐time PCR. Our results reveal that NF‐kB binding is significantly up regulated for all of the 21 tested promoters including those of key genes such as Mt1a, Vim, Cyp4b1, iNOS, and Cebpb. These findings indicate that the increase in activity of NF‐kB is correlated with corresponding increase in binding at promoters of key genes regulated in the onset of liver regeneration. Research Support: NIH/NIAAA R21 AA016919, R01 AA018873, R01 AA008714.
THE EFFECT OF PROPRANOLOL ON GENE EXPRESSION DURING THE BLOOD ALCOHOL CYCLE OF RATS FED ETHANOL INTRAGASTRICALLY
Authors: Li Jun , Bardag‐Gorce Fawzia , Oliva Joan , French Barbara A , Dedes Jennifer , French Samuel W
Published: June 2021

Propranolol, a beta adrenergic blocker prevents the blood alcohol (BAL) cycle in rats fed ethanol intragastrically at a constant rate by preventing the cyclic changes in the metabolic rate caused by fluctuating levels of norepinephrine released into the blood. The change in the rate of metabolism changes the rate of alcohol elimination in the blood which causes the BAL to cycle. Microarray analysis of the livers from the rats fed ethanol and propranolol showed similar changes in clusters of functionally related gene expressions. The controls and the trough of the cycle differed dramatically from the cluster pattern seen in the rats at the peaks of the blood alcohol cycle. The changes in gene expression induced by ethanol were similar when propranolol was fed without ethanol especially with the changes in the kinases and phosphatases, Toll‐like receptor signaling and cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction were also changed.

The changes in gene expression caused by ethanol and propranolol feeding are alike probably because both drugs induce β adrenergic receptor desensitization. Supported by NIH/NIAAA 8116.
EFFECT OF BETAINE TREATMENT OF RATS FED AN ACUTE BOLUS OF ETHANOL AT 3 H AND 12 H POST BOLUS: A MICROARRAY ANALYSIS
Authors: Li Jun , Bardag‐Gorce Fawzia , Oliva Joan , French Barbara A , Dedes Jennifer , French Samuel W
Published: June 2021

Betaine, a methyl donor active in methionine metabolism, has been effective in preventing and reversing experimental alcohol liver disease. However, the metabolic and molecular biologic mechanisms involved in this prevention are only partially known. To further investigate how betaine modifies the effects of ethanol on the liver, rats were given an acute ethanol bolus with or without betaine and the results were compared to isocaloric dextrose fed controls 3 h and 12 h post bolus. Livers were subjected to microarray analysis and functional pathways, and individual gene expression changes were analyzed. Experimental groups were compared by Venn diagrams showing that both ethanol and betaine caused a change in the expression of a large number of genes, indicating that the changes were global in extent. KEGG functional pathways were all affected and were mainly down regulated at 3 h post bolus when ethanol plus betaine were compared with ethanol fed rats. The most profound effect of betaine was on the metabolic pathways both at 3 and 12 h post bolus. At 3 h the changes in gene expression were mostly down regulated but at 12 h the changes were equally up and down regulated. Thus the effect of betaine on the effects of ethanol were partly transient. Supported by NIH/NIAAA 8116.
Labeling and Tracking of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Porcine Abdominal
Authors: Han Daniel K , Shah Tejas R , Shin Hyun Joo , Malik Rajesh K , Salloum Alexander , Faries Peter L
Published: June 2021

Introduction

A consistent and reliable method of tracking mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is needed to confirm the presence of implanted MSCs in target tissue. This study aims to evaluate GFP‐expressing adenovirus and lentivirus infection as labeling modalities for studying the effects of MSC introduction into a porcine abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) model.

Methods

MSCs are isolated from pig bone marrow aspirates. Adenoviral infection is performed by addition of commercially purchased GFP‐expressing adenovirus to MSC media. Lentiviral infection is performed by addition of GFP‐expressing virus harvested from transfected 293 T cells to MSCs. The MSCs are then implanted into pig AAA models which are sacrificed at various time points for analysis.

Results

The infected cells demonstrated high CD13 and CD117 expression with low CD45 expression, indicative of a MSC population. In vitro, adenovirus achieved 80% infection efficiency compared to 90% with lentivirus. In vivo, adenoviral infection provided GFP signals up to day 7 before loss of signal. Lentiviral infection provided a signal on day 1; studies at later time points are currently ongoing.

Conclusion

Infection of MSCs with GFP‐expressing adenovirus effectively allows tracking of cells within aneurysmal tissue for 7 days. Compared to adenovirus, lentivirus can achieve higher infection efficiencies without compromising cell viability or phenotype.
Differential effects of a bradykinin receptor 2 (B2R) and bradykinin receptor 1 (B1R) in vasculogenesis of human endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) compared to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)
Authors: Bakdash Nadia , Wu Yi , Colman Robert
Published: June 2021

Bradykinin (BK), a potent activator of endothelial cells, is known to induce vasodilation and vascular permeability. BK signaling is initiated by binding to G protein‐coupled receptors B2R and/or B1R. B2R is constitutively expressed in endothelial cells while B1R is upregulated by inflammatory stimuli.

We now report that EPCs undergo differentiation (tube formation) in a 3D collagen gel. Pre‐incubation of EPCs with a B2R selective antagonist (HOE‐140) reduced differentiation (p<0.001). We found that EPCs stimulated with the selective B2R agonist FR190997 (50 nM) enhanced migration, a response abrogated by HOE‐140 (p<0.05). We conclude that EPCs utilize B2R for vasculogenesis and migration.

In contrast, HUVECs did not display a significant reduction in vasculogenesis upon addition of exogenous BK. After pre‐incubation with [des‐Arg10]‐HOE 140, (B1R selective antagonist), BK‐stimulated HUVECs displayed a reduction in tube formation (p<0.001), suggesting that HUVECs utilize B1R for vasculogenesis. In the presence of the B1R antagonist, BK‐stimulated HUVEC migration was inhibited (p<0.01). In addition, proliferation of HUVECs remained unchanged upon stimulation with BK. Upon exposure to the B1R antagonist, proliferation was unchanged.

In conclusion, in BK‐stimulated EPCs, B2R mediates differentiation and migration. In contrast, in BK‐stimulated HUVECs, the B1R antagonist selectively inhibits vasculogenesis and migration but not proliferation.
A mathematical framework for predicting oxygen transport and vessel remodeling in tumors
Authors: Munn Lance L , Kamoun Walid , Tyrrell James Alex
Published: June 2021

During resolution of wound healing, endothelial cells in the immature networks respond to blood forces, re‐organizing locally to optimize the network globally. Some segments dilate, while others are pruned, and eventually, a stable configuration is reached. In contrast, tumor blood vessels are chronically immature, probably due to high levels of VEGF in the microenvironment. Interestingly, many anti‐VEGF therapies can cause maturation or stabilization of tumor blood vessels through a process resembling adaptive remodeling of networks in wounds. Unfortunately this effect is temporary, and very little is known about how it affects the distribution of blood flow and the transport of nutrients and drugs into the tumor. In general, remodeling depends on blood shear forces, transvascular pressure as well as growth factors such as VEGF. To provide an analytical framework for understanding this process, we have developed a mathematical model, supported by multi‐ parameter imaging methodology, that incorporates the necessary elements for predicting the transport of nutrients and drugs throughout tumor vessels and tissue, as well as the adaptive remodeling of the blood vessel network. Funded by R01HL064240.
Effects of Endodontic Inflammation on the Rat Pancreas
Authors: Zhang Haowei , Bain Jeniffer L. , Caskey Curtis P. , Sandifer Lindsay Camille , Johnson Roger
Published: June 2021

Our objective was to assess gender‐specific systemic effects coincident to endodontic inflammation on the pancreas. Female SD rats with and without ovariectomies and male SD rats were studied (n=16 for each group). In 1/2 of the animals, endodontic abscesses were created by exposing the pulps of the 1st and 2nd maxillary molars using a dental drill. The rest of the animals were sham‐operated. 28 days later, serum and pancreas were collected. 1/2 of the pancreas were solubilized in PBS and the other half embedded in paraffin. The latter were serially sectioned and stained with H&E or immunostained with anti‐IL‐6 or anti‐TNFa. In H&E sections, the cross‐sectional areas of the islets of Langerhans were measured using Sigma Scan Pro software. IL‐6 and TNFa concentrations were measured in the pancreas and IL‐6, TNFa, 17β estradiol and testosterone concentrations were measured in serum by ELISA. Data were compared by factorial ANOVA and a post‐hoc Tukey test. Serum and pancreas IL‐6 and TNFa concentrations were significantly higher in OVX‐experimental animals than in all other groups. The cross‐sectional areas of the islets of Langerhans were significantly greater in the OVX‐experimental than in all other groups except Sham‐operated control male rats. The data suggest that loss of estrogen in females results in greater systemic inflammation coincident to endodontic abscesses, which affects the structure and immune profile of the pancreas.
Characterization of the adenosine receptor profile of HL‐60 promyelocytes during maturation
Authors: Juhel Marina , Harakal Jessica , Miller Vandana , Law William
Published: June 2021

Adenosine has been shown to limit the symptoms of sepsis by inhibiting adhesion and oxidative burst in inflammatory cells after activating one or more adenosine receptors (A1R, A2AR, A2BR, and A3R). The purpose of this study is to characterize the changes in AR expressions profile during maturation and activation of neutrophils and macrophages. HL‐60 promyelocytes are precursor cells that were induced to differentiate into segmented neutrophils after a 5–9‐day incubation with 1.25% dimethyl sulfoxide. Culturing in the presence of 10–7 M 1, 25 dihyroxyvitamin D3 for 4–6 days promoted their maturation into macrophages. Maturation was confirmed by an increase in CD11b and a decrease in CD71 expression on PE‐labeled‐antibody stained cells using a flow cytometer. These cells were further analyzed for the expression of A1R and A3R using FITC‐labeled antibodies. Preliminary results suggest that maturation resulted in a 2‐fold and 4‐fold increase in expression of A1R and A3R receptors, respectively, as compared to HL‐60 cells. This expression pattern was also observed using a confocal microscope. These cells will be further characterized for expression of A1R and A3R receptors following activation using interferon‐gamma; and bacterial lipopolysaccharide. This will provide an in vitro model to study the role of adenosine and adenosine receptor expression changes during inflammation. (Source of support: USP)