bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative health communication for vulnerable populations
Authors: Peterson Lisa
Published: June 2021

Chronic diseases like diabetes and risk factors such as obesity are on the rise in immigrant populations. Studies indicate that bilingual, multimedia tools that are culturally responsive and literacy appropriate help communities learn how to maintain and improve health. Change can be effected at various levels of influence –individual, interpersonal and community level. Three community‐based, learner‐centered video projects grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and Kreuter's model of health communication have tested the usefulness of multimedia. The videos include (1) a video for Hmong parents providing practical strategies for healthy eating and physical activity, (2) a training video for nutrition paraprofessionals delivering a calcium health curriculum for Latino families, and (3) a video accompanying a diabetes training module for Hmong healthcare interpreters. Testing involved a series of small groups and individual interviews with the target audience, Hmong paraprofessional and agency staff serving the Hmong population. Informal evaluation survey results indicated that the majority of the target population consistently identified primary messages and thought the videos were useful. These projects demonstrated the efficacy of the audiovisual format and address the urgent need to support innovative methods that decrease the impact of chronic disease for those most vulnerable.
Assessing Needs for Nutrition Education to Prevent Childhood Overweight: Focus Group Discussions with Head Start Parents
Authors: Adedze Pascasie , Witz Klaus G. , Orr Robin A. , Donovan Sharon M.
Published: June 2021

Parents shape their children's eating and physical activity behaviors through the environments they create and by serving as role models. Thus, parents will benefit from nutrition education programs that increase their self efficacy for establishing healthy behaviors in their children. We hypothesized that assessing parents’ needs would make a nutrition education program more relevant and enhance participation. Two focus groups with Head Start parents were conducted in Decatur, IL using predetermined questions. Responses were audiotaped, transcribed and key themes identified. Parents were knowledgeable about causes of childhood overweight and understood that eating habits are learned early from adult role models. Parents identified “healthy eating” as consuming more fruits and vegetables. Barriers identified were the expense of fresh foods and lack of time. In terms of format, parents preferred visual education materials rather than written materials, “something I can watch, I can see”. In summary, nutrition education was valued by Head Start parents. Visual educational materials were preferred and have been effective in populations with low literacy, thus we will develop a program in DVD format. Funded by University of Illinois Extension.
Attenuation of eccentric exercise‐induced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), muscle damage and oxidative stress by β‐alanine (βA) and branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA)
Authors: Furukawa Masaru , Davies Sean , Mawatari Kazunori , Kelsen Anne , Li Muyao , Fukagawa Naomi K
Published: June 2021

Understanding the effects of nutritional supplements on DOMS is necessary for rational use. βA, an L‐carnosine precursor, reportedly enhances high intensity exercise performance and BCAA reduces DOMS. To determine the effect of 1 wk of βA (800 mg, 4/day) on DOMS, markers of muscle damage and oxidative stress, eight (25 ± 1.5y, mean ± SE) fit (VO2 max 53±7 ml/min/kg) men (n=5) and women (n=3) on no nutritional supplements 4 wks prior to testing were randomized to either βA or placebo (P). The last dose of supplement was ingested with 5 g BCAA (Ile:Leu:Val = 1:4.5:1.7) 10 min prior to a 45‐min 10% downhill run test (DHR) at 60% VO2max. DOMS assessment and blood samples were obtained prior to, immediately after (t=0), and then at 1, 6, 12, 18, 24 and 72 h after exercise. CK levels, a marker of muscle injury, increased after exercise (p=0.05, ANOVA) but were lower in the βA group (Fig 1, p=0.07, ANOVA). Plasma albumin carbonyls, an index of oxidative stress, was lower with βA at 6h (p <0.05). DOMS, assessed as the algometer force eliciting pain, was also lower whereas F2‐isoprostane levels appeared to increase in the βA group. These data show that short‐term βA enhances the BCAA effect by attenuating DOMS and muscle injury after DHR but with differential effects on oxidative stress. The responses may be due to an increase in L‐carnosine levels. Supported by NIH grants MO1 RR00109, T32 ES 07122, and AG021106.
Urinary calcium losses during high‐impact and resistance exercise training
Authors: Nemoseck Tricia , Kern Mark
Published: June 2021

Mechanisms responsible for exercise‐induced bone mineralization and potential effects of activity on dietary calcium requirements are not completely understood. We investigated the effects of a high‐impact and resistance training exercise program versus a period of restricted physical activity on urinary calcium excretion. Ten healthy, moderately active, men (27.0 ± 5.8 years) participated in a 3‐week randomized, cross‐over study. Subjects were assigned to complete 7‐day periods of a) daily exercise (EX) including high‐impact and resistance training activities and b) exercise restriction with a one‐week washout period between trials. During both phases, subjects consumed four, 8‐ounce servings of low‐fat (1%) milk daily and avoided other dietary and supplemental sources of calcium. Urine was collected throughout the final 72 hours of each study phase. Urinary calcium and sodium excretions (mean ± SEM) were 14.7 ± 5.2 % and 15.8 ± 3.0 % lower (P<0.05), respectively, during the EX phase. This occurred despite subjects consuming more (~300 mg/d; P<0.05) sodium during the EX phase. These data suggest that healthy, moderately active men excrete significantly less urinary calcium during a period of exercise training versus inactivity. Therefore, renal conservation of calcium may be partially responsible for improved bone mineralization that has been observed during periods of greater physical activity.
Effect of the MTHFR 677C→T polymorphism on folate status response to folic acid doses in large‐scale randomized intervention trial in young Chinese women
Authors: Yang Quan‐He , Hao Ling , Li Zhu , Bailey Lynn B. , Maneval David , Zhu Jiang‐Hui , Hu Dale J. , Berry R. J.
Published: June 2021

The study objective was to evaluate the effect of the MTHFR677C→T polymorphism on folate status response to different daily or weekly folic acid (FA) doses in young women. Women (N=1108) were randomly assigned for 6 mo FA interventions to 1 of 6 groups (100 μg 1 X daily, 25 μg 4 X daily, 400 μg 1 X daily, 100 μg 4 X daily, 4,000 μg 1 X daily, or 4,000 μg once weekly). At baseline, plasma folate did not differ (p=0.448) among MTHFR677C→T genotype groups; however, homocysteine (Hcy) was 13.5% higher (p<0.001) in women with the TT genotype compared to the CC genotype. Genotype effect on plasma folate response to FA supplementation was evident by comparing the % increase from baseline to 6 mo in subjects with the CC vs TT genotype (100 μg/day 152% CC vs 80% TT; 400 μg/day 267% CC vs 221% TT; 4,000 μg/day 441% CC vs 396% TT). For CC genotypes, no change in Hcy was observed at 6 mo among women who took 100 μg/day FA in contrast to 14.6% and 15.7% reductions for 400 μg/day and 4,000 μg/day groups, respectively. For TT genotypes, the corresponding reductions in Hcy were 6.4%, 22.8%, and 31.5% respectively. At 6 mo, Hcy was not different (p>0.05) between women with CC and TT genotypes regardless of FA dose. These results indicate that plasma folate increased more and Hcy decreased less among women with the MTHFR 677 CC genotype compared to women with TT genotype in response to FA supplementation. This work was supported by a collaborative CDC agreement.
Metabolomics analysis of plasma from humans depleted of choline
Authors: Sha Wei , Berger Alvin , Costa Kerry‐Ann da , Zeisel Steven H.
Published: June 2021

In previous studies, we measured targeted metabolites in choline and 1‐carbon metabolism in plasma from humans depleted of choline. In this study, we utilized an untargeted metabolomic approach to globally determine the biochemicals affected by a choline deficient diet. Adult men and women with different genetic profiles in genes involved in folate and choline metabolism were fed a diet containing 550 mg choline/d for 10 d. They were then fed a choline deficient diet for up to 42 d. Fifteen subjects who were deemed clinically choline deficient (developed liver and muscle dysfunction) on the low choline diet were then repleted with graded amounts of choline. Blood was collected at the end of each phase, and plasma analyzed using LC‐MS. ANOVA was used to compare metabolomic profiles in the subjects to select biochemicals that significantly changed their abundance (p<0.1) in the following pair‐wise comparisons: baseline vs. depleted; depleted vs. repleted; and baseline vs. repleted. We found 38 named biochemicals significantly changed by choline depletion and 26 changed by choline repletion in various biochemical classes. We are currently examining biochemicals that change in subjects grouped by organ dysfunction, gender and genetic polymorphism, and applying multivariate statistical approaches on both named and un‐named biochemicals. This research is supported by grants from NIH‐DK55865, DK56350 and RR00046.
Global DNA methylation changes in response to chronic consumption and withdrawal of low, moderate, and high folic acid doses
Authors: Quinlivan Eoin , Crider Krista , Berry R J , Hao Ling , Li Zhu , Zhu Jiang‐Hui , Maneval David , Young Thomas P , Bailey Lynn B
Published: June 2021

The effect of chronic folic acid supplementation (100, 400, 4000 μg/d) and withdrawal on global DNA methylation in reproductive age Chinese women (n=135; 45/treatment group) not currently exposed to folic acid was evaluated. DNA methylation was expressed as a percent of methylated cytosines (as measured by a novel LC‐MS/MS assay) at 0, 1, 3, 6 month of supplementation, and after a 3 month washout period. Mean (±SD) DNA methylation decreased by 13% (p < 0.001) between baseline (4.44 ± 0.18) and 1 mo (3.83 ± 0.42), but did not change further (p = 0.4) during intervention (3.84 ± 0.41 at 3 mo, 3.91 ± 0.74 at 6 mo). During the 3 month washout period, DNA methylation decreased a further 23% relative to baseline (to 3.44 ± 1.18; p < 0.0001), with ~18% of subjects exhibiting a >50% drop in methylation (maximum decrease = 94%). The response was dose independent. In conclusion, a moderate reduction in global DNA methylation was observed in response to folic acid supplementation relative to a larger drop in response to folic acid withdrawal. These data suggest that some subjects might be acutely sensitive to folic acid withdrawal. Supported by a collaborative CDC agreement and the GCRC Grant # MO1‐RR00082.
A FEW HYPERTENSIVE HUMANS RESPOND TO MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTS WITH A RISE IN BLOOD PRESSURE, suggesting a genetic subgroup in response to nutritional Mg
Authors: Rosanoff A.
Published: June 2021

Far back as 1942, Winkler showed that i.v. Mg infusion lowered blood pressure (BP) in humans; that study also showed one subject's systolic blood pressure rose upon i.v. Mg infusion. Analysis of 41 clinical studies of Mg supplements on blood pressure show that 20 mmol (486 mg)/day Mg will significantly decrease high blood pressure in humans, with half that dose being effective for subjects on anti‐hypertnesive medications.

Few of these 41 studies report individual blood pressure results, but in the 8 that do, all but one show “outliers” for whom magnesium supplements resulted in INCREASED blood pressure during the study. For this almost completely consistent finding (7 of 8 studies), 15 – 52% of 7 studies’ subjects had at least a slight rise in diastolic, systolic or mean blood pressure upon Mg supplementation, while 1 – 17% of studies’ individuals were significant outliers, showing large rises in these blood pressure parameters, [i.e. > 5 mm Hg rise for DBP, > 20 mm Hg rise for SBP or > 10 Hg mm rise for MBP]. Only one of the 8 studies reporting individual subjects’ results showed all subjects with a drop in blood pressure.

Combined, these 8 studies show 207 individual results of Mg therapy for blood pressure, of which 6.3 – 7.3% showed a substantial rise in the measured BP parameter, opposite the majority and group statistical results, suggesting variant genetic allele(s) or polymorphism(s) in the human genome for the handling of Mg supplements and how they effect a blood pressure response. Mg supplementation for blood pressure, while therapeutic for the majority of hypertensives, may be contra‐indicated for a small minority beyond the gastro‐intestinal considerations.
Iron Absorptive Capacity in Children with Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep
Authors: Vanness Arlyce Faye , Lei Sian , Friedman Norman R , Cavanaugh Keith L , Hambidge K Michael , Kline Carole E , Krebs Nancy F
Published: June 2021

Iron deficiency without anemia can be manifested by a multitude of neurologic symptoms, including periodic limb movements of sleep (PLMS). Symptoms improve with Fe supplements. We undertook an investigation of children with PLMS on polysomnogram and of children without evidence of abnormal sleep by detailed history and screening questionnaire. After obtaining 3‐day diet record and baseline biomarkers, 2 mg oral stable isotope (58Fe) was administered fasting to measure Fe absorption by RBC enrichment after at least 3 months without Fe supplementation. Results for 2 controls (females, 14.0 ± 0.2 yrs) and 3 study subjects (2 M, 1F, 8.0 ± 1.5 yrs), respectively: dietary Fe (%RDA) 124.2 ± 62.5 and 122.4 ± 38.5; hemoglobin (g/L) 143 ± 4.2 and 136 ± 3.1; serum ferritin (μg/L) 33.4 ± 0.8 and 44.7 ± 4.2; Fe saturation (%) 24.5 ± 4.9 and 24.7 ± 11.7; free erythrocyte protoporphyrin 5 ± 0 and 8 ± 5.7. Fe absorption by RBC enrichment is currently being analyzed for both groups. Conclusion: Fe intakes in these children appear adequate although there are no data regarding heme Fe vs non‐heme Fe. Serum ferritins are in the low normal range. Further conclusions may be made after the RBC enrichment results are complete. Supported by NIH #DK07658 – T32 and Pediatric CTRC, NIH # M01 RR00069
Dietary selenium (Se) and copper (Cu) interact to affect homocysteine metabolism in rats
Authors: Uthus Eric O , Ross Sharon A
Published: June 2021

Previously we reported that both Se deficiency (SeD) and Cu deficiency (CuD) decreased plasma homocysteine (pHcys) and increased plasma glutathione (pGSH) in rats. We also showed that the catalytic subunit of glutamate‐cysteine ligase (Gclc), which catalyzes the rate limiting step in glutathione biosynthesis, was upregulated in SeD as well as in CuD. We suggested that in both deficiencies, that Hcys was being shunted through the transsulfuration pathway as a result of this upregulation. Because both SeD and CuD have similar effects, we hypothesized that a combined deficiency would exacerbate the decrease in pHcys and the increase in pGSH by further upregulating Gclc. In a 2 × 2 experiment, male weanling Sprague‐Dawley rats (N=8–10/group) were fed an amino acid‐based diet containing either 0 or 0.2 μg Se (as selenite)/g and <1 or 6 μg Cu (as Cu carbonate)/g for 5 wk. Values in the table are means±SD. Both SeD and CuD resulted in decreased pHcys; however, CuD in rats fed 0.2 μg Se/g resulted in a greater decrease in pHcys than did CuD in the SeD rats. SeD and CuD resulted in increased pGSH and the combined deficiencies further exacerbated the increase. Plasma cysteine (pCys) was decreased by SeD and increased by CuD.

The findings show that a combined deficiency of both Se and Cu results in lower pHcys and significantly elevated pGSH most likely as a result of increased GSH biosynthesis subsequent to upregulation of Gclc.
Zinc deficiency‐induced hypertension is not caused by augmentation of renin‐angiotensin system
Authors: Konomi Aki , Yokoi Katsuhiko
Published: June 2021

Some scientists reported that zinc (Zn) deficiency induces hypertension, although the mechanism is not established. To investigate the physiological role of Zn in blood pressure control, thirty 3‐week‐old male Sprague‐Dawley rats were assigned into 3 dietary treatment groups of 10 for the 4‐week study: control group (AIN‐93G; Cont), Zn‐deficient group (4.5 mg Zn/kg; ZD) and pair‐fed group (AIN‐93G; PF). At day 24–25, blood pressures (SBP, DBP and MBP) were measured by tail cuff method. At day 27–28, body water distribution was measured. Statistical analysis was performed by PLSD. Blood pressures of ZD were highest and those of PF were lowest among all treatment groups. Blood pressures of ZD were significantly higher than PF. Hematocrit of ZD and PF were significantly higher than Cont, and that of ZD was similar to PF. Peripheral and bone marrow blood of ZD were very sticky and hard to spread on the slide glass. Blood cells were more concentrated in the blood smears of ZD. ACE activity and relative heart weight of ZD were significantly higher than PF and Cont. Ang II and ICW/ECW of ZD were marginally lower than PF. These results suggest that “zinc deficiency hypertension” is not caused by augmentation of renin‐angiotensin system and hemoconcetration. Subsets of essential hypertension in humans might include “zinc deficiency hypertension”.

This research was financially supported by Japan Science Society (The Sasakawa Scientific Research Grant No. 18–144)
A comparison of efficacy of a 5‐day versus 10‐day zinc therapy for acute childhood diarrhoea (ACD) on the incidence of diarrhoea in subsequent three months
Authors: Shamsul Alam Dewan , Yunus Mohammad , El Arifeen Shams , Rahman Chowdhury Hafizur , Larson Charles P , Allen Sack David , Baqui Abdullah H , Black Robert E
Published: June 2021

Design Randomised, double‐blind, placebo controlled community trial.

Seeting Rural Bangladesh

Subjects and Methods: Children (n=1622) aged 4 – 59 months with acute diarrhea, detected by daily community surveillance, were randomly allocated either to 5‐ or 10‐days of zinc treatment. Those allocated to the 5‐day course received an indistinguishable placebo for the remaining 5 days. Female field workers visited each individual child daily and supervised the administration of zinc.

Result: The two groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, nutritional status and selected SES variables. Adherence to the treatment was 99% for the 1st five days and 97% for 2nd five days. The mean (±SD) incidence of diarrhoea over 90 days did not differ significantly between 5‐d vs 10‐d groups (1.08±1.38 vs 1.02±1.35; p=0.35; respectively). Children in both groups spent a comparable days with diarrhoea (3.1±5.6 d vs 2.9±5.6 d; p=0.64; 5‐d vs 10‐d respectively). Time to onset of the first episode during 90 d period did not differ significantly between groups. The proportion of children suffering from diarrhoea over the 90‐day period did not differ significantly between groups. The diarrhea incidence and prevalence in the two groups were also comparable.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that a 5‐day zinc treatment for ACD is as efficacious as 10 days of therapy in preventing diarrhoea in the subsequent three months.
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone: Tissue Distribution and Metabolism
Authors: Rucker Robert B , Eghbali S , Li E Wan , Tchaparian E , Harris C , Bauerly K , Satre M , Storms D , Mitchell A , Chowanadisai W , Handley R
Published: June 2021

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) acts as a growth factor affecting a variety of systemic functions when deficient in diets (e.g. reduced mitochondria, altered lipid metabolism). Moreover, PQQ is hypothesized as important in the modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, PQQox and PQQred are not efficient peroxyanion radical scavengers, although both interact with superoxide. Imidazolopyrroloquinoline (IPQ), a product of PQQ and amino acid condensation, is a very poor radical scavenger, although an apparent PQQ/IPQ ‐ amino acid intermediate (formed from reacting PQQ with gly) is an excellent ROS scavenger (e.g. equivalent to trolox in ROS scavenging TRAP and ABTS assays). Nevertheless, a mechanistic issue is whether the low tissue concentrations of PQQ or this intermediate are sufficient to effectively scavenge ROS. In rats and mice, tissue levels are 1/100 to 1/1000 those for other radical scavengers (e.g. 3–8 ng PQQ/g of liver or muscle in contrast to micrograms of tocopherols isomer/g of tissue). In this regard, data on PQQ nutritional balance and tissue levels will be presented. An intriguing finding is that tissue levels of PQQ appear to be regulated in developmental animal model systems (e.g. rodent and avian embryo cultures or incubations) and increase 2–3 fold throughout development, even when there is no apparent external source of PQQ. (Support: Mitsubishi Chem. Inc.; CHNR, UC Davis).
Induction of cell cycle arrest in DU145 human prostate cancer cells by the dietary compound piceatannol
Authors: Lee Yeo Myeong , Cho Han Jin , Lim Do Young , Kim Jin Kyung , Park Jung Han Yoon
Published: June 2021

Piceatannol (3,4,3′,5′‐tetrahydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring polyphenol and analog of the cancer chemopreventive agent resveratrol (3,5,4′‐trihydroxystilbene). Piceatannol is present in the skins of grapes, rhubarb, and sugar cane and is known to have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐carcinogenic activity. In the present study, we examined piceatannol‐mediated regulation of cell cycle progression in androgen‐insensitive DU145 human prostate cancer cells. Cells were treated with 0–10 μM piceatannol. The percentage of cells in G1 phase was increased in cells treated with piceatannol for 24 h. Piceatannol decreased incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA. Piceatannol decreased the protein levels of cyclin A, and cyclin D1. In addition, cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK)2 and CDK4 protein levels decreased in cell treated with piceatannol. But piceatannol did not affect the expression of the CDK inhibitor p21 or p27. The activity of CDK2 and CDK4 decreased following piceatannol treatment in a concentration‐dependent manner. The present results indicate that piceatannol inhibits the growth of DU145 cell growth by delaying G1 cell cycle progression, which may be mediated via inhibition of CDK activities.
The hypocholesterolemic effect of green tea catechin, (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate via upregulation of hepatic cholesterol 7 alpha‐hydroxylsae (CYP7A1) in cholesterol‐fed rat
Authors: Lee Mak‐Soon , Kim Yangha
Published: June 2021

There is an increasing interest in green tea (Camellia sinensis) as a protective agent against cardiovascular diseases with decreased blood total cholesterol and LDL‐cholesterol. In this study, the potential mechanism of the hypocholesterolemic effect of green tea was investigated by measuring cholesterol 7α‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1), a rate‐limiting enzyme in bile acid biosynthesis from cholesterol, at both enzyme activity and mRNA level. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed with green tea‐free, catechin or EGCG diet for 7 weeks. Hypercholesterolemia was induced by adding 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid to all diets. Catechin or EGCG diet decreased plasma total cholesterol by 23% or 34%, and LDL cholesterol by 32% or 52%, respectively. The catechin or EGCG diet up‐regulated CYP7A1 enzyme activity by 4.8‐ or 4.9‐fold and CYP7A1 mRNA level by 2.5‐ or 2.8‐fold, respectively. These findings suggest that the increases in the CYP7A1 gene expression may be a mechanism, which can partially account for the hypocholesterolemic effect of green tea. “This work was supported by the Korea Science and Engineering Foundation (KOSEF) grant funded by the Korea government (MOST) (No. M10510130005‐07N1013‐00510).”
Resistant starch is effective in lowering body fat in a rat model of human endocrine obesity
Authors: Robert Julina A. , Zhou Jun , Raggio Anne M. , Tulley Richard T. , McCutcheon Kathleen L. , Martin Roy J. , Keenan Michael J.
Published: June 2021

Endocrine obesity is a problem among females in the United States. Our previous studies show that resistant starch (RS) is effective in reducing body weight and fat in normal rats and mice. This study examined the effects of RS on abdominal fat and body weight in ovariectomized (OVX) and sham‐operated (sham) rats. Twenty OVX and 20 sham 10‐week old virgin female Sprague‐Dawley rats were purchased from Harlan. Rats were fed an energy control diet (EC, 3.27 kcal/g) for 6 wk prior to dietary treatment for measurement of energy intake and weight gain in the hyperphagic period after surgery. A 2x2 factorial was used as rats were then blocked by weight into diet treatment groups, and spent 13 wk on either an RS or EC diet. Data comparisons were significant at p < 0.05. OVX rats consumed more energy and gained more weight than sham rats in the pretrial period. For OVX and sham rats, energy intake, total gastrointestinal weight, large intestine/cecum weight (indicator of increased fermentation), and small intestine weight were higher in RS rats compared to EC rats. All abdominal fat pads were lower in RS rats compared to EC rats. RS rats had a lower disemboweled body weight compared to EC rats (p<0.06). This data indicate that RS was effective in lowering abdominal fat in an endocrine form of obesity compared to rats fed the EC diet, despite greater energy intakes for RS rats.

Grant Funding Source: NIH and LSU AgCenter
The Effects of Pistachios on Postprandial Glucose and Insulin Levels, Gut Satiety Hormones and Measures of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Kendall Cyril WC , Josse Andrea R , Jenkins David JA
Published: June 2021

Background: Nuts are associated with a reduced risk of CHD and Type 2 Diabetes possibly relating to their favorable fat, protein and antioxidant profiles. Moreover, nuts have also been shown to reduce serum LDL‐C. Previous studies have demonstrated that pistachios decreased the postprandial glycemic response of white bread in a dose‐dependent manner and attenuated the glucose excursions of common carbohydrate foods when consumed with 2oz of pistachios.

Objective: To assess the effect of pistachios on postprandial serum insulin levels, gut satiety hormone responses and measures of tissue oxidative stress.

Methods: After an overnight fast, 15 healthy subjects consumed 2 iso‐caloric test meals and 1 control meal in a randomized fashion, each separated by 1 week. Test meals, with similar macronutrient profiles, consisted of white bread (97g) plus 2oz of pistachios; white bread (97g) plus butter (14g) and cheese (68g). The control meal was white bread. Capillary finger‐prick and venous blood samples were taken and subjective satiety measures via a visual analogue scale were assessed over 3 hours. The relative glycemic and insulinemic responses were assessed by calculating the incremental area under the 3h curve (IAUC).

Results: Differences are assessed by least squares means with a Tukey adjustment for multiple comparisons. To be presented.

Funding Support: Western Pistachio Association
Effects of daily vegetable juice consumption on cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Kazaks Alexandra Garrison , Shenoy Sonia F , Holt Roberta R , Keen Carl L
Published: June 2021

Clinical and public health data underscore the health and economic benefits that would be realized if vegetable and fruit intakes meet recommendations. Yet, 9 out of 10 adult Americans do not meet vegetable recommendations due in part to barriers e.g, portability, preparation, price, palatability and perishability. The purpose of this study is to determine the acute and chronic effects of incorporating a vegetable beverage as part of a healthy diet [Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension Diet (DASH)] on known risk factors for cardiovascular disease in an adult population (40–65 years of age). Subjects are randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (0, 8 oz or 16 oz juice) for 12‐wks. The parameters measured include blood pressure (BP in mm Hg), platelet reactivity, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, blood lipids, glucose, anthropometric markers and quality of life. Results at the 6 week period show no significant changes among group in BMI, BP and C‐reactive protein. The 12‐week data set for the subjects will be presented. (Sponsorship: Research funding provided in part from Campbell Soup Company).
High Molecular Weight Chitosan Reduces Plasma Cholesterol in Healthy, Overweight or Obese Adults
Authors: Rockway Susie W. , Reynolds Valerie , Keim Kathy
Published: June 2021

Chitosan, a β‐linked copolymer of glucosamine and N‐acetylglucosamine, is positively charged and soluble in aqueous solutions at pH below 6.2 and has been shown in numerous animal and laboratory studies to bind to bile and fatty acids. This chemical association may explain, in part, the plasma cholesterol and triglyceride lowering seen in animals and some human studies. However, inconsistency in the chemical nature of this compound and various study designs in humans have left doubt that this polymer can impact lipid or weight status in humans. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a high molecular weight chitosan (viscosity ∼500 cP) supplementation on plasma lipids and body weight in 26 subjects randomized to either 4.8 g chitosan or placebo (cellulose). Six capsules were taken 10 minutes prior to two meals each day for 6 weeks. All subjects received weight‐loss counseling and recorded 3‐day food records each week. Total cholesterol and LDL‐c were significantly lower in the chitosan group vs. placebo (p = 0.03 and p = 0.01, respectively) after 6 weeks; however, HDL was also significantly decreased in the chitosan group (51 vs 45 mg/dL, p = 0.04). No significant changes were seen in body weight in either group. Thus, in this small study, chitosan did not appear to modulate body weight but did show cholesterol lowering affects.
D‐mannose consumption and bacterial anti‐adhesion activity in human urine
Authors: Howell Amy B
Published: June 2021

Ingestion of D‐mannose has been hypothesized to prevent bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract, since it is the uroepithelial cell receptor for Type 1 E. coli. There are few, if any, studies on effects of D‐mannose on UTI prevention, and it is questionable whether sufficient urinary concentrations are achieved to elicit an anti‐adhesion effect. The aim of this study was to determine if consumption of D‐mannose alters urinary bacterial adhesion activity. D‐mannose was administered (1,000 mg, 2,000 mg, and 4,000 mg) in single doses on subsequent days, with 3‐d wash‐out periods between doses. Urines were collected prior to mannose consumption and every 3 h for 12 h, and again at 24 h following ingestion. Urines were tested utilizing a mannose‐sensitive guinea pig red blood cell hemagglutination assay specific for Type 1‐fimbriated E. coli. Effective anti‐adhesion concentrations of D‐mannose were determined by a dilution series, followed by an activity threshold. Urinary pH averaged 6.5, eliminating a bacteriostatic effect. Over 50% of urines demonstrated anti‐adhesion activity; but, there was no relationship between level of activity and amount of mannose ingested. This suggests the measured anti‐adhesion activity was a “background” effect caused by endogenous excretion of Tamms‐Horsfall glycoprotein, and that ingested mannose did not affect anti‐adhesion activity. This work was supported by Theralogix, LLC.
Effects of supplementation with lactic acid bacteria isolated from Gajami sik‐hae on lipid and carnitine profiles in C57BL/6J mice fed high‐fat diet
Authors: Park Jeong‐Eun , Oh Suk‐Heung , Kim Jong‐Bu , Cha Youn‐Soo
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the effect of lactic acid bacteria isolated from Gajami sik‐hae (Korea traditional salt fermented flat‐fish, GL42) on obesity in C57BL/6J mice fed a high fat diet. Male C57BL/6J mice, aged 4 weeks, were divided in to four groups according to supplement concentration; NDC (normal diet & DW), HDC (high fat diet & DW), HD‐GL42H (high fat diet & 1×109 CFU per mouse), HD‐GL42L (high fat diet & 1×107CFU per mouse). After 12 weeks, GL42 reduced body weight without reducing energy intake, and caused a significant, specific reduction in epididymal and back fat. Concentrations of triglyceride and total cholesterol were significantly lowered in GL42 goups, whereas that of adiponectin was increased. Hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α were highest, but peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ as lowest in the GL42 groups. These results suggest that supplementing with lactic acid bacteria isolated from Gajami sik‐hae might have an antiobesity effect on high fat induced obese mice. (This work was supported by grant No. 10027215 from Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy)
Method of extraction influences the detected short chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration in human fecal samples
Authors: Timm Derek Allen , Stewart Maria , Slavin Joanne
Published: June 2021

Short chain fatty acids including acetate, propionate, and butyrate are produced by colonic bacteria during fermentation of dietary fiber. Fecal SCFA concentrations estimate total SCFA production, although 95% of SCFA are absorbed from the lumen. No “gold standard” for SCFA extraction from fecal samples has been established. This study compared two published SCFA extraction methods (aqueous‐AQ and diethyl ether‐DE) and (1) determined the reproducibility of each method by analyzing 10 samples from 1 common fecal specimen and (2) compared the two methods by extracting SCFA with each method from 10 individual fecal specimens. SCFAs were detected via GC‐FID. Data was compared by ANOVA and Wilcoxon rank‐sum test (SAS 9.1). AQ and DE extraction resulted in significantly different (P = .0001) mean SCFA concentrations when measuring 10 samples from the same fecal specimen. The distribution and means were significantly different for each SCFA when comparing the AQ and DE methods. AQ had higher mean acetate (P = 0.0015) concentrations, while the DE had higher mean propionate (P = 0.0147) and butyrate (P = 0.0002) concentrations. Formic acid, added in the AQ method, may be eluting with acetate causing increased acetate concentration. We conclude that SCFA extraction method significantly affects detected SCFA concentrations. Further research should be conducted to identify the optimal extraction method.
Adipocyte effects of xanthohumol
Authors: Mendes Vanda , Monteiro Rosário , Calhau Conceição , Azevedo Isabel
Published: June 2021

Adipocyte hypertrophy may constitute an initiating factor in the inflammatory state that occurs in obesity. Adipocyte size is largely determined by the rate of proliferation and differentiation of adipocytes. The aim of this work was to study the effects of xanthohumol (XN), a flavonoid from hops (Humulus lupulus L.), in adipose tissue. For this, its effect in proliferation, differentiation, lipogenesis, lipolysis and apoptosis was tested in 3T3‐L1 cells. XN decreased proliferation measured by SRB staining [IC50: 26 (19.9–34.5) μM, 12 (9.1–16.6) μM and 17 (11.6–27.9) μM after 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively]. At 5 μM, XN reduced preadipocyte Ki67 expression. XN decreased differentiation, measured by oil red O staining, and this effect was more pronounced when XN was present before or during induction of differentiation (47% of control). Apoptosis was increased, but only significantly in adipocytes. Incubation with XN (5 μM) did not change lipogenesis but reduced basal lipolysis. These results suggest that XN is able to reduce adipocyte number and basal lipolysis, which may contribute to increase the adipocyte size. Knowing the metabolic consequences of adipocyte hypertrophy, XN does not seem to contribute to the improvement of the metabolic profile associated with obesity. Supported by FCT (POCI, FEDER and Programa Comunitário de Apoio, SFRH/BD/12622/2003) and iBeSa (Instituto de Bebidas e Saúde).
Blueberry diets improve glucose tolerance and decrease oxidative stress in spontaneously hypertensive stroke‐prone rats
Authors: Shaughnessy Kevin Stewart , Gabor Les J , Gottschall‐Pass Kathy T , Sweeney Marva I
Published: June 2021

Metabolic syndrome, characterized by insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Eating fruits and vegetables benefits the symptoms of metabolic syndrome, and so we tested the effects of blueberries on insulin resistance in spontaneously hypertensive stroke‐prone rats (SHRSP). Control rats (WISTAR) and SHRSP were fed either a control AIN93G diet (CON) or a diet containing 1% or 3% freeze‐dried blueberry extract (BB) for 6 wks. All rats drank 2% NaCl. Plasma glucose and insulin were measured prior to and 15, 30, and 60 min following oral gavage of 40% glucose. The overall insulin response (AUC) to oral glucose was lower in SHRSP compared to WISTAR on CON diet (p<0.05), resulting in glucose being elevated in SHRSP at 15 minutes (p<0.001). In contrast, SHRSP fed 1% and 3% BB had insulin responses similar to WISTAR and there were no significant differences in plasma glucose levels between the groups. SHRSP showed signs of oxidative stress, with elevated levels of F2‐isoprostanes/creatinine in the urine (p<0.05). Feeding 3% BB lowered F2‐isoprostanes to normal values. There was no evidence of dyslipidemia in SHRSP. Our data suggest that SHRSP fed BB have less oxidative stress, and improved overall health. As well, feeding blueberries made animals better able to withstand a glucose challenge by increasing the insulin response, thereby decreasing blood glucose levels. Including blueberries in the diet may benefit metabolic syndrome. Funded by NSERC & Atlantic Innovation Fund.
Dietary Whole Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) Modulates Plasma Lipid and Cytokine Profiles, and Prevents Liver Toxicity in Response to Cholesterol‐Feeding in the JCR‐LA‐cp Corpulent Rat Model
Authors: MacDougall Colleen , Gottschall‐Pass Katherine , Neto Catherine , Hurta Robert
Published: June 2021

The antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties of natural products like cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) offer a novel approach to treating heart disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of dietary whole cranberry on parameters of atherosclerosis using the obese JCR: LA‐cp rat model. Four diet groups were assigned: control (CON), 1% added cholesterol (CHOL), 3% added cranberry (CRAN), and cranberry plus cranberry (CRAN + CHOL). Results show animals fed cholesterol have higher plasma low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (2 Way ANOVA; p = 0.015) and a lower high density lipoprotein (HDL) to LDL ratio (p = 0.003), while animals fed cranberry have higher HDL: LDL (p = 0.047). Furthermore, cranberry lowers levels of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐10, indicating these animals require less endogenous anti‐inflammatory protection. Tests of liver function indicate that cranberry is hepato‐protective: plasma AST levels, a chemical indicator of liver toxicity, were higher in animals fed cholesterol (p = 0.003), while cranberry reversed this effect. A similar trend was observed with another liver enzyme ALT. These results indicate that dietary cranberry, incorporated at physiologically relevant concentrations, has both cardio‐ and hepato‐ protective properties. [Funded by CIHR, PEI Health Research Program, and AIF through ACOA]
Maturational alterations of proliferation predominance of Hirsutella sinensis and Paecilomyces hepiali in natural Cordyceps sinensis
Authors: Zhu Jia‐Shi , Guo Yinglan , Lu Jihong
Published: June 2021

Cordyceps sinensis (Cs) has been used for centuries in China as a medicinal herb for Yin‐Yang double‐invigorations. We reported co‐existence of Paecilomyces hepiali (Ph) and Hirsutella sinensis (Hs) in Cs (FESAB 19:A1033, 2005; 21:A1079, 2007). In this study, 206 pieces of fresh Cs were collected in Kangding, Sichuan (Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau) in mid May (0–10 degree C) and late June (10–20 degree C). Of them, 120 pieces were immature Cs (T1) with a plump caterpillar body (CB) and a short stroma (Stm); and 86 were mature Cs (T2) with a less plump CB and a long Stm. Fresh Cs were washed and surface sterilized in 0.1% Mercuric Chloride for 2–10 min, followed by washing (3×) with sterile water. CB and Stm of 206 pieces of Cs were individually cut into pieces (1.5∼2.0 mm thick), and placed on top of slant PDAP culture medium. Culture was done at 10 degree C. Growth of Hs colonies was found in 82 tubes (39.8%) of Cs tissue slides: 61 (50.8%) of T1 Cs and 21 (24.4%) of T2 Cs (p<0.001). At the unfavorable low culture temperature, Ph was grown in 12 tubes (5.83%) of Cs tissue slides: 5.83% for T1 Cs and 5.81% for T2 (p>0.50). In conclusion, the proliferation predominance of Hs decreases along with Cs maturation, and of Ph needs to be further checked at an optimal temperature for Ph.
Dietary supplementation with glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) increases endogenous arginine provision, ornithine decarboxylase activity, development of the jejunum and growth performance in milk‐fed piglets
Authors: Yin Yulong , He Zhisang , Kong Xiangfeng , Hou Rongqing , Wu Guoyao
Published: June 2021

Physiological levels of cortisol stimulate intestinal polyamine synthesis, Interestingly, some herbal extracts contain glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), which has a chemical structure similar to that of cortisol. Twenty piglets with similar BW (2.9 kg) were assigned randomly to one of the 4 treatment groups, which received supplementation with 0, 0.01, 0.02 or 0.04% GA to the milk powder for 12 d. BW was measured on d 0, 5, and 12 for all treatments. On d 12, the blood was collected for an analysis of plasma amino acids and serum hormone concentration, and the jejunum samples were obtained for an analysis of ODC activity and morphology from the control and 0.02% GA treatment groups. Dietary supplementation with 0.02% GA resulted in the highest ADG among all of the treatment groups (P<0.05). Compared with the control, dietary supplementation with 0.02% GA increased feed intake by 14.8% (P>0.05), ADG by 20% (P<0.05), decreased the feed: gain ratio by 3.3% (P>0.05), improved the plasma arginine concentration(P<0.05), and increased the ODC activity in the jejunum on d 21 (P<0.05), but there was no effect on the other plasma amino acids and serum cortisol, GH and insulin concentration (P>0.05). Villus height in pigs treated with 0.02% GA was greater than that in the control pigs (P <0.05) on d 21 These results suggest that 0.02%GA increases endogenous arginine provision and ODC activity, and improves the morphology in the jejunum, and enhances growth performance in milk‐fed piglets.
Rosenthal fiber‐rich glioblastoma: A case report
Authors: Takei Hidehiro , Powell Suzanne Z
Published: June 2021

Background: Rosenthal fibers (RFs) are thick, elongated, brightly eosinophilic structures occurring within astrocytic processes. Although the presence of numerous RFs in brain tumor is most closely associated with a low‐grade astrocytoma, particularly pilocytic astrocytoma, a few RFs are recognized to occur, although rarely, in glioblastoma (GBM). We report a very rare case of GBM with abundant RFs.

Case Report: A 60‐year‐old woman presented with a six‐month history of difficulty coordinating her right hand, occasional intermittent diplopia, and occasional dizzy spells. An MRI showed a heterogeneously enhancing, infiltrating mass with cystic component involving left midbrain, thalamus, and posterior basal ganglia. Biopsy was performed. Cytologic touch imprints revealed fibrillary astrocytic cells possessing oval nuclei and long delicate processes with abundant RFs. Histologic sections showed diffusely infiltrating astrocytoma with prominent RFs diffusely distributed throughout the tumor, brisk mitotic activity, vascular proliferation, and small areas of necrosis, as seen in GBM. MIB‐1 labeling index was 7.1%. P53 immunoreactivity was not seen.

Discussion: This is a case of RF‐rich GBM, most likely de novo GBM. For the histological diagnosis, infiltrating astrocytoma with abundant RFs should be carefully examined in light of clinical information (e.g., patient age) and neuroimaging studies.
Incidentally Discovered Papillary Glioneuronal Tumor with 3‐Year Follow‐up
Authors: Newell Kathy L , Fiorella Russell M , Gianino John W
Published: June 2021

Papillary glioneuronal tumor (PGNT) is a newly recognized entity in the 2007 WHO classification of central nervous system tumors. We report a case of an incidentally detected PGNT discovered while yet clinically silent. A 20 year‐old pregnant woman suffered minor head injury and underwent CT and MR imaging, revealing a 6 cm right frontal lobe solid‐cystic mass. Neurosurgery was deferred until delivery of the infant. Repeat MRI 6 months later showed enlargement of the mass with development of significant edema and effacement of the right lateral ventricle. A right frontal craniotomy for tumor resection was then performed. Histologically, solid portions of the tumor included a pseudopapillary architecture with hyalinized vascular walls lined by small glial fibrillary acidic protein‐immunoreactive cells. Interspersed islands of round synaptophysin‐immunoreactive cells were also present. The cyst wall contained abundant Rosenthal fibers and areas of vascular proliferation with rare mitoses and modest Ki‐67 proliferative activity. Postoperatively, the patient developed infrequent complex partial seizures that have been well‐controlled with phenytoin. At 2.5 years following tumor resection, the patient is neurologically intact, and surveillance MRI shows no tumor recurrence. This unique case contributes additional insights into clinical presentation and behavior of this relatively benign WHO grade I tumor.
Neuropathologic Features of Corticectomies (Including Tubers) from Tuberous Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Mehta Rupal I , Salamon Noriko , Wu Joyce Y , Mathern Gary W , Khanlou Negar , Vinters Harry V
Published: June 2021

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a multisystem disorder in which hamartomas and tumors occur throughout the body. Associated CNS lesions include cortical tubers, subependymal giant cell astrocytomas and subependymal nodules. Cortical tubers are frequently epileptogenic and resection of tubers may improve epilepsy. We have reviewed histopathologic features of 18 resected corticectomies removed between 1991 and 2007 from patients with TSC. Patients included 6 males and 12 females (mean age of 5.1 months). Corticectomy was undertaken after clinical, scalp EEG, MEG/MSI and neuroimaging studies provided localizing evidence of epileptogenic zones. Cortical tubers were identified on MRI as hyperintense T2 signal abnormalities. Neuropathologic findings varied from scattered cytomegalic/dysmorphic neurons and balloon cells within otherwise well‐organized neocortex to large collections of balloon cells and/or cytomegalic neurons within either cortex or subcortical white matter. Calcinosis was noted in 14 cases. Selective immunohistochemical staining for Ki‐67 showed rare positive cells (<1%). Scattered GFAP positivity was seen in balloon cells and reactive astrocytes. Scattered neurofilament positivity was seen in dysmorphic neurons. Follow‐up of the patients for periods ranging from 6 months to 5 years has shown 61% to be seizure free after surgery. Support: GWM supported by NIH RO1 Grant NS38992