bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Trends, Dynamics and Correlates of Obesity: A 48‐country analysis of repeated surveys
Authors: Ng Shu Wen , Popkin Barry M
Published: June 2021

This study looks at the global trends (changes in prevalence per year) of growth in overweight and obesity for adult women, and some of the associated macroeconomic factors. It uses repeated (3–5 per country) nationally representative surveys with directly measured BMI data from 48 countries, representing developing countries in Asia (East, South and South‐east), Middle East, Africa (North, West and East), Latin America(Central, South), Russia, and also developed countries of the UK, USA and Australia. We summarize these trends and examine acceleration in annualized prevalence using development indicators such as per capita GDP, female education attainment, equality and fertility measures. The prevalence of overweight and obesity have grown significantly in the past 20 years. In particular, developing nations have higher rates of increase compared to developed nations. These upward trends are especially steep in countries like Nicaragua, Peru, China and Indonesia, while prevalence levels are consistently high in developed nations and the Middle East. Levels of education, urbanization and GNP per capita differentially affect these trends across the globe.
Timing of prenatal food supplementation influences birth outcomes in women experiencing stress in Bangladesh
Authors: Frith Amy Lynn , Frongillo Edward A. , Naved Ruchira T. , Persson Lars Ake
Published: June 2021

Maternal nutrition and stress have been implicated in adverse birth outcomes, yet their combined effects are unknown. This study's aim was to determine whether the timing of prenatal food supplementation influences birth outcomes depending on prenatal maternal stress. A cohort of 1041 pregnant women was studied from the randomized controlled field trail, Maternal Infant Nutritional Interventions Matlab, conducted in Matlab, Bangladesh. At 8 wk gestation, women were randomly assigned to an invitation to receive food supplement (600 Kcal/d; 6 d/wk) either early (~12 wk gestation) or later, the usual governmental program (~17 wk gestation). We collected one saliva sample from each woman between 7–8 am to measure morning concentration of cortisol as an indicator of response to stress. The early invitation to food supplement improved birth weight, head circumference, and tended to improve birth length compared to the usual‐invitation group, but only in women who had high response to stress. These results suggest that earlier prenatal food supplementation may be warranted for pregnant women who are more stressed. American Institute of Bangladesh Studies, Cornell Einaudi Center for International Studies
Indices of atherosclerosis in relation to total homocysteine and blood folate levels in Japanese adults
Authors: Nakazato Mio , Maeda Takahiro , Takamura Noboru , Kadota Koichiro , Nakashima Kenichiro , Tamura Tsunenobu
Published: June 2021

Elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) level is considered to be a biomarker of occlusive‐vascular disease (OVD). We evaluated the association of tHcy and plasma and erythrocyte folate (FA) levels with two indices of atherosclerosis (carotid intima‐media thickness [CIMT; normal < 1.0 mm] and cardio‐ankle vascular index [CAVI: normal < 8.0]) in a total of 434 healthy adults (343 females and 91 males) who participated in a population‐based survey in 2007. Their mean age was 63.8 (± 10.7, SD) years old, and they resided in western Japan. CIMT reflects the degree of atherosclerosis, and CAVI represents the stiffness of the aorta and arteries assessed based on the pulse‐wave velocity. There were significant correlations between CIMT and FA levels in plasma (r = −0.24, p <0.01) and erythrocyte (r = −0.24, p <0.05) in males. No such relations were found among females. The relationship between CIMT and plasma FA remained significant using the multiple linear‐regression analysis after adjusting for age and gender. Unexpectedly, the regression analysis indicated that there were no significant associations of CIMT or CAVI with tHcy in both genders. Our data indicate that blood folate levels may be a factor or biomarker for preventing the development of atherosclerosis in males. If this is confirmed in a larger population, further investigations are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of the association.
Transmembrane topology of the mammalian Zip14 metal‐ion transporter
Authors: Zhao Ningning , Knutson Mitchell
Published: June 2021

Zip14 belongs to the SLC39A family of metal‐ion transporters. Similar to general topology models of SLC39A proteins, Zip14 has been predicted to have 8 transmembrane domains with extracellular N‐ and C‐termini. In the present study, we used epitope tagging to investigate the topology of mouse Zip14. We inserted into Zip14 small antigenic FLAG peptides in the N‐terminus, C‐terminus, as well as the large extramembrane domain containing a histidine‐rich motif. The tagged proteins were expressed in HEK293 cells, and the polarity of the FLAG tags with respect to the plasma membrane were determined by immunofluorescence analysis of intact and permeabilized cells. Furthermore, glycosylation sites were identified by mutating each of the 5 potential N‐linked glycosylation sites, followed by Western blotting. Based on our analyses, combined with computer‐derived models, we conclude that mouse Zip14 has 7 transmembrane domains, an intracellular histidine‐rich region and c‐terminus, and an extracellular N‐terminus that is glycosylated at asparagines 52, 75, 85 and 100. The empirically determined structure of Zip14 will help to guide structure‐function analyses of this zinc/iron transporter.

Grant Funding Source: national institute of health
Slowly digestible starch diets alter proximal glucosidase activity and glucose absorption
Authors: Yan Like , Avery Stephen E. , Chacko Shaji K. , Fraley J. Ken , Vohra F. , Nichols Buford L. , Hamaker Bruce R.
Published: June 2021

Sucrase‐isomaltase (Si) and maltase‐glucoamylase (Mgam) are mucosal glucosidases required for digestion of starch to glucose. Ablation of maltase‐Mgam reduces in vivo starch digestion.

Aim

Test whether slowly digestible starch diets induce changes in glucosidase activities.

Methods

Rice starch was encapsulated in alginate microspheres to target small intestinal sites of starch digestion. Three groups of eight 8‐wk old mice were given a maize 13C‐starch test feed. Then they were fed rice maltodextrin, 0.5% rice starch microspheres, or 1% rice starch microspheres diets for 7 d, and a second maize 13C‐starch test feed. Blood 13C‐glucose produced from fed maize 13C‐starch was measured by GC‐MS. Activities of sucrase, maltase, and glucoamylase were measured by Dahlqvist assays.

Results

Absorption of glucose from 13C‐starch was suppressed by feeding slowly digestible starch diets (ANOVA 0.000). Correlation was found between jejunal Si and Mgam activities and glucose absorption from 13C‐starch (R2 0.64, 0.67). Jejunal Si and Mgam activities were correlated (R2 0.74).

Conclusions

1. Slowly digestible starch diets down‐regulate jejunal Mgam and Si activities. 2. Negative feedback on Si and Mgam activities regulates subsequent absorption of glucose from starch.

Grant Funding Source: internal funding
Molecular comparison of WT and F92A Caveolin‐1: Direction towards increasing Nitric Oxide bioavailability
Authors: Sharma Arpeeta , Yu Carol , Bernatchez Pascal
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION

Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by the loss of endothelial cell (EC)‐derived Nitric Oxide (NO) release and increased superoxide anion (O2−). Endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is the enzyme that synthesizes NO and O2− in physiological and pathological settings, respectively. Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1) is the major coat protein of caveolae that binds to and inhibits eNOS NO release, and we have shown that Cav‐1 F92 is the amino acid that inhibits NO release (Bernatchez, PNAS 2005). Interestingly, our unpublished observations show that F92A Cav‐1 mutant can INCREASE NO release.

OBJECTIVE

To determine how F92A Cav‐1 increases NO release

METHODS

We performed a biochemical comparison of WT vs F92A Cav‐1 to determine if the F92A mutation affects its activity. We also looked at Cav‐1 F92A substitution on eNOS O2− release.

RESULTS

WT Cav‐1 (25kDa) targets to caveolae and oligomerizes into high MW homo‐oligomers (350–600 kDa). Interestingly, F92A Cav‐1 enrichment in caveolae and homo‐oligomers are identical to WT Cav‐1, and by GST pulldown assays we show that WT and F92A Cav‐1 bind identically to eNOS. However, we have observed that F92A Cav‐1 can decrease O2− release as compared to WT Cav‐1.

CONCLUSION

These data show that F92A Cav‐1 binds eNOS, prevents WT Cav‐1 inhibition of eNOS and decreases O2− release, and suggest that eNOS‐Cav‐1 interaction is a therapeutic target for improving NO bioavailability.
Low‐tech anatomy ‐ Bringing back games, music and art!
Authors: Elzie Carrie
Published: June 2021

Many of the great, new teaching initiatives in gross anatomy have centered on technology. While I am strong proponent of technology‐driven teaching activities, I, like many anatomists, work in an anatomy lab devoid of any technology with little hope of change in today's economic climate. As dreary as that may sound, I would like to offer solace in the form of low‐tech teaching ideas for anatomy – games, music and art. Games are an easy low‐stress way to reinforce anatomy concepts and classical teaching techniques. For example, learning the foramina by which cranial nerves exit the head is a staple in anatomy, which is usually taught with pipe‐cleaners and skulls. I have prefaced this activity with a competition bean bag toss with the cranial nerves as the bean bags and the holes as the foramen. Other games that can be employed in the anatomy lab include scavenger hunts, twister, Pictionary and plinko. Practical directions on how to incorporate many types of games, music and art will be discussed in details for a low‐cost, low‐tech way to enhance anatomy teaching. While these activities may be low‐tech, they do not fall short on education or fun and offer a welcome change of pace to medical curricula.

Grant Funding Source: none
A novel seven‐layered approach to teaching body wall anatomy
Authors: Barker Jordan P , Livdahl Nicholas S , Morton David A
Published: June 2021

The anatomy of the body wall is traditionally presented as a vast litany of anatomic structures (i.e. Endothoracic fascia, Scarpa's fascia). Our objective was to show that the body wall could be more effectively presented using a seven‐layered pattern, which incorporates the litany of anatomic structures. From superficial to deep the seven layers consist of the skin, hypodermis, external muscle fascia, muscle, internal muscle fascia, extra‐coelomic tissue, and coelomic sac. To demonstrate this pattern, we constructed a 30‐minute PowerPoint presentation detailing the seven‐layered pattern in the thorax, abdomen, pelvis, perineum, and scrotum. The presentation was given to 84 medical and dental students who had previously been taught body wall anatomy using a traditional approach. Students completed a survey assessing their perception of the seven‐layered pattern. Results showed preference to the seven‐layered pattern over a traditional method when learning body wall anatomy. We conclude that it would be beneficial to incorporate this seven‐layered pattern into anatomic pedagogy to better help students see consistency between body wall regions and simplicity in trunk design.

Grant Funding Source: AAA
Taking a Close Look at the Little People: Is the Small Brain of Flores Hominid LB1 a Result of Island Dwarfism?
Authors: Martin Robert Denis , White Meghan W.
Published: June 2021

The type specimen (LB1) of the Flores hominid, identified as Homo floresiensis, had a strikingly small cranial capacity — just 400 cc. This tiny brain is quite aberrant compared with all other hominids because LB1 is only 18,000 years old. The grapefruit‐sized brain of LB1 has been attributed to island dwarfism. However, only limited reduction in brain size usually accompanies evolutionary reduction in body size in mammals. Two potential exceptions are the bovid Myotragus on Majorca and small‐bodied hippopotamuses on Madagascar. Both reportedly have smaller brain sizes than expected. But exceptionally small brain size is not universal in island‐living mammals. Candiacervus — the smallest deer on Crete — does not have an unusually small brain; nor does Homo erectus on Java. Although there is evidence that island‐living primates do tend to show smaller body sizes than mainland counterparts, associated effects on brain size have not been studied to date. To fill this gap, we are currently conducting a quantitative study of cranial capacity and body size in a large sample of long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). This species is very widespread across South‐East Asia, including Flores, and will permit a test of the hypothesis that brain size is reduced on islands.
Sweet Packets: What Glycomics can tell us about Viruses and Microvesicles.
Authors: Mahal Lara K.
Published: June 2021

Glycans, which coat the cell surface, are involved in the sorting of both proteins and lipids to membrane microdomains, thus they can act as molecular markers for trafficking pathways. Some viruses including HIV‐1, as well as membrane‐bound nanoparticles known as microvesicles are thought to derive from microdomains on the cell surface. A recent advance in glycomic technology, lectin microarrays, has made possible the rapid analysis of the carbohydrate composition of complex biological samples. Herein, we use this technology to study the glycomes of viruses, microvesicles and the host membranes of cell lines from they derive to gain biological insights into the composition and biogenesis of these particles.
Intrinsic Extracellular Matrix Properties Regulate Embryonic Stem Cell Fate
Authors: Engler Adam J
Published: June 2021

Epigenetic regulation of cell fate by intrinsic properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) appears to be an important but underappreciated contributor in development. Here we will show that undifferentiated embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can mature into an endoderm phenotype based on the 1) organization of the ECM protein fibronectin within the niche as well as 2) ECM elasticity, in a manner which is as sensitive as more canonical growth factor‐induced endoderm differentiation. Both intrinsic fibronectin‐based cues are time‐dependent, with matrix organization first pushing cells into a mesendoderm state and subsequently matrix elasticity of ~ 5kPa inducing definitive endoderm formation. The combination of both growth factors and ECM, however, does not appear to be additive and is suggestive of a more complex coupling via different signaling pathways. Endoderm induction via intrinsic matrix properties appears dependent on the appropriate ligation of α5β1 integrins which induce SRC kinase pathways and lead to endoderm expression.
Brain morphology of children with cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Chollet Madeleine Blair , Nopoulos Peg , Conrad Amy , DeLeon Valerie
Published: June 2021

Children with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) may suffer from specific cognitive deficits in rapid verbal labeling, verbal fluency, and short‐term memory, and ~35% have a reading disability that is similar to developmental dyslexia. Two recent neuroanatomical studies reported that children with CL/P have a smaller total brain volume than their peers, with a reduced cerebellum and frontal lobe and an enlarged occipital lobe, suggesting that cognitive deficits may be related to abnormal brain structure and development. The purpose of this study was to compare the brain shape of children with cleft lip and palate (CLP), cleft palate only (CP), and matched controls (n = 26), and to determine the effect of reading disability on brain shape. We used geometric morphometrics to analyze brain shape based on cortical and subcortical landmarks (k = 15) from MR data. Significant differences were found between controls and CLPs (α < 0.05), but not between controls and CPs or CLPs and CPs using Goodall's F‐test. Shape differences in CLP brains are due primarily to reorientation of the cerebellum and lengthening of the corpus callosum. Among CPs, brain shape differs between those with and without reading disability (p < 0.0005). This study is the first to characterize brain shape in children with CL/P and to document the association of reading disability and brain shape in children with CL/P.

Grant Funding Source: none
Surface anatomy as an entryway to clinical anatomy
Authors: Rizzolo Lawrence J
Published: June 2021

Like clinicians, we begin our course with a physical exam. Students palpate their donor and paint the bony landmarks that will help them locate and paint the surface projection of structures included in a general physical exam. The exercise introduces the skeleton in relation to the underlying organs. The body painting then guides common surgical incisions. Through these incisions, students discover whether their donor had an appendectomy, an enlarged liver, and so on. This correlates surface landmarks with underlying structures and clinical applications. Surface anatomy is revisited in subsequent labs by focusing on the history, physical, and surgical procedures of actual clinical cases. Surface anatomy is further emphasized by performing simulated nerve blocks. Surface anatomy locates the insertion point for the needle and the deep structures that will be palpated with the tip of the needle. Students learn where nearby, unintended targets are located and the consequences of injuring them. Instead of anesthetic, the students inject paint. Dissection reveals the painted structures to emphasize nearest‐neighbor relationships. The faculty that subsequently teaches physical exam reports that students retain more anatomy, which allows the class to make greater progress on the clinical content. The clinical faculty's enthusiasm is further demonstrated by their active participation in our lab exercises.
Complex Between GlcNAcylation & Phosphorylation is Extensive: Roles in Nutrient Sensing & Signaling
Authors: Hart Gerald W.
Published: June 2021

O‐linked beta‐N‐acetylglucosamine (O‐GlcNAc) serves as a nutrient/stress sensor to modulate metabolic processes and gene expression (for review, Nature 446, 1017–1022; Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 295: E17–E28). O‐GlcNAc plays a direct role in the etiology of diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, and cancer. Recent phospho‐proteomic and glycomic studies have shown that the crosstalk between GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation is extensive at the individual site level. This dynamic interplay not only occurs by competition at the same or proximal sites, but also by each modification regulating the other's cycling enzymes. For example, several kinases are regulated by GlcNAcylation, and phosphorylation regulates both O‐GlcNAc Transferase and O‐GlcNAcase. The elucidation of this extensive crosstalk between these two most abundant protein modifications will have a major impact on our view of signaling and transcriptional regulation. Examples of the importance of this dynamic interplay in the regulation of FOXO transcription factors, kinases, RNA polymerase II, and cytokinesis will be presented. It is now clear that GlcNAcylation plays an important role in glucose toxcity and in insulin resistance. Dr. Hart receives a share of royalty received by the university on sales of the CTD 110.6 antibody. Terms of this arrangement are managed by JHUSOM.
Mechanisms of Epigenetic Inheritance through DNA replication
Authors: Francis Nicole
Published: June 2021

The transcriptional status of a gene can be maintained through multiple rounds of cell division during development. This epigenetic effect is believed to reflect heritable changes in chromatin folding and histone modifications or variants at target genes, but little is known about how these chromatin features are inherited through cell division. DNA replication, which disrupts or dilutes chromatin associated proteins and histone modifications, poses a particular challenge for epigenetic information. To understand how chromatin based gene regulatory information can be propagated through DNA replication, we use cell‐free DNA replication systems to replicate defined templates. The effects of DNA replication on binding of chromatin associated proteins (such as Polycomb Group proteins), and on the position and composition of histones are assessed. Our results suggest that some Polycomb Group proteins can be maintained through DNA replication, and that the histones themselves may occupy the same DNA sequence before and after replication. Both of these mechanisms may contribute to transmission of regulatory information.
The alternative splicing factors PTB and nPTB control exon repression during neuronal development
Authors: Black Douglas L , Li Qin , Sharma Shalini
Published: June 2021

The polypyrimidine tract binding protein (PTB) represses the inclusion of many neuron‐specific exons. Upon neuronal differentiation, cells lose PTB and upregulate a neuron‐specific paralog, nPTB. The switch in expression from PTB to nPTB controls a program of alternative splicing in the developing brain involving exons that affect proteins involved in cytoskeletal assembly, protein trafficking, synapse formation, and neuronal survival. The role of this splicing program in neuronal development is not well understood. To investigate the in vivo function of nPTB and its targets in neurons, we generated a conditional knockout mouse of nPTB, using the Cre/Lox methodology. Splice‐junction microarray analysis and RT‐PCR identified many alternatively spliced exons that are misregulated in nPTB knockout brains. We are examining the cause of neuronal death in these mice. We are also studying the mechanism of splicing regulation by PTB in an in vitro splicing system. PTB binds to sequences flanking an exon to prevent its splicing in non‐neuronal cell extracts. We find that PTB blocks splice site pairing interactions required for formation of the spliceosomal B complex. We are currently examining the interactions of PTB that may mediate this effect on splicing complex assembly.
The Ubiquitin‐Proteasome‐System in Protein Quality Control and the Disposal of Protein Waste
Authors: Wolf Dieter H.
Published: June 2021

Life depends on the proper function of the cellular proteins. The correct conformation of a protein determines its biological activity. However, the occurrence of mistakes is inherent in biological systems. Protein folding mistakes are frequent. They occur during transcription‐translation, upon genetic mutations, cellular stresses like increased temperature, oxidation, toxic compounds or heavy metal ions. Thus, the cell must have a highly active protein quality control system and the ability to eliminate protein waste. Failure of these systems leads to severe protein folding diseases. Examples from humans are Alzheimer‐, Parkinson‐ or Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease. The eukaryotic model organism yeast has been a pacemaker in the eluciadation of these housekeeping processes of eukaryotes. The cytosol and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the organelle delivering secretory proteins to their site of action, are major sites of protein folding. Quality control includes the control of protein folding and the discovery of misfolded proteins. Elimination of misfolded proteins of the cytosol and the ER requires their translocation to different cytosolic ubiquitination machineries (ubiquitin conjugating enzymes and ubiquitin ligases) and delivery to the proteasome for degradation. For ER‐associated degradation (ERAD) retro‐translocation of misfolded proteins over the ER membrane into the cytosol is necessary. Chaperones of the Hsp70/Hsp40 type and ATP driven protein machines – Cdc48/p97 and its co‐factors – are major players in these processes.
Know Your Audience
Authors: Kennelly Peter J.
Published: June 2021

Effective grant writing is not about what is written down in a proposal. Effective grant writing is about what is communicated to the reader. Understanding the nature of your audience as well as the circumstances under which they typically labor represents one of the cornerstones of grantsmanship. The workload of a typical review panel is substantial. Two or three times each year, the members of the panel will be assigned a set of proposals, generally a dozen or more, for which they are asked to provide detailed critiques. The panelist must find time to read and evaluate these applications during fragments of discretionary time carved out from their already hectic personal and professional schedules. The ratio of applications to reviewers requires that each panel member be assigned proposals covering a range of topics. Reaching this oft‐beleaguered audience demands a disciplined approach that emphasizes clarity, completeness, and flow over mass.
Multifunctional quercetin overcomes rosiglitazone‐associated adiposity and inflammation during adiposity increase
Authors: Siriwardhana Nalin , Xin Wenting , Moustaid‐Moussa Naima
Published: June 2021

Obesity leads to increased risk for metabolic, cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). Currently used effective T2D treatments include rosiglitazone (RZ). Despite effectiveness of RZ in treating T2D, its side effects are of concern and include increased adiposity and subsequent inflammation are recognized as the basis for multiple disorders. We hypothesized that a carefully selected multifunctional natural bioactive compound may counteract RZ's negative effects and also will reduce adiposity associated inflammation. Therefore, we have selected widely available and multifunctional quercetin with promising anti‐adipogenic, anti‐diabetic and anti‐inflammatory bioactivities. Co‐treatment of quercetin with RZ significantly suppressed the RZ‐induced differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes into mature adipocytes. Further, quercitin significantly decreased lipid accumulation in mature differentiated adipocytes. Moreover, quercetin significantly reduced the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (specially monocyte chemoattractantprotein [MCP‐1]) and adipogenic protein markers (specially fatty acid synthetase [FAS]) from differentiating preadipocytes. In summary, quercetin co‐treatment effectively reduces RZ induced adiposity and is thus is an effective anti‐obesity and anti‐inflammatory compound. Research supported by TN AgResearch.
Like parent, like child: do children eat like the adults in the household?
Authors: Kranz Sibylle , Wagstaff David , Smiciklas‐Wright Helen
Published: June 2021

This study is based on data from a nationally representative sample of U.S. households in the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII 1994–96) to examine the relationship between the dietary intakes of the female heads of household (FHH) and 2–18 years old children residing in the same household (n=3144). Association between FHH's diet on childrens' intake was investigated by fitting multiple regression models controlling for socio‐demographic variables. Analysis was conducted by in STATA 10.1. FHH intake levels were only associated with those of male and female children for few food groups or nutrients: Regression coefficients were statistically significant between FHH's and male children's vegetables (0.63 (p‐value<0.001)) and vitamin A (0.65 (p‐value<0.001)) intakes while significant correlation coefficients between FHH's and female children's intake for vegetable intake was only 0.54 (p‐value<0.001) and meat (0.47 (p‐value<0.001)). This study indicates that correlations between dietary intakes of FHH and the intakes of the children residing in the same household were lower than anticipated. Further research is needed to understand the importance of adult modeling of dietary intake behavior on childrens' diets.

Support from NIH grant number: R503HD050239
Omega‐3 Fatty‐Acid Intake in Relation to Serum Lipid Concentrations in African‐Americans: Jackson Heart Study (JHS)
Authors: Landry Latrice Goosby , Taylor Herman A. , Carithers Teresa , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Tucker Katherine L.
Published: June 2021

Diets high in ω‐3 fatty‐acids (FA) are associated with healthier lipid profiles. This study examines the relationship between ω‐3 FA intake and serum lipids in a cohort of African‐Americans. Using SAS 9.1, we calculated mean intake of total ω‐3 FA, α‐linolenic (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docasahexaenoic (DHA) from a FFQ. We examined the association between percent of energy from ω‐3 FA(s) with high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride (TG) concentrations. Multiple regression adjusting for age, sex, and BMI was done including 4,771 members of JHS. Average intake of DHA+EPA was <0.5g/day and intake of ALA averaged 1.5g/day. Omega‐3 FA intake was not associated with LDL concentration. Percent ALA showed a marginally positive association with HDL cholesterol (p=0.06). A strong negative association was found between ALA (p=0.006) and TG concentration. No significant associations were found with DHA and EPA and serum lipids. The data show strong negative associations between ALA and ω‐3 with TG and a weaker positive association with HDL. Consistent with the literature, TGs were the most affected by ω‐3 intake. Clinical implications of this research should focus on increasing ω‐3 intake in this population to improve lipid profiles. Due to data limitations, supplemental intake of FA or lipid lowering medications were not controlled which could affect the results.

Grant Funding Source: N01HC95170
Dietary associations with chronic disease risk factors; legumes, MUFA and PUFA
Authors: Hirshberg Shira , Fernandes Jill , Lofgren Ingrid
Published: June 2021

Heart disease and diabetes are increasingly evident in younger populations. Two heart disease biomarkers are low concentrations of HDL‐C (men <40 mg/dL, women <50 mg/dL) and high Triacylglycerol (TAG) concentrations (>150 mg/dL). A cross sectional study of first year college students examined chronic disease markers and associations to diet. Elevated TAG and low HDL‐C were the most prevalent risk factors. Dietary information was collected via 24 hour recalls on NDS‐R for 3 nonconsecutive days. Two 12‐hour fasting blood samples were collected to measure TAG and HDL‐C. Mean age for females (n=128) and males (n=61) was 18.4 ± 0.6y. Mean BMI for females was 23.1 ± 4.0 mg/dL and for males was 24.6 ± 3.5. Mean TAG was 87.8 ± 45.6 and 104.3 ± 54.2 mg/dL for males and females, respectively. Mean HDL‐C was 53.6 ± 12.5 and 61.2 ± 14.7 mg/dL for males and females, respectively. Legume intake was 0.02 ± .05 cups and 0.04 ± .1 cups for males and females respectively. % calories from PUFA were 7.2 ± 2.1% and 6.8 ± 1.8% for males and females respectively and % calories from MUFA were 12.0 ± 2.5% and 11.0 ± 2.5% for males and females respectively. A small positive correlation (r =.24) was found between legume consumption and HDL‐C. % calories from MUFA and PUFA have a negative correlation with TAG. Increasing availability of legumes and dietary sources of PUFA and MUFA may be a way to decrease heart disease risk factors in young adults.
Influences of diet and physical activity on the change in body mass index and waist circumference in urban middle‐aged Chinese adults
Authors: Ma Jiantao , Hu Xiaoqi , McCrory Megan A , Ba Lei , Pan Hui , Ma Guansheng
Published: June 2021

We measured diet and physical activity at baseline and to investigate their relationship to changes in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) from 1998–2000 to 2002–2003 in 105 adults (51 men and 54 women) aged 35–49y at baseline and living in urban Beijing. Food intake was assessed with a 3‐day weighed food record, and physical activity was assessed by combining data from two activity monitors with a physical activity record. Both methods were validated in this population against the doubly labeled water method in our laboratory. Gender‐specific models were used because of clear overall interactions between gender and all predictors of BMI change (p=0.043) and WC change (p=0.053). For men, a higher physical activity level at baseline was associated with a decrease in WC (p=0.024) and a decrease in BMI (p=0.056). For women, physical activity was not a significant predictor of change in BMI or WC, but an increase in caloric beverage consumption was associated with gains in both BMI (p=0.042) and WC (p=0.022), and increased dietary protein was associated with a decrease in BMI (p=0.044). These findings suggested a gender effect on the relationship between diet, physical activity and weight change over time. Whereas physical activity was a significant predictor of 3‐year weight change in men, only dietary variables were significant in women in this population.

Research support: Nestle Foundation.
Obesity and microglial activation: potential for synergism in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Sheridan Patricia A
Published: June 2021

This study examines high fat diet feeding and obesity as a factor leading to the uncontrolled production of neuroinflammatory molecules by microglia, a hypothesized mechanism in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. We hypothesize that the inflammation resulting from a high fat diet and obesity activate microglia in the brain leading to increased neurodegeneration and will potentiate the neuroinflammation from a CNS insult. Weanling male mice were placed on a low fat (LF) or a high fat (HF) diet. After 4 weeks on the diet there is a modest, but significant, increase in leptin receptor expression on microglia from HF mice. In addition, there is a significant increase in the expression of toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2 on HF microglia. After 8 weeks, microglia from HF mice have significantly more TLR4/MD‐2 than LF microglia. MHC II is present on cells from both LF and HF mice at levels that are normally seen in young, healthy mice and there is no difference in MHCII expression between LF and HF microglia at these early time points. These data indicate that several cell surface proteins associated with microglial priming and activation are up‐regulated after only 4–8 weeks on a HF diet. As our population ages and becomes increasingly obese, the implications of diet on age related neurological conditions are a significant public health concern.

This study was supported by the UNC NORC Grant DK56350.
Intermittent Bolus Feeding Has a Greater Stimulatory Effect on Protein Synthesis in Skeletal Muscle than Continuous Feeding in Neonatal Pigs
Authors: Gazzaneo Maria C , Torrazza Roberto Murgas , Suryawan Agus , Orellana Renán A. , Srivastava Neeraj , Nguyen Hanh V. , Wilson Fiona A. , Fiorotto Marta L. , Davis Teresa A.
Published: June 2021

Feeding by orogastric tube, using either continuous or intermittent bolus delivery, is common for infants for whom normal feeding is contraindicated. To determine the impact of different feeding modalities on muscle protein anabolism, neonatal pigs (5–7 day old) received a balanced enteral formula either by intermittent bolus (B, n=7) every four hours or were continuously fed (C, n=5). Fractional protein synthesis rates and translational control mechanisms in skeletal muscle were examined at 0, 24 and 25.5 hours. Plasma amino acid and insulin levels were modestly increased in the continuously fed group and in the bolus group mimicked the pulsatile pattern of meal feeding. Feeding increased protein synthesis by 53% in the continuous group, by 63% in the bolus group before a meal, and by 126 % after a bolus feed. The activation of eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) 4E binding protein (4EBP1), rp S6 kinase 1 (S6K1), protein kinase B (PKB), dissociation of 4EBP1‐eIF4E complex, and formation of the active eIF4E‐eIF4G complex were unaffected by continuous feeding but were increased more than 10 fold after a bolus meal. These results suggest that intermittent bolus feeding increases muscle protein synthesis to a greater extent than continuous feeding by stimulating translation initiation. (Supported by NIH grants AR‐44474 and AR‐51563 and USDA/ARS 6250510000‐33).

Grant Funding Source: NIH grants AR‐44474 and AR‐51563 and USDA/ARS 6250510000‐33
Polydextrose enrichment of infant formula acts as a prebiotic by increasing ileal lactobacilli and lactic acid concentration and decreasing pH
Authors: Herfel Tina M , Jacobi Sheila , Lin X , Walker D C , Jouni Z E , Odle Jack
Published: June 2021

Oligosaccharides, the 3rd largest component in human milk, are virtually absent from cow's milk and most infant formula. Polydextrose (PDX) is a proposed substitute for human milk oligosaccharides. One‐day old pigs were fed a cow‐milk‐based formula supplemented with PDX (0, 1.7, 4.3, 8.5 or 17 g/L) for 18 days (n=13). Additional reference groups included 12 pigs sampled at day 0 and 12 sow‐reared pigs sampled at day 18. Ileal lactobacillus CFU, but not bifidobacteria, increased linearly with increasing PDX (P = 0.02). Short chain fatty acids did not differ among treatments, but lactic acid increased linearly with PDX (P = 0.001). Lactic acid increased ten‐fold over control pigs in those supplemented with 8.5 and 17 g/L PDX. Accordingly, digesta pH decreased linearly (P < 0.05) as PDX increased, with a maximal reduction approaching 0.5 pH units in those fed 17 g/L. Ileal villus height, crypt depth, maltase, myeloperoxidase and the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes were not affected by dietary PDX (P > 0.1). Polydextrose enrichment of infant formula acted as a prebiotic by increasing lactic acid production and decreasing pH. Research supported by Mead Johnson Nutrition.

Grant Funding Source: Mead Johnson Nutrition
Miracle fruit prior to consumption of a sour low‐sugar dessert enhances sweetness and reduces energy intake
Authors: Wong Janine , Kern Mark
Published: June 2021

When ingested prior to consumption of acidic foods, Synsepalum dulcificum, also known as miracle fruit (MF), induces a sweet taste. Our goal was to determine if MF enhances sweetness and acceptability of a sour, low‐sugar dessert and reduces energy intake. Subjects (n=15) completed 4 trials in a randomized cross over design. Subjects ate standardized breakfast and lunch meals. Lunch was followed by lemon juice based popsicles that were either regular (REG), sucrose sweetened (204 kcal) popsicles or a sour, low‐sugar (34 kcal) version (DIET) with or without MF intake preceding consumption. Pre‐weighed food for the rest of the day was provided and consumed ad libitum. Uneaten food was returned the following day and weighed. Popcicles were evaluated for acceptability using a 9‐point hedonic scale; sweetness and fullness were assessed by visual analog scales. Subjects rated DIET as sweeter when consumed after MF (62 ± 33 mm vs. 30 ± 39 mm, p<0.05); however, there was no difference in hedonic preference for DIET with or without MF. Subjects did not detect a difference (p>0.05) in sweetness for REG in comparison to DIET with MF. Consumption of DIET with MF produced lower energy intake in comparison to REG with (−195 ± 296 kcal; p = 0.028) and without (−188 ± 334 kcal; p = 0.055) MF. Therefore, incorporating MF before eating acidic, low‐calorie desserts may help to lower intake in comparison to a high calorie dessert.
Plasma quercetin response to 12‐weeks supplementation: a randomized community clinical trial
Authors: Jin Fuxia , Nieman David C , Shanely R. Andrew , Knab Amy M , Austin Melanie D
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine if plasma quercetin response in humans is related to gender, age, body mass index (BMI), and other demographic and lifestyle factors. Subjects (N=1,002, ages 18 to 85 years, 60% female and 40% male) were recruited from the community and randomized to one of three groups, with supplements administered using double blinded procedures: Q‐500 (500 mg/day), Q‐1000 (1000 mg/day), or placebo. Fasting blood samples were obtained pre‐ and post‐study, analyzed for plasma quercetin, and then compared between and within groups by gender, age group (<40, 40–59, and ≥60 years), BMI (<25, 25–29.9, and ≥30 kg/m2), self‐reported physical fitness level and diet intake (food group servings). A subgroup of 170 subjects provided additional fasting blood samples after one and two months supplementation. Quercetin supplementation over 12 weeks caused a significant increase in overnight‐fasted plasma quercetin, with a net increase of 332±21.0 and 516±30.8 μg/L for Q‐500 and Q‐1000 compared to 53.6±6.4 μg/L for placebo (interaction effect, P<0.001). The increase in plasma quercetin was achieved within the first month and maintained for the rest of the study. The increase in plasma quercetin was highly variable within each quercetin supplementation group, but was unrelated to age, gender, BMI, fitness levels, or dietary intake.

Supported by grants from Coca‐Cola and Quercegen Pharma.
Finding high‐fiber snack foods for preschoolers in stores: no easy feat
Authors: Kranz Sibylle , Lamb Kristi , Rush Sally , Johnson Heather
Published: June 2021

Preschoolers usually consume smaller amounts of food but eat more frequently than older children or adults; snack foods comprise a large proportion of preschoolers' daily energy intake. Foods that are high in fiber have been found to increase satiety in adults and might reduce the number of snacks in children. We set out to investigate the availability and pricing of high‐fiber grain‐based snack foods that could be offered in lieu of the usual snacks at daycares. Three local grocery stores from store chains were selected in NC and visited during summer of 2009. A comprehensive list of available grain‐based snacks with at least 3 grams of fiber per serving was generated. Products (n=90) ranged from $1.89–$4.99 in price and fiber density ranged from 1.4 g/100 kcal to 23.3 g/100 kcal or 0.1 g/ounce to 1.4 g/ounce of product. High fiber products were exclusively plain bran cereals or oatmeal requiring preparation with warm/hot fluids. Lower fiber items were sweetened cereal or cereals bars. Most of the products contained nuts or other allergens. Our results indicate that finding high‐fiber snack foods appropriate for preschool‐age children is complicated by the price and the nature of the available foods. Further studies are needed to examine the potential for developing tasty, affordable, and healthy snack foods for 2–5 year old children.
Perceived barriers for consumption of fruits and vegetables
Authors: Fitzgerald Nurgul , Czarnecki Nicole , Mathew Teena , Hallman William
Published: June 2021

Limited access to affordable fruits and vegetables can be a barrier against healthful eating patterns, and farmers markets can help improve this access. This study, which was conducted during the development of a farmers market, describes the perceived barriers towards eating fruits and vegetables in an urban setting with high proportions of minorities and low‐income individuals.

Participants (n=542, 25% male, 74% female) were recruited at the New Brunswick Community Farmers Market, surrounding neighborhoods, and community organizations/events. About 48% of the participants were Hispanic, 26% were black, and 19% white. About 47% of the participating households were highly/marginally food secure, 33% indicated low food security, and 20% indicated very low food security. The most highly cited barrier was the expensiveness of fruits and vegetables (50% and 39%, respectively). Limited variety (38%), inadequate freshness (32%), and limited availability (21%) were also cited by the participants. Perceived barriers were reported more by the participants with household food insecurity (vs. high/marginal food security) (p<0.05). Inadequate variety and freshness, and high prices (rather than general availability) seem to be more commonly perceived barriers to eating fruits and vegetables among adults, especially among those with food insecurity, in this urban setting. Funded by Johnson & Johnson.
Infant feeding support strategy reduces growth faltering in late infancy among infants of HIV‐infected mothers in urban Haiti
Authors: Heidkamp Rebecca A , Stoltzfus Rebecca J , Fitzgerald Daniel , Pape Jean W
Published: June 2021

There is growing consensus about strategies to reduce mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV through breastmilk during early infancy (0–5 mo) in low‐income countries, but less research on feeding in late infancy (6–12 mo) when risk of growth faltering is high. We evaluated a program strategy to support infant nutrition at GHESKIO, a clinic serving poor HIV‐infected mothers in Port‐au‐Prince, Haiti. In 2008–09, 82 six‐mo‐old non‐breastfed HIV‐exposed infants were enrolled in a 6‐month intervention that included a daily ration of micronutrient‐fortified ready‐to‐use supplementary food, monthly “mothers club” sessions for infant feeding education, and monthly individualized growth monitoring/counseling. Data was collected on growth, anemia, dietary intake, morbidity, compliance, caregiver knowledge, satisfaction and program feasibility. Outcomes in participants were compared to infants seen at GHESKIO in the previous year (n=174). At age 6 months, stunting (LAZ<−2 WHO 2006) prevalence was slightly higher in intervention group than in controls (NS). Among 12‐mo‐olds, stunting was 9.6% in the intervention cohort vs. 20.8% in controls (p<.05) and wasting (WLZ<−2) 2.7% vs. 8.7% in controls (p=.074). The program was highly acceptable to mothers and feasible to implement in the clinical context. Research support was provided by Cornell's Einaudi Center, Weill Cornell Center for Global Health, and PEFPAR.

Grant Funding Source: NIH
Luteolin and chicoric acid synergistically inhibited inflammatory responses via inactivation of PI3K‐Akt pathway and impairment of NFκB translocation in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Park Chung‐Mu , Song Young‐Sun
Published: June 2021

The synergistic effect of luteolin and chicoric acid, two major constituents of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Weber), was investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. The optimum mixing ratio of luteolin and chicoric acid was 1:2. The anti‐inflammatory activity was compared using mRNA and protein expression levels, which were attributable to the suppression of inflammatory mediators, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β. Cytoprotective enzyme, heme oxygenase (HO)‐1, and its corresponding transcription factor, nuclear factor (NF)‐E2‐related factor (Nrf)‐2, were increased by luteolin and chicoric acid co‐treatment. In addition, synergistic effect was further examined whether inflammatory response was related to NF‐κB activation in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) or phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐Akt pathway, inflammatory signaling pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. Luteolin and chicoric acid co‐treatment inhibited phosphorylation of IκBα, p65 and Akt, while gave no effect on extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK), and p38. These results suggest that two phenolic compounds synergistically attenuate LPS‐induced inflammation via inactivation of PI3K‐Akt pathway and impairment of NFκB translocation in RAW 264.7 cells.