bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the nutritional risk among vulnerable seniors
Authors: Hong Mee Young , Min Jong Won , Elkins Patcharie , Piwowarski Maureen
Published: June 2021

Balanced nutrition is an essential component to successful aging and quality of life through maintenance of physical health, mental functioning, and social engagement. The importance of nutrition is more pronounced in economically vulnerable seniors. The purpose of the study was to determine the level of nutritional risk and examine factors significant to the nutritional risk status of low‐income senior meal program participants. Data came from 1,750 participants (843 men, 893 women) aged 60+, served by senior meal programs in San Diego County. A ten‐item measure of Nutritional Risk Status was used. Results showed that 22.4% were at moderate risk for malnutrition and 68.7% malnourished, while only 8.9% had a good nutritional status. Those with the highest nutritional risk included Hispanics (P=0.007), Blacks (P=0.004), and those with an income at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (P<0.001). Married participants had the lowest nutritional risk compared to other marital statuses (P <0.001). Home delivered meal participants had higher nutritional risk than congregate meal participants (P<0.001). Raising awareness of nutritional status may motivate at‐risk groups of seniors to initiate steps toward improving their health. Education and outreach strategies appropriate for these groups should be considered. Further efforts are warranted to ameliorate the nutritional status of vulnerable seniors.
The feasibility of incorporating whole grains into the diet of older populations
Authors: Gorski Sara Ann , Rosen Renee , Arndt Elizabeth A. , Marquart Len
Published: June 2021

Less than five percent of adults meet the Dietary Guidelines recommendations of consuming at least half their grains as whole grains. The purpose of this research was to gain a better understanding of whole grain consumption among 40 older adults, mean age 78 years. Focus groups were conducted to examine current knowledge and practices of residents regarding whole grain products in assisted and free living facilities. Qualitative data analyses were used to generate themes. Residents perceived that whole grains provide benefits such as a healthy addition to the diet, good taste/texture and improvement in some medical conditions. Barriers related to whole grains included cost, availability, package size and hard/dry texture. Factors reported that influence whole grain consumption include family, medical professionals and the assisted living facility. Residents had difficulty identifying whole grain and fiber containing foods. Acceptance of five whole grain products was also determined based on survey questions regarding taste, texture, appearance and overall liking of each product. Preliminary taste test results of whole grain food samples indicated the muffin was the most accepted product and hot cereal the least. Older adults’ ability to identify, purchase, prepare and consume whole grains may be limited by a lack of knowledge and familiarity with whole grain products, cost of whole grains, persons of influence, and other facility‐related circumstances.

Grant Funding Source : ConAgra Foods
Reelin signaling in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex contributes to age‐related alterations in cognitive function
Authors: Stranahan Alexis M
Published: June 2021

Reelin, a glycoprotein implicated in synaptic plasticity, is expressed by entorhinal cortical layer II neurons that project to the hippocampus. Here we report that an age‐related reduction in reelin expression in the entorhinal cortex is associated with cognitive decline. Using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, we observed decreases in the number of Reelin‐immunoreactive cells and reelin mRNA expression in the lateral entorhinal cortex of aged rats that are cognitively impaired relative to young adults and aged rats with preserved cognitive abilities. By contrast, hippocampal reelin signaling decreased with age and was not correlated with cognitive status. The lateral entorhinal cortex of aged rats with cognitive impairment also exhibited changes in other molecular markers, including increased accumulation of phosphorylated tau and decreased synaptophysin immunoreactivity. Interference with reelin signaling in the lateral entorhinal cortex of young rats was sufficient to impair both cognition and synaptic marker expression. Taken together, these findings suggest that reduced reelin expression, emanating from layer II entorhinal neurons, may contribute to network dysfunction that occurs during memory loss in aging.

Grant Funding Source: startup
Novel anti‐osteoclastogenic effect of dietary phloretin on RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation in murine macrophages
Authors: Kim Jung-Lye , Kang Young-Hee
Published: June 2021

Bone resorption and formation is imbalance resulting in more bone resorption than bone formation leads to osteoporosis. Osteoclasts were multi‐nucleated cells when exposed to RANKL and activiation bone resorption. Phloretin is a natural dihydrochalcone compound extracted from apple. This study investigated that phloretin effect on the RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. Cells were incubated with 1–20 μM phloretin for 5 d in presence receptor activator of NF‐κB lignad (RANKL). Phloretin inhibited the RANKL induced the multi‐nucleated osteoclasts and bone resorption area in cells. It was found that 1–20 μM phloretin restrained tartrate‐resistance acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) secretion in a dose‐dependent manner. Phloretin treatment reduced carbonic anhydrase II and V‐ATPase D2 and integrin β3 expression elevated by RANKL. It was also found that phloretin diminished Cathepsin K expression and secretion elevated by RANKL through disturbing TRAF6‐NF‐κB signaling pathways, suggesting that differentiation osteoclast and bone resorption of phloretin entail deprivation of NF‐κB pathways. Also, phloretin inhibited RANKL induced activation transcription factors (NFATc1 and MITF). Therefore, phloretin was potential therapeutic agents for the osteoclast differentiation and boen resorption.
Calcium nutritional status affects the interrelationships between α and β CTX bone markers in children in pre puberty ages
Authors: Rio Maria Esther , Dupraz Hernán , Zago Liliana
Published: June 2021

The bone marker α‐CTX is significantly affected by calcium nutritional status (CNS) during the phase of growth in children in the pre puberty ages whereas β‐CTX seems not to be related to that variable. This situation appears as a promissory secondary index to assess bone maturation through the ratio between both (α/β) at ranges of CNS as nutritional reference. Here, changes in bone maturity were related to three CNS in 180 both sex children 6 to 9 years old with paired data for the three determinations performed in basal urine samples: both CTX (NB‐Denmark) and the ratio between Ca to creatinine (Ca/Cr). Reference values for CNS were: Ca/Cr: <0,07, deficient (D); 0,07–0,15, adequate (A) y > 0,15, high (H). ANOVA test with GraphPad was used. When plotted versus age according CNSα/β ratio data adjusted to a binomial equation for D (y=−0,055x2 0,0798x+1,5666; R2=0,9936) and H (y=−0,0657x2 +0,2707x +1,2768 R2 = 0,8339) curves whereas for the A group the best fitting is the lineal one: (y= 0,1952x + 1,8416; R2=0,9174 being significantly different from D and H. Calcium nutritional status can modulate interrelationships between bone markers associated to maturity progress. Supported by UBACyT B/060.2.HD. Doctoral Fellowship from UBCyT
Prevalence and Determinants of Overweight and Obesity in a National Sample of 5–12 Years Old Lebanese Children
Authors: Nasreddine Lara , Naja Farah , Akl Christelle , Adra Nada , Sibai Abla , Hwalla Nahla
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Lebanese children, and to examine associated socio‐demographic, lifestyle and dietary covariates. Based on weight and height measurements obtained from a national cross‐sectional survey conducted in 2009 on 5 – 12 years old subjects (n=493), BMI was calculated. Overweight and obesity were defined according to WHO 2007 growth standards. The association between overweight (including obesity) and baseline socio‐demographic, lifestyle and dietary covariates was examined. Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were higher among boys as compared to girls (40.0% vs. 34.7% and 20.8% vs. 11.4%, respectively). Saturated fatty acids intake was significantly greater among overweight and obese children compared to their normal weight counterparts (23.64 vs. 20.81 g/d, respectively). Odds of overweight were significantly lower among children living outside the capital Beirut (OR=0.33) and among those consuming daily breakfast (OR=0.29). Odds of overweight were significantly higher among sedentary children (OR=1.44) and among girls with higher maternal educational level (OR=2.24). Findings of this study underline high levels of childhood overweight and obesity in Lebanon and call for national intervention programs to control this epidemic.

Study funded by CNRS‐Lebanon, TEPHINET (US) and WHO
School‐age children might be the best source of information for their digestive health
Authors: Kranz Sibylle , Brauchla Mary , Miller Kevin
Published: June 2021

Bowel movement frequency and stool consistency are important components of children's well‐being, activity, and academic performance. We conducted a pilot study on obtaining these data from school‐age children using a “Regularity Assessment Questionnaire” (RA) in 22 child/parent dyads (41% boys, 7–11 years) who completed a child‐ and a parent‐version of the RA: 8 questions and a picture‐based tool to help classify stool consistency. The RAs were completed weekly for 4 weeks and parents completed a questionnaire summarizing their experience with the RA, their children's understanding of the questions, and the ease of completing the RA. 91% of parents reported that the RA was easy to complete and children understood each of the questions. Interestingly, 50% of parents estimated that children answered “very accurately” and 50% thought the child responded “accurately”. However, more than 60% of the parents reported not to have seen their child's bowel movement in the past week. The matching of responses between the child and the parent increased weekly, ranging 15% – 95%, depending on the question. 5–22% of parents helped their child, 80% only did so the first time. Overall, children in this sample were comfortable reporting on their bowel movements and other questions related to digestive function; studies focusing on digestive health in children should use the child, not the parents, as source of this information.

Grant Funding Source : The Kellogg Company
An examination of certain foods which may predict a zinc deficiency
Authors: Cadet Sarah , Harland Barbara , Oberleas Donald
Published: June 2021

Phytate (also known as phytic acid or inositol hexaphosphate (IP6)) is a form of phosphorus found in grains, beans, nuts, and a variety of other plant‐based foods. It is frequently consumed in over‐abundance throughout the world where a vegetarian/vegan diet is customary. Phytate binds very tightly with minerals, causing the inhibition of absorption/re‐absorption of di‐valent cations, especially zinc. Zinc is essential for numerous functions in the body, such as providing structural integrity to enzymes as a cofactor, and as an essential component of zinc‐finger proteins. Zinc deficiency is common in regions where phytate consumption is high. A phytate:zinc molar ratio defines homeostasis of zinc from foodstuffs. When the phytate:zinc molar ratio is ≥ 10, a zinc deficit is defined. Phytate HPLC methodology has been used to determine the amount of phytate in foods. Available zinc values will contribute to calculations of the pertinent phytate:zinc molar ratio of each food. This study will present analytical phytate:zinc values for several common foodstuffs. Funding for this research has come from the Howard University Nutritional Sciences Department, Washington, D.C.
The effect of weight loss on quality of life in obese adults: A study using physical activity and dietary intervention
Authors: Lee Yi Yi , Manan WM Wan Abdul , Rohana A.J. , Mohamad W.B. Wan , Ruhani H. , Ooi G.S. , Rubiah O. , Suzuki M.
Published: June 2021

This study was carried out to evaluate the maintenance of weight after completing a 12‐week weight reduction program and to record the compliance in continuing the dietary regiment and physical activity during a follow‐up study. This is a repeated measure design to identify the changes in quality of life among participants through three levels of time (pre, post and follow‐up periods). Respondents were assigned into 4 groups using a quasi‐experimental approach which fulfilled the following criteria: BMI>28.0 kg/m2, adults and volunteers. All the four groups (N=60) went through a basic intervention and had performed different packages for 12 weeks as follows: Group 1: Package I (Basic Intervention + Music Therapy + Aerobic Exercise), Package II (Basic Intervention + Aerobic Exercise + Record Keeping), Group 3: Package III (Basic Intervention + Music Therapy + Dumbbell Exercise + Record Keeping), Group 4: Package IV (Basic Intervention + Aerobic Exercise + Dumbbell Exercise + Record Keeping). Quality of life of participants was evaluated by using the SF‐36 questionnaire. The results showed that there was a significant difference of means (p<0.05) for anthropometric variables and quality of life scores. There was an improvement in quality of life among respondents after their weight loss and weight maintenance through compliance of nutritional intake and physical activity.

Grant Funding Source: Prof Masashige Suzuki
Teacher‐Perceived Barriers, Facilitators, and Motivators to Providing Nutrition Education in Head Start Classrooms
Authors: Dipper Allison , Riggsbee Sydney , Anderson Michelle , Carraway-Stage Virginia , Goodell L. Suzanne
Published: June 2021

Young children are capable of learning and understanding basic information about health and nutrition. The earlier a child is exposed to nutrition education (NE), the greater the opportunity for establishing healthy habits early in life. Uniquely, federal policy requires the provision of nutritious meals, snacks and NE to all children enrolled in Head Start (HS) programs. Teachers play a vital role in the provision of NE in the preschool classroom. Research investigating teacher barriers, motivators, and facilitators (BMF) to implementing NE in the preschool classroom are limited. However, K‐12 teachers have reported time, training, available curricular materials and administrative support as common issues. In‐depth individual telephone interviews were conducted with HS teachers to determine perceived BMF to NE in the preschool classroom. Teachers discussed a personal interest in the topic as it relates to children's long‐term health as a motivator; policy, training, and support from parents and administratiors as facilitators; and lack of time, resources (materials and lessons), and personal knowledge as major barriers to implementing NE in their classrooms. Results will be used to inform future NE interventions in the preschool classroom. Understanding teacher BMF can improve young children's long‐term health‐related behaviors through increased access to quality NE.
Development of a Questionnaire to Measure Nutrition Knowledge in Adults
Authors: Jones Anna Marie , Lamp Catherine , Neelon Marisa , Nicholson Yvonne , Schneider Connie , Swanson Patti Wooten , Zidenberg-Cherr Sheri
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to develop a valid and reliable questionnaire to measure nutrition knowledge in adults. A pool of questions was assembled from existing questionnaires with new questions written based on national dietary recommendations. Cognitive interviews were conducted (n=20), followed by a mail‐based pilot test. Four hundred randomly‐selected addresses in California received a questionnaire, and 94 were returned (24% response rate). Pilot test data were used to measure internal consistency, item discrimination, and item difficulty. Items that did not meet predefined criteria for these were removed. Following the pilot test, a sample of 21 non‐nutrition and 24 nutrition students were recruited to evaluate test‐retest reliability and construct validity of the final questionnaire. Each questionnaire section was found to have adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's α=0.85; 0.81; 0.81). Test‐retest reliability, measured by correlation between first and second questionnaire scores for each section, was moderate to high (r=0.90; 0.60; 0.80) with total reliability equal to 0.93. Knowledge scores were significantly higher in nutrition students than non‐nutrition students, as determined by student's t‐test (p<0.001). Results suggest the questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for measuring nutrition knowledge. This study was funded by the Henry A. Jastro Graduate Research Award.
Exposure to calcium‐rich foods lessons increases nutrition knowledge among 5th‐grade students
Authors: Linnell Jessica , Briggs Marilyn , Zidenberg-Cherr Sheri
Published: June 2021

Calcium is a nutrient of concern, most notably in children ages 9–18. There are limited calcium‐rich foods curricula for this population. The purpose of this pilot study was to test a calcium‐rich foods curriculum developed by the University of California Davis Center for Nutrition in Schools. Students (n=33) in two 5th grade classrooms participated in four 30‐minute lessons over four weeks. Family newsletters were used to reinforce concepts from the lessons. Pre‐ and post‐ measures of student knowledge, parent knowledge and attitudes, and milk consumption during school lunch were collected. Student knowledge questionnaires were tested for construct validity (p<0.01) and reliability (Pearson R= 0.79) in a population with similar demographics. School demographics: 5.2% qualify for free/reduced lunch; 1.4% African American, 0.6% American Indian/Alaska Native, 5.4% Asian, 2.1% Filipino, 8.3% Hispanic/Latino, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 80.1%White not Hispanic, 2.0% Two or more races. Student knowledge increased significantly (p<0.01) from baseline (5.52 +/− 1.79) to follow‐up (8.24 +/− 1.97) out of a possible total score of 10. Parent knowledge and attitudes did not change significantly. Milk consumption was too low to be included in the analysis. These lessons will be incorporated into future controlled nutrition education interventions. Supported by UC Davis Center for Nutrition in Schools.
Adiposity is Associated with Menstrual Cycle Irregularity in Young Women
Authors: Natarajan Radhika , Bertone-Johnson Elizabeth , Zagarins Sofija , Gehlbach Stephen H , Ronnenberg Alayne G
Published: June 2021

Abnormal menstrual cycles are associated with reduced fecundity and increased risk of miscarriage, possibly due to altered endocrine function. Obesity influences sex steroid levels and has been adversely associated with menstrual cycle length and pattern. However, existing studies lack accurate measures of adiposity and include older women, whose cycles may be affected by other factors. This study examined the association between adiposity and menstrual cycle regularity in young women.

METHODS

The UMass Vitamin D Status Study is a cross‐sectional study of 18‐ to 30‐year‐old women. This analysis includes 164 women who did not use oral contraceptives. Women were weighed and measured during the late luteal phase of their menstrual cycle, and percent body fat was assessed using dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA).

RESULTS

Mean (SD) age, body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat were 21.5 y (3.1), 23.1 kg/m2 (3.3), and 32% (7.8), respectively; 52% of women attained menarche at or before age 12. After adjusting for age and physical activity, women with 32% body fat or less were nearly four‐times more likely to have irregular cycles than women with higher body fat (OR: 3.7; 95% CI:1.1–11.9). BMI was not associated with menstrual cycle characteristics. DXA estimates of percent body fat—but not BMI—suggest that low adiposity is associated with menstrual cycle irregularity. This research is supported by University of MA.
Changes in dietary protein intake differentially affect glucose tolerance and lipid profile in adults with impaired versus normal glucose tolerance
Authors: Janle Elsa M , Conley Travis B , DePalma Glen R , Weinheimer Eileen M , Sands Laura P , Campbell Wayne W
Published: June 2021

The effects of changes in total protein intake (PRO) on oral glucose tolerance (GT) and lipid‐lipoprotein profile (LLP) were studied in 136 overweight/obese 35–65y, free feeding adults who consumed supplements with 400 kcal/d and 0, 20, 40 or 60 g/d whey protein and exercised 3d/week for 9 months. Retrospectively, subjects were divided into impaired GT (baseline 2‐h glucose > 140 mg/dL) and normal GT groups. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA: 405/(glucosef (mg/dL) • insulinf (U/L)). A multiple regression model assessed the moderating effects of impaired GT on the impact of change in PRO on the GT, HOMA and LLP parameters (adjusted for weight change and gender). A change in PRO was positively associated with changes in HOMA, fasting triacylglycerol (p<0.05) and fasting insulin (p=0.060) in the GT impaired group only (group by PRO, p < 0.05, < 0.05 and 0.061). Change in PRO was not associated with changes in glucose and insulin responses to a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance challenge, or changes in total cholesterol and HDL. In summary, while most research has focused on the effects of total protein intake on health‐related outcomes, these results indicate that the change in protein intake is also important to consider when helping overweight/obese adults with impaired glucose tolerance improve their health.

Support: US Whey Protein Res Consort; NIH T32AG025671 and UL1 RR025761
Relationships between features of metabolic syndrome and fatty acid composition of the diet, plasma, and adipose tissue in older adults
Authors: Rose Angela Marie , Asp Michelle , Collene Angela , Belury Martha A
Published: June 2021

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of conditions including central adiposity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. We conducted a study of 142 healthy older adults aged 60–88, examining fat quality as measured by diet history questionnaire, and plasma and adipose fatty acid composition as predictors for components of MetS.

Plasma 16:0, 16:3n4, 18:1n9, and 20:1n9 and dietary saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, and cholesterol predict for having MetS. Dietary monounsaturated fat increases, while adipose 16:1n7 and 18:4n3 decrease, in subjects with increasing numbers of MetS features.

Adipose 16:0 is correlated with each feature of MetS. Plasma saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were positively correlated, while plasma polyunsaturated fatty acid composition was negatively correlated, with triglyceride levels.

This study demonstrates several important relationships between the features of metabolic syndrome and fatty acid quality in the diet, plasma, and adipose tissue. Further research should be conducted to determine if these relationships are the result of differences in dietary intake or fatty acid metabolism.
Is the serum level of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) inversely associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome in Korean children and adolescents?
Authors: Kim Myung-Hee , Kim Eun-Kyung
Published: June 2021

To evaluate the association of vitamin D status with metabolic risk factors, fasting blood glucose, insulin, lipid profiles and 25[OH]D were assessed by using venous blood, and body composition was determined by the bioelectrical impedance in 74 subjects aged 7–17 years (42 boys, 32 girls; BMI range 14.8–31.8 kg/m2). Vitamin D status were categorized according to serum 25[OH]D concentration as insufficiency (< 50 nmol/L) and sufficiency (¡Ã 50 nmol/L). Vitamin D insufficiency was present 85.1% of the subjects. BMI, body fat, serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, and atherogenic index were significantly higher in vitamin D‐insufficient group (22.7 kg/m2, 29.0%, 70.8 mg/dl, 167.6 mg/dl, 98.9 mg/dl, and 2.23) than in vitamin D‐sufficient group (19.5 kg/m2, 21.2%, 43.4 mg/dl, 144.3 mg/dl, 76.1 mg/dl, and 1.53). And serum 25[OH]D was negatively correlated with age(r=−0.369, p<0.01), weight(r=−0.235, p<0.05), tricep skinfold thickness(r=−0.386, p<0.001), and serum TG (r=−0.274, r<0.05). These results show that a low level of serum 25[OH]D is related with the risk of obesity and hyperlipidemia, not with blood pressure and glucose intolerance, in Korean young people.

This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology(2010‐0004472).
Metabolic comparison of weight matched obese male and female mice
Authors: Stromsdorfer Kelly Lee , Nickelson Karen , Pickering R. Taylor , Ortinau Laura , Perfield James W.
Published: June 2021

Estrogen is a known regulator of body composition and insulin sensitivity. However, a reduction in body weight (BW) is commonly associated with the reported benefits of estrogen. The purpose of this study was to compare the metabolic health of obese male and female mice matched for BW. Male and female mice were fed a high fat diet until they achieved a BW where insulin resistance is typically observed (45 g). BW gain was much more rapid in male mice as it took 3.5 months to achieve this target BW (44 g) while it took 6 months for females to achieve a similar BW (46 g). Plasma estrogen concentrations were not different between obese (92.7 pg/mL) and age matched lean (92.5 pg/mL) female mice. Despite a similar final BW, obese females had significantly larger gonadal (3.7 vs 2.2 g) and subcutaneous (3.3 vs 2.3 g) fat pads as compared to obese males. Glucose area under the curve following a glucose tolerance test was significantly improved in obese female mice as compared to obese male mice. Improved glucose tolerance was associated with reduced gonadal fat gene expression of CD11c, MCP‐1 and IL‐6 with a trend for decreased IL‐1β. Overall, our data demonstrate that circulating concentrations of estrogen were not altered in obese female mice and when matched for BW, female mice displayed increased adipose tissue mass, reduced adipose tissue inflammation and improved glucose tolerance as compared to obese male mice.
Anti‐obesity Effect of microalgal oil Supplementation in C57BL/6N Mice Fed a High Fat Diet
Authors: Lee Seon Hwa , Choi Joohee , Mun Eun-Gyung , Cha Youn-Soo
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the antiobesity effects of microalgal oil in C57BL/6J mice with diet‐induced obesity (DIO). Sixty male C57BL/6N mice aged 4 weeks were divided into 6 groups; ND (normal diet control), HD (high fat diet control 60% fat kcal), BT (high fat diet & beef tallow, 5g/kg), CO (high fat diet & corn oil, 5g/kg), FO (high fat diet & fish oil, 5g/kg), and MO (high fat diet & microalgal oil, 5g/kg). Mice in the DIO group were fed a high fat diet to induce obesity. The experiment was carried out for 12 weeks including diet program. The FO and MO groups have significantly decreased body weight gain, epididymal fat pad weights and serum TG, TC levels compared to the HD group and BT group. These results were supported by real time PCR analysis for mRNA expression of genes (ACO, CPT‐I, PPAR‐γ, SREBP‐1, FAS, SCD‐1) related to lipid metabolism. These results indicate that microalgal polyunsaturated oil might have an antiobesity effect on high fat diet‐ induced obese mice. All in all, n‐3 PUFA‐rich oil from microalgae is as good as fish oil regarding chemoprevention in diet induced obesity mice (This work was supported from Korea research institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, open innovation project).
Measurement of Body Fat Does Not Predict Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Kalil Graziela , Sinkey Christine , Haynes William
Published: June 2021

Background

We hypothesized that measurement of body fat would predict cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

In a prospectively recruited cohort of 30 middle‐aged obese subjects with metabolic syndrome (55±9 yr; 28% male; BMI 38±4; mean±SD) we assessed the association of risk factors with BMI, waist circumference and body fat content (by air displacement plethysmography, skin fold thickness, and Body Adiposity Index (hip/(height1.5))‐18)) using regression analysis.

Results

Waist (118±11 cm) and body fat (plethysmography: 48±7%; skin fold: 41±4%; BAI: 41±8%) were elevated. Waist circumference was a significant and strong predictor of fasting glucose (100±10 mg/dl; R=0.499; P=0.008) and HDL‐cholesterol (57±14 mg/dl; R=0.537; P=0.003). BMI significantly predicted hsCRP (5.4±6.4 mg/dl; R=0.387; P=0.04), and weakly predicted systolic BP (129±15 mmHg; R=0.339; P=0.08). Importantly, body fat content (whether by air displacement plethysmography, skin fold thickness or BAI) did NOT associate with cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion

In obese subjects with metabolic syndrome, measurement of body fat content does NOT associate with BP, lipids, glucose or inflammation. Waist circumference and BMI are better predictors of cardiovascular risk factors.

Grant Funding Source : NHLBI
Gross anatomy instruction in chiropractic colleges: A local and global perspective
Authors: Ball Jennette , Zumpano Michael Paul , Petrocco-Napuli Kristina
Published: June 2021

Introduction

This project details gross anatomy instruction at New York Chiropractic College (NYCC) and Chiropractic Colleges internationally.

Methods

A 72 question web survey was sent to the anatomy department chairperson at thirty‐six schools internationally using Zoomerang. NYCC data was drawn from course syllabi.

Results

Sixteen schools responded: (1) Ph.D. degrees in Anatomy and Anthropology outnumbered M.D. and D.C. degrees (2) 75% utilize human cadavers, 69% require student dissection and 91% use prosection; (3) 88% required attendance in lab and 50% in lecture; (4) 44% utilized cumulative lecture and lab examinations; (5) 94% provided tutoring. NYCC teaches gross anatomy in a 1 year sequence divided into three 14 week courses totaling 126 lecture hours and 168 hours laboratory dissection hours. Full cadaveric dissection is used in lab. Prosection demonstrations are performed prior to most student dissections. Embryology is integrated into the gross anatomy sequence.

Conclusion

Chiropractic institutions internationally have similar gross anatomy faculty, curricular design, delivery and assessment methods. NYCC has not been mandated to cut gross anatomy instruction hours. We maintain a gross anatomy sequence centered on cadaveric dissection and offer a Masterˈs of Science Degree in Clinical Anatomy, centered on human cadaveric dissection.
High‐fat from butter and sesame oils based diet have almost same effects on post energy expenditure (PEE) and satiety in healthy adults
Authors: Lee Myung-Joo , Tsani A. Fahmy Arif , Kim Eun-Kyung
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to compare the thermic effect of butter(SFA‐rich) and sesame oil(PUFA‐rich) based diet on PEE. Subjects were eight healthy university students aged 19–22 years. The meals were two isocaloric diet which consist of 50, 40, and 10% of fat, carbohydrate, and protein content, respectively. Energy expenditure was measured by indirect calorimetry and satiety (hunger, appetite, and prospective food consumption and fullness) was assessed by Visual Analogue Scales at preprandial and every 30 min over 5 hours after meal consumption. PEE of sesame oil diet increased more rapidly (peak at 90‐min) than butter diet (peak at 150‐min). However, PEE of butter diet decreased relatively faster after peak time. Total thermogenesis of butter(30.8 kcal/5h) was lower than that of sesame oil(34.4 kcal/5h ), but not significantly different. 6.5% of butter and 7.3% of sesame oil diet were contributed as thermic effect for those dietˈs digestion and absorption. There were no significant differences in thermic effects and satiety values between SFA rich diet and PUFA rich diet. Thus, number of double bond in fatty acid does not influence on energy expenditure.

This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program, National Research Foundation of Korea funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
Effect of sugar, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium alone or in beverages on C. elegans model organism
Authors: Zheng Jolene , King Jason , King Michael , Heymsfield Steven , Finley John , Greenway Frank
Published: June 2021

Sugar‐sweetened beverages have been associated with weight gain. Increasingly use non‐caloric sweeteners have also been suggested to cause obesity. We tested whether sugar‐sweetened or non‐caloric sweeteners sweetened beverages increased intestinal fat deposition in wild type Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Control animals received standard lab food (E. coli, OP50). In study I, animals received OP50 plus sugar‐ or sweetener‐sweetened beverages. In study II, animals were treated with OP50 plus sugar, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium, the sweeteners used in beverages. After 18 days, animals were fixed and stained with lipophilic dye Nile red. Micrographs were captured using a florescence microscope, digital camera, and the fluorescent intensity of intestinal fat deposition was analyzed. Treatment with a sugar‐sweetened beverage did not change Nile red florescence intensity, but reduced pharyngeal pumping rate which was also reduced by a sweetener‐sweetened beverage, a surrogate marker of aging. Animals receiving sugar had 50% more intestinal fat deposition. Aspartame or acesulfame potassium did not increase intestinal fat deposition and gave an elevated pharyngeal pumping rate. These data suggested that sweeteners, aspartame or acesulfame potassium, alone or in beverages do not increase intestinal fat deposition in wild type C. elegans.

Supported by LSU AgCenter
Impact of Protein Intake on Exercise‐Induced Changes in Body Composition in Middle‐Aged, Overweight Adults
Authors: Conley Travis Blair , Weinheimer Eileen M. , DePalma Glen R. , Janle Elsa M. , Sands Laura P. , Campbell Wayne W.
Published: June 2021

Objective and Methods

The impact of total protein intake (PI) on body composition was studied in 111 overweight, middle‐aged adults (age 48.8±0.6 y, BMI 30.1±0.5 kg/m2) who exercised 3d/week and consumed an unrestricted diet along with 200 kcal supplements (0, 10, 20 or 30 g whey protein) 2× daily for 36 wk. Protein intake was assessed via 4‐d food records. A multiple regression model retrospectively assessed the moderating effects of PI (Post study PI=1.2±0.37 g pro•kg−1•d−1) on exercise‐induced changes in body composition.

Results

Total protein intake was inversely associated with the change over time in total mass, fat mass, body fat % (p<0.05), and lean mass (p<0.08, trend) and positively associated with the change in lean mass percent (p<0.02). The changes in body composition were different (p<0.01) between groups of subjects that consumed < vs. > 1.0 g pro•kg−1•d−1:total mass (1.68±0.52 vs. −0.18±0.4 SE), fat mass (−1.22±0.34 vs. 0.48±0.43 kg) body fat % (−1.4±0.24 vs. −0.23±0.29 %), lean mass percent (1.39±0.23 vs. 0.27±0.28 %).

Conclusion

Consumption of higher protein promotes positive changes in body composition in conjunction with exercise training. Protein intakes > 1.0 g pro•kg−1•d−1are preferred to help middle‐aged, overweight adults to help reduce body fat and to increase lean mass percent.

Grant Funding Source: Support: NIH T32 AG025671 and UL1 RR025761, US Whey Consort, Purdue Ingest Behav Res Ctr
The effects of low, moderate, or high protein yogurt snacks on appetite control and subsequent eating in healthy women
Authors: Douglas Steve M , Ortinau Laura C , Hoertel Heather A , Leidy Heather J
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To assess whether low (LP), moderate (MP), or high (HP) protein snacks influence appetite control & delay subsequent eating.

Method

22 healthy women (age: 29 ± 10 y; BMI: 23.0 ± 2.3 kg/m2) randomly consumed the following 160 kcal afternoon snacks, at home, for 3 days: LP yogurt (5 g protein), MP yogurt (14 g protein), HP Greek yogurt (24 g protein) or had no snack (NS). On day 4 of each pattern, the following 8 h testing day was completed. Standardized breakfast & lunch meals were provided; the respective snack was consumed 3 h after lunch; and, appetite/satiety questionnaires were completed every 30 min until dinner was voluntarily requested.

Results

Snacking led to reductions in hunger and increases in fullness throughout the post‐snack period vs. NS (p<0.05, each snack). Although no hunger differences were observed between snacks, fullness was higher throughout the post‐snack period following HP vs. LP and MP (both, p<0.05). NS led to the earliest dinner request time vs. all snacks (NS: 2:17 ± 0:10 h; LP: 2:36 ± 0:9 h; MP: 2:39 ± 0:8 h; HP: 2:55 ± 0:9 h post‐snack (NS vs. each snack, p<0.05)). When comparing between snacks, HP led to the latest request time vs. LP (p<0.001) and MP (p<0.05).

Conclusions

A higher protein Greek yogurt snack containing 24 g of protein led to greater afternoon increases in satiety and a longer delay in eating vs. other lower protein yogurt snacks in healthy women.
Dietary leucine and alanine supplementation have similar effects in the prevention of high fat diet induced obesity
Authors: Petzke Klaus J. , Freudenberg Anne , Klaus Susanne
Published: June 2021

High protein diets can alleviate detrimental effects of high fat diets as discussed to be partially due to Leu. C57BL/6 male mice were fed ad libitum for 1 wk with high‐fat diets (20% of fat) containing an adequate (10%, APD) or high (50%, HPD) amount of whey protein, or supplemented with Leu corresponding to the Leu content within the HP diet (LD) or supplemented equimolar with Ala (AD) in order to clarify the specificity of Leu effects. Food and water intake were monitored (computer controlled system). Body composition was assessed (QMR). HP completely prevented the AP induced accumulation of body fat. LD and AD resulted in similar reductions of body fat accumulation which was intermediate between AP and HP. Triacylglycerol concentrations and gene expression of lipogenic enzymes in liver as well as plasma cholesterol were lower by HP compared to AP, both LD and AD showed intermediate effects. Body fat gains correlated with total energy intake (P<0.0001). Water intake rapidly increased by HP feeding and correlated with total nitrogen intake (P<0.0001). Feed energy efficiency correlated with energy intake (P<0.0001). We concluded that the positive effects of high protein diets on metabolic syndrome associated traits are mainly due to effects on satiety linked to amino‐N intake. There is no specific metabolic effect of Leu at least in the short term. Grants PE643/7‐1, PE643/10‐1, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Germany.
Strawberry extract attenuates glucose and free fatty acid‐mediated impaired insulin signaling in vitro in skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Kangath Archana , Chang Claire , Krishnankutty Sandhya , Tadapaneni Ravi Kiran , Edirisinghe Indika , Freeman Britt Burton
Published: June 2021

Elevated glucose and free fatty acids (FFA) are evident in individuals with insulin resistance (IR) and are associated with oxidative stress. Anthocyanins are suggested to have favorable effects on human health due to their ability to modulate oxidative stress and cell signaling pathways in peripheral tissues. We hypothesized that strawberry anthocyanins (ST) will improve oxidative stress‐mediated impaired insulin signaling in vitro in human skeletal muscle cells (HSMCs). Oxidative stress was generated using physiologically high glucose, FFA or a combination of both for 2–6 h with and without ST (0.1–1.0 mg/mL) in vitro in HSMCs. Cell viability was not affected by any of the above treatments/time. At the end of treatments, cells were treated with insulin (100 nM) for 20 min. Phosphorylation of Akt (p‐Akt/Akt) was studied using AlphaScreen® Surefire® assay as a measure of insulin signaling. Our results indicate that FFA (2 mM) or combination of Glucose (15 mM) + FFA (2 mM) significantly decreased p‐Akt/Akt compared to control cells treated with phosphate buffered saline (P<0.05). ST extract restored FFA and Glucose + FFA‐induced reductions in p‐Akt/Akt levels (P<0.05). These in vitro data suggest a role of strawberry in improving insulin sensitivity having potentially important implications for people with IR.

Grant Funding Source : California Strawberry Commission, California Department of Food & Agriculture
Evaluation for antioxidant and anticancer activity of Artemisia Princeps var. Orientalis in vitro
Authors: Kim Gun-Hee , Choi Eun Jeong , Lee Jae In
Published: June 2021

The present work investigated antioxidant and anticancer activity of Artemisia princeps var. orientalis methanol extract (APME) in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. When each cell line was treated with APME ranging from 5 to 200 ug/ml for 24, 48, and 72 hr, APME was more responsive in the growth of HepG2 cells. Significant antiproliferative effects of APME were first observed from at 5 ug/ml (p<0.05) for all exposing times, APME at high concentrations (over 100 ug/ml) for 72 hour remarkably inhibited by 31.6~36.5%. Next, to elucidate the antioxidant activity of APME, effective conditions in HepG2 cells were chosen (5, 100, 200 ug/ml for 72 hr) without causing cytotoxicity. The ROS generation in the presence of H2O2 was significantly increased (p <0.05), as compared to the control (34.52% and 49.21%), for DHR123 and H2DCFDA, respectively. High concentrations (100 and 200 ug/ml) of APME significantly scavenged ROS in the presence of H2O2. Besides, catalase and total SOD activities was increased up to 23.7 and 21.7% at 200 ug/ml APME respectively, as compared to controls and this activation observed as dose‐dependent manner. In parallel with this result, catalase, CuZn‐, and Mn‐SOD mRNA expression was showed a similar pattern with their activity. The anticancer study indicated that apoptotic morphological features were observed in HepG2 and Hep3B cells exposed to 100 and 200 ug/ml APME. Moreover, p53 expression remarkably increased (APME 200 ug/ml). Taken together, APME were shown to have antioxidant and anticancer activity. Although our results suggest that APME is beneficial to human health, further studies are needed to elucidate the exact mechanism of action.
Antiproliferative Effects of Vitamin D, DHA and 5‐ Fluorourocil on Breast Cancer
Authors: Hawk Susan Nicole , Engelsen Liv
Published: June 2021

It is well documented that both vitamin D and DHA have antiproliferative effects on a variety of human cancer cells, including breast cancer. Research also shows that a combination approach to cancer treatment is often more effective than any one treatment alone. The purpose of our research was to determine whether the combination of vitamin D (calcitriol) and DHA would slow the progression of human MCF‐7 breast cancer cells more than when they were added alone. We also sought to determine whether these compounds would increase the sensitivity of cells to the antimetabolite chemotherapy drug, 5‐Fluorourocil which is commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer. If either calcitriol or DHA are able to enhance the effects of a chemoptherapeutic agent, it could translate into a lower drug requirement for the patient. This would be beneficial due to the undesirable side effects patients typically experience when taking cytotoxic drugs. In this study, human mammary epithelial cells, MCF‐7s, were treated with 25μM DHA, 100 nM calcitriol, and 15μM 5‐Fluorourocil alone and in multiple combinations for 48 hrs. Cells were then assessed for viability using a fluorescence assay. At 100 nM, calcitriol was ineffective in slowing cell growth. In contrast, both 5‐Fluorourocil and DHA slowed growth significantly. Combining calcitriol and DHA treatments did not improve cell outcome more than treating cells separately. Interestingly, DHA was just as effective as 5‐Fluorourocil in limiting cell growth. Combining cell treatments did not appear to be any more effective than treating cells with only one compound. These results suggest that DHA alone may be just as efficacious as 5‐Fluorourocil in slowing breast cancer progression and may thus offer a dietary approach to breast cancer treatment. This research is supported by the Office of Graduate Research, Central Washington University.
Involvement of AMPK in the regulation of CSK, COX‐2 and mTOR in cancer cell growth control under EGCG treatment
Authors: Park Song Yi , Lee Yun-Kyoung , Lee Won Sup , Kim Young-Min , Park Ock Jin
Published: June 2021

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was recently shown to activate the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) in cancer cells and in vivo systems. In the lieu of elucidating the mechanism for this effect and the consequence of the activation of AMPK on the important signals of cancer cell control‐CSK, COX‐2 and mTOR, we have applied Hep3B and HT‐29 cancerous cells. We have shown that EGCG activated AMPK possibly through stimulation of AMPK. The activation of AMPK with EGCG suppressed the expression of CSK as well as COX‐2 and mTOR. EGCG induced the translocation of AMPK into nucleus. Upon the inactivation of AMPK either by AMPK siRNA or Compound C, EGCG no longer modulated CSK or COX‐2 or mTOR implying that AMPK is an upstream signal for these molecules. With fluorescent markers of AMPK, CSK and COX‐2 with or without the activation of AMPK, it was shown that EGCG stimulated the translocation of AMPK and CSK into the nucleus. However, without the activation of AMPK via Compound C, the stimulatory effect of EGCG on the translocation into the nucleus was diminished. Therefore, the activation of AMPK and the translocation of AMPK into the nucleus seem to be necessary for EGCG to control cancer cell growth and further the regulation of CSK, COX‐2 and mTOR. [This work was supported by the Korea Science and Engineering Foundation (KOSEF) grant funded by the Korea government (MEST) (NO. R01‐2008‐000‐20131‐0)]

Grant Funding Source: Korea Science and Engineering Foundation
Raw and cooked African green leafy vegetables have greater antioxidant and cellular protective properties than spinach
Authors: Oelofse Andre , Mavhungu Nangula Paulina , Serem June , Bester Megan , Duodu Kwaku Gyebi
Published: June 2021

Leaves of amaranth, jute mallow, pumpkin and cowpea are widely consumed in sub‐Saharan Africa as green leafy vegetables (GLVs). These vegetables are generally underutilized because of the assumption that their nutritional value is less than that of exotic GLVs such as spinach. In this study we determined the total phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of these African GLVs, and their ability to protect against oxidative damage in erythrocytes, plasmid DNA and cell cultures, in comparison to spinach. The effect of boiling on these parameters was also determined. Total polyphenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity were determined. The ability of GLV extracts to protect against AAPH‐induced oxidative damage in erythrocytes, plasmid DNA and cell cultures was also determined. African GLVs had phenolic content, antioxidant activity and cellular protective properties greater than spinach. Boiling reduced the antioxidant content and activity, and increased the cellular protective properties of GLVs. Significant levels of cytotoxicity were observed in all extracts of raw GLVs, with highest levels in spinach than in African GLVs. The protection of erythrocytes and plasmid DNA against oxidative damage was dependent on individual GLV extracts. The current results can be used to promote the consumption and commercialization of African GLVs. Supported by the Water Research Commission of South Africa; The Faculty for the Future Program of the Schlumberger Foundation and the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World.