bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory exploration of seasonally and locally available vegetables and their effects on vegetable consumption of Western Massachusetts Head Start preschool children
Authors: Sojkowski Shannon , Severin Suzanne , Kannan Srimathi
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of sensory exploration of vegetables on children's willingness to try, preferences for, and consumption of the target vegetables within a classroom setting. Preschool children (n=88) from six Head Start classrooms in Western Massachusetts participated in the 6‐week study (baseline, 4‐week intervention, follow‐up). In Fall, 2011,using a nutrition curriculum centered on the 5 senses, trained student facilitators introduced the children to eight vegetables (2 pairs/week: pea pods‐green beans, broccoli ‐cauliflower, etc). Classrooms were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 sensory conditions; facilitator‐guided exploration (45 children; 3 classrooms) of vegetable A (e.g broccoli) and self‐guided‐exploration of vegetable B (e.g cauliflower); or facilitator‐guided exploration (43 children; 3 classrooms) of vegetable B and self‐guided exploration of vegetable A. Pre‐post vegetable cup measurements and Willingness to Taste Rating Scale provided consumption data and an observational measure of tasting respectively. At baseline, the “most tried” vegetables, defined by at least 2 children per classroom having consumed more than half of the 7 gram serving of the respective vegetable were: beets, carrots and pea pods. Sensory‐based creative strategies must be emphasized to facilitate vegetable‐preferences, willingness and consumption in this setting.

Project funded by USDA HATCH Grant.
Quantitative evaluation of a nutrition education curriculum targeting limited resource participants
Authors: Auld Garry , Baker Susan , McGirr Kathryn , Conway Lisa
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Eating Smart • Being Active (ESBA) curriculum in a quantitative, multi‐state, pre‐to post‐intervention analysis, using nonequivalent comparison groups. The effectiveness of ESBA was evaluated both independently and against previously used Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) curricula. EFNEP participant data were collected from five, regionally distinct states, over 3 separate 6‐month periods, each measuring separate groups of participants. The primary measurement tool for mean participant behavior change was the Behavior Checklist Questionnaire from the national Nutrition Education Evaluation and Reporting System. Overall, the ESBA curriculum was effective at increasing positive behaviors related to food, nutrition, and overall health in participants. When comparing ESBA to other EFNEP curricula, ESBA had better, statistically significant outcomes, for food resource management, food safety, nutrition, physical activity, and servings of fruit and vegetables. The data were fairly consistent across all states for these categories suggesting that ESBA can be an effective curriculum in nutrition education programs targeting limited resource audiences. This study was funded by EFNEP, from the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Anti‐cancer effects of daurinol, a plant arynaphthalane lignan, with low hematological toxicity compared to etoposide
Authors: Kang Kyungsu , Oh Seung Hyun , Yun Ji Ho , Jho Eun Hye , Kang Ju Hee , Batsuren Dulamjav , Tunsag Jigjidsuren , Park Kwang Hwa , Nho Chu Won
Published: June 2021

We investigated the cancer suppression effects of daurinol, a plant lignan from Haplophyllum dauricum, and their molecular mechanism in human colon cancer cells. Myelosuppression is one of the most common and serious side effects of cancer chemotherapy usually caused by chemotherapeutic agents such as etoposide. Etoposide, a topoisomerase II poison, is known to induce G2/M arrest, severe DNA damage, and the formation of giant nuclei in HCT116 cells. We hypothesized that the induction of DNA damage and nuclear enlargement due to abnormal chromosomal conditions could lead to genomic instability resulting in the side effects of etoposide. We found that daurinol inhibits DNA synthesis in HCT116 cells through a catalytic inhibition of human topoisomerase IIα. Daurinol induces S‐phase arrest but did not cause DNA damage or nuclear enlargement in vitro. Finally, we confirmed the in vivo antitumor effects and side effects of daurinol and etoposide in nude mice xenograft models. Daurinol displayed potent antitumor effects without any significant loss of body weight or hematological toxicity, whereas etoposide treatment led to decreased body weight, white blood cell and red blood cell counts. Therefore, daurinol could be a promising potential anticancer agent with low hematological toxicity.

Grant Funding Source : This work was supported by an intramural grant from KIST and a grant from the Center Project for Korea‐Mongolia Science and Technology Cooperation, MEST (2U04260), Korea.
Lipoprotein cholesterol distribution and LDL particle size is proatherogenic in Mexican Americans with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Pignotti Giselle Adriana Pereira , Neupane Srijana , Farr Kristin J , Vega-López Sonia
Published: June 2021

To evaluate the association between components of metabolic syndrome (MS) and lipoprotein cholesterol (C) distribution in Mexican‐American adults, the distribution of C in LDL and HDL subfractions and the presence of MS were assessed in 72 healthy participants (25 male, 47 female; age=37±9 y; BMI=28.9±5.3 kg/m2; fasting glucose[FG]=94±14 mg/dL; total‐C=181±36 mg/dL; LDL‐C=115±31 mg/dL; HDL‐C=43±11 mg/dL; triglycerides [TG]=114±61 mg/dL). Participants with MS had smaller LDL particles (267±3Å vs. 271±3Å; p<0.0001) and 2.8 times more C in smaller LDL particles (p=0.001) than those without MS. The number of MS components was inversely correlated with LDL particle size (r=−0.322, p=0.006) and the percentage of HDL‐C in large HDL particles (r=−0.518, p<0.001), and positively correlated with the percentage of total‐C in small LDL particles (r=−0.298, p=0.011). Participants with TG>150mg/dL had smaller LDL particles (266±3Å vs. 271±2Å; p<0.001), less HDL‐C in large HDL particles (15±4% vs. 24±7%; p<0.001), and more HDL‐C in small HDL particles (29±6% vs. 20±7%; p<0.001) than those with normal TG. Participants with elevated waist circumference had 20% less HDL‐C in large HDL particles (20±5% vs. 24±8%; p=0.012). These data suggest that of the components of the MS, elevated TG may be a greater contributor to having a more atherogenic lipoprotein profile among Mexican Americans. Funded by Arizona State University.
Regulation of inflammatory and lipid metabolism genes by eicosapentaenoic acid‐rich oil
Authors: Heuvel John P Vanden , Bhatia Sujata K , Belcher Leigh A , Thompson Jerry T , Gillies Peter J
Published: June 2021

Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3‐PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are associated with prevention of various aspects of metabolic syndrome. In the present studies, the effects of oil rich in EPA on gene expression and activation of nuclear receptors was examined and compared to other ω3‐PUFAs. The EPA‐rich oil (EO) altered the expression of fatty acid metabolism genes in THP‐1 cells including stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD) and fatty acid desaturase 1 and 2 (FASDS1 and 2). Other ω3‐PUFAs resulted in a similar gene expression response for a subset of genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation. In reporter assays, EO activated human PPARα and PPARβ/γ with minimal effects on PPARγ, LXR, RXR, FXR and RARγ; these effects were similar to that observed for purified EPA. When serum from a six week clinical intervention with dietary supplements containing olive oil (control), DHA or two levels of EO were applied to THP‐1 cells, the expression of SCD and FADS2 decreased in the cells treated with serum from the ω3‐PUFA supplemented individuals. Taken together these studies indicate regulation of gene expression by the EPA‐rich oil that is consistent with treating aspects of dyslipidemia and inflammation. (Supported by DuPont Central Research and Development).
Farnesoid X Receptor Activation by Chenodeoxycholic Acid Induces Detoxifying Enzymes through AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase and Extracellular Signal‐Regulated Kinase 1/2‐Mediated Phosphorylation of CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein β
Authors: Noh Kyoung , Kim Young Mi , Kim Young Woo , Kim Sang Geon
Published: June 2021

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates redox homeostasis and elicits a cytoprotective effect. CCAAT/enhancer binding protein‐β (C/EBPβ) plays a role in regulating the expression of hepatocytespecific genes and contributes to hepatocyte protection and liver regeneration. In view of the role of FXR in xenobiotic metabolism and hepatocyte survival, this study investigated the potential of FXR to activate C/EBPβ for the induction of detoxifying enzymes and the responsible regulatory pathway. Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), a major component in bile acids, activates FXR. In HepG2 cells, CDCA treatment activated C/EBPβ, as shown by increases in its phosphorylation, nuclear accumulation, and expression. 3‐(2,6‐ Dichlorophenyl)‐4‐(3′‐carboxy‐2‐chlorostilben‐4‐yl‐)oxymethyl‐5‐ isopropyl‐isoxazole (GW4064), a synthetic FXR ligand, had similar effects. In addition, CDCA enhanced luciferase gene transcription from the construct containing −1.65‐kb GSTA2 promoter, which contained C/EBP response element (pGL‐1651). Moreover, CDCA treatment activated AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which led to extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation, as evidenced by the results of experiments using a dominant‐negative mutant of AMPKα and chemical inhibitor. The activation of ERK1/2 was responsible for the activating phosphorylation of C/EBPβ. FXR knockdown attenuated the ability of CDCA to activate AMPK and ERK1/2 and phosphorylate C/EBPβ. Consistently, enforced expression of FXR promoted the phosphorylation of AMPKα, ERK1/2, and C/EBPβ, verifying that C/EBPβ phosphorylation elicited by CDCA results from the activation of AMPK and ERK1/2 by FXR. In mice, CDCA treatment activated C/EBPβ with the induction of detoxifying enzymes in the liver. Our results demonstrate that CDCA induces antioxidant and xenobiotic‐metabolizing enzymes by activating C/EBPβ through AMPK‐dependent ERK1/2 pathway downstream of FXR.
Bioavailability and bioaccessibility of carotenoids from papaya, tomato, and carrot are modulated by chromoplast morphology
Authors: Schweiggert Ralf Martin , Mezger Dominik , Schimpf Franziska , Steingass Christof Björn , Heller Annerose , Riedl Ken , Kopec Rachel , Quesada Silvia , Esquivel Patricia , Carle Reinhold , Schwartz Steven Jay
Published: June 2021

This study reports the carotenoid deposition forms in chromoplasts of papaya, tomato, and carrot, as well as their influence on carotenoid bioaccessibility (in vitro study) and bioavailability (human in vivo study) of these pigments. Using light and electron microscopy, the pigment‐bearing chromoplasts of red‐fleshed papaya, tomato, and carrots were characterized revealing significant differences. Since the characteristics of their plastidal deposition may be decisive regarding their liberation during food digestion, bioaccessibility of carotenoids from papaya, tomato and carrot was assessed using an in vitro digestion model. An enhanced relative bioaccessibility of β‐carotene from fresh papaya (5.3%) was found when compared to tomato (3.1%) and carrot (0.5%). Despite differences in morphology and size of the chromoplasts, bioaccessibility of lycopene from both fresh papaya and tomato was comparable and low (~0.3%). Nevertheless, thermal processing led to significant differences between both fruit sources. Consequently, a human cross‐over study was designed investigating the post prandial bioavailability of carotenoids (β‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin, and lycopene) from papaya, tomato and carrot in healthy individuals. Results of the post‐prandial analysis will be discussed with particular focus on the differences of carotenoid deposition in the respective plant tissues.
School lunches and children′s fruit and vegetable consumption
Authors: Teixeira Amy M , Jones Sonya J , Childers Casey D , Ball Jackie M
Published: June 2021

The average US child consumes no vegetables and less than half a cup of fruit per day. Children that participate in school meals eat slightly more vegetables and fruit (FV) than children who do not. Given the number and types of FV available in school meals programs based on School Meals Initiative Guidance, children have the opportunity to eat many more FV at school each day. The purpose of this study was to examine what factors in a school cafeteria might explain low FV consumption. We conducted a photographic plate waste study at a SC elementary school and used ethnographic notes to document the cafeteria environment. Photos were taken of 183 trays at the time of payment and at the disposal of the uneaten portion. Photos were compared and food consumption data of FV, entrées, and a la carte items (ALC) were recorded as none, bite, ¼, ½, 3/4, or whole. Bi‐variate analysis was conducted using STATA 12. The data revealed the influence of offer versus serve and a la carte snacks in an otherwise excellent cafeteria environment. Fruits were offered while vegetables were served and the percentage of students who had at least a bite was greater for vegetables (54.1%) than fruit (31.2%). ALC negatively influenced the amount of FV children consumed (mean FV servings= 0.63 in no ALC and 0.25 in ALC, p<0.05) For new guidance on school meals to positively influence diet, other supportive policies are also needed.

Grant Funding Source : RIDGE Center for Targeted Studies through the Southern Rural Development Center.
ncRNAs, Subnuclear Architecture, and Relocation of Regulated Transcription Units: A Strategy for Controlling Regulated Gene Programs in the Three Dimensional Space of the Nucleus
Authors: Rosenfeld Michael Geoffrey , Yang Liuqing , Lin Chunru , Liu Wen , Nunez Esperanza , Li Wenbo , hu qidong
Published: June 2021

Despite the long‐standing recognition of distinct subnuclear architectural features and the recent discovery of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), their potential interacting roles in gene regulation remain elusive. We have found that two ncRNAs, TUG1 and NEAT2, located in Polycomb body (PcGs) and interchromatin granules, respectively, control relocation of growth control genes required for regulation of cell cycle between these two subnuclear structures, depending on the status of Polycomb 2 protein (Pc2) methylation in response to growth signals. These ncRNAs direct assembly of multiple transcriptional co‐repressor/co‐activator complexes and can alter “reading” of the histone tail marks by the Pc2 chromodomain, thereby specifying growth control gene expression and cell proliferation in aspatially organized manner. We will discuss analogous events in actions of nuclear receptors. These observations provide a molecular logic integrating actions of transcription factor/co‐regulators, non‐histone protein methylation, and ncRNAs resident in distinct subnuclear architectural structures to achieve coordinated programs of regulated gene expression in the three‐dimensional space of the nucleus. We also will present data showing that ligand‐induced activation of subset of Pol III‐regulated Alu repeats in stem cells are important for exit from the stem cell state towards a neuronal differentiation program.
MicroRNA expression in heart failure
Authors: Port J. David , Sucharov Carmen , Robertson Alastair D , Bristow Michael R
Published: June 2021

MicroRNAs (miRs) are key regulators of gene expression during both normal and pathophysiological states. In the cardiac context, miRs are known to be involved in developmental processes as well as to be differentially regulated in various forms of heart disease. What is less clear is whether changes in the expression of specific miRs are secondary to heart failure or, rather, an underlying cause of the phenotype. Although changes in miR expression in and of themselves may be useful biomarkers of disease progression, they also have the potential to be predictors of therapeutic response. Predictive potential is enhanced further by simultaneous co‐analysis of mRNA expression and an examination of the interrelationship between miRs and their putative mRNA targets. Changes in miR expression that are potentially causal or maladaptive in the context of heart failure have been examined in animal models of miR mimic/inhibitor overexpression or miR knockout. Although these studies highly useful, they may not recapitulate all conditions found in human heart failure. A novel means of approaching miR regulation in humans is to examine changes in myocardial miR expression that are directionally reversible in patients that are responders versus non responders to heart failure therapeutic agents. Results of preliminary studies will be discussed.
Dietary protein source influence on growth and body composition in zebrafish
Authors: Smith Daniel Larry , Barry R. Jeff , Powell Mickie L. , Nagy Timothy R. , Watts Stephen A.
Published: June 2021

Objective

The utility of zebrafish as a model of nutrition research has been limited, partly due to the lack of standardized, defined diets and non‐invasive body composition assessment technologies.

Methods

Four‐ to six‐week post‐fertilization fish were randomized to 1 of 5 diets (standard: 48% protein by weight) with different protein sources (n=60 fish per diet): 1) fish protein, 2) casein, 3) soy, 4) wheat gluten and a 5) mixed protein source (all 4 combined). Fish were group housed (n≤10 fish/tank), and ad libitum (AL) fed for 12 weeks. Lengths were measured every 3 wks, and final body weight at study end. Body composition measures of lean and fat mass were performed by quantitative magnetic resonance (QMR) and compared with chemical carcass analysis (fat: r2=0.59, p<0.001; lean: r2=0.65, p<0.001). Group differences were assessed by ANOVA.

Results

A significant growth difference between diet groups was observed despite AL feeding (p<0.001; shortest: wheat; lightest: wheat and casein). Percent body fat was significantly higher in fish protein and wheat fed diet groups.

Conclusion

Feeding defined diets with isolated protein sources revealed significant growth and body composition differences between groups – with wheat fed fish being shorter and lighter, but still relatively fat – and demonstrates the utility of a zebrafish nutrition/obesity research model. This research was supported by P30DK056336.
Activating the genome during development and exit from mitosis
Authors: Zaret Kenneth S. , Xu Cheng-Ran , Caravaca Juanma
Published: June 2021

We are interested in the means by which transcription factors, inductive signals, and chromatin states control the specification of different mammalian cell types. We found that pioneer transcription factors endow the competence upon multipotent progenitor cells to activate particular cell‐specific genetic programs in development. Recently, we discovered that the same pioneer transcription factors that function in development remain bound to the genome during mitosis, when most factors and RNA polymerase are excluded and transcription is silent. Transcriptional re‐activation of the genome, following mitosis, requires re‐setting of cell‐specific programs that were initially established during development. We compared a diverse set of transcription factors involved in liver differentiation and find different modes of mitotic chromosome binding. The pioneer transcription factor FoxA1 exhibits virtually complete mitotic chromosome binding, whereas other liver factors bind with a range of efficiencies and binding modalities. The evident hierarchy of specific binding, storage site binding, partial chromatin binding, failure to bind mitotic chromosomes, and mitotic instability reflects the factors’ developmental roles in gene activation, and suggest that re‐activation of the genome following mitosis involves a replay of the network by which the cell type was established in development.
Black Spot, Black Death, Black Pearl: The Tales of Bacterial Effectors
Authors: Orth Kim
Published: June 2021

The Orth lab is interested in elucidating the activity of virulence factors (also called effectors) from pathogenic bacteria to gain molecular insight into critical pathogenic targets. Virulence factors are secreted by bacterial using a type III secretion system (T3SS) resembling a needle‐like structure that translocates virulence factors from bacteria into the cytosol of a host cell. Effectors are predicted to have usurped a eukaryotic activity that is then modified by the pathogen for its own advantage. My lab focuses on bacterial effectors because we predict that this research will help us provide novel insight into eukaryotic host signaling systems. Based on this hypothesis, we have discovered that pathogens utilize novel posttranslational modifications, including Ser/Thr acetylation and AMPylation, to control host signaling pathways. We have also uncovered unique mechanisms that manipulate the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton, induction of autophagy and the maintenance of cell membrane integrity. Our work is accomplished using a broad range of tools, including biochemistry, molecular microbiology, protein chemistry, structural biology, yeast genetics and cell biology.
Green Tea Extract Protects Against Fibrogenesis Associated With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis In Diet‐Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Bower Allyson M , Park Hea Jin , Chung Min-Yu , Lee Jiyoung , Bruno Richard S
Published: June 2021

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterized by oxidative stress and liver injury that increases fibrosis risk. We hypothesized that the antioxidant activity of green tea extract (GTE) would protect against NASH‐related liver injury, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. Wistar rats (16 wk old, n = 63) were fed a low‐fat (LFD) or high‐fat (HFD) diet containing 0, 1, or 2% GTE for 8 wk. The HFD compared to the LFD increased (P<0.05) body mass and plasma aspartate (AST) and alanine (ALT) aminotransferases. The HFD also increased hepatic α‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression and hydroxyproline (HYP) concentrations whereas hepatic total glutathione (tGSH) was lower. GTE (1–2%) normalized body mass to that of LFD controls, independent of energy intake. Rats fed GTE had lower ALT and AST compared to those fed a HFD. Rats fed GTE at 2% had lower αSMA whereas both GTE levels normalized HYP. tGSH was greater in rats fed GTE at 2% compared to those fed a HFD. tGSH was inversely related (P<0.05; r = −0.33 to −0.31) to αSMA and HYP, supporting that oxidative stress induces fibrogenesis. AST was also correlated (P<0.05; r = 0.30–0.31) to αSMA and HYP, supporting that liver injury promotes fibrogenesis. Thus, GTE protects against fibrogenesis during NASH by reducing hepatic injury and oxidative stress otherwise leading to hepatic stellate cell activation and collagen accumulation.

Grant Funding Source : USDA‐NRI
Association of serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations with dietary patterns in US children
Authors: Martineau Bernadette , Van Fleit Bill , Ganji Vijay
Published: June 2021

Contribution of dietary sources to vitamin D status is not clearly known. Although sunlight exposure is a major source of circulating serum 25(OH)D, diet is an important contributor in absence of or reduced exposure. Objective of this study was to determine relation between dietary patterns and serum 25(OH)D concentrations of US children using assay‐adjusted serum 25(OH)D data. Data from 2 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004 and 2005–2006 for individuals aged ≤ 19 y, were used to study the association between dietary patterns and serum 25(OH)D. Dietary patterns were established using factor analysis based on food‐frequency questionnaire data. Eigenvalues and Scree plot were used to derive 2 major principle factors. They were labeled as Western and Healthy dietary patterns. Serum 25(OH)D was significantly lower in Healthy dietary pattern group compared to Western dietary pattern group (61.9 vs 66.1 nmol/L; P<.002). In multivariate analysis, children with higher Western dietary contribution scores to overall diet showed a significant positive relation with serum 25(OH)D (β=33.8, P=.046). Serum 25(OH)D is associated with Western dietary pattern but not with Healthy pattern. Children consuming healthy pattern diet may benefit from vitamin D supplementation and sunlight exposure (outdoor activities).

Grant Funding Source: None
Breastfeeding & obesity: WIC policy changes increase breastfeeding rates and reduce obesity at age four
Authors: Whaley Shannon , Koleilat Maria , Whaley Mike
Published: June 2021

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides nutritious food and nutrition and breastfeeding education to low‐income pregnant and postpartum women, and children up to age 5. About half of all infants in the US receive services from the WIC Program. The objectives of this research are to (1) examine the impact of the 2009 changes to the WIC food packages on the rate and duration of exclusive breastfeeding among California WIC participants and (2) assess the impact of breastfeeding on childhood obesity rates at age four. ANOVA was used to analyze administrative data on 180,000+ infants in California to demonstrate impacts of policy changes on breastfeeding rates. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine the association between breastfeeding behavior and obesity rates at age four on a sample of 80,000 children served by WIC from birth to age four. Rates of fully breastfeeding increased by 86% and rates of infant formula use decreased significantly following the changes to the WIC food packages. Duration of breastfeeding to 2 and 6 months also increased significantly in the months following the policy change. Breastfeeding initiation was associated with a 26% reduction in childhood obesity at age four, and breastfeeding duration to six months conferred additional reductions in obesity rates of almost twice that amount for some sub groups. These data provide strong support for the impact of policy changes on WIC breastfeeding rates as well as the impact of breastfeeding on rates of childhood obesity among the low‐income population served by WIC. Funding was provided by the USDA FNS through a grant for WIC administered by the CA DPH.
Child Obesity and Motor Development Delays
Authors: Andres Aline , Chiaro Carrie L , Tang Xinyu , Casey Patrick H , Bellando Jayne B , Badger Thomas M
Published: June 2021

Childhood obesity has been associated with delays in motor development using weight‐for‐length z‐scores and subcutaneous fat. To study this further, percent body fat and motor development were assessed in children ages 3 to 24 months. Included were 455 children with a total of 1882 longitudinal observations. Standard anthropometric measures and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scans were used to evaluate growth and measure body fat mass. The motor scale of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II was used to assess motor development at 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 months. Overweight children were significantly more likely to have a lower motor development score at a subsequent assessment compared to lean children (P=0.01). Additionally, children with higher fat mass were significantly more likely to have lower motor scores at the time of the body composition measures as well as at a subsequent assessment of motor development (P=0.02 and P=0.03, respectively). These data confirm that overweight children have statistically lower motor development scores. Despite the statistical significance of these results, absolute differences in motor scores between lean and overweight children were very small (0.7 at 3 mo, 1.9 at 6 mo, 2.0 at 9 mo, 0.4 at 12 mo, 4.5 at 24 mo), and thus the clinical significance and level of concern during the first 2 years of life may be negligible. USDA‐ARS CRIS# 6251‐51000‐005‐03S.
Development of a proof of concept bioassay core laboratory for in vivo testing of functional food products in animal models
Authors: McCutcheon Kathleen Lee , Martin Roy J , Keenan Michael J
Published: June 2021

The LA Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) has established a Bioassay Core Lab to assist individual LSU AgCenter scientists in proof of concept validation of novel dietary products and bioactive compounds. Food and botanicals are generally recognized as safe, yet, chemically or structurally modified the new functional food products require safety and efficacy validation. In vitro analysis can verify quality and metabolic activity, but it is vital to confirm physiological functions and expected health claims in vivo before clinical trials, production and marketing can proceed. In vivo studies must be carefully designed using appropriate animal models and methods to determine dose response, analyze biomarkers, and determine utilization of the bioactive components. Many scientists do not have the experience, resources, or funding to conduct pre‐clinical studies and can delay product development. This core lab allows for experienced personnel to design and implement animal studies without compromising time, resources, and productivity of individual scientists. Animal models, diets, delivery methods, sample collection and data analysis specific to the product can be completed with support from the LAES. To date, the core lab has completed 32 studies, screened over 100 products, and provided preliminary data essential for continued research and production of health promoting functional foods.
A new molecular mechanism for blockade of prostaglandin E2 expression by sulforaphane
Authors: Templeton Dennis J. , Zhou Jiping , Cross Janet V.
Published: June 2021

Molecular mechanisms for cancer prevention by sulforaphane (SFN) are becoming known. We hypothesized that Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), an inflammatory lipid that promotes cancer cell proliferation and tumor progression, may control cancer in part through interfering with PGE2 synthesis in cancer cells.

SFN suppressed PGE2 expression in the human lung carcinoma cell line A549, and in A549 xenograft tumors in mice. Only transient suppression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) was detected. In contrast, SFN blocked transcription of the microsomal PGE2 synthase (mPGES‐1) gene by blocking hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF‐1α) mediated transcription of mPGES‐1. HIF‐1α itself was reduced at the protein but not mRNA level. Loss of HIF‐1α protein was not a result of HIF‐1α protein destabilization. Instead, SFN inhibition of HIF‐1α translation was dependent on internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequences in the 5′ untranslated portion of the HIF‐1α mRNA.

These results demonstrate a new mechanism through which SFN can reduce PGE2 synthesis, through IRES‐dependent inhibition of HIF‐1α protein expression and suppression of mPGES1.

This work was supported by NIH grants R01AT004323 (JVC) and R01CA113899 (DJT).
Gamma‐tocopherol but not mixed tocopherols attenuates moderate colon inflammation and inflammation‐promoted colon tumorigenesis in mice
Authors: Jiang Qing , Jiang Ziying , Moreland Michelle , Jones Yava , Snyder Paul , Jang Yumi
Published: June 2021

Inflammation promotes cancer development. Gamma‐tocopherol (γT), the predominant form of vitamin E in US diets, is shown to have anti‐inflammatory activities. Here we examined anticancer efficacy of γT and a mixture of tocopherols against colon cancer which is induced by azoxymethane (AOM, 10mg/kg) and promoted by severe or moderate inflammation through varied concentrations or cylces of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in male BALB/c mice. When AOM‐induced tumorigenesis was promoted by 3‐cycle DSS (1.5–2.5%), supplementation of γT or mixed tocopherols (at 1000mg/kg diet) had no effects on tumor incidence or size. Consistently, γT did not attenuate colon inflammation induced by 3‐cycle 2.5% DSS. In contrast, when AOM‐induced carcinogenesis was promoted by relatively mild one‐cycle 1.5% DSS, supplementation with γT but not mixed tocopherols suppressed the incidence of macroscopic adenomas (P=0.06) and significantly decreased polps with size larger than 2mm2 (P<0.05). γT also significantly reduced the number of polps (>2mm2) by a 2‐ cycle, 1.5% DSS treatment even when the supplementation started after AOM injection. All the polyps had enhanced translocation of beta‐catenin from membrane (in normal tissues) to the cytosol or nucleus. Furthermore, γT but not mixed tocopherols significantly attenuated DSS (1.5%)‐induced colon inflammation and tissue damage, as indicated by clinical scoring feces and histological evaluation of colon tissues. Our study supports a role of γT in chemoprevention of colon cancer via suppression of moderate inflammation.
Differences in carotenoid content of normal elderly and Alzheimerˈs brains
Authors: Craft Neal E. , Gierhart Dennis , Dorey C. Kathy
Published: June 2021

Alzheimerˈs Disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative disease that inflicts >4,500,000 US elderly. Antioxidants, such as carotenoids, have been implicated in the prevention of degenerative diseases and recent data correlates blood and macular carotenoid levels with cognition.

Purpose

To measure and compare the major carotenoids in normal elderly and AD human brain.

Methods

Samples of normal and AD brain tissue from frontal lobe cortex and occipital cortex were examined. Sections were dissected into gray and white matter, extracted with organic solvents, and analyzed by HPLC.

Results

At least 16 carotenoids, 3 tocopherols, and retinol were present in human brain. Xanthophylls accounted for >70% of carotenoids in the brain. Mean concentrations of carotenoids ranged from 3.5–15.3 pmol/g. Combining all brains, lutein (LUT, P<0.001) and zeaxanthin (ZX, P<0.02) were higher in gray vs white matter. ZX and LUT were lower in AD brain (P<0.002, P<0.04, respectively). Healthy brain had 2× more ZX and 30% more LUT than AD brain. Retinol and α‐tocopherol were lower in AD brain, (p<0.002, P<0.006).

Conclusions

AD status is negatively correlated with levels of ZX, LUT, vitamins A and E in specific brain tissue.
ZnT2 accumulates zinc in lysosomes and mitochondria to signal mammary gland involution
Authors: Hennigar Stephen R , Sharma Supriya , Seo Young Ah , Kelleher Shannon L
Published: June 2021

Post‐lactation, the mammary gland (MG) undergoes massive apoptotic‐ and lysosomal‐mediated cell death and involutes back to the pre‐pregnant state. Recent data from our lab suggests zinc (Zn) import into specific intracellular compartments regulates this process. We found that the Zn transporter ZnT2 imports Zn into vesicles, which is required for Zn transfer into milk during lactation. In addition, ZnT2 imports Zn into mitochondria, which decreases ATP and activates apoptosis in mammary epithelial cells (MECs). Thus, we hypothesized that ZnT2‐mediated Zn accumulation into lysosomes and mitochondria signals MG involution (INVO). We determined that ZnT2 accumulates in lysosomes using sucrose gradient fractionation of MG from involuting mice. This increased lysosomal Zn and activity of the Zn‐dependent lysosomal enzyme acid phosphatase (AP), a marker of INVO. ZnT2 overexpressed in MECs in vitro co‐localized with lysosomes (LAMP1) and mitochondria (Mitotracker) and increased AP activity, apoptosis and cell death. ZnT2 overexpressed in MG using a recombinant adenovirus in vivo increased mitochondrial Zn, activated apoptosis and increased AP activity, which activated premature INVO. Collectively, these data suggest Zn accumulation into lysosomes and mitochondria acts as a regulatory signal to induce MG INVO. Dysregulation in this process may lead to premature INVO and suboptimal lactation.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by NIH R01 HD058614 to SLK
Evaluating the quality of foods and beverages offered to preschool children at childcare centers using the Healthy Eating Index‐2005 (HEI‐2005)
Authors: Erinosho Temitope , Ball Sarah , Hanson Phillip , Ward Dianne
Published: June 2021

Nutrition standards for evaluating foods offered in childcare settings have included the Dietary Reference Intakes, the Child and Adult Care Food Program's guidelines, and the American Dietetic Association's benchmarks. To date, no studies have applied the HEI‐2005 to foods offered in childcare settings. The current study evaluated the diet quality of foods offered to preschool children in 20 North Carolina childcare centers using the HEI‐2005. Four days of dietary observations were conducted and 3 children were observed daily at each center (240 observations). The total HEI‐2005 score for the centers ranged from 60.73 to 79.96 out of a possible 100 points. All centers met the recommendation for saturated fat, and the majority met recommendations for total fruit, whole fruit, total grains, and milk. None met the recommendations for total vegetables, dark green/orange vegetables and legumes, whole grains, oils, and meat/beans, while half exceeded recommendations for sodium and calories from solid fats and added sugars. Findings show that childcare centers need to improve the overall quality of foods offered to children to ensure that foods provided contribute to children's daily nutrition requirements.
Prevalence of low plasma zinc concentration and related risk factors among young children and women of reproductive age in a nationally representative sample survey in Cameroon
Authors: Brown Kenneth H. , Engle-Stone Reina , Ndjebayi Alex O. , Nankap Martin , Killilea David W.
Published: June 2021

Information on the risk of zinc deficiency is required from nationally representative samples to assess the need for zinc intervention programs. We completed a multi‐stage, cluster survey of 812 children 12–59 mo of age and 853 women of reproductive age in Cameroon to assess plasma zinc concentration (PZC). 30 clusters were randomly chosen in each of 3 zones (North, South, and Large Cities); 10 households were randomly selected per cluster. IZiNCG recommendations for blood collection and processing and for measuring PZC were followed. PZC was measured by ICP‐OES; plasma C‐reactive protein (CRP) and α1‐acid‐glycoprotein (AGP) were measured by ELISA. Mean (95% CI) PZC, adjusted for CRP, AGP, time since last meal and time of day of blood collection and elapsed time to centrifugation, were 56.1 (54.9–57.2) μg/dL among children and 50.9 (49.6–52.2) μg/dL among women. Low adjusted PZC (<65 μg/dL) was present in 81% (77–85%) of children and 89% (86–91%) of women (< 66 μg/dL for non‐pregnant and < 50 μg/dL for pregnant women). Risk factors for low PZC among both children and women were: living in the North region or in rural areas, low SES, and low maternal education. The high prevalence of low PZC among both children and women in Cameroon indicates an urgent need for zinc intervention programs.
Caveolin‐1 silencing induces the inhibition of osteosarcoma cells proliferation
Authors: Gasperi-Campani Anna , Pancotti Fabia , Roncuzzi Laura
Published: June 2021

Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1) is a multifunctional scaffolding protein regulating multiple processes in cancer. A growing body of evidence links elevated expression of Cav‐1 to an aggressive phenotype of cancer cells and to a poor prognosis in several tumors. In this study, we analyzed the effect of Cav‐1 silencing in cell lines from osteosarcoma (OS), the most common primary malignancy of the bone, where metastasis is a primary cause of death, despite intensive chemotherapy and surgical resections. We utilized cancer cell lines in which we first found Cav‐1 expressed at high levels and we knocked‐down it by small interfering RNA (siRNA) duplex. Results show that siRNA‐mediated down‐regulation of Cav‐1 caused a highly significant reduction of protein levels in each cell line. 72 hours after transfection, fresh medium was added to the cells, which were maintained in culture for further three days and the inhibition of Cav‐1 expression remained stable up to that time. Cav‐1 inhibition in OS cells induced a marked increase in the expression of p21 and a significant decrease of cyclin E/CDK2, phosphoRb and Akt, associated with the scaffolding domain of Cav‐1 and which down‐regulates p21 expression. These findings indicate that Cav‐1 silencing may represent a new potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma treatment and provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the tumor‐promoting functions of the protein.

Grants from MIUR (RFO, PRIN), Roberto Pallottiˈs Legacy for Cancer Research, Cornelia Pallottiˈs Legacy for Cancer Research, University of Bologna, Italy
High Fat Diet Induces Lung Fibrosis in ApoE‐deficient Mice Potentially Through Increase in Systemic and Lung Tumor Necrosis Factor
Authors: Naura Amarjit Singh , Ju Jihang , Kim Hogyoung , Errami Youssef , Boulares Hamid
Published: June 2021

High fat is increasingly considered the basis for not only cardiovascular pathologies but also several complications affecting other organs such as lungs. In this study, we examined the effect of high fat on lung integrity using ApoE−/− mice model of high‐fat (HF) diet‐induced atherosclerosis. A 12 week HF diet regimen induced systemic production of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, GMC‐SF, RANTES, IL‐1α, IL‐2, and IL‐12 with TNF‐α as the predominant cytokine. Concomitantly, TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, and MIP‐1α were detected in brochoalveolar lavage fluids of these mice, coinciding with lung inflammation. Such airway inflammation was associated with marked collagen deposition in lungs of ApoE−/−mice, and correlated well with an increase in tissue TGF‐β1 levels and MMP‐9 activity. In vitro exposure of mouse lung cells to oxidized‐ LDL induced a time‐dependent expression of TNF‐α. Repeated intra‐tracheal administration of TNF‐α, induced a robust collagen deposition in WT mice similar to that induced by HF diet in ApoE−/− mice. TNF‐α administration induced expression of several factors critical for lung fibrosis, such as TGF‐β1, adhesion molecules, collagen type‐I in the lungs of WT mice. Altogether, these results suggest that HF may promote chronic inflammatory conditions conducive to lung fibrosis potentially through TNF‐α‐mediated processes, clearly demonstrating the influence of cardiovascular inflammation on lung homeostasis.
Late remodeling of extracellular matrix after acute inflammatory injury or chronic distension
Authors: Prist Iryna Hirata , Salles Alessandra Grassi , de Lima Salgado Thais M. , de Souza Heraldo Possolo
Published: June 2021

Extracellular matrix remodeling is a crucial step in the healing process after inflammatory or infectious insult. We studied the role of matrix metalloproteinases in models of disease secondary to an acute inflammatory injury (burned skin) or chronic aggression (skin from obese patients submitted to gastroplasty).

Skin samples were extracted using a 4 mm punch from abdomen of patients in late post‐operative of bariatric surgery, recovered from third degree burns or control subjects. RNA was extracted by TRIzol and evaluated by quantitative PCR. MMPs activity was determined by zymography.

In skin from burned patients, MMPs 2 and 9 expression was not different from control subjects. Obese patients present a higher MMP2 expression, compared to controls (2.4±0.56 × 1.0±0.1, respectively, p<0.05), however MMP9 mRNA was not detectable in these patients, even when conventional PCR was used. Interestingly, in spite of higher mRNA amounts, MMP2 activity was reduced in burned patients compared to controls (1.3±0.1 × 2.6±0.5 A.U., respectively, p<0.05), while MMP9 activity had a large variability, preventing any conclusion.

We conclude that an acute inflammatory stimulus leads to late decreased MMP2 activity, what can explain the extensive fibrosis observed in these patients. In a more prolonged injury, due to chronic skin distension caused by obesity, MMP9 expression is affected leading to flabby skin deposits.
Preload of dietary fiber added to oil emulsion efficiently reduces energy intake by systemic PYY and vagal CCK signaling in mice
Authors: RASOAMANANA Rojo , CHAUMONTET Catherine , TOME Daniel , FROMENTIN Gilles , DARCEL Nicolas
Published: June 2021

Most of food currently commercialized have large amounts of lipid and have been contributing to the increasing prevalence of obesity. In front of this, adding dietary fiber (DF) to these foods may be an interesting option to fight overfeeding. We tested the hypothesis that mixing DF to oil emulsion (OE) may increase its satiating properties. We developed therefore a DF‐OE preload (guar gum and fructo‐oligosaccharide fibers mixed with 20% OE of rapeseed oil in water, 14% weight per volume of total DF, 1.2 kcal). Compared to OE alone, we found that DF‐OE preload reduced the daily energy intake by 14% in mice fed with standard diet. Exploring underlying mechanisms exhibited that DF‐OE (i) elicited increased Peptide YY (PYY) release at 30min and 3h after treatment and (ii) up‐regulated both hypothalamic melanocortin type 4 receptor (MC4R) transcripts 4‐fold and pro‐opiomelanocortin (POMC) protein 2‐fold (90min and 6h after respectively). Peripheral blockade of cholecystokinin (CCK) ‐1 receptor abolished its effects on food intake while glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor blockade had no influence. Taken together, these data show that adding fibers to oil emulsion improves its satiating properties by stimulating anorectic gut‐brain signaling which involve systemic PYY, vagal CCK and hypothalamic POMC/MC4R signaling.
Effect of incorporating avocados in meals on self‐reported subjective feelings related to satiety in healthy overweight adults
Authors: Sabaté Joan , Wien Michelle , Haddad Ella
Published: June 2021

Background

Avocados are a rich source of fiber and monounsaturated, which are nutritional factors linked to enhanced satiety. The benefit of consuming avocados at a meal on post‐meal satiety is unknown.

Aim and Methods

A randomized 3×3 single‐blind crossover design (three 1‐day study periods scheduled 1 week apart) in 26 healthy overweight adults (16 women,10 men; mean±SD age 40.8±11.0 years; BMI 28.1±2.4 kg/m2) was conducted. Subjects consumed a standardized breakfast meal containing 25% of their daily energy needs on each of the 3 days, followed by 1 of 3 lunch meals [Control, avocado‐free (35% of daily energy needs); isocaloric Avocado Inclusive (AI; 35% of daily energy needs); and, Avocado Added (AA; 41% of daily energy needs). Visual analog scales (VAS) were administered 30, 60, 120, 180 and 300 minutes after the start of the lunch meal to assess subjective feelings related to satiety. The area under the curve (AUC; %*min) was evaluated using the trapezoidal method (mixed model included treatment and phase as fixed effects and subjects nested within sequence as random effects).

Results

There was no significant difference between the 3 treatments in the AUC for the self‐reported subjective feelings related to satiety (P = 0.19–0.87).

Conclusion

The inclusion or addition of avocado to a lunch meal does not influence self‐reported subjective feelings related to satiety over a 5 hour post‐meal period.

Funded by the Hass Avocado Board