bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship Between Infant Iron Status, Maternal‐Infant Interactions, and Cultural Ideology
Authors: McNeill Emily N. , Nevins Julie E.H. , Canfield Richard L. , Haas Jere D.
Published: June 2021

Background

Although there is no clinical definition of iron deficiency (ID) in infants younger than 12 months, studies have shown that low levels of serum ferritin in early infancy is linked to deficits in behavior, cognition, and motor activity. These deficits can negatively affect the infant's social interactions with the mother and other caretakers, and thus social and cognitive development.

Objective

To describe the relationship between iron status in early infancy, the quality of maternal‐infant interactions, and maternal cultural ideology.

Methods

In this study, 4–6 month old infants (n= 64) and their mothers were evaluated with PROCESS, the Pediatric Review of Children's Environmental Support and Stimulation. The PROCESS, derived from the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment‐Inventory for Infants (HOME), was designed to assess maternal caregiving and infant response in a clinical setting, and provides scores in four categories: maternal warmth, caring, responsiveness, and sensitivity in a clinical setting. As the PROCESS is a culturally sensitive measure, some questions were removed from the total score to form a new scale named “Cultural Context.” Infant anemia and iron stores were assessed with hemoglobin (Hb) <11.0 g/dL and serum ferritin, respectively. Associations between infant iron levels and the overall quality of the mother‐infant interactions, as well as each separate category, were estimated using linear regression models in SPSS. Potential confounders that were tested include maternal education and age, infant age, birth weight, number of previous children and the Cultural Context scale of the PROCESS.

Results

Infant Hb alone did not significantly predict the quality of maternal‐infant interactions (b=1.6 ± 1.067 (SE), p=.137). When the confounder Cultural Context was included in the model infant Hb became positively associated with the quality of maternal‐infant interactions (b=1.7 ± 0.8, p<.05). Infant anemia status was not significantly associated with the quality of maternal‐infant interactions Infant serum ferritin was also not significantly associated with any category of the maternal‐infant interaction nor the total PROCESS score.

Conclusion

These results could be important in predicting the quality of maternal‐infant interactions based on infant Hb and highlight the importance of including cultural biases in socio‐behavioral analyses.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by USDA/CUAES (#NYC‐399413) & Cornell Human Ecology Alumni Association; JN supported by NSF GRFP
Quinoa Ancient Whole Grain Gluten‐Free Snacks
Authors: Kahlon Talwinder Singh , Avena_Bustillos Roberto j , Chiu Mei‐Chen M
Published: June 2021

Four kinds of whole grain gluten‐free low fat and salt quinoa snacks were evaluated. The snacks were Quinoa, Quinoa‐Pepper, Quinoa‐Ginger and Quinoa‐Turmeric. In the Asian cuisines ginger and turmeric are very common. Ginger has been reported to improve blood flow and prevent joint pains. Turmeric has been reported to have wound healing potential. All the snacks contained 6% corn oil and 2% salt. Snack dough was prepared using 120 mL water for 100 g dry ingredients. About 22 g of snack dough was placed on each side of preheated KrumKake Baker and cooked for 1.75 minutes. Seventy in‐house volunteers judged Color/Appearance of Quinoa, Quinoa‐Pepper and Quinoa‐Ginger snacks significantly higher than Quinoa‐Turmeric snacks. Odor/Aroma of Quinoa‐Turmeric snacks was significantly higher Quinoa‐Ginger snacks. Texture/Mouth‐feel of Quinoa‐Pepper, Quinoa‐Ginger and Quinoa‐Turmeric snacks was higher than Quinoa snacks. Taste/Flavor and Acceptance was similar in four kinds of snacks tested. Water activity of all the snacks tested ranged from 0.41–0.55 suggesting that these snacks were crispy with good microbial stability. These snacks would be quite filling due to their expansion of 2.6–3.1 times due to high porosity. There were significant differences in color and texture of the snacks tested. Acceptance of snacks tested was Quinoa 79%, Quinoa‐Pepper 77%, Quinoa‐Ginger 73% and Quinoa‐Turmeric 70%. These snacks contained only 3–4 ingredients and could be made in any house kitchen or commercial production. Acceptance of 70–79% is very desirable. These healthy nutritious snacks offer choice for all including individuals sensitive to gluten.

Support or Funding Information

USDA‐ARS Base funding
Increased Gastrointestinal Permeability During Prolonged Physical Stress Is Associated with Lower Energy Intakes but Not Dietary Macronutrient Composition
Authors: Karl J. Philip , Margolis Lee M , Murphy Nancy E , Martini Svein , Gundersen Yngvar , Castellani John W , Carrigan Christopher T , Teien Hilde K , Madslien Elisabeth H , Montain Scott J , Pasiakos Stefan M
Published: June 2021

Increased gastrointestinal permeability (GP) induced by prolonged physical stress may contribute to systemic inflammation by facilitating translocation of microbial compounds from the gut. Though undernutrition and macronutrient intake independently modulate GP, relationships between diet and GP during prolonged physical stress are not well characterized. To examine the effects of energy and macronutrient intakes on GP during prolonged physical stress, 73 soldiers (71M/2F, 20 ± 1 yr, BMI 23 ± 2 kg/m2 [M ± SD]) were provided 3 combat rations/d, or 3 rations/d supplemented with 1000 kcal/d from protein‐ or carbohydrate‐based snacks during a 4‐d, 51 km cross‐country ski march (SKI). Energy intake was measured using ration‐specific checklists, and daily energy expenditure was measured in a subset (n = 41) by doubly‐labeled water. GP was measured in a subset (n = 48) over 24 hr before and again during SKI by dual sugar (sucralose and mannitol) absorption test. Plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and serum IL‐6 were measured immediately before and after SKI as markers of microbial translocation and inflammation, respectively. Energy expenditure during SKI averaged 6179 ± 670 kcal/d. Energy deficit during SKI averaged 55 ± 12% in the combined cohort and was associated with a 2.8 ± 1.2 kg weight loss. GP increased 48 ± 7% (P < 0.001) during SKI independent of diet group (P = 0.96), and was positively associated with changes in LPS (r = 0.31, P = 0.04). Individuals with increased LPS experienced greater increases in IL‐6 relative to individuals with decreased LPS (P‐interaction = 0.07). Energy (r = −0.29), fat (r = −0.34), and carbohydrate (r = −0.31) intakes were associated with changes in GP (P ≤ 0.05), whereas the magnitude of energy deficit (r = 0.05, P = 0.79) and protein intake (r = −0.06, P = 0.67) were not. Associations between macronutrient intake and changes in GP were not significant when adjusted for total energy intake. Although correlative, these findings are consistent with microbial translocation concurrent to increased GP contributing to the inflammation induced by prolonged physical stress. Low energy intake, independent of the magnitude of energy deficit or dietary macronutrient composition, may potentiate increases in GP during periods of high energetic demand.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by US Army Medical Research and Material Command, and the Norwegian Defense Research Establishment agreement NO. W81XWH‐12‐0279.
Effect of Frequent Broccoli Intake on Rat Gut Microbiota Metabolism and Composition
Authors: Wang Yanling , Liu Xiaoji , Miller Michael J , Jeffery Elizabeth H
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to investigate whether frequent cooked broccoli intake can modify the composition and metabolism of gut microbiota, specifically if broccoli feeding improves the ability of gut microbiota to hydrolyze glucoraphanin (termed myrosinase activity) and release bioactive sulforaphane. Myrosinase activity of cecal microbiota from adult male F344 rats fed with either 10% blanched, freeze‐dried (cooked) broccoli diet or control diet (AIN93G) was measured as the evaluation parameter. Results showed that feeding rats the broccoli diet for 4 days significantly increased myrosinase activity ex vivo compared with control diet (p<0.001). The stimulated myrosinase activity maintained those elevated levels when rats were fed the broccoli diet for longer periods (7 and 14 days). Remarkably, high‐throughput DNA sequencing data revealed a corresponding change in the gut microbiota composition based on microbial community analysis (MCA). The community composition of cecal microbiota from rats fed with the broccoli diet for 4, 7 and 14 days was clearly different from those fed for 0 and 1 day. To further identify which components in the broccoli diet that caused the change, a glucoraphanin‐free broccoli diet was made by hydrolyzing all the glucoraphanin to sulforaphane with exogenous myrosinase and was then fed to rats. Results showed cecal microbiota of rats fed with the whole broccoli diet exerted 4‐fold higher myrosinase activity than those rats fed the glucoraphanin‐free broccoli diets, indicating that it was the glucoraphanin in the broccoli, rather than sulforaphane, fiber or other components, that played the causative role of stimulation in the gut microbiota. Interestingly, the increased myrosinase activity was lost when the 4‐day broccoli diet was switched back to control diet for 3 days prior to harvest. Similar changes in glucoraphanin metabolic activity were observed using feces in place of cecal microbiota, indicating the potential for fecal metabolism to act as a biomarker of exposure. This study suggests that frequent ingestion of cooked broccoli may enhance the capability of gut microbiota to release the anti‐cancer bioactive sulforaphane from cooked broccoli.

Support or Funding Information

USDA/NIFA 2016‐67017‐24430
Beetroot Extract Increases the Expression of Uncoupling Protein 1 in Primary Brown Adipocytes in Vitro
Authors: Otieno Dammah , Lee Sang Gil , Kang Hye Won
Published: June 2021

Increasing energy expenditure is a common and ideal way to prevent obesity which is defined as the accumulation of excess body fat, especially adipose tissue. The human body has two types of adipose tissues, white and brown adipose tissues. White adipose tissue stores excess calories as fat, which is evidently connected to developing obesity. On the other hand, brown adipose tissue utilizes stored and circulating fat by a non‐shivering thermogenesis which is promoted by uncoupling protein (UCP) 1, a critical protein to generate heat. With the evidence of metabolically active brown adipose tissue in human body, it is noted that activation of brown adipose tissue may be a potential way to improve obese condition. Although various studies have been performed to activate brown adipose tissue, there is limited information regarding foods in the activation of brown adipose tissue. Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a root vegetable commonly found in grocery markets and consumed by most people worldwide. Some studies have shown the beneficial possibilities of beetroot especially in obese conditions, but it still remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of beetroot extract in brown adipocytes through a non‐shivering thermogenesis. Briefly, brown preadipoctyes were isolated from interscapular brown adipose tissue of 4 week‐old male C57BL/6 mice, cultured and then differentiated to become mature brown adipocytes, characterized by multilocular lipid droplets. The cells were treated with beetroot extract (200ug/ml) 2 days before harvesting for RNA extraction. The expression of genes that are involved in the regulation of a non‐shivering thermogenesis were measured using real‐time PCR. Treatment using beetroot extract increased the expression of UCP1 gene. However peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) α and PPAR‐γ coactivator 1 α genes, transcriptional factors involved in regulating UCP1 were not changed. Interestingly PPARγ gene was increased, which may be indicated as an accelerated differentiation. Nuclear respiratory factor 1 gene which is related to mitochondria biogenesis was slightly increased. Taken together, this data suggests anti‐obesity effect of beetroot by increasing UCP1 in a non‐shivering thermogenesis of brown adipocytes.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by USDA.
Comparison of Anti‐obesity Effects of Onion Peels by Different Extraction Methods Using 3T3‐L1 and Primary Brown Adipocytes In Vitro
Authors: Lee Sang Gil , Kang Hye Won
Published: June 2021

Obesity, indicated by excess body fat accumulation, is a serious health problem. Various functional foods have been attracted for improving obese condition. Onion peel, a by‐product of onion has shown possible benefits in obesity studies. Since onion peel is not the edible part of onion, it is important to select a relevant extraction method to obtain beneficial compounds from onion peel for a targeted purpose. Different extracting process causes the distinct selectivity of functional compounds which may have different biological effects. Here, we utilized two onion peel extracts obtained through 60% ethanol extraction (OPE) and boiling water extraction (OPW). The purpose of this study was to compare anti‐obesity effect of OPE and OPW in white and brown adipocytes which are related to energy storage and utilization, respectively. Briefly, 3T3‐L1, fibroblasts that mimic white preadipocytes and primary brown preadipocytes isolated from interscapular brown adipose tissue of 4 week‐old male C57BL/6 mice were cultured and differentiated into mature adipocytes. Various concentrations of OPE and OPW were treated to the cells during differentiation and then gene expression was measured using real‐time PCR. In 3T3‐L1 cells, OPE decreased the expression of proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), fatty acid synthase, and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase genes which are involved in adipogenesis and lipogenesis respectively whereas OPW did not. Interestingly, both OPE and OPW significantly increased the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 α and PPARγ coactivator 1 α (PGC1α) genes which are related to the regulation of fatty acid oxidation. In brown adipocytes, PPARγ was significantly decreased by both OPE and OPW treatment. Only OPE significantly increased uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gene which is associated with a non‐shivering thermogenesis, increasing energy expenditure by utilizing fatty acids. However UCP1 gene was not altered by OPW treatment. This was not correlated with the expression of PGC1α gene and other downstream genes of PGC1α. Collectively, onion peel extracts exhibited anti‐obesity effects in both white and brown adipocytes. However, the effects and mechanisms were affected by the different extraction methods.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by USDA
Zinc Transporter 7 (Znt7) Knockout in Mice Differentially Affects Lipid Metabolism in Adipose Tissues
Authors: Huang Liping , Tepaamorndech Surapun , Kirschke Catherine P. , Pedersen Theresa L. , Keyes William R. , Newman John W.
Published: June 2021

Znt7 (Slc30a7, zinc transporter 7) knockout (KO) mice are mildly zinc deficient, accompanied with low body weight gain and body fat accumulation. Immunohistochemistry study revealed that ZnT7 protein was more abundantly expressed in the mouse subcutaneous fat than the epididymal (visceral) fat. To investigate whether Znt7 KO had differential effects on fat metabolism in subcutaneous and epididymal fat depots, we examined fatty acid composition and insulin sensitivity in both fat depots isolated from Znt7 KO and control mice. We showed that Znt7 KO had differentially adverse effects on fatty acid metabolism and insulin action in the subcutaneous fat depot but not in the epididymal fat depot, consistent with the ZnT7 protein expression pattern in the tissue. Furthermore, we found that ZnT7 protein expression was significantly up‐regulated by lipogenic differentiation and ZnT7 expression reached a peak when 3T3‐L1 cells were fully differentiated. We further demonstrated that 3T3‐L1 adipocytes with Znt7 expression 70% knocked down had low activations of Akt and Erk1/2 upon lipogenic stimulation leading to low glucose uptake and lipid synthesis in adipocytes. Our findings strongly suggest a role for ZnT7 in adipocyte lipogenesis.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the United States Department of Agriculture, ARS CRIS projects 2032‐51000‐004‐00D and 2032‐51530‐022‐00D.
Dietary procyanidins lower serum triglyceride levels via up‐regulation in Pparα and its downstream target gene expression
Authors: Ricketts Marie‐Louise , Downing Laura E
Published: June 2021

Hypertriglyceridemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. We previously demonstrated that a grape seed procyanidin extract (GSPE) reduces serum triglycerides (TG) in normolipidemic mice and dyslipidemic rats. The current study aimed to identify additional molecular mechanisms underlying the TG‐lowering effect of GSPE.

Eight‐week old C57BL/6 mice were fed a standard rodent chow and administered vehicle (water) or GSPE (250 mg/kg) for 14 hours. Following termination, blood was collected and biochemical analyses were performed to assess serum TG and fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21) levels. Liver was harvested and gene expression was analyzed via qPCR. Statistical significance was determined using a student's t‐test.

GSPE increased peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (Pparα) expression (82%, p<0.05) and several target‐genes, including Fgf21 (eight‐fold, p<0.01), Cpt1a (40%, p<0.01), and ApoA5 (62%, p<0.05). In agreement with these results, serum Fgf21 levels were increased eight‐fold (p<0.05), compared to control, while TG levels were reduced (28%, p<0.001). Additionally, bile acid (BA) biosynthetic gene expression was up‐regulated, in particular Cyp7a1 expression was increased five‐fold (p<0.0001), indicative of increased BA synthesis in the presence of GSPE. Pparα target genes involved in biliary cholesterol excretion were also increased in the presence of GSPE (Abcg5/8, 47% and 42%, respectively, p<0.01), as was fecal cholesterol excretion (7.5%, p<0.05).

In conclusion, we propose that GSPE increases BA biosynthesis, which then increases Pparα expression, facilitating increased expression of Fgf21 and genes associated with fatty acid oxidation, ultimately leading to increased TG catabolism and reduced serum TG levels. Pparα activation also leads to increased biliary cholesterol excretion and fecal cholesterol content.

Support or Funding Information

Funding provided by USDA‐Hatch project NEV0749
Internephron Coupling Increases the Efficiency of Dynamic Autoregulation
Authors: Sgouralis Ioannis , Layton Anita
Published: June 2021

In the kidney, dynamic autoregulation is provided by the response of the pre‐glomerular vascular resistance to time‐dependent perturbations of blood pressure. The two major autoregulatory mechanisms are the myogenic response, which is activated by afferent arteriole blood pressure, and tubuloglomerular feedback, which is activated by deviations in distal nephron chloride concentration. While the two mechanisms operate primarily on the single nephron level, signals that are transmitted through the supplying vasculature give rise to substantial internephron interactions. To study the impact of internephron coupling, we develop a mathematical model of the nephrovascular tree and apply the model to investigate the extent to which buffering of transient pressure perturbations is achieved. The model consists of coupled nephrovascular units; each unit represents an afferent arteriole, a glomerulus, and a nephron. The model includes superficial and juxtamedullary nephrons. Model simulations indicate effective buffering of pressure perturbations at low frequencies and slight amplification at high frequencies, in agreement with experimental observations of whole organ hemodynamics. Furthermore, the model predicts that internephron coupling increases the autoregulatory efficiency of the neprhovascular tree.

Support or Funding Information

NSF DBI‐1300426
Identification and Characterization of Gamma‐Synuclein as a PCBP1‐Interacting Protein in Various Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ko Jane , Hunkele Amanda , Sultan Hamidah , Ikalina Faith , Liu Alexander , Nahar‐Gohad Pranjal
Published: June 2021

PolyC binding protein1 (PCBP1), a transcriptional regulator of mu‐opioid receptor (MOR) gene, has multiple functions, which can be regulated by various protein‐protein interactions. Using PCBP1 as bait, a human brain cDNA library was screened via two‐hybrid system. One candidate clone was identified as g‐synuclein with glutamic acid (E) at the 110 position rather than valine (V). It was called g‐synuclein110E in here to differentiate from the 110V form. The interaction between PCBP1 and g‐synuclein110E was confirmed by in vivo validation and GST‐pull down assay. Confocal analysis showed g‐synuclein110E mainly expressed in the cytosol of neuronal NMB cells. Ectopic expression of g‐synuclein110E or 110V did not alter MOR mRNA level or hMOR promoter activity, suggesting no involvement of g‐synuclein in modulating hMOR expression. Co‐immunoprecipitation using anti‐PCBP1 antibody and lysates of NMB cells overexpressing g‐synuclein110E or 110V revealed a stronger band intensity of co‐immunoprecipitated 110E form than 110V form, indicating that the change of amino acid at the 110 position affected the interaction with PCPB1. Synuclein110E form was found in H292 (lung), HT29 (colon) and T47D (breast) cells, and co‐immunoprecipitation demonstrated that this physical interaction with PCPB1 also occurred in these cells. To further examine if different endogenous g‐synuclein forms were also present in various cancer cells, RT‐PCR using RNAs from different cell lines and a specific primer set for g‐synuclein were used. The full length of g‐synuclein PCR products were cloned into a cloning vector and then several clones were subjected to DNA sequencing. Different sequences were detected in certain cell lines. Overall, this study reports g‐synuclein110E as a new PCBP1‐interacting protein and provides some insight into its complex role.

Support or Funding Information

Confocal microscope was acquired via the NSF grant. This research was supported by NIH research grant DA016673 and BioResearch Fund from Seton Hall University.
Probing the Role of Threonine‐221 and Lysine‐397 in ADP‐Glucose Pyrophosphorylase from Deinococcus radiodurans
Authors: Reynaga Janice , Szczeblowski Gabrielle , Salas Celeste , Le‐Pham Ashley , Ong Leo , Meyer Christopher R
Published: June 2021

The knowledge gained from structure‐function studies of Adenosine Diphosphate Glucose Pyrophosphorylase (ADP‐glucose PPase), that serves as the rate‐limiting step in production of starch in plants and glycogen in bacteria, can inform protein engineering to generate a highly active enzyme. This enzyme is allosterically regulated by metabolites which serve as activators or inhibitors in accord with the organism's carbon metabolism pathways. An ADP‐glucose PPase form that was insensitive to feedback inhibition could enhance the biomass production of starch in plants, allowing for the efficient and economic use of starch as a renewable energy and food source. The enzyme of interest is derived from Deinococcus radiodurans (D. radiodurans), a microorganism that can withstand extreme growth conditions and ionizing radiation. Although studies on the enzyme from D. radiodurans are limited, the enzyme's characteristics of stability and altered regulation would be desirable to incorporate into an altered enzyme expressed in transgenic crops. The wild‐type D. radiodurans ADP‐glucose PPase is activated by fructose‐bisphosphate (FBP) and fructose‐6‐phosphate (F6P). The K397A and T221A enzymes were generated to further elucidate the role of amino acids in these regions on activity and regulation. Both enzymes were purified to near homogeneity by a procedure that included DEAE and phenyl sepharose chromatography. Preliminary studies indicate lower apparent binding affinity for activators and overall lower enzyme activity when alanine was substituted for lysine at position 397 (K397A), a position postulated to be near the allosteric site. These preliminary results demonstrate the importance of a positively charged amino acid at this position. The D. radiodurans enzyme harbors a threonine in a loop near the G1P binding site that is occupied by alanine in most ADP‐glucose PPases (amino acids 220–226: LTSMGIY). The T221A enzyme exhibited similar aparent affinity for the substrates ATP and G1P and co‐factor Mg but displayed a 50% reduction in activity in the absence of the activator FBP. However, the presence of the activator restores activity to the T221A enzyme, which is also more sensitive to other metabolites such as F6P, G6P, 3‐PGA, and sulfate. The T221 position appears to play a role in fold activation by metabolites as well as effector specificity. Complete kinetic and physical characerization of these enzymes is underway.

Support or Funding Information

Supported in part by NSF and NSF BIO MCB grant #0448676.
Probing the role of the N‐terminus in the ADP‐Glucose Pyrophosphorylase from Thermodesulfovibrio yellowstonii
Authors: Yik Eric , Pushkarev Edward , Campbell Dylan , Diep Casey , Duran Nicholas , Nguyen Jackson , Orry Andrew , Meyer Christopher R
Published: June 2021

Glucans serve as critical energy storage compounds in nearly all living organisms. Such renewable and biodegradable carbon sources are in demand now from industry as an eco‐friendly substitute for petroleum based products. ADP‐Glucose Pyrophosphorylase (ADPG PPase) is the enzyme that catalyzes the rate limiting step of glucan biosynthesis in plants and bacteria, respectively. The novel Thermodesulfovibrio yellowstonii (Td.y) ADPG PPase, from a thermophilic, sulfate‐reducing bacterium, has potential properties that could lead to engineering a very stable and highly active form which could increase the yield of starch. Further, sequence alignment data indicate that Td.y harbors varied amino acids in two conserved N‐terminal regions (glycine rich and RRAKPAV) that are known to be important for regulation and catalysis in other characterized ADPG PPases. The recombinant Wild‐type (WT) and variants (E15A, F23R, S25A) have been successfully purified by hydroxyapatite and size exclusion chromatography. In the case of E15A, preliminary data displayed similar velocity and similar apparent substrate affinity for ATP compared to WT, in the absence of effector molecules. However, in the presence of the activator PEP, E15A shows a ~7 fold increase in activity compared to 4 fold in WT. This suggests a role in regulation and binding of effector molecules. In the absence of effector molecules, preliminary data from F23R reveal a 4 fold decrease in activity and a ~2 fold decrease in apparent affinity for ATP compared to the WT. However, in the presence of effector molecules, ATP affinity was restored to WT values. In the presence of PEP and FBP, F23R displays a ~7 fold increase in activation compared to WT. The F23 position appears to play a role in structure or folding/allosteric regulation, which is also supported by molecular modeling. These results suggest a potential for altered binding of negatively charged metabolites due to increased positively charged residues in the postulated binding pocket. Kinetic data for the variant S25A reveals a Vmax ~3 fold higher than WT with a10‐fold higher apparent affinity for ATP compared to the WT as well as desensitization to effector molecules. This position in Td.y may play a role in setting the relative activity level that can be further attenuated by effectors. Along with kinetic analyses, initial crystallization trials are underway for variant S25A with initial crystals from different conditions diffracting to a resolution of ~3.96 Å. Results gathered from the WT and variants thus far confirm and extend the role of the two conserved regions for activity and regulation.

Support or Funding Information

Supported in part by NSF and NSF BIO MCB grant #0448676.
Determinants of Variation in Trunk Morphology in Anthropoid Primates
Authors: Ward Carol V , Middleton Emily R.
Published: June 2021

Bones of the torso are often used to infer postural and locomotor adaptation in fossil primates, based on inferred patterns of variation in overall torso form in extant primates and largely untested assumptions about how individual bones reflect the various forms. Observed variability of the bony pelvis, rib cage and vertebrae among taxa is most frequently hypothesized to reflect mobility and function of the upper and lower limbs. However, the degree of covariation among these torso elements and their relationships to factors other than limb function are poorly understood. To explore the determinants of variation in torso form, we quantified 3D torso shape from reconstructed CT scans of 57 anthropoid primates. We compared these data with linear and landmark data from the vertebrae, sterna, ribs, pelves, clavicles, scapulae and humeri of 256 anthropoids to determine patterns of relationships among torso skeletal elements. Finally, we conducted detailed analysis of integration patterns in the rib cages of 103 chimpanzees and 352 humans. Results reveal that the lower rib cage loosely follows pelvic form and is not as tightly integrated with upper rib cage shape as expected. Stiffness and control of the spine appears to be a much stronger determinant of pelvic form than previously recognized. Upper rib cage shape appears to relate to posture and perhaps other variables rather than locomotion or shoulder girdle morphology. There is also an unexpectedly weak relationship between the morphology of the upper rib cage and shoulder girdle. All together, there is more variation in overall torso shape and in its various components than previously recognized, which has implications for the reconstruction of locomotor behavior in fossil taxa and patterns of evolution in anthropoid primates.

Support or Funding Information

NSF BCS 0716244, Leakey Foundation, Wenner Gren Foundation
An Inquiry‐based Exercise in Medicinal Chemistry: synthesis of a molecular library and screening for potential anti‐malarial and anti‐inflammatory compounds
Authors: Hall David J , Martin Charles G , Welford Michael , Debbert Stefan
Published: June 2021

The development of new medicines holds particular fascination for chemistry, biochemistry, and biology students interested in a career in medicine or the life sciences. The identification and refinement of lead compounds to treat diseases requires researchers to be facile in a number of different disciplines including organic synthesis, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology. We have developed an interdisciplinary, inquiry‐based laboratory spanning both organic chemistry and biochemistry classes that acquaints students with research in medicinal chemistry. The first part of the exercise takes place in the second semester of organic chemistry, where pairs of students design and execute their own multi‐step synthesis of a novel compound with anti‐inflammatory and/or anti‐malarial potential. Later, in first semester biochemistry, many of the same students then test these synthesized compounds for cytotoxicity, inhibition of the enzyme nitric oxide synthase and inhibition of the transcription factor NF‐kB. Learning outcomes, measured by the CURE survey, suggest that students participating in both classes had higher gains than the average student.

Support or Funding Information

Monetary support for this project came from the Excellence in Science Fund of Lawrence University, NIH grant R15 AI065505‐01A1, and NSF grants 0521112 and CHE‐0923473, and the Sherman Fairchild Foundation.
A Redesigned Undergraduate Biochemistry Lab
Authors: Mills Jeffrey L. , Hart Kaitlin , Thurnherr Emily , O'Handley Suzanne F. , Bernstein Herbert J. , Craig Paul A.
Published: June 2021

The need for a significant improvement in undergraduate STEM education has been broadly recognized. The primary purposes of this project are to (1) improve understanding of the process of training students to be effective scientists, (2) test the hypothesis that “undergraduate students can characterize proteins of unknown function as the central theme of their biochemistry teaching laboratory”, and (3) that actually doing hypothesis‐driven experimental science is a useful tool in training students to become an experimental scientist. We have incorporated authentic inquiry into an undergraduate biochemistry lab course. Students at RIT are combining computational (in silico) and wet lab (in vitro) techniques as they characterize proteins whose three‐dimensional structures are known but to which functional annotations have not been assigned. Following an initial pilot phase at RIT during the Fall 2015 semester, our curriculum will be implemented at five additional campuses (California Polytechnic, Hope, Oral Roberts, St. Mary's, and Ursinus). The feasibility of the proposed characterization protocols has already been successfully tested in an undergraduate research setting at RIT and Dowling College. Our students have used an internally developed program, ProMOL, to compare over 3000 PDB entries with “unknown function” against a library of known enzyme active site motif templates and have found 64 “good hits”. At the beginning of the semester, students selected one of these good hits and characterized it further with ProMOL and other well‐established in silico methods, such as DALI, Pfam, and BLAST. Following initial bioinformatics characterization, well‐established in vitro techniques for protein expression, purification, and validation of activity have been used. As this new curriculum is focused on research and discovery, it is reasonable to expect some of the students to produce novel results that will contribute to the field of structural biology, both as publications and as annotations to structural biology databases such as the Protein Data Bank.

Support or Funding Information

This project is supported by NSF IUSE 1503811.
Comparison of Selected Nutrients in Raw, Whole Egg from USDA Data Releases (1976 – 2010)
Authors: Somanchi Meena , Exler Jacob , Pehrsson Pamela Ruth
Published: June 2021

Background

Eggs are an important component of the US diet. The USDA released nutrient data for raw, whole eggs based on compilations in 1976, 1988–89, 2000–01 and 2010.

Methods

The 1976 compilation was primarily from literature data, the 1988–89 samples were from samples provided by egg producers nationwide, and the 2000–01 and 2010 samples were part of the Nutrient Data Laboratory (NDL) National Food and Nutrient Analysis Program (NFNAP).Except for the 1976 literature compilation, samples from the other years were analyzed by commercial and university laboratories approved by NDL for nutrient analysis of food samples.

Results

There were only minor changes in total fat and protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus and sodium over this time period. There was a 22% decrease in cholesterol from 1976 to 1988–89, no significant change from 1988–89 to 2000–01. The mean cholesterol content decreased 51 mg/100 g (12%; p < 0.0001), from 423 mg/100 g in 2000–2001 to 372 (range 344–405) in 2010. Over the same period, average Vitamin D3 increased by 60%, to 2.05 mg [80 IU]/100 g (range 0.97–12.1). Samples from 2010 contained 0.65 mg 25‐OH‐D3/100 g (range 0.43–1.32).There was a 43% decrease in vitamin B12 from 1976 to 2010.

Conclusion

Recommendations on egg intake may allow for more eggs in the diet resulting in increase in egg consumption. USDA is planning on a future NFNAP sampling to monitor egg nutrients with a special interest in cholesterol, vitamin D3 and vitamin B12.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Partial support was received from the National Institutes of Health, agreement #Y1CN5010, and from the Egg Nutrition Center
Characterizing Early Adolescent Food Waste using the Mobile Food Record
Authors: Banna Jinan C , Panizza Chloe , Boushey Carol , Delp Edward , Lim Eunjung
Published: June 2021

Background

The proportion of food that is plated, uneaten and thrown into the trash is known to be high in the school environment. To date, studies have not investigated the proportion of food waste in youth over 24‐hr periods in the U.S. The mobile food record (mFR) captures before and after images of eating occasions in real time and holds promise for evaluating food waste in diverse settings.

Purpose

To assess the amount and type of food wasted in a multiethnic sample of early adolescent girls 9 to 13 yr residing in Oahu, Hawaii using the mFR.

Methods

Girls (n=72) used the mFR for 3 days. A trained analyst reviewed all images with each participant. The amount of food consumed and left on the plate were estimated. Leftover food was further classified as thrown into the trash, saved to eat later, consumed by another person, eaten by a pet or other. Data were entered into the RapidCalc nutrition database to quantify waste by food groups.

Results

Mean age was 10.8 and mean BMI z score was 0.04 (+/− 1.17). Girls identified as Asian (55.6%), non‐Hispanic white (36.1%) or other race (8.3%). All of participants’ mothers had a minimum of a 4‐yr college degree. The proportions of food plated and left uneaten were 12.1 % for vegetables, 10.6% for fruit, 10.2% for grains, 11.1% for meat/fish/poultry and 11.4% for dairy. The proportions of uneaten food thrown into the trash were 7.4% for vegetables, 7.8% for fruit, 6.1% for grains, 6.3% for meat/fish/poultry and 6.3% for dairy.

Conclusions

Food waste over 3 days was considerably lower than food waste previously reported over the school lunch period alone. Food waste was nearly equivalent across food groups. This finding is in contrast to previous studies in the school setting indicating that waste of fruit and vegetables is significantly higher than other food groups. Studies in real time using technology over full days may better quantify waste among adolescents.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Hatch project, HAW02026‐H, Accession no. 1000090. Also supported by NIH grant U54MD007584.
Impact of Military Dining Facility Serving Modifications on the Nutritional Intake of Special Operations Personnel
Authors: Bukhari Asma S , Crombie Aaron P , McGraw Susan M , Champagne Catherine M , Ray Allen , Montain Scott J , Young Andrew J
Published: June 2021

Military dining facilities (DFAC) aim to provide a nutrient dense diet that meets all nutritional needs of Warfighter customers, but meeting the nutritional needs of Special Operations Forces (SOF) personnel with high dietary energy and protein requirements can be challenging. The purpose of this study was to assess if an SOF garrison DFAC using tailored menu modification and employing customized nutrition labeling would provide adequate energy and protein while improving the nutrient density of food consumed by personnel enrolled in the small unit tactics iteration of the rigorous Special Forces Qualification Course. Menu modifications included increased availability of fruits, vegetables, fish, and healthy fats. The labeling strategy was focused on identifying performance‐facilitating versus performance‐limiting foods to influence diner choice in an ad libitum dining environment. We evaluated three independent but consecutive classes, at the same point during the course. Group one served as baseline (N=90), and groups two (N=112) and three (N=120) served as follow‐up to menu modification, and menu modification plus labeling interventions, respectively. Nutrient intake was estimated using digital photography of all participant trays before and after meals on two consecutive days of meals, and comparisons to reference standards, and nutrient density of foods consumed was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI). Compared to baseline, total HEI score increased (62.7±8.5 vs 52.6±9.2, p<0.01) and HEI across all domains increased except dairy (decreased) and vegetables (unchanged). Intakes of beta carotene and of high omega‐3 seafood increased while saturated fat intakes decreased (50±14 vs 69±22g·day−1, p<0.01). Total dietary energy intake decreased (4029±894 vs 4869±1099kcal·day−1, p<0.01), but was within guidelines for this population (125% of Military Dietary Reference Intakes), protein intakes were maintained at 2.0g·kg−1·day−1, sufficient for offsetting lean mass losses associated with periods of energy deficit. The decrease in dietary energy may be due to SOF personnel consuming less total fat (167 vs 205g·day−1, p<0.01), and carbohydrates (481 vs 581g·day−1, p<0.01). The observations indicate that modifications to the menu served to SOF personnel and employing customized nutrition labeling in the food service area can successfully increase the nutrient density and maintain adequate protein in the diets consumed by Warfighters dining ad libitum. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect official policy of the Departments of the Army, Defense, or the U.S. Government.

Support or Funding Information

The study was funded by the US Army.
Consumption of Cultural and American‐style foods among Young Women of Cambodian Heritage
Authors: Nelson‐Peterman Jerusha L. , Sibeko Lindiwe , Cordeiro Lorraine S.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Refugees have elevated chronic disease risk, which may be partially due to dietary changes over time with residence in the U.S. The dietary practices and health outcomes of children of refugees are not well studied. This study provides information that can guide practitioners and programs in promoting good long‐term health in refugee families.

Methods

A cross‐sectional convenience sample of young women ages 15–35 YO of Cambodian heritage (primarily children of refugees) was conducted in Lowell, MA (n=107). Components of the survey that are relevant to this analysis were dietary practices and demographics. Fast food, vegetable, beverage, and grain consumption were measured through a qualitative, culture‐specific food frequency questionnaire. In analyses, special consideration was given to examining cultural food vs. American‐style food consumption within these categories. Descriptive statistics were calculated for dietary practices. Chi‐square analyses were used to assess relationship between food consumption and demographics for categorical variables and t‐tests were used to assess differences in mean for continuous variables.

Results

Over 60% of participants reported eating vegetables at least daily, and 67% reported eating fresh vegetables and/or fresh Cambodian herbs daily. A majority (62%) ate meals from Cambodian‐style quick stores (31%) or fast food restaurants at least once per week (31%). White rice was consumed at least daily by 71% of participants, while brown rice was consumed at least daily by 2%. More than 40% reported eating whole wheat bread at least weekly, with 31% consuming white bread at least weekly. Half (50%) consumed whole wheat bread, oatmeal, or brown rice at least weekly. Nearly half (47%) reported drinking some type of sugar sweetened beverage at least 2x/week. Women who had children at home were more likely to report eating vegetables daily (P=0.04), vegetables and herbs daily (P=0.02), and American‐style fast food weekly (P=0.01) than those without children. More acculturated respondents were less likely to eat vegetables and herbs daily than less acculturated respondents (P=0.05).

Conclusion

Young women of Cambodian heritage provide us with a unique model for examining long‐term dietary practices of and determining strategies for interventions with children of refugees. Children of refugees must navigate the U.S. food environment, with strong influences from their heritage. Programs and practitioners seeking to promote long‐term health of refugees should focus on both healthful traditional foods and American foods and beverages, and may have enhanced success by targeting women with young children through a participatory approach that respects culture‐centric programming and foodways.

Support or Funding Information

University of Massachusetts Amherst Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment and U.S. Department of Agriculture
Diet Quality is Lower and Energy Intake Greater on Weekends than Weekdays: A One‐Year Longitudinal Study of Midlife Women
Authors: Jahns Lisa , Johnson LuAnn K , Raatz Susan K , Scheett Angela J , Stote Kim
Published: June 2021

Objective

To test differences in dietary intake by individual day and on weekends (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) compared to weekdays using energy and macronutrient intake, food groupings and Healthy Eating Index‐2010 diet quality scores.

Methods

Longitudinal design; 52 women ages 40–60 y completed online diet recalls approximately every 10 days for one year using the Automated Self‐administered 24‐hour Recall system. Energy (kcal), macronutrient (%en) and food group portions were derived. Healthy Eating Index‐2010 (HEI‐2010) total and component scores were calculated. Differences were tested by mixed model analysis of variance.

Results

Women completed a total of 1,866 diet recalls. Reported energy intake was greater on weekends than on weekdays (1990 ± 62 kcal vs 1832 ± 53 kcal; P<0.001). Reported %en from protein and carbohydrate was lower and %en from alcohol greater on weekends. There was no difference in the % energy from fat (34.3 ± 0.7 vs 33.4 ± 0.6, respectively; P = 0.07). On weekends, women reported consuming more alcohol, added sugar, fats and oils, eggs, potatoes, meats, and refined grains and less yogurt, whole fruits, orange vegetables, and whole grains than on weekdays. The total HEI‐2010 score was lower on weekends than weekdays (58.5 ± 1.5 vs 62.0 ± 1.4; P <0.001). Component scores were lower for Whole Fruits (P = 0.003), Greens and Beans (P = 0.017), Whole Grains (P = 0.002), and Dairy (P = 0.003). Energy intake was greatest on Saturday (2061 ± 78 kcal) and lowest on Tuesday (1756 ± 52 kcal). The %en from carbohydrate was greatest on weekdays and lowest on Friday. The %en from protein was lowest on Saturday. The %en consumed as alcohol was significantly greater on Friday and Saturday than all other days of the week.

Conclusions

In this population, weekend eating was associated with lower diet quality scores and different dietary patterns than weekdays. Maintaining weekday intakes of yogurt, whole fruits, orange vegetables and whole grains would be beneficial. Avoiding weekend overindulgence in alcohol, added sugars, and fats may help individuals maintain a healthy weight while consuming a variety of nutrient‐rich foods.

Support or Funding Information

USDA‐ARS 3062‐51000‐051‐00D.