bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐adhesive properties of culinary and medicinal plants against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in ex vivo porcine skin model
Authors: Lester Christen , Huerta Veronica , Van Hal Michelle , Crixell Sylvia , Vattem Dhiraj A
Published: June 2021

Adhesion and survival of pathogens on skin can lead to serious infection. This is a particularly important in environments with high risk for cross‐infection. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are the most common pathogenic bacteria responsible for infections transmitted from skin, especially since antibiotic resistant strains of these bacteria are becoming more prevalent. Non‐bactericidal compounds with anti‐adhesive activity can serve as an alternative to antibiotics and limit antibiotic resistance. Our objective was to screen 31 culinary and medicinal plants (CMP) used in traditional medicine for their anti‐adhesive properties against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa in an ex‐vivo porcine skin model. The low molecular weight fraction (LMWF) and high molecular weight fraction (HMWF) were isolated from CMP using standard protocols. The anti‐adhesive activity was tested on freshly excised porcine ear skin obtained from pigs slaughtered at a local abattoir. 4 cm2 of skin inoculated by spreading with 50 μl of 106cfu/ml of either S. aureus or P. aeruginosa were incubated in the presence and absence of LMWF and HMWF for 1 h and washed. Adherent bacteria were isolated in a stomacher and bacterial count was determined by plate count method. Our results indicate that in general HMWF were more effective in reducing the adhesion of S. aureus or P.aeruginosa. The HMWF from 11 samples proved to be effective against S. aureus, their anti‐adhesive activity ranged between 11‐46%. HMWF from 12 samples were effective against P. aeruginosa and their anti‐adhesive activity ranged between 6‐51%. Several CMP in our study had anti‐adhesive effects; the HMWF from these plants could be used as alternative therapy for preventing S. aureus and P.aeruginosa infections.
Ethanol extracts of Prunella. Vulgaris inhibit PGE2 and nitric oxide production in mouse macrophage cells
Authors: Huang Nan , Hauck Cathy , Yum Man‐Yu , Rizshsky Ludmila , Murphy Patricia , Dixon Philip , Nikolau Basil , Birt Diane F.
Published: June 2021

Twelve accessions of P. Vulgaris were extracted in water and/or ethanol (EtOH). All extracts were screened for anti‐inflammatory properties in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activated RAW264.7 mouse macrophage cells. Significant reduction in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) (p<0.05, 25%‐50% inhibition compared to control) was noted when EtOH extracts were applied at 30μg/ml or 15μg/ml, for some extracts, and when applying extracts and LPS to cells at the same or different times. However, water extracts showed no significant effect at =50μg/ml. Nitric oxide (NO) production was also measured in this system, and all four EtOH extracts and one of the water extracts had significant inhibitory activity at 30μg/ml. Semi‐preparative reversed phase (HPLC) was employed to fractionate an EtOH extract from accession Ames 27664. Fraction 3 exhibited mild inhibition (p<0.05) on both LPS‐induced PGE2 (30%) and NO production (13%). Rosmarinic acid (RA) and ursolic acid (UA) concentrations in samples have been analyzed with HPLC and pure RA and UA content simulation suggested that they may account for part of the total PGE2 inhibitory activity. These results together showed that P. Vulgaris EtOH extracts and fractions had anti‐inflammatory activity in mouse macrophage model. Chemical profiling of compounds are ongoing and further dose‐response relationships are yet to be determined. FUNDING: 9 P50 AT004155‐06 NCCAM/ODS from NIH
Silymarin Protects Against Chemical Induction of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Liver Cells
Authors: Stover Jessica , Dickey Angela , Cox Rebecca , Wei Yuren , Wang Dong , Pagliassotti Michael
Published: June 2021

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) are present in the liver of obese humans and may be involved in disease progression in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Silymarin (Sil) is the collective name for an extract from the milk thistle, Silybum marianum. Sil provides protection against such liver insults as carbon tetrachloride‐induced lipid peroxidation and lipid‐induced cell death. The present study was designed to investigate whether Sil influenced ER stress and UPR activation in response to chemical agents that promote the accumulation of unfolded proteins, thapsigargin (Th) and tunicamycin (Tu). H4IIE liver cells (n=7) were incubated in a control media (Con) or Con that contained either Th or Tu in the absence or presence of 100 µM Sil. In the absence of Sil, Th and Tu increased several biochemical markers of ER stress and UPR activation (7‐57 fold increase vs Con). The presence of Sil reduced Th‐ and Tu‐induced upregulation of these biochemical markers of ER stress and UPR activation by 43‐88%. The ability of Silymarin to reduce chemical‐induction of ER stress suggests that Silymarin may have therapeutic value in disease states characterized by ER stress, such as obesity and NAFLD.
Anti‐obesity and anti‐atherogenesis effect of Chungkookjang supplementation in overweight/obese Korean subjects: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Back Hyangim , Kim Sooran , Yang Jiae , Kim Mingul , Chae Soowan , Cha Youn‐Soo
Published: June 2021

To investigated the effects of Chungkookjang (CKJ) supplementation on anti‐obesity and anti‐atherogenesis in overweight/obese subjects. This study was a 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial followed by a 3 week screening period. Overweight/obese subjects [both BMI = 23 kg/m2 and WHR = 0.90(men), WHR = 0.85(women)] who were not diagnosed with diseases were included in this study and sixty subjects (38.68 ± 1.47 years, 72.2 ± 1.47 kg) and were randomly divided to a placebo (n=30) or a supplement group (n=30, CKJ 26g/day). We measured anthropometric parameters, abdominal fat distribution by computerized tomography and blood components before and after the 12 week intervention period. Fifty‐five subjects (29 CKJ group, 26 Placebo group) finished the study. After the 12 weeks of supplementation, subjects in the CKJ supplemented group showed a significant improvement in lean body mass (p<0.035) and Apo B(p<0.027) compared with placebo group. Visceral fat areas (p<0.013) by CT scans and fructosamine (p<0.02) concentrations were significantly reduced in the CKJ group after the 12 weeks, but there was no significant differences between placebo and CKJ group. The results suggested CKJ supplementation that potential anti‐obesity and anti‐atherogenesis benefits might be more pronounced when combined with lifestyle modification.
The branched chain fatty acid iso‐14:0 is metabolized by Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Ran‐Ressler Rinat Rivka , Glahn Raymond P , Brenna James Thomas
Published: June 2021

Background & Objective

We recently showed differences in the distribution of branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFA) in the vernix and meconium of healthy newborns: BCFA with < 16 carbons were detected in vernix but not in meconium. The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis that iso14:0 is taken up and metabolized by the enterocyte, using the colon carcinoma (Caco‐2) cell culture model.

Method

Caco‐2 cells were grown in 6 trans‐membrane well plates with 0.4µ inserts in appropriate media. Graded levels of iso14:0 (0.0‐0.5mM) were delivered to the cells as micelles in serum free media. After 4 hours incubation, apical and basolateral media were collected and cells were harvested to analyze the lipid classes and fatty acids.

Results

Micelle iso14:0 taken up by Caco‐2 cells and incorporated into phospholipids and monoglyceride lipid fractions. The BCFA iso12:0 and iso16:0 were detected in treated cells but not in controls. In the 0.5mM treatment, iso14:0 was found in the basolateral media.

Conclusion

Caco‐2 cells take up iso14:0 and incorporate it into to phospholipids. iso‐14:0 is also oxidized and elongated by the cells.

Support

NIH grant GM71534.
Glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) on plasma high‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) in Cuban Americans with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Authors: Huffman Fatma G , Cooper Vanessa Y , Zarini Gustavo G.
Published: June 2021

The relationship between GL and GI and plasma HDL‐C levels in 324 Cuban‐Americans with and without T2D were studied. Subjects were randomly recruited in Miami‐Dade and Broward Counties, FL. GL and GI values were calculated using a FFQ, physical activity was assessed using MAQ and HDL‐C levels were analyzed in fasting plasma. Analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlations and linear regressions, controlling for age, gender, T2D status, BMI, waist circumference (WC), physical activity, smoking, cholesterol medication(s), protein (g) and total fat (g).

There was a significant inverse correlation between both GL and GI with HDL‐C levels among subjects with T2D (r=‐.251, r= ‐.253, p<.001, respectively). After adjusting for all control variables, GL was a significant predictor of HDL‐C among Cuban Americans (B=‐.045, p=.003). There was a significant interaction between diabetes status and GI with HDL‐C (B=‐.998, p=.004). The linear regression showed that GI was a significant predictor of HDL‐C only among subjects with T2D (B= ‐.649, p=.004). Dietary GL is inversely correlated with HDL‐C independently of T2D status. GI is inversely correlated with HDL‐C levels only among T2D subjects which may explain their increased risk for CVD.
One year soy protein supplementation does not improve lipid profile in postmenopausal women
Authors: Campbell Sara Chelland , Khalil Dania A , Payton Mark E , Arjmandi Bahram H
Published: June 2021

Based on recent evidence, there is a need to reevaluate the claim that foods containing 25 g of soy protein per serving may reduce cholesterol. The purpose of the present study was to examine if one‐year consumption of soy protein‐containing foods exerts beneficial effects on blood lipids and lipoproteins in postmenopausal women. Eighty‐seven hypercholesterolemic eligible postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to consume soy or control foods daily for one year. Serum samples were analyzed for total cholesterol (TC), LDL, HDL, triglycerides (TG), Apo A and Apo B. Sixty‐two of the 87 women completed the one year study. TC and HDL showed a trend towards increasing from baseline after one year of soy protein supplementation (230.04±6.1 vs. 242.57±6.2 mg/dl P=0.09 and 56.87±2.5 vs. 60.33±2.5 mg/dl, respectively, P=0.08). There were no significant differences in LDL or TG, however a significant increase in Apo B (105.5±5.9 vs. 120.21±5.9 mg/dl P=0.002), and a significant decrease in Apo A (189.36±10 vs. 173.21±10 mg/dl, P=.009) was seen. Our data indicate that one year soy protein supplementation does not confer cardiovascular benefits in postmenopausal women in terms of improving lipid profile. These findings as well as those from other studies lend credence for reevaluating the soy protein health claim issued almost a decade ago.
Perception of eating nuts by WIC participants from rural North Carolina
Authors: Pawlak Roman , Colby Sarah , Herring Julia
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess WIC participants' knowledge, attitudes, perceived barriers and perceived benefits associated with eating nuts.

Methods

A survey was administered to 124 WIC participants. Participants were on average 28 years old and almost exclusively (96%) female. Thirty‐seven percent of the respondents were African American, 51.6% Caucasian, and 9.6% other.

Results

Respondents' had generally low knowledge (average 20% out of 100%) of the health benefits of nuts. Only about one forth of participants were aware that nuts may help reduce diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk. However, 78% correctly identified nuts as a good source of omega‐3 fatty acids. More than one third believed that eating nuts will cause weight gain. The statement "I would eat nuts on most days of a week if my doctor recommended me to do so" received the strongest agreement score (2.11), whereas the statement "I would eat nuts on most days of the week if they were lower in calories" received the strongest disagreement mean score (3.74). Other factors identified as influencing intake included affordability, and seeking nutrient and fiber.

Conclusion

WIC participants' knowledge of the health effects of nuts is low highlighting an opportunity to educate on the benefits of nut consumption.
Worksite wellness health benefits are sustained after one year
Authors: Allen Jorie C , Tagliaferro Anthony R , Janson‐Sand Colette H , Ronan Anne M
Published: June 2021

Results of our earlier study suggested that worksite health interventions can identify and modify risk factors for type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular disease. After screening and monthly lifestyle education, BMI, Total Cholesterol, and Triglycerides were improved from Baseline in the Experimental (E) group (p = 0.05, p = 0.003, p= 0.013 respectively) with no improved measures in the Control (C) group. In addition, mean MetS risk factors increased in C (p = 0.013) and decreased in E (p= 0.04). Because it is not clear if positive effects are sustained, the present study was a 1 yr follow‐up. Subjects (23 C, 20 E) were screened at 12 and 24 months. All subjects were given test results and sent quarterly health newsletters. Lifestyle classes for the E group were held quarterly. Fasting glucose and blood lipids were measured by fingerstick. Blood pressure, height, weight, body composition and waist circumference were measured by standard protocol. No statistical differences in any measure from 12 months were seen at 24 months in E or C groups. In summary, risk factors in the C group remained unchanged and the improvement in risk factors in the E group was sustained in the follow‐up year. Taken together, these findings suggest that worksite health interventions are effective in reducing health risks and remain so over time.

Sponsored by UNH Office for Research & Outreach Scholarship and UNHCE.
Dramatic modification of liver carbohydrate metabolic pathways and lipogenesis during adaptation to a high protein diet in rat
Authors: Stepien Magdalena , Gaudichon Claire , Tomé Daniel , Fromentin Gilles , Azzout‐Marniche Dalila
Published: June 2021

Amino acids participate both to proteogenic and non proteogenic metabolism, act as energy substrates and play a signaling role in protein and energy pathways. We aimed to study the time course adaptation to HP diet of gene expression of key enzymes involved in energy metabolism (glycogenesis: GS; gluconeogenesis: PEPCK, G6PC1; glycolysis: GK, L‐PK; lipogenesis: FAS, ACC; lipolysis: CPT1, ACOX1). 40 Wistar rats were fed a normal (NP) or a high protein diet for 1, 3, 6 or 15 d. They were euthanized 2 h after a 4 g meal. Blood, liver, muscles, kidney and adipose tissues were collected. Plasma insulin and glucagon were measured. Gene expression was determined by real time PCR. The ratio insulin to glucagon was lowered. There was only minor change of the gene expression profiles in adipose tissues, muscles and kidney. In the liver, HP diet led to an increase of PEPCK but not G6PC1 expression from the 6th day of adaptation, GS expression increased with time to reach the value observed in NP rats, glycolysis and lipogenesis enzymes were down‐regulated, and CPT1 and ACOX1 were not altered. This study evidences a 6 day adaptation of carbohydrate metabolism to HP diet, leading to a stimulation of neoglycogenonesis as well as a down‐regulation of lipogenesis that may participate in lowering adiposity.
Maternal Protein Restriction Alters Histone Modifications and Glucose Transporter 4 (GLUT4) Expression in Female Rat Skeletal Muscle during Postnatal Development
Authors: Zheng Shasha , Unander Michelle , Pan Yuanxiang
Published: June 2021

Maternal nutrition during pregnancy is an important intrauterine environmental factor associated with potential disease risk in later life. In this study, we investigated how epigenetic regulation of the muscle glucose transporter GLUT4 is modified in the offspring. Timed‐pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were fed with one of two isocaloric diets, control (18% casein) or low protein diet (9% casein) during gestation period. At birth, all mothers received a standardized meal ad libitum. The skeletal muscle was removed when pups were 38 days old. GLUT4 mRNA expression in female rat skeletal muscle was increased significantly by maternal low protein diet. An increase of expression in genes associated with glucose metabolism, such as CEBPβ and Nur77, was observed in female pups whose mothers were fed with low protein diet. Employing ChIP, we observed that modifications of histone acetylation and methylation at GLUT4 promoter region in female pup muscle were linked with the alteration in GLUT4 expression. However, the increased GLUT4 expression was not mediated by amino acid response pathway or DNA demethylation. These results suggest that a maternal diet limited in protein epigenetically alters fetal chromatin via covalent modifications of histones and subsequently alters gene‐specific expression.
Gene‐diet interactions and serum α‐tocopherol concentrations
Authors: Garofalo Francesca , Cahill Leah , El‐Sohemy Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Inter‐individual differences in serum α‐tocopherol (α‐toc) concentrations may be due, in part, to genetic variations in α‐toc metabolism. The objective was to determine whether common polymorphisms in the α‐tocopherol transfer protein (α‐TTP) (rs6994076, T>A) and tocopherol associated protein (TAP) (rs2072157, C>T) genes influence serum α‐toc concentrations or modify the association between dietary and serum α‐toc. Subjects (n=449) between the ages of 20 and 29 years completed a food frequency questionnaire and provided a fasting blood sample for genotyping and measuring serum α‐toc by HPLC. Differences in serum α‐toc were observed between α‐TTP genotypes (p=0.03), but only when supplement users were excluded. No differences in serum α‐toc were observed between TAP genotypes. No significant interactions were observed between dietary α‐toc and either α‐TTP or TAP genotype on serum α‐toc, regardless of supplement use. When supplement users were included, the correlation co‐efficient (P‐value) between dietary and serum α‐toc for the TAP C/C, C/T and T/T genotypes was 0.24 (0.002), 0.20 (0.006) and 0.45 (0.002), respectively. When supplement users were excluded, the corresponding correlations were 0.05 (0.57), 0.12 (0.18) and 0.53 (0.003). These findings suggest that α‐TTP may influence fasting serum α‐toc concentrations and TAP may modify the strength of the association between diet and serum α‐toc.

Grant Funding Source

Advanced Foods and Material Network
Dietary Vitamin A Supplementation Decreases Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases in Mice
Authors: Griffin Jennifer , Park Eun Young , Lane Michelle A
Published: June 2021

Previously, we showed that retinol inhibited all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA)‐resistant human colon cancer cell invasion via a retinoic acid receptor‐independent mechanism in vitro. The objective of the current study was to determine if dietary retinol inhibited the metastasis of ATRA‐resistant colon cancer cells in a nude mouse xenograft model. Ninety female nude mice (BALB/cAnNCr‐nu/nu) aged 6 to 8 weeks old were intrasplenically injected with 2 x 106 wild type HCT‐116 ATRA‐resistant human colon cancer cells. Purified AIN‐76 rodent diet was consumed pre‐injection. Immediately following injection the mice were randomly assigned to diets containing 2,400 (control), 12,000, 25,000, 50,000, 100,000 or 200,000 IU vitamin A/kg diet as retinyl palmitate. These diets provided 1, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80X the daily vitamin A requirement of mice. The mice consumed these diets for five weeks prior to sacrifice. Livers and spleens were excised at the time of sacrifice and examined for the presence of primary tumors (spleen) or metastases (liver). Consumption of diets containing 50,000, 100,000, or 200,000 IU vitamin A/kg diet resulted in a decrease in tumor incidence to 72.6%, 72.6%, and 45.2%, respectively, of control. Thus, supplemental dietary vitamin A may be an effective chemotherapeutic agent to decrease the hepatic metastasis of colon cancer.

Grant Funding Source

NIH grant # 5 R21 CA120414‐02 to M.L.
Calcium absorption, retention and bone calcium content are enhanced by different fibers in male Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Martin Berdine R , Lachcik Pam , Story Jon , Weaver Connie
Published: June 2021

Resistant starches and other fibers may be good candidates as enhancers of calcium absorption. This study investigated the effect of 8 fibers on calcium absorption and retention in rats fed a nutritionally adequate diet. Four week old male Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to a diet containing cellulose (control) or 1 of 8 different fibers: PROMITOR(tm) resistant starch 60 (RS60), resistant starch 75(RS75), soluble fiber dextrin(SFD), pullulan, PROMITOR(tm) soluble corn fiber(SCF), Sta‐Lite® poly‐dextrose(PDX), inulin, or inulin/FOS blend. At the end of a 12 week feeding period rats received DXA scans to measure bone density. Mineral balance was measured in metabolic cages for 3 days. At the end of the experiment rats received a test meal containing approximately one‐fourth of their daily intake labeled with 45Ca Cl2 . Calcium absorption was measured by femur uptake. Femurs, tibias, cecal and colon contents were harvested at the time of sacrifice. Bone mineral composition, density and cecal short chain fatty acid contents were analyzed. Femur calcium uptake was enhanced by inulin/FOS. Femur calcium concentration was significantly higher with RS60, RS75, inulin, SFD and PDX. All fibers tested formed greater quantities of cecal short chain fatty acids. However, those significantly different from control included SFD, pullulan, SCF, PDX, inulin and inulin/FOS.

Sponsored by Tate and Lyle Health and Nutrition Sciences.
The Association of Food (or Food Group) Preferences and Food Intake Frequency during Infant to Toddlers in Kumi, Korea
Authors: Kim Song‐Suk , Lee Seungmin , Khil Jinmo
Published: June 2021

The feeding practices of period from infant to toddlers are of fundamental importance for their growth and development. The present study examined the association between food (or food group) preferences and food intake frequency during infant to toddler years by SAS program. Also we investigated the relationship of baby's age and each food (or group) preferences in Gumi, Korea. One hundred mothers completed a questionnaire regarding their baby's food preferences, semi food frequency questionnaire, weaning practices, general dietary behavior and their socio‐economic status during Kumi healthcare center visits. There were significantly high correlation coefficient between food intake and food group preferences in rice (r <0.0001), potatoes (r = 0.0004), beans (r = 0.0003), fishes (r < 0.0001), vegetables (r < 0.0001), sea weeds (r = 0.0034), nuts (r < 0.0001), snacks (r = 0.0009), seasonings (r < 0.0001) and party foods (r = 0.0002) by spearman procedure. However, meat, egg, milk and dairy products did not show any significant correlation coefficient between food intake and preferences. As baby is getting older, their preference to bread, hamburger, ham, sausage, egg, kim‐chi, yogurt, ice cream, nut, biscuit, snack, candy, soybean paste, mayonnaise, ketchup, fried rice, rice cake were significantly increased. Therefore it is important to educate proper eating habits as baby's food preference has been changed.
Knowledge of Family History of Coronary Heart Disease, Medical Insurance and Annual Visitations to Healthcare Professionals among individuals of African Ancestry
Authors: Davis Errol , Huffman Fatma
Published: June 2021

Objective

To investigate the differences in knowledge of family history of CHD (KFHCHD), medical insurance coverage (MIC) and annual visitations to a healthcare professional (HCP) in Foreign‐born Afro Caribbeans (FBAC: 31 males; 35 females) living in the US for less than 10 years, US‐born Afro Caribbean Americans (USBACA: 30 males; 32 females) and African Americans (AA: 30 males; 31 females) ages 18‐40 years in a cross‐sectional analysis. Socio‐demographic data were collected and analyzed.

Results

More FBAC than USBACA and AA participants (39.4% vs. 25.8% and 31.1%) had KFHCHD. More FBAC than USBAC and AA participants had MIC (71.2% vs. 69.4% and 67.2%) whereas, more FBAC and USBACA than AA participants (80.3% and 85.5% vs. 73.8%) reported visiting a HCP during the past year.

Conclusions

Our study showed that there are differences in KFHCHD, MIC and annual visitations to HCPs among individuals of African decent. Knowledge of CHD risk factors and MIC are important tools in changing behavior towards health. However, to affect lasting behavioral change, the dissemination of nutrition information should be culturally appropriate.
Validation of the Eating Stimulus Index in low‐income, postpartum women
Authors: Cahill Jodi M , Shah Bijal S , Lu Hongxing , Freeland‐Graves Jeanne H
Published: June 2021

Early postpartum is a critical period that may influence weight status later in life. The purpose of this study is to develop and validate the Eating Stimulus Index (ESI) to examine motivations to eat during early postpartum. Subjects (n=179) were triethnic, low‐income, and 1.5‐4 months postpartum. Test‐retest reliability was assessed in low‐income women (n=31) and discriminant validity was established in university students (n=125). Total and subscale scores were calculated and Pearson's correlation and linear regression were used to examine relationships to BMI kg/m2. Principal component analysis produced an 8‐factor structure that reflected environmental, biological, and psychological motivations to eat. The scale demonstrated good test‐retest reliability (ICC=0.83) and internal consistency reliability (a=0.54‐0.89). Students had significantly higher ESI scores than low‐income women (76.7±0.9 vs 73.9±0.8, P<0.05). Total scale scores were related to BMI in both mothers (P<0.05) and students (P< 0.05). Subscales of Convenience Eating (P<0.01), Emotional Eating (P<0.05), and Dietary Restraint (P<0.01) significantly predicted BMI in mothers and Social Acceptance (P<0.01) and Self‐Efficacy (P<0.01) were significant in students. Thus, the ESI is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used to assess motivations to eat during early postpartum. Supported by TX Coordinating Board, # UTA00‐377.
Fast Food Intake by Kuwaities
Authors: Waslien carol Irene , Zaghloul Sahar , Alsomaie Mona , Prakash P , AlHamad Nawal
Published: June 2021

High prevalence of obesity in Kuwaities has been attributed to increased intakes of Western fast‐ foods. Data from 6287 adults in the Kuwait National Nutrition Surveillance 2006‐2007 indicate higher intakes of fried potatoes (FP), a proxy for Western fast‐food intake, by young, urban governorates, better educated, and non‐smoking groups. Multiple regression analysis indicated that age and education were independent variables (Adjusted R2 = .095). FP intake was correlated with intake of fruit juice and total vegetables but negatively associated with whole fruit, raw vegetable and carrot intakes. The recognition of these assocaitions should enable better targeting of nutrition and health education programs for the nation.
Metabolic profiling reveals diverse effects of sulfur amino acid deficiency
Authors: Johnson Jennifer M. , Yu Tianwei , Strobel Fredrick H. , Ziegler Thomas R. , Jones Dean P.
Published: June 2021

Previous data using bioinformatics show the ability to predict sulfur amino acid (SAA) intake without directly measuring any SAA metabolites. The purpose of this study is to use metabolic profiling to determine the metabolites that significantly change with dietary SAA. 10 healthy subjects were fed a semi‐synthetic, chemically defined diet containing no SAA for 5 days and then the same diet including SAA for 5 more days. Plasma was collected after the meal on the first and last day of each study period and analyzed using a mass spectrometry metabolomics profiling method. The results reveal that 1% of the detected metabolic profile (2,570 features) varies significantly with SAA intake. As expected, methionine and cysteine increase significantly when SAA is in the diet. No significant changes in any other known SAA metabolites were observed; however, 3 unknown sulfur containing metabolites differed significantly with dietary SAA. 2 of these unknowns were significantly decreased with adequate dietary SAA, suggesting an uncharacterized metabolic pathway that is upregulated in times of SAA deficiency. 16 non‐sulfur containing metabolites were altered significantly by dietary SAA, showing the wide ranging effects SAA have on metabolism. This study demonstrates a use for metabolic profiling techniques to better understand the effects of SAA deficiency on metabolism.

Funding: NIH ES012870, DK066008, ES012929

Grant Funding Source

T32‐ES012870
Evidence for enhanced transsulphuration (TS) as a mechanism underlying lower hyperhomocysteinemia in patients undergoing home nocturnal hemodialysis (HNHD)
Authors: Martincevic Inez , Goldstein M , McFarlane P , House JD , Pencharz PB , Pierratos A , Darling PB
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) >12μmol/L, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is prevalent (>85%) in patients undergoing standard hemodialysis (SHD). The current study was conducted to determine if lower tHcy associated with longer, more frequent dialysis (HNHD) is a function of dialysate HCY losses and/or enhanced HCY metabolism through the TS pathway (cysteine (Cys) and sulphate production).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study including patients (n=33) on SHD (4 h, 3 days/wk), in‐centre nocturnal hemodialysis (INHD) (6‐8 h, 3 nights/wk) and HNHD (6‐8 h, 5‐7 nights/wk). Blood and dialysate were collected during a mid‐week dialysis session.

Conclusions

These data suggest that increased dialysate removal of Hcy alone does not explain lower plasma tHcy in HNHD. Rather, increased clearance of sulfate and cysteine may allow increased TS in patients on HNHD. Supported by Kidney Foundation of Canada
Accumulation of chromium and histological findings on Hybro chickens kidneys treated with Cr(VI) and vitamin C
Authors: Bajraktari Ismet Dervish , Gashi Agim Maliq , Halili Fetah Murtez , Sopa Ramadan , Bislimi Kemajl , Fetahu Shukri
Published: June 2021

It was investigated the effect of both the C vitamin and Cr (VI) on bioaccumulation of Cr in the hystological findings on Hybro chickens kidneys. The chickens were divided into 5 groups (I‐V), each with 10 individulas. The first, was controll group, whereas other groups were treated for 180 days orally with different concentration levels of Cr (VI) and C vitamin (10 mg dose/kg b.w). Preparation of tissues for pathology microscopy was carried out according to standard procedures, whereas staining was done with hematoxylin‐eosin. The concentration of Cr in kidneys was measured with atomic absorbtion spectroscopy (AAS) and UNICAM 929‐AA. spectrometer

The results of our investigation have shown the occurence of little hystopathological changes on glomerule, intersticiel section and on blood vessels: Hydropic expansion and epithels desquamination of proximal tubules, vacoulization of cytoplasm, dylatation of distal tubules, expansion of subcapsular area of some glomerules, and a source of extravasate erythrocites in subcapsular area. Our findigs show that there were not any protective function of C vitamin with the dosage we have applied. C vitamin combined with Cr (VI) has significantly increased the bio‐accumulation of Cr in noted kidneys (ppm., FW) compared with control group chickens and those treated with only Cr (VI).
RADON AND HEMOGRAM OF THE TWO SECONDARY SCHOOLS STUDENTS IN SUHAREKA – KOSOVA
Authors: Halili Fetah Murtez , Bajraktari Ismet Dervish , Gashi Agim Maliq , Bahtijari Meleq , Troni Naser , Bislimi Kemajl
Published: June 2021

The objective of this investigation is the relationship of the radon concentration in closed area (classrooms) in two secondary schools of Suhareka Municipality and eventual consequences of ionizing radiation in the hemogram of secondary school students (N=50) that attend in these schools.

The measurement of radon concentration was made with alpha stimulating method using portable apparatus PRM‐145 and the CR‐39 detector of trace, that was developed in the "Josef Stefan" Institute in Lublana. Radon concentration in air depended on the season and classroom floors in school buildings. In the air of classrooms that are located on the basement , radon (222Rn) concentration moved from 340 ‐ 410 Bq/m3, but in the classroom of other floors 30 ‐ 92 Bq/m3 . Hemogram was analyzed by automatic apparatus ABX micros 60 Haematology. Results of the investigation of school students of classrooms with high level of concentration of radon show the increased number of trombocytes and significant decrease in the number of leucocytes, erythrocytes, hemoglobine concentration and hematocrite value in comparison with school students that study in classrooms with low radon concentration. Differential analysis of leucocytes shows a significant increase of lymphocytes and decrease of granulocytes compared with control. This investigation also shows that number differences in peripheral blood cells are important biological indicators on the consequences of ionizing radiation.
Rosmarinic acid reduces multiple organ failure in thermal injury and liver ischemia‐reperfusion injury
Authors: Rocha João Pedro , Sepodes Bruno Miguel , Eduardo‐Figueira Maria , Bronze Rosário , Silva‐Lima Beatriz , Mota‐Filipe Helder
Published: June 2021

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound with strong antioxidant capacity that has been shown to inhibit the expression of NF‐¿B promoter‐related genes. RA effect on systemic inflammation was accessed using a rat model of thermal injury. A 30% third degree skin burn was induced by immersing the dorsal shaved skin of the anaesthetized rat in 99°C water for 10s. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: Control; Burn; RA+Burn: rats which received RA (25 mg/kg i.v.) 15 minutes prior to burn injury; RA Sham). Our results show that RA reduces the increase on the level of biochemical markers for liver and kidney injury when compared to the Burn group: AST (560±38 vs. 385±46 IU/L), ALT (114±12 vs. 75±10 IU/L), LDH (1775±264 vs. 977±176 IU/L) and Creatinine (1.80±0.26 vs. 1.20±0.1 mg/dL). RA effect on liver injury was then assessed using an ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) model in the rat, 45 minutes of ischemia to 3/4 of the liver followed by 2 hours of reperfusion. RA (25 mg/kg, i.v.) was administered 15 min prior to ischemia. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: (1) Sham; (2) I/R; (3) RA + I/R: rats which received RA (25 mg/kg i.v.) 15 minutes prior to liver I/R; (4) RA Sham. Our results show that RA reduced the increase on the level of biochemical markers for liver injury when compared to the I/R group: AST (1745±206 vs. 1178±95 IU/L), ALT (2148±189 vs. 1526±193 IU/L) and LDH (7715±722 vs. 5021±745 IU/L). Therefore, we propose that rosmarinic acid and similar phenolic compounds might be useful pharmacological tools in the therapy of these severe inflammatory conditions.
Insulin signaling activation protects dentate neurons from oxygen‐glucose deprivation in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures
Authors: sun xiaolu , Yao Hang , Wang Juan , Haddad Gabriel G
Published: June 2021

A link between diabetes and ischemia has been well accepted. However, the physiological and pathophysiological roles of insulin in the brain are not fully understood. In the present study, we used organotypic hippocampal slice cultures as an in vitro model to study the role of insulin signaling in cell survival/death in oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD)‐induced injury. We found that, as compared to the CA1‐3 regions, the dentate gyrus (DG) neuronal survival was more sensitive to inhibition of PI3K/AKt signaling under basal conditions. Dentate neuronal sensitivity to PI3K/Akt signaling activation was inversely related to their vulnerability to OGD‐induced injury. Insulin conferred neuroprotection to DG neurons via activation of PI3K/Akt signaling. In contrast, CA1 and CA3 neurons were less sensitive to PI3K/Akt signaling but more vulnerable to OGD. MAPK inhibitors reduced CA neuronal injury from OGD when PI3K signaling was inhibited. In addition, in the presence of insulin, CA1 neurons were partly protected from OGD by these MAPK inhibitors, and were also protected by NMDA receptor blocker CPP, suggesting that an activity‐dependent activation of MAPK signaling may contribute to CA1 neuronal vulnerability. CA2 sub‐region was distinctive in its response to glutamate, OGD, and insulin, compared to other CA sub‐regions. CA2 neurons were sensitive to the protective effects of insulin from OGD, but more resistant to those of glutamate. Our results suggest that PI3K and MAPK mediated survival/death signaling may play a role in sub‐regional vulnerability to cerebral ischemia. We speculate that activation of insulin signaling pathways contributes to neuronal repair under pathophysiological conditions such as diabetes and stroke.
Fucoidan regulates IFN‐γ–induced NO and iNOS production differently in C6 glioma cells and RAW264.7 cells: the involvement of JAK/STAT, p38 activation and TNF‐α production
Authors: Do Hang Thi Thu , Kang Nam Sung , Pyo Suhkneung , Lim Jung Dae , Lee Jae Cheol , Sohn Eun Hwa
Published: June 2021

It has been shown that glial cells and macrophages have many both similar and different characteristics including signalings responsible for production of NO. In the present study, we examined the effect of fucoidan on NO and iNOS production induced by TNF‐α and IFN‐γ, comparing between Raw264.7 and C6 cells. Our data shows that fucoidan affects only IFN‐γ‐induced iNOS but not TNF‐α‐induced iNOS in both cells. Elucidating mechanisms underlying effect of fucoidan on IFN‐γ signaling, we found that fucoidan inhibited IFN‐γ‐induced iNOS expression in C6 cells via inhibition of JAK/STAT and p38 activation. In contrast, in Raw264.7, fucoidan increased IFN‐γ‐induced iNOS via increase TNF‐α production which is negatively regulated by p38. We also found that the effect of fucoidan on Raw264.7 was not mediated by SR‐A1, a well‐known receptor of fucoidan, suggesting the involvement of other receptors. Our data, therefore, show the marked difference between glial cells and macrophages in response to fucoidan which should be considered in clinical using of fucoidan (This work was supported by grant No. RTI05‐01‐02 from the Regional Technology Innovation Program of the Ministry of Konwledge Economy(MKE)).
New roles for an ancient organelle: ciliary defects cause cystic kidney disease and blindness
Authors: Pazour Gregory
Published: June 2021

The discovery that the mutation in the Tg737orpk mouse model of polycystic kidney disease affected assembly of cilia in kidney tubules has fueled new interest in primary cilia. These organelles were first described in 1898 and over the next one hundred years, microscopists documented the presence of these organelles on nearly every cell type in vertebrate organisms. Prior to the work on the Tg737orpk mouse, the function of the primary cilium was controversial with many cell biologists believing them to be vestigial organelles with no function in the modern organism. The idea that primary cilia are vestigial has been soundly disproved as severe defects in primary cilia cause embryonic lethality and milder defects lead to a syndrome of phenotypes including cystic kidney disease, liver cysts and fibrosis, polydactyly, and defects of the mammary gland, heart, pancreas, brain and eye. It is now widely believed that these organelles are cellular antennae that monitor the extracellular environment and feed this information back to the cell to control many aspects of cell physiology including proliferation and differentiation. Recent evidence indicates that cilia are key players in hedgehog and Wnt signaling and so may integrate extracellular signals in the control of these and other signaling pathways.
Bisphosphonates and bone: understanding biological mechanisms using morphological techniques
Authors: Allen Matthew
Published: June 2021

Bisphosphonates (BPs) are the gold‐standard pharmaceutical treatment for a number of metabolic bone diseases. Over the past several years, our laboratory has been working to understand the effects of BPs on various aspects of skeletal biology. Through a series of studies, using various animal models, we have established several important treatment effects of BPs including 1) the time‐course of changes in microdamage accumulation that result from the bone remodeling suppression effects of BP; 2) the long‐term effects of BP treatment on bone biomechanical properties; 3) the effects of BP‐treatment on the non‐mineral component of bone matrix; 4) the site‐specific and BP‐specific effects of BP‐treatment on bone remodeling suppression; and 5) the role of BPs in a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). The goal of this talk will be to summarize these finding with an emphasis on the various morphological techniques used to help elucidate these tissue‐level mechanisms of BP treatment.
LPA and NRG‐1b synergistically promote proliferation and migration of wild‐type and neoplastic Schwann cells via an ERRFI1‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Brossier Nicole Marie , Byer Stephanie , Carroll Steven
Published: June 2021

In some cell types, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)‐induced proliferation and migration requires transactivation of the EGF receptor (erbB1). This led us to hypothesize that LPA stimulates the proliferation and migration of normal and neoplastic Schwann cells and does so via a mechanism involving the EGFR‐related NRG‐1 receptors erbB2, 3 and/or 4. We have found that LPA stimulates the proliferation and migration of wild‐type Schwann cells and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) cells in a concentration‐dependent manner. Co‐stimulation of Schwann cells with NRG‐1β and LPA increases mitogenesis to a greater extent than the combined effects of each factor alone, indicating that LPA and NRG‐1β synergistically enhance proliferation of these glia. Further, LPA‐induced Schwann cell migration is ablated by treatment with the erbB kinase inhibitor PD168393 or GM6001, a MMP inhibitor which blocks the release of soluble NRG‐1. Microarray analyses also show that LPA represses Schwann cell expression of the pan‐erbB inhibitor Erffi1, thereby potentially enhancing erbB action. These findings suggest that LPA stimulates Schwann cell proliferation and migration synergistically with NRG‐1β and does so via a previously unknown mechanism that involves modulation of Erffi1 expression. Funded by R01 NS048353 and CA122804.
Neuregulin‐1β and neuregulin‐1α differentially affect the migration and invasion of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor cells
Authors: Clodfelder‐Miller Buffie J , Eckert Jenell M , Byer Stephanie J , Carroll Steven L
Published: June 2021

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs), the most common malignancy associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), aggressively invade adjacent nerve and soft tissue. MPNSTs express neuregulin‐1 (NRG‐1) β, which promotes Schwann cell migration during development, and NRG‐1α, whose effects on Schwann cells are unknown. We hypothesized that NRG‐1β and/or NRG‐1α promote MPNST invasion. We found that NRG‐1β promoted MPNST migration in a substrate‐specific manner. The NRG‐1 receptors erbB4 and erbB3 were present in MPNSTs, colocalized with focal adhesion kinase and the laminin receptor β1‐integrin and coimmunoprecipitated with β1‐integrin. NRG‐1β stimulated human and murine MPNST cell migration in a concentration‐dependent manner, acting as a chemotactic factor. Both baseline and NRG‐1β induced migration and invasion were erbB‐dependent and required the action of MEK 1/2, SAPK/JNK, PI3K, Src kinases and ROCK‐I/II. In contrast, NRG‐1α had no effect on the migration of some lines and inhibited the migration of others. While NRG‐1β activated Erk 1/2, SAPK/JNK, Akt and Src family kinases, NRG‐1α did not activate Akt and activated other kinases in a kinetically distinct manner. These findings suggest that NRG‐1β enhances MPNST migration and that NRG‐1β and NRG‐1α differentially modulate this process. Supported by NIH grant NS048353, CA122804 and NIH Blueprint grant NS57098.
Intraventricular Meningioma and Post surgical Cystic Encephalomalacia : a Case Report
Authors: Kurukumbi Mohankumar , Nasim Mansoor , Hussain Dulara , Weir Roger , Jayam‐Trouth Annapurni
Published: June 2021

Primary intraventricular meningiomas are notably rare with an incidence of 0.5 to 3% among all intracranial meningiomas. We present an interesting case of intraventricular meningioma.

43 year African‐American female with a worsening headache for 2 months, on MR Imaging showed enhancing mass in the right posterior horn and atrium of the right lateral ventricle. Post surgical specimen showed the presence of meningoepithelial cells in whorly pattern, psammoma bodies, positive histochemistry for S‐ 100 and progesterone receptors. Low grade meningioma was diagnosed. Post surgical MR Imaging showed compensatory dilatation of the right temporal horn cystic encephalomalacia and right posterior horn porencephaly. She remained asymptomatic at six months and one year follow up visits. CT imaging with contrast showed no recurrence of the tumor.

Histologically and radiologically, intraventricular meningiomas behave similar to the parenchymal meningioma. Cystic encephalomalacia and porencephaly that are noted in our case are very rare post surgical complications. It is noteworthy to report this case because of the interesting features observed as well as the rarity of occurrence.
Blockade of LTB4 binding to its receptor, BLT‐2, inhibits Hodgkin and Reed‐Sternberg (HRS) cell growth in‐vitro
Authors: Lim Yaw‐Chyn , Lim Joe Thuan , Tan Luke , Al‐Salam Suhail , Chong Siew Meng
Published: June 2021

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (cHL) is characterized by the minority presence of HRS cells amongst a heavy infiltrate of inflammatory cells. HRS cells produce a variety of cytokines and chemokines that modulate the inflammatory background.

Membrane phospholipids are metabolized to proinflammatory mediators via the cyclooxygenase (COX) or lipoxygenase (LOX) pathways. Many of these eicosanoids act as autocrine and paracrine regulators of physiological cell functions and of tumor cell growth and survival. While COX2 expression has been associated with the pathogenesis of cHL, little is known about the expression of 5‐LOX or its product, LTB4, in HRS cells.

This study examines 5‐LOX and LTB4 expression in cHL and their roles in HRS cell survival. Patient samples were stained for LTB4 and its receptors, BLT1 and BLT2; COX2 and 5‐LOX expression. Cultured HRS cell‐lines were serum starved and treated with LTB4 receptor antagonists for 72 hrs and cell viability assessed.

Analysis revealed moderate to strong expression of COX2, 5‐LOX, LTB4, BLT1 and BLT2 on HRS cells. HRS cells also upregulated LTB4 receptor expression in response to serum starvation in‐vitro. Treatment of HRS cells with LTB4 receptor antagonists induced significant HRS cell death as compared to vehicle‐treated controls. Our data support the hypothesis that LTB4 may be an important autocrine survival factor for HRS cells.