bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular heat‐shock protein 90 down‐regulates NK cell immune responses
Authors: Lee Saet-byul , Koh Jiae , Kim Jongsun
Published: June 2021

90‐Kda heat‐shock proteins (Hsp90s) are expressed on various cells. The function of Hsp90 is different depending on the intracellular and extracellular locations. Intracellular Hsp90 has protective function regulating programmed cell death in lethal condition and thereby blocks the apoptotic cell death. Cancer cells abnormally express a high level of Hsp90 and intracellularly overexpressed Hsp90 facilitates oncogenesis and chemotherapy resistance. In contrast, extracellular Hsp90 or membrane‐bound Hsp90 is related to immune responses but the function of extracellular Hsp90 is not known well. NK cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes that play an important role in the rejection of tumor and virus infected cells. Here we showed the effects of the extracellular Hsp90 to NK cells. We investigated interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) secretion, cytotoxic effects, and the changes of various receptors and ligands expression of NK cells when treated with recombinant Hsp90 with/without IL‐2. As a result, the recombinant Hsp90 was not effective in IFN‐γ secretion but it inhibited IFN‐γ secretion of IL‐2 stimulated NK cells. In addition, NK cell cytotoxicity to breast and ovarian cancer cell lines, MCF7 and CAOV3, was inhibited when NK cells were treated with Hsp90. Consistently with the above results, the recombinant Hsp90 down regulated TRAIL, NKG2D, and HLA‐DR and up regulated inhibitory receptor KIR. These results demonstrated that the extracellular Hsp90 down‐regulates NK cell immune responses, therefore, blocking the intracellular and extracellular Hsp90 can be helpful in preventing cancer progression and in enhancing immune responses against the cancer cells.
Role of Alpha‐Synuclein and it mutants on Dithiocarbamates Cytotoxicity
Authors: Stoll Anna , Cheng Shu-Yuan
Published: June 2021

Mn‐containing dithiocarbamates, such as maneb (MB) and mancozeb (MZ), have been known to increase the toxicity of neurotoxin MPTP on dopaminergic neurons leading to cell death and Parkinson‐like symptoms. Dopamine transporter (DAT), a key protein in MPTP's toxicity, transports the active metabolite (MPP+) into dopaminergic neurons; increasing the cell surface expression of DAT increases uptake of MPTP. Alpha‐synuclein (both wt and A30P & A53T mutants) have been associated with Parkinson's, and are thought to regulate DAT trafficking by interacting with DAT.

The aim of this study is elucidate the role of the alpha‐synuclein and its mutants on dithiocarbamate cytotoxicity. HEK cells transfected with DAT and alpha‐synuclein (either wt or mutant) were treated with dithiocarbamates. Lysates were used for co‐immunoprecipitation using anti‐DAT antibody. The precipitated proteins were subjected to Western blot analysis using alpha‐synuclein and DAT antibodies.

We report roughly a 30% decrease in the DAT/alpha‐synuclein interaction in the presence of the A53T mutant versus wild‐type, but not in the present of A30P mutant. With dithiocarbamates the interaction of DAT and alpha‐synuclein (wt) was enhanced, with increases ranging from 50% to 200%. Pesticide treated A53T mutants respond more dramatically than A30P mutants in increasing the interaction between the DAT and the alpha‐synuclein.
Platypus ‐ A Streamlined Pipeline to Identify Plasmodium Genomic Variants, with Drug Development Applications
Authors: Manary Micah John , Winzeler Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

While recent advances in high‐throughput sequencing are rapidly being integrated into the methodology of human genomics, the application to non‐diploid species is slow. We introduce a streamlined pipeline, Platypus (Plasmodium Typing Utility Software), for the analysis of Plasmodium spp. sequencing data, with special emphasis on detecting genetic modifications resulting in drug resistance. The Platypus includes sequence alignment and quality control as well as single nucleotide and copy number variant detection, and provides both a tabular output of suspected variants and visualization in a graphical interface. It also allows for the customization of specificity and sensitivity parameters to fit the needs of the user. The CNV calling algorithm we present is completely novel for a haploid species, and has been validated on a number of known amplifications and deletions in Plasmodium. This feature in particular will increase the consistency with which researchers report copy number mutations because it reduces spurious results. We demonstrate its capabilities by detecting the genetic targets of a number of novel pharmaceutical candidates against Plasmodium, which are now entering clinical trials.
Pingry School SMART Team Project: Modeling Current Strategies in HIV‐1 Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
Authors: O'Mara Deirdre Eveleen , Arnold Eddy , Herman Tim , Lin Tracey , Monteagudo Louis , Kapoor Amol , Fishman Joshua , Stacey Chen , Vella Avery , Gagnon Sara
Published: June 2021

Pingry School's 2012 S.M.A.R.T (Students Modeling A Research Topic) Team with Eddy Arnold from The Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine (CABM) at Rutgers University who utilized X‐ray crystallography to determine the structure of HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase (HIV‐1 RT) in multiple functional states which led to detailed understanding of multiple nucleoside RT inhibitors (NRTIs) and and the design of non‐nucleoside RT inhibitors (NNRTIs), including two anti‐AIDS drugs. NRTIs inhibit RT by attaching to the dNTP substrate‐binding pocket, while NNRTIs are allosteric inhibitors. Our project models the NRTI and NNRTI inhibition sites on HIV‐1 RT and demonstrates the efficacy of NRTIs in comparison to NNRTIs on various mutations of HIV‐1 RT. Our physical models contrast the binding of NRTIs and NNRTIs to RT. Specifically, we examine the NRTI drug, AZT, and the NNRTI drugs, etravirine and rilpivirine. The latter two have strategic flexibility and their structures “wiggle and jiggle” inside the binding pocket, consequently making it more difficult for a mutated RT to evade resistance. The Pingry S.M.A.R.T. Team used the findings as a basis for the design of a set of three 3‐dimensional models using Jmol and a 3‐dimensional printer to demonstrate the drug‐RT interactions. These models show interactions that reflect the current research of HIV‐1 RT inhibition. Supported by a grant from the NIH‐SEPA.
Creating a Drug Assay with Synthetic Biology using the Barbiturate‐responsive Repressor BM3R1
Authors: Coriz Asheley Monique , Haines Donovan C
Published: June 2021

In forensics, there is an ongoing need for drug assays. The detection of drugs may benefit from the application of synthetic biology. The initial creation of a drug assay using synthetic biology can be useful in the future in that these devices can be modified for new emerging drugs and detection assays can be incorporated later into more complicated genetic devices. This experiment was conducted to test the utility of synthetic biology with the BM3R1 repressor, which is reported to be sensitive to ibuprofen and barbiturates. Primers were created for the repressor and then polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed. Gel electrophoresis was used to determine if PCR products were produced before being inserted into a plasmid. A BM3R1 regulated promoter from Bacillus megaterium was synthesized by oligonucleotide assembly. The availability of this new biosensor circuit will now allow us to test assays using the diverse reporters available. Supported by the Welch Foundation and the McNair Scholars Program
Dietary calcium intake influenced by the consumption of maté* infusion in undergraduate nutrition majors from Argentina
Authors: de Oliveira Andrade Adriana , Chevallier María Carolina , Calle Mariana Cecilia
Published: June 2021

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to evaluate calcium dietary intake and attitudes/behaviors toward calcium dietary sources in undergraduate nutrition majors (178 women, 19–30 y) at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Food frequency questionnaire and behavioral questions were used to assess calcium intake and barriers for calcium intake respectively. Calcium intake was 977.25 ±455.89 mg/d; however 40% of participants were below the estimated average requirement (EAR) of 800mg/d. For those participants who reported barriers toward calcium sources, aversion to dairy (13%) and preference for other beverages (12%) were the most frequent. Regarding eating habits: Drinking milk for breakfast (r= 0.27; p<0.001) or as afternoon snack (r= 0.20; p=0.008) was positively associated with calcium intake. Whereas drinking maté* infusion for breakfast (r= −0.32; p<0.001) or as afternoon snack (r= −0.24; p=0.001) was negatively associated with calcium intake. Similarly having preference for other type of beverage was negatively associated with calcium intake (r= −0.17; p=0.026). The habit of drinking infusions, replacing dairy, influences calcium intake. This habit appears to override the knowledge acquired by this group of future dietitians. Strategies to increase calcium consumption in this population targeting dietary habits are needed.
Regional anatomy of the prostate: Are we providing the most clinically relevant material during anatomy courses
Authors: Matsler Nik , Benninger Brion
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION

Prostate pathology is inevitable for the aging male (50% by 60, 90% by 80). Despite this, students are not traditionally required to dissect the prostate and the intimately associated structures. The objective of this study was to investigate clinically relevant prostate anatomy in a dissection course.

METHODS

Literature search of contemporary anatomy textbooks, atlases, websites, and specialty journals was conducted regarding the prostate and associated anatomy. Urology surgeons were consulted for relevant anatomy. Dissection of the prostate region on embalmed male cadavers was conducted.

RESULTS

Literature search revealed a difference in emphasized clinically relevant structures between urologists (specialty journals) and anatomy texts/atlases. Cadaver dissection revealed successful identification of clinically relevant structures.

DISCUSSION

Prostate signs and symptoms are clinically significant and prevalent in the population. Surgery is a common treatment of benign and malignant prostatic hypertrophy. Dr. P.C. Walsh recognized the benefit of detailed anatomical knowledge while developing a neurovascular preserving technique, which reduced postoperative symptoms and side effects.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that contemporary anatomy texts and atlases could add further emphasis to clinically relevant structures of the prostatic region.
Dietary Advanced Glycation End‐products (AGEs) of Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU)
Authors: Maier Haiyan , Spicer Maria
Published: June 2021

Dietary AGEs, also known as glycotoxin, is associated with inflammation and oxidative stress in Diabetes Metillus (DM). Exogenous AGEs in food are the major contributors to total body AGEs. The objective of this study is to determine whether AGEs intake and other dietary factors influence wound healing duration and wound severity of patients with DFU

The research protocol was approved by Human Subjects Committee of The Florida State University. Thirty DFU patients between 45–75 years of age were recruited from wound care centers in Tallahassee, FL. Three 24 hour food recalls with emphasis on cooking methods were collected from each participant. ESHA Food Processor SQL was used for food intake analysis. AGEs content was determined based on a published database by Goldberg (2004). Statistical analyses, include correlation of AGEs and wound healing duration, were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 19.

Initial analysis of the data indicates a positive trend for wound healing duration and dietary glycotoxin, as well as saturated fat intake. Patients with DFU have higher fat intake, especially saturated fat, and, lower fruit and vegetable intake compared with the U.S. dietary guidelines.

Decreasing dietary glycotoxin and fat intake may promote faster wound healing and may be used as a predictor for DFU healing time.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids levels in toddlers are related to maternal FADS2 DNA methylation and rs174575 genotype
Authors: LUPU DANIEL , NICULESCU MIHAI D. , CHEATHAM CAROL L. , STEGALL JUDITH M.
Published: June 2021

DL and MDN contributed equally to the scientific content of this abstract.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of maternal genotype and DNA methylation status of the fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) upon plasma PUFAs concentrations in toddlers.108 toddlers (16 months old) and their mothers were enrolled in a double‐blind intervention study (see abstract no. 6386). At the study start, maternal and toddlers’ FADS2 genotype (rs174575), maternal FADS2 promoter DNA methylation, and toddlers’ plasma fatty acid profiles were assessed using real time PCR, bisulfite pyrosequencing, and capillary gas chromatography, respectively. Using linear regression we identified significant correlations between maternal genotypes/FADS2 promoter methylation and omega‐3 and 6 species. In addition, we have identified one CpG site within maternal FADS2 promoter, with the highest correlation to α‐linolenic acid (18:3, ALA) plasma concentrations in toddlers. Stratification by gender indicated that such correlations are stronger for male toddlers as compared to females. Pending ongoing determinations in toddlers, our preliminary conclusion is that maternal FADS2 genotype (rs174575) and DNA methylation status had in imprinting effect upon the metabolism of omega‐3 and 6 fatty acids in toddlers. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether imprinting is of metabolic or epigenetic nature.
Bifidobacterial Endoglycosidases Release Complex N‐linked Glycans from Host Glycoproteins
Authors: GARRIDO DANIEL , Nwosu Charles , Ruiz-Moyano Santiago , Aldredge Danielle , German J. Bruce , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Mills David A
Published: June 2021

Breastfeeding is one of the main factors guiding the composition of the gut microbiota in the infant. This process is shaped by the high amounts of human milk oligosaccharides that serve as a carbon source for gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium species. We hypothesized that they also interact with structurally similar N‐glycans found on glycoproteins present in human milk and the intestinal epithelium. Genes encoding endo‐B‐N‐acetylglucosaminidases were identified in certain isolates of bifidobacteria, and their presence correlated with their ability to deglycosylate glycoproteins. An endoglycosidase from B. infantis ATCC 15697, EndoBI‐1, was active towards all major types of N‐linked glycans. EndoBI‐1 activity was not affected by core fucosylation or extensive fucosylation, antenna number or sialylation, releasing several N‐glycans from human lactoferrin and immunoglobulins A and G. Extensive N‐deglycosylation of whole breast milk was also observed after coincubation with EndoBI‐1. Mutation of the active site of EndoBI‐1 did not abolish binding to N‐glycosylated proteins, and this mutant specifically recognized Man3GlcNAc2Fuc, the core structure of human N‐glycans. This work reveals an unprecedented interaction of bifidobacteria with host N‐glycans, and describes the properties of EndoBI‐1, a novel endoglycosidase active on diverse host glycoproteins with varying N‐glycosylation types
Oral administration of dead Lactobacillus sakei inhibits atopic dermatitis‐like skin lesion in NC/Nga mice
Authors: KIM JI YUN , Pyo Suhkneung
Published: June 2021

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which is characterized by pruritic skin lesions. Probiotics such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria have been known to generate beneficial biological effects including modulation of immune responses and have been suggested as new effective anti‐inflammatory agents. However, the effect of heat‐killed L. sakei proBio65 isolated from Kimchi has not been elucidated. This study was undertaken to investigate the inhibitory effect of dead L. sakei proBio65 on allergic responses in vivo and in vitro. In NC/Nga mouse model, our result revealed that oral administration of heat‐killed L. sakei proBio65 improved skin condition and reduced scratching frequency. In addition, ELISA assay showed that the treatment with dead L. sakei proBio65 resulted in the inhibition of serum IgE and IL‐4 production. The present data also demonstrated that dead L. sakei proBio65 inhibited IgE‐mediated histamine and β‐hexosaminidase release from RBL‐2H3 cells. Taken together, these results suggest that dead L. sakei proBio65 has an inhibitory effect on atopic dermatitis (AD)‐like skin lesion and is proposed as a potential treatment for allergies.
Conceptualization and Assessment of Nutrition Needs in Intermarried Couples in South Korea
Authors: Hwang Ji-Yun , Kim Eunjung
Published: June 2021

No attempt was made to understand nutrition barriers for intermarried couples in South Korea. This study was undertaken to understand how Vietnamese marriage immigrants and Korean husbands perceive and assess their need for nutrition education and program. Qualitative in‐depth interviews were done with a sample of Vietnamese marriage immigrant women and Korean spouses participating in or having experienced Nutrition Plus from Community Health Centers in Seoul, Korea. Each interview was recorded using digital voice recorders, transcribed, and analyzed. Perceptions of nutrition needs were assessed by comprehensive understanding of the extent to which an intermarried wife or a Korean husband has barriers of eating properly to maintain good nutritional status. Qualitative analysis revealed that need was determined by various cultural, economic, and environmental factors including food insecurity of the intermarried households, rather than by a single characteristic of them. Suggestions are presented regarding future efforts to better understand and meet the nutrition needs of intermarried couples to respond to their heterogeneous needs and to deliver adequate nutrition service to ever increasing intermarried families.

This study was supported by the grant from National Research Foundation of Korea (2011‐0014986).
Nutrition Education Improves Food Security of Low Income Hispanic Families
Authors: Algert Susan , Renvall Marian
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to measure changes in the home food environment of food stamp eligible families participating in a series of nutrition and food resource management classes designed to improve food security. This small pilot study conducted before and after food inventories and ethnographic interviews with 5 families to measure success of the classes in improving the quality and quantity of foods at home. Home food inventories were also collected in a control group of 4 families not participating in classes. Families participating in classes improved food security by making the following behavior changes to stretch their food dollars: planning menus, using leftovers, using shopping lists and shopping less often. Participants used savings to purchase additional healthy food. Analysis of the food inventory data indicated that families made the following positive changes in the home food environment after completing the classes: increased fruit and vegetable variety by 30 %, increased the amount of fresh fruit by 30% and increased the use of whole wheat bread by 100%. Control group families were more likely to be single head‐of‐household and had more high–sugar and processed foods in the home at baseline. This research was supported by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Intervention to promote physical activity and dietary lifestyle changes in students attending public primary schools of Sonora México
Authors: QUIZAN-PLATA TRINIDAD , MENESES LILIANA VILLARREAL , ROMERO JULIAN ESPARZA , BARRAGAN CLAUDIA ANAYA , MORENO SAMUEL GALAVIZ , GARCIA MARIA ESTHER OROZCO , LOPEZ ARMIDA ESPINOZA
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an intervention to promote physical activity and dietary lifestyle changes in students attending public primary schools of Sonora México. Six schools were randomly allocated to either intervention or control. We applied food‐frequency, nutrition‐knowledge, and physical‐activity questionnaires pre‐and post‐intervention in order to evaluate changes in both groups. Multiple linear regression and independent t‐tests were applied. Fruit and vegetable consumption increased significantly (p=0.004) and total fat consumption decreased (p=0.002) in the intervention schools when compared with the control schools. Nutrition knowledge in intervention students was higher than control students (p=0.001). The intervention increased physical activity in intervention schools in which students made up to 6 hours per week of sporting activity, whereas students in control schools made up to 4.5 hours (p=0.041). Sedentary activities decreased significantly in intervention schools (p=0.006). Results suggest that continuous promotion of healthy habits including physical activity and nutrition in children can help to prevent health risk. Supported by Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología.
T Cell Response to Ex Vivo Stimulations in Neonate Piglets is Influenced by Diet and Vaccination
Authors: Burdette Jill , Comstock Sarah S , Liu Kilia , Monaco Marcia H , Donovan Sharon M
Published: June 2021

During the first weeks of life, an infant's immune system is naive and less responsive to infection. Herein, the impact of diet and influenza vaccination on ex vivo T‐cell responses was assessed. Sow‐reared (SR) and formula‐fed (FF) piglets were vaccinated with Fluzone on day 7 and 14 postnatal age. Ex vivo stimulations with PHA, PMA+A23187, Fluzone and LPS were performed on PBMC isolated on day 21. T‐cells were phenotyped by flow cytometry prior to and after 48h stimulation. IFN‐γ secretion by PBMC after 24h was assessed by ELISpot. T‐cell populations changed in culture, with an increase in the proportion of CD4+ and a decrease in CD8+ T‐cells. After 48h, PBMC from SR piglets, either unstimulated or Fluzone stimulated, contained more (p<0.05) CD3+CD4+ T cells than FF. CD3+CD8+ T cells were greater (p<0.05) in PBMC from vaccinated piglets, independent of diet, in unstimulated, Fluzone and PHA treatments. The elevated CD8+ numbers was consistent with greater IFN‐γ secretion (p<0.05) by PBMC from vaccinated piglets. Thus, diet and vaccination independently influenced immune cell phenotype and function ex vivo.
Comparison of the efficacy of popular weight loss programs in sedentary overweight women II: health & fitness markers
Authors: Jung Y , Baetge C , Lockard B , Mardock M , Simbo S , Galvan E , Levers K , Byrd M , Koozehchian M , Khanna D , Sanchez B , Jagim A , Oliver J , Kresta J , Horrell K , Leopold T , Cho M , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

126 sedentary women (44±12 yr, 44.8±5% body fat, 35.4±6 kg/m2) were randomized to participate in a control group (C) or the Curves Complete® 90‐day Challenge (CC), Weight Watchers® Points Plus (WW), Jenny Craig® (JC), or Nutrisystem® Advance Select™ (NS) weight loss programs for 12‐wks. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and are presented as changes from baseline after 12‐wks. Participants in diet groups had greater changes in waist (C 2.1±6.6; CC −3.8±5.5; WW −4.0±5.7; JC −3.7±3.3; NS 2.9±6.3 %, p=0.008) and hip 2.9±6.3 %, p=0.008) and hip circumference (C 0.8±3.2; CC 2.9±6.3 %, p=0.008) and hip 4.9±4.6; WW −2.7±2.8; JC −5.1±4.4; NS −4.1±4.0 %, p=0.001) with no differences among diet groups. Resting HR, SBP, and DBP decreased over time with no differences observed among groups. Changes in relative peak VO2 (C −2.2±10; CC 15.4±17; WW 7.4±19; JC 8.1±11; NS 3.8±7 %, p=0.001) and 1 RM bench press (C −1.1±14; CC 9.3±13; WW 4.7±15; JC 5.4±14; NS −3.7±15 %, p=0.01) were greater in the CC group while changes in 1RM leg press (C 13.7±24; CC 16.1±22; WW 3.6±20; JC 0.5±23; NS 3.7±24 %, p=0.07) and leg press endurance (C 8.4±36; CC 47.3±120; WW −4.5±45; JC 6.0±56; NS 1.8±46 %, p=0.07) tended to be greater in the CC group. Results indicate that participation in the CC program promotes more favorable changes in markers of fitness than other popular weight loss programs. Supported by Curves International, Waco, TX
Vitamin D, influenza vaccine response, and respiratory illness
Authors: Sundaram Maria , Talbot H. Keipp , Zhu Yuwei , Griffin Marie R. , Belongia Edward A. , Spencer Sarah , Thompson Mark , Shay David K. , Coleman Laura A.
Published: June 2021

Background

There is evidence that vitamin D (vit D) affects immunity and response to infection. The objective of this study was to determine whether serum vit D predicts influenza vaccine response or upper respiratory illness (URI).

Methods

1101 adults ≥ 50 years old were recruited from 2 communities in WI and TN during the 2008–2009 and 2009–2010 flu seasons. Pre‐and post‐vaccination hemagglutinin antibody inhibition (HAI) titers to vaccine components and serum vit D (1,25(OH)2D) were measured. Seroprotection was defined as HAI ≥ 40; seroconversion as ≥ 4‐fold increase in post‐vaccination HAI. ARI was assessed by self‐report.

Results

Mean (± SD) serum vit D was 31 ± 10 ng/mL; 28.5% participants were vitamin D deficient (VDD). Vit D and VDD did not predict seroconversion for any vaccine components in 08–09 (odds ratio [OR]: 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00: 0.98–1.01, 1.00: 0.98–1.02, and 1.01: 0.99–1.03) for H1N1, H3N2 and B subtypes, respectively (controlling for age, gender, and pre‐vaccination HAI). Vit D did not predict seroconversion in 09–10 or seroprotection or ARI in either year. VDD was related to physician‐attended URI (p = 0.01) but no other disease outcomes in year 1.

Conclusions

There was no consistent relationship between vit D and response to influenza vaccination or respiratory illness in our population.

Funding Source: CDC 5 U18 IP000183‐02, CDC 1 U18 IP000184‐01, K23 A1074863‐01A1 (Talbot)
Sialyllactose concentrations in mature human milk: a nine country survey
Authors: Li Xi , Burgher Anita M. , Van Alstine Leslie , Pramuk Kathryn
Published: June 2021

Human milk (HM) contains large amounts of free oligosaccharides (OSs), which play an important role in the immune response of breast‐fed infants against pathogens. One of the most prevalent OS in HM is sialyllactose (SL). 6′‐sialyllactose (6′SL) and 3′‐sialyllactose (3′SL) are the two most abundant isomers. To survey the concentrations of SL and evaluate the relationship between this important OS in mature HM (lactation duration ≥ 30 days) and stage of lactation, 236 samples from individual mothers were collected from nine different countries on five continents. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of 6′SL concentration was 147 ± 122 mg/L for all samples and the means ranged from 83 to 267 mg/L among countries, with Chile and Mexico significantly higher than other countries. An inverse relationship between 6′SL concentration and the days of lactation was found (estimated slope = −0.01113, p < 0.0001). Conversely, the mean values of 3′SL varied little among countries and the mean ± SD was 127 ± 38 mg/L for the samples. There were no statistically significant trends for 3′SL concentration over course of the lactation in mature HM for all nine countries.

Funded by Pfizer Nutrition.
No association between white potatoes, (baked, boiled, or mashed) and systemic inflammation, obesity, or type II diabetes: Analysis of 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Drewnowski Adam , Rehm Colin D. , Beals Katherine A.
Published: June 2021

Research exploring the association between specific foods and disease often fails to control for potential confounders, including socioeconomic status and race/ethnicity. This study examined the association between consuming white potatoes (baked, boiled or mashed) and obesity, diabetes and systemic inflammation (serum c‐reactive protein [CRP]), while controlling for covariates (e.g., age, sex, race, education, diet quality and physical activity) in a representative sample of 5,800 US adults. Dietary and health data were obtained from the 2003–4 and 2005–6 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Consumption of potatoes was obtained from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Among adults, 15% consumed potatoes ≥3 times/wk. After adjusting for covariates, adults consuming potatoes ≥3 times/wk had a non‐significant 10% increased likelihood of being obese (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9–1.3). There was a non‐significant negative association between potato consumption and diabetes (prevalence ratio 0.9, 95% CI 0.6–1.3) and there was no association between potato consumption and CRP. There was no evidence that consumption of baked, boiled or mashed white potatoes increased the likelihood of obesity or diabetes. The limitations of this study were the cross‐sectional design and the lack of data on portion sizes from the FFQ. Partial funding for this project was provided by the US Potato Board.
Meeting school food standards in the UK – students’ food choice & free school meals
Authors: Ensaff Hannah , Russell Jean , Barker Margo E
Published: June 2021

The food preferences and eating patterns of school children are paramount to the school food debate. The main objective of this study was to examine students’ school food choice in relation to school food standards and entitlement to free school meals.

This study investigated the school food choices of 2660 students at two large secondary schools in Yorkshire. Utilizing seven months’ data from the cashless system employed in the schools’ dining facilities, a cross sectional analysis was conducted.

Sandwiches and pizza were the most popular main food items: School A – 40.4% and 31.2%, respectively; School B – 48.3% and 27.3%. More nutritionally valuable ‘dishes of the day’ accounted for 8.7% and 8.3% of main foods for School A and School B, respectively. Free School Meal (FSM) students were more likely (p<0.001) to choose main foods (School A – FSM 87.04%; non‐FSM 70.28%) (School B – FSM 75.43%; non‐FSM 56.13%). ‘Dishes of the day’ were chosen on a significantly greater (p<0.001) percentage of days by FSM compared to non‐FSM students (School A – FSM 15.67%; non‐FSM 7.11%) (School B – FSM 19.42%; non‐FSM 5.17%).

Despite the availability of nutritionally valuable ‘dishes of the day’, the most popular food items were sandwiches, pizza, and desserts. FSM students were more likely to choose the more nutritionally valuable ‘dish of the day’. School food standards should be reassessed in light of students’ preferences.
Increased frequency of consumption of prepared foods potentially high in trans‐fatty acids (TFA) is positively associated with low density lipoprotein cholesterol in persons with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Schwenke Dawn , Foreyt John P. , Miller Edgar R. , Reeves Rebecca S. , Vitolins Mara Z. ,   The Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress Subgroup of the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: June 2021

Relations between food sources of TFA and high‐and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL and LDL, respectively) are unclear in persons with type 2 diabetes. We studied cross‐sectional relationships between reported intake frequency of prepared foods (French fries, doughnuts, cookies, chips, crackers, other snacks, nondairy creamer), stick margarine, dairy, and meat from ruminants and HDL and LDL. We studied 251 participants (58% women, 32% minority) in Look AHEAD, a trial of lifestyle for weight loss to reduce cardiovascular events in overweight/obese adults (aged 45–76) with type 2 diabetes. Before intervention (June 2002–November 2004), nutrients and eating frequency of foods were assessed by Look AHEAD food frequency questionnaire and fasting LDL and HDL were measured. Analysis of covariance adjusted for demographics, BMI, statin use, total calories, dietary fats and protein, other foods of interest, and physical activity. For highest (average each included food > once per week), middle, and lowest (once per month) tertiles of prepared food intake, LDL was 120 (95% CI 108, 133), 104 (96, 113), and 96 (86, 106) mg/dL, respectively (trend p<0.003). No other foods were associated with LDL and HDL was not associated with any foods. These results suggest the benefit of consuming prepared foods no more than once per month. Funded by 7RO1 HL70300.
Hydration Deficit After Breakfast Intake Among British Schoolchildren
Authors: barker margo , Benefer Martin , Russell Jean , Lepicard Eve , Constant Florence , Hawili Nasrine , Friedlander Gerard
Published: June 2021

Nutrition surveys of British schoolchildren have not assessed hydration. This cross‐sectional study aimed to measure children's morning hydration status and to relate this to breakfast water intake. We recruited a convenience sample of 452 schoolchildren aged 9 to 11 years through primary schools in South Yorkshire. Children collected a sample of urine at home within 30min of usual breakfast for measurement of urinary osmolality. Dietary intake at breakfast was estimated using a diary method where children or parents recorded all foods and drinks consumed. A mild hydration deficit was common, with 60% of children having urinary osmolality over 800 mOsmol/kg. There was a greater prevalence of elevated osmolality in boys compared to girls (68.4% versus 53.5 %). Furthermore, 18.6 % of children recorded urinary osmolality over 1000 mOsmol/kg. We could not find any association between breakfast water intake and urine osmolality either in univariate or multivariate analysis. This lack of association may arise because of children's imprecise dietary recording and misclassification of water intake.

The study was sponsored by Nestlé Waters.
The impact of compliance on the effectiveness of the Medifast meal replacement program for weight loss in overweight and obese clients: A retrospective chart review of three Medifast Weight Control Centers (MWCC)
Authors: Kiel Jessica R. , Coleman Christopher D. , Mitola Andrea , Sonzone Carmine M. , Davis Lisa M.
Published: June 2021

Objective

A chart review was performed to evaluate the association between compliance and the effectiveness of the Medifast meal replacement plan (MD) on body weight from baseline to final visit (FV) for the years 2007–10.

Methods

Charts included adults aged 18–70 following the MD with a BMI ≥25 that signed a health information consent form. 453 charts were included. Compliance included attendance at weekly visits (WV), intake of meal replacements (MR) and supplements (ω‐3), food journals (FJ), and ketone testing (KT).

Results

53% of clients attended a WV for their entire prescribed program. When clients attended, the average compliance for MR=70%, ω‐3=76%, FJ=53% and KT=96%. There is significant correlation between all the compliance factors with the strongest relationships between WV, MR, and FJ (p<0.01). Bivariate random effects (RE) regressions showed significant (p<0.05) inverse relationships between wt Δ and WV, MR, FJ and ω‐3. Multivariate RE analysis showed sustained significant (p<0.05) relationships between wt Δ and WV (β= −41.5), MR (β= −1.3) and KT (β= 2.9) (R2=0.22, Wald Chi2 (df=3) 148, p<0.0001).

Conclusion

Taken together, these results reveal significant associations between several components of compliance and weight loss, but particularly highlight the importance of WV, a benefit of the MWCC model over non‐clinic based models. This research was funded by Medifast, Inc., Owings Mills, MD.
Racial Differences in Sex Hormones with Weight Loss and Weight Loss Maintenance in Overweight and Obese Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Stolzenberg-Solomon Rachael , Falk Roni , Stanczyk Frank , Hoover Robert , Appel Lawrence , Ard Jamy , Batch Bryan , Coghlin Janelle , Lien Lillian , Pinkston Christina , Svetkey Laura , Katki Hormuzd
Published: June 2021

Changes in sex hormones with weight loss might have implications for breast cancer prevention and have not been examined extensively, particularly in African‐American (AA) women. We conducted a longitudinal study of 278 overweight/obese postmenopausal women (38% AA), not taking hormone therapy, who lost at least 4 kg after a 6‐month weight‐loss program. During the next 12 months, participants attempted to sustain weight loss. We evaluated percent change in serum estrone (E1), total estradiol (E2), testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) across the two phases using GEE. During the weight‐loss program, mean weight loss was 7.7 kg: E1 (−5.7%, P=0.006) and E2 (−9.9%, P< 0.001) decreased, SHBG (16.2%, P< 0.001) increased. During weight maintenance, weight increased on average 2.2 kg: E1 (−6.4%, P=0.003) and SHBG (−8.0%, P<0.0001) decreased. AA women experienced less change in estrogens (E1 0.6% vs. 1.2%, p‐interaction= 0.10, E2 1.1% vs. 1.9%, p‐interaction=0.04) and SHBG (0.9% vs. 1.6%, p‐interaction=0.006) per kg weight change than non‐AA. AA women also had significantly higher estrogen concentrations, independent of adiposity. Overweight/obese postmenopausal women who successfully lose and maintain weight have reductions in estrogens which may reduce breast cancer risk. The racial differences merit investigation.
A study for development of a food exchange guide for Koreans to reduce energy, cholesterol and sodium, and to increase calcium consumption using one portion sizes of dishes frequently consumed by Korean adults
Authors: Kim Mi-Hyun , Kim Sook-Bae , Kim Soon-Kyung , Kim Se-Na , Kim So-Young , Cho Young-Sook
Published: June 2021

To help people achieve a balanced diet, various nutrition education tools have been developed and used. Among them, the food exchange system is most common and has been introduced to provide flexibility, balance and variety to a diet. It is based on the macronutrient value and serving size of each food. Foods are usually consumed by not a single item but by a dish cooked with various food items. And the cooking method and food combination can change energy and nutrient contents in a wide range. Also, the increase of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and osteoporosis has been important public health issue in Korea, so it is very important not only for energy consumption but also the consumption of other nutrients related to these chronic diseases. Considering these, the current food exchange system has certain limitations. In this study, we developed a food exchange guide using one portion size dishes frequently consumed by Korean adults. This is composed of four categories: 1) the food exchange list for reducing energy, 2) cholesterol, and 3) sodium, and 4) the food exchange list for increasing calcium. These results can be conveniently used by the general public, people who need diet therapy to manage chronic diseases or their dietary planners when making food selections for a nutritionally balanced diet.«This study was financially supported by the National Academy of Agricultural Science of Rural Development Administration»
Kefir Inhibits Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis of Epithelial Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: rizk sandra , El-Hayek Stephanie
Published: June 2021

Kefir is a fermented milk product, to which many health benefits have been attributed. These include anti‐microbial, anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and metabolic benefits. Most importantly, many studies have proven that kefir may have anti‐cancerous potential. The current study aims at examining the effect of this probiotic on colorectal cancer cells, in vitro. Kefir's anti‐cancer potential was tested on Caco‐2 and HT‐29, colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines, through cytotoxicity, proliferation, and apoptotic assays. Kefir's cytotoxicity was assessed by determining the percentage viability of cells, using the Trypan Blue Exclusion method. After determining the IC50, the effect of various concentrations of kefir on the proliferation of Caco‐2 and HT‐29 cells was determined. Using WST‐1 cell proliferation assay, kefir was shown to be anti‐proliferative to the cells in a dose and time dependent manner. Through flow cytometry, kefir was also shown to induce cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, which was assumed to be an apoptotic effect. This was then confirmed by Cell Death Elisa Plus kit, which showed that apoptosis increased with increasing kefir concentration. Western Blot analysis demonstrated that kefir induces the overexpression of Bax, while repressing Bcl‐2.
Antioxidant activities of extracts from medicinal herbs and native plants associated with their polyphenols and flavonoids contents
Authors: Lee Bog-Hieu , Kim Eun Jin , Choi Joo-Yeun , Yu Miri , Kim Mi Young
Published: June 2021

The study was conducted to measure total polyphenol, total flavonoids and DPPH radical scavenging activity in total of 61 species (42 species of native plants and 19 species of medicinal plant extracts). The plants containing relatively high total polyphenol were Platycarya strobilacea, Fragaria yezoensis, Rubus coreanus Miquel, Geranium sibiricum, Rhododendron mucronulatum, Rosa multiflora, Eclipta prostrata Linne. Total flavonoids were higher in Catalpa ovata, Teucrium veronicoides, Chrysanthemum zawadskii var. latilobum, Platycarya strobilacea, Artemisia iwayomogi, Oplopanax elatus, Serratula coronata var. insularis, Artemisia iwayomogi Kitamura, Geranium sibiricum, and Rhododendron mucronulatum. DPPH radical scavenging activity was the highest in Rubus coreanus Miquel (78.69±0.91%) and also total polyphenols were the highest in Rubus coreanus Miquel(460.43±0.62 mg/extract weight g). However, the highest total flavonoids were seen in Artemisia iwayomogi Kitamura (174.52±3.61 mg/extract weight g). Interestingly, native plants such as Platycarya strobilacea, Geranium sibiricum, Rhododendron mucronulatum was found to have higher total polyphenol, total flavonoids and DPPH radical scavenging activity altogether compared with other plant extracts.
A diet enriched with fish, vegetables, and fruits worsened cognitive function and neuroinflammatory gene expression in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Parrott Matthew , Winocur Gordon , Bazinet Richard , Ma David , Greenwood Carol
Published: June 2021

Consumption of fish, fruits and vegetables are associated with lower incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We hypothesized that a similar dietary profile would improve cognitive function in a transgenic mouse model of AD. Groups of TgCRND8 mice, and their wildtype littermates, received a standard rodent diet or the standard diet enriched with freeze‐dried salmon, vegetables, and fruits over four months. During the last month of feeding, cognitive function was assessed by a comprehensive battery of tasks adapted to the Morris water maze. Transgenic animals were impaired on all cognitive tests compared to their wildtype littermates. Unexpectedly, a ‘Diet x Transgene’ interaction was observed in which transgenic animals fed the enriched diet exhibited even worse cognitive function than their transgenic counterparts fed the control diet on tests of spatial memory (P<0.01), cued memory (P<0.01), and strategic rule learning (P=0.038) that collectively indicated damage to the hippocampus and frontal lobes. These cognitive deficits coincided with higher hippocampal gene expression of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (P=0.013). These results indicate that a dietary profile identified by epidemiological studies exacerbated cognitive dysfunction in a mouse model of familial AD possibly by enhancing neuroinflammation through an impaired hormetic response. (CIHR)
Rubus coreanus Miquel inhibits prostate cancer invasion and migration by reduction of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 expression
Authors: Kim Jung-Hyun , Kim Yesl , Park Eunkyo
Published: June 2021

The growing incidence of prostate cancer and the traditional use of Rubus coreanus Miquel (RCM) for prostate health led us to compare RCM extracts and to test their efficacy in inhibiting the metastasis of prostate cancer cells. DU145 and PC‐3 cells were treated with unripe RCM ethanol extract (UE), unripe RCM water extract (UH), ripe RCM ethanol extract (RE), or ripe RCM water extract (RH) at concentration of 100 μg/ml for 24 h then matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), MMP‐9, membrane type 1‐MMP (MT1‐MMP), MT2‐MMP, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1), and TIMP‐2 expressions were assessed by western blot and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Invasion and wound healing assays were also performed. UE and UH treatment significantly reduced wound healing in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, UE and UH treatment decreased MMP‐2 and ‐9 mRNA and protein expressions but increased TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 mRNA and protein expressions. These results suggest that unripe RCM inhibits migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells by reducing MMPs and inducing TIMPs expression. This research was supported financially by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (Project No. 2009‐0068227)
Excess dietary energy intake and estrogen‐deprivation modulate adiposity‐related proinflammatory events in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Kim Jin , Kim Min-Young , Park Jinah , Bak Youn-Kyung
Published: June 2021

Postmenopausal weight gain is related to the development of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to explain the effects of excess body fat accumulation and/or estrogen deprivation on adiposity‐related pro‐inflammatory events. C57BL/6J female mice ovariectomized (OVX) or sham‐operated (SH) at 5 wk of age were fed with normal diet (ND, 15% fat as energy) or high fat diet (HD, 45% fat as energy) for 12 wk. Body and adipose tissue weight were significantly higher in OVX mice. High fat diet significantly increased the level of circulating insulin while the adiponectin level was decreased. The leptin level was significantly increased by OVX. There was no significant difference in the expression of PPAR‐¥á and SREBP1c mRNA in the liver. However, the expression of muscle Akt, phosphorylated Akt, FOXO1, and phosphorylated FOXO1 was higher in OVX+HD mice indicating possible muscle protein degradation. Adipose tissue leptin and TNF‐¥á mRNA expression were increased in OVX+HD mice. These results indicate that both estrogen deficiency and excess energy intake regulate systemic inflammation by modulating the production of major adipokines. This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology(20110011669)
Effect of quercetin‐3‐glucoside on gene expression in human colon cancer cells
Authors: You Hyun Ju , Ahn Hyung Jin , Ji Geun Eog
Published: June 2021

To investigate the mechanisms regarding anti‐proliferative effect of quercetin‐3‐glucoside (Q3G) on colon cancer cells, gene‐expression analysis of HT‐29 cells treated with Q3G was performed by microarray. Pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes by using R program, PANTHER, DAVID and GSEA bioinformatics tools showed changes in steroid biosynthesis (KEGG) and endoplasmic reticulum membrane (GOTERM) pathways after 12 hr treatment with 25 μM of Q3G. Q3G also induced distinctive morphological changes of cells and the effects of extracellular matrix‐associated integrin and related pathways on morphology were investigated by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. The changes in the expression of regulatory molecules such as p21CIP1, cyclin G2, ATF3, TRIB3, DDIT4, AKAP13, BHLHB2, RAP1GA1, and KLF6 were supposed to be associated with Q3G‐induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. This work was supported by the Technology Development Program (No. 110124‐2‐2‐SB010) for Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Next‐Generation BioGreen 21 Program (No. PJ008005), Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.