bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterologous expression of human phosphodiesterase 3A (hPDE3A) improves ethanol production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rhee Dong Keun , Hockman Steven Craig , Ahmad Faiyaz , Manganiello Vincent C.
Published: June 2021

Growing demands for energy and limitation of fossil fuels have promoted research on biofuels, in particular, on bioethanol. S. cerevisiae may be a very economical system to achieve higher ethanol concentrations. For that, the improvement of yield and efficiency of ethanol production is necessary, which is influenced by various factors. cAMP, a primary cell cycle regulator, plays a pivotal role in the regulation of carbon metabolism, cell growth, cell size, cell cycle, and stress responses. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) degrade cAMP. In order to provide the basis for improved ethanol production in yeast, we attempted to determine if regulation of cell cycle is related to the control of ethanol production. We heterologously expressed several isoforms of human PDE3A (full‐length and several truncated variants) in yeast and confirmed their catalytic activities. All truncated variants decreased cell growth rate, whereas full‐length hPDE3A accelerated it and increased ethanol yield. Although the cell size decreased in cells expressing full‐length hPDE3A, total dry cell mass was greatly increased. These indicate that PDE3A, which regulates cell cycle progression in oocytes and cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, accelerates cell growth rate in yeast, which results in increased biomass accompanied by higher ethanol production. Research support provided by NHLBI.
The effects of betaine supplementation on Pcyt2 +/− (ETKO) mice
Authors: Sivanesan Sugas , Bakovic Marica
Published: June 2021

The effect of choline metabolite betaine on alleviation of metabolic syndrome phenotype was investigated in CTP: phosphoethanolamine cytidylyltransferase knockout mice (ETKO). Adult ETKO gradually develop liver steatosis, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance even on a chow diet. Obese ETKO and lean 34‐week old wild‐type littermates (WT) were subjected to normal chow diet and supplemented with or without 1% betaine in drinking water for 8 weeks. The food and water intake along with total body weight were continuously monitored and the plasma and tissues lipid content, adipocyte size and liver steatosis were investigated at the end of the treatment. In 8 weeks, untreated ETKO and WT similarly gained 9.7%–10.4% of their initial body weight. Betaine treated ETKO however lost 4.2% of total body weight and there was no betaine effect on WT littermate weight. Treated ETKO plasma triglycerides (TAG) were reduced 40.9% and liver diacylglycerol (DAG) and TAG were reduced by 50% and 37.4% respectively. Significant reductions in adipocyte size and lipid droplet content in treated ETKO livers were histologically observed. The ETKO genes involved in liver lipogenesis including sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1 (SREBP‐1c), fatty acid synthase (FAS), stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD‐1), diglyceride acyltransferase‐1 (DGAT‐1) and diglyceride acyltransferase‐2 (DGAT‐2), had significantly reduced levels of expression after betaine treatments. Mitochondrial genes for fatty acid oxidation such as peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha (PGC‐1α), were on the other hand up‐regulated in comparison to betaine untreated ETKO. The data demonstrates a positive effect of betaine in improving negative effects of obesity and on overall lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function.

Grant Funding Source : Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural affairs
MED1 Coactivation of Androgen Receptor‐dependent Transcription is Mediated Through a Newly Discovered Noncanonical Binding Motif
Authors: Jin Feng , Fondell Joseph
Published: June 2021

The androgen receptor (AR) is uncommon among Nuclear receptor (NR) because of its intramolecular interaction(termed the N/C interaction) and thus coactivators can alternatively bind to surfaces in the AR amino terminal. The Mediator complex plays a key coregulatory role in steroid hormone dependent transcription and is chiefly targeted to NRs via the LxxLL‐containing MED1 subunit. However, the mechanisms by which AR recruits MED1 have remained unclear. Here we show that MED1 binds to a distinct AR amino‐terminal region termed transactivation unit‐1 (Tau‐1) via two newly discovered noncanonical α‐helical motifs of MED1. The two MED1 LxxLL motifs are not required for AR binding whereas loss of the intramolecular AR N/C interaction decreases MED1 binding. We further demonstrate that mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphorylation of MED1 enhances the AR‐MED1 interaction in prostate cancer cells. In sum, our findings reveal a novel AR‐coactivator binding mechanism that may have clinical implications for AR activity in prostate cancer.
Roles and Specificities of LPS from Highly Pathogenic Burkholderia Species
Authors: Brown Katherine A , Qazi Omar , Gnanam Annie , Nieves Wildaliz , Judy Barbara , Morici Lisa , Torres Alfredo , Estes D Mark
Published: June 2021

Burkholderia pseudomallei and Burkholderia mallei are category B biothreat agents and the causative agents of the diseases melioidosis and glanders, respectively. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is among the few genuine virulence factors that have been identified in these organisms. The structural and functional features of these molecules (e.g., low endotoxicity, O‐antigen and Lipid A structures) suggest that these LPSs can be exploited in translational applications. We present data demonstrating how the immunological and unique structural specificities enable both protective efficacies and specific molecular recognition of the different moieties in vaccine and diagnostic applications.
Mechanisms of Radiomitigative Cell Signaling Via Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptors
Authors: Tigyi Gabor , Nagyne-Kiss Gyongyi , Fells James , Liu Dianna , Yue Junming , Shuyu E , Thompson Karin , Yates Ryan , Balazs Louisa , Parrill Abby , Deng Wenlin , Gupte Renuka , Miller Duane , Lin Fang-Tsyr
Published: June 2021

Radiomitigators attenuate radiation injury when administered after irradiation. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) a lipid mediator rescues apoptotically condemned cells. LPA protects IEC‐6 intestinal epithelial cells in vitro and intestinal crypts in vivo from radiation‐induced apoptosis. Using KO mice and cells we established that the LPA2 receptor is required for radiomitigation. Through its C‐terminal PDZ and LIM‐binding motifs LPA2 forms agonist‐dependent macromolecular signaling complexes. LPA2 interacts with the proapoptotic protein Siva‐1 and targets it for proteasomal degradation. Full activation of the NFkB and ERK1/2 prosurvival pathway requires formation of an LPA2, NHERF2, and TRIP‐6 ternary macromolecular complex. These signals inhibit the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Reconstitution of the LPA2 receptor into MEFs derived from LPA1/2 KO mice restores radioprotection. Conditioned medium from irradiated U937 cells induces bystander apoptosis in non‐irradiated IEC‐6 cultures and LPA2‐transfected MEFs. Using in silico drug discovery we found a novel LPA2‐selective agonist GRI977143 that protects cells from radiation‐ and chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis. GRI977143 also increases the survival of mice exposed to lethal levels of radiation. Supported by AI08405.
Inhibition of HIV protease inhibitor‐induced inflammatory response and ER stress by raltegravir in macrophages
Authors: Zhao Renping , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Cao Risheng , Hylemon Phillip B , Pandak William M , Zhang Luyong , Wang Guangji , Zhou Huiping
Published: June 2021

Our previous studies suggest that the HIV protease inhibitor (PI)‐induced ER stress and inflammatory response in macrophages represents an important cellular mechanism of highly active anti‐retroviral therapy (HAART)‐induced dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. Raltegravir is the first member of the newest class of anti‐HIV drugs, HIV integrase inhibitor. Our recent studies indicate that raltegravir has less hepatic toxicity and could prevent HIV PI‐induced dysregulation of lipid metabolism by inhibiting ER stress in hepatocytes. However, whether raltegravir is also able to prevent HIV PI‐induced inflammatory response, ER stress and lipid accumulation in macrophages remains unclear and is the focus of this study.

Methods

J774A.1 mouse macrophages and human THP‐1‐derived macrophages were treated with HIV PIs (lopinavir/ritonavir) with or without raltegravir. The mRNA and protein levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6 were measured by real‐time RT‐PCR and ELISA, respectively. Activation of ER stress was detected by real‐time RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis. Intracellular lipid was detected using oil‐red O staining.

Results

Raltegravir not only significantly inhibited HIV PI‐induced TNF‐α and IL‐6 expression and ER stress activation, but also reduced HIV PI‐induced foaming cell formation.

Conclusions

Incorporation of raltegravir in HAART may reduce HIV PI‐PI‐induced dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.
Androgen Receptor Regulation by Microtubule‐targeting Chemotherapeutics in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Martin Sarah K. , Kyprianou Natasha
Published: June 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the 2nd leading cause of cancer related death in N. American males and progression to androgen independence is associated with patient mortality. Castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is a consequence of lack of apoptotic response to androgen‐ablation therapy (ADT) and chemotherapy, and the most critical therapeutic endpoint for PCa patients is defying this resistance. The basis for therapeutic failure to ADT is androgen independent activation of AR driving uncontrolled tumor growth. Taxane‐based chemotherapy is the only clinically effective treatment for CRPC via stabilization of microtubules resulting in apoptosis. Recent evidence identified the contribution of microtubules to AR signaling and consequences of their inhibition by taxanes on AR activity in PCa. Human PCa tumors exhibited decreased nuclear AR localization after taxol treatment versus untreated. Impairing AR activity enables a targeting platform for taxane‐based chemotherapy during PCa progression and supports a combination strategy toward an improved therapeutic response. AR variants capable of ligand independent signal may be critical in dictating taxane response. Ongoing work pursues the mechanism of taxane resistance driven by distinct AR variant activity in CRPC.

Department of Defense Synergistic Idea Development Award
Spergualin analogs as inhibitors of Hsp70‐CHIP protein‐protein interactions
Authors: Smith Matthew , Assimon Victoria , Evans Christopher G , Carolan James P , Gestwicki Jason E
Published: June 2021

The molecular chaperone, heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), is an essential regulator of protein homeostasis that has roles in both primary folding and clearance of misfolded proteins. Thus, Hsp70 is thought to make triage decisions and direct the fate of its protein substrates. Several studies have suggested that it is the interaction between Hsp70 and a network of co‐chaperone proteins that determines how its substrates are processed. For example, binding of Hsp70 to the E3 ubiquitin ligase, CHIP, is thought to guide Hsp70‐bound substrates to the proteasome. However the mechanism governing this fate decision remains unresolved. We have recently discovered that the natural product, Spergualin, directly antagonizes the protein‐protein interaction between Hsp70 and CHIP. To improve the potency and stability of this promising chemical scaffold, we developed a new, combinatorial synthetic route that facilitates access to spergualin analogs. These efforts have yielded a more stable analog that potently inhibits the Hsp70‐ CHIP interaction. We anticipate that these inhibitors will be useful for probing the roles of the Hsp70‐CHIP complex in directing protein triage in vitro and in vivo.
Aurora B is regulated by dynamic acetylation/deacetylation in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Fadri-Moskwik Maria Theresa Morato , Weiderhold Kim , Chuang Carol , Deeraksa Arpaporn , Pan Jing , Lin Sue-Hwa , Yu-Lee Li-Yuan
Published: June 2021

Protein acetylation has been implicated to play a role during mitosis, but the targets remain to be explored. Aurora B kinase plays a crucial role in mitosis and posttranslational modifications of Aurora B are known to regulate its kinase activity, localization and function. Whether acetylation also regulates Aurora B activity is not known. Using PC3 prostate cancer cells, we found that Aurora B is acetylated in mitosis and undergoes rapid acetylation/deacetylation, with peak deacetylation occurring in prometaphase. We found that HDAC3, a deacetylase that was previously shown by our laboratory to localize to the mitotic spindle and regulate spindle stability, is associated with Aurora B by co‐immunoprecipitation. Knockdown of HDAC3 or inhibiting HDAC3 activity with a small molecule inhibitor apicidin led to a higher level of Aurora B acetylation. Increased Aurora B acetylation is correlated with reduced Aurora B kinase activity that resulted in defects in Aurora B‐dependent mitotic processes, including kinetochore‐microtubule attachment and chromosome congression. Thus, our studies suggest that Aurora B kinase activity and function are regulated by dynamic acetylation/deacetylation in mitotic prostate cancer cells.

Funded by NIH/NIGMS # K12 GM084897 (MFM), D.L. Duncan Cancer Center and Alkek Award for Experimental Therpeutics (Ly YL), PC080847, PC093132(SHL)
Calcium kinetics in an obese adolescent boy on two levels of calcium intake
Authors: Wastney Meryl , Martin Berdine , Peacock Munro , Weaver Connie
Published: June 2021

Obese adolescents retain more calcium (Ca) on higher Ca intakes than normal adolescents, however, the mechanism/s for the increased retention is not known. Ca kinetics was measured in an obese adolescent boy (age, 14.8 y, weight, 149.2 kg, height, 1.77 m, BMI, 47.6) on intakes of 900 and 1500 mg Ca/d. The study consisted of two 21‐d balance periods, 1 wk apart. After 7 d for equilibration the subject was given 44Ca with breakfast and 1 hr later, 43Ca IV. Blood was sampled over the next 14 d and all urine and feces were collected. Samples were analyzed for stable isotope enrichment by ICP‐MS. Data were analyzed using WinSAAM and a compartmental model. The model fits tracer data from the two studies simultaneously with only two fractional transfers differing between studies: absorption from diet and endogenous excretion. On 1500 mg Ca/d vs. 900 mg/d, Ca absorption was higher (912 vs 652 mg/d) and endogenous excretion was lower (147 vs 316 mg/d). Rates of bone deposition and urinary Ca excretion did not differ. The subject retained 430 mg/d more Ca on the high Ca intake (630 vs 200 mg/d) due to higher rate of absorption, lower endogenous excretion and lower bone resorption (3170 vs 3600 mg/d). In conclusion, the mechanism for higher Ca retention with larger Ca intakes in morbidly obese subjects includes reduced endogenous Ca excretion in addition to higher rate of Ca absorption. Funded by NICHD RO1 HD 061908.
Effects of oral caffeine and capsaicin administration on energy expenditure and energy substrates utilization in resting rats
Authors: Kim Jisu , Jeon Yerim , Hwang Hyejung , Suh Heajung , Lim Kiwon
Published: June 2021

It is well‐known that caffeine and capsaicin increase resting energy metabolism. However, the most measurements have been conducted in short‐term studies. Therefore, we investigated the effects of caffeine and capsaicin on energy expenditure and energy substrate utilization in resting rats for 6 h. The caffeine (Experiment 1) experiment included four male rats aged 5 weeks and measured the effects of oral administration of caffeine (10 or 50 mg/kg) on respiratory gas, energy expenditure, and energy substrate oxidation for 6 h. Experiment 2 included four male rats aged 6 weeks to measure the effects of capsaicin (10 mg/kg) using the same method as in Experiment 1. The results of Experiment 1 indicated that O2 uptake and carbohydrate oxidation after caffeine administration for 2 h was higher in the 10 mg trial than that in the 50 mg or placebo trials (P<0.05). However fat oxidation was not significantly different. In contrast, capsaicin (Experiment 2) observed no differences between the placebo and the capsaicin trials. In conclusion, caffeine initially increased the resting energy consumption for 2 h, and this energy expenditure was due to carbohydrate oxidation. Capsaicin did not change oxygen uptake, respiratory exchange ratio, fat oxidation, or carbohydrate oxidation. This study was supported by a Korean Research Foundation Grant funded by the Korean Government (MOEHRD) (KRF‐2009‐32A‐G00058).
HEAD OF A SQUALE (PRIONACE GLAUCA): SERIATED CT‐SCAN
Authors: Le Floch-Prigent Patrice Pierre , VERDEILLE Stéphane
Published: June 2021

The head of a squale (Prionace glauca) from Oléron island was well preserved by freezing after fishing. It was CT‐scan in the frontal plane with joint thin slices by a Somaton sensitive Siemens (64 elements) CT‐scan. The horizontal and sagittal plane slices were reconstructed from the frontal ones. The results were tremendous not only for the teeth but mainly for the nervous apparatus; they are discussed.
Effects of Herb Extract Supplemantations on ¥á‐glucosidase Activities
Authors: Kim Kyoungkon , Lee Jaesung , Heo Jeongwon , Baek Jongmi , Kim Taehyuk , Kim Daejung , Kim Taewoo , Choe Myeon
Published: June 2021

Insulin resistance, characterized by reduced responsiveness to normal concentrations of insulin, is a common feature for most patients with type‐II‐diabetes mellitus. Recently, many anti‐hyperglycemic drugs have been developed, but the side effects are reported from most of those with long‐term use. Therefore, there has been a growing interest in alternative therapeutic use of herbal plants for diabetes mellitus. Increased α‐glucosidase activity is well known as a hyperglycemic factor. Therefore, we have studied the inhibitory effects of herb water extracts on α‐glucosidase.
Green tea extract (GTE) decreases the lymphatic absorption of dioxin in rats
Authors: Noh Sang K , Kim Juyeon , Koo Sung I
Published: June 2021

Previously, we have shown that GTE markedly lowers the intestinal absorption of cholesterol and fat soluble compounds. Doixin is a lipophilic food contaminant. This study was conducted to examine whether enteral infusion of GTE would affect the lymphatic absorption of 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) in rats. Male rats with lymph cannulae were infused at 3.0 mL/h for 8 h via a duodenal catheter with a lipid emulsion containing TCDD labeled with 3H (3H‐TCDD), 10 pg TCDD, 452 μmol triolein, 20.7 μmol cholesterol, and 3.1 μmol α‐tocopherol, and 396.0 μmol Na‐taurocholate without (control) or with 76.0 mg GTE in PBS buffer (pH, 6.4). Lymph was collected hourly for 8 h. No significant difference was noted in lymph flow (19.1 ± 6.0 mL in GTE‐infused vs. 20.8 ± 4.7 mL in control rats). However, the infusion of GTE markedly lowered the lymphatic absorption of 3H‐TCDD (18.0 ± 2.9% dose/8 h) compared with controls infused with the lipid emulsion alone (23.0 ± 1.7%). The results indicate that GTE has a profound inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of dioxin in rats. The mechanism(s) by which GTE decreases dioxin absorption remains to be elucidated.

Supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2011‐0003818).
Increased ketone body flux into GABA in ketotic rat brain
Authors: ZHANG YIFAN , Kuang Youzhi , LaManna Joseph C , Puchowicz Michelle A
Published: June 2021

We had previously reported a decrease of glucose oxidation which was replaced by an increase of ketone body oxidation in ketotic rat brain. The metabolic effect of ketosis on the TCA cycle flux remains to be explored. GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain, is balanced by the supply of carbons from the TCA cycle. We investigated the carbon flux of ketones and glucose into GABA with ketosis.

Method

Tracer infusions of [U‐13C]acetoacetate or [U‐13C]glucose were used to measure 13C‐label incorporation into GABA and related intermediates in cortex of diet‐induced ketotic rats. GC‐MS and stable isoptopomer analysis was applied.

Results

13C‐label percent enrichment from ketone bodies was increased in GABA, glutamate, glumatine, succinate and citrate (1.6 ±0.2, 4.1±0.5, 3.5±0.3, 4.4±1.0, and 3.3±1.5%, respectively; p<0.01) with ketosis compared to non‐ketotic rats. The data show ketosis increases ketone body flux towards GABA which is supplied by the TCA cycle, suggesting a possible mechanism of neuroprotection.
Clinical Trial of Dried Cranberry Consumption to Reduce Urinary Tract Infection Incidence in Susceptible Women
Authors: Burleigh Alexandra Elizabeth , Benck Susan M. , McAchran Sarah E , Reed Jess D , Krueger Christian G , Khoo Christina , Hopkins Walter J
Published: June 2021

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur in up to ten percent of women and are a significant source of patient morbidity and health care costs. A variety of cranberry products have been used for UTI prevention, but no previous studies have examined whether consumption of dried cranberries will decrease the incidence of UTIs in susceptible patients. We conducted a clinical trial in which 20 women with a history of recurrent UTIs consumed one serving of sweetened, dried cranberries daily for two weeks. Patients reported the dates of UTIs in the six‐month periods pre‐and post‐treatment. The efficacy of dried cranberry consumption in reducing UTI occurrence was determined by comparing pre‐and post‐treatment infection rates. Of the 17 patients who completed the study, nine (53%) did not experience any UTIs within six months after treatment, and the UTI rate per six months decreased significantly from 2.8 to 1.2 (p=0.005). Kaplan‐Meier analysis compared the incidence of UTIs in study patients to patients receiving placebo in a previous UTI vaccine trial. Women in the two trials had equivalent UTI histories. This analysis showed a significant reduction in the number of UTIs in the six months post‐treatment (p=0.02). Based on these two clinical evaluations, there appears to be a beneficial effect to consuming dried cranberries in reducing recurrent UTIs in susceptible women.

Supported by Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc
Iron absorption from fortified oat drinks
Authors: Trinidad Trinidad Palad , Kurilich Anne C , Mallillin Aida C , Walcyzk Thomas , Sagum Rosario S , Singh Nadia Nur , Yashna Harjani , de Leon Marco P. , Capanzana Mario V , Fletcher John
Published: June 2021

Prevalence of anemia is 19.5% in the Filipino population. The objective was to determine iron bioavailability from oat drinks fortified with iron, zinc, and vitamin A with/without vitamin C. The study followed a double blind randomized cross‐over design. Nineteen healthy 6‐year old children participated. Children consumed 2 drinks fortified with iron, zinc, and vitamin A labeled with stable isotopes of iron as NaFeEDTA; drink A without and drink B with vitamin C. On 2 consecutive days, participants were given drink A (57Fe) or drink B (58Fe) in random order. Blood samples were taken for stable isotope measurements 14 days later. Results indicated no significant differences in nutrient composition (except vitamin C), dietary fiber or total phytic acid content between the two drinks. The percent fractional iron absorption (7.14±0.90) from the oat drink with vitamin C was significantly higher than that from the oat drink without vitamin C (5.65±0.54; P<0.05). In conclusion, results showed that vitamin C added to NaFeEDTA fortified oats enhanced iron absorption. Fortifying oats may offer a convenient, and effective mechanism to improve the iron status of children.
Dietary pattern classifications and the association with general obesity and abdominal obesity in Korean women
Authors: Jung InKyung , Kim Jung-Hyun , Lee Ji-Eun
Published: June 2021

This study was performed to identify dietary patterns and determine relationships between obesity and dietary patterns in Korean women. Using baseline data from the Korean Health and Genome Study, dietary patterns were identified using factor analysis of data from a validated food frequency questionnaire, and relationships between dietary patterns and obesity were analyzed. Four dietary patterns were identified: the animal food (greater intake of meats, and fish), the rice‐vegetable (greater intake of steamed rice, and vegetable), the bread‐dairy (greater intake of bread, milk, and dairy products), and the noodle (greater intake of noodles). In Korean women, dietary patterns were related to abdominal obesity but not obesity. The rice‐vegetable and noodle dietary pattern, depended energy intake on carbohydrate over 70%, increased the risk of abdominal obesity. However, the bread‐dairy dietary patterns had negative relationship with abdominal obesity. In this study, we identified four unique dietary patterns in Korean women that were independently associated with abdominal obesity. Since carbohydrate dependent dietary could increase the risk of abdominal obesity, we suggested that for Korean women, energy‐yield nutrients, carbohydrate, protein and fat, should be well‐balanced as recommended to reduce the abdominal obesity.
Collagen Isolated from Masou Salmon Increased Antioxidative and Whitening Activities
Authors: Kim Kyoungkon , Lee Jaesung , Heo Jeongwon , Baek Jongmi , Kim Taehyuk , Kim Daejung , Kim Taewoo , Choe Myeon
Published: June 2021

Collagen is a well known protein found in animal muscle and skin, especially in connective tissue. This study was performed to assess the antioxidaive and whitening effects of collagen isolated from masou salmon(Oncorhynchusmasou) in vitro. The collagen isolated from masou salmon skin and meat by enzymatic hydrolysis. Inhibitory effects of collagen peptide to free radical generation were determined by measuring DPPH, TBARS and hydroxyl radical scavenginga ctivities.
Migration, agribusiness and nutritional status of under five children in northwest Mexico
Authors: Ortega Maria Isabel , Rosales Cecilia , de Zapien Jill Guernsey , Aranda Patricia , Castañeda Alejandro , Saucedo Socorro , Montaño Cecilia Adriana , Contreras Alma Delia
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to examine the nutritional status of under five children from Mexican migrant workers families within the context of global food markets. The sample included 404 children less than five years old coming from farms and agricultural communities at northwest Mexico. Prevalence of stunting and underweight of children appeared very similar to that for indigenous children from the national sample survey (difference 0.9 and 1.6 percentage points, respectively). Compared to the national sample of Mexican children, stunting and underweight seemed higher in migrant children (difference 17.7 and 4.5 percentage points, respectively), but wasting, an indicator of both chronic and acute undernutrition, appeared to indicate a process of nutritional recuperation. Migrant children living in poverty and suffering from chronic untdernutrition, poor performance and scarce education opportunities, will become agricultural workers with low productivity and poor general health. Consumer's demands on social and environmental standards of fresh food production in developed countries are an opportunity to impact lives of migrant agricultural workers, their families and communities
Comparison of prevalence of inadequate nutrient intake based on body weight status of adults in the US: An analysis of NHANES 2001–2008
Authors: Fulgoni Victor L , Reider Carroll , Brooks James R
Published: June 2021

Using total nutrient intake (foods and supplements) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2008, we determined usual intake for vitamins A, C, D, E, B6, folate and Ca, Mg, and Zn using the National Cancer Institute methodology in adults (n=18,995). Only subjects with reliable dietary records were included and pregnant and lactating females were excluded. Subjects were categorized by body weight status as either normal weight (< 25 BMI), overweight (≥ 25 BMI < 30), or obese (≥ 30 BMI). Normal weight subjects had lower (p <0.01) levels of inadequate intake as compared to those overweight or obese for vitamin A (33.3 ± 1.4 vs 45.3 ± 2.3 vs 54.5 ± 2.7), D (77.4 ± 1.2 vs 84.0 ± 1.5, vs 87.8 ± 1.6), E (72.8 ± 1.1 vs 80.3 ± 1.1 vs 84.4 ± 2.0), Ca (55.7 ± 1.4 vs 65.9 ± 2.4 vs 68.5 ± 3.0), and Mg (50.7 ± 1.2 vs 62.7 ± 2.3 vs 72.1 ± 2.3). Obese subjects had higher inadequacy as compared to those overweight for vitamin A, Mg and Fe. We conclude that while large percentages of US adults have inadequate intake of vitamins A, C, D, E and Ca and Mg, body weight status influences inadequate intake in US adults with overweight and obese adults having even greater inadequacy for many of these nutrients. (Supported by Pharmavite, LLC.)
Acai Extract Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Finn Amy Marie , Wilson Ted
Published: June 2021

Acai is a dark blue tropical berry that is rich in phenolics and has antioxidant properties, with potential human health benefits. Acai is often consumed in the form of pill supplements that presumably reflect the properties of the original fruit. This study compared the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of five different commercially available products: Acai RX, Watts Power, Fruitrients X, NOW, and Solaray. Extract solutions were prepared by dissolving 200 mg of each pill in water, phenolic concentration was expressed as Gallic acid equivalents (GAE) at 34.5 ± 4.06, 52.26 ± 0.70, 70.2 ± 0.95, 938 ± 0.80, and 30.0 ± 1.04 mg GAE/ml respectively. Ability of 1:100 dilutions of extracts to inhibit Cu++‐mediated oxidation of low density lipoprotein was evaluated with a TBARS assay after a 90 min incubation. TBARS in the absence of acai was 0.05 ± 0.01, and TBARS in the presence of acai (1:10) was 0.29 ± 0.01, 0.40 ± 0.01, 0.48 ± 0.01, 0.03 ± 0.01, and 0.21 ± 0.01 ng MDA/ml respectively. LDL oxidized in the absence of acai had a 33.46 minute lag‐time (A234 nm), lag‐times were 77‐, 77‐, 65‐, 180‐ and 74.35‐minutes, in the presence of a 1:10 dilution of these acai extracts respectively. R‐squared values for lag‐time verse TBARS, lag‐time verse GAE, and TBARS vs. GAE and were 0.91, 0.75 and 0.95 respectively. The potential health benefits of commercially available acai supplements are probably related to the phenolic content.
Dietary exposure of lead, cadmium and mercury in Korean adults
Authors: Kwon Sung Ok , Hwang Hyojeong , An Hyojin , Oh Seyoung
Published: June 2021

Diet has been suggested as a major contributor of heavy metals, yet related studies are limited for Koreans. This study estimated the dietary exposure of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) using data collected from ≈ 2000 Korean adults. We collected dietary intake by 2‐d recalls and semi quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Using the intake data, usual exposure levels of heavy metals were calculated by the multiple‐source method (MSM). Respective mean usual dietary exposure levels were 0.12, 0.17, and 0.07 ug/kg bw/d for Pb, Cd, and Hg. FFQ data showed higher levels of heavy metals (0.16, 0.21, 0.10 ug/kg bw/d for Pb, Cd, Hg, respectively) than the usual intake values. Major food groups contributing to the levels of heavy metals were vegetables (23.4–25.5% for Pb, 15.3–16.4% for Cd, and 8.3–10.2% for Hg), cereals (36.7–40.1% for Cd and 21.2–26.3% for Hg) and fishes and shellfishes (17.3–19.6% for Pb, 18.1–22.0% for Cd, 37.4–48.4% for Hg). These values corresponded to 3.4–4.5%, 18–21%, and 9.8–14% of the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWI) for Pb, Cd, and Hg, respectively. Proportions of adults with the levels greater than PTWI were < 1% for all heavy metals. These findings suggest that diet exposure of Pb is low, yet that of Cd and Hg needs further attention for Korean adults. (Supported by grant No. S‐12‐04‐2‐PMP‐994‐0‐F from the Korea Food & Drug Administration)
Sound and vibration recordings during normal motion and spinal manipulation
Authors: Cramer Gregory D , Bora Preetam , Ross Kim , Selby Scott
Published: June 2021

Novel methods assessed and localized zygapophyseal (Z) joint audible sounds (crepitus and cavitations) during normal lumbar motion and side‐posture spinal manipulation (SMT).

Methods

Five healthy subjects ages 21–65 years had 9 accelerometers and one specialized directional microphone (with modifications) applied to their lumbar region in a previously developed pattern that allowed specific localization of joint sounds. Each subject underwent full lumbar ranges of motion (ROM), lumbar SMT (left side = up‐side), and repeated full ROM; all while recordings were made from the accelerometers and microphone. Accelerometer and microphone data were assessed for cavitations and crepitus.

Results

Vibration and acoustic methods were successfully implemented and provided complementary information that identified cavitations, crepitus, and verified artifacts. Ten cavitations and 1 crepitus were recorded from 7 joints (all left side). Three instances of multiple joint cavitations were identified [2 from 2 joints (L L1/L2 and L L3/L4) and 3 from 1 joint (L L1/L2)]. Some recordings identified a cavitation when inaudible to subject and clinician.

Conclusions

Accelerometers and microphone provided unique and complementary information. Assessing accelerometer and acoustic data could help deepen understanding of spinal mechanics and SMT. Funding: NIH/NCCAM Grant # 3R01AT000123‐06S2.
Raisin Polyphenols and their Bioavailability in Humans
Authors: Murphy Damon
Published: June 2021

The polyphenol composition of raisins is not as established as it is for grapes and white wine. It was only when a raisin powder was produced through a novel extraction method that a high extraction efficiency was observed (78 ± 6.7% – 125 ± 5% recovery). Caftaric acid was seen at comparable levels to those in the literature (31.24 μg per g of raisin) whilst rutin, protocatechuic acid, epicatechin and catechin were all seen at levels lower than reported. Grapes and non‐alcoholic white wine were seen to have higher levels of detection compared to raisins for the majority of polyphenols investigated. A cross‐over intervention study (n=9) involving 100 g raisins, 400 g grapes and 300 ml non‐alcoholic white wine showed that raisins (p = 0.002) and grapes (p = 0.005) resulted in a significantly higher detection of dihydroferulic acid (DHFA) in the urine compared to non‐alcoholic white wine. The interventions did not produce significantly different levels of detection for the other metabolites detected. Raisins were seen to have the highest bioavailability of caffeic and ferulic acid (0.006 & 0.23 %) compared to grapes (0.006 & 0.003 %) and non‐alcoholic white wine (0.0001 & 0.08 %). The funding for this research was provided by Sun‐Maid Growers of California.
Cooked rice as dietary carbohydrate has anti‐obesity effect through down‐regulating lipogenic gene expression in high fat diet fed mice
Authors: Choi Won-Hee , Ahn Ji-Yun , Jung Chang-Hwa , Jeon Tae-Il , Kim Hyun-Ku , Ha Tae-Youl
Published: June 2021

This study was investigated whether cooked rice as dietary carbohydrate source has anti‐obesity effect in mice fed a high‐fat and cholesterol diet. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups and fed either a normal diet (N) or a high‐fat (15%, w/w) and cholesterol diet (0.5%, w/w) with corn starch and sucrose (C) as a carbohydrate source, white wheat bread (B) or cooked rice (R) for 12 weeks. Cooked rice consumption significantly reduced weight gain and weight of adipose tissue compared to the corn starch or white bread consumption as a carbohydrate. Not only hepatic TG, but TC lecles in the serum and liver were significantly lower in the R group than in the C group, as were the levels of serum insulin, leptin and glucose. The expressions of hepatic lipogenic genes (SREBP‐1, SCD‐1, FAS, CD36, PPAR‐¥ã), HMGCR and ACAT1 were down regulated, but the expressions of ABCA1, ApoA1 and CYP8B1 were up‐regulated by cooked rice consumption as revealed in qRT‐PCR analysis. These results suggest that intake of cooked rice has anti‐obesity effect, passively due to inhibition of lipogenesis.
Patterns of hepatic Nrf2 and antioxidant enzyme alterations in rats subjected to autologous orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Guo Na , Wang Yanling , Hei Ziqing , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: June 2021

Increases in reactive oxygen species and the subsequent oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathogenesis of hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI). Nrf2 is a transcription factor that induces the expression of various genes including those that encode antioxidant enzymes. Up‐regulation of Nrf2 has been shown to attenuate hepatic IRI. However, the patterns of changes of Nrf2 and antioxidant capacity during liver transplantation and their impact on post‐ischemic liver injury remain unknown. We found that autologous orthotopic liver transplantation (AOLT) resulted in severe liver injury in rats manifested as significant elevations in liver pathological scores as early as 4 hours after AOLT and peaked at 8 hours after AOLT that was coincident with 1.6 to 2‐fold increases of O2• and •OH production and lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and significant decreases (~30%) in antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase and catalase and a dramatic (~70%) decrease in total oxidant scavenging capacity (all P<0.01 vs. baseline). The liver injury score was positively correlated to MDA content (P<0.01). Significant increase in liver Nrf2 expression was not seen until 8 hours after AOLT. It is concluded that delayed up‐regulation of Nrf2 during AOLT is not sufficient to withstand oxidative stress‐mediated liver injury.

Supported by Guangzhou technological planning project (No. 2011J4300056).
Statin and chemotherapeutic drug combination therapy of an aggressive natural killer cell leukemia
Authors: Henslee Austin Bryce , Steele Timothy A.
Published: June 2021

Aggressive natural killer cell leukemia is an acute, neoplastic proliferation of natural killer (NK) cells resulting in a systemic, progressive disease with a poor prognosis. Establishing an effective standard treatment plan with chemotherapeutic drugs for this disease has had limited success and requires new treatment strategies. Previous studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that statin drugs inhibit the proliferation, cytotoxicity, and MAPK signal transduction pathway of the YT‐INDY cell line, which was derived from a patient with NK cell leukemia. This research examines the inhibitory effects of statin drugs combined with chemotherapeutic agents on NK cell proliferation in the YT‐INDY cell line. At sub‐therapeutic levels, the anticancer agents doxorubicin, taxol, teniposide or topotecan in combination with atorvastatin, fluvastatin, or simvastatin showed an enhanced inhibition of YT‐INDY cell proliferation compared to either drug alone. Doxorubicin (1 nM), atorvastatin (10μM), and these drugs in combination inhibited YT‐INDY proliferation by 23%, 22%, and 47% respectively. Taxol (1nM), fluvastatin (10μM), and the combination of drugs inhibit cell proliferation by 41%, 38% and 73% respectively. This study provides promising data that may be used to improve the treatment of aggressive NK cell leukemia.
Localization of laminin relative to alpha 1 integrin in embryonic chick skeletal muscle
Authors: Shareef Jameel , Mattioli Patrisia , DiLullo Camille
Published: June 2021

The spatial and temporal localization of laminin in relation to alpha 1 integrin is examined in chick skeletal muscle. Periodic co‐localization of alpha 1 integrin and laminin have previously been observed on myofibers in cultured embryonic chick skeletal muscle as early as day 3 in culture. Similar to the spatial localization found in cultured skeletal muscle, alpha 1 integrin is found with a periodic sarcomeric distribution in sectioned skeletal muscle from chick embryos beginning on embryonic day 13. Between embryonic days 18 and 19, the sarcomeric periodicity of alpha 1 integrin begins to decrease. To determine whether the temporal and spatial periodicity of laminin relative to alpha 1 integrin that is detected In Vitro in embryonic skeletal muscle is also detected In Vivo, gastrocnemius muscle was excised from chicks on embryonic days 14–19. The skeletal muscle was fresh frozen, sectioned and immunofluorescently labeled with anti‐laminin antibodies. Initial observations indicate that laminin is detected with only a punctate distribution at all embryonic days examined. A periodic distribution of laminin is not observed.
Red Ginseng Extract Ameriolates CCl4‐induced Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Cho Je , Ki Sung Hwan , Kim Young Woo
Published: June 2021

Korean Red Ginseng, the processed root of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, has been frequently used for various therapeutic purposes in oriental medicine and is now widely used around the world. The present study investigated the possible preventive effect of Red Ginseng Extract (RGE) for the treatment of liver fibrosis. We injected mice with multiple doses of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 4 weeks and then used the animal to explore whether RGE treatment therapeutically improved liver functions and resolved fibers accumulated in the liver. Multiple CCl4 injections caused the elevated levels of ALT, AST and collagen accumulation. In contrast, concomitant treatment with RGE (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) significantly reduced them in a dose‐dependent manner. In histopathological analysis, RGE treatment decreased the percentages of degenerative regions, numbers of degenerative hepatocytes and collagen deposited percentages in hepatic parenchyma. In addition, RGE inhibited the mRNA level of transforming growth factor β1, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 genes in fibrogenic liver. Moreover, RGE dose‐dependently reduced the number of α smooth muscle actin‐positive cells in liver tissue. Taken together, these results demonstrate that RGE can protect the CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis, partly via hepatic stellate cell inactivation.
Swimming training improves the vasodilator response in coronary arteries of ovariectomized rats
Authors: Abreu Glaucia Rodrigues , Claudio Erick , Endlich Patrick , Moyses Margareth , Santos Luciana , Bissoli Nazare , Bonates Paulo , Silva J F , Lemos Virginia
Published: June 2021

Objective

To investigate the participation of antioxidant and endothelial system on the coronary vasodilator response of trained and ovariectomized rats.

Methods

Wistar rats were divided in groups: Sham (SHAM), ovariectomized (OVX), ovariectomized training (OVXT). The response vasodilator was tested with BK and correlated with the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD‐1,SOD‐2), catalase (CAT) and eNOS isoforms in coronary vessels.

Results

The drop in coronary pressure after BK was higher in OVXT than SHAM and OVX (17,0±1,4; 8,9±1,4 and 7,2±1,4 mmHg, p <0.05). The expression of SOD‐1A also was higher in the OVXT when compared to SHAM and OVX (1,01; 0,6 and 0,4, p <0.05), whereas SOD‐2 concentrations did not showed differences.. The CAT was significantly higher only in OVXT when compared to SHAM and OVX (1,7; 1,3 and 1,08, p <0.05). The training increase the eNOS in OVXT when compared to SHAM and OVX (0,98; 0,72; and 0,87;p <0.05).

Conclusion

The swimming training preserves the vasodilator response to BK in the coronary vascular bed ovariectomized rats probably to increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide and the local antioxidant system. Support: CNPq
Characterization of Brainstem Phenylethanolamine N‐methyltransferase Gene Expression in Fetal Programming of Hypertension
Authors: Grandbois Julie , Lo Suet , Nguyen Phong , Khurana Sandhya , Venkataraman Krishnan , Eibl Joe , Meltz Leah , Michael Paul , Tai T.C.
Published: June 2021

An unfavourable fetal environment results in low birth weight offsprings and the development of hypertension later in life. This concept of fetal programming proposes that elevated levels of glucocorticoids during fetal development leads to alterations in blood pressure regulatory mechanisms. Adrenaline, a neurotransmitter synthesized by the enzyme phenylethanolamine N‐methyltransferase (PNMT), is involved in the sympathetic control of blood pressure and is elevated in hypertensive patients. Dysregulation of the PNMT gene has been linked to the pathogenesis of hypertension and is therefore a candidate gene involved in fetal programming of hypertension. Results from this study show that Wistar Kyoto rats exposed to dexamethasone (DEX: 10, 50 or 100 μg/kg/day) in the third trimester, developed elevated blood pressure as adults. The elevations in arterial blood pressures correlate with the increased dose of prenatal DEX exposure. In addition, PNMT mRNA in the C1, C2 and C3 adrenergic brainstem regions were elevated in prenatally DEX exposed adult rats. Analysis of transcriptional regulators of the PNMT gene shows a dose‐dependent upregulation in the mRNA for Sp1, EGR‐1 and AP2 in the C2 and C3 regions; whereas GR mRNA was increased in the C3 region only. These results suggest that prenatal glucocorticoid exposure increases brainstem PNMT gene expression via altered transcriptional regulatory mechanisms.
Early cardiovascular remodeling in the offspring of rats exposed to undernutrition during pregnancy
Authors: Gonzalez M. Carmen , Condezo-Hoyos Luis , España-Caparros Gabriel , López de Pablo Angel L. , Prachaney Parichat , Velazquez-Gauna Sergio , Guzmán Santos , Elizondo-Omaña Rodrigo E. , Montero Pilar , Lopez M. Rosario , Arribas Silvia M.
Published: June 2021

AIM

To assess if undernutrition during pregnancy induces early structural cardiovascular alterations in the offspring.

METHODS

Rats were fed ad libitum with standard chow throughout gestation (control; C) or restricted to 50% the last 10 days of gestation (restricted; R) and offspring was weighted at birth. In 6‐day old rats, body and heart weights were measured. Hearts were frozen in liquid N2 to quantify collagen content (Sircol Kit) or fixed and paraffine‐embedded to assess collagen distribution (sirius red staining). Carotid arteries were mounted on a pressure myograph to measure geometrical parameters.

RESULTS

R pups had smaller birth weight (5.25±0.21g; n=24) compared to C (6.44±0.14 g, n=21; p<0.05). This difference was maintained in 6‐day old rats (R=10.6±0.25 g; C=12.23±0.28g, p<0.05) together with heart hypertrophy (R=0.007±0.0002; C=0.006±0.0001 heart weight/body weight; n=10; p<0.05) and increased heart collagen content located in the interstitium. Carotid arteries from R pups showed a significant reduction of internal and external diameters.

CONCLUSION

Maternal undernutrition is associated with early cardiovascular remodeling which might predispose to increase blood pressure later in life.
The induction of salt‐sensitiive hypertension (HTN) in rats by sensitizing pre‐treatments with either angiotensin II (ANG II) or aldosterone (ALDO)
Authors: Clayton Sarah C. , Xue Baojian , Zhang Zhongming , Johnson Alan Kim
Published: June 2021

Some humans and some rodent strains show increased sensitivity to the pressor effects of dietary NaCl (salt‐sensitive‐HTN). In this study, we used an Induction‐Delay‐Expression (I‐D‐E) procedure to determine if salt‐sensitive HTN can be produced by prior treatments with non‐pressor, systemic doses of either ANG II or ALDO. Male rats were instrumented to record blood pressure (BP) by telemetry. During induction (I), vehicle (control) or low doses of either ANG II or ALDO were delivered sc by mini‐pump for 1 week. Rats were then rested for 1 week (D) to ensure metabolism of the exogenous ANG II or ALDO. No differences in BP were detected during I and D. During E, which began after D, rats were given 2% saline as their sole drinking fluid. After 5 days, rats treated during I with either ANG II or ALDO had significantly higher BP than controls (approx. 10 mmHg higher than control), despite similar daily 2% saline intakes by all 3 groups. The BP remained elevated in the animals treated with ANG II or ALDO during I until the 2% saline was replaced with water. BP then returned to baseline and was comparable to that of control rats. These data demonstrate that prior exposure to low, non‐pressor doses of either ANG II or ALDO sensitizes the pressor response to ingested saline. These results provide important insights into the etiology of salt‐sensitive HTN. (Support: HL‐14388, HL‐62261, and MH‐80241)