bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Curves® fitness & weight loss program on body composition & resting energy expenditure
Authors: Culbertson J , Byrd M , Cooke M , Kirksick C , Campbell B , Wilborn C , Galbreath M , Li R , Ferreira M , Nassar E , Harvey T , Parker A , Courtney T , Dove J , Beavers K , Serra M , Jitomir J , Moreillon J , Simbo S , Chandran R , Hudson G , Cecelia C , Deike E , Iosia M , Rasmussen C , Greenwood M , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

693 sedentary women (47±12 yrs, 163±7 cm; 92±17 kg; 45±4% body fat) were assigned to a control group (C), an exercise group (E); or, a high carbohydrate or a high protein diet group for 10‐weeks. Diets consisted of 1,200 kcal/d for 1‐wk and 1,600 kcal/d for 9 wks. Diets were 55% CHO, 15% P, and 30% F (HC) or 7‐15% CHO, 55‐63% P, and 30% F (HP). Subjects in the exercise groups participated in a supervised Curves fitness program 3‐d per wk. DEXA body composition and REE measurements were obtained at 0 & 10 wks and were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA. Data are presented as means ± SD changes from baseline for the C, E, HC, and HP groups, respectively. Subjects who dieted experienced a significantly greater (p<0.001) loss in scanned total mass (‐0.4±2.2; ‐0.4±2.1; ‐2.9±3.6; ‐3.8±4.0 kg), fat mass (‐0.4±2.0; ‐0.7±1.8; ‐2.3±2.8; ‐3.0±3.3 kg), and body fat (‐0.3±1.9; ‐0.7±1.6; ‐1.3±2.1; ‐1.6±2.9 %). Weight loss and fat loss in the HP group was significantly greater than the HC group although changes in percent body fat were not significantly different. REE decreased slightly in the HC, HP, and C groups while increasing in the E group (‐0.6±2.1; 0.3±2.0; ‐0.4±2.1; ‐0.7±2.5 kcal/kg/d). Results indicate that the Curves program is effective to promote weight loss without marked reductions in REE particularly when following a HP diet.
Effects of the Curves® fitness & weight loss program on markers of health & fitness
Authors: Moreillon J , Culbertson J , Byrd M , Wismann J , Galbreath M , Wilborn C , Taylor L , Campbell B , Nassar E , Dove J , Harvey T , Kerksick C , La Bounty P , Parker A , Ferreira M , Cooke M , Iosia M , Chandran R , Beavers K , Serra M , Jitomir J , Curts C , Deike E , Hudson G , Buford T , Shelmadine B , Rasmussen C , Greenwood M , Willoughby D , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

633 sedentary women (47±11 yrs, 163±7 cm; 92±18kg; 45±4 body fat) were assigned to a control group (C), an exercise group (E); or, a high carbohydrate or a high protein diet group for 10‐weeks. Diets consisted of 1,200 kcal/d for 1‐wk and 1,600 kcal/d for 9 wks. Diets were 55% CHO, 15% P, and 30% F (HC) or 7‐15% CHO, 55‐63% P, and 30% F (HP). Subjects participated in the Curves fitness program 3‐d per wk. At 0 & 10‐wks, subjects donated fasting blood samples and had measurements determined. Data are presented as means ± SD from baseline at 10‐wks for the E, HC, and HP groups, respectively. Significant time and/or group x time effects (n=548) were observed in changes in total cholesterol (‐0.0±20; ‐1.8±18; ‐3.5±15 %), LDL‐c (‐1.4±22; ‐2.0±21; ‐3.2±21 %), HDL‐c c (0.9±10; ‐1.7±11; ‐2.2±8 %), and triglycerides (11±41; ‐6.2±34; 3.0±39 %). No differences were observed in glucose (0.3±20; 0.2±15; ‐1.6±17 %) or cholesterol:HDL ratio (‐0.6±13; 3.1±20; 1.7±17 %). Waist(‐1.2±5; ‐2.7±7; ‐3.2±7 %) and hip (‐0.1±5; ‐2.5±4; ‐2.4±5 %) measurements decreased with diet groups experiencing greater effects (n=586). Resting HR (‐3.3±13; ‐3.7±14; ‐2.9±15 %), SBP (‐0.4±13; ‐2.2±12; ‐1.9±12 %), and DBP (‐0.8±13; ‐2.8±12; ‐0.8±13 %) decreased in all groups (n=633). Bench press (10.5±17; 8.4±18; 7.4±15 %), leg press (10.4±20; 10.3±18; 10.3±20 %), and aerobic capacity (14.8±95; 7.9±15; 12.8±50 %) were increased in all groups (n=490).
The influence of current diet on the effectiveness of nutrition education for elderly in rural area
Authors: Moon Hyun‐Kyung , Kim Jeung‐Eun
Published: June 2021

Recently, promoting nutrition education(NE) is being emphasized. It is known that many factors influence on the effectiveness of NE. In this study, whether current diet has influences on the effectiveness of education for nutritional knowledge and attitude in elderly is studied.

NE was carried out for 76 elderly in rural area. Nutrition knowledge and attitude were measured using scoring system before and after the NE group session. Comparing before and after the score, they are classified as positive group(P), those improved their score and negative group(N), those kept or dropped their score. Forty three were classified as P. Thirty three were classified as N. Two groups were analyzed.

Two groups had no statistical differences on sex, age, and education level, and anthropometry and lipid profile. (P<0.05) For the nutrient intake, overall N had higher intake. Sodium, potassium, and vitamin C showed statistical significance. (P<0.05) For NAR, vitamin A was higher in N than P, and calcium was higher in P than N. (P<0.05) There was no significant difference in MAR. For the food group intake, fruit and their product showed two fold higher in N than P. Other food group showed no significant differences.

Current diet did show some influences for the effectiveness of NE in this study group. Because it is necessary to study current diet for NE, we should make use these data especially for the group education.
Partnering with Alaskan communities to examine health benefits of traditional wild berries
Authors: Kellogg Joshua J , Yousef Gad G , Grace Mary H , Flint Courntey , Raskin Ilya , Lila Mary Ann
Published: June 2021

Wild indigenous berries including Vaccinium uliginosum, V. ovalifolium, Empetrum nigrum, Rubus chamaemorus, and R. spectabilis, traditional subsistence foods in American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/AN) populations, are a rich source of anthocyanins (AC) and proanthocyanidins (PAC), with known efficacy against metabolic disorders. In recent years, AI/AN communities have exhibited disproportionately high rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus; over twice the national average. Wild berries were tested using "Screens‐to‐Nature" (STN), a community‐participatory approach to screen for potential antioxidants, glucosidase and protease inhibitors, in partnership with tribal members from three different Alaskan villages: Akutan, Seldovia, and Point Hope. Fruits that demonstrated activity in the STN were evaluated via HPLC and LC‐MS. Significant species and location‐based variation in AC (0.9‐438.6 mg eq /100g fw) and PAC (73.7‐625.2 mg eq /100g fw) were noted. Berries collected at the northernmost site (Point Hope) demonstrate significantly higher flavonoid concentrations in some species. A‐type PAC dimers through tetramers were also identified in various species, which are being examined for lipid accumulation inhibition activity and effects on mRNA expression levels in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes.

Supported by EPA STAR Research Assistance Agreement No. EPA RD‐83370701.
Genistein reduces the number and duration of hot flashes in peri/post menopausal women in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multi‐center trial
Authors: Elliott James Gary , Evans Mal , Sharma Prachi , Berman Robert , Guthrie Najla
Published: June 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a safe, high‐purity, non‐plant derived, non‐allergenic, patent‐protected, proprietary genistein (geniVida) in alleviating hot flashes in peri/post menopausal women.

Methods

84 peri/post menopausal women (minimum 7 hot flashes/day or 40/week) were enrolled in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel, multi‐center ICH/GCP trial and given a 30 mg capsule of geniVida or a 30 mg placebo capsule daily with breakfast for 12 weeks. Measurements included daily hot flashes, FSH, 17 beta‐estradiol, endometrial thickness and adverse events.

Results

Women on geniVida had fewer hot flashes/day from baseline to 8 and 12 weeks vs. women on the placebo (p=0.045 and p=0.015, respectively). 61.5% of women on geniVida had 50% or greater reduction in daily hot flashes vs. 25.9% of women on placebo. 88.5% of women on geniVida had 25% or greater reduction in duration of daily hot flashes vs. 59.3% of women on placebo. Severity of hot flashes was not different between groups. There were no differences between the groups for FSH, 17 beta‐estradiol, endometrial thickness and adverse events.

Conclusions

geniVida genistein was demonstrated to have a significant benefit in reducing the number and duration of daily hot flashes in peri/post menopausal women and may be used to manage menopausal symptoms without hormone replacement. Supported by DSM Nutritional Products, Inc.
Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel group study to evaluate the effect of 500 mg once a day EpiCor on allergy symptoms
Authors: Robinson Larry E , Moyad Mark A
Published: June 2021

An immunogenic fermentate product, EpiCor®, has demonstrated the ability to reduce the risk and duration of cold and flu‐like symptoms, and to modulate the immune response in two previous randomized controlled trials. In this follow‐up study, EpiCor is tested for its impact on seasonal allergies. Eighty‐four (84) healthy subjects tested positive for seasonal allergies and were randomized to 500mg/day EpiCor vs. placebo during the 12 week spring/summer allergy season. Subjects completed a questionnaire and recorded their symptoms and use of rescue medication in an allergy diary.

Because pollen counts were significantly higher for weeks 0‐6 vs. weeks 7‐12 (p=0.0003), only data from the first 6 weeks of the trial are reported. During this period, EpiCor significantly reduced the mean severity of nasal symptoms (p=0.03), runny nose (p=0.005) and nasal congestion (p=0.04), and resulted in approximately 6 fewer congestive days vs. placebo (17 vs. 23 days, p=0.04). Subjects taking EpiCor also utilized significantly less rescue medication (p=0.04) vs. placebo. Nasal smear data mirrored this observed effectiveness, with lower nasal eosinophils (p<0.06) in the EpiCor vs. placebo group. These current and past clinical trials suggest that this nutritional fermentate product may have beneficial clinical immune modulating effects. Research supported by Embria Health Sciences, Ankeny, Iowa.
Effects of Bison Compared to Beef Consumption on Selected Biomarkers of Inflammation
Authors: Mihalopoulos Jason , Bennett D. , Jalili T. , Williams D. P. , McDaniel J. , Richardson R. S. , Askew E. W.
Published: June 2021

Background

Diets high in saturated fat are linked to increased levels of inflammatory biomarkers and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Beef is a common dietary source of saturated fat. Bison meat is a lean meat alternative to beef and has higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids.

Objectives

To determine if consumption of bison vs. beef will reduce inflammatory biomarkers related to CVD.

Methods

Nine male subjects participated in a double blind cross over free living study. Subjects ate 12 ounces beef or bison meat/d (steak and roast), 6 d/wk for 49 d followed by a 30 d washout period; after which they received the other meat for 49 days. Diets were isocaloric varying only by the type of meat. Blood samples were taken before and after a single meal (acute), and at the start and end of each 49 d feeding period (chronic) and analyzed for IL‐6, IL‐10, PAI‐1, and TNF‐α.

Results

Bison treatment: TNF‐α was significantly decreased both acutely and chronically (‐7%, ‐10%; p<0.05), while PAI‐1 only decreased acutely. Beef treatment: No significant changes in these biomarkers were observed.

Conclusion

Acute or chronic beef consumption over a 7 wk period did not increase inflammatory biomarkers. Bison consumption showed some advantage over beef due to its modulation of TNF‐α and PAI‐1.

Source of research support: National Buffalo Foundation
Mode of delivery and early nutrition differentially impactiIntestinal development of the neonatal piglet
Authors: Radlowski Emily C. , Wang Mei , Monaco Marcia H. , Nehrling Erica W. , Tappenden Kelly A. , Donovan Sharon M.
Published: June 2021

Route of delivery can affect microbial colonization. Herein, the hypothesis that delivery mode and early nutrition interact to modulate intestinal development was tested. Colostrum‐deprived piglets derived by vaginal (VD; n=37) or Cesarean delivery (CD; n=27) were randomized to be sow‐reared (SR) or fed formula (F) or F + fructooligosaccharides (2 g/L) and polydextrose (2 g/L) (F+P). On d7 and 14, samples of jejunum (JJ), ileum (IL) and ascending colon (AC) were collected for analysis of morphology, disaccharidase activity and electrophysiology in Ussing Chambers. JJ weight (g/kg BW) was greater in VD than CD piglets (p=0.04). IL weight increased over time (p=<0.001); there was a trend for an interaction between delivery mode and day (p=0.055). JJ mucosal weight (g/kg BW) was greater in SR than F or F+P piglets (p<0.05). Disaccharidase activities were greater in SR than F or F+P piglets (p<0.05). Transmucosal resistance was greater in JJ of SR than F or F+P piglets (p<0.05). Between d7 and d14, AC glutamine transport decreased (p<0.05) and glucose transport increased (p=0.07). Carbochal‐induced chloride secretion in the JJ was affected by diet*day and in the AC by diet*delivery. In conclusion, sow milk relative to F or F+P increased JJ mucosal weight, enzyme activity, and barrier function. In addition, prebiotics reduced chloride secretion in CD piglets to levels similar to VD piglets. (BMS Freedom to Discover Award)
Exercise reduces production of endothelin in the coronary circulation
Authors: de Beer Vincent J , Bender Shawn B , Gao Fen , Hoekstra Maaike , Duncker Dirk J , Merkus Daphne
Published: June 2021

We have previously shown that withdrawal of an endothelin (ET)‐mediated vasoconstrictor influence during exercise contributes to metabolic vasodilation of the porcine coronary vasculature. The aim of the present study was to investigate if this reduced ET‐mediated vasoconstriction during exercise was due to a reduced production of ET from its precursor Big‐Endothelin (BigET) and/ or a reduced sensitivity of the coronary vasculature to ET.

Changes in coronary blood flow (CBF) and coronary venous oxygen pressure (cvPO2) in response to graded infusions of ET (10 and 20 pmol/kg/min for 10 minutes, intravenously) and its precursor BigET (20 and 40 pmol/kg/min for 10 minutes, intravenously) were measured in chronically instrumented swine (n=4) at rest and during submaximal treadmill exercise at 3km/h.

Administration of ET resulted in dose‐dependent decreases in CBF and cvPO2 both at rest (P<0.05 by ANOVA) and during exercise (P<0.05 by ANOVA). The decrease in CBF and cvPO2 in response to ET was similar during exercise as compared to rest, indicating that the coronary vasoconstrictor response to ET was maintained during exercise.

Administration of BigET also resulted in dose‐dependent decrease in both CBF and cvPO2 at rest (P<0.05 by ANOVA), but not during exercise (P<0.05 by ANOVA). Since exercise resulted in an attenuation of the coronary vasoconstrictor response to BigET but not ET, it appears that the production of ET from its precursor BigET is decreased during exercise.

In conclusion, exercise does not result in altered sensitivity of the coronary vasculature to ET, but does affect production of ET from BigET. The decreased ET production is likely to contribute to metabolic coronary vasodilation during exercise.

Supported by Netherlands Heart Foundation grant 2000T042.
Mandatory fortification with folic acid in the United States appear to have adverse effects on histone methylation in women with pre‐cancer but not in women free of pre‐cancer
Authors: Piyathilake Chandrika Jayanthi , Macaluso Maurizio , Badiga Suguna , Celedonio Jorge E , Bell Walter C , Grizzle William E
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether mandatory fortification of grain products with folic acid in the USA is associated with changes in histone methylation in cells involved in cervical carcinogenesis. Cervical specimens (free of pre‐cancer or diagnosed with pre‐cancer cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 [CIN 3]) obtained before (1990‐92) or after mandatory folic acid fortification (2000‐02) were used to examine the degree of histone methylation (H3 Lys‐9) by immunohistochemistry. Age‐ and race‐adjusted mean H3 Lys‐9 score was significantly higher in CIN 3 specimens obtained in the post‐fortification period compared to pre‐fortification period (P < 0.05). In contrast, in specimens obtained from women free of CIN, H3 Lys‐9 scores were significantly lower in post‐fortification specimens compared to pre‐fortification specimens (P < 0.05). Altered histone methylation has emerged as key to DNA methylation‐related gene silencing and this type of gene silencing in cancer is accompanied by an increase in H3 Lys9 methylation. Therefore, higher Lys‐9 methylation in cervical tissues of women diagnosed with CIN 3 in the post‐fortification period compared to pre‐fortification period suggest that fortification may have adverse effects on histone methylation in already initiated cells. Lower Lys‐9 methylation in cervical cells of women free of CIN in the post fortification period compared to pre fortification on the other hand suggest that fortification is likely to protect against the initiation of carcinogenic process in the cervix.

Supported by NCI R03 CA 102893
Diet composition affects the development of reflux‐induced esophageal adenocarcinoma in male SD rats
Authors: Aiyer Harini S , Li Yan , Martin Robert C.G
Published: June 2021

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is the fastest growing incident cancer and has one of the highest mortality rate among all human cancers. The induction of mixed bile/acid reflux in rats by using esophagoduodenal anastomosis (EDA) causes reflux esophagitis and development of EAC within 6 months. In this study, we evaluated whether composition of the diet affects the development of reflux‐induced EAC. Male SD rats were either sham (SH)‐ or EDA‐operated and fed either a grain‐based rodent diet (RD) (SH‐RD, n=3; EDA‐RD, n=10) or a purified AIN‐93M diet (PD) (SH‐PD, n=4; EDA‐PD, n=11). They were weighed periodically and euthanized at the end of 24 weeks to measure esophageal tumors. All rats that underwent sham surgery continued to gain weight throughout the study period and no tumors were detected. Compared to sham animals, animals that underwent EDA‐surgery had significantly lower weight gain. There was no significant difference in weight gain among EDA animals fed 2 different types of diets until 9 weeks after the surgery. After 9 weeks, EDA‐RD continued to lose weight significantly, whereas the weight loss leveled in EDA‐PD (p<0.001). However at 24 weeks, the tumor incidence was different but not statistically significant between the groups (4/10 in EDA‐RD (40%) versus 3/11 in EDA‐PD (27%)). These results suggest that the composition of the diet may affect weight gain and carcinogenesis in this model.
Treatment with eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid in vitro increases surface integrin expression in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Bureyko Taylor F , Dixon Walter T , Clandinin Tom MT , Mazurak Vera C
Published: June 2021

Prostate cancer cells typically metastasize to bone, a process facilitated by integrin adhesion receptors. Modulation of integrin expression represents an important therapeutic opportunity, however, mechanisms of integrin regulation are not fully understood. The objective of this study was to measure total and surface integrin expression in a series of prostate cancer cell lines in response to n‐3 fatty acid treatment. Prostate cancer cell lines representative of increasing stages of malignancy (RWPE‐1<LNCaP< DU‐145< PC‐3) were cultured in media containing vehicle control or a combination of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 60 µM) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 40 µM) for 48 hours. Cells were harvested, surface proteins were biotinylated and precipitated with NeutrAvidin beads. Affinity precipitates and unlabelled cell lysates were separated by SDS‐PAGE and analysed by Western Blot to detect integrin monomers. Culturing cells with n‐3 fatty acids increased EPA and DHA content of membrane phospholipids. Total integrin expression was not affected by fatty acid treatments, however, surface expression of integrins α2, α6, β1, β3, and β4 was higher in comparison to vehicle controls. Our study suggests membrane incorporation of EPA and DHA enhances surface localization of integrins in prostate cancer cells and may represent a novel means to improve the effectiveness of integrin‐targeted therapeutic agents.
Discovery of soy peptides from enzymatic hydrolysis of purified β‐conglycinin with potent fatty acid synthase inhibitory activity
Authors: Martinez‐Villaluenga Cristina , Roman Maxine , Gonzalez de Mejia Elvira
Published: June 2021

Current evidence indicates that fatty acid metabolism pathway represents a potential target for obesity prevention. Inhibition of fatty acid synthase (FAS) results in decrease in food intake and body weight in animal models. In addition, FAS is over‐expressed in several tumor types; therefore, its inhibition is an important therapeutic opportunity inducing tumor cell‐specific apoptosis. The objectives were the discovery and characterization of FAS inhibitory peptides derived from purified soy β‐conglycinin. FAS inhibitory peptides were produced by enzymatic hydrolysis of pure soy β‐conglycinin (BCH) using alcalase (from Bacillus licheniformis), isolated by co‐immunoprecipitation and identified on a Q‐Tof API‐US nanoAcquity UPLC tandem ESI mass spectrometer. Inhibitory activity of BCH was assayed against purified FAS from chicken liver. Soybean BCH showed a potent FAS inhibitory activity (IC50 = 35 µM) which was higher than the positive control 4‐methylene ‐2‐ octyl‐ 5‐ oxotetrahydrofuran ‐3 ‐ carboxylic acid (IC50 = 76 µM). Three hydrophilic peptides KNPQLR, EITPEKNPQLR and RKQEEDEDEEQQRE were identified. The molecular interactions of these peptides with FAS catalytic sites were evaluated by computational molecular docking. In conclusion, soy peptides were discovered for the first time with a potent FAS inhibitory activity.

Supported by European Commission (PIOF‐GA‐2008‐219860), Cargill Co.
Vascular oxidative stress, NF¿B activation and AT1 Receptor upregulation precede the development of hypertension in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR)
Authors: Bhatt Siddhartha Rajendra , Banday Anees Ahmad , Lokhandwala Mustafa F
Published: June 2021

Oxidative stress is strongly associated to hypertension. However, it is unclear whether oxidative stress is a cause or a consequence of hypertension and what role it plays in this disease. A hallmark of hypertension is abnormal vascular tone which is, in part, due to Angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) upregulation, the cause of which is unknown. We have previously shown that oxidative stress activates NF¿B, a redox sensitive transcription factor, via nuclear translocation which contributes to AT1R upregulation and subsequent hypertension. Here we report that vascular oxidative stress, NF¿B activation and AT1R upregulation precede the development of hypertension in SHR. The blood pressure in young SHR (3‐4 wk old) was similar to the age‐matched normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). These SHR exhibited vascular oxidative stress as evidenced by increased oxidized glutathione levels, protein carbonylation and decreased superoxide dismutase activity as compared to WKY. The SHR vasculature also showed increased nuclear levels of NF¿B p65 subunit and increased AT1R protein levels. In conclusion, vascular oxidative stress via NF¿B activation may induce AT1R upregulation which precedes development of hypertension. This early evidence of oxidative stress suggests that it might be a cause of hypertension and may play a pivotal role in hypertension development by causing AT1R upregulation

Grant AHA SDG 0835428N
FRUCTOSE OVERLOAD POTENTIATES THE CARDIOVASCULAR AUTONOMIC DYSFUNCTION IN AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF MENOPAUSE AND HYPERTENSION
Authors: Sanches Iris Callado , Candido Georgia Orsi , Brito Janaina Oliveira , Sartori Michelle , Bernardes Nathalia , Irigoyen Maria‐Cláudia , De Angelis Kátia
Published: June 2021

The objective was to evaluate the effects of ovarian hormone deprivation (9 wks) in hypertensive (or not) female rats submitted (or not) to fructose overload. Female Wistar and SHR rats were divided into (n=7/group): control (C), ovariectomized (bilateral ovarian removal) (O), hypertensive ovariectomized (HO) and submitted to fructose overload (100g/L in drinking water) (FHO). Arterial pressure (AP) was directly recorded. Cardiovascular autonomic control was evaluated by pharmacological blockade and by spectral analysis. The O group showed increased AP and autonomic dysfunction as compared to C group. The FHO group showed increased blood glucose and tryglicerides, insulin resistance; an additional increase in mean AP (174±4 vs. C:108±1; O:121±2; HO:162±5mmHg), resting tachycardia, reduced vagal tonus (5±3 vs. C:55±5; O:37±6; HO:35±7bpm), increased sympathetic tonus (91±18 vs. 39±10bpm in C), decreased high frequency band of the pulse interval (vagal modulation) and exacerbated systolic AP variance and low frequency band (sympathetic modulation) in relation to other groups. The alfa index (baroreflex) was reduced in HO and (further) FHO rats. In conclusion, the fructose overload induced metabolic dysfunctions associated with additional impairment in cardiovascular autonomic control in hypertensive rats submitted to ovarian hormones deprivation. FAPESP: 07/57595‐5, 08/51868‐2; CAPES PROSUP.
Comparison of mean labial width in normal patients and those seeking labiaplasty
Authors: Murariu Daniel , Jackowe Davey Jules , Parsa F. Don , Nakasone G. Keoni , Parsa A. , Chun Benton
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Labiaplasty is a common, though controversial surgical procedure. The goal of labiaplasty is to reduce the mean labial width of the labia minora. The most common etiologies for enlarged labia minora are hypertrophy, edema or mechanical stretching. We present the most comprehensive study to date comparing mean labial width of healthy volunteers to those seeking reductive labiaplasty.

Methods

Labial width was defined as the distance measured in centimeters from the labial cusp to the edge of the labia minora, in the midline. Fifteen healthy patients, with ages ranging from 16 to 18 years, all G0P0, underwent measurement of labial width during a routine gynecological examination. Labial width was further measured in 24 patients requesting labiaplasty for hypertrophic labia. These results were compared using a Fischer's exact test.

Results

Mean labial width for the healthy patients was 1.54 cm. The mean labial width for patients seeking reductive labiaplasty was 3.52cm. This difference was found to be significant using Fischer's exact test, (p< 0.05).

Conclusion

This demonstrates that there is a definite anatomic basis for labiaplasty, and that patients seeking corrective surgery do not just suffer from dysmophia alone.
Age‐related Alterations in PI3‐Kinase/Akt and Heat Shock Protein 90 signaling in Dilation of Rat Soleus Feed Arteries
Authors: Trott Daniel Wayne , Woodman Christopher
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that impaired eNOS activation contributes to age‐induced endothelial dysfunction in skeletal muscle feed arteries. Soleus muscle feed arteries (SFA) were isolated from young (4 mo, n=25) and old (24 mo, n=25) Fischer 344 rats and cannulated with two glass micropipettes for examination of vasodilator responses to flow, acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in the absence or presence of Akt Inhibitor (AktI, 5µM) to inhibit Akt, LY‐294002 (25µM) to inhibit PI3K, or Radicicol (RAD, 20µM) to inhibit Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90). In the absence of inhibitors, flow‐and ACh‐induced dilations were attenuated in SFA from old rats in comparison to SFA from young rats. Incubation with AktI, did not alter flow‐, ACh‐ or SNP‐induced dilation in young or old SFA. Incubation with LY‐294002 attenuated flow‐ and ACh‐induced dilation in young (not old) SFA. RAD attenuated ACh‐induced dilation in young SFA but augmented ACh‐induced dilation in old SFA. RAD augmented SNP‐induced dilation in both age groups. Collectively, these results suggest that impaired PI3K (not Akt) signaling contributes to the age‐related impairment of endothelial function in SFA and that HSP90 may play a role in SFA smooth muscle contraction. Research supported by AHA 0765043Y, an ASCM Foundation Research Grant, and a Huffines Institute Graduate Student Research Grant.
Reduced basal Ca2+ entry in pulmonary endothelial cells from chronically hypoxic rats is restored by administration of the scaffolding domain of caveolin‐1
Authors: Gonzales Antonio J , Riddle Melissa A. , Paffett Michael L. , Walker Benjimen R.
Published: June 2021

Chronic hypoxia (CH)‐induced pulmonary hypertension is associated with impaired endothelial Ca2+ influx in response to store depletion. Molecular candidates for store‐operated and receptor operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE/ROCE) such as transient receptor potential (TRP) channels may also be involved in basal influx and appear to be trafficked to the plasma membrane by caveolin‐1 (cav‐1). We hypothesized that impaired basal Ca2+ entry occurs following CH and is due to deficient cav‐1 mediated trafficking of relevant ion channels. Ca2+ influx was assessed in isolated pressurized intrapulmonary arteries from control and CH rats (4 weeks at 0.5 atm) by Mn2+ quenching of fura‐2 fluorescence in the presence of a cav‐1 scaffolding domain peptide (AP‐CAV) or scrambled control. AP‐CAV increased basal Ca2+ influx in arteries from CH animals, and had no effect in the controls. In additional studies, we observed reduced immunofluorescent membrane localization of TRPC4 and cav‐1 in cultured bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAECS) exposed to hypoxia (2% O2, 4 days) compared to controls. These studies suggest that hypoxia per se impairs cav‐1 mediated trafficking of ion channels that may be responsible for basal endothelial Ca2+ influx.
Role of c‐myc in coronary vascular development and pathology
Authors: Souders Colby A , Banerjee Indroneal , Fusler John , Baudino Troy
Published: June 2021

The formation and patterning of the coronary vasculature is critical to development and pathology in the heart. During cardiac pathology and physiological growth, coordinated interactions between growth of the organ and formation of the vascular bed are present. Studies from our lab have found that c‐myc is a main regulator of the angiogenic network. Despite the importance of c‐myc in the regulation of the angiogenic cascade, little has been done to explore the role of c‐myc in the formation of the coronary vasculature. In this study we utilized c‐myc+/− mice to examine the effects of diminished c‐Myc on the formation of the vascular bed, vascular patterning, intercapillary space and cardiac function. We observed that c‐myc+/− hearts had decreased cardiac output, diminished vessel bed formation and increased innercapillary space. However, an increase in fractal values suggests an increase in vessel patterning. To recover the effects of c‐myc happloinsufficiencies we crossed c‐myc+/− to the APCmin/+ mouse model, a model in which c‐Myc is increased via β‐catenin stabilization, to make compound APCMIN/+ c‐myc+/− mice. These mice were observed to have recovered the cardiac deficiencies and vessel bed attenuation observed in the c‐myc+/− mouse. However these vessel beds were found to more tortuous and leaky. Together these data highlight the importance of c‐Myc levels in cardiac function and vascular formation.
Early exercise training intervention reverses left ventricular dysfunction and calcium handling abnormalities after myocardial infarction in diabetic rats.
Authors: Rodrigues Bruno , Jorge Luciana , Medeiros Alessandra , Rosa Kaleizu T. , Araujo Iara C. , Brum Patricia C. , De Angelis Katia , Irigoyen Maria Claudia
Published: June 2021

Male Wistar rats were divided in sedentary (S) and exercise training (ET) groups: control (C), myocardial infarction (MI)+S (SI), MI+ET (TI), diabetes+MI+S (SDI) and diabetes+MI+ET (TDI). After 20 weeks of ET, left ventricular (LV) function was assessed and intracellular Ca2+ proteins were analyzed by Western blotting. MI size althought similar at the begining (~40±3%) was reduced at the end of the protocol in trained groups as well as LV end diastolic pressure (TI: 19±6% and 5±0.6mmHg; TDI: 21±4 % and 7±2 mmHg) when compared to sedentary groups (SI: 36±3% and 16±2mmHg; SDI: 38±4% and 12±3mmHg). Trained groups (TI: 59±4 and TDI: 58±4 %) showed higher ejection fraction when compared to sedentary ones (SI: 40±1 and SDI: 54±1%). Survival rate was improved in trained groups (TI: 87% vs SI: 41% and TDI: 75% vs SDI: 30%). TDI rats displayed increased expressions of SERCA2 (25%) and phospholamban phosphorilated at serine 16 (34%). These results showed that early ET intervention improves the LV function and survival in TI and TDI animals. Moreover, the improvement of Ca2+ handling proteins observed only in TDI rats gives support to consider ET as a coadjuvant therapy able to induce additional changes at myocardium molecular levels in diabetic subjects after an ischemic event.
Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Subpopulation Response in a Type 2 Diabetic Mouse Model
Authors: Baseler Walter Allen , Dabkowski Erinne R. , Willamson Courtney L. , Frisbee Jefferson C. , Brock Robert W. , Hollander John M.
Published: June 2021

Dysfunctional mitochondria are central to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In skeletal muscle, two spatially distinct mitochondrial subpopulations exist. The interfibrillar mitochondria (IFM) which are situated between myofibrils and the subsarcolemmal mitochondria (SSM) which reside directly below the sarcolemma. The objective of this study was to determine how type 2 diabetes mellitus differentially affects distinct mitochondrial subpopulations in skeletal muscle. Db/db mice and littermate controls were sacrificed at 20 weeks of age and mitochondrial subpopulations were isolated from the gastrocnemius muscle. State 3 respiration in db/db mice was significantly lower in both IFM and SSM populations compared to respective controls leading to a decrease in RCR ratios (P<0.05). Electron transport chain complex I and IV activities were significantly decreased in the diabetic IFM with no change in the SSM (P<0.05 for both). Superoxide production was increased in the diabetic IFM and SSM, although to a greater extent in the IFM. These findings indicate that both mitochondrial subpopulations in mouse gastrocnemius muscle are affected during type 2 diabetes mellitus, however, the IFM exhibit a greater dysfunctional profile.
C1qbp localizes to mitochondria and protects against oxidative stress‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death
Authors: Baines Christopher P , Molkentin Jeffery D
Published: June 2021

Opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore is thought to be a critical event in mitochondrial‐mediated cell death, resulting in dissipation of mitochondrial potential, inhibition of ATP synthesis, and mitochondrial swelling and rupture. However, with the exception of cyclophilin‐D (CypD), the exact molecular composition of the mitochondrial pore remains uncertain. To this end we conducted proteomic analyses of CypD‐containing complexes isolated from liver mitochondria. One protein we identified was complement component 1q binding protein (C1qbp), which has been proposed to play a role in many cellular functions including mitochondrial homeostasis. To investigate whether C1qbp plays a role in MPT and cell death, we conducted both gain‐ and loss‐of function experiments in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Overexpression of C1qbp in MEFs using an adenovirus resulted in its exclusive localization to mitochondria. To our surprise, increased C1qbp protein levels actually suppressed hydrogen peroxide‐induced MPT and cell death. Antithetically, knockdown of endogenous C1qbp with siRNA sensitized the MEFs to oxidative stress‐induced MPT and cell death. Therefore, C1qbp, a novel CypD binding protein, appears to act as an endogenous inhibitor of the MPT pore and protects cells against oxidative stress.
Rescue of calcineurin A alpha null mice reveals a role for calcineurin in salivary gland function
Authors: Gooch Jennifer L , Pena Juan A , Reddy Ramesh N
Published: June 2021

Calcineurin is a calcium‐dependent enzyme that functions in many cells including the immune system, neurons, musculature and kidney. The phenotype of mice lacking the αisoform of the catalytic subunit (CnAα‐/‐) is notable for failure to thrive and early lethality; a cause for which has yet to be identified. In this study we report the rescue of CnAα‐/‐ mice to adulthood by feeding of a modified diet. The success of this approach suggested a defect in salivary gland function. Accordingly, while the rate of salivary production was normal, there was a significant decline in salivary amylase and peroxidase activity and lower amounts of sialic acid, indicating a defect in exocrine vesicle formation. Consistent with this finding, salivary glands from null mice demonstrated a marked attenuation of secretory vesicles and granular content of serosal acinar cells in submandibular glands. Subcellular fractionation of wildtype salivary glands revealed endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and trans‐Golgi network expression and activity of the αisoform. Loss of CnAα leads to retention of secretory vesicles in these fractions. Moreover, calcineurin activity in fractions containing the αisoform can be upregulated by acetylcholine and blocked by xestospongin, demonstrating a requirement for the IP3R. In conclusion, we find a critical role for CnAα downstream of the IP3R that is required for post‐ ER trafficking of secretory vesicles.
Effects of spaceflight and modeled microgravity on the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Ming Yuan , Min Yuan , Feng Zhang Jian , Ting Li , Ying Zhang , Jun Tan Yin , Bai Ding , Lin Nie Jie , Hui Li Ying , Zhong Jiang Shi
Published: June 2021

Objective

Spaceflight and simulated microgravity induced cardiovascular deconditioning. Vascular smooth muscle cell(VSMC) plays a critical role in the regulation of cardiovascular functions. To elucidate the effects of spaceflight and modeled microgravity on the proliferation of VSMC and its mechanisms, we examined protein expression of β‐catenin and its related signal molecular,

Methods

VSMCs exposed to microgravity for 48h in Shenzhou 7 spacecraft were fixed in space and stained by immunofluorescence after reentry. For the VSMCs exposed to modeled microgravity, the proliferation and cell cycle were measured by AlarmarBlue and flow cytometry .The protein expression of signal molecular was detected by western blot and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

Spaceflight and modeled microgravity inhibited the proliferation of VSMCs. Modeled microgravity caused VSMCs to slightly accumulate in G0/1, decreased the expression of N‐cadherin, β‐catenin, cyclin D1 and phosphor‐Akt, but increased the expression of phosphor‐ GSK‐ 3β and p21Cip1. Spaceflight decreased the expression of N‐cadherin, β‐catenin, cyclin D1, but decreased the expression of p21Cip1.

Conclusion

Spaceflight and modeled microgravity decreased the proliferation of VSMCs, associated with the inhibition of β‐catenin signaling pathway. (Funded by China manned‐space project)
Knockout of GPX1 alleviated hyperglycemia and insulin resistance induced by high dietary Se in mice
Authors: Chaudhury Ankur , Lei Xin Gen
Published: June 2021

Recent human studies have shown hyperglycemic and pro‐diabetic potentials of high dietary Se supplementation. The present study was conducted to determine if superanutrition of Se dys‐regulated murine glucose and lipid metabolism and if knockout of the most abundant selenoprotein glutathione peroxidase‐1 (GPX1) altered this effect of Se. A total of 40 weanling male GPX1−/− and their wild‐type (WT) mice were fed a Torula‐yeast based diet supplemented with 0.3 or 1.0 mg Se/kg (as sodium selenite, n = 10 mice/treatment group) for 10 wk. Starting at wk 4, both WT and GPX1−/− mice fed 1.0 mg Se/kg exhibited higher (P < 0.05) fasting blood glucose concentrations and(or) lower (P < 0.05) insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance than their respective controls fed 0.3 mg Se/kg. Glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion was also elevated (P < 0.05) by feeding the high‐Se diet to both genotypes at wk 8. However, knockout of GPX1 resulted in a reversal (P < 0.05) of all these trends. Paradoxically, plasma total triglyceride and nonesterified fatty acid concentrations were decreased (P < 0.05) by the high‐Se feeding, but the latter was increased (P < 0.05) by the GPX1 knockout. In conclusion, feeding weanling mice with a high Se diet seemed to induce hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and shift in plasma lipid profiles, whereas knockout of GPX1 might alleviate these changes (NIH DK 53018 to XGL).
Hypoxic HIF‐independent regulation of thioredoxin reductase 1 expression
Authors: Naranjo‐Suarez Salvador , Carlson Bradley A , Yoo Min‐Hyuk , Tsuji Petra , Gladyshev Vadim N , Hatfield Dolph L
Published: June 2021

Hypoxia occurs under various physiological (e.g., embryonic development, adaptation to high altitudes) and pathological (e.g., ischemic diseases, cancer) conditions. Although it is generally accepted that intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels change during hypoxia, the direction in which this change occurs is still hotly debated. Some studies have found a decrease in the levels of ROS specifically generated by NADPH oxidase under hypoxic conditions, while other studies that assess total intracellular ROS content have made opposite observations. Due to the major role of thioredoxin reductase 1 (TR1) as an antioxidant and redox regulator in mammalian cells, we studied the effect of hypoxic condition on TR1 expression and found that hypoxia reduced both mRNA and protein levels of TR1 in several cell lines. Hypoxia inducible factor 1‐alpha (HIF1‐alpha) stabilization by the iron chelator, deferoxamine, did not alter TR1 levels, while hypoxic conditions in HIF1‐alpha knockdown cells decreased TR1 levels in the same manner as in control cells, indicating that TR1 regulation by hypoxic conditions was HIF1‐alpha independent. Finally, overexpression of TR1 blocked ROS production by hypoxic conditions, indicating that the increase of ROS induced by hypoxia could be a consequence of TR1 down‐regulation under such condition. This research was supported by the Intramural Research Program of the NIH, NCI, CCR.
Six sigma Quality Metrics to evaluate Selenium, Zinc and Iron data
Authors: Castanheira Isabel Palmira , Gueifão Sandra Isabel , Coelho Inês Alexandra , Matos Ana Sofia
Published: June 2021

Identifying the most signification sources of artificial differences in clinical and food data quality is essential for those involved, in estimating and comparing nutrient intake based on data from different sources.

In this work six sigma methodology and metrics are applied to food composition data and clinical data to evaluate selenium, zinc and iron data quality. Trace elements in fish, milk and in serum were plotted in method device charts using maximum tolerances applicable to food composition organizations with acceptance criteria defined by USDA and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments requirements which have been tabulated by the USA Federal Government.

The approach was applied directly on laboratory data obtained for determination of selenium zinc and iron content in fish milk and serum. The Measurement Device Chart was constructed by representing the allowable inaccuracy and allowable imprecision of each programme. With the same methodology and using the definition of separate quality rules (tolerance limits) that are accepted in food and in clinical analysis, it was possible to compare and measure the quality of both types of data.

This information could enable users of food data to identify values that have acceptable quality for use in evaluation of relationships between food intake and chronic diseases, for example in multicenter epidemiological studies.

Grant Funding Source: EuroFIR
13C3‐pyruvate administration revealed differential metabolism between tissues and red blood cells and improved heart function during endotoxemia
Authors: Bateman Ryon Marshall , Nagahata Yoshiko , Yukutake Yoshi , Ohmura Mitsuyo , Hishiki Takako , Suematsu Makoto
Published: June 2021

The systemic inflammatory response induces a “hypermetabolic” state; yet, metabolic changes are not well understood. We assessed intermediary metabolism by determining glycolytic, TCA and PPP metabolites, amino acids and ATP levels. C57BL/6 mice (30–35g) were injected intraperitoneally with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 40mg/kg) to induce endotoxemia. Six hours post LPS, 13C3‐pyruvate was administered subcutaneously and heart, liver and RBCs harvested (20, 40, 60 minutes). 13C3‐labeled metabolites were measured by capillary electrophoresis ‐ mass spectrometry and quantified by AUC/t0–60. We found RBCs preferentially metabolized 13C3‐pyruvate compared to heart or liver and were a net lactate source. Under hypoglycemic conditions, RBCs accumulated 13C3‐glycerol‐3phosphate (red cell glycerol flux remained normal) and 13C3‐2,3BPG. 13C3‐glycolytic intermediates increased in the heart and liver, while 13C3‐TCA intermediates decreased. Amino acids increased in the liver. ATP was stable in the heart, but decreased in the liver and RBCs. Echocardiography revealed a partial recovery of left ventricular function that correlated with shifts in RBC metabolism, suggesting that a possible combination of enhanced RBC function and heart metabolism was beneficial to depressed organ function during the onset of endotoxemia. Support: GCOE Program for Metabolomics Systems Biology, MEXT, Japan.
Effect of administration of physiological doses of thyroid hormone on cardiac remodeling in rats with myocardial infarction
Authors: Bonomo Camila , Guizoni Daniele M , Martinez Paula F , Lima Aline R R , Zornoff Leonardo A M , Cezar Marcelo D M , Damatto Ricardo L , Rosa Camila M , Campana Alvaro O , Okoshi Katashi , Okoshi Marina P
Published: June 2021

Thyroid hormones modulate cardiovascular function in physiological and pathological conditions. In heart failure (HF), there is a decrease in serum levels of triiodothyronine (T3). The aim of this study was to determine whether delayed treatment with physiological dose of T3 attenuates cardiac remodeling in rats with chronic heart failure. HF was induced by myocardial infarction (MI). Animals subjected to simulated surgery were used as controls (Sham, n=12). Four months after surgery, infarcted rats were divided into two groups: untreated MI (n=11) and MI/T3 (MI treated with triiodothyronine, 0.5 μg/100 g body weight, n=11). Four and six months after surgery, rats were subjected to echocardiogram. There was no difference in echocardiographic variables between MI and MI/T3 groups before treatment. Infarct size was similar between groups (p>0.05, t test). Left atrial diameter was higher in MI than Sham group (Sham 12.0±1.54; MI 15.0±3.46; MI/T3 13.6±2.53 mm/kg; p<0.05). Isovolumic relaxation time normalized to heart rate was higher in MI (Sham 59.4±10.0; MI 73.2±9.7; MI/T3 60.9±9.1; p<0.05) and E‐wave deceleration time was lower in MI (Sham 48.6±4.86; MI 28.7±4.24; MI/T3 44.9±9.53 ms; p<0.05) than the other groups. In conclusion, late administration of triiodothyronine attenuates cardiac remodeling and preserves diastolic function in rats with myocardial infarction.