bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of neuronal migration defects in src‐1 mutant and Fyn transgenic C. elegans
Authors: Hinkle Karen L , Fulton Zachary , Chapdelaine Elizabeth , Ballif Bryan
Published: June 2021

Fyn is a Src Family Kinase (SFK) important for cerebral cortical development. Its SH2 domain tightly regulates catalytic activity via interaction with an inhibitory phosphotyrosine (Y531) in the C‐terminus. Recent mass spectrometry studies identified novel phosphotyrosines (pY185, pY213, pY214) in Fyn's SH2 domain which may regulate Fyn's activity. The goal of this project is to analyze whether newly identified phosphotyrosines in Fyn's SH2 domain alter neuronal migration in vivo. Transgenic worms expressing wild type human Fyn or a Fyn SH2 binding mutant (R176E) in mechanosensory neurons were engineered to determine if Fyn expression rescues the neuronal migration phenotype in an SFK (src‐1) null mutant. A transgenic construct was also engineered containing phosphomimetic mutations at Y185, Y213, and Y214. Fyn expression in transgenic lines was validated by Western blot, and preliminary analysis of neuronal migration in L4 stage C. elegans showed no alterations from non‐transgenic worms. Transgenic lines will be crossed with src‐1 mutants and analyzed for rescue or altered rescue of the src‐1 migration phenotype to determine whether phosphotyrosines within Fyn's SH2 domain are important in the regulation of neuronal development. This project was supported by the Vermont Genetics Network through grant #

8P20GM103449 from the INBRE Program of the NIGMS and NCRR, components of the NIH.
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Antagonized Brk‐mediated IGF‐1R Signaling in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Fan gaofeng , Fu Cexiong , Lin Guang , Pappin Darryl , Lucito Robert , Tonks Nicholas K
Published: June 2021

Signaling deregulation in ovarian cancer remains poorly understood, so do clinically applicable biomarkers and drug targets. As part of a quantitative proteomics analysis, we demonstrated underexpression of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) in most ovarian carcinoma‐derived cell lines. Stable restoration of PTP1B significantly decreased cell proliferation, migration, invasion, as well as anchorage‐independent survival.

Mechanistically, the IGF‐1R signaling pathway was substantially disturbed after ectopic PTP1B expression. Brk, a non‐receptor tyrosine kinase, which associated with and induced IGF‐1Rβ activation by phosphorylation at Tyr1135, was also inactivated upon PTP1B expression. Indeed, PTP1B bound to and dephosphorylated Tyr1131, 1135 of IGF‐1Rβ and Tyr342 of Brk, respectively, to negatively modulate Brk‐mediated IGF‐1Rβ activation. This inactivation led to enhanced dephosphorylation and activation of Bad, one of the major pro‐death members of Bcl‐2 family, and triggered cell death through apoptosis. Conversely, inhibition of PTP1B by either RNAi or small molecular inhibitor MSI‐1436 elevated Brk and IGF‐1Rβ activation in both ovarian and breast cancer cell lines. In conclusion, PTP1B is a negative regulator of both Brk and IGF‐1Rβ, and its loss, as we observed in ovarian cancers, leads to Brk‐mediated hyperactivation of IGF‐1R signaling.
Dissecting distinctive roles of GAB scaffolding proteins in allergic inflammation in vivo
Authors: Zhang Yun , Zhang Xue , Xu Jiaqi , Tao Bo , Liang Zuyu , Cheng Hongqiang , Ke Yuehai
Published: June 2021

Scaffolding proteins Gab1 and Gab2 are ubiquitously expressed and belong to the GAB family (GABs), which integrates multiple signal events. This protein family has recently attracted interest as genetic variants of human GAB1 are considered a risk factor for asthma; however, GAB functions in lungs remain unclear. Previous studies have suggested that GABs have functional redundancy, due to their highly homology. We show here that both Gab1 and Gab2 are key factors in allergic inflammation, but have different functions. Firstly, we observed increased levels of both in lungs from ovalbumin (OVA)‐challenged mice. Further analysis indicated that Gab1 is mainly elevated in dendritic cells (DCs), while Gab2 is found in airway epithelial cells. Gab2‐knockout mice exhibited a marked reduction in mucus production and attenuated Goblet cell hyperplasia (GCH). We further recently characterized a unique role for Gab1 in DCs, which are essential for initiating and maintaining adaptive Th2 cell responses to allergens. Using a Cre‐loxP system, we generated myeloid Gab1‐specific mutants for OVA challenge. Lung histology and mucus metaplasia indicated that disruption of Gab1 in DCs leads to alleviated asthmatic inflammation, characterized by marked reduction of Th2 cytokines, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mucus production. Together, these findings have implications for the pathogenesis and therapy of asthma.
Chemotaxis in Epulopiscium
Authors: Faughnan Patrick , Piefer Andrew
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to further understand the protein‐protein interactions that occur during chemotaxis of Epulopiscium. Epulopiscium is a very large, unculturable, gram positive bacterium that lives symbiotically in the gut of the surgeonfish. Chemotaxis is the process in which cells move in response to different chemical stimuli. The specific proteins being studied were methyl accepting chemotaxis sensory transducers (MCP3 and 6), CheA, a sensory kinase, and CheW, a coupling protein. These proteins were selected to study because of DNA sequence homology with E. coli. We hypothesized that the Epulo MCP proteins should interact with CheW and/or CheA based on the behavior of the homologous proteins in E. coli. The Epulopiscium proteins were produced recombinantly in E. coli through the use of pGEX and pET‐24b vectors. CheA and CheW were cloned into E. coli using the pET‐24b vector and MCP‐3, MCP‐6, and CheW were cloned and expressed in E. coli using the pGEX vector. These proteins were purified via affinity chromatography and interactions were analyzed using a GST pull down assay.
Quantitative Analysis of How RET Receptor Activation is Coupled to ERK and Akt Signaling
Authors: Li Simin , Noorbaksh Javad , Riera Thomas V. , Mehta Pankaj , Whitty Adrian
Published: June 2021

The receptor tyrosine kinase RET is activated by growth factors of the GDNF family in conjunction with one of four glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐linked co‐receptors, GFRα1–4. Like other growth factor receptors, our quantitative knowledge of RET function, and particularly how RET activation is quantitatively and temporally coupled to downstream signaling events, remains very rudimentary. We have addressed this knowledge gap by using ELISA assays to precisely measure the phosphorylation levels of RET receptor, ERK1/2 and Akt that are observed upon stimulating mouse NB41A3 neuroblastoma cells expressing RET and GFRα3 with various concentrations of the growth factor artemin for different periods of time. We also use small molecule inhibitors of different steps in these signaling pathways to gain additional information by orthogonally perturbing the system, and to probe crosstalk between the ERK and Akt pathways. We extracted key features of the RET, ERK1/2 and Akt activation processes, such as initial activation rate, maximum and steady‐state signal amplitude, and signal duration, and tested the resulting relationships against models reflecting different connection topologies between these events. The results shed important new light on how activation of a growth factor receptor is quantitatively and temporally coupled to key events in divergent downstream signaling pathways. (GM087469)
JNK3 binding to arrestin‐3 differentially affects recruitment of upstream MAP kinase kinases
Authors: Zhan Xuanzhi , Kaoud Tamer S , Kook Seunghyi , Dalby Kevin N. , Gurevich Vsevold V.
Published: June 2021

Non‐visual arrestins‐2 and‐3 interact with numerous GPCRs and dozens of non‐receptors partners, such as MAP kinases. Arrestin‐3 promotes JNK3 activation, scaffolding ASK1‐MKK4‐JNK3 cascade. Full activation of JNKs, unlike other MAP kinases, requires two upstream kinases, MKK4 and MKK7, and each preferentially phosphorylating a distinct site, tyrosine (MKK4) and theronine (MKK7). It remains unclear whether arrestin‐3 can promote the activation of JNK3 by MKK7. Using phospho‐Tyr and phospho‐Thr antibodies we found that arrestin‐3 promotes the phosphorylation of both Tyr and Thr within the T‐P‐Y motif in COS‐7 cells. We also found that arrestin‐3 directly binds MKK7 comparably to MKK4. The binding of JNK3 enhanced the association of arrestin‐3 with MKK4, while reduced the binding of MKK7. With pure proteins we show that arrestin‐3 scaffolds MKK7‐JNK3 module at higher concentration than MKK4‐JNK3 module. Arresint‐3 also facilitates JNK3 activation in COS‐7 cells over‐expressing either MKK4 or MKK7. This is the first evidence that arrestin‐3 promotes JNK3 phosphorylation by MKK7. The data suggest that JNK3 binding has opposite effect on arrestin‐3 interactions with MKK4 and MKK7.

Support: NIH GM081756, GM077561 and EY011500 (VVG) and GM059802 and Welch Foundation Grant F‐1390 (KND).
Meta‐analysis Of Nuclear Targets Of Tyrosine Phosphorylation: Identifying Nodes that Regulate Nuclear Activity
Authors: Van Hornbeck Peter , Kornhauser Jon , Skrzypek Elzbieta , Zhang Bin , Latham Vaughan , Murray Beth
Published: June 2021

PhosphoSitePlus® (PSP)* contains the largest and deepest repository of tyrosine phosphorylation sites (pYPsites) available, curated from thousands of phosphoproteomic studies and from literature reports derived from low‐throughput experiments. PSP is thus an ideal resource of data that can enable proteome‐wide studies of the distribution of pYSites in all cellular compartments. We present here a meta‐analysis of the pYSites of nuclear proteins, as well as the proteins that regulate traffic into and out of the nucleus. The goal of this work is to identify proteins that are relatively enriched or depleted of pYSites, and sites that may regulate important nuclear activities including transcription, splicing, and nuclear trafficking. For example, tyrosine phosphorylation is rare in nuclear receptors, suggesting very little cross talk between nuclear receptors and receptors that activate tyrosine kinases. Tyrosine phosphorylation is dramatically increased in specific sites that may regulate nuclear translocation, transcription, and RNA processing. By way of contrast, other modification types such as serine and threonine phosphorylation, acetylation and methylation are compared to tyrosine phosphorylation, identifying compartments and processes that are enriched/depleted in each of these modification types.
Structural insights into the VRK1‐mediated histone phosphorylation and its regulation by mH2A1, a histone H2A variant
Authors: Yoon Ho Sup , Shin Joon , Chakraborty Goutam
Published: June 2021

Vaccinia related kinase 1 (VRK1), a mitotic protein kinase, is involved in cell proliferation, cell cycle, neuronal development, and gamatogenesis. VRK1‐induced phosphorylation of histone H3 results in nuclear condensation facilitating mitosis during cell division. To understand the VRK1's role in cell cycle transition, we studied the VRK1‐mediated histone phosphorylation and catalytic modulation by regulatory molecules. Interestingly, the VRK1 catalytic activity increases in late G2 and M phases of cell cycle and subsequently decreases at the end of anaphase. We showed that mH2A1, which is a histone H2A variant, suppresses the VRK1 activity during interphase and influences the cell cycle progression. Our NMR solution structure of human VRK1 revealed that its overall fold is similar to other VRK family kinases, VRK2 and VRK3. Despite their overall structural similarity, notable differences in their local structures were observed, in particular in the catalytic loop, activation loop and the non‐catalytic fragment at the C‐terminus of VRK1. The C‐terminal region orients around the catalytic site to be essential for its structural stability and biological activity. We showed that mH2A1 binds to the C‐terminal fragment and inhibits VRK1's catalytic activity. Hence our findings might provide structural insights into the chromatin epigenetic regulation through the VRK1‐mediated histone phosphorylation.
Human and murine Evc proteins contain functional P‐loops and possess intrinsic GTPase activity
Authors: Odunug Odutayo O.
Published: June 2021

Evc is one of the novel proteins that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Ellis van Creveld (EvC) syndrome and Weyers acrofacial dysostosis (WAD). EvC syndrome is a rare multi‐symptom human genetic disorder clinically characterized by mild short stature, postaxial polydactyly, dysplastic nail and teeth. Mutations in EVC and EVC2 genes that cause these syndromes introduce premature termination codons and frameshifts, resulting in production of defective Evc and Evc2 proteins respectively. Genetic and biochemical experiments have identified Evc and Evc2 as novel proteins that are essential for positive regulation of both Indian and sonic hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathways during bone and heart development, and pathogenesis of EvC syndrome. Two separate research reports demonstrated that Evc‐Evc2 complex interacts with smoothened (smo) at the base of the cilia to transduce Hh‐induced signal to downstream proteins. We present spectroscopic and immunochemical evidence to show that the putative P‐loop motif in Evc is functional and that it confers GTPase activity on the protein. Our findings have serious mechanistic implications on the transduction and regulation of Hh‐induced signals.
Selective regulation of PDE3A isoforms by differential phosphorylation
Authors: Vandeput Fabrice , Szabo‐Fresnais Nicolas , Dunlop Allan , Krall Judith , Manganiello Vincent C. , Houslay Miles D. , Movsesian Matthew A.
Published: June 2021

Two isoforms of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase PDE3A in cardiac myocytes, PDE3A1 and PDE3A2, have identical amino‐acid sequences save for a unique N‐terminal extension in PDE3A1, but functional differences between these isoforms have not been identified. We expressed recombinant PDE3A1 and PDE3A2 in HEK293 cells and examined their regulation by PKA‐ and PKC‐mediated signaling. PDE3A1 was recovered in microsomes from transfected cells, while PDE3A2 was recovered in soluble fractions. PDE3A1 activity was stimulated when PKA was activated by dibutyryl cAMP, but not when PKC was activated by PMA, while PDE3A2 activity was stimulated, to a much lower extent, by activation of either PKA or PKC. Western blotting with phosphospecific antibodies showed that PDE3A1 and PDE3A2 are phosphorylated at two alternative 14–3‐3‐binding sites: exposure to isoproterenol led to phosphorylation of PDE3A1 at S312, while exposure to PMA led to phosphorylation of PDE3A2 at S428. Selective phosphorylation of endogenous PDE3A1 and PDE3A2 at S312 and S428 was confirmed in preparations from human myocardium. These observations, which indicate that the activity of PDE3A1 and PDE3A2 and their interactions with other proteins are differentially regulated through PKA‐and PKC‐mediated pathways, suggest that the two isoforms are likely to have different roles in cyclic nucleotide‐mediated signaling.
Proteomic Identification of Preferential Interactions between PDE6 and its Inhibitory Subunit
Authors: Kozacka Katie Ann , Zhang Xiu‐Jun , Gao Xiong‐Zhuo , Zeng Xiaohui , Chu Feixia , Cote Rick H
Published: June 2021

Phosphodiesterase 6 (PDE6) is central for visual transduction in rod and cone cells. PDE6 is a heterodimeric enzyme consisting of α and β catalytic subunits (Pαβ) to which two identical inhibitory subunits (Pγ) are bound (Pαβγγ). Light activation of PDE6 results from transducin binding to Pγ and relieving inhibition of catalysis. Previous studies have shown two different classes of Pγ binding sites on Pαβ, but the structural basis for the differences in binding affinity of Pγ is unknown. We hypothesized that Pγ preferentially binds to one catalytic subunit due to differences in the amino acid sequence of the two subunits. To test this, we used chemical cross‐linking of Pγ to Pαβ followed by mass spectrometric identification of which catalytic subunit was cross‐linked over a range of Pγ concentrations. Even at sub‐stoichiometric levels of Pγ relative to Pαβ, we failed to observe a statistically significant difference in Pγ binding. This lack of preferential interaction of Pγ with the catalytic subunits at sub‐stoichiometric levels suggests that binding of the first Pγ subunit allosterically reduces the affinity with which the second Pγ subunit binds to the Pαβ catalytic dimer. This may also account for biochemical evidence that transducin preferentially interacts with one of the catalytic subunits during light activation. Supported by NIH grant EY‐05798 (RHC) and NH Agricultural Experiment Station grant NH00567 (FC).
Development of a two‐item quick screen for household food insecurity assessment
Authors: Na Muzi , West Keith , Shamim Abu Ahmed , Mehra Sucheta , Labrique Alain , Ali Hasmot , Wu Lee , Klemm Rolf , Christian Parul
Published: June 2021

Developing an abbreviated assessment scale may enable household food insecurity (HFI) to be assessed more rapidly in developing countries. Using data from 11,243 households in rural Bangladesh, we used latent trait analysis to identify 2 out of 9 questions on a standardized Food Access Survey Tool (FAST) that has been used to identify food insecure households. The latent trait analysis utilizes test parameters that reflect qualities of “discrimination” and “difficulty” in the way questions are answered by respondents. From the 9‐item FAST, the 2 questions that best discriminated households with at least mild food insecurity focused on the frequencies with which household respondents indicated they “buy rice” and “worry about food”. Against a mild‐moderate HFI cutoff using the full 9‐item scale, a positive response to either of the above 2 questions yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% and 100%, respectively. It is possible to closely approximate the performance of the original 9‐item FAST questionnaire with two questions, thereby improving efficiency in screening households with mild‐moderate food insecurity.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (Grant GH614)
Food insecurity is not associated with body mass index (BMI) among low‐income African American (AA) adult residents in Baltimore City
Authors: Budd Nadine , Liu Debra , Cuccia Alison , Jock Brittany , Jeffries Jayne , Frick Kevin , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Obesity is a major preventable risk factor for many chronic diseases. Prior research examining the relationship between food insecurity and obesity has shown inconsistent results. We sought to determine if there was an association between food security and BMI among low‐income AA adults. Anthropometric, food security, and socio‐demographic data were collected from 309 low‐income AA urban adult residents (168 males, 141 females) from May to September 2012. Mean BMI was 26.3 kg/m2 and 29.8 kg/m2 for men and women, respectively; 43% of men and 41% of women were categorized as having low or very low food security, as defined by the USDA adult food security scale. We found no significant association between food security status and BMI. Among males, higher income level was associated with higher odds of being food secure (OR=1.44, p<0.001), while women with higher education levels had significantly higher odds of being food secure (OR=2.07, p<0.004) and had lower BMIs (β= −1.72, p<0.05). While results suggest that food insecurity is not a predictor of obesity risk in this population, the presence of it at every level of BMI indicates the urgency for policy initiatives that improve overall access to nutritious food. Funded by NIH (#1R21HL102812–01A1).
Waist circumference (WC) & Waist:Hip Ratio (WHR) predict hypertension and diabetes risk better than Body Mass Index (BMI) among Filipinos
Authors: Acuin Cecilia , Duante Charmaine
Published: June 2021

Data from the 1998–2008 Philippine National Nutrition and Health Surveys (NNHeS) were analyzed to establish trends in the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes, and of their risk factors. The NNHeS are nationally representative surveys conducted every 5 years and include anthropometric, biochemical and clinical assessments of adults ≥ 20 years old. Prevalences of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, high BMI, high WC, high WHR, smoking and alcohol intake are increasing, as are intake of high energy‐dense foods. Having a high WC increases the odds of having hypertension 3‐fold, and of diabetes 7‐fold among males. For females, a high WHR will increase the odds of hypertension by 1.5 times, and of diabetes by almost 6 times. WC and WHR predict hypertension and hyperglycemia better than BMI with significantly higher areas under the curve particularly for females, and may be useful for screening individuals in resource‐constrained settings. Preventive measures for these chronic disease conditions are urgently needed as they threaten to overwhelm a health system set up to address infectious and maternal and child health conditions.

Grant Funding Source: WHO
A gauge repeatability and reproducibility study applied to the measurements from the ENSANUT‐2012 anthropometric training
Authors: Garcia‐Feregrino Raquel , Quezada‐Sanchez Amado David
Published: June 2021

We performed a Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility study to data from the anthropometry training prior to the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey of 2012. A crossed random effects model was specified to estimate variance components of weight (kg) and height (cm) adult measurements. A study of bias and linearity was also performed taking a gold standard anthropometrist as reference. The measurement system accounted for 0.1% of the total weight variation and 0.4% of the total height variation. Compared to the gold standard, a small overall bias of − 0.024kg (IC 95%: −0.048, −0.001) was observed for weight and did not significantly changed with the size of the part measured (IC95%: −0.001, 0.001). No bias was found for height (IC95%:− 0.037−0.048) and it was not linearly associated with the size of the part measured (IC95%:−0.004, 0.005). Our results allow assessing the quality of the gauge system used in ENSANUT‐2012 for anthropometric measurements. Overall the measurement system is adequate in terms of its precision and no relevant biases were found.
The effect of one Hass avocado per day on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors
Authors: Wang Li , Bordi Peter L , Fleming Jennifer A , Kris‐Etherton Penny M
Published: June 2021

Avocados are a good source of MUFA and also are rich in vitamins, minerals and phytosterols which could beneficially affect CVD risk. Well controlled studies are lacking about the specific effects of avocados on CVD risk. We conducted a randomized 3‐ period cross‐over, controlled feeding study to evaluate the effects of avocados on risk factors for CVD. Healthy, overweight/obese adults (BMI: 25–35 kg/m2) with moderately elevated LDL‐C (25– 90th percentile) consumed 3 isocaloric treatment diets (5 weeks each) with a 2 week run‐in Average American diet. Treatment diets were matched for SFA (<7% energy) and included a low‐fat diet (LF: 24% fat, 59% CHO, 16% PRO), a moderate fat diet (MF: 34% fat, 49% CHO, 16% PRO), and an avocado diet, which provided 1 avocado/day and an equivalent fatty acid profile as the MF diet (AV: 34% fat, 49% CHO, 16% PRO). Blood samples were collected at baseline and the end of each treatment diet. The AV diet significantly decreased TC, LDL‐C, apoB, LDL/HDL ratio and apoB/apoAI ratio (P<0.001). All treatment diets elicited a reduction in LDL‐C, however the LDL‐C reduction during the AV diet was the greatest (P<0.05). The AV diet and the MF diet did not significantly affect TG and HDL‐C, whereas the LF diet increased TG (P<0.001) and decreased HDL‐C (P<0.05). In summary, inclusion of one avocado a day as part of a healthy moderate fat diet beneficially affects CVD risk factors.

Grant Funding Source: Hass Avocado Board
Insulin‐sensitising effects of an isocaloric diet containing soluble fiber‐enriched flour in non obese non diabetic subjects
Authors: ROMANELLI MASSIMILIANO MARCO CORSI , Briganti Silvia , Goggi Silvia , Ermetici Federica , Zelaschi Roberta , Oggioni Clio , Ignaccolo Daniela , Orsi Michele , Morricone Lelio , Malavazos Alexis Elias
Published: June 2021

We studied the effect of pasta, bread and biscuits made with soluble fiber enriched flour on insulin sensitivity indices in 30 non obese non diabetic subjects with normal insulin sensitivity.

This was a randomized, controlled crossover, dietary intervention study. Subjects were randomized to receive the fiber‐enriched products for the first 4 weeks and then placebo products for the following 4 weeks, or vice versa. A controlled isocaloric diet was given for the whole 8‐weeks period. Measures of visceral fat distribution (waist, hip circumference), fasting glucose, insulin and triglycerides were analyzed at baseline and after each period of intervention.

Insulin resistance estimated with the Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) index and the Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) index improved significantly in all subjects after the fiber‐enriched flour period (1.5±0.73vs 1.22±0.56; 21.8±13.63vs18.55±9.16, respectively, p<0.05), but they did not change after the placebo period.

In conclusion, we suggest that soluble fiber enriched products may improve insulin sensitivity in non obese non diabetic subjects. This could be useful for prevention of insulin resistance in the general population.

University of Milan
The association between diet and acne
Authors: Burris Jennifer Christine , Rietkerk William , Woolf Kathleen
Published: June 2021

The role of diet in acne development is controversial. Recent evidence suggests that diet may be associated with acne. This study evaluated the relationship between dietary patterns and acne. A total of 248 (115 male, 130 female), participants, 18–25 years, completed two questionnaires designed to measure acne quality of life, self‐reported acne severity, and anthropometric and demographic characteristics. The Block fat/sugar/fruit/vegetable FFQ measured usual intake of low‐fat/trans‐fat free or low‐carbohydrate/low‐sugar versions of various foods. Participants with moderate‐severe acne reported a greater dietary GI (p<0.001) added sugar intake (p<0.001) and number of milk servings per day (p<0.001) compared to participants with no or mild acne. Conversely, participants with moderate‐severe acne consumed less fish (p=0.002) compared to participants with no or mild acne. Among all participants 57.7% reported diet to aggravate acne. There was no significant difference in acne quality of life or BMI between self‐reported acne groups
Effect of the glutathione s‐transferase (GST) M1 and Tl polymorphism on the blood pressure, lipid profiles, and the blood glucose of Korean subclinical hypertensive patients after kale juice supplementation
Authors: Kang Myung‐Hee , Han Jeong‐Hwa , Lee Hye‐Jin , Kim Tae Seok
Published: June 2021

Glutathione s‐transferase (GST) forms a multigene family of phase II detoxification enzymes which are involved in detoxification of reactive oxygen species. In this study, we examined whether daily supplementation of kale juice could modulate the blood pressure, levels of lipid profiles and the blood glucose, and whether this modulation could be affected by the GSTM1 and T1 polymorphisms. 84 subclinical hypertensive patients showing the systolic blood pressure (BP) over 130 mmHg or the diastolic BP over 85 mmHg received 300 ml/day of kale juice for 6 weeks, and blood samples were drawn before and after 6 weeks. Blood pressure significantly decreased in all GST genotypes after kale juice supplementation. Plasma glucose level decreased only in the GSTM1‐wild genotype, and plasma lipid profiles showed no difference in both GSTM1‐null and GSTM1‐wild genotypes. However, plasma HDL‐C was increased and LDL‐C was decreased in GSTT1‐wild type, while the blood glucose decreased in GSTT1‐ null genotype. Our findings suggest that the supplementation of kale juice might improve lipid profile in GSTT1‐wild genotype and decrease the blood glucose in the GSTM1‐wild or GSTT1‐null genotypes. (This research was supported by the Basic Science Research Program of the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2012–0001682)).
Dietary patterns, omega‐3 fatty acids intake from seafood and high anxiety symptoms during pregnancy: findings from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC)
Authors: dos Santos Vaz Juliana , Kac Gilberto , Emmett Pauline M. , Davis John M. , Golding Jean , Hibbeln Joseph R.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Little is known about relationships between dietary patterns, n‐3 fatty acids intake and excessive anxiety during pregnancy.

Objectives

To examine whether dietary patterns and n‐3 intake from seafood are associated with high levels of anxiety in pregnancy.

Methods

9,530 pregnant women at 32 wks’ gestation enrolled in ALSPAC. Dietary patterns were established from FFQ using principal component analysis. Total intake of n‐3 fatty acids (g/week) from seafood was estimated. Anxiety symptoms were measured by the Crown‐Crisp Experiential Index (score ≥9 was defined as high anxiety). Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the OR and 95% CI, adjusted by socioeconomic and lifestyle variables.

Results

Women in the highest tertile of the health conscious (OR 0.77; 0.65–0.93) and the traditional (OR 0.84; 0.73–0.97) pattern scores were less likely to report high anxiety. High anxiety was reported among women in the highest tertile of the vegetarian pattern (OR 1.25; 1.08–1.44) and among those reporting no n‐3 intake (OR 1.53; 1.25–1.87) compared with those with intakes of >;1.5 g/week.

Conclusion

Women in the highest tertile of the healthy and the traditional dietary pattern scores were less likely to report high anxiety, while those with high scores on a vegetarian pattern or n‐3 intake <1.5 grams/week, were more likely to report high anxiety symptoms in pregnancy.

Grant Funding Source: Division of Intramural Basic and Clinical Research, NIAAA, NIH; CAPES Brazil
Infant dietary intake is associated with weight gain from 1 to 12 months of age
Authors: Gallo Sina , Vanstone Catherine , Rodd Celia , Weiler Hope A.
Published: June 2021

Early life nutrition can affect future health outcomes. We aimed to describe nutrient intake and growth of infants longitudinally. Healthy breastfeeding infants were recruited from the vitamin D dose response study (NCT00381914) in Montreal, Canada. At 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 mo of age, infant's diet over 3 d was recorded by mothers including test‐weighing for breast milk intake. Nutrient intake was generated (2010b Canadian Nutrient File). Infants had healthy growth, mean weight and length for age Z‐scores similar to WHO standard. On average, 88% of infants were breastfed by 6 mo and 35% by 12 mo. Energy intake increased over the year (p<0.05) and, as a % of total energy, protein and carbohydrate increased and fat declined (p<0.01). Introduction of complementary food was 5 (±1) mo and negatively correlated with energy intake (r=−0.41; p<0.01) and weight gain (r=−0.32; p<0.01) from 1 to 12 mo. This sample represents some selection bias; however, suggests timing of complementary foods may impact growth by 1 y of age.

Age (mo)

1 n=104
3 n=91
6 n=78
9 n=56
12 n=51

Total energy intake, kcal/d
535 (270,782)a
536 (252,893)a
577 (289,967)a
694 (339,1217)b
875 (498,1425)c

kcal/kg/d
116 (97,130)a
87 (76,102)b
73 (59,85)c
78 (62,102)b,c
94 (74,113)b,d

Protein, % of total energy/d 6
(6,11)a
6 (6,11)a
7 (6,13)b
12 (6, 25)c
16 (9,26)d

Fat, % of total energy/d
56 (50,56)a
56 (37,56)a
47 (22,56)b
35 (18,49)c
35 (17,47)c

Carbohydrates, % of total energy/d
39 (4,46)a
39 (4,53)a
48 (5,69)b
55 (12,76)c
53 (5,70)d

Nutrient intakes from 1 to 12 mo, median (range); within rows values with different superscripts indicate p<0.05.

Grant Funding Source: Canadian Institutes of Health Research; Nutricia Research Foundation
Beyond calcium status obesity would impair bone mineralization in school age children of both sexes: Preliminary report.
Authors: Rio Maria Esther , Dupraz Hernan
Published: June 2021

During nutritional assessment of children 5 to 9,12 y old, impaired bone mineralization was found when both, inadequate calcium status and weight excess were present. To discriminate each variable influence, we took those129 cases with paired data of anthropometry (APM), calcium status (CaS) and bone mineral density (BMD), previously determined. In basal urine samples, Ca and creatinine, expressed as Ca/Cr ratio, an index of CaS where <0.07, deficient, or >;0.07, adequate. Quantitative Ultrasonic Index, expressed as QUI was used by BMD. Data was analyzed according to: APM, normal (N), overweight (OW) and obesity (O), by age group and range of CaS. Results of QUI are shown in the table

Although analysis is consistent with the study objective, wide SD not allowed obtain any statistical significance. In normal groups, changes in QUI due to age were as expected. Conversely, excessive weight, especially in obese children, showed negative effects on QUI, even in presence of adequate calcium status.

Conclusion

Results point to children obesity as a risk factor for poor bone development, that would be al least as important as calcium status. Many more cases are necessary to test and verify this new hypothesis. UBCyT B060. H. Dupraz. PhD Thesis
Training and Professional Development Barriers and Opportunities in Programs Participating in the National School Lunch Program
Authors: Jones Anna Marie , Punia M. , Young S. , Chase C. , Zidenberg‐Cherr S.
Published: June 2021

This research evaluated the training, resource, and professional development needs of staff in programs that participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). A survey was sent to 1,490 programs in California with 994 respondents initiating and 739 (74.3%) completing the web‐based survey. An additional 34 respondents completed a paper questionnaire. Respondents indicated training was needed in a variety of topics, but several barriers to training were present, particularly the expense of training. More than half of respondents (61.5%) were interested in moving up the child nutrition career ladder. To encourage respondents to pursue professional development opportunities, tuition paid or partially paid (65.7%), online classes (61.8%), and higher pay (56.3%) were the most frequently chosen options. Certification and credentialing are available to school nutrition personnel through the School Nutrition Association, however the majority of respondents had not obtained these. The expense of becoming certified or credentialed was cited as the most frequent barrier by respondents (64.3%). In summary, training and professional development opportunities are desired by personnel in programs participating in the NSLP, but expenses associated with training and professional development may be acting as a barrier. Funding for this study was provided in part by the California Department of Education.
The effects of a 3‐year worksite health promotion program in male workers with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Cho Sang Woon , Kang Ji‐Yeon , Choi Tae‐In , Park Yoo‐Kyoung
Published: June 2021

The study aimed to examine the long‐term (3‐year) effects of lifestyle intervention on cardiovascular risk factors and dietary intakes in Korean male workers with metabolic syndrome (MS). We conducted a lifestyle intervention trial designed to modify personal lifestyles among 75 male workers (control group, n =45; intervention group, n = 30). The intervention consisted of two phases; a 12‐week main program (face‐to‐face counseling 5 times) and a 30‐week follow‐up program. Assessments included anthropometrics, body composition, biochemical parameters, and nutrient intakes. After the intervention, triglyceride (TG) was significantly reduced in the intervention group (baseline 275.47 ± 172.10mg/dL vs. after 3 years 202.23 ± 123.05mg/dL, p<0.05). HDL‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) significantly increased in both groups (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in nutrient intakes between at baseline and after 3 years. Compared with the control group, prevalence of MS and its risk factors (especially in High TG and low HDL‐C) were significantly reduced after 3 years in the intervention group (p<0.05). Continuous worksite‐based lifestyle intervention showed positive effects on MS prevalence and its components.
A Comparative Study of Unbalanced Eating Habit and Dietary Pattern of middle school students in Incheon area, Korea
Authors: Kim YoungA , Lee Eunyoung
Published: June 2021

This study was conducted to provide basic information about influence of unbalanced eating habit on growing youth's dietary pattern. 728 middle school students(349 boys and 379 girls) were cross‐sectional surveyed in the region of Incheon, one of 5 major cities in Korea, using a questionnaire.

In the aggregate, 74% of students had unbalanced eating habit. And the girls had higher ratio of having unbalanced eating habit than the boys. The students with unbalanced eating habit were affected by mass media like TVs when their dietary habits were built (p<.05). And they had sugar‐containing food such as confectionery, chocolate and soft drink frequently between meals (p<.01). Also, they tended to choose food focusing on taste rather than nutritive quality (p<.05). Their food preference found that they preferred meat to vegetables without distinction of gender.

As for behavior with school meals, students with unbalanced eating habit tended to leave food when school meal contains food material they disliked, while students with balanced eating habit tended to leave school meals because it was too much (p<.001). Consequently, unbalanced‐eating students tended to leave vegetables significantly more than students with balanced eating habit. Also, students with balanced eating habit indicated higher preference for foods than students with unbalanced eating habit regardless of cooking method and food materials (p<.001).

Therefore, school meals containing various food materials and nutrition education to correct students’ eating habit are required to let growing youth improve each of their dietary life.
iCook: Developing a 4‐H Curriculum for Youth and Adults
Authors: Franzen‐Castle Lisa , Krehbiel Michelle , White Adrienne , Mathews Douglas , Yerxa Kate , Colby Sarah , Donaldson Amber , Kattelmann Kendra , Koens Alyssa , Olfert Melissa , Flanagan Sue
Published: June 2021

The objective was to develop a curriculum to increase culinary competence, family mealtime and physical activity of youth and adults using community‐based participatory research, integrating research and Extension through 4‐H programming. A 5‐state team adapted two existing 4‐H curricula, Fast Foods and Youth in Motion, used additional resources to address food safety, family mealtime, and MyPlate, and grounded the curriculum in the Social Cognitive Theory and experiential 4‐H learning model. The result was, iCook 4‐H, consisting of six, 2‐hour lessons and was packaged into leader and participant binders, including guides, handouts, activities and recipes for each lesson. MyPlate placemats were developed for youth with activities on the back to reinforce lesson objectives. Curriculum training webinars were held with lesson leaders and state PIs, allowing for open forum discussions prior to lessons; phone conferences occurred between lessons for process evaluation. Content and activities provided were accurate and informative but may need to be modified to increase time spent in cooking and physical activity. Findings from the pilot study will be used to further refine and revise the curriculum for the intervention phase. Funding: USDA/NIFA/AFRI, Integrated Proposal for Childhood Obesity Prevention Challenge Area #2012–68001‐19605.
Strength of association of dietary factors and physical activity with obesity and body fat in school children in Mexico City
Authors: Barrera Daniela , Perez‐Rodriguez Marcela , Vega Norma , Gamez Eli , Leyva Gerardo , Pfeffer Frania , Ortiz Araceli
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Several diet and physical activity (PA) factors have been associated with obesity, however, is not clear which factors impact the most among children.

Objective

Compare the diet and PA between normal weight (NW) and obese (OB) children and determine the strength of association between dietary and PA and obesity/body composition in NW and OB 8 to 10 year old children in Mexico City.

Methods

Cross sectional study. PA and dietary intake were directly measured for 7 days and by two 24‐hour recalls respectively. Weight, height and body fat by bioimpedance analysis were obtained. Preliminary data from 40 OB and 40 NW children is presented.

Results

The percentage of daily energy intake recommendation was higher in NW than in OB children (107% vs 90.2%). Dairy, fruit, vegetable and sugar‐sweetened beverages consumption was not different between groups neither was associated with obesity or body composition. Total PA was significantly higher in NW children (p<0.05); performing ≥15 min of moderate to vigorous PA daily was associated with NW (OR=0.28). Mean daily sedentary time was associated with BMI percentile for age and body fat (r=0.136, p<0.05); Carbohydrate intake ≥53.5% of the total energy intake was a protective factor (OR=0.42).

Conclusions

Increasing moderate to vigorous PA and reducing sedentariness are the factors that can lower the most the risk for obesity.
Healthy Lifestyle Telephone Group Counseling for Children and Their Families
Authors: Gibson Cheryl A , Sol Renee J , Staubach Sara , Greene J Leon , Lee Jae Hoon , Pritchard Corie C , Sullivan Debra K , Davis Dawnavan
Published: June 2021

Alternative approaches to lifestyle coaching are needed to address the adoption and maintenance of healthy habits. Primary objective of the 12‐week pilot program was to test the feasibility of group telephone counseling for families of overweight children. We utilized a weekly conference call to encourage healthy lifestyle changes and required weekly reporting of targeted health behaviors.

Methods

We collected qualitative and quantitative data. We compared BMI percentile and Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) scores between pre‐ and post‐intervention, using paired‐samples t‐tests. Mixed modeling analyses, adjusting for child's age, gender, and race, were used to estimate changes over time for daily fruit/vegetables (F/V), low‐fat dairy, water consumption, daily steps and physical activity (PA) minutes.

Results

The program included 10 children (10.2±1.6 yrs; 60% female; 70% White; 96.6 BMI percentile at baseline) and his/her parent. Focus group results revealed families enjoyed participation, used the tracking measures consistently and became much more aware of dietary and physical activity habits. Although not targeted, participants showed a moderate decrease in BMI percentiles (−1.0±2.7, d=0.4). FNPA total scores largely increased at post‐intervention (d=1.3, p<0.05). Overall, mixed modeling results indicated daily low‐fat dairy consumption significantly increased during the program (p<0.05), while PA minutes did not significantly increase over time. Female participants showed significantly more consumption of F/V (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Pilot results will be instrumental in informing a large scale trial. Research support provided in part by Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Online and campus students have positive perceptions of an open educational resource, the Kansas State University Human Nutrition (HN 400) Flexbook
Authors: Lindshield Brian , Adhikari Koushik
Published: June 2021

A flexbook is an open educational resource (OER), which is a free, openly licensed resource that can be adapted, adopted, and used by others. The flexbook was created in Google Docs as a textbook replacement for an intermediate level nutrition course. It can be shared to Google Docs accounts, accessed through a web link (goo.gl/vOAnR), and/or downloaded as a PDF from the course's learning management system. Further, the PDF can be printed or used to purchase a hard copy. Online and campus students’ perceptions and use of the flexbook from multiple online and campus semesters were collected through an anonymous online survey. Online students used the flexbook more frequently, liked the idea of the flexbook, its appearance, and flexibility more, and rated it of higher quality than campus students. Online students also liked and used the animations, videos, and web links more than campus students. A majority of the students used multiple electronic flexbook formats instead of hard copies. The PDF format followed by the Google Docs version, were the most commonly used primary formats by both online and campus students. Overall, students appreciated that the flexbook was free to use and had positive perceptions of it. Unlike many previous etextbook surveys and publications, students reported primarily using electronic flexbook formats of it. This may be because students have free access to multiple electronic formats.
Energy implications of eating out and other diet behaviors in Filipino adults
Authors: BAS ISABELITA N. , LARGADO FE G. , BORJA JUDITH B. , LEE NANETTE R , ADAIR LINDA S.
Published: June 2021

Energy and other nutrient intakes have been linked with obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. Intervention messages are best expressed as modifications in food consumption and diet behaviors rather than in nutrient levels. We examined diet behaviors and associated nutrient intakes (using 24‐hour food recall data) in 1909 Filipino young adults aged 21–22 (53% males) and their mothers (2018; aged 35–68) from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey. The majority ate 3 meals/day (16% young adults and 22% mothers usually skip breakfast), and 77% usually ate snacks (mean 1.4/day). Buying ready‐cooked foods (RCF; 71% mothers, 83% young adults) and eating in fast food restaurants (FFR; 20% mothers, 50% young adults) are emerging trends in the country. Multivariable models show that compared to home cooked foods, the number of RCF in the diet was positively associated with mean calories/day and negatively associated with vitamin intakes. Most RCF are bought from neighborhood eateries and ambulant vendors which raises food safety issues. Fat intakes were positively associated with eating in FFR which merits concern given the increase in FFR in Cebu. Skipping breakfast was also positively associated with fat intakes congruent with studies showing that prolonged overnight fast promotes unhealthy eating later in the day. R01AG039443, R01HD054501 R01TW008288
Organic and genetically modified food: consumer beliefs and behavior
Authors: Panchalk Jennifer C , Mistry Anahita M
Published: June 2021

Organic foods (OF) are becoming popular in the US, while there is growing public resistance to consumption of genetically modified foods (GMF). The objective of this study was to determine the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of the same cohort of consumers towards OF and GMF. A cross‐sectional survey was distributed to adults (n=260) who resided in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It included multi‐level attitudinal and behavioral assessments to determine correlations between response and predictor variables. Multiple correlations were found – consumers who preferred OF did not have a positive opinion of GMF (p<0.0001); this correlation was strengthened with increased level of education. Consumers who had a positive opinion of GMF were more willing to purchase GMF (p<0.0001); this correlation was further associated with younger individuals, aged 18–30 years. In contrast, consumers who preferred OF were also willing to purchase GMF (p<0.0001). There was no correlation between preference and purchase of OF (p = 0.5141) by consumers. Results thus showed a discrepancy between the belief‐behavior patterns of consumers who preferred organic foods, while consumers who expressed a positive opinion about GMF were more consistent in their beliefs and behaviors.