bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resveratrol Alleviates Lipid‐Induced Insulin Resistance in Lean, But Not Severely Obese, Myotubes
Authors: Turner Kristen , Park Sanghee , Beasley Taylor , Zheng Donghai , Houmard Joseph
Published: June 2021

Excessive lipid exposure is associated with various disease states, including severe obesity (BMI > 40 kg/m2), and can lead to insulin resistance. This whole‐body defect in insulin action following chronic lipid exposure is also observed at the cellular level, as myotubes from severely obese humans have a blunted response to insulin. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, has been proposed to improve these defects in insulin signaling; however, it is uncertain whether resveratrol can recover the acute and imprinted defects associated with lipid exposure. To examine this, human skeletal muscle cells were isolated from muscle biopsies obtained from lean (BMI = 21.21 ± 0.50 kg/m2) and severely obese (BMI = 53.41±1.61 kg/m2) individuals, and differentiated into myotubes. Myotubes were exposed to palmitate (0.45 mM) for 16 hours to induce insulin resistance in the presence or absence of resveratrol (0.2 μM). Myotubes were then treated with insulin (100 nM) and harvested for examination of insulin signaling. Palmitate suppressed insulin‐induced phosphorylation of AKT (Ser473) by 38% in lean myotubes, which was rescued with resveratrol treatment. Conversely, in comparison to lean controls, resveratrol treatment did not improve insulin action in obese myotubes. These data show that resveratrol treatment can enhance insulin signaling following acute lipid exposure; however, it cannot improve the inherent defects associated with severe obesity.
Incidence of Variations in Human Cadaveric Renal Vessels
Authors: Hassan Sherif , Johnson Jane , Youakeem Magdy
Published: June 2021

Objective

Knowledge of vascular variations of the human kidney is essential to avoid complications during operative procedures.

Methods

We examined the renal vasculature in 63 cadavers during routine cadaveric dissection. We recorded the number of renal vasculature and their anomalies. Percentages and exact 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to estimate the incidence of variations. A 2‐sample t test and Fisher exact tests were used to test for the association of variations with age at death, sex, and cause of death. A McNemar test was used to test whether additional renal vessels were more commonly found on one side or another.

Results

Anomalies of the renal vessels were found in 7 (11%; 95% CI, 5%‐22%) of the 63 cadavers. For the renal arteries, we observed the presence of the additional arteries unilaterally (5%) and arteries attached to both kidney poles (3%) or to the inferior pole only (2%). For the renal veins, we observed the presence of additional veins unilaterally (8%) and veins which drained both kidney poles (3%) or the inferior pole only (5%). Other kidneys showed different anomalies as double inferior vena cava (2%), abnormal gonadal veins (3%), early segmentation of the renal artery (2%), and abnormal common iliac veins (2%). There was no significant difference between those with and without anomalies of the renal vessels on sex (3/7 [43%] males vs. 29/56 [52%] males; P=.71) or age (mean [SD], 73 [15] years vs. 75 [13] years; P=.67).Renal failure was the only cause of death that was significantly different between those with and without anomalies (4/7 [57%] vs. 1/56 [2%]; P<.001).

Conclusion

The variation in renal vessels found is a valuable contribution from anatomical knowledge to operative procedures.
Metagenomic Profile of Fecal Samples Generated From Mouse Model Simulating Features of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Gautam Aarti , Hoke Allison , Sitta Ramsey , Sowe Bintu , Dimitrov George , Chakraborty Nabarun , Muhie Seid , Kumar Raina , Hammamieh Rasha , Jett Marti
Published: June 2021

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can arise due to exposure to a potentially traumatic event (PTE). Using “cage‐within‐cage resident‐intruder” protocol, subject C57BL/6J mice were exposed to aggressor mice for 10 days with 24 hours rest prior to harvesting. The symbiotic influence of microbiota on the nervous system and behavior has been receiving profound interest. In this longitudinal study, we are focusing on the effect of social stress on the microbiome by sequencing for 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) amplicon on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Fecal samples were collected at 2 day intervals during the 10 day protocol from control as well as subject mice. DNA was isolated using a kit from MO BIO followed by amplification of variable V3 and V4 region of the 16S rRNA amplicon using the Illumina 16S Metagenomics Library Preparation Protocol. The samples were barcoded using Nextera index primers and pooled in preparation for MiSeq sequencing. We will be able to characterize the fecal microbiota in the presence and absence of social stress and also will be able to correlate changes in bacterial communities in our mouse model of PTSD.

DISCLAIMERS: Research was conducted in compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and all other Federal Requirements. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Army.
The Synthesis and Application of Diarylhydrazones, Diaryl Schiff‐bases, Beta‐carbolines and Their Precursors as Potential Antibiotics
Authors: Horton William , D'Amico Kristina , Schaefer Christian , Haghshenas Bahareh , Torok Marianna , Beck Gregory , Torok Bela
Published: June 2021

Bacterial evolution is leading to an increasing number of antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria. As a result, antibiotics currently in use are becoming ineffective. FDA approval of new antibacterial compounds decreased drastically over the past decade. Thus the design and synthesis of new classes of antibacterial agents is highly desirable. In this work the antimicrobial effect of over 100 beta‐carbolines, diarylhydrazones, diaryl Schiff‐bases and their precursors have been evaluated. The products were characterized by mass spectrometry and 1H, 13C and, when applicable, 19F NMR spectroscopy. While the larger compounds were chosen due to their general biological activity, their precursors were screened as possible metabolites. Hydrolysis and mass spectrometric studies were also carried out under the generic assay conditions in order to determine the stability of the screened compounds. The compounds have been tested in standard cytotoxicity assays using Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus and Staphylococcus aureus strains. It was observed that the diarylhydrazones showed considerable activity against all three bacterial strains, while the beta‐carbolines and diaryl Schiff‐bases exhibited moderate to weak activity. The precursor compounds appeared to be inactive against the bacteria. The stability studies also indicated that the hydrazones as well as the Schiff‐bases remained stable under the assay conditions.
Differential effects of phytochemical shikonin on induction of immunogenic cell death versus autophagy: Potential application to DC‐based cancer vaccine.
Authors: Yang Ning‐Sun , Lin Sheng‐Yen , Wu Tzong‐Shoon
Published: June 2021

Tumor immunogenicity can be characterized by the exposure of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) on cell surface, which can recruit dendritic cells (DCs) and enhance DC maturation. Recent studies have demonstrated that chemotherapy‐induced autophagy may positively regulate immunogenic cell death (ICD). We recently showed that shikonin (SHK) can confer anti‐tumor activity and be employed as an adjuvant of DC‐based tumor vaccine via the induction of ICD. In this study, we investigated possible mechanistic correlation between SHK‐induced autophagy and SHK‐induced ICD for tumor immunogenicity. SHK enhanced ROS‐related cell death and increased the exposure of DAMP proteins on cell surface of test cells. SHK‐treated tumor cells activated the phagocytosis activity and the release of IL‐1β and IL‐6 from dendritic cells. SHK‐treated tumor cells as tumor vaccine reduced tumor growth and prolonged the survival of test mice. SHK reduced the proteasome activity to result in accumulating ubiquitinylated proteins and skewed to induce autophagy formation in tumor cells. The aggregation of SHK‐induced, ubiquitinylated proteins were found to co‐localize with p62 protein. Blockage of autolysosome formation via chloroquine (CQ) in SHK‐treated tumor cells further enhanced the expression of DAMPs on tumor cell surface. In addition, CQ and SHK cotreated tumor cells further enhanced the phagocytosis activity and CD40 and TLR4 expression of DC. The much enhanced immunogenicity and efficacy of SHK and CQ may create a compelling strategy, i.e., via the use of a combinational treatment, for developing DC‐based cancer vaccines.
Epidemiological Features of Ovarian Cancer Morbidity of Women in Kazakhstan
Authors: Kuanyshkaliyeva Ardak , Turgambayeva Assiya , Igissinov Nurbek
Published: June 2021

Ovarian cancer is 4‐6% among cancers in women and is ranked seventh in frequency.

In Kazakhstan, the death rate from cancer is the second largest in the structure of mortality. Every year about 17,000 people die of cancer, including 42% ‐ people of working age. Despite advances in modern medicine, there remains the annual increase in the number of patients with malignant tumors, with an average of 3.5% to 5%.

Research material included data of oncological institutions in the country, about new cases of ovarian cancer. Calculated crude, age and standardized incidence per 100 000 female population. Trends of the incidence are defined with the least squares method.

Over the study period in Kazakhstan were registered 8523 new cases of ovarian cancer. The age distribution was as follows: up to 30 years ‐ 544 (6.4%), 30‐39 ‐ 705 (8.3%), 40‐49 ‐ 1822 (21.4%), 50‐59 ‐ 2093 (24, 6%), 60‐69 ‐ 1919 (22.5%) and 70 years and over ‐ 1440 (16.9%). The average age of patients with ovarian cancer was 54,1 ± 0,2 years (T = ± 0.02%). In the dynamics of the average age of the patients had a slight tendency to “aging” (T = 0.02%). Crude incidence rate of ovarian cancer was 9,9 ± 0,1 (95% CI = 9.6‐10.2), and was statistically higher (p <0.05) than the ASR 9,0 ± 0,1 (95% CI = 8, 8‐9,2).

Thus, the incidence of ovarian cancer in Kazakhstan had a tendency to increase. In addition, for the age‐specific incidence revealed a unimodal growth with a peak incidence in the 60‐69 years, where the incidence trends were most pronounced. Further epidemiological study of ovarian cancer in Kazakhstan will be a priority for future research.
Identification of Amino Acids and Nucleotides Required for Interaction Between BAFF‐R and its RNA Aptamer
Authors: Lares Monica , Rossi John
Published: June 2021

Current cancer therapies such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can leave residual tumor cells and have off‐target effects. Aptamers are used in a type of targeted cancer therapy that more precisely identify and attack cancer cells, while leaving unaffected cells unharmed. In B‐cell malignancies, such as non‐Hodgkins lymphoma, there is increased expression of B‐cell activating factor (BAFF) and its receptor (BAFF‐R). Upon binding to its receptor, BAFF increases B‐cell proliferation and survival, allowing cancer cells to proliferate faster than normal B‐cells. An RNA aptamer has been identified that binds BAFF‐R with high specificity and affinity, blocking BAFF binding. The aptamer has also been shown to successfully deliver therapeutic siRNA that is taken up by the cell and causes significant knock down of its mRNA. The objective of this study is to identify the essential nucleotides and amino acids required for interaction between BAFF‐R and its RNA aptamer by synthesizing and purifying the RNA aptamer using PCR and in vitro transcription, and synthesizing and purifying WT BAFF‐R and mutants. Gel‐shift assays and RNase protection assays will be used to identify amino acids of BAFF‐R and the nucleotides of its RNA aptamer that are key for their interaction. This contribution is significant because it will provide the details that allow for fine‐tune engineering of aptamers to be used in target cancer therapies, thus improving quality of life and more successful clinical outcomes for patients will B‐cell malignancies. The proposed research is innovative, in our opinion, because this is a new way to target B‐cells that is currently underdeveloped and therefore under utilized.
Viscum album var Hot Water Extract Mediates Anti‐cancer Effect through G1 Phase arrest in SK‐Hep1 Human Hepatocarcinoma Cells
Authors: dela Cruz Joseph , Kim Yeon Soo , Hong Heeok , Hwang Seong‐Gu
Published: June 2021

Viscum album var (VAV) also known as mistletoe, has long been categorized as a traditional herbal medicine in Asia. In addition to its immunomodulating activities, mistletoe has also been used in the treatment of chronic hepatic disorders in China and Korea. There are numerous reports showing that VAV possesses anti‐cancer effects, however, the effect against human hepatocarcinoma have never been elucidated.The hot water extracts of VAV was evaluated for its potential anti‐cancer effect in vitro. SK‐Hep1 cells (5 X 104/well) were treated with VAV (50‐400ug/ml) for 24 hours, and then cell viability was measured. VAV dose dependently inhibited the proliferation of human hepatocarcinoma cells (SK‐Hep1). Flow cytometry analysis (FACS) of the cell cycle of SK‐Hep1 cells after a 48 hour treatment with various concentrations of VAV extract showed that VAV extract inhibited cell cycle of SK‐Hep1 cells via G1 phase arrest. RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis both revealed that CDK2 and Cyclin D1 gene expression were significantly down regulated while P21 was upregulated dose dependently by VAV treatment. These results indicate that VAV showed evidence of anti‐cancer activity through cell cycle arrest in SK‐Hep1cells.
Increased Mitochondrial Mutational Load Correlates with the Development of Type 2 Diabetes in the Nile Rat (Arvicanthis niloticus)
Authors: Osborne Adam , Wangh Lawrence , Hayes Kenneth
Published: June 2021

It is critically important to understand the molecular mechanisms of the development and progression of type 2 diabetes. One such mechanism could be mitochondrial dysfunction in organs such as the liver. It is not known if the buildup of mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) mutations (mutational load; ML) leads to dysfunction and diabetes, e.g. via insulin resistance brought about by mtDNA ML in the liver. The association between diabetes and hepatic mtDNA mutations was studied over the course of type 2 diabetes onset and progression in Nile rats, a novel model of diet‐induced diabetes that recapitulates the human disease. Age‐matched diabetic and non‐diabetic wild‐type rats were scored for disease incidence and severity using random blood glucose (RBG), hyperlipidemia, and hepatic pathology after 8‐21 weeks on diabetogenic diets after weaning. Hepatic mtDNA mutations were measured in the D‐loop and ND3 regions using digital LATE‐PCR with Lights‐On/Lights‐Off probes. Initial results showed that diabetic rats exhibited greater mutational load than the healthy controls. In separate studies mutations preceded the onset of diabetes (see intermediate rats) and palm fruit juice, an extract from the oil palm shown to delay diabetes in the Nile rat, reduced the number of mutations observed in diabetic rats (table). Mutational load did not correlate well with the severity of diabetes.

Status
(n)
RBG (mg/dl)
30’ OGTT (mg/dl)
Avg. ML
Liv%bdwt

Healthy
7
62 ± 9
205 ± 65
41 ± 10a, b
2.9 ± 0.3

Intermediate
7
77 ± 18
281 ± 76
70 ± 10a
2.6 ± 0.8

Diabetic
7
316 ± 214
527 ± 81
67 ± 10b
4.4 ± 0.8

Healthy
3
60 ± 30
NA
14 ± 7c, e
NA

Diabetic‐PFJ
3
372 ± 85
NA
67 ± 2c, d
NA

Diabetic+PFJ
3
239 ± 19
NA
30 ± 6c, d, e
NA

Intermediate Phenotype = low RBG levels, elevated oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Average liver weight as a percent of body mass.

This research implicates that mitochondria mutagenesis plays a role in disease onset. Such mtDNA damage may serve as a potential molecular biomarker for type 2 diabetes.

Supported by a grant from the Malaysian Palm Oil Board.
Characterization of Pokeweed Antiviral Protein (PAP) Isoforms and Comparison of Their Enzymatic Activities toward the Tobacco Etch Virus RNA
Authors: Aitbakieva Valentina , Domashevskiy Artem
Published: June 2021

Ribosome‐inactivating proteins (RIPs) are found in a wide range of plants. Their antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal biological activities point toward RIPs playing important roles in plant's defense mechanisms. RIPs are RNA N‐glycosidases. They specifically recognize and depurinate universally conserved sarcin/ricin (S/R) loop of the large rRNA. This leads to ribosomal inactivation and termination of protein synthesis. Phytolacca americana, the common pokeweed plant, produces pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP), a type 1 RIP. PAP possesses antiviral properties and inhibits translation of viral RNAs, including HIV‐1, influenza, poliovirus, brome mosaic virus (BMV) RNAs. PAP inhibits translation of capped RNAs by directly binding to the 5'‐cap of the RNA, and depurinating it downstream of the cap structure. The mechanism of uncapped viral RNA translation inhibition is not known. Pokeweed plant produces nine seasonal tissue‐distinct PAP isoforms. Some isoforms are known to exhibit stronger antiviral potential than others: PAP‐S, isolated from seeds. The exact mechanism of how PAP selects its viral RNA substrates for depurination is not well understood, and is of interest research. This study will provide a deeper understanding of the strategies used by plants to battle infectious pathogens, and may lead to the development of efficient plant antiviral agents, and to improvement of the applied solutions for the regulation of plant and animal diseases. Here, we isolate and characterize PAP isoforms and employ fluorescence spectroscopy and HPLC techniques to compare of their enzymatic activities toward tobacco etch virus (TEV) RNA.
Intracellular Triacylglycerol Promotes Longevity during Chronological Aging of Yeast
Authors: Handee Witawas , Li Xiaobo , Kuo Min‐Hao
Published: June 2021

Intracellular triacylglycerol (TAG) is a ubiquitous energy storing lipid also involved in lipid homeostasis and signaling. However, very little is known about TAG's function in other cellular processes. Here we show a novel anti‐senescence function of TAG in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Yeast strains derived from natural and laboratory environments exhibited a correlation in stationary phase between higher levels of TAG and increased chronological lifespan. Upregulation of stationary phase TAG abundance through the deletion of TAG lipases prolonged chronological lifespan of laboratory strains, while diminishing TAG biosynthesis shortened lifespan without significantly affecting vegetative growth. The observed increase in lifespan was independent of other known stress response factors involved in chronological aging. Because both lifespan regulation and TAG metabolism are conserved through evolution, the pro‐longevity function of TAG may extend to other organisms as well.
Sorting nexin 21 is a novel membrane‐binding endonuclease
Authors: Kim Hyunjin , Tao Shan , Song Seohyeon , Cho Wonhwa
Published: June 2021

Sorting nexin 21 (SNX21) is a cytosolic protein that contains phox homology (PX) domain. It is localized to early endosomes in a phosphatidylinositol‐3‐phosphate (PtdIns3P)‐dependent manner. Unlike other sorting nexins, SNX21 undergoes autolytic cleavage of the N‐terminal region upon cell activation and the truncated SNX21 translocates to nucleus where it function as a DNA endonuclease. To understand the structural basis of these unique functional properties of SNX21, we determined the crystal structures of full‐length and N‐terminal truncated SNX21. These structures provide an important clue to its cellular function and regulation. Collectively, our work suggests that SNX21 is a new class of novel lipid‐dependent endonuclease that may supplement or supplant caspase‐activated endonucleases under certain physiological conditions.
ATF6‐dependent Sestrin2 induction protects from ER stress‐mediated liver injury
Authors: Jegal Kyung Hwan , Park Sang Mi , Kim Jae Kwang , Kim Sang Chan , Cho Il Je
Published: June 2021

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER and it leads to a variety of liver damage including hepatic steatosis, alcohol‐induced liver disease, viral hepatitis. Sestrin 2 (Sesn2) is stress‐inducible protein and responses to hypoxia and oxidative stress. The present study investigated the role of Sesn2 on ER stress and its underlying mechanisms in hepatocytes. The treatment of thapsigargin (Tg) and tunicamycin (Tm), the representative ER stress inducer, led to increase of Sesn2 protein expression, mRNA and luciferase gene activity in HepG2 cells. Among signaling molecules in response to ER stress, ectopic expression of ATF6 increased Sesn2 promoter driven luciferase activity and Sesn2 protein expression. In addition, dominant negative mutant of ATF6 blocked the Tg or Tm‐mediated Sesn2 induction. ER stress‐mediated cytotoxicity was reduced in Sesn2 over‐expressed HepG2 cells. Furthermore, we investigated whether Sesn2 protects Tm‐induced liver injury in mice infected with a recombinant adenovirus Sesn2 (Ad‐Sesn2). Injection of Ad‐Sesn2 less severe hepatic injury as supported by decrease in ALT, AST, LDH, and hepatocyte degeneration. Thus, our result indicates that ATF6 is essential for ER stress‐mediated Sesn2 induction, and the Sesn2 induction protects hepatocytes from ER stress‐induced liver injury.
Virulence Modulation of Bordetella pertussis via Inhibition of the Nicotinate Degradation Pathway
Authors: Buyan Lauren , Snider Mark
Published: June 2021

Bordetella pertussis is the causative agent of whooping cough, which is a highly contagious respiratory illness that has recently increased in occurrence despite the widespread use of vaccines. Due to the increase in reported cases of whooping cough over the last decade, further studies on inhibiting the virulence pathways of B. pertussis are of great importance. Nicotinate is predicted to be a key modulator in the virulence factor expression of B. pertussis. As one of the key enzymes involved in the aerobic nicotinate degradation pathway of B. pertussis, NicC is involved in the oxidation of 6‐hydroxynicotinate to 2,5‐dihydroxypyridine and poses as a step by which B. pertussis virulence may be inhibited. Thus, we have developed a pSS‐4245 vector inserted with a construct containing a chloramphenicol resistance gene sequence. Through homologous recombination our goal was to incorporate our construct into the B. pertussis genome via E. coli cells containing the pSS‐4245 + CmR construct, and thus knock‐out the NicC gene. Gene sequencing confirms disruption of the NicC gene, and therefore creation of the desired knock‐out line, B. pertussis ΔNicC. Furthermore, we will use HPLC analysis to confirm B. pertussis ΔNicC's inability to degrade nicotinate. Upon successful creation of B. pertussis ΔNicC and inhibition of B. pertussis virulence, the virulence expression of B. pertussis will be better understood, leading the way for a more effective treatment of whooping cough.
Effects of miR‐99b and miR‐365 on Osteoclast Differentiation
Authors: Francis Cheryl‐ann , Delany Anne , Dole Neha , Griggs Nathan
Published: June 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short (~22 nucleotide) non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by decreasing the stability and/or translation of specific target mRNAs (Marco, 2011). There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that miRNAs play a critical role in the differentiation and function of osteoclasts, which are the cells responsible for bone resorption. Previously, we identified two miRNAs, miR‐99b and miR‐365, that were increased during osteoclast differentiation in vitro. In the present study, we evaluated the role of miR‐99b and miR‐365 in osteoclast differentiation by transfecting osteoclast precursors with inhibitors for these miRNAs. The effect of the inhibitors on RANKL‐mediated osteoclast differentiation was evaluated by staining for Tartrate‐Resistant Acid Phosphatase (TRAP), and quantifying TRAP‐positive multinucleated cells (osteoclasts). There was an increase in the number of osteoclasts in cells transfected with miR‐365 inhibitor, but decreased osteoclasts in cells transfected with miR‐99b inhibitor. Our results indicate that miR‐365 is a negative regulator of osteoclastogenesis, whereas miR‐99b is a positive regulator. microRNAs are key regulators of osteoclast differentiation.
Seasonal Variation of Taste Recognition Threshold in Young Females
Authors: Aso‐Someya Nami , Kanazawa Takumi , Kudo Fumiyo
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the present study was to reveal the seasonal effect on recognition thresholds of four primary taste modalities (sweet, salty, sour, and bitter). Twenty‐two healthy young females were participated in this study. All participants were performed taste recognition tests three times: in January 2014 (winter‐1), July 2014 (summer), and January 2015 (winter‐2). We assessed the taste threshold by using the Taste disk®, i.e., round shape filter papers soaked with sucrose (0.3, 2.5, 10, and 20 %), NaCl (0.3, 1.25, 5, and 10 %), tartaric acid (0.02, 0.2, 2, and 4 %), and quinine (0.001, 0.02, 0.1, and 0.5 %) solutions, and the Salsave®, i.e., stick type of filter papers containing NaCl (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.5 mg/cm2). In the test using the Taste disk®, the taste recognition thresholds did not change in most of the subjects for all tastants throughout the seasons. On the other hand, in the Salsave® test, the recognition threshold of salty taste decreased from winter‐1 to summer in 17 of 22 subjects, and increased from summer to winter‐2 in 16 of 22 subjects. The average threshold in summer (0.08 ± 0.01 mg/cm2) was significantly lower than that in winter‐1 (0.16 ± 0.02 mg/cm2) and winter‐2 (0.15 ± 0.02 mg/cm2) (p<0.05). These results suggested that salty taste can be more sensitively detected in summer than winter.
Influence of Metabolic Genotyping on Weight Loss and Body Composition in Women Participating in a 6 Month Diet and Exercise Program: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Sanchez B , Coletta A , Galvan E , Dalton R , O'Connor A , Koozehchian M , Reyes A , Goodenough C , Cho M , Jung Y , Levers K , Simbo S , Springer S , Wilkins L , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

This study examined whether genetic profile influences response to a diet and exercise intervention. 53 sedentary women (38±12 yrs, 80.8±13.9 kg) were randomized to a control group (C) or exercise + diet groups. Those in exercise groups performed circuit resistance‐exercise (4 d/wk) and walked (10,000 steps, 3 d/wk). Diets were 1,500 kcal/d with 20:35:45 (CI), 30:25:45 (CII) or 55:30:15 (AHA) percentages of CHO:FAT: PRO. Buccal cheek swabs were obtained at baseline and analyzed for FABP2, PPARG, ADRB‐79, ADRB3, and ADRB‐46 genes to determine true (T) or false (F) genetic matches to higher CHO or CHO restricted diets. Body weight and DEXA body composition measurements were obtained at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 wks. Data were analyzed by MANOVA and are presented as changes from baseline. An overall Wilk's Lambda time x diet (p=0.085) and time x diet x genotype (p=0.102) trend was observed. Univariate analysis revealed significant interaction trends in fat mass (C: 0.39±1.26; CI: T ‐6.16±5.04, F ‐1.58±2.22; CII: T ‐5.03±2.8, F ‐4.2±3.3; AHA: T ‐3.60±2.5, F ‐5.24±4.0 kg, p=0.06) and percent body fat (C: 0.15±1.61; CI: T ‐4.95±4.26, F ‐1.44±2.68; CII: T ‐3.50±3.17, F ‐4.87±3.08; AHA: T ‐3.23±2.81, F ‐4.32±3.43 kg, p=0.10) while weight was not significantly affected (C: 0.92±2.19; CI: T ‐6.75±6.38, F ‐2.22±2.37; CII: T ‐5.64±3.40, F ‐2.74±4.37; AHA: T ‐4.36±2.68, F ‐5.65±4.94 kg, p=0.33). Preliminary findings suggest that women participating in a 6 month diet and exercise program may experience greater changes in body composition when diet type is matched to genetic metabolic profile.
Acute Hemodynamic, Hematologic and Dose Effects of Ingesting Two Creatine Nitrate Based Dietary Supplements
Authors: Galvan E , Jung Y , Cho M , O'Connor A , Chang C , Koozehchian M , Goodenough C , Barringer N , Ayadi F , Walker D , Simbo S , Dalton R , Levers K , Garcia E , Mitchell C , Rasmussen C , Greenwood M , Murano P , Earnest C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

Our aim was to examine the acute (5 h) hemodynamic (HR & BP) and hematologic profiles for a (1) Placebo (PL), (2) Creatine (CR, 5 g), (3) Creatine Nitrate (CrN; 1 g CR; 0.5 N) and (4) CrN2X (2 g CR; 1.0 g N) formula administered in a randomized, double‐blind manner with 7d of washout between treatments. Participants (N=13; 22 ± 2 y) presented for testing after abstaining from exercise and fasting for 8 h. Initial unsupplemented measures (Time 0) were assessed, followed by supplement ingestion and serial sampling (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5h). Variables included heart rate, blood pressure, liver (ALP, AST, ALT), kidney (creatinine, BUN), and muscle (CK, LDH) enzymes, glucose and blood lipids. Analyses included GLM and LSD post‐hoc procedures. Significant within group perturbations were noted for LDL‐C (CR, PL), HDL‐C (CrN, CrN2X), triglycerides (CrN2X, PL), glucose (CrN2X), creatinine (all), CK (CrN2X, PL), BUN (all), ALT (PL) over the 5h study period (all, P < 0.03). Corresponding between group differences (all, P<0.05) were noted for LDL‐C (CrN2x vs. PL, 5h), HDL‐C (CrN vs. CrN2X, 4h), TG (CrN2X vs. PL, T0), glucose (CrN vs. CrN2X, 2h), CK (CrN vs. PL, 2h), and ALT (CR vs. CrN2X, 4h). At no time did any analyte exceed clinically normal ranges. Given a lack of consistent patterning for any analyte we have demonstrated that CR, CR, CrN and CrN2x are well tolerated and do not adversely affect hemodynamic or hematologic function when acutely ingested.
Identifying New Targets And Biomarkers For Nutritional Interventions With Global Metabolomics
Authors: Karoly Edward
Published: June 2021

In order to devise and develop the nutritional interventions of the future preclinical research aims to approximate an expected effect in humans to define biomarkers, targets, or the efficacy of an intervention. Clinical research aims to elucidate the same type of information in the more relevant, but less controlled, scenario. The information converges around translational science. The use of metabolomics for translational science is increasing; particularly in nutrition research. In nutrition research metabolomics has even greater relevance since, in addition to accounting for genetics, it can account for microbiota and diet/lifestyle/environmental influences. Hence, it is valuable for understanding how exogenous treatments (dietary, prebiotic, probiotic) influence the host in the context of all of these inputs. Further, due to the conservation of metabolism, the biomarkers are highly translatable, further increasing the utility of metabolomics in translational studies. Illustrating this will be recent results in which new targets (microbiota‐related, endogenous metabolic targets) and intervention strategies (probiotics, supplements) have been elucidated in preclinical studies using metabolomics. In the preclinical realm the metabolic biomarkers are often used to hone‐in on a target. In clinical studies, metabolomic biomarkers are also used to monitor efficacy, compliance and pharmacokinetics. Highlighting the inception of the use of these types of clinical biomarkers will be recent biomarker discoveries in clinical cohorts.
DHA/EPA Consumption by Pregnant Women in Louisiana
Authors: Thaxton Carly , Drewery Merritt , Gaitan Adriana , Pinkston Rakeysha , Seidemann Ericka , Elkind‐Hirsch Karen , Durham Holiday , Lammi‐Keefe Carol
Published: June 2021

Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 recommends consumption of 8‐12 oz of seafood/week for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding to achieve an average DHA+EPA intake of 200‐250 mg/day. In an on‐going study of overweight pregnant women in Louisiana we assessed, by repeated 24‐hour dietary recalls using the U of Minnesota Nutrient Data System for Research (NDSR), intake of seafood and fatty acids. Women were 20‐34 y of age and entered the study at 17‐20 wks of pregnancy. Depending on when women had been recruited into the study, women to date had completed 1‐7 recalls. On average, women (n=8) consumed 46 mg/day of dietary DHA+EPA and with supplementation, 225 mg (n=7). The range of dietary DHA+EPA intake, without supplementation (prenatals /other commercially available supplements) was 8‐101 mg/day and with supplementation, 72‐408 mg/day. Without supplementation with DHA+EPA, 8/8 of the women were consuming <200 mg/day DHA+EPA. Seven of 8 women reported supplementation and 2 of 7 women who supplemented consumed <200 mg DHA+EPA/day. Fish consumed included shrimp, crab, catfish, and fish sticks. The data point to a need for nutrition education for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and women of childbearing ages regarding the importance of consuming fish varieties that are good sources of long chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Funded in part by: LSU Undergraduate Research Grant (C Thaxton); USDA AFRI 2012‐67017‐19293 (CJL‐K); and LSU AgCenter.
Intake of Fish and n‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Risk of Cognitive Deficit From Mild Impairment to Severe Disease: Dose‐response Meta‐analysis of 24 Independent Cohort Studies
Authors: Zhang Yu , Jiao Jingjing
Published: June 2021

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the intake of fish and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and the risk of cognitive deficit.

Methods

The Pubmed and Embase databases were searched. Studies reporting risk estimates for cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia, Parkinson's disease (PD), or Alzheimer's disease (AD) from fish, total PUFA, total n‐3 PUFA, or at least one n‐3 PUFA were included. The summary relative risks (RR) were estimated by categorical and dose‐response analysis.

Results

Twenty‐four cohort studies (29 publications) with a total population of 218 145 were included. The dietary intake of fish was inversely associated with the risk of cognitive deficit (RR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.76, 0.88). Additionally, a 20 g/day or 1 serving/week increment of daily fish was associated with 11% and 9% lower risks of cognitive deficit, respectively. Two types of marine n‐3 PUFA were significantly associated with the risk of cognitive deficit (EPA: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82, 0.98; DHA: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.99), but their associations did not appear to be significant in a dose‐response effect. The plant n‐3 PUFA ALA was not categorically associated with the risk of cognitive deficit, but a 0.1 g/day increment of ALA intake led to a 2% reduction of the risk in the dose‐response meta‐analysis.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggested a protective effect of fish consumption on cognitive deficit. Marine‐derived n‐3 PUFA was associated with the risk of cognitive deficit, but not in a dose‐response way.
Does Stage of Change Mediate the Impact of a Motivator to Increase Activity Levels among College Students?
Authors: Badger Jordan , Morrell Jesse , Biondolillo Mathew , Pillemer David , Cook Summer
Published: June 2021

Activation of a motivational memory has been shown to increase reported physical activity in college students. It is unknown if this motivator impacts activity level depending on students' stage of change for physical activity. This study investigates if the use of a positive or negative motivator increases physical activity in undergraduates (ages 18‐24) in the precontemplative/contemplative (P/C) and preparation (P) stages of change for activity, compared to those in action (A) and maintenance (M) stages of change. Students (n=295) recruited from an introductory nutrition course in fall 2014 completed all study components (77% female). Stages of change were measured via online questionnaire at baseline. Students were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions: positive memory prompt (n=99), negative memory prompt (n=95), or control (n=101). Students' activity levels were measured for 7 days via pedometer (New Lifestyles, SW401). At baseline, 57% of students classified themselves in M stage of change, 18% in A, 11% in P, and 13% in P/C stage. On average, students took 8,426 steps/day. Group differences were analyzed between PC&P stages vs. A&M stages. Students in PC&P took less steps/day vs. students in A&M (7,353 vs. 8,773 steps, p<.05). Average number of steps/day was not affected by the use of a motivator in either the PC&P or A&M groups. Though a positive or negative memory did not increase physical activity levels, students' average steps per day differed by their stage of change for physical activity. Findings suggest there is a relationship between stage of change classification and students' activity level.
Cognition and Synaptic‐Plasticity Related Changes in Aged Rats Supplemented With 8‐ and 10 Carbon Medium Chain Triglycerides
Authors: Wang Dongmei , Pannerec Alice , Feige Jerome , Christinat Nicholas , Masoodi Mojgan , Mitchell Ellen
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Previous studies have shown that cognition is improved by providing AD patients with an alternate energy source: ketones derived from either ketogenic diet or supplementation with medium chain triglycerides (MCT). Recently, data on the neuroprotective capacity of MCT‐derived medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) suggest octanoic and decanoic acid have direct, cognition‐enhancing properties unrelated to ketone production.

Methods

We investigated the cognitive and weight effect of MCT‐8, MCT‐10 or sunflower oil (5%) over 8 weeks in 21 month old male Wistar rats.

Results

Decanoic acid levels in plasma of MCT‐10‐treated rats were higher than of octanoic acid levels in plasma of MCT‐8‐treated rats, indicating a possible slower metabolism of MCFA‐10. Social recognition was improved in both MCT arms compared to the control arm (p<0.02), but only the MCT‐10 group demonstrated improved novel object recognition memory (p<0.04) compared to control. qPCR analysis of cortex transcription showed that genes related to synaptic plasticity (Arc, Egr2, Plk3) were downregulated by both MCT treatments, while only the MCT‐8 diet increased beta‐glucosidase (Gba2) and voltage‐gated sodium channels (Scn5a). Interestingly, only MCT‐8 treatment increased forebrain IRS‐1 phosphorylation (pS312) and synaptophysin, and only MCT‐10 treatment increased Akt phosphorylation (pS473).

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that treatment of 8‐ and 10‐carbon length MCTs in aged rats have differential effects on genes, protein expression and behavior that may be independent of ketone production.
Reduced Sedentary Time and Associated Changes in Dietary Quality and Caloric Intake
Authors: Jepson Kelsey , Rosenkranz Sara , Mailey Emily , Rosenkranz Richard
Published: June 2021

Evidence from physical activity interventions suggests that women, in particular, may overcompensate for exercise energy expenditure with added caloric intake, reducing efficacy for weight loss. Sedentary behavior and poor diet quality are risk factors for cardiometabolic disease. It is unknown whether physically inactive women alter caloric intake or dietary quality when they reduce sedentary behavior. The aim of this study was to determine whether dietary patterns would change following an intervention intended to reduce sedentary behavior in inactive women. Inactive women working full‐time sedentary jobs (n=29) were randomized into one of two 8‐week interventions occurring during the work week [short breaks (1‐2 min every half hour, n=12) or long breaks (15 min twice daily, n=17)]. Assessments occurred at baseline, and weeks 4 and 8. Dietary information was collected via 3‐day food records. Dietary quality was assessed using the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI). Analyses of all participants revealed no change in AHEI scores over time (baseline: 54.0±15.1, week 4: 51.5±11.3, week 8: 47.3±12.2, p>0.05). Caloric consumption was not significantly different at week 4 (p>0.05), but was decreased at week 8 (baseline: 1809.7±488.0, week 4: 1682.3±622.8, week 8: 1625.4±554.2 kcals/day, p=0.04). Following an 8‐week sedentary intervention in the workplace, inactive women did not alter their dietary quality, but decreased caloric intake. Future research should explore sedentary interventions compared to physical activity interventions in women, as reductions in sedentary time (without caloric compensation or negative effects on dietary quality) may be effective for improving health outcomes.
Liquid vs. Solid Added Sugar Intake and Measures of Adiposity Among U.S. Teens
Authors: Brumme Christina , Welsh Jean
Published: June 2021

Background

Sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption has been linked to increased adiposity but it is unknown if a similar association exists with sugars consumed in foods. The purpose of this study was to determine if the association between sugars and adiposity differs by the physical form in which they are consumed.

Methods

Data from one 24‐hour dietary recall was used to estimate the intake of added sugars in foods and in beverages among 1,796 adolescent participants (12‐19 y) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009‐2010. Weighted linear regression and analytical methods that account for the complex sampling methods were used to test the association between sugar intake and body‐mass‐index percentile (BMI%) and waist circumference (WC).

Results

Mean added sugar intake was 16.2 tsp/daily in foods (solid) and 19.9 tsp/daily in beverages (liquid). In a Model I controlling for demographics, physical activity, BMI% or WC, total energy, fat, and other carbohydrate intake, each additional teaspoon of liquid added sugar was associated with greater WC. This association was maintained when total energy was added in Model 2 (WC +0.07 cm per each tsp liquid sugar; p=0.03). There was no significant association between liquid sugars and BMI% or between solid sugars and either WC or BMI% in either Model 1 or 2.

Conclusion

The results of this cross‐sectional analysis demonstrate a positive association between liquid sugar consumption and WC but show no association between liquid sugar and BMI percentile or between solid sugars and either WC or BMI.
Nudging Adolescents towards Plant‐Based Foods within a School Food Environment
Authors: Ensaff H , Homer M , Sahota P , Braybrook D , Coan S , McLeod H
Published: June 2021

With growing evidence for the health benefits of a plant‐based diet, and adolescents' diets typically marked by poor food choices, this study's objective was to evaluate the impact of changes to the choice architecture within a secondary school canteen on students' plant‐based food choices.
A set of small changes to nudge students towards specific food items (whole fruit, fruit salad, vegetarian main meals, sandwiches containing salad) was implemented for six weeks during the academic year 2013‐14. Data (>200 000 transactions) from the cashless system employed in the school canteen enabled students' food choices (980 students) for the academic year (188 days) to be examined. Students' selections at baseline (29‐week period), intervention (6‐week period) and post‐intervention (3‐week period) were compared.
Selection of the designated food items increased significantly during the intervention and post‐intervention periods compared to baseline (baseline 1.2%; intervention 2.9%; post‐intervention 2.2%) χ2(2)=328.18, p<0.001. Logistic regression analysis revealed the independent effect of the intervention on the uptake of these items. Controlling for student year group, free school meal entitlement (a measure of socioeconomic status), day of the week and price – students were 2.5 times more likely (p<0.001) to select the designated items during the intervention period, than at baseline.
Small changes to the choice architecture nudged students towards more plant‐based food choices. The results evidence the role schools and choice architecture can play in improving adolescents' dietary behavior.

Grant Funding Source: Alpro Foundation
Association of Lunch Meat Consumption and Diet Quality in U.S. Children and Adults: NHANES 2007‐2010
Authors: Fulgoni Victor , Agarwal Sanjiv , Berg Eric
Published: June 2021

The association of lunch meat consumption with diet quality [Healthy Eating Index‐2010 (HEI)] was examined in children (2‐18 yrs; n=5,099) and adults (19+ yrs; n=10,216) using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2007‐2010. Lunch meat consumers (children n=920; adults n=1,833) were defined as those consuming any amount of 39 lunch meat food codes during the 24 h recall. ANOVA was performed and adjusted means ± standard errors determined (covariates: age, gender ethnicity, poverty income ratio, physical activity level, smoking status, and alcohol intake) using sample weights setting p<0.01 as significant. There was no difference in total HEI comparing lunch meat consumers and non‐consumers in children (45.7 ± 0.6 vs. 46.0 ± 0.4) or adults (48.8 ± 0.5 vs. 49.4 ± 0.4). In children, the HEI subcomponents scores for total fruit (0.3), whole fruit (0.4), whole grains (0.6), dairy (0.6), and total protein foods (0.7) were higher in lunch meat consumers while subcomponent scores for seafood and plant protein (‐0.4), fatty acid ratio (‐0.7) and sodium (‐2.0) were lower than non‐consumers. In adults, the subcomponents scores for total fruit (0.2), whole grains (0.7), dairy (0.8), and total protein foods (0.4) were higher in lunch meat consumers while subcomponent scores for greens and beans (‐0.2), seafood and plant protein (‐0.4), fatty acid ratio (‐0.6) and sodium (‐1.8) were lower than non‐consumers. While total HEI scores were not different among consumers and non‐consumers of lunch meat, the changes in subcomponent scores may provide information for improved incorporation of lunch meats in diets of U.S. children and adults. Support provided by the North American Meat Institute.
Hydration Status and Voluntary Fluid Intake in College‐Age Gymnasts Training in a Hot Environment
Authors: Hasegawa Hiroyuki , Fujihara Toshiyuki , Mukumoto Masanobu , Tawara Hiroaki , Okamura Koji
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the hydration status and voluntary fluid intake among college age gymnasts practicing in a hot environment to establish the optimal guidelines on hydration for gymnasts. Since the duration of training sessions for gymnasts tends to be quite long, we hypothesized that gymnasts would not be able to maintain a sufficient hydration status during such training sessions. Twenty‐two college age gymnasts (10 males (M) and 12 females (F), mean age 20.7 (SD 1.6) years) participated in this study. The subjects were allowed to consume their usual drinks ad‐libitum during the training, and the intake was measured. The body mass (BM) significantly decreased in both M (M = ‐1.4 (0.6)%) and F (‐0.7 (0.7)%) after the training (P < 0.05). In terms of the body temperature and urine osmolality, there was no significant difference before and after the training. The urine specific gravity (USG) was significantly higher after the training (M = 1.036 (0.004), F = 1.034 (0.004)) than before the training (M = 1.030 (0.006), F = 1.027 (0.005)). The fluid intake was 549.6 (331.6) ml/5.5hrs for M and 1463.1 (424.8) ml/4.5hrs for F. These results demonstrated that college age gymnasts showed a BM decrease of less than 2% after the training in the hot environment, and the hydration status did not differ before and after the training. The USG, however, was greater than 1.025 even before the training in many gymnasts, suggesting that these athletes were dehydrated according to the ACSM guidelines.