bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation on indicators of membrane fluidity
Authors: Carughi Arianna , Huynh Liem T , Perelman Dalia
Published: June 2021

Membrane fluidity is a central aspect of cell physiology that can be modulated by fatty acid (FA) intake. Increasing dietary omega‐3 fatty acids (n‐3 FA) increases n‐3 FA in membrane phospholipids, which in turn may influence the fluidity and permeability of the plasma membrane and mitochondrial bilayers. The altered membrane biodynamics may explain molecular mechanisms underlying health effects associated with n‐3 FA and may affect cellular energy production. We investigated the effect of low levels of marine‐sourced n‐3 FA supplementation on selected indicators of membrane fluidity in healthy volunteers. Specifically, we looked at the ratio of saturated to polyunsaturated FA, % saturated FA, % lignoceric and nervonic acids (C24:0 + 24:1 n‐9), % omega‐7 FA and % docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 n3) in red blood cell (RBC) membranes. Thirty one men and women took a daily supplement providing 1070 mg total n‐3 FA, including 480 mg docosahexaenoic acid, for 8 weeks. Subjects were asked not to change their diet or exercise pattern. Results are shown below. Of the selected indicators of membrane fluidity measured, only % DHA in RBC was significantly higher after the eight weeks of supplementation (p<0.05). This study shows that supplementation with low levels of marine sourced n‐3 FA increases % DHA in RBC membranes. This increase may alter membrane fluidity and so enhance cellular energy output and affect vital membrane processes such as transport and signalling.
Prediction of biological docosahexanoic status using novel and traditional dietary assessment tools
Authors: Filipowicz Rebecca , Foster Randal , Campbell Christina
Published: June 2021

Maternal intake of docosahexanoic acid (DHA) is associated with fetal neurodevelopment. Limited data exists to identify the appropriate dietary assessment tool for DHA. We aim to determine the relationship between DHA intake and status in non‐coastal pregnant women.

Dietary data were collected using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a weighed 3 day diet record (3dDR) (week 28 of gestation). Maternal blood was analyzed for DHA in plasma phospholipids (PL), red blood cell phosphatidylethanolamine (PE)(adjusted for plasmalogen) and phosphatidylcholine (PC). Fits were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients (SAS, Cary, NC). Level of significance was P<0.05.

Overall (n=31) DHA intake for the FFQ and blood fractions were significant (PL: R=0.565, P<0.001; PC: R=0.697, P<0.0001, PE: R=0.391, P<0.05) compared to 3dDR results (PL: R=0.524, P<0.005, PC: R=0.618, P<0.001, PE: R=0.064, NS). Data were separated into two groups: 1) >200 mg DHA/d for FFQ and 3dDR (n=12) or 2) <200 mg DHA/d on 1 or both measures (n=19). For Group 1, the FFQ correlated with PL (R=0.583, P<0.05) and PC (R=0.599, P<0.05) but not PE. For Group 2, the FFQ and PC (R=0.463, P<0.05) were significantly correlated.

The FFQ is the preferred assessment tool because it more accurately reflects biological status and can better quantify lower DHA intake.

Grant Funding Source: P20 RR‐16455‐07 from the NCRR, a component of the NIH.
Differences in maternal serum fatty acid composition and dietary fat intake in women with gestational diabetes or mild gestational hyperglycemia
Authors: Chen Xinhua , Scholl Theresa O , Leskiw Maria , Savaille Juanito , Stein T Peter
Published: June 2021

We examined maternal serum fatty acid (FA) composition and dietary fat intake in a nested case‐control study in 227 women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), positive glucose challenge test without GDM (positive GCT non‐GDM) and normal GCT (controls).

Fasting total serum FAs and FA composition at entry (16wk) and 3rd trimester was determined by a combination of enzymatic and gas‐chromatography mass‐spectrometry analyses. The mean levels of total FA and FA composition (10 FAs) at the 3rd trimester showed an graded increase among groups (e.g. total FA: 325±19, 357±21, 419±28; palmitate: 117±6, 128±7, 148±9; oleic: 88±7, 100±8, 120±10; linoleic: 44±3, 48±3, 59±5; linolenic: 1.5±0.1, 1.7±0.1, 2.1±0.2; arachidonic: 1.3±0.1, 1.6±0.1, 2.0±0.2 μM/l (mean±SE) for controls, positive GCT non‐GDM and GDM respectively (p for trend <0.01). Similar relations were observed at entry for total FA and 3 FAs. In contrast, dietary intake of polyunsaturated fat (g/day, adjusted for energy and total fat intake) was decreased in GDM (12±0.7), positive GCT non GDM (14±0.6) vs. controls (15±0.5, p<0.05) and intake of saturated fat was increased in GDM (34±0.7), positive GCT non GDM (33±0.6) vs. controls (32±0.5, p<0.01).

The results suggest alterations in the type of dietary fat intake and possibly important changes in fat metabolism with untreated mild gestational hyperglycemia (positive GCT non‐GDM) as well as GDM pregnancy.
“En Balance” Program Successfully Improves Blood Glucose Control and Body Composition in Hispanics with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Salto Lorena Mariori , Beeson Lawrence , Firek Anthony , Shulz Eloy , DeLeon Marino , Cordero‐MacIntyre Zaida
Published: June 2021

O: Assess the impact of a culturally‐appropriate diabetes education program for Hispanics with diabetes.

M: Subjects participated in a 3‐month study. Blood glucose, cholesterol levels, anthropometric and DXA values were obtained at baseline and 3‐months. Paired t‐tests were used to compare baseline and 3‐month means. Group 1 (n=34) finished the study 2 years before Group 2 (n=26).

R: Group 1 (n=34) had a baseline mean age of 52yrs ±9.56, mean wt of 81.25kg ±17.91, and mean BMI of 32.18kg/m2 ±7.02. In both genders, %HbA1c (7.87 ± 0.2 vs. 7.08 ± 1.6, p≤0.001), fasting blood glucose mg/dL (166 ± 65.9 vs. 143.21 ± 57.8, p=0.003), leptin μg/mL (19.55 ± 14.9 vs. 16.34 ± 12.6, p=0.002), body wt(kg) (81.22 ± 17.90 vs. 80.31 ± 17.95, p=0.015), & total body fat(kg) (30.41 ± 10.68 vs. 29.50 ± 10.52, p≤0.001) decreased. Group 2 (n=26) had a baseline mean age of 54yrs ± 12.7, mean wt of 81.9kg ± 16.3, and mean BMI of 31.3kg/m2 ± 6.5. In both genders, %HbA1c (8.5% ±2.3 vs. 7.6% ±1.6 p=.007) & hip circumference (cm) decreased (107.2 ±14 vs. 105.8 ±13 p=.044). C: The En Balance Diabetes Education Program improved blood glucose control and body composition in Hispanics with Type 2 diabetes.
Nutritional Status, Knowledge about Diet Therapy according to Age, Education Level in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Korea.
Authors: Doo Miae , Cha Seung‐Sil , Kim Yangha
Published: June 2021

In this study, the nutritional status, score of knowledge about diet therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes were investigated. The subjects were 100 patients with type 2 diabetes (male 61 female 39) aged between 30–70 years, living in Chungbuk area, Korea. Anthropometric measurements, nutrient intake using a food frequency questionnaire, score of knowledge about diet therapy were analyzed according to age, education level. The intakes of daily protein (P<0.05), sodium (P<0.01), calcium (P<0.05), phosphorus(P<0.05), vitamin B2 (P<0.05), vitamin B6 (P<0.05), folate (P<0.05), and vitamin E (P<0.05) were significantly different according to age. The score of knowledge about diet therapy was significantly decreased with increasing age (P<0.001). The subjects with higher education level showed higher in the score of knowledge about diet therapy (P<0.001). These results suggest that age, education level of the subjects may affect on the nutritional status, score of knowledge about diet therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
What is the minimal nutrition education dosage to achieve behavior change for SNAP‐Ed participants?
Authors: Zubieta Ana Claudia , Conway Cynthia A , Shertzer Julie A , Paddock Joan Doyle , Dollahite Jamie
Published: June 2021

SNAP‐Ed increases the ability of low‐income families to make healthy food choices with the long‐term objective of preventing diet‐related diseases through nutrition education. As a national program, SNAP‐Ed needs to make the best use of its available resources. The dosage of nutrition education lessons needed to achieve measurable behavior change is unknown. This study aims to define the minimum nutrition education dosage needed to achieve measurable behavior change in SNAP‐Ed participants. Self‐reported (n=28) degrees of behavior change on four indicators on fruits and vegetables consumption were measured using the Ohio SNAP‐Ed Fruit and Vegetable Retrospective Questionnaire at four time points (baseline, after 1 lesson, after 3 lessons, and after 6 lessons). Univariate repeated measures ANOVA showed a positive and significant dosage effect from 1 lesson to 6 lessons on “eating fruits and vegetables of different colors each day” (p ≤ 0.011); “eating more than one kind of fruit each day” (p ≤ 0.003); and “eating fruits and vegetables as snacks” (p ≤ 0.008). The effect of dosage for “eating more than one kind of vegetable each day” approached significance (p ≤ 0.077). These findings indicate that more lessons on fruits and vegetables consumption leads to greater behavior change in up to six lessons. At this point we are unable to identify a ceiling beyond 6 lessons.
Endorsing healthier nutritional choices on a college campus: Perceptions of and by student athlete endorsers
Authors: Ressler William Harris , Williams Wenmouth , Lindberg Michael , McCabe Rebecca
Published: June 2021

Background

Past research has examined target audience reactions to celebrity endorsement, but has rarely studied reactions of the endorsers themselves.

Method

College athletes designed and appeared in point‐of‐purchase advertising at campus vending machines. Interviews with the athlete endorsers, before and after the campaign, explore their reasons for and reactions to participating in the promotion. Surveys of student athletes and non‐athletes, along with focus groups conducted with (a) non‐athletes and (b) athletes who did not participate in the campaign, provide peer reactions to the campaign and to the athletes’ role in it.

Results

The data expose athletes’ perceptions of social responsibility, social learning, and social identity. They underscore the effects of visibly promoting a cause on athletes’ self‐esteem and social identities on campus, an important but understudied consequence of athletes’ endorsing healthier nutritional choices.

Conclusion

Overall, the results offer directions for (a) effectively building athletes’ self‐esteem and social identification, by engaging them in activities such as nutritional promotion, and (b) designing more effective nutrition education interventions, by learning how better to engage endorsers.
Use of dietary supplements by cardiologists, dermatologists and orthopedists: results of a survey
Authors: Dickinson Annette , Boyon Nicolas , Shao Andrew
Published: June 2021

The “Life…supplemented” Healthcare Professionals 2008 Impact Study surveyed physician usage of dietary supplements. The survey was conducted online by Ipsos Public Affairs for the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), a trade association representing the dietary supplement industry. Respondents were 900 physicians, including 300 each from three specialties – cardiology, dermatology, and orthopedics. Over half of cardiologists (57%) said they use dietary supplements at least occasionally, as did 75% of dermatologists and 73% of orthopedists. The product most commonly used was a multivitamin, but over 25% in each specialty used omega‐3 fatty acids and over 20% used some herbal/botanical supplement. Regular dietary supplement use was reported by 37% of cardiologists, 59% of dermatologists, and 50% of orthopedists. Fully 72% of cardiologists, 66% of dermatologists, and 91% of orthopedists reported recommending supplements to their patients. The primary reason given for recommending dietary supplements to patients was to lower cholesterol or for heart health (cardiologists); benefits for skin, hair and nails (dermatologists); and bone and joint health (orthopedists). Dietary supplement use was relatively common in this sample of physicians, and when they recommended dietary supplements to patients, they tended to do so for reasons related to their specialty. Funded by CRN.
Bone mineral density in US adults in relation to urinary isoflavone excretion: secondary analysis using the National Nutrition and Health Examination Survey (NHANES) data
Authors: Frankenfeld Cara Lea
Published: June 2021

The NHANES provides a rich data source to efficiently evaluate correlates of health outcomes. Analysis of health in relation to objective measures of soy intake, such as urinary isoflavone concentrations, is challenged by differences in host intestinal bacterial profile. Some, but not all, individuals harbor bacteria capable of metabolizing the isoflavone daidzein to equol and O‐desmethylangolensin (ODMA). To assess the impact of controlling for daidzein excretion, associations of categorical and continuous measures of urinary equol, ODMA, daidzein, equol:daidzein, and ODMA:daidzein with bone mineral density (BMD) were evaluated in three NHANES data releases that were combined (1999–2004). Age‐ and sex‐adjusted total BMD in 3889 adults was positively associated with increasing quartiles of ODMA:daidzein (p=0.02) and ODMA concentration (p=0.01), but not with continuous ODMA:daidzein (p=0.38) and not as strongly with continuous ODMA concentration (p=0.08). BMD was positively associated with equol concentration (p<0.01), but not as strongly with quartiles of equol concentration (p=0.06). BMD was not associated with daidzein concentration or equol:daidzein. Additional analyses will evaluate BMD in relation to urinary isoflavone measures stratified by sex and race/ethnicity groups, and with all analyses stratified by categories of isoflavone intake calculated from the dietary interview.
An evaluation of the protein adequacy of typical U.S. vegetarian diets
Authors: Johnston Carol S , Williams Megan
Published: June 2021

The 2005 Food and Nutrition Board/Institute of Medicine (FNB/IOM) report utilized the protein digestibility corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) to evaluate the protein quality of vegetarian diets and concluded that the protein recommendation for vegetarian adults did not differ from that for non‐vegetarians. However, the report lacked specific evidence for actual protein sources in vegetarian diets. This study assessed protein sources in the diets of 21 female vegetarian adults in the Phoenix area (age, 26±1 y; BMI, 21.8±0.5 kg/m2; diet duration, 6.3±1.9 y) utilizing detailed 4‐day records. The mean PDCAAS for vegetarians, 76%, varied significantly from the FNB/IOM stated value of 100%. The mean protein digestibility, 82±1%, varied significantly from the FNB/IOM stated value of 88%. Protein sources varied significantly from those in the 2005 FNB/IOM report: 34% cereals, 27% legumes, 21% dairy, 7% nuts/seeds, and 11% fruit/vegetables versus 19% cereals, 32% legumes, and 49% dairy, respectively. A comparison of available ingested protein versus the protein RDA indicated that subjects consumed 83% of the recommended protein. Thus a 20% increase in the protein recommendation may be prudent for female vegetarians in the U.S. equating to 1.0 g/kg/day. The additional protein need can be achieved by 1 additional low‐fat dairy serving per day for lacto‐ovo‐vegetarians or 1 additional serving of soy per day for vegans.
Study on the blood profiles in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis during hospitalization period
Authors: Kim Joo‐Yeon , You Hyunjai , Kim Yangha
Published: June 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate the change of nutritional status and to analyze related factors in hospitalized tuberculosis (TB) patients during their hospitalization. At the time of admission average level of blood hemoglobin and hematocrit of subjects was lower than the normal value. After 3 months of hospitalization period, blood levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, albumin, and total protein were significantly increased compared to admission (P<0.001). The increment in blood albumin and total protein was significantly higher in the under‐body weight group compared to the normal‐body weight group (P<0.05). The increment in the level of blood total protein was higher in the good intake group than the poor intake group (P<0.05). The increment in hemoglobin, hematocrit and albumin was significantly higher in below 29 years group than over 60 years group (P<0.05). In conclusion, blood levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, albumin, and total protein of subjects were significantly increased after 3 months of hospitalization period, and the age and body weight of subjects at admission were supposed to influence the degree of change in the nutritional status.
Associations of obesity measures with consumption of regular/rich and light/fat‐free ice cream served from multiple‐serving packages or available as single‐serving products: NHANES, 1999–2006
Authors: Keast Debra R. , Kapica Cathy , Panyam Dinakar
Published: June 2021

NHANES, 1999–2006, data (n=29,343 aged 6+ years) were used to examine associations of ice cream with obesity. Children, adolescents and adults were classified as nonconsumers or consumers of regular/rich or light/fat‐free ice cream served from multiple‐serving packages (MSP) or available as single‐serving products (SSP). Measures of obesity were overweight (BMI ≥85th percentile, children/adolescents; ≥25 kg/m2, adults), and abdominal adiposity (waist circumference ≥90th percentile, adolescents; >102 cm, men; >88 cm, women). ANOVA and odds ratios were adjusted for physical activity and other covariates using SUDAAN. Among children, obesity measures did not differ between MSP or SSP groups. Among adolescents, regular/rich MSP consumers had lower abdominal adiposity (OR: 0.66, 0.48–0.91), but obesity measures did not differ for light/fat‐free MSP consumers. Among adults, light/fat‐free MSP consumers had lower abdominal adiposity (OR: 0.69, 0.54–0.89), but obesity measures did not differ for regular/rich MSP consumers. Overweight and abdominal adiposity did not differ between SSP groups among adolescents, or between light/fat‐free SSP consumers and nonconsumers among adults, but regular/rich SSP consumers had higher obesity rates. In conclusion, obesity measures were not associated with ice cream consumption in children; they were inversely associated in adolescents; and, in adults, obesity measures were inversely associated with MSP and positively associated with SSP. Lower abdominal adiposity was associated with regular/rich MSP in adolescents, and with light/fat‐free MSP in adults. (Supported by Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, Inc.)
Decoupling the Independent Effects of Multiple Simultaneous Behavior Changes in on Weight Loss
Authors: Patterson Rich , Payne Collin Richards , Wansink Brian
Published: June 2021

When offering weight loss guidance, multiple suggestions are often tailored in different ways to an individual. Because each set of advice may be unique, it is difficult to estimate the individual impact of any single recommendation. This study provided 200 individuals with three of 30 different diet‐related behavior changes and tracked their self‐reported daily compliance and their weight change over one to three months. Different statistical methods are compared in their ability to separate out the individual impact of these 20 behavior changes on weight loss. The results are useful for researchers who want to better assess which of multiple suggestions are most directly tied to a behavior change, such as weight loss.

Grant Funding Source: non
Caffeine intake and HIV viral burden in HIV+ drug users in Miami
Authors: Ramamoorthy Venkataraghavan , Campa Adriana , Sales Sabrina , Li Yinghui , Jayaweera Dushyantha T , Page Bryan J , Baum Marianna K
Published: June 2021

Objective

Caffeine intake adversely affects sleep patterns in HIV‐infection. This study examines the effect of caffeine intake on parameters of HIV disease progression.

Methods

After consenting 231 HIV+ adults, medical history, drug use questionnaires and 24‐hour dietary recalls were collected. Blood was drawn for CD4 cell count and viral load, and urine toxicology was performed.

Results

Mean age was 42.7±7.0yrs, 73.2% were men, and 37.6% were not on antiretrovirals (ART). Caffeine intake was significantly correlated with viral load (r=0.3, p=0.008) in participants not on ART (N=87) but not in those on ART (N=144). In those not on ART, caffeine was also correlated with heroin (r=0.24, p=0.037) and speed ball (r=0.25, p=0.028) use, BUN/creatinine ratio (r=0.24, p=0.04), and energy intake (r=0.26, p=0.02). There were no significant correlations between caffeine and CD4 cell count or other drugs of abuse. There was a dose‐response relationship between caffeine intake and increased viral load in those not on ART (β=597, p=0.008), a relationship that strengthened (β=739, p=0.004) by controlling for other significant variables.

Conclusion

Caffeine intake adversely affects HIV viral burden in this cohort of drug abusers who were not on ART. This relationship is not apparent in those on ART. Further studies are needed to elucidate mechanisms for caffeine action on HIV viral load.

Funded by NIDA
Varying dietary calcium (Ca), but not vitamin D (VD), influences bone and calcium metabolism in mature mice
Authors: Schoch Ryan D. , Smolinski Justin , McCreedy Rebecca , Clinton Steven K. , Fleet James C.
Published: June 2021

During growth, Ca restriction activates the VD endocrine system to regulate Ca homeostasis. However, some research shows that aging blunts this adaptation while other research suggests that serum 25 hydroxyVD3 (25OHD) levels should be raised to ≥ 80 nmol/L for optimal bone health. We examined whether mature mice adapt to low Ca intake and whether improved VD status enhances this response. At weaning, male mice were fed one of 6 diets with increasing levels of Ca (0.2, 0.5, or 1.5%) and VD (25 or 150 IU/kg diet) for 7‐months. Ca restriction significantly elevated renal 1α hydroxylase mRNA and suppressed renal 24‐hydroxylase mRNA leading to elevated serum 1,25‐dihydroxyVD3. As a result, mRNA for VD‐target genes in the duodenum (calbindin D9k) and kidney (calbindin D28k, calbindin D9k) were significantly increased. Despite this adaptation, Ca restriction decreased bone mineral density (−5.8%). Changing VD intake increased serum 25OHD from 49±3 to 79±3 nmol/L. However, this had no effect on bone or markers of Ca metabolism. These data show that habitual Ca restriction within ranges relevant to human intakes can stimulate adaptive mechanisms of Ca metabolism in mature mice but that this is insufficient to protect bone. In addition, using VD intake to raise serum 25OHD to 80 nmol/L does not benefit bone health and Ca metabolism nor blunt the negative impact of calcium restriction. Supported by NIH awards DK054111 and CA101113.
Association between risk perception and real fracture risk in adults
Authors: Clark Patricia , Tamayo Juan , Haua Karime , Suverza‐Fernández Araceli , Pérez‐Lizaur Ana B
Published: June 2021

The aim of the project was to evaluate the correlation between self‐perceived risk for osteoporosis and the actual fracture risk in an adult mexican sample. Prevalence of risk factors for osteoporosis and self‐perception risk were explored. Real osteoporosis risk was assessed with PIXI DXA scan of the heel. 171 people were studied (women:86%, mean age:54). Overweight/obese subjects were 76.7% of total women and 72.7% of men. Only 62% of participants reported they have received information about osteoporosis. Results about risk information showed that individuals do not recognize which conditions increase their risk for osteoporosis. The best recognized risk factors were postmenopause and smoking with a prevalence of 70.3% and 68.3%. There were no associations between risk factor information or self‐perceived risk with bone measures. In this sample, bone health was not associated with osteoporosis risk information or auto‐perceived osteoporosis risk. Results suggest that Mexican population do not have the basic information about osteoporosis prevention and may be falling into risk behavior.
Effect of plant and marine sources of n‐3 fatty acids on markers of bone turnover in healthy adults
Authors: Nguyen Lan , Rajaram Sujatha , Mohan Subburaman , Sabaté Joan
Published: June 2021

Scientific evidence suggests that n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) may exert protective effects on bone. We investigated the effects of n‐3 PUFA from plant and marine sources on markers of bone turnover. This was a controlled, single blind, randomized crossover feeding trial. Twenty‐five (12 females and 13 males) healthy participants completed the study which included three isoenergetic diets for four weeks each: [1] Control, [2] á‐linolenic acid (ALA) rich diet (1.5 oz of walnuts/d, 6 times/wk per 2400 kcal), and [3] eicosapentaenoic/docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA) rich diet (8 oz of salmon/wk per 2400 kcal). Serum markers of bone turnover [c‐telopeptide (CTX), procollagen Type I N‐terminal propeptide (P1NP) and osteocalcin (OC)] and phospholipid (PL) fatty acid composition were analyzed at the end of each diet period. Plasma phospholipid EPA/DHA and ALA were significantly higher in subjects on the EPA/DHA rich and ALA rich diets (p < 0.0001), respectively. There were no significant changes in serum CTX, P1NP and OC between the diets, but there was a significant negative association between P1NP levels and age (p = 0.005). In conclusion, we did not observe changes in any of the markers of bone turnover in healthy adults with either plant or marine n‐3 PUFA at amounts used in this study.
High volume cardiorespiratory endurance exercise (CREE) improves physical fitness in obese bariatric surgery patients in a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shah Meena , Snell Peter , Rao Sneha , Huet Beverley , Quittner Claudia , Mitchell Joel , Garg Abhimanyu
Published: June 2021

Weight regain is a significant problem amongst bariatric surgery patients. Exercise is a key strategy to prevent weight regain but the feasibility and efficacy of high volume CREE remains unknown in bariatric surgery patients. Thirty‐three mostly morbidly obese (body mass index (mean±SD): 41±6 kg/m2) Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass and gastric banding surgery patients were randomized to a CREE or a control group for 12 wk. All patients were counseled to limit energy intake to 1200–1500 kcal/d. The CREE group was trained to gradually increase energy expenditure to ≥ 2,000 kcal/wk through moderate intensity exercise under supervision and on their own. During the last 4 wk of the study, 53% of the patients in the CREE group expended ≥ 2,000 kcal/wk and 88% expended ≥ 1,000 kcal/wk. Step count, assessed by pedometer, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) (ml/kg/min), assessed by a treadmill test, were significantly increased from baseline to 12 wk in the CREE group compared to controls (step count: 71% vs. 16%; p=0.03; VO2max: 11% vs. −3%; p=0.009, respectively). No group by time effect was found for weight, resting metabolic rate, fasting lipids and glucose and postprandial glucose levels. In conclusion, CREE is feasible and enhances physical fitness in a group of mostly morbidly obese bariatric surgery patients and may be used as a strategy to maintain weight loss. Study was supported by NIH grants M01‐RR00633 and UL1‐RR‐024982.
Impact of Calcium Intake on Body Weight in Obese Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Metghalchi Shiva , Duran Rebecca , Rivera Maribet , Cordero‐MacIntyre Zaida
Published: June 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of calcium intake on the body composition in postmenopausal women.

Design

A partial crossover design was used to study a weight loss treatment consisting of Phentermine hydrochloride (Fastin®, SmithKline Pharmaceuticals, Philadelphia, PA) therapy plus a low energy diet (5040 kJ/d). Forty‐seven obese, postmenopausal Caucasian women (BMI of 30–38 kg/m2) were randomized into two groups, both of which received drug and diet treatment over 6 months. Body composition was assessed by anthropometry and dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry, and food frequency dietary records were collected from all participants at baseline, 3, and 6 months.

Results

all study subjects lostbody weight and body fat due to the drug therapy and a low calorie diet (5040 kJ/d). There were no differences in weight, BMI and total fat between Group I and Group II at baseline. However, mean calcium intake differ significantly between two groups at baseline (P < 0.05). The participants had a 5.12% and 5.90% weight loss (P=0.001) at three months and six months compare to baseline. Compared to baseline BMI was reduced by 5.2 % and 6.00 % at three months and six months. Total fat mass decreased by 5.60% and 13.34% (P=0.001) at three and six months respectively. These results indicate that the weight reduction program was effective for all participants. However, no significant correlation was observed between change in calciumintake from baseline to 6 months and change in weight, BMI and total bodyfat.

Center for Health Research, Loma Linda University

Grant Funding Source: Center for Health Research, Loma Linda University
Trajectories of weight change from late adolescence to late middle age for lean and obese individuals
Authors: Flood Andrew , Renehan Andrew , Adams Kenneth , Leitzmann Michael , Hollenbeck Albert R. , Schatzkin Arthur
Published: June 2021

To identify and better understand trajectories of individual weight change associated with increasing age, we analyzed longitudinal data from a cohort of older Americans (171,711 men and 122,563 women). Subjects entered the cohort in 1996 at a mean age of 62.5 years and they reported current height and weight, and weight at ages 18, 35, and 50 years. At study entry in 1996, prevalences of overweight and obesity among men were 49.6% and 19.9%, respectively. Across 9 categories of current BMI (from <18.5 kg/m2 to ≥35 kg/m2) there was no difference in mean BMI at age 18 (all categories of current BMI had a mean BMI at age 18 of between 21.4 and 21.6 kg/m2). Likewise, mean BMI at age 35 was almost identical across the 9 categories of current BMI. However, BMI at age 50 was strongly associated with current BMI (19.8 kg/m2 in the bottom category with a monotonic increase to 33.2 kg/m2 in the top category). Results for women were essentially identical to those in men. In this cohort of subjects that was primarily lean at late adolescence, neither BMI at age 18 nor BMI at age 35 were associated with current BMI despite high prevalences of overweight and obesity at late middle age. Weight gain between ages 35 and 50, however, was highly predictive of overweight and obesity in late middle age.

Funding: NIH K07 CA108910‐01A1 to A.F., and NCI Intramural Research Program.
Different Sources of Over‐Sulfated Chondroitin Sulfate (OSCS) May Produce Differential Interactions with Heparins
Authors: Gray Angel , Hoppensteadt Debra , Litinas Evangelos , Fareed Jawed
Published: June 2021

Use of heparin contaminated with over‐sulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) is associated with adverse reactions. OSCS can be prepared from bovine (B), porcine (P), shark (Sh), or skate (S) origin which may produce changes in the antithrombotic, bleeding, and hemodynamic profile of heparins. This study examines the effects of various OSCSs on the safety and efficacy of heparin in rat jugular vein thrombosis (JVT) and rat tail bleeding (RTB) models, and the interaction of OSCS with LMWH and ULMWH using in vitro assays. 70/30 mixtures of UFH and OSCS from various sources were tested at 2 mg/kg IV. In the RTB studies, significant differences between the UFH/saline treated rats (21.75±1.13 min) and the UFH/P (28.43±4.58 min), UFH/Sh (28.90±2.70 min), and UFH/S (27.8±2.56 min) treated rats were observed (p<0.05 vs control). In the JVT model, no significant differences were observed. B, P, and S significantly increased the anti‐Xa activity ex vivo (p<0.05). Only 70/30 enoxaparin/OSCS showed an increase in the aPTT, thrombin time, and Heptest assays compared to control. These results indicate that various sources of OSCS do affect the hemostatic properties of heparin differently. Also, OSCS may have an effect on LMWHs, but not ULMWHs.
Von Willebrand Factor and vWF Propeptide are Up‐regulated in Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Walenga Jeanine M , Hoppensteadt Debra , Davis Rachael , Jeske Walter , Escalante Vicki , Conway Brooke , Fareed Jawed
Published: June 2021

Von Willebrand factor (vWF) plays a key role in platelet associated vascular disorders. vWF biosynthesis includes proteolytic cleavage of a 741‐residue propeptide (vWF‐PP) and the assembly of disulfide‐linked multimers. vWF‐PP levels is a marker of vWF synthesis. The vWF to vWF‐PP ratio is altered in individuals with low vWF synthesis. No reports are available on its levels in pathologic conditions where vWF levels are increased. We hypothesized that both vWF and vWF‐PP are up regulated in diagnostically confirmed heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) patients (n=15). vWF antigen and vWF‐PP were measured using a commercially available kit (GTI, Waukesha, WI). Normal male and female citrated plasmas from 50 individuals were used as control. A commercially available ELISA method (Stago, Asnieres, France) was used to compare the vWF levels in the two groups. In comparison to the normals, the HIT patients showed a very high level of vWF (303 ± 91 vs 100 ± 61 U/mL). vWF‐PP was also higher in the HIT patients (318 ± 143 vs 92 ± 23 U/mL). Both groups showed a wide scatter in the levels of vWF and vWF‐PP. The ratio of vWF to vWF‐PP was not different between the two groups (1.04 ± 0.56 vs 1.21 ± 0.74) suggesting that the clearance of vWF‐PP is not altered in HIT syndrome. The vWF levels measured by the two methods were comparable. These studies suggest that vWF and its propeptides are up regulated in HIT syndrome but their clearance is normal.
The role of V Leiden, prothrombin G20210A and C677T MTHFR mutations as risk factors for venous thrombosis and recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Thani Asma Al , Badii Ramin , Al‐Jaber Masheal , Almarii Noura , Fahad Sara
Published: June 2021

Determination of risk factors in venous thrombosis will help to prevent the veno‐occlusive events and minimize its complication. So the aim of this prospective study is to determine the frequency of Factor V Leiden, prothrombin G20210A and C677T MTHFR mutations in patients with thromboembolic events. Patients’ clinical data were classified into three groups; G1:deep vein thrombosis 133 patients,( 59 females and 74 males), G2: recurrent pregnancy loss 77 females and G3: pulmonary embolism 34 patients (18 females and 14 males).

In G 1; Factor V Leiden mutation was found heterozygotes (25%), homozygotes (10%) and wild type (65%). Factor II prothrombin G20210A mutation, only 3% were heterozygous, none were homozygous and 97% were wild type. The C677T MTHFR analysis showed that 41% were heterozygous, 4% were homozygous and the remaining 55% were wild type.

In G2; 25% were heterozygous, 4% homozygous, and 71% wild type for Factor V Leiden. Factor II prothrombin G20210A showed that, 4% were heterozygous, none were homozygous and 96% were wild type. With respect to C677T MTHFR, 32% were heterozygous, 2% homozygous and 66% wild type.

In G3; Factor V Leiden mutation was present in 16% of heterozygotes 3% of homozygotes and 81% were wild type. Only 3% were heterozygous for Factor II prothrombin G20210A mutation and the remaining 97% were wild type. Furthermore, For C677T MTHFR mutation the results indicated that 21% were heterozygous, 7% homozygous and 72% were wild type. Establishing the role of these genetic factors in thromboembolic events in Qatari population will require conducting an association study with a larger sample size and a healthy control population.
The IKK inhibitor BMS345541 affects aurora kinase expression in human melanoma
Authors: Splittgerber Ryan , Su Ying‐Jun , Thu Yee Mon , Raman Daya , Richmond Ann
Published: June 2021

NF‐κB has been shown to be an important contributor to the development of melanoma. However, inhibitors of the NF‐κB pathway have proven to be only marginally successful when treating human melanoma xenografts in nude mice. Though a sub‐population of melanoma tumor xenografts from patients respond to IKK2 inhibitors, a much larger percentage of the patient tumor xenografts respond to the aurora kinase A inhibitor, MNL8054. RT2‐PCR analysis of aurora kinase A (AURKA) and B (AURKB) suggest elevated expression of these two kinases in melanoma cell lines. To examine of the relationship between NF‐κB activity and aurora kinase expression, we measure aurora kinase expression in multiple melanoma cell lines before and after treatment with the IKK2 inhibitor, BMS‐345541. We observed that treatment with BMS345541 decreased expression of AURKA and AURKB at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, aurora kinases have been shown to negatively regulate activity of the p53 tumor suppressor via phosphorylation of ser 215 and 315, marking p53 for degradation. Inhibition of IKK2 by either knockdown of IKK2 or by treatment with BMS‐345541 decreases AURKA expression and increases p53 expression. Expression of p53 is stabilized in AURKA knockdowns, suggesting that the BMS‐345541 mediated p53 stabilization may result from the drug's suppression of AURKA expression. Thus, the mechanism for tumor cell killing in response to IKKβ or AURKA inhibitors likely involves a shift to an increase in p53 levels to both inhibit cell growth and to target cells for apoptosis. Our data suggest that the elevated expression of aurora kinases in melanoma can be down‐regulated by treatment with IKKβ inhibitors. Ongoing experiments should reveal the mechanism of NF‐κB and aurora kinase interactions with the hope of determining when an IKKβ inhibitor is preferred over an AURKA inhibitor for treatment of melanoma.
Arterial Function and Flow Related Arterial Remodeling during DOCA‐salt Hypertension
Authors: Lemkens Pieter , Nelissen Jelly , Fazzi Gregorio E. , Janssen Ben J. , De Mey Jo G.R. , Schiffers Paul M.H.
Published: June 2021

Hypothesis

The DOCA‐salt Hypertensive rat (DOCA), a model of enhanced function of endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), displays: 1. Increased importance of endogenous ET‐1 in vasoreactivity 2. Altered flow‐related arterial remodeling.

Methods

1. 2nd order rat mesenteric artery (MrA) reactivity was assessed using wire‐myography. 2. Flow modifying surgery was performed as described by Pourageaud and De Mey (1997) and arteries were analysed by pressure arteriography and histology.

Results

1. the endothelin‐receptor antagonist Bosentan endothelium‐dependently reduced contractile responses to K+‐induced depolarization in arteries of DOCA but not SHAM. 2. No outward hypertrophic remodeling occurred in high flow (HF) arteries of DOCA. Arteries exposed to low flow (LF) conditions, showed inward remodeling, hypertrophy, and infiltration of ED‐1 (monocyte/macrophage‐marker) positive cells. DOCA MrA's showed a marked reduction in calculated distensibility. α‐Smooth muscle actin staining of LF vessels showed development of “collaterals” in the adventitia.

Conclusion

DOCA MrA's show increased contribution of endogenous ET‐1 to K+‐induced vasomotor responses, impaired outward remodeling, arterial stiffening and hypertrophy. LF MrA's show infiltration of inflammatory cells and development of “collaterals” in the adventitia.

This study was performed within project T2–108 of the Dutch Top Institute Pharma.
Loss of endothelial Focal adhesion kinase in mice causes lung vascular leak, alveolar destruction and inflammation
Authors: Thennes Tracy L , Tauseef Mohammad , Knezevic Nebojsa , Göthert Joachim R , Shen Tang‐Long , Guan Jun‐Lin , Cheresh David A , Mehta Dolly
Published: June 2021

Endothelial cell specific deletion of FAK leads to embryonic lethality due to impaired vascular formation. Since FAK maintains basal endothelial barrier function and limits increases in its permeability by inflammatory mediators we generated tamoxifen‐inducible, Cre‐driven endothelial specific FAK null adult mice (i‐EC‐FAK−/−) to investigate the role of endothelial FAK in regulating lung vascular integrity. Control or i‐EC‐FAK mice were given 2mg tamoxifen for 5 d and lungs were harvested after 7 d to examine histology and microvessel permeability. Specific FAK deletion was confirmed using immunohistochemistry and confocal imaging of lung sections. Compared to control, i‐EC‐FAK lungs showed destruction of alveolar structures, interstitial and alveolar edema, and leukocyte seepage into the lung interstitium, indicative of acute lung injury (ALI). Arterial blood gas analysis revealed similar P02 and PC02 levels but the hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in i‐EC‐FAK mice, supporting leaky blood vessels and internal bleeding. Next, we investigated the effect of vascular dysfunction on the physical ability of i‐EC‐FAK mice by exposing them to a forced swim test. In contrast to control mice which swim rapidly, i‐EC‐FAK mice only float, suggesting exhaustion. Our results reveal that loss of endothelial FAK leads to ALI, identifying FAK as a novel therapeutic target to prevent ALI.
Inhibition of TNF‐α‐induced reactive oxygen species generation, cell Adhesion molecule expression and NF‐κB activation by 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Kim Hye kyung , Kim Hyo Jin , Park Jin Kyeong , Lee Eun Na , Oh Sae‐Ock , Baek Sun‐Yong , Kim Bong‐Seon , Choi Young‐Whan , Yoon Sik
Published: June 2021

Inflammation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and progression of atherosclerotic vascular disease. The current study explored if 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) isolated from aged black garlic extract could attenuate the activities of adhesion molecules in tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The study was performed on HUVECs that were pretreated with HMF for 1 h and then treated with TNF‐α. HUVECs treated with HMF showed markedly suppressed TNF‐α‐induced of VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 mRNA expression. HMF treatment also significantly decreased cell surface and total protein expression of VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 in a concentration‐dependent manner. In addition, HMF suppressed TNF‐α‐induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, HMF significantly inhibited NF‐κB transcription factor activation in TNF‐α‐stimulated HUVECs. Based on these findings, HMF is proposed as an effective new anti‐inflammatory agent that may have a potential therapeutic use for the prevention and treatment of vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Cyclic AMP response element binding protein, CREB, induces endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis in response to thrombin
Authors: Chava Koteswara Rao , Mehta Dolly
Published: June 2021

Thrombin rapidly increases endothelial permeability and also triggers cues to induce angiogenesis which may be important in maintaining vessel wall integrity post injury. Cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) is a nuclear transcription factor which signals the angiogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of CREB in thrombin‐induced angiogenesis. We show that in human pulmonary arterial endothelial (HPAE) cells thrombin within 5 min induced CREB phosphorylation at serine 133. CREB phosphodefective mutant blocked the thrombin‐induced angiogenesis. We show that thrombin failed to induce CREB activity in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Based on our data that receptor‐operated Ca2+ (ROC) channels mediate Ca2+ entry in endothelial cells and we show that direct activation of ROC by oleoyl‐2‐acetyl‐sn glycerol (OAG) induced CREB phosphorylation. Knockdown of TRPC6, a prominent ROC channels in lung endothelium markedly suppressed CREB activity and also prevented thrombin induced migration and network tube formation. We show that in wild type (WT) mice subcutaneous injection of growth factor reduced matrigel induced angiogenesis while TRPC6−/− mice showed suppressed angiogenic potential. Our results identify CREB as a novel transcription factor that downstream of TRPC6 channels regulates angiogenesis thereby linking Ca2+ signaling to vascular endothelial remodeling.
Melatonin inhibits NO‐induced cGMP accumulation by increasing PDE5 phosphorylation in coronary arteries
Authors: Shukla Praveen , Grazul‐Bilska Anna , O'Rourke Stephen T
Published: June 2021

Melatonin impairs NO‐induced relaxation by inhibiting the NO‐induced increase in cGMP in coronary arteries. We tested the hypothesis that the inhibitory effect of melatonin on NO‐signaling is due to increased phosphodiesterase type‐5 (PDE5) activation. Melatonin (10−7M) inhibited sodium nitroprusside (SNP) induced relaxation of isolated coronary arteries but had no effect on relaxation induced by 8‐Br‐cGMP. The inhibitory effect of melatonin on SNP‐induced relaxation was abolished in the presence of either the PDE inhibitor, zaprinast (10−5M) or the MT2‐receptor antagonist, 4P‐PDOT (10−7 M). Melatonin (10−7M) markedly reduced the SNP‐induced increase in cGMP levels in coronary arteries, and this effect of melatonin was significantly attenuated in the presence of either zaprinast (10−5M) or 4P‐PDOT (10−7 M). Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed localization of MT2‐receptors in the vascular smooth muscle cell layer. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated PDE5 expression in coronary arteries. Incubation of the tissues with melatonin (10−7M) caused a significant increase in PDE5 phosphorylation, which was abolished in the presence of 4P‐PDOT (10−7 M). The data indicate that melatonin increases the catalytic activity of PDE5 by activating MT2‐receptors in coronary arteries, resulting in decreased cGMP accumulation in response to NO and impaired NO‐induced vasorelaxation. (Supported by NIH HL77204)
Adiponectin Is Secreted by Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Regulates Muscle Contractile Phenotype
Authors: Ding Min , Wagner Robert J. , Martin Kathleen A.
Published: June 2021

Adiponectin is a cardioprotective adipokine thought to be derived mainly from visceral fat. We recently showed that recombinant adiponectin induces vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) differentiation via AMPK activation. Here we report for the first time that human VSMC express and secrete adiponectin, and that this acts in an autocrine and paracrine manner to regulate VSMC contractile phenotype. Adiponectin and its receptors AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 are expressed at the mRNA and protein levels in human coronary artery VSMC. Importantly, siRNA knock‐down of endogenous adiponectin significantly reduced expression of VSMC contractile proteins by 40–75%. Secreted adiponectin was detected in VSMC conditioned media. Adiponectin overexpression confirms that VSMC can secrete multiple higher order oligomeric forms and can induce pro‐differentiation transcription factors. Notably, adiponectin overexpression induces contractile protein expression in both transfected and (non‐transfected) neighboring cells, suggesting autocrine and paracrine actions which require AMPK signaling. Finally, endogenous VSMC adiponectin is upregulated by rosiglitazone, a known inhibitor of VSMC proliferation. Our data suggest that VSMC‐generated adiponectin may play important roles in maintenance of the VSMC differentiated phenotype, which could contribute to its cardioprotective functions. Funded by FAMRI.