bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Prooxidant Based Anticancer Mechanism Of Plant Derived Polyphenolic Nutraceuticals
Authors: Zubair Haseeb , Khan Husain Yar , Ullah Mohd Fahad , Hadi SM
Published: June 2021

Plant polyphenols are recognized as antioxidants but also act as prooxidants in the presence of transition metal ions, such as copper. Using a cellular system of lymphocytes isolated from human blood and Comet assay we have shown that polyphenols cause oxidative DNA breakage in cells. We have also shown that polyphenols generate oxidative stress in lymphocytes which is inhibited by scavengers of reactive oxygen species. Incubation of lymphocytes with neocuproine (cell membrane permeable Cu(I) chelator) inhibited DNA degradation, confirming that Cu(I) is an intermediate in the DNA cleavage reaction. Bathocuproine, a cell impermeable analogue of neocuproine, did not cause such inhibition. Polyphenols are able to degrade DNA in cell nuclei and that such DNA degradation is inhibited by neocuproine as well as bathocuproine (both permeate the nuclear pore complex) but not by compounds that specifically bind iron and zinc. Similarly, the polyphenol genistein induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells is also inhibited by the copper chelator neocuproine. The results support our hypothesis that anticancer mechanism of polyphenols involves mobilization of endogenous copper, possibly chromatin bound, and the consequent prooxidant action. Such a common mechanism would better explain the anticancer effects of polyphenols with diverse chemical structures as also the preferential cytotoxicity towards cancer cells.

Grant Funding Source: UGC‐BSR, New Delhi
Garcinol inhibits cell growth in hepatocellular carcinoma Hep3B cells through induction of ROS‐dependent apoptosis
Authors: Cheng An‐Chin , Lee Ming‐Fen , Pan Min‐Hsiung , Kuo Chia‐Chang , Huang Han
Published: June 2021

Garcinol, derived from Garcinia indica and other related species, has been found to modulate several cell signalling pathways involved in apoptosis and cancer development. Growth arrest and DNA damage‐inducible gene 153 (GADD153) is a member of the CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein (C/EBP) family of transcription factors; it is expressed at low levels under normal conditions but strongly induced upon growth arrest, DNA damage, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This study investigated the effect of garcinol on Hep3B cells, a human hepatocellular cancer cell line lacking functional p53, with the goal of elucidating the molecular mechanisms of p53‐independent apoptosis in hepatocellular cancer. Overall, garcinol activated not only the death receptor and the mitochondrial apoptosis pathways but also the ER stress modulator GADD153. Garcinol treatment led to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased GADD153 expression, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. An increase in the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio resulted in enhanced apoptosis. Our data suggest a promising therapeutic application of garcinol in p53‐independent apoptosis in cancers.
LIV‐1 regulates zinc uptake and E‐cadherin (CDH1) expression in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells but does not influence SNAI1
Authors: Chong Leelyn , Sankavaram Kavitha , Freake Hedley C
Published: June 2021

LIV‐1, the estrogen‐regulated gene encoding a member of the ZIP family of zinc transporters, has been implicated in both growth and metastasis of estrogen‐receptor (ER) positive and negative breast cancer cells. EGF treatment induces LIV‐1 protein expression in ER negative MDA‐MB‐231 cells by about 2‐fold whereas shRNA knock down reduces it 30%. Expression of E‐cadherin (CDH1) mRNA changed in parallel. Expression of SNAI1, thought to be a transcriptional repressor of CDH1, was also measured to further understand the linkage between LIV‐1 and CDH1. However, neither EGF nor LIV‐1 knockdown altered the expression of SNAI1 suggesting that this factor does not mediate influences of LIV‐1 on CDH1 in these cells. We also used 65Zn to characterize the role of LIV‐1 in zinc uptake. Knockdown of LIV‐1 reduced 65Zn uptake in parallel to the reduction in LIV‐1 expression, confirming its function as a zinc importer. Overall, LIV‐1 appears to play critical roles in both zinc homeostasis and the regulation of metastatic potential in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, though the mechanism of its linkage to CDH1 remains to be defined.
ACTION MECHANISM OF TRIIODOTHYRONINE (T3) ON AMPHIREGULIN (AR) GENE EXPRESSION IN BREAST CARCINOMA CELL LINE MCF‐7
Authors: De Sibio Maria Teresa , de Azevedo Melo Luvizotto Renata , Conde Sandro José , Olimpio Regiane Marques Castro , de Oliveira Miriane , Perone Denise , Ferreira Ana Lúcia dos Anjos , Corrêa Camila Renata , Nogueira Célia Regina
Published: June 2021

It is known that the hormonal status of patients with breast cancer is very important for the disease proliferation and its treatment. Experimental studies showed that T3 is able to increase the proliferation of breast cancer cells by inducing the expression of genes normally stimulated by estrogen. However, it was reported that steroid hormones could have quick action in cells without involving transitional mechanisms, called non‐genomic action. Studies show that AR gene, a multifunctional growth factor regulator, was stimulated by both T3 and E2 treatment of MCF‐7 cells. To determine whether thyroid hormone alters AR gene expression in a short period of time (non‐genomic pathway). Cell culture, of MCF‐7, was treated with T3 (10‐8M), TAM (10‐6M) and T3 + TAM in: 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour and 2 hours. The total RNA of cultured cells was extracted and Real Time‐PCR was perfomed to determine AR gene expression. T3 is able to increase AR gene expression in a short period of time. The T3 hormone associated or not with TAM increased considerably the AR gene expression. The results support the hypothesis of non‐genomic action of thyroid hormone on AR gene, since there was a considerable increase in gene expression in both 10 minutes and 1 hour, even in the presence of TAM. Thus, it is clear that the non‐genomic action pathway is important and can be related to the proliferation and treatment of breast cancer.
Carnosic acid alleviates colon tumor formation in obese mice
Authors: Kim Yun‐ji , Kim Jong‐Sang , Seo Young‐Rok , Sung Mi‐Kyung
Published: June 2021

Carnosic acid has been implicated to suppress adipocyte differentiation and the proliferation of several cancer cell lines. Objectives of this study were 1) to investigate carnosic acid on the growth of HT‐29 colon adenocarcinoma cells co‐cultured with adipocytes and 2) to determine the effect of carnosic acid on AOM‐DSS induced colon tumor formation in high‐fat fed obese A/J mice. Study results indicated that 3T3L1 co‐culture accelerated HT‐29 cell proliferation. Carnosic acid treatment (1 and 10 ¥ìM) decreased adipocyte‐stimulated proliferation of HT‐29 cells through cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. In vivo study results indicated that carnosic acid supplementation reduced the number of colon tumors, and decreased the circulating concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, insulin and IGF‐1. The colonic expressions of ObR, IR, p‐Akt, p‐ERK, Bcl‐xL and CyclinD1 protein were also suppressed. These results suggest that carnosic acid alleviates adipocity‐related acceleration of colon tumor formation.

[This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2009‐0083853)]
Design, synthesis and evaluation in vitro of antioxidant compounds with phenol and thiol moieties
Authors: Perez Laura Cristina Cabrera , Padilla Martinez Itzia I. , Mendieta Wejebe Jessica E. , Jimenez Elvia Mera , Rosales Hernandez Martha C.
Published: June 2021

It is know that compounds with phenol and thiol moieties have antioxidant activity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to synthetized three compounds containing phenol and thiol groups ((cysteine‐phenol (1), benzothiazole‐phenol (2) and benzothiazole‐phenol (3)) to test then as antioxidant agents. The antioxidant activity evaluation was carried out by DPPH determination and by inactivation of •OH radical generated during the Fenton reaction. The results show that DPPH radical reduction is concetration dependent, the compounds (1) and (2) have higher DPPH radical reducing power (>90%) to 0.102 μM, in comparision with N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) which show 55%. The three compounds inhibit the formation of •OH radical during the Fenton reaction by reducing the signal strength between the adduct formed by •OH and N‐tert‐butyl‐á‐phenylnitrone. In conclussion these compounds have higher antioxidant activity than NAC
Comparison of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Haitian and African Americans with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Trivedi Disha , Zarini Gustavo G , Huffman Fatma G
Published: June 2021

There is lack of data about the differences in CVD risk factors among Haitian Americans (HA) and African Americans (AA) with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). The study compared the differences in CVD risk factors among HA and AA with T2D. Overall 255 subjects with T2D, (HA =134 and AA=121) were recruited from multiple sources from Miami‐Dade and Broward County, Florida. Risk factors studied were glycemic control, blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein, high‐density lipoprotein, abdominal obesity (AO) and body mass index. Anthropometric and blood pressure measurements were recorded. Blood glucose and lipids were assayed by enzymatic methods. Data were analyzed using t‐test, chi square test and logistic regression. Logistic Regression analysis showed that after adjusting for confounding variables, HA were about 3.7 times more likely to have poor glycemic control than AA (OR 3.69 [95% CI 1.84–7.35], p<.001). AA were 5 times more likely to be obese (OR 5.25 [2.68–10.29] p<.001) and have AO (OR 6.79 [2.74–16.85] p<.001). A high percentage of hypertensive individuals were noted in both groups (77.6% in HA and 81% in AA). Significant differences in CVD risk factors in HA and AA with T2D suggests that more ethnic specific interventions and education programs should be aimed to reduce T2D related complications. Funding of this research was provided through an NIH/NIDDK sponsored grant.
Childhood experience with vegetable consumption and current body weight status of Kentucky adults
Authors: Wang Changzheng , Huang Lingyu , Butler Cecil
Published: June 2021

Low consumption of vegetables may be one of the major reasons for the obesity epidemic in the United States. The objective of the project was to determine how experiences with vegetable consumption in childhood might affect vegetable consumption and body weight status of adults. Visitors to the 2009 Kentucky State Fair were recruited to fill out a questionnaire before they were given a free analysis of their body composition (body fat %) with a Tanita TBF‐521 body composition analyzer. Among the 200 participants, 69% were female and 31% were male; 88% were Caucasian and 9% African Americans. Majority of the participants had positive views of milk and vegetables. Among the people surveyed, over 90% of them prefer fresh vegetables. When they were children, 44% of them were allowed to eat whatever they liked, 41% were given a fixed amount of vegetables to eat, 17% of them were forced to eat vegetables, but nearly 10% had no vegetables. Those who had no vegetables during childhood had the highest rate of overweight (43%) and obesity (25.6%), whereas those who were given a fixed amount of vegetables or had vegetables as snacks had the lowest rate of overweight (27%) and obesity (11.8%). These results indicate that childhood experience with vegetable consumption affects the body weight status of people in their adult life.
Hyperlycemia affects CVD risk by modulating cholesterol LDL and HDL lipoprotein distribution in Mexican‐American adults
Authors: Neupane Srijana , Shaibi Gabriel Q , Vega‐López Sonia
Published: June 2021

To assess if CVD risk is associated with glucose and lipoprotein particle size in Mexican Americans, we randomly selected 80 overweight adults (age = 41.6±7.8 y; BMI = 32.2±7.1 kg/m2; LDL‐C = 112±31 mg/dL; HDL‐C = 35±11 mg/dL; fasting glucose [FG] = 101±38 mg/dL; 2‐hr glucose [2hGlu] = 154±70 mg/dL) from the Arizona Insulin Resistance Registry. HDL‐C was negatively correlated with FG (r = −0.38; p = 0.001) and 2hGlu (r = −0.30; p = 0.01). LDL‐C was positively correlated with FG (r = 0.26; p = 0.02) and 2hGlu (r = 0.40; p < 0001). When stratified by FG, participants in the lowest quartile had a significantly lower percentage of cholesterol in smaller LDL particles (1.2±1.8 %) than those in the 3rd and 4th quartiles (6.1±4.3 % and 5.4±4.5 %, respectively; p = 0.004), with no differences in the amount of cholesterol in larger LDL particles. Participants in the lowest quartile of FG had the highest amount of HDL‐C in larger HDL particles (26.1±8.3 %) relative to the 3rd and 4th quartiles (17.7±6.6 % and 16.4±6.0 % respectively; p < 0.001) and the least amount in smaller HDL particles (73.8±8.4 %) compared to the 3rd and 4th quartiles (82.3±6.4 % and 83.6±5.9 %, respectively; p = 0.002). Findings were similar when stratifying by 2hGlu. Thus, hyperglycemia may affect CVD risk by modulating cholesterol distribution in LDL and HDL particles in this population. Funded by ASU and the Health Research Alliance AZ/Arizona Insulin Resistance Registry.
Metabolic Syndrome and C ‐ reactive protein Levels among Mexican American Adults: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 1999–2006
Authors: Sarafrazi Neda , Jackson Robert T , Momen Bahram
Published: June 2021

Several studies have found associations between low grade inflammation and metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes mellitus. Little information is available on C‐reactive protein (CRP) distribution and its relation with MetS in Mexican Americans (MA). We investigated the association between CRP and MetS in MA adults. We also compared the odds ratios (ORs) of developing MetS or its components according to quartiles of CRP. Data from 3265 MA adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2006, were used. Regression analysis was addressed the associations between log transformed CRP with the components of MetS after adjusting for the relevant confounders. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios of developing MetS according to quartile of CRP after controlling for confounders. Significant associations were observed between CRP and MetS components. In multiple logistic regression analysis with age, gender, drinking, smoking, marital status, medication use, arthritis and all the components of MetS, only central obesity and gender were significant predictors of elevated CRP concentration. Mexican Americans with MetS and low grade inflammation might be at higher risk for developing CVD and diabetes. Appropriate approaches for prevention, treatment and management of MetS and/or chronic inflammation are needed.

Grant Funding Source: N/A
Dietary glutamate reduced body fat but increased lean body mass in weaning rats
Authors: Sakai Ryosei , Kuwahara Tomomi , Kawamata Yasuko , Nakamura Hidehiro , Torii Kunio , Chin Keigi
Published: June 2021

Although previous studies have suggested a role of dietary glutamate (Glu) for maintenance of normal growth of rats based on the observation of body weight changes, few studies assessed body composition. This study investigated the effects of Glu ingestion on fat and lean body mass in weaning rats. Male SD rats aged at 3wk old were fed fixed amount of diets containing either balanced amino acid (AA) mixture including 4% Glu (control), its Glu‐free mixture (Glu‐free) or low AA mixture (isonitrogenous to the Glu‐free) for 3 weeks. In another experiment, the rats were fed control AA diet, Glu‐free diet with or without additional glycine (Gly) or glutamine (Gln) for 3 weeks. Food intake, body weight and hepatic triglyceride level were measured. Fat and lean body mass were estimated from total body water measured by D2O dilution method. Feeding of Glu‐free diet or low AA diet decreased lean body mass but increased both body fat mass and hepatic triglyceride content compared to those of control. Supplementation of Gly and Gln to Glu‐free diet restored body weight gain to that of control, but did not decreased body fat to control level. These results suggest that Glu in general foods is an important nutrient for body growth and maintenance of adequate body composition.
Minimal Enteral Glutamate Slows Gastric Emptying in Preterm Pigs
Authors: Burrin Douglas , Bauchart‐Thevret Caroline , Stoll Barbara , Benight Nancy
Published: June 2021

Glutamate (GLU) is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the body. GLU receptors and transporters are present in the gut. Emerging evidence suggests that GLU may play a functional role in promoting gastric emptying and digestion. We hypothesized that dietary GLU stimulates gastric emptying in the developing gut. 10‐d preterm, parenterally‐fed pigs received partial enteral nutrition (25%) as milk‐based formula supplemented with monosodium glutamate (MSG) at 0, 2, 4 and 6 times the basal GLU intake (n=5–8 pigs/group) for 7 d. Calorimetry and 13C‐octanoic acid breath test were performed on d 3, 5, 7 and 9 of life. We found no differences in body weight gain, organ weight and arterial plasma GLU and glutamine concentrations between the treatment groups. However, portal GLU concentration was significantly higher in pigs fed the MSG 4 and 6 doses. There was no treatment effect on VO2 uptake, VCO2 production, respiratory exchange ratio and heat production. The average lag time (Tlag) and gastric half emptying time (T1/2) between all treatment groups were 121 and 188 min, respectively. Tlag and T1/2 tended to increase with MSG supplementation in a dose dependent manner. At d 9, the cumulative % recovery of 13C‐octanoic acid was lower in MSG‐4 and MSG‐6 groups. Our results suggest that enteral MSG supplementation slows gastric emptying in the developing gut. (Funded by Ajinomoto)
Nutritional predictors of muscle protein metabolism and function in older adults
Authors: Markofski Melissa M , Timmerman Kyle L , Fry Christopher S , Dickinson Jared M , Walker Dillon K , Rasmussen Blake B , Volpi Elena
Published: June 2021

Sarcopenia contributes to frailty in older adults and is associated with alterations in muscle protein metabolism. The purpose of this research was to examine the potential predictors of muscle protein synthesis and function in elders.

Methods

We report preliminary data from a subset of 8 healthy, sedentary subjects (69.5±3.4 yrs, BMI ≤30kg·m−2) enrolled in a larger study who met their dietary requirements. Linear regressions were carried out on the following variables: muscle protein fractional synthetic rate (FSR), muscle function tests, VO2peak, daily step count, dual energy x‐ray absorbometry (DEXA), 3‐day food diary, and blood biochemical analyses.

Results

The best linear regressors of FSR were soluble fiber (R2=−0.59, P=0.03) and vitamin D intake (R2=0.60, P=0.01). The best multiple regressors were soluble fiber and leucine intake (R2=0.85, P=0.009). When the subjects were divided by BMI into overweight (n=4) or normal weight (n=4), the overweight subjects had a lower relative lean body weight (62.2±6.2% vs. 70.4±8.3) and slower 20‐meter load carry with weight time (11.4±2.2 sec vs. 10.9±1.1).

In a group of healthy older adults who are meeting their recommended nutritional requirements, dietary factors influence FSR. Further, overweight subjects have additional negative health and functional outcomes. This study was supported by NIH R01 AG030070 and P30 AG024832.
Dietary L‐Trp supplementation increased hypothalamic serotonin without affecting aggressive behavior of pigs
Authors: Shen Yanbin , Voilque Gwendoline , Kim Sung Woo
Published: June 2021

Tryptophan (Trp) as a precursor of cerebral serotonin can affect behavior of animals. This study was to determine the optimal level of L‐Trp that would maximize the biological effects on regulating aggression. Pigs (n = 72, 6 wk old) were housed individually and allotted to 6 treatments (n = 12) representing supplementation with 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, or 1.0% L‐Trp to corn‐soybean meal based diets fed for 15 d. On d 5 and 10, pigs within a treatment were paired in pens for 2 d as their behaviors were recorded. On d 15, pigs were euthanized to obtain hypothalamus. Pigs with 0.8 and 1.0% L‐Trp had increased (P < 0.05) hypothalamic serotonin (939 and 616 μg/g protein) and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (2.9 and 2.2 mg/g protein) compared with pigs without L‐Trp (263 and 903 μg/g protein, respectively). Frequency of lying, eating, and standing was not affected by L‐Trp. However, pigs with 0.8 and 1.0% L‐Trp had increased (P < 0.05) frequency of standing (0.46 and 0.56%) and drinking (1.32 and 1.25%) compared with pigs without L‐Trp (1.36 and 0.74%, respectively). Aggressive behaviors were not affected during d 5 to 7. Pigs with 0.4% L‐Trp had increased (P < 0.05) frequency and duration of inverse parallel pressing compared with pigs with 0.2, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0% L‐Trp. Overall, dietary L‐Trp increased hypothalamic serotonin production but aggressive behaviors of pigs were not affected by increased L‐Trp supplementation.

Grant Funding Source: CJ Bio, Inc
The impact of Quality Protein Maize (QPM) on school children's weight and height: Results from an effectiveness trial in Colombia
Authors: Pachon Helena , Pico Sayda Milena , Gomez Jorge E.
Published: June 2021

QPM has a greater concentration of lysine and tryptophan and has been proven more efficacious than common maize (CM) in improving the weight and height of preschool children. The objective was to evaluate the impact on school children's weight and height of consuming QPM through a government‐supported school feeding program in rural Colombia. In a quasi‐experimental design, schools were assigned to receive QPM seed for planting (n=4), QPM for consuming (n=3), or CM for consuming (n=5). At baseline and 12 mo later at endline, children's (n=274) weight and height were measured. During the 2‐mo holiday period, children in the consumption groups were provided sufficient maize for the whole family. At baseline, children were 88 ± 16 (average ± SD) mo, 114.2 ± 8.0 cm tall, and weighed 21.6 ± 4.0 kg; 33.7% were stunted (HAZ<−2). Children in the seed group were 3 cm shorter than children in the consumption groups. By endline, children gained an average of 3 kg and 6 cm, independent of intervention group. These results did not change after adjusting for the cluster design and covariates. Tryptophan levels were 28% higher in QPM than CM, schools provided maize 38–166 school days during the academic year, and maize consumed by children ranged from 16 to 110 g/day. In conclusion, in the context of a governmental school feeding program, QPM did not improve school children's weight and height compared with CM. Funding: AgroSalud (CIDA 7034161).
Examination of an Abbreviated Household Food Security Survey in Rural Uganda
Authors: Stefani Monique Centrone , Charles Dustin , Garber Eden , Masinde Dorothy , Mazur Robert , Humphries Debbie
Published: June 2021

Household food security has been used to screen participants and evaluate program effectiveness for an agriculture and economic development project implemented by Volunteer Efforts for Development Concerns (VEDCO) in Kamuli District, eastern Uganda.

Objectives

This study examines the validity of The Latin American Household Food Security Measurement Scale (ELCSA) for use in an African region.

Methods

Stratified random sampling was used to select 70 households with children under the age of 6 yrs within six geographic parishes. Female caregivers (n = 70) in the household were interviewed for one to two hours.

Results

The 16‐item instrument is valid for this region (Cronbach's alpha= 0.94). However, a much smaller subset of questions, the ‘hunger’ domain consisting of four questions from the survey, achieves a comparable level of validity (Cronbach's alpha= 0.90) in assessing households at risk of food insecurity. Factor analysis of the 16‐item assessment tool confirms the hunger items as having core importance in the survey, in line with other recent literature.

Conclusions

The use of an abbreviated measurement tool would reduce participant burden in food security assessment. Research Support: The Wilbur G. Downs International Student Health Travel Fellowship and the Office of Student Research at the Yale School of Medicine.
Increments in Physical Activity in the “En Balance” Diabetes Education Program in Type 2 Hispanic Diabetics
Authors: Mendivil Francisco , Beeson Lawrence , Schulz Eloy , Firek Anthony , Balcazar Hector , De Leon Marino , Cordero‐MacIntyre Zaida R.
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the effect of “En Balance” on body composition and types of physical activity in participants.

Methods

The Family Habits Frequency Questionnaire was used to evaluate Hispanic subjects (n=9 males, 25 females) who participated in a 3 month education intervention with baseline and 3 month assessments. The Wilcoxon sign‐rank test was used to analyze changes in physical activity. The one within, one between ANOVA procedure was used to assess which type of physical activity had a significant influence on blood sugar control and body composition using fan beam dual X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA); Hologic Discovery A (software v. 12.6).

Results

Among Hispanic females, those who performed 30 minutes of daily physical activity showed a significant decreased in hemoglobin A1c levels (p=0.03). They also showed a significant increase in physical activity with dancing being the preferred method (p=0.02). Participation in soccer among male subjects had a significant influence on total fat reduction (p=0.04) and HDL level increments (p=0.02).

Conclusion

The culturally sensitive diabetes education program led to a significant improvement in body composition and blood sugar control with a significant influence of dancing among females and soccer involvement among males in this population of Hispanics with diabetes.

Grant Funding Source: CMS grant 03‐00335 and NIH award 5P20MP001632
Majoring in nutrition influences BMI of female college students
Authors: Shepanski Tahirih Linz , Hong Mee Young
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to identify factors affecting the dietary habits and food choices of college females majoring in nutrition (NM) compared to college females who are non‐nutrition (OM) majors. Volunteers, 101 NMs and 101 OMs, enrolled at SDSU, completed a 9‐page, 152‐item written questionnaire. BMIs were significantly different between groups (P=0.005) with NMs exhibiting a lower BMI; however, BMIs for both groups were within a healthy range. Fifty‐five percent of NMs reported nutritionally great meals vs. 32% of OMs reporting great meals (P<0.001). A healthier meal is the most influencing factor in 69% of NMs' meals while convenience (28%) and weight control (22%) are influencing factors in OMs' meals (P<0.001). Ninety‐nine percent of NMs read nutrition labels (P<0.001) and more NMs report that this affects their food choices (P=0.001). Nutrition majors get nutrition information from school education while a primary source of nutrition information for OMs is media (P<0.001). Nineteen percent of female students are skipping breakfast with more OMs skipping breakfast (P=0.036). Fourteen percent of OMs choose cookies and chips as a snack vs. 5% of NMs (P=0.042). University‐level nutrition education leads to better eating habits, meal patterns, and snack choices and this may contribute to lower BMI value in nutrition majors compared to non‐nutrition majors. Supported by SDSU NUTR 302L class.
Using the socio‐ecological model to assess the factors involved in getting preschool children to consume fruits and vegetables
Authors: Herrera Helen R. , Chika Satoko , Perez Alex , Goodell L. Suzanne
Published: June 2021

In order to understand human behavior and the ability for an individual to consume fruits and vegetables (FV), it is important to understand not just the individual, but also the actual environment within which the individual exists. Ecological models encompass an evolving body of theory and research concerned with the processes and conditions that govern the lifelong course of human development. The social‐ecological model presents a framework for understanding facilitators and motivators that influence the capacity to which a parent can manage to feed his/her child FV and get them to eat it. FV consumption among preschool children does not meet the dietary recommendations for FV. Because parents are mainly responsible for feeding their children, we conducted focus groups to gain better understanding of the impact of FV consumption in preschool children from low‐ income families through socio‐ecological lens. Although preliminary results, parents discussed themes at each level of the model, including wanting to be role models and desire to be healthier. Gaining this understanding can provide guidance for developing culturally appropriate, yet effective, intervention strategies for low‐income individuals and families with integration of socio‐ecological concepts.
Assessment of selection criteria used by internship directors for choosing Bastyr students, and of their competence as interns
Authors: Koutoubi Samer , Boutin Debra , Piccinin Doris , Caamano Wendy L , Guzman Michelle J , Henshaw Misha C , Hunter Jamie C , Lum Laine S , Rajcich Rebecca A , Rhine ORA J , Southworth Catherine E , White Carol J
Published: June 2021

We aimed to assess the selection criteria used by dietetic internship (DI) directors for choosing Bastyr University (BU) didactic program in dietetics (DPD) students and to assess their competence as dietetic interns. A 10‐question survey was sent to internship directors, annually from 2006 – 2009, who accepted BU‐DPD graduates. Selection criteria (volunteer and nutrition work‐related experience) and competency questions (communication skills, interpersonal relationships, research, whole foods, medical nutrition therapy, management/leadership, health systems, environmental science, and integrative medicine) were used. The survey compared BU‐DPD interns to interns from other programs. Of 103 surveys, 71 were completed (69% return rate). The DI directors considered volunteer (73.2%) and nutrition‐related work (87.3%) as highly relevant. They rated work/volunteer experience as follows: hospital experience most important (77.5%); community experience very important (43.7%); food service experience least important (42.3%). DI Directors rated BU‐DPD preparation as “Above Average” or “Excellent.” Bastyr interns scored “more than satisfactory” to “outstanding” in the competencies surveyed, especially integrative medicine and whole foods. Bastyr graduates were perceived to perform at a high level compared to the preparation of other interns in some of the specific competencies surveyed.
A Systematic Review of the Impact of Nutrition Education and Counseling on Anemia Prevalence and Iron Status in Women of Reproductive Age
Authors: Olude Oluwafunke , Webb‐Girard Amy , Ramakrishnan Usha , Reynaldo Martorell
Published: June 2021

Using modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) and CHERG (Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group) approaches, we systematically reviewed the scientific evidence of the impact of nutrition education and counseling (NEC) delivered to females 11–49 years of age on anemia and iron status. From a systematic search of Pubmed, Embase, Popline, Web of science and CINAHL, we identified 6 randomized controlled and 7 quasi‐experimental studies. Of the 13 studies reviewed 5 provided NEC only; 2 provided NEC as part of a comprehensive package of behavior change messages; and 6 provided NEC with nutrition support. Three studies were in developed and 10 in developing countries. Of the 11 studies with data on anemia prevalence, 6 reported significant reductions in the intervention group compared to the comparison group. Six of 8 studies reported significant increases in mean hemoglobin levels. Of the 7 studies reporting on iron status, none reported a significant impact. These observations were consistent for pregnant and nonpregnant women and different categories of NEC. Variability in the exposure outcome precluded the use of meta‐analysis.

Conclusion

NEC delivered alone or with nutrition support appears to positively impact anemia prevalence and hemoglobin levels but not iron status in women and adolescent girls.

Funding provided by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
Perceptions related to dietary supplements among college students
Authors: Brown Beth Rohling , Kavanagh Katherine , Paulus Trena , Spence Marsha
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to increase understanding of how college students perceive dietary supplements, including their experiences with and attitudes about these substances. This study used a qualitative case study design and content analysis of web log (blog) posts completed as an assignment in an undergraduate nutrition course. Students were asked to submit one initial post and at least five comments about dietary supplements using a blogging tool. Blog posts were coded and analyzed. The most commonly mentioned categories were explored, which revealed four main categories: supplements discussed and/or used, rationale for use, sources of information, and perceptions of the safety of supplements. The most commonly mentioned supplements were multivitatmins, diet pills, and protein supplements. The most frequently reported reason for supplement use was a perceived lack of nutrients in the diet. Information about dietary supplements came mainly from friends' or family members' experiences. Many students had misconceptions about supplements, were not familiar with them, and/or questioned their effectiveness. Based on the study findings, educational programs for college students should focus on common misconceptions; the safety and efficacy of supplements, especially diet pills and protein supplements; critical analysis of supplement information; and the appropriateness of supplement use.

Grant Funding Source: none
Nutrition Education for Practicing Physicians (NEPP)
Authors: Kohlmeier Martin , Adams Kelly , Zeisel Steven
Published: June 2021

The Nutrition in Medicine (NIM) project has a long history of curriculum development for medical students. We have now created innovative online nutrition instruction for physicians in training.

The new Nutrition Education for Practicing Physicians (NEPP) initiative employs the same successful platform already used by most US medical schools. NEPP is bringing evidence‐based clinical nutrition education to medical residents, preparing them to address the major nutrition‐related health concerns encountered in everyday practice. Our innovative approach presents very brief learning units that take 5–15 minutes to complete. We teach one nutrition‐related clinical skill at a time and engage the learners with practical exercises. The user gets immediate feedback on performance as part of the learning process. The exercises also continuously assess learning progress and direct navigation based on proficiency.

As part of our evaluation, we are embedding in the materials survey questions to determine how the previous use of learning units have led physicians to alter their nutrition practice behaviors. We expect that this unique curriculum for medical practitioners will ultimately improve patient outcomes. The online material for clinical nutrition education is available to all physicians in training free of charge at nutritioninmedicine.org.

Supported by the National Cancer Institute
Affects on timeliness of dietitian assessment in acute care: Nutrition screening in acute care related to hospital length of stay and timing of dietitian assessment
Authors: DeGarie Danielle , Gonzales Dana , Hays Nicholas , Hakkak Reza
Published: June 2021

Objective

To understand the relationship between two nutrition screening tools, timeliness of dietitian (RD) assessment, and length of hospital stay (HLOS).

Methods

A sample of 606 patients admitted to an acute care facility from a database of chart audits was analyzed. Descriptive statistics of timeliness of RD assessment and HLOS were conducted. Nutrition screening tools were compared using a t‐test to evaluate differences in referral rates, patients screened at risk, and timeliness of RD assessment.

Results

There was significant difference in patients screened at risk between tools (38.4% vs. 24.4%). In patients screened at risk, there was no significant association between tools and rate of referral or in day of RD assessment. Patients who were screened at risk and referred to were seen 1.97 days earlier than those not referred. There was no significant difference observed in HLOS comparing screening tools or based on RD referral in at risk patients.

Conclusion

Dietitian referral was shown to have the greatest impact on timeliness of RD assessment independent of the type of screening tool used. The screening tool that more closely resembled a previously validated tool showed more patients at risk but did not influence whether or not a referral was made. Continual evaluation of screening and referral practices is needed. Supported by Department of Dietetics and Nutrition.
A Qualitative Assessment of the Knowledge of Fruit and Vegetable Health Benefits among Preschoolers
Authors: Wetherill Erin Brooke , Carraway‐Stage Virginia , Goodell L. Suzanne
Published: June 2021

Obesity in children has become an increasing issue in the United States. Dietary habits are developed through exposure and most children do not meet the recommended guidelines for fruits and vegetable intake; 42% of 2 year olds and 50% of 5 year olds consumes less than 2 servings per day. Research concerning the knowledge of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables among preschool children is limited. The purpose of this qualitative study was to establish baseline data on what preschool children know about the health benefits of fruits and vegetables through the use of cognitive interviews. A small sample of children 3–5 years of age from low‐income families, were chosen to participate in the study. Children were asked three open‐ended questions to analyze their knowledge of health benefits related to eating fruits and vegetables. Responses were recorded and coded for interpretation of the data. Information obtained from the cognitive interviews will be used to develop a practical, reliable, and valid method for evaluation of fruit and vegetable knowledge among preschool aged children.
Changes in BMI and dietary intakes after implementation of the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Authors: Winham Donna M , Wolven Jessica R , Thompson Sharon V , Richards Timothy R
Published: June 2021

We evaluated the effectiveness of the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) in two elementary schools (intervention, control). We collected anthropometry, food security and dietary intakes via the Block Food Frequency children's questionnaire from 364 children in August 2008 and in May 2009. The FFVP intervention had little if any affect on altering dietary patterns or BMI percentiles. The lack of change may be due to program implementation more than the program concept. We offer suggestions to improve the execution of the FFVP. First, schools should plan which fruits and vegetables are to be provided so baseline evaluation can account for these items. Second, serving foods or access alone is insufficient to change behavior or to increase knowledge. Third, adequate time to collect data from children who vary in skill levels is necessary. Fourth, the recent economic crisis may have altered results. Positive findings include increased awareness of some fruits and vegetables featured in the FFVP at the intervention school, and decreased BMIs between fall and spring across all children. Food insecurity increased between fall and spring, but was not linked to BMI or dietary intake changes. Quantification of the specific fruits and vegetables to be introduced will help detect change from the FFVP intervention. Partial funding provided by the Morrison School of Agribusiness.
Global Uterine and Blastocyst Gene Expression Patterns Associated with Maternal Overweight at Conception
Authors: Shankar Kartik , Zhong Ying , Kang Ping , Andres Aline , Ronis Martin J , Badger Thomas M
Published: June 2021

We examined the impact of maternal overweight (OW) on gene expression in the uterus and peri‐implantation blastocysts using microarrays. At dpc 4.5, blastocysts were collected from lean and OW female rats, and mRNA and genomic DNA isolated from individual blastocysts (~70–80/group). Sex was determined using nested PCR for the Y‐chromosome and gender‐specific gene expression analysis was carried out using Affymetrix microarrays (N = 3–4 arrays/group). Uterine gene expression was also assessed (N = 6–8 per group) and data analysis performed using GeneSpring v11.0. Exposure to maternal obesity altered 407 transcripts (± 1.3‐fold, p < 0.05) in the uterus. GO analyses revealed immune response and chemokine‐related functions as most significantly affected. Increased mRNA expression of TLR2, CCL2, CCL5, CxCL10 and Ccr1 (p<0.05) was confirmed by real‐time PCR. Blastocyst gene expression was clearly influenced by maternal adiposity (transcripts altered ± 1.4‐fold, p < 0.05; 359 in male and 291 in female embryos). Male embryos showed increased expression of proinflammatory genes (CCL4, CCL5) and decreased mRNA of Gpx3. However, the influence of maternal obesity on embryonic gene expression was highly sexually dimorphic (only ~10% transcripts in common). Our results suggest that mechanisms related to programming of offspring obesity maybe initiated very early in development. UDSA ARS‐CRIS 6251‐51000‐005‐00D.
Postnatal leptin prevents neonates hypothermia and restores normal adipose tissue development in IUGR piglets
Authors: Najar Latifa Abdennebi , Attig Linda , Abdelnour Afif , Niamba Claude Narcisse , Orthez Carine Delayre , Larcher Thibault , Boukthir Monia Abdennebi , Gertler Arieh
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of postnatal leptin supplementation in IUGR piglets on birth thermoregulation, endocrine profile and adipose tissue structure at weaning. Leptin enhanced corporal body temperature 48 hours after birth and plasma thyroxin level at weaning in IUGR leptin group as compared to IUGR saline. IUGR animals presented an altered adipose tissue structure relative to controls with less brown adipose tissue (BAT). Leptin enhanced BAT content in IUGR animals and decreased plasma triglycerides levels at weaning. As conclusion postnatal leptin could prevent neonates hypothermia and protects against obesity at later life.
Effect of paternal and maternal folate deficiency on fetal brain folate metabolism in rats
Authors: Kim Hye Won , Tamura Tsunenobu , Chang Namsoo
Published: June 2021

To test the hypothesis that paternal folate deficiency impacts fetal brain folate metabolism as much as maternal deficiency does, we studied the effect of the combination of paternal folate sufficiency (PS), deficiency (PD), maternal folate sufficiency (MS) and deficiency (MD) on folate content and folate transporter expression in rat fetal brain. After 4‐week feeding of either a low‐folate (no folic acid added) or folate‐sufficient diet (8 mg folic acid/kg diet), rats were mated, and the fetal whole brain was obtained at 20‐day gestation, and folate content and the expression of reduced‐folate carrier 1 (RFC1) and folate receptor α (FRα) were measured (5 rats/group). Fetal brain folate content in the PS‐MS group was significantly higher than those in the other 3 groups (P < 0.05). RFC1 expression was highest in the fetal brain of the PD‐MD group followed by the PD‐MS, PS‐MD and PS‐MS groups in the descending order. RFC1 expression in the PD‐MD group was ~200% higher than that in PS‐MS group (P < 0.05). No detectable FRα expression was found in the fetal brain of all groups. Collectively, we believe that paternal folate status plays a critical role in regulating folate content and the RFC1 expression in the fetal brain. Further studies are warranted to investigate the effect and its mechanism(s) of paternal folate status on fetal brain development.
Analysis of dietary pattern and nutritional status for adults in Hubei, China
Authors: Song Yi , Liu Su , Li Jun , Gong Chengrui
Published: June 2021

To describe and analyze the dietary pattern and nutritional status in Hubei province, we used a subpopulation aged 18–45 years old in Hubei province from an ongoing cohort study, China Health and Nutrition Survey. Trained nutritionists collected detailed diet data by using weighing method in combination with 3 consecutive 24‐hour recalls. Experienced physicians collected anthropometric data. We applied factor analysis to define major dietary patterns. The prevalence of underweight and overweight was 5.2 % and 32.3 % in Hubei residents in 2009, respectively. Fruit and dairy consumption remained at very low levels over this period while the consumption of dietary fat and added salt remained at very high levels. Residents in urban areas consumed more meat and meat products than those in rural areas, while residents in both urban and rural areas reduced fish and seafood intake. Energy and protein intakes levels were above the Chinese reference nutrient intake (RNI) while fat intake was excessive in all subpopulations. Urban residents consumed more energy, protein and fat from animal foods. Inadequate levels of thiamine, riboflavin and calcium were found. Overall these dietary changes are linked with a major increase in obesity in Hubei.

This study was supported by NIH (R01‐HD30880) and Fogarty International Center, NIH (5D43TW007709).
Evaluation of Intakes of Fruits and Vegetables among Foreign‐Born Chinese Immigrants
Authors: Fang Chengshun , Feng Jiyou , Manning Carolyn K , He Gengsheng
Published: June 2021

The purposes of this study were to assess the average daily intakes of fruits and vegetables (IFV) of Chinese immigrants comparing to the USDA recommendations for American; and to evaluate the influence of acculturation on IFV in Chinese immigrants. Foreign‐born Chinese immigrants were invited by emails to participate an online survey, which assess their sociodemographic, acculturation, and dietary intake characteristics. The questionnaires assessing IFV was adopted from a validated instrument developed by the National Cancer Institute. A total of 134 Chinese immigrants responded to the invitation, although only 102 of them qualified and completed the survey. The average daily intakes of fruits were 1.21 cups; while the average intakes of vegetables were 1.93 cups. Thus the average daily IFV were 3.14 cups. There was no significant difference in the intakes of fruits and/or vegetables between male and female subjects. We failed to find significant difference in the intakes of fruits and/or vegetables between three age groups (ages 19–30, 31–40, and 41–50). However, the intakes of vegetable and IFV depended on the years‐of‐living in US. The longer the immigrants stayed in US, the greater their intakes of vegetables and total IFV were. The level of education didn't seem to have an impact on the intakes of fruits and/or vegetables. According to USDA, the recommended daily intakes of fruits and vegetables should be two cups and two and half cups, respectively. Based on our survey, Chinese immigrants did not meet the recommendations, especially those that just migrated to this country.