bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective assessment of growth in infants exposed to HIV in utero
Authors: Manion Erika , Jones Lauren , Lawrence Robert , Borum Peggy R.
Published: June 2021

The objective of the study was to evaluate growth in uninfected infants exposed to HIV.

This retrospective study was approved by the UF Institutional Review Board. Infants exposed to HIV enrolled from 1997 to 2009 in the UF Pediatric Immunology Program (n=198) were stratified into 5 age groups ranging from birth to 24 months in age. An average height, weight, and BMI z‐score were calculated and compared to the 2000 CDC growth charts and WHO growth charts reference populations. The student's t test was conducted using the Palaside StatTools Program and SAS 9.2.

The table below compares mean z‐scores of the exposed infant population to the mean z‐scores of the reference population. Height and weight z‐scores of this infant population are both below that of the reference population, but demonstrate different patterns of change during the first 24 months of life.

Linear growth is stunted in infants exposed to HIV in utero. The BMI z‐score of this infant population is significantly larger than the reference population mean after 4 months of age. The growth of exposed infants should be followed more carefully and for a longer period of time.

Height
Weight
BMI

Birth
−0.698**
−0.961**
−0.683**

0–3 Months
−1.121**
−0.781**
−0.382**

4–6 Months
−0.581**
−0.173
0.209*

7–12 Months
−0.326**
−0.303*
0.333*

13–24 Months
−0.233*
−0.323**
0.771**

p<0.05

p<0.01
Acute dose of fructooligosaccharide significantly increases calcium absorption in lower gut
Authors: Egan Kara A , Martin Berdine R , Francis Coni C , Weaver Connie M
Published: June 2021

Increasing calcium (Ca) absorption during adolescent growth may help increase peak bone mass. Previous data show that short chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) increase fractional Ca absorption (Fxabs) from a single meal in adults (Fukushima et al. 2002). This study examined the acute effect of scFOS on Ca absorption in 15 adolescent girls in a cross‐over design separated by a 3 week washout period. Fasting urine and blood samples were collected. Breakfast was served containing 230 mg Ca plus ~15 mg 44Ca, a stable isotope, combined with either 0 or 3 g scFOS, in a nutritional drink. One h later, 5 mg 43Ca was infused intravenously. After 3 h, the final blood sample was drawn. A controlled diet was provided and urine was collected for 24‐h. Fxabs was measured from isotope ratios in 3 h serum and 5, 16, and 24 h urine. Fxabs estimated from urine was plotted vs. time and area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. In a linear model including treatment sequence and baseline serum Ca concentration, the effect of scFOS on serum Fxabs did not differ from control (p=0.66). However, the effect of scFOS supplementation measured by urine AUC became significant by 16 hours (p<0.05) using the same model. Thus the positive effect of scFOS on Ca absorption may be due to increased absorption in the lower gastrointestinal tract warrants further study. This study was sponsored by GTC Nutrition and Abbott Nutrition, Abbot Laboratories.
Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) improves immune cell populations after influenza vaccination of healthy subjects.
Authors: Gardner Elizabeth M , Beli Eleni , Kempf Lawrence P , Lifton Daniel , Fujii Hajime
Published: June 2021

Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC), an extract of the Basidiomycetes mushroom, has immunomodulatory effects in animal and human studies. We performed a randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial to evaluate the effects of AHCC supplementation on the immune response of healthy adults after immunization with 2009–10 seasonal influenza vaccine. A total of 29 subjects were enrolled in this study: 14 were supplemented with AHCC (total of 3000 mg/day) and 15 were given a placebo on the day of vaccination throughout two weeks post‐vaccination. Blood was drawn at immunization and two weeks later for phenotypic analysis of lymphocytes using flow cytometry. The fold increases in percentages of T cells, CD8+ T (cytotoxic) cells, CD56+ (NK) cells, but not CD4/CD8 ratios, were significantly higher than at vaccination for AHCC‐supplemented subjects. Although AHCC supplementation did not alter NK cell percentages post‐vaccination, CD56 bright cytotoxic NK cells were higher in AHCC than the placebo group. AHCC supplementation had a more dramatic effect on immune cell phenotypes after vaccination of subjects over 60 years old. This suggests that short‐term AHCC supplementation may be a good therapeutic intervention to sustain, or increase, the immune response to influenza vaccination in healthy subjects. Supported by Amino Up Chemical Company, Sapporo, Japan.
Use of the mobile telephone Food Record (mpFR) does not mitigate reduced dietary intake in adolescents
Authors: Schap TusaRebecca E. , Six Bethany L , Kerr Deborah A , Delp Edward J , Ebert David S , Boushey Carol J.
Published: June 2021

The mobile phone Food Record (mpFR) is a novel diet assessment tool (Six, 2010; Zhu 2009). Zepeda (2008) suggested that use of image‐based food records leads to reduced food intake. However, no quantitative analysis comparing self‐reported energy to expected energy intake (EEI) was reported. Our objective was to investigate the influence of mpFR use on EEI for meals and 24‐hr dietary intake. Distribution of energy intake (breakfast 16%, lunch 27%, dinner 33%, snacks 24%) was derived from results among 8th graders (Dwyer, 2001) and used to determine EEI as a percent of estimated energy requirement (EER). In a controlled setting, 26 boys and 51 girls aged 11–18 y used the mpFR to record meals eaten to satiation. Adolescents ate breakfast (n=70), lunch (n=78), and dinner and snacks (n=15). There was no significant difference between the EER and known energy consumed over 24‐hr (n=15, p = 0.352). Boys consumed significantly less energy from snacks than expected (mean difference 324 kcal, SE 111, p = 0.014). Girls consumed significantly more energy at dinner than expected (mean difference 196 kcal, SE 43, p = 0.044). Those with a BMI for age in the 85–95th percentile ate significantly less energy at lunch than expected (p = 0.047, mean difference 88 kcal). These results suggest that mpFR use does not mitigate behavior change in adolescents. The mpFR holds promise to accurately assess daily energy intake in adolescents.

NCI, NIDDK
Kinetic Analysis of A Single Bolus Intake of Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan)‐containing Liquid Dietary Supplement, JULE of the Orient™ on Human Peripheral Blood Circulation
Authors: Amagase Harunobu , Campbell Julie
Published: June 2021

We examined the effects of a single bolus intake of Gynostemma pentaphyllum (jiaogulan)‐containing herbal tonic named JULE of the Orient™ (JULE) on peripheral blood circulation at various time points after intake in healthy female human subjects (n=6; average age=34.5 y) who complained of cold hands and feet. JULE contains water‐extracted jiaogulan standardized for its main active constituents, gypenoside saponins, which is reported to increase nitric oxide generation in the arterial wall in in vitro study. The kinetic effect of a single bout of JULE (60 ml) intake on peripheral blood circulation was investigated as flow rate in both hands scanned by laser‐Doppler at baseline, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6 hours after intake. The flow rate was statistically analyzed by paired t‐test. JULE intake significantly increased circulation by 60% more than baseline level at 2–4 hours after intake (P<0.01) and gradually lowered 6 hours after intake. The area under the curve 0 through 6 hours over the baseline level after JULE intake was significantly higher than placebo group (P<0.01). These results suggest that JULE may have an acute stimulating effect on peripheral blood circulation that may contribute to its improvements in various subjective symptoms shown in a separate clinical study.
Blood pressure responses to consumption of two different carbohydrate‐restricted diets versus a lower fat diet
Authors: Kern Mark , Petrisko Yumi , Kloss Rebecca , Bradley Patricia , Spindler Audrey
Published: June 2021

During weight loss, carbohydrate‐restricted diets produce favorable metabolic effects; however, few studies have evaluated the potential role of the type of food consumed in these fat‐rich diets. Eighteen subjects (BMI=30–38) consumed three diets in a randomized, balanced cross‐over design for 4 weeks separated by 4‐week washout periods. Diets were designed to provide 1600 kcals for women (n=14) and 2200 kcals for men (n=4) to promote weight loss. Diets included approximately 61% of energy from carbohydrate (CHO), 18% protein (PRO), and 21% fat for the low fat (LF) diet and 10% CHO, 30% PRO, and 60% fat for the very low carbohydrate (VLC) diets. One of the VLC diets was primarily plant and mushroom (170 g/d) based (VLCPM) and the other provided more fat and protein from animal foods. Significant main effects for decreased (p<0.05) systolic and diastolic blood pressures (BPs) for the trials were detected. Post‐hoc examination with paired t‐tests revealed that only within the VLCPM trial were the decreases in both BPs statistically significant (p<0.05). The change in systolic BP during the LF diet bordered on significance (p=0.065). It is unclear whether the more robust decreases in BP after consuming the VLCPM diet is due to slightly greater loss of body weight or a diet component. Further investigation into the potential influence of plants and mushrooms on BP is warranted.

Supported by the Mushroom Council.
Testing of anti‐atherogenic drugs on cell cultures: reliability questioned
Authors: Jargin Sergei V.
Published: June 2021

In the series of publications, started in 1986 by E.I. Chazov et al. (The Lancet, 2:595) and continued until today by A.N. Orekhov until today, was reported that culturing of smooth muscle cells with the serum from patients with cardiac atherosclerosis caused lipid infiltration of the cultured cells, while serum from healthy individuals had no such effect. Cell cultures were used for testing of drugs and food components for the purpose of their official registration. Numerous substances have been reported anti‐atherogenic: statins, trapidil, prostaglandin E2, dibutyryl cyclic AMP, calcium antagonists, lipoxygenase inhibitors, carbacyclin, extracts of different mushrooms species, quid liver, krill meat, derivatives of garlic, black elder berries, calendula, violet flowers, hop cones, grape seeds etc. On the contrary, beta‐blockers, phenothiazines, oral hypoglycemics etc. were reported pro‐atherogenic. Clinical recommendations were formulated including exact dosage of drugs. It is known, however, that anti‐atherogenic or lipid‐lowering agents can influence cholesterol synthesis, lipid metabolism in the liver or endothelium‐related mechanisms. All these targets are absent in cell cultures. In vivo, relationship between cholesterol uptake by cells and atherogenesis is inverse rather than direct: in familial hypercholesterolemia caused by abnormality of cellular LDL‐receptors, which are present also on the smooth muscle cells, inefficient clearance of LDL causes hypercholesterolemia and predisposition to atherosclerosis. Accordingly, if a pharmacological agent reduces cellular cholesterol uptake in vitro, it should be expected to cause cholesterol elevation in vivo. Unreliability of results and conclusions can be proven by reductio ad absurdum: pharmacological agents which are “anti‐atherogenic” in cell cultures must be pro‐atherogenic in vivo.
Early nutrition affects intestinal CD3+ T‐cell localization in the neonatal piglet
Authors: Radlowski Emily Clare , Wang Mei , Monaco Marcia , Donovan Sharon M
Published: June 2021

Immune development of breastfed and formula‐fed neonates differs, in part due to the oligosaccharides in human milk. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that the addition of prebiotics to formula would modify T cell numbers and T helper cell phenotype. Colostrum‐deprived piglets were randomized to be sow‐reared (SR) or fed formula (F) or formula + fructooligosaccharides (scFOS; 2 g/L) and polydextrose (PDX; 2 g/L) (F+P) for 14 days. CD3+ T‐cell numbers were assessed in ileum by immunohistochemistry and cytokine mRNA expression by RT‐qPCR. Ileal villi of SR piglets had a greater (p=0.015) number CD3+ T cells than F+P piglets, whereas F piglets were intermediate and not significantly different than SR and F+P piglets. The villi of F+P and F piglets had 40% and 25% fewer CD3+ T cells, respectively, than SR. Interleukin (IL)‐10, IL‐12 and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β were chosen to reflect Th2, Th1 and T‐regulatory T‐cell populations as the balance of these populations can affect gastrointestinal and, possibly, systemic immune development. There were no significant differences in cytokine expression (IL‐10, IL‐12, TGF‐β) between the three diet groups (SR, F, FP). These data suggest that scFOS and PDX in formula fed to healthy piglets did not alter ileal T cell numbers or cell phenotype relative to formula alone (BMS Freedom to Discover Award).
Dietary fiber consumption from school lunch in south area of Korea
Authors: Shin Dongsoon , Choi Mijung
Published: June 2021

In recent years, the school aged children and adolescents have been choosing to eat much more fast foods, high fat main dishes, cake and soft drinks, compared to the older generations. Dietary fiber consumption was one of the dietary guidelines for improving their health for example preventing obesity or overweight or related metabolic syndrome. This study was conducted to estimate the dietary fiber intake of children aged 11 to 15 from school lunch. Total 130 lunch dishes, that is, the 30 kinds of cooked rice, 29 kinds of soup, 64 kinds of entrees, 16 kinds of kimchi were collected from three primary schools and three middle schools in Masan city. Among them, 50 cousines which were the basic components of Korean meals, were analyzed the contents of dietary fiber. Cooked rices, soups, entrees and kimchies were provided the dietary fiber approximately 0.45g(0.05~0.88), 1.90g(0.59~2.74), 2.04g(0.62~5.07), 3.63g(1.25~5.25), respectively. From Korean traditional cousines at school lunch, the school aged children and adolescents could consume dietary fiber average 8.0g even though except fruits.
Metabolic clearance and tolerance of Milk Thistle flavonolignans in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: NATH SUBRATA , Alcantara Orlando , Bostanjian Ella , Gear Christine , Abboud Hanna , Al‐Shahrouri Hania , Fanti Paolo
Published: June 2021

Milk thistle (MTh) flavonolignans are used as antioxidants. Little is known about the effectiveness of these compounds in subjects with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We compared MTh flavonolignans pharmacokinetics (PK) in 9 male subjects with T2DM, albuminuria and different stages of CKD. Subjects were divided into Group 1 (G1; n=4; 55–75 yr) with normal or mildly compromised renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 67–113 ml/min) and microalbuminuria (108–234 mg/24‐hr); and Group 2 (G2; n=5; age 61–65 yr) with moderate to severely compromised renal function (eGFR 18–53 ml/min) and albuminuria (120–7243 mg/24‐hr). MTh flavonolignans were administered orally as phosphatidylcholine complex (Siliphos, Indena, USA). Each subject underwent PK study twice after oral intake of 160 mg Siliphos – in the naïve state and after 7 days twice‐daily intake of Siliphos. Serial blood samples were collected before (time 0) and 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hrs after Siliphos, and were analyzed by HPLC. Peak values of the active compound silybin were not different between groups: 476 ± 312 ng/ml at 1 hr in G1, and 365 ± 78 ng/ml at 4 hrs in G2. Silybin levels returned to baseline 8 and 12 hrs after Siliphos in G1 and G2, respectively. No difference in PK was noted when comparing the naïve state and the 7‐day exposure to Siliphos. All subjects tolerated Siliphos well, irrespective of renal function level.

Supported by NIH AT4490‐01
Factors influencing shopping habits among low‐income families during a one‐month period of time
Authors: Darko Janice , Richards Rickelle
Published: June 2021

Objective

To evaluate changes in shopping behaviors among low‐income families over a one‐month period of time.

Methods

Two researchers conducted thirteen 90‐minute focus groups among low‐income adults who had at least one child less than 18 years in their household (n=72). Transcripts were coded independently by two researchers, with any differences reconciled.

Results

Shopping habits among low‐income families changed throughout the month and were impacted by use of food assistance programs, food prices, and shopping logistics. Participants reported purchasing more varied foods at the beginning of the month versus more starch‐based foods at the end of the month. To overcome economic barriers, participants used numerous strategies including weekly or monthly menu planning, price matching, and bulk buying.

Conclusions

Low‐income families make strategic decisions based on economic circumstances and other factors, including participation in food assistance programs, or the timing of the month, in order to stretch food expenditures. Our results suggest limited economics throughout the month may hinder families’ ability to consume a varied, nutrient‐rich diet, which may impact future health status.

This research study was internally funded by Brigham Young University.
Effects of low‐fat, high‐carbohydrate diet on plasma lipoprotein(a) and oxidized phospholipids
Authors: Faghihnia Nastaran , Tsimikas Sotirios , Miller Elizabeth R. , Witztum Joseph L. , Krauss Ronald M.
Published: June 2021

Low‐fat diets have been shown to increase plasma concentrations of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], a preferential carrier of oxidized phospholipids (OxPL) in plasma, as well as small, dense LDL particles. We sought to determine whether increases in plasma Lp(a) induced by a low‐fat, high‐carbohydrate (LFHC) diet are related to changes in OxPL and LDL subclasses. We studied 63 healthy subjects after 4 weeks of consuming, in random order, a high‐fat, low‐carbohydrate (HFLC) diet and a LFHC diet. Plasma lipids, lipoproteins, apolipoprotein (apo) B and A‐1, Lp(a) and OxPL content on apoB‐100 (OxPL/apoB) were measured at the end of each diet. Plasma concentrations of Lp(a) (P < 0.01) and OxPL/apoB (P < 0.005) were significantly higher on the LFHC diet compared to the HFLC diet, whereas LDL peak particle size was significantly smaller (P < 0.0001). Diet‐induced changes in Lp(a) were strongly correlated with changes in OxPL/apoB (P < 0.0001). The increases in plasma Lp(a) levels after the LFHC diet were associated with diet‐induced decreases in medium LDL particles (P < 0.01) and increases in very small LDL particles (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that specific diets may influence circulating Lp(a) levels and their associated OxPL.
Effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on calcium homeostasis in ovariectomized mice
Authors: Park Yooheon , Park Yeonhwa
Published: June 2021

Previously, co‐supplementation of calcium and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has shown to improve bone mass in mice. In this study, we tested the possible beneficial effect of CLA on enhancing calcium's effect on bone mass during a bone loss period by employing ovariectomy. Ninety 16‐week‐old female CD‐1 mice were divided into experimental groups; 4 groups of ovarietomized animals (OVX) fed diet with 2 levels of calcium (0.5% and 1%) with or without CLA (0.5% CLA as mixed isomer) and two groups of sham‐operated animals (with or without 0.5% CLA). All data was analyzed with 2‐way analysis of variance (calcium and treatment diets among ovariectomized animals, and operation and treatment diets among 1% calcium). Uterine weight was significantly decreased (P<0.0001) in OVX while body weight was significantly increased (P<0.0001) showing that all the animals were successfully ovariectomized. Body weight as well as body fat contents were significantly reduced by all CLA treatments, but not by calcium supplementation alone. Serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were significantly increased by CLA treatments (P=0.0172), while PTH levels were decreased by calcium supplementation (P<0.0001). These results suggest that CLA influences calcium homeostasis by modulating PTH levels.

Supported by NIH 1R21AT004456.
Anti‐obesity effect of methanol extract of gromwell in 3T3‐L1 cells and obese mice
Authors: Chon Jeongwoo , Yeo Joo‐Hong , Kim Hye‐Ryeon , Choi You‐Youn , Park Yoo‐Kyoung
Published: June 2021

Gromwell has been used as an oriental medicine and a folk remedy for the treatment of burns, anal ulcers, macular eruption, and wound healing. However, relatively not so much of findings were published regarding effects on anti‐obesity of gromwell. With treatment of gromwell the number of normal cells was decreased and the number of apoptotic cells was increased dependently. The accumulation of triglyceride was decreased in 3T3‐L1 cells treated with gromwell as compared with untreated cells. Moreover gromwell suppressed differentiated of 3T3‐L1 cells by inhibiting expression transcriptional of genes coding for adipogenesis enzymes and up‐regulated of expression transcriptional of the regulatory enzymes of fatty oxidation. After obesity in mice was achieved, mice were administered with LGR (100 mg/b.w/day) and HGR (300 mg/b.w/day) by oral gavages for 10 weeks, respectively. At the end of the experiment, the body weight of gromwell groups was reduced 16.21% (LGR), 11.46% (HGR) as compared to the high fat diet (HFD) group. In serum level of triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glucose of LGR group was significantly decreased compared with HFD group while the serum level of HDL‐C was significantly increased. Also, serum leptin level of gromwell groups were significantly decreased compared with HFD group. The expression of lipolytic enzyme increased in gromwell groups compare with that HFD group. The overall results imply that methanol extract of gromwell may be used as potential therapeutic substance as part of prevention or treatment strategy of obesity.
Hypoglycemia causes depressive‐like behaviors in mice
Authors: Park Min Jung , Yoo Samuel W , Choe Brian S , Dantzer Robert , Freund Gregory G
Published: June 2021

Mood changes are induced by hypoglycemia in humans and their symptoms include a reduction in hedonic tone and in energetic arousal. While these clinical symptoms are well characterized, their underlying mechanism is not. C57BL/6J mice were administered insulin that generated a blood glucose nadir of 56 ± 6 mg/dl 0.75 h after 0.8 units/kg insulin injection. At 4 h post insulin administration, blood glucose had returned to normal (151 ± 19 mg/dl). Insulin administered mice had saccharin aversion (62 % vs 90.5 % of total fluid consumption) in the saccharin preference test and increased immobility in the forced swim test. In addition, insulin‐treated mice had a 14‐fold increase in liver IL‐6 when compared with saline‐treated mice. Insulin increased plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine in 24 h post insulin treatment. Importantly, blocking of the adrenergic receptors ablated the behaviors of insulin‐induced saccharine aversion and of increased immobility in forced swim test. Taken together, these data indicate that anhedonia and depressive‐like behaviors are induced by hypoglycemia and those behaviors are dependent on IL‐6, catecholamines, and adrenergic receptor‐mediated manner.

This research was supported by Grants from the National Institutes of Health (DK064862, NS058525 and AA019357 to G.G.F.), USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Hatch project number #ILLU‐971‐32.
Added sugars in diet and risk of total and cause‐specific mortality in a large US cohort
Authors: Tasevska Natasa , Park Yikyung , Subar Amy F. , Schatzkin Arthur , Potischman Nancy
Published: June 2021

Consumption of added sugars is increasing worldwide and parallels the global rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular (CVD) and type 2 diabetes. Although previous studies have linked added sugars intake with incidence of these diseases, its association to mortality is unknown. Participants (n=435,674) aged 50 – 71 years from the NIH‐AARP Diet and Health Study with no history of major chronic disease at baseline were followed‐up for 10 years. Intake of added sugars was assessed at baseline using a 124‐item food frequency questionnaire. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for total mortality and mortality of cancer and CVD were estimated in multivariable models adjusted for potential risk factors using Cox proportional hazards regression. We identified 18,904 deaths in men and 9,786 deaths in women. After multivariable adjustment, intake of added sugars was no longer positively associated with the risk of total mortality in either men (Ptrend = 0.37) or women (Ptrend = 0.11). The investigation of cause‐specific mortality revealed only weak inverse association between added sugars and risk of CVD in men (HRQ5 vs Q1 = 0.85; 95%CI = 0.77 – 0.93; Ptrend = 0.008). In this US cohort, added sugars were not associated with all‐cause mortality, and only showed a weak protective effect for CVD in men. Supported by the Intramural Research Program of the U.S. DHHS NIH/NCI.
Evaluate the effects of Njangsa Oil Seeds on Lipid Metabolism and Expression of Stearoyl‐Coenzyme A Desaturase in Laying Hens
Authors: Besong Samuel Ayuk , Fossung Celestine Nke , Jones Ayasha S , Fondong Vincent , Hankoua Bertrand
Published: June 2021

Stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) is an integral membrane protein that catalyzes the biosynthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids that are required for the synthesis of triglycerides, cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. SCD regulation may alter hepatic lipid metabolism and prevent liver steatosis in laying hen. The purpose of this study was to determine whether njangsa oil seed (NOS) (Ricinodendron heudelotii) with high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids can regulate the expression of SCD gene and hepatic lipid metabolism in laying hen. We conducted a study in which forty‐two white leghorn hens were randomly assigned to treatments containing: 1) layer diet without NOS (control); 2) layer diet plus 10% NOS or 3) layer diet plus 20% NOS for 6 weeks. SCD mRNA was quantified using forward and reverse primers specific to chicken SCD1 in real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR) technique with SYBER Green detection. Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis revealed that SCD gene was highly (P>0.05) expressed in hens fed NOS when compared with those on control diet. Biochemical analysis of blood lipids revealed that plasma triglyceride, cholesterol‐E, free cholesterol and HDL‐cholesterol were higher in NOS fed hens when compared to those on control diet. These results suggest that supplementing hens’ diet with NOS may alter lipid metabolism and regulate the expression of SCD gene in laying hens.
Rhodiola‐induced anti‐adipogenic effect correlates with coordinated changes of antioxidant responses in 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Lee Ok Hwan , Kim Yong Ook , Swick Jennifer , Kim Young‐Cheul
Published: June 2021

Adipogenesis is a key process in the development of obesity and accumulated lipids of adipose tissue in obese state generate excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to elevated systemic oxidative stress. We have shown that Rhodiola extract dose‐dependently suppressed adipogenesis and ROS level in a PPARγ‐dependent manner. Here we investigated whether the anti‐adipogenic effect of Rhodiola extract and tyrosol, a major phenolic compound present in Rhodiola, alters endogenous antioxidant enzyme responses linked to hexose monophosphate (HMP) shunt during adipogenesis. 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes were differentiated with varying concentrations of Rhodiola extract or tyrosol for up to 8 days. Treatment of Rhodiola or tyrosol significantly inhibited mRNA level and enzyme activity of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), a rate‐limiting enzyme in HMP pathway. These treatments also markedly reduced mRNA expression of glutathione reductase (GR) and NADPH oxidase (NOX4), a major ROS generator in adipocytes. The inhibition of G6PD likely prevented NADPH production required for NOX4 and lipid synthesis, resulting in reduced ROS level and GR activity. However, copper‐zinc superoxide dismutase and catalase mRNAs were expressed at high levels and not significantly affected. These results indicate that Rhodiola‐induced antioxidant effect is attributable to a phenolic tyrosol and may involve direct downregulation of PPARγ or via inhibition of HMP pathway linked to antioxidant responses in adipocytes.
The protective effect of bee venom against ethanol‐induced hepatic injury via regulation of the mitochondria‐related apoptotic pathway
Authors: Park Kwan‐Kyu , Park Ji‐Hyun , Kim Kyung‐Hyun , Kim Soo‐Jung , Lee Woo‐Ram , Han Sang‐mi , Lee Kwang‐gil
Published: June 2021

Alcohol consumption increases apoptosis of hepatocytes. Death of hepatocytes is a characteristic feature of chronic liver disease for various causes. Bee venom (Apis mellifera) has been traditionally used for the treatment of various chronic diseases, such as chronic inflammatory arthritis and chronic liver disease. However, the precise mechanism for bee venom in chronic liver disease is not still cleared. To assess the effects of bee venom in chronic liver disease, we investigated the potential role of the bee venom in the ethanol‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis. Bee venom treatment inhibited the apoptotic cell morphology and increased cell viability in ethanol‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis. With ethanol treatment, bee venom treated hepatocytes increased activity of Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL, reduced activity of Bax, Caspase and PARP. In conclusion, bee venom treatment in ethanol‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis occurred through the regulation of Bcl‐family with subsequent inactivation of the Caspase and PARP. These results suggest that bee venom could be an effective agent to reduce ethanol‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis.

This work was supported by a grant (2007030103400101) from Biogreen 21 Program, Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.
C‐reactive protein levels in blood and saliva show no correlation in young, healthy adults
Authors: Kopanczyk Rafal , Opris Daniel C , Lickliter Jackie , Bridges Edward G , Nazar Andrea M , Bridges Kristie Grove
Published: June 2021

C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) is found at elevated levels in the serum of patients with inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Recent studies have shown that CRP can also be detected in saliva and its use as a non‐invasive biomarker of myocardial infarction has been proposed. However, the relationship between CRP levels in saliva and blood has not been investigated. The objective of this study was to determine if salivary levels of CRP correlate to blood levels in healthy adults. After IRB approval, saliva and blood samples were collected from 69 medical students. All samples were tested for CRP levels using ELISA assays. Salivary CRP concentration ranged from 0.05 to 64.3 ng/mL (median = 1.2 ng/mL). Plasma CRP concentration ranged from 0.14 to 31.1 μg/mL (median = 2.0 μg/mL). Generalized linear modeling was used to investigate the relationship between salivary and plasma CRP levels. None of the models passed lack of fit testing even when variables such as salivary flow rate and time since eating were included. Therefore, a relationship between CRP concentration in saliva and blood could not be established in this group of subjects. This work was funded by a WVSOM intramural grant.
The Arabidopsis Twinkle homologue is targeted to mitochondria and has both DNA primase and DNA helicase activities that control mtDNA copy number
Authors: Cupp John D. , Nielsen Brent L
Published: June 2021

Plant mitochondrial genomes are large, complex, and may replicate by a recombination‐dependent mechanism or by more than one mechanism. We have identified an Arabidopsis nuclear‐encoded gene for a homologue of the bacteriophage T7gp4 protein that has both DNA primase and DNA helicase activities. The plant homologue has high homology with the T7 protein, while the animal homologue (Twinkle) lacks homology over the DNA primase domain and has been shown to have DNA helicase but not primase activity. In animals this protein controls mtDNA replication and genome copy number. We have shown that this protein in Arabidopsis is localized specifically to mitochondria and that it has both DNA primase and DNA helicase activities. Homozygous T‐DNA insertion lines show severely reduced growth rates and premature flowering with significantly lower seed production. Confocal microscopy analysis indicates significant alterations in mitochondrial/nuclear organization in root tips such as a reduction in mitochondrial density. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis shows a reduction in mtDNA levels in the mutant lines. These results suggest that this protein is necessary for mtDNA replication and normal plant development.
The Role of gp‐120‐Induced Up‐Regulation of the α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor in HIV‐Associated Dementia
Authors: Ramos Felix M , Ballester Leomar , Santiago Laura , García Wilfredo , Acevedo Lauren , Ríos Raymond , Mercado Jose , Capó Coral , Lasalde Jose
Published: June 2021

Over 30 million people are infected with HIV worldwide. Approximately 30% of HIV+ patients develop HIV associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), which is characterized by cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction and behavioral changes. HIV does not directly infect neurons and the molecular mechanisms by which infection leads to neurocognitive decline are not understood. Several hypotheses have emerged to explain the development of HAND in HIV+ individuals, including neuroinflammation mediated by microglia and direct neuronal toxicity by soluble HIV proteins. We focused our studies on the HIV protein gp120. HIV‐gp120 interacts with several membrane receptors including CD4, CCR5, CXCR4 and nicotinic receptors (nAChRs). However, the role that nAChRs play in the development of HAND has not been investigated. We studied how gp120 affects the expression and function of α7‐nAChR in neuroblastoma cells (SH‐SY5Y). Electrophysiology, imaging and qRT‐PCR experiments were conducted on cells exposed to gp120. We found an increase in the levels and function of α7‐nAChRs after treatment with gp120. In addition, qRT‐PCR experiments with HAND+ and HAND‐ samples showed that levels of α7‐nAChRs are higher in basal ganglia in a subset of HAND+ samples. Our data suggest that α7‐nAChRs may play an important role in the development of HAND.
Synergistically protective effect of melatonin on exercise‐induced neurological recovery in the spinal cord injured rats
Authors: Park Kanghui , Park Sookyoung , Palaksha KJ , Hong Yonggeun
Published: June 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) may aggravate neuronal injury after spinal cord injury (SCI). We hypothesized that NO produced by inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) accelerates secondary damage to spinal tissue, which may be reversed by a neuroprotectant, melatonin. This study investigated the effects of combination therapy with melatonin (10mg/kg) and exercise (10m/min) on the recovery of SCI caused by contusion. We examined locomotor recovery, iNOS gene expression as well as autophagic, apoptotic signaling, including Beclin‐1, LC3, p53, IKK¥á protein expression, and histological alterations of ventral horn. Melatonin‐treated exercise resulted in a significant increased hindlimb movement (P<.05), decreased level of iNOS mRNA (P<.05), and increased motor neurons in ventral horn than control SCI and exercised SCI, together with no effect of other screened signaling molecules. This study shows that the combination therapy with melatonin and exercise reduces the degree of secondary damage associated with SCI in rats, and supports the possible use of melatonin in combination with exercise to reduce the side effects related to exercise‐induced neural fatigue and impairment. Funding: BioGreen21 Program (Code No. 20070401‐034‐006‐009‐02‐00), Rural Development Administration, Korea.
Chemicals Targeting an HIV‐1 Nef/Host Cell Kinase Complex as Novel Anti‐Retroviral Compounds
Authors: Day Billy , Adepegba Damilola
Published: June 2021

The AIDS epidemic has resulted in the development of many anti‐retroviral drugs to manage this deadly disease. Nef has been identified to be an essential protein in the progression of AIDS. Nef forms a complex with its host cell binding partner, the Src family kinase Hck. Nef activates Hck through a mechanism that involves displacement of the SH3 domain from a negative regulatory interaction with the catalytic domain. Nef, is known to influence signaling molecules, such as protein kinases. These characteristics that Nef acquire enhance the viral replication, as well as survival of infected cells. A high‐throughput screening assay identified two classes of inhibitors of this protein‐protein interaction. One class of inhibitors of HIV activity and Nef:Hck interaction was diphenylfuropyrimidines, the other 2‐arylsulfonamido‐3‐arylaminequinoxalines. Remarkably, these agents block Nef‐dependent HIV replication and show no cytotoxicity. This study shows a new and valid approach toward the development of anti‐HIV agents through synthesis, purification, and characterization of the different derivates of the scaffold identified to inhibit the protein‐protein interaction. These compound(s) could provide the structural scaffold for a new class(es) of anti‐HIV chemotherapeutics. Supported by NIH T34GM008411
Skin Ulcer and Fin Rot Diseases in Summer Flounder From Maryland Coastal Bays: A possible Indicator of Water Quality
Authors: Martin Olivia Janae’ , May Eric B
Published: June 2021

The Maryland Coastal Bays (MCBs) represent a complex set of estuarine bays and rivers on the Delmarva Peninsula that serve as important habitats for a variety of resident and transient species. Because of the importance of the bays as nursery and feeding habitats, considerable concern is given to the pollution of its many tributaries. Responses in fish such as ulcers, sores, fin rot, and gill fraying have been used as indicators of deteriorated environments. In the MCBs, one of the most common species is the summer flounder (Paralicthys dentatus), a demersal fish that spends most of its early life living on the bottom. Given the close contact with sediments, it is thought that this species is a good candidate as an indicator of environmental degradation and/or presence of opportunistic microorganisms. We sampled summer flounder at nine sites in the MCBs in Chincoteague, Newport, Sinepuxent, Isle of Wight, and Assawoman Bays as well as the St. Martins River. During this time we collected 19 summer flounder, of which, only one exhibited lesions. This fish was from the St. Martins River and also exhibited petechiae. Continuing studies will involve the isolation and identification of the microorganism(s) responsible for the observed fish lesion and its potential to pose adverse health effects to fish and humans. Supported by NIH R25GM063775 and NOAA NA060AR4810163
Evaluation of a complementary treatment in experimental oncology – preliminary results
Authors: Verrier Guido F , Cavalcanti Karen Pena , Cabrita Antonio M
Published: June 2021

Complementary medicine techniques (CMT) are a diverse procedures of health care practices and products that fall outside the traditional western medical theory and practice. The use of CMT have increased over the past decades, and more scientific evidence to sustain their use must be achieved.

Our goal with this experiment is to investigate the possible benefic effects of “hands on treatment” in an experimental model of oncology.

Two groups of nine Spargue‐Dawkey female rats, one month old, were submitted to the protocol of breast cancer. One group (I) was maintained with no other treatment for 24 weeks. The other group (II) was submitted to hands on treatment, three times a week, 15 minutes each, during 24 weeks. All the animals that survived were sacrificed after 24 weeks. All the animals were weighted weekly and a hemogram was done for each animal when sacrificed.

In group I only five animals had survived and in group II survived seven animals. The group II animals were more quite and social in response to the researchers. The were no significant differences between the median weight of the groups, nor the hemograms.

Although there were a small number of animals in each group, the results suggest that may be some influence by the treatment, because more animals survived in the treatment group and these animals were more quite. These results also justify a more detailed study of this treatment technique.
The structure of the RMI core complex resembles the RPA interface
Authors: Hoadley Kelly A. , Xu Dongyi , Xue Yutong , Wang Weidong , Keck James L.
Published: June 2021

RecQ DNA helicases are ubiquitously conserved enzymes with critical roles in genome maintenance. BLM, the protein product of the gene mutated in Bloom's syndrome, is one of five human RecQ helicases. BLM functions as part of the “dissolvasome” complex, which includes TopoIIIα (a type IA topoisomerase), and the RMI (for RecQ‐Mediated Instability) subcomplex (RMI1 and RMI2). The dissolvasome separates double Holliday junction DNA without exchange of genetic material. Here we describe the 1.55 Å resolution structure of the RMI core complex, which includes RMI2 and the C‐terminal OB‐fold of RMI1. The overall structure strongly resembles two‐thirds of the trimerization interface of Replication Protein A (RPA). We examined the RMI interface using co‐immunoprecipitations with RMI2 variants and confirmed two key structural interactions. We probed the effects of complex‐destabilizing mutations on sister chromatid exchange (SCE) formation in chicken DT40 cells and discovered that mutations that disrupt the RMI interface cause an increase in SCE formation. We conclude that the RMI interface is crucial to the stability of the BLM dissolvasome. This research was funded by NIH R01‐GM068061.
Insights into the pharmacologic inhibition of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase in cancer: avoiding severe metabolic toxicity
Authors: Mashhedi Haider , Dool Carly Jade , Zakikhani Mahvash , Piura Ettie , David Stephanie , Zhao Yunhua , Carboni Joan M. , Blouin Marie‐Jose , Pollak Michael
Published: June 2021

In view of accumulating evidence that links hyperinsulinemia to aggressive cancer behavior, the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase has been viewed as a potentially important molecular target for certain cancers. To study the effects of attenuation of insulin signaling on the growth of the mouse 4T1 breast cancer model in vivo, we compared the effects of alloxan‐induced insulin deficiency to those of BMS‐536924, an inhibitor of the insulin and IGF‐I receptor kinases. Both interventions reduced AktSer473 phosphorylation in neoplastic tissue and significantly reduced tumor growth. Insulin deficiency led to reduced muscle AktSer473 phosphorylation, while BMS‐536924 led to hyperinsulinemia and increased muscle AktSer473 phosphorylation, a finding which correlated with significantly lower drug accumulation in muscle than in neoplastic tissue. We measured glucose uptake and utilization in muscle to determine if BMS‐536924 abolished insulin‐dependent glucose uptake. Our data indicate that insulin dependent glucose uptake by muscle remained intact. Thus, tissue‐specific distribution of BMS‐536924 may account for antineoplastic activity without severe metabolic toxicity, indicating that pharmacologic targeting of the insulin receptor in neoplastic disease may be practical. This work is supported by the McGill Integrated Cancer Research Training Program (MICRTP).
CTAS: a novel low‐cost capillary‐based cell and tissue acquisition system
Authors: Kudo Lili , Fields Tony , Bragin Anatol , Karsten Stanislav L. , Vi Nancy
Published: June 2021

Heterogeneity in tissue samples and cell cultures is a limiting factor that hinders sound cell‐specific molecular studies of disease and health both for gene expression and proteomic analyses. Tissue microdissection and cell sorting technologies have advanced in the last decade from manual dissection to sophisticated but costly laser capture microdissection (LCM) instruments and high speed fluorescence assisted cell sorting systems (FACS). We have developed a low‐cost user‐friendly microdissection device that offers similar capabilities to LCM and FACS. This instrument is a novel capillary‐based vacuum‐assisted cell and tissue acquisition system (CTAS). CTAS is attached to an inverted microscope, and offers a way to dissect tissues and cell cultures at a cellular resolution. RNA and protein isolated from cells harvested with CTAS are of high quality fit for downstream applications, such as microarrays and Western blots. Further, cells collected using CTAS are viable, and can be used for cell cultures. CTAS is currently a fully functional prototype that has demonstrated its capabilities in the central nervous system samples, i.e. spinal cord and brain. This instrument can be applied for the collection of cells from various tissues, and is able to do so more cost effectively than the existing technology of LCM and FACS.

This work was supported by NIH Grant RR024059‐01 (LCK).
Structural modeling of Gene 32 protein and SSB's roles in DNA replication, recombination and repair
Authors: Rogers Katie , Hobgood Mike , Nance Jimia , Cline Deborah , Browning Stephanie , Eason Mo'rease , Eversburg Amber , Lawson Nikki , Campbell Linda , Wilhelm Dayna , Karpel Richard
Published: June 2021

Students participating in the Students Modeling a Research Topic (SMART) team partnership program involving Lackey High School, University of Maryland Baltimore County and Milwaukee School of Engineering used 3‐D printing technology to create a physical model of T4 bacteriophage gene 32 protein and researched its role in denaturation and renaturation of DNA. Gene 32 protein is a single‐stranded binding protein (SSB) that has three domains: the core domain with an OB fold provides a structural trough for binding single stranded DNA (ssDNA); the B domain (amino acids 1–21) is responsible for cooperatively interacting with the core domains of other SSBs; and the A domain (C‐terminal 48 amino acids) binds to other proteins of the replication machinery and acts as a gate keeper by mimicking DNA thus controlling DNA binding. Gene 32 protein binds weakly to double stranded DNA (dsDNA). It is theorized that a region on the protein surface rich in lysine residues electrostatically interacts with the phosphates in the dsDNA major groove. dsDNA interaction might provide a means by which the protein could rapidly one‐dimensionally diffuse to transient single stranded regions on the DNA, thus facilitating its roles in DNA replication, recombination and repair. Supported by a grant from HHMI.
Lipid‐soluble extract of Red Ginseng inhibits the growth of lung cancer cells through induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest
Authors: Kang Moo Rim , Park Sung Kyu , Kim Hwan Mook , Lee Chang Woo , Kim Dong Chung
Published: June 2021

It is known that red ginseng has a lot of biological activities, including anti‐tumor activity. In this study we investigated the anticancer activity of lipid‐soluble ginseng extract (HRE) prepared by n‐hexane extraction. The inhibitory activity of HRE on the growth of NCI‐H460 human lung cancer cells was evaluated by the sulforhodamine B assay. The effect of HRE on apoptosis and cell cycle was also analyzed. HRE exhibited a potent antiproliferative effect against the NCI‐H460 cells and induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. The percentage of G0/G1 increased from 54.5 to 74.0%, but S phase decreased from 42.1 to 17.2%. HRE effectively reduced the level of cell cycle mediators, such as CDK,2, CDK4, CDK6, cyclin D3 and cyclin E, at the concentration of 100 ug/ml. In addition, HRE also induced apoptosis in these cells, which was accompanied by the activation of caspases, including caspase‐9, caspase‐8 and caspase‐3. The pan‐caspase inhibitor, Z‐VAD‐fmk, partially blocked the cell death induced by HRE. Our results indicate that HRE exerts an anti‐proliferative activity against lung cancer cells by perturbing the cell cycle and activating the caspase pathways.