bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycoplasma Infection Enhances the Immunological Activation and the Warburg Effect of Metastatic Tumor Cells
Authors: Flores Roberto , Shelton Laura , Brown Ashley , Taus Luke , Glover Frank , Seyfried Thomas
Published: June 2021

Mycoplasmas are the smallest, self‐replicating free‐living prokaryotes, and have been associated with carcinogenesis. Mycoplasmas can be detected in a large percentage and in a wide variety of primary human cancers. Some mycoplasma species such as M. fermentans and M. hyorhinis can transform normal murine and human cell lines into tumorigenic cells. Mycoplasma infection can activate oncogenes as well as inactivate tumor suppressor genes suggesting that mycoplasmas can be both carcinogenic and or onco‐modulatory. PCR amplification and sequencing showed that the metastatic murine VM‐M3 cell line (referred to as M3+) was infected with the mycoplasma M.arginini. Ciprofloxacin was used to eradicate M. arginini from M3+ cells (referred to as M3‐ cells). Metabolic markers of macrophage activation (itaconic acid, succinate, citrulline, and nitric oxide) were elevated in the M3+ cells when compared to the M3‐ cells. Respiration (oxygen consumption) was lower and fermentation (lactate production) was higher in the M3+ cells than in the M3‐ cells, indicating a larger Warburg effect in the M3+ cells. Both the M3+ and the M3‐ cells were positive for a Crabtree effect, as glucose suppressed the respiration of both the M3+ and the M3‐ cells. The in‐vitro proliferation rate of M3+ cells was faster than that of M3‐ cells. No significant difference was found, however, between the M3+ and M3‐ cells for subcutaneous tumor growth, as the immunocompetent VM/Dk inbred mouse host was able to eradicate the M. arginini infection from the M3+ cells when grown in vivo. The results suggest that M. arginini can enhance activation and the Warburg Effect of the murine VM‐M3 tumor cells.
Tip60 Overexpression Exacerbates Chemotherapeutic Drug Treatment in Breast, Pancreatic, and Lung Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ravichandran Priyadarshini , Ginsburg Daniel
Published: June 2021

The Tip60 lysine acetyltransferase acetylates histones, p53 tumor suppressor, ATM kinase DNA repair enzyme, and androgen receptor transcription factor. Tip60 plays a vital role in transcription, DNA repair, and apoptosis. There is conflicting evidence that Tip60 may function as both a tumor suppressor and oncogene. We are interested in analyzing Tip60's role in breast, pancreatic, and lung carcinomas, and gauge into Tip60's potential as a therapeutic agent in these cancers. We hypothesize that due to Tip60's role in DNA repair and apoptosis, it serves as a tumor suppressor in these cancers. Therefore, overexpression of Tip60 should decrease proliferation in tumor cells and enhance the effects of chemotherapeutic agents. We have shown Tip60 levels in six different breast, pancreatic and lung cancer cell lines were significantly lower compared to non‐tumorigenic cells. While overexpression itself was found to reduce proliferation in only one cell line, Tip60 overexpression in addition to paclitaxel treatment, decreased proliferation 30‐60% more than administration of paclitaxel alone amongst the cancer cell lines. Moreover, we identified localization of Tip60 to be either in the cytoplasm or nucleus, and varied amongst the cell lines studied. Interestingly down‐regulation in cancer cells was associated with localization in the cytoplasm, thus, we cloned a nuclear localization sequence (NLS) into the Tip60 overexpression plasmid, and observed further decreases in proliferation than initially observed with the original plasmid. These results suggest that Tip60 serves as a tumor suppressor in breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers, consistent with previous data, and that Tip60 may also be useful as part of a cancer therapy in combination with currently used drugs.
Modulation of Ovarian Cancer Cell Metabolism via Pyruvate Kinase M2 (PKM2) and Glucose Deprivation
Authors: Justiniano Jeanine , Garrity Ryan , Gonzalez Alfredo , Wan Yinsheng
Published: June 2021

Ovarian cancer is one of the most aggressive types of cancer in women. While the molecular mechanisms of ovarian cancer have been extensively studied, treatments for ovarian cancer are still limited. Understanding the metabolism of ovarian cancer cells has been of great interest to many scientists. Cancer cells express a higher consumption rate of glucose which results in accumulation of lactate even in an oxygenized environment. This alteration in metabolism is known as the Warburg effect and is necessary for the growth and survival of cancer cells. Pyruvate kinase M2 or PKM2 has been shown to be a regulator enzyme responsible for the conversion of PEP to pyruvate. Recent studies have demonstrated that PKM2 is over‐expressed in tumor cells. However, its functions are yet to be elucidated. In this project, we investigated the effects of glucose deprivation on ovarian cancer cells (CaOV3 cell line). The results showed that reduction of glucose supply in culture medium affects cells morphologically and metabolically. MTT assay data showed that glucose alters cellular proliferation in a dose dependent manner. Lower glucose supply results in alkalinization of culture medium. Seahorse data indicated that glucose deprivation reduces oxygen consumption rate of ovarian cancer cells. Western blot analysis and confocal microscopy demonstrated that PKM2 expression is altered in the cytoplasm in response to glucose deprivation. PKM2 levels decrease 30 mins post 1 mM glucose treatment, reaches to the lowest at 1 hr, recovering within 2 hrs. Collectively, our data suggest that PKM2 may be a molecular target for ovarian cancer treatment and glucose deprivation may be a potential approach for modulation of PKM2.
Increase on catabolic efflux by resveratrol in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is nullified in snf1Δ strain
Authors: Madrigal‐Perez L A. , Martinez‐Ortiz C , Carrillo‐Garmendia A , Zamudio‐Bolaños J M. , Soto‐Villagomez M A. , Padilla‐Perez A K , Cornelio‐Martinez M I. , Gonzalez‐Hernandez J C. , Cortes‐Rojo C , Ramos‐Gomez M.
Published: June 2021

Several studies associate resveratrol (RES) as mimetic of dietary restriction (DR), since both activate catabolic efflux (CE) by AMP protein kinase (AMPK), but not evidence exist about the activation of Snf1p (ortholog of AMPK) by RES in S. cerevisiae. Nevertheless, RES may elicit similar effects than those of DR in yeast considering that both increase replicative lifespan (RLS), and when used together a synergic patter in RLS is not observed. To further test this hypothesis, we have studied if RES increases glucose consumption (GC), respiration and growth on high‐glucose (HG), as part of the beneficial‐related mechanisms of RES seen in mammals under high‐carbohydrate and high‐fat diets. Furthermore, chronologic lifespan (CLS) at HG was tested to corroborate if RES extends CLS like DR. All the studies were performed in S. cerevisiae BY4742 (WT) and snf1Δ strain and no extension on CLS was observed with RES. Although RES‐treated cells showed an increase on growth and GC, this phenotype was not observed in snf1Δ. Moreover, WT‐RES treated cells displayed inhibition of respiration on state 4 when glucose was used as carbon source. These data correlate with observations on higher eukaryotes and suggest that RES promotes an increment on CE through Snf1p. Unexpectedly, RES inhibited respiration in WT, but this patter could be explained by the increase on NADH/NAD+ ratio enhanced by glycolysis flux which inhibits respiration at oxygened conditions, similar phenotype as the Crabtree effect. This work was funded by grant from ITSCH (3308.100310).
Alteration of p‐PKM2 by UV radiation and H2O2 in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Garrity Ryan , Gonzalez Alfredo , Justiniano Jeanine , Wan Yinsheng
Published: June 2021

UV radiation and oxidative stress have been shown to be related to skin aging and skin cancer. Our previous studies have demonstrated that UV radiation induces generation of reactive oxygen species that leads to MAP kinase activation and MMP expression with a result of collagen reduction in cultured human skin keratinocytes in vitro and in human skin in vivo. We have also found that UV radiation and oxidative stress induces dehydration in human skin cells. Existing data have indicated that oxidative stress may alter cellular metabolism. We hypothesized that UV radiation and oxidative stress may also change metabolism in skin cells. Here we examined the effects of UV radiation and hydrogen peroxide on the metabolism of cultured human skin keratinocytes (HaCat cells). Western blot analysis showed that UV radiation inactivates PKM2 in keratinocytes in a time dependent manner. Seahorse data showed that UV radiation and H2O2 treatments decrease oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in HaCat cells. mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin increases oxygen consumption in both untreated and H2O2 treated cells. However, ERK inhibitor U0126 increases OCR in untreated cells, but decreases in H2O2‐treated cells. PKM2 activator DASA increases OCR in untreated cells but decreases OCR in H2O2 treated cells. Given that H2O2 is a recognized inhibitor of PKM2, we conclude that inhibition of PKM2 by UV radiation and oxidative stress may directly affect oxygen consumption and glycolysis in human skin cells.​
Hepatoma‐Derived Growth Factor (HDGF) Acts in Ovarian Cancer via Distinct Intracellular and Extracellular Mechanisms
Authors: Giri Karuna , Pabelick Christina , Mukherjee Priyabrata , Prakash YS
Published: June 2021

Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer death among US women. Hepatoma‐derived growth factor (HDGF) is a heparin binding, secreted mitogen with prognostic value in multiple cancers. We previously reported that HDGF is overexpressed in ovarian cancer. Surprisingly, the mechanisms by which HDGF acts in any cell type remains to be fully elucidated. We hypothesized that overexpression of HDGF in ovarian cancer cells is functionally relevant and that HDGF confers pro‐survival and proliferative properties, promoting cancer growth. To elucidate intracellular and extracellular signaling mechanisms, we examined the effect of HDGF knockdown via siRNA, overexpression of HDGF and stimulation by full‐length recombinant protein. Immunofluorescence image analysis showed nuclear localization of HDGF in OV202 cell line. Additionally, HDGF was minimally secreted but passively released in greater amounts by necrotic cells. Extracellular HDGF stimulated phosphorylation of ERK and p38. In contrast, modulating intracellular HDGF did not affect MAPK pathways. In fact, intracellular HDGF functioned in a distinct manner by regulating cellular metabolism. This suggests that HDGF acts in ovarian cancer cells via two distinct mechanisms, both of which could be exploited for ovarian cancer therapy.

Supported by the Mayo Graduate School (Giri) and the Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic (Prakash).
Effect of Anti‐Cancer Reagents on the Invasiveness of Cancer Cells
Authors: PARMAR NITIKA , Garimidi Pratyusha , Mytych Joshua , Kennedy Shane , Carter Katlynn
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to determine the impact of five proposed anti‐cancer agents (Berberine chloride, Azathioprine, Gossypol, Miltefosine, and Etoposide) on three female cancer cell lines: MES‐SA (uterine), C33A (cervical), and SKBR (breast). We hypothesized that treatment with these agents would decrease invasiveness based on our previous findings of their growth inhibitory properties. This was tested using the CultreCoat® 96 Well Medium BME Cell Invasion Assay. The cell lines were grown to 80‐90% confluency, then treated with the proposed anti‐cancer agents at 2µM for 24 hours. Cells were harvested and subsequently seeded in the invasion chamber for 24 hours. Cell migration, reflecting invasiveness, was monitored via a fluorimetric assay and quantified. Untreated cells served as controls. Invasiveness was influenced by the type of agent and cell line. Treatment with Gossypol increased invasiveness in all cell lines, the highest by 235% in MES‐SA. Azathioprine increased invasiveness in SKBR, and even more in C33A (141%). Berberine chloride reduced the invasiveness of SKBR by 33%, and C33A by 137%. The agent that showed the best reduction in invasiveness was Etoposide, with the biggest, 182% in C33A cells. Agents that showed an increase in invasiveness could have their potential as anti‐cancer therapy greatly reduced. Agents reducing invasiveness (particularly, Etoposide and Berberine Chloride) should be considered for further study, especially in C33A, the cell line most respondent to these agents. A dose‐dependent impact on invasiveness is currently being studied on a variety of cancer cells. Support for this project was provided by CSU Channel Island's Project Vista.
Effect of GnRH on Thimet Oligopeptidase within Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Ramirez Yesenia , Wolfson Adele
Published: June 2021

As prostate cancer cells lose sensitivity towards androgens, the effect of gonadotropic releasing hormone (GnRH), becomes more important as a growth factor responsible for cell proliferation. The enzyme thimet oligopeptidase (TOP) has the potential to break down and thus attenuate the effects of GnRH and other peptide growth factors. Because of its ability to inactivate or modify the activity of GnRH, TOP plays an important regulatory role in steroid hormone production, either locally or by way of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis, and may have implications for treatment of prostate cancer. In order to analyze the effects of TOP in the cell proliferation process, androgen‐sensitive prostate cancer cells were treated with dihydrotestosterone or GnRH. TOP activity was measured with a quenched fluorescence assay and TOP localization was determined by confocal fluorescence imaging. Quantification of TOP levels were measured via immunoblot. Results demonstrate an increase in TOP levels and activity after treatment with GnRH. These results tentatively suggest that GnRH exerts negative feedback on its own activity.
Upregulation of Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor in Astrocytes and Oligodendrocytes by Cinnamon Metabolite Sodium Benzoate: Implications for Demyelinating Disorders
Authors: Modi Khushbu , Pahan Kalipada
Published: June 2021

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a promyelinatingtrophic factor that protects cells from demyelination. Mechanisms by which CNTF level could be enriched in the CNS are poorly understood. This study underlines the importance of cinnamon metabolite sodium benzoate (NaB) in increasing the level of CNTF in astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. NaB alone upregulated the expression of CNTF in primary mouse astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. Accordingly, oral administration of NaB and cinnamon increased the levels of CNTF in astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in vivo in the CNS of mice. While investigating mechanisms, we found that NaB induced the activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and that H‐89, an inhibitor of PKA, hindered NaB‐induced expression of CNTF. Moreover, NaB treatment increased the phosphorylation of cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB) and CREB siRNA abrogated NaB‐induced expression of CNTF. Furthermore, the Cntf promoter harbors one consensus cAMP‐response element and NaB treatment induces the recruitment of CREB to the Cntf promoter. These results highlight a novel role of NaB in myelination in which NaB upregulates CNTF via PKA‐CREB pathway.
Supervillin Binds the Rac/Rho‐GEF Trio and Increases Trio‐mediated Rac1 Activation
Authors: Son Kyonghee , Smith Tara , Luna Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

We investigated cross‐talk between the membrane‐associated, myosin II‐regulatory protein supervillin and the actin‐regulatory small GTPases Rac1, RhoA, and Cdc42. Supervillin knockdown reduced Rac1‐GTP loading, but not the GTP loading of RhoA or Cdc42, in HeLas cells with normal levels of the Rac1‐activating protein Trio. No reduction in Rac1‐GTP loading was observed when supervillin levels were reduced in Trio‐depleted cells. Conversely, overexpression of supervillin isoform 1 (SV1) or, especially, isoform 4 (SV4) increased Rac1 activation. Inhibition of the Trio‐mediated Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange (GEF) activity with ITX3 partially blocked the SV4‐mediated increase in Rac1‐GTP. Both SV4 and SV1 co‐localized with Trio at or near the plasma membrane in ruffles and cell surface projections. Two sequences within supervillin bound directly to Trio spectrin repeats 4‐7: SV1‐171, which contains N‐terminal residues found in both SV1 and SV4 and the SV4‐specific differentially spliced coding exons 3, 4, and 5 within SV4 (SV4‐E345; SV4 amino acids 276 – 669). In addition, SV4‐E345 interacted with the homologous sequence in rat kalirin (repeats 4‐7, amino acids 531 ‐ 1101). Overexpressed SV1‐174 and SV4‐E345 affected Rac1‐GTP loading, but only in cells with endogenous levels of Trio. Trio residues 771 – 1057, which contain both supervillin‐interaction sites, exerted a dominant‐negative effect on cell spreading. Supervillin and Trio knockdowns, separately or together, inhibited cell spreading, suggesting that supervillin regulates the Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange activity of Trio, and potentially also kalirin, during cell spreading and lamellipodia extension.
Vitamin D supplementation as adjunct to anti‐tuberculosis drugs in Mongolian TB patients
Authors: Davaasambuu Ganmaa , Bromage Sabri , Erkhembayar Baasansuren , Jaisandavga Erdenetseg , Baatar Munkhzul
Published: June 2021

Objective

to test whether vitamin D supplementation in vivo may be a useful adjunct to anti‐TB drugs and could lead to the development of shorter drug regimens.

Methods: Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial among TB patients in Mongolia. The baseline clinical assessment consisted of chest radiography, measurement of height, weight, mid‐upper arm circumference, and triceps, biceps and subscapular skinfolds and collection of a sputum, a urine, and a blood samples.

Results: The results were available for the subsample of the patients and were analyzed by cavity status at baseline. Fewer of the participants were female (31%) compared to the males (69%). At baseline, 46 patients had a cavity (Cav +) and 94 did not have a cavity (Cav ‐) on chest radiograph. The participants in the Cav (‐) and Cav (+) groups were similar in age (mean 34.9 + 11.9 sd cm vs. 34.9 + 15.4 sd cm). Sputum samples are collected and cultured every two weeks. For each subject, the date of conversion from positive to negative was determined. Since un‐blinding has not occurred, we are presenting here pooled time to sputum culture conversion.

Conclusions

Mean serum concentration of albumin at baseline was 34.7 + 60.5 g/L in the Cav (+) compared to 37.2+4.9 g/L in the Cav (‐) group (p<0.05). Mean concentrations of C Reactive Protein (CRP) and neutrophils were significantly higher in the Cav (+) group compared to the Cav (‐) group.
Effects of zinc and multivitamin supplementation on hematologic status during infancy
Authors: Carter R Colin , Kupka Roland , Manji Karim , McDonald Christine , Aboud Said , Gosselin Kerri , Kisenge Rodrick , Liu Enju , Fawzi Wafaie , Duggan Christopher
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

To determine the separate effects of zinc and multivitamin supplementation on infant hematologic status.

METHODS

In a double‐blind RCT, infants born to HIV‐negative women (n=2400) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania were randomized to daily oral supplementation with zinc (Zn), multivitamins (MV), Zn and MV, or placebo at age 6 wk. Hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and red cell indices were measured at baseline and ages 6, 12, and 18 mo. A subset of infants (n = 589) was examined for iron deficiency at 6 mo, defined as ferritin < 12 μg/L or, where α‐glycoprotein 蠅 1.0 g/L, serum transferrin receptor > 8.3 mg/L.

RESULTS

Infants treated with MV had higher mean Hb than those given placebo or Zn alone at 18 mo (9.9 vs. 9.6 g/dL, p = .0009). Infants treated with Zn had RR of 1.71 (95% CI 1.01 – 2.89) for iron deficiency at 6 mo, while those treated with MV had RR 0.52 (95% CI 0.30 – 0.90). In Cox models, MV were associated with a 28% reduction in risk of severe anemia (HR = 0.72 [95%CI 0.56 – 0.94]) and a 26% reduction in risk of severe microcytic anemia (HR = 0.74 [95% CI 0.56 – 0.96]) through age 18 mo. No effects of Zn on risk of anemia were seen.

CONCLUSIONS

MV were associated with reduced risk of both iron deficiency and severe microcytic anemia, while Zn was associated with increased risk of iron deficiency but no longer term increase in risk of anemia.

Funding

NICHD (R01 HD048969; K24HD058795); NIAAA (K23 AA020516); Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (OPP1066203)
Defining a vitamin A deficiency cut‐off for retinol binding protein in Nepal children 6‐23 mo of age
Authors: Whitehead Ralph , Perrine Cria , Mebrahtu Saba , Dahal Pradiumna , Subedi Giri Raj , Jefferds Maria Elena
Published: June 2021

WHO defines vitamin A deficiency (VAD) as serum retinol <0.70 µmol/L. A standard cut‐off to categorize VAD using retinol binding protein (RBP) is not defined, thus, investigators often apply the retinol cut‐off to RBP. A population‐based survey in two Nepal districts assessed RBP among 2347 children 6–23 mo, and retinol among a randomly selected sub‐sample of 175 children. We examined the retinol‐RBP relationship among the sub‐sample to determine the appropriate RBP cut‐off for VAD in this population. Mean retinol and RBP concentrations were 0.82 µmol/L and 0.99 µmol/L, respectively. Using linear regression (Retinol = 0.8321*RBP – 0.0125 µmol/L; R2=0.45), a retinol cut‐off of 0.70 µmol/L corresponded to an RBP cut‐off 0.84 µmol/L. Using this calculated RBP cut‐off, the prevalence of VAD among the 2347 children was 27%. If the cut‐off <0.70 µmol/L had been used, the prevalence of VAD would have been underestimated, with a prevalence of 10%. Until a global cut‐off for RBP is established, surveys assessing RBP should measure retinol in a subsample of participants so a population‐specific cut‐off for RBP can be determined.
Sociocultural factors affecting sun seeking behavior for infants living in rural or urban communities in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Larson Riley , Girma Meron , Stoecker Barbara
Published: June 2021

Ethiopians depend on sunlight for vitamin D synthesis due to limited dietary sources. This qualitative study investigated sociocultural factors affecting sun exposure for infants of women from three categories: initial pregnancies, mothers of infants <1 y, and grandmothers. Eighteen focus groups with ≅10 participants each were held in three urban and three rural communities. In‐depth interviews were conducted with local health extension workers (HEWs). Reports from grandmothers indicated that awareness of benefits of sun exposure for infants has increased in the last generation. Mothers currently stay indoors after delivery for ≅45 days in rural and ≅15 days in urban areas. Women stated that 15‐30 minutes of morning sunlight, never afternoon sun, was best for infant health. Most reported rubbing their infants with oil or butter before sunlight exposure. Barriers mentioned were skin irritation, eye problems, catching cold from drafts, and fear of the evil eye. Only 2 of 82 rural and 26 of 88 urban women freely associated sunlight with vitamin D. HEWs provided health information for 96% of rural and 88% of urban women. Variable understanding of the importance of sun exposure and of sources of vitamin D indicated disparities in knowledge transfer. Our data support additional training of both rural and urban HEWs and mothers regarding benefits of sun exposure for infants and children. (Supported by Don & Kathy Humphreys, Wentz and Miller Grants)
Behavioral and Predictive Validation of a Self‐Assessment of Parental Feeding Style in Low‐Income Parents of Young Children
Authors: Ontai Lenna , Sutter Carolyn , Shilts Mical , Townsend Marilyn
Published: June 2021

To improve the capacity of researchers and practitioners to work toward integrating parenting styles into their work on child obesity, valid assessment tools aimed at measuring these dimensions of parenting are needed. Behavioral and predictive validation of My Child at Mealtime (MCMT), a visually enhanced self‐assessment tool designed to measure parent feeding style in low‐income parents of young children. Parents (n=103) from Head Start and WIC provided data about themselves and their young children. Longitudinal data collection included the parent self‐administered MCMT and child height and weight for BMI percentile, a continuous variable. MCMT is scored for child and parent centered feeding (CCF, PCF). A subsample of 60 parents and children were videotaped during a family mealtime at the start of the study. Coded parent behaviors were grouped based on MCMT scoring to create “parent focused feeding” (PFF) and “child focused feeding (CFF) scores. Significant correlations were found between PFF and MCMT CCF (r = .36, p < .01) and PCF (r = .22, p < .10). Assessment of predictive validity (n=48) found that MCMT PCF was significantly associated with BMI percentile two years later (r = ‐.32, p<.05). MCMT is a valid parent self‐assessment tool to measure parent‐centered feeding behaviors in low‐income parents of young children. Further analyses will assess the validity of MCMT in assessing child‐centered feeding behaviors.

Supported by National Research Initiative #2009‐55215‐05019 & Agriculture and food Research Initiative #2010‐85215‐20658 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Human Nutrition and Obesity 93330.
Anxiety and self‐perception variables and its association with obesity
Authors: Perez‐Lizaur Ana , Moreno‐Landa Luz , Haua‐Navarro Karime , Escalante‐Izeta Ericka
Published: June 2021

Child obesity has become an increasing problem with particular importance in some populations considering its high prevalence and the cost of its attention. According with the most recent Nutrition and Health Survey in Mexico, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is 34.4% in children from 5 to 11 years of ave. In order to improve the prophylactic and therapeutic interventions it is very important to identify the risk factors for the development of this condition. The aim of the present study was to explore the association between anxiety and self‐perception variables and the presence of overweight‐obesity in children ages 8 through12 ;the sample included children from two public elementary schools. The following statements were significantly associated with the presence of obesity: “I am always kind” p=0.09; OR:1,57 (1.09‐2.27); “I always behave well p=0.07 0R:1.54 (1.10‐2.14); “I am always a good person” p=0.030 OR=1.4 (1.004‐1.92); “I wouldn't like to have a greater weight” p=0.000 OR= 0.448 (0.316‐0.636); “I am satisfied with my current weight” p=0.000 OR=0.447 (0.327‐0.627) and “ I would like to weigh less” p=0.000 OR= 3.87 (2.72‐5.51). These results may indicate psychological variables that should be considered when dealing with children with these conditions in order to improve health intervention outcomes.
Do Low‐income Mothers and Fathers of Preschool Children Share Similar Concerns and Perception About Their Child's Body Weight?
Authors: Vollmer Rachel , Adamsons Kari , Foster Jaime , Mobley Amy
Published: June 2021

The aims of this pilot study were to determine if both mothers' and fathers'1) concern for child's future weight, 2) child weight perception, and 3) concern for child's eating too much are related to actual child's weight. Low‐income father‐mother dyads (n=76) were recruited to participate in an individual interview to assess concern for their child's future weight, perception of their child's current weight, and concern about their child eating too much (Child Feeding Questionnaire). Height and weight for each father, mother, and child were measured and Body Mass Index (BMI) or BMI z‐score were calculated. Linear regression was used to test each of the study aims, with parent education level, race, ethnicity, and BMI as covariates. This study found that mother (β= .33, p<0.001) and father (β= .31, p= 0.001) concern for child's future weight, mother (β= 1.21, p= 0.002) and father (β= .1.29, p<0.001) perception of child's current weight, and mother (β= .30, p= 0.007) and father concern (β= .30, p= 0.014) for child's eating too much were all positively related to child's BMI z‐score. These data suggest that low‐income mothers and fathers may have similar concerns about their child's weight, and thus, reinforce the need to consider the role of fathers in obesity prevention efforts.
WAVE Pilot Study: Feasibility of Recruiting, Enrolling, Assessing, and Retaining High School Soccer Players Using Soccer Coaches in a 2‐Year Integrative Obesity Prevention Research Study
Authors: Wong Siew Sun , Meng Yu , Manore Melinda , Pilolla Kari , Johnson Tonya , Curiel Cristian , Dursch Gretchen
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To evaluate participant recruitment, enrollment, assessment, and retention in a 2‐year intervention designed to prevent excess weight gain among high school (HS) soccer players ages 14‐19.

Method:

Five soccer teams in 2 school districts were recruited through soccer coaches. Prior to enrollment, parents, coaches and youth all received a printed information packet. Participants were then enrolled into an intervention/control group; non‐randomized by stratified by HS and soccer teams. At baseline, youth and parent's demographics were collected. Youth also had height, weight, and body composition measured and completed questionnaires related to sport nutrition knowledge, eating behavior, bowel health, physical activity, and sleep.

Result:

Overall 44% (n=54) of available athletes were enrolled (intervention: 16F, 11M; control: 21F, 6M). We identified the following approaches to help us to be successful in future intervention: 1) Engage coaches early in the process; 2) have coaches sign an ‘agreement' statement regarding their role and deliverables including: attend all sessions, help to collect forms/documents, and etc.; 3) engage school districts; and 4) use computers/tablets for data collection through Qualtrics instead of paper/pencil forms.

Conclusion

Based on this approach, soccer coaches, athletic directors, and parent coordinators were pivotal to the success of a longer‐term obesity prevention intervention.

Sponsor: NIFA AFRI Award No. 2013‐67001‐20418
A Behavior Change Model to Improve Vegetable and Fruit Intake Among Low‐income Pregnant Latinas
Authors: Hromi‐Fiedler Amber , Chapman Donna , Segura‐Pérez Sofia , Damio Grace , Clark Pamela , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: June 2021

The primary objective of these analyses was to develop a behavioral change model to improve vegetable and fruit (V&F) intake among pregnant Latinas. Forty‐five in‐depth interviews were conducted with pregnant Latinas living within Hartford. Analyses were conducted to identify and reach convergence on emerging domains and themes. Preliminary results identified 8 domains (Support, Health Outcome Expectancies, V&F access, V&F preferences, V&F knowledge, Behavioral Factors, and Health Status) and one main outcome, increased V&F intake. Each domain had an average of 3 main themes. Support was the primary domain influencing V&F intake through two indirect pathways: V&F knowledge and V&F access. V&F knowledge influenced both V&F preferences and behavioral factors, ultimately affecting V&F intake, while V&F access directly influenced V&F intake. Health outcome expectancies influenced both V&F preferences and behavioral factors, thus affecting V&F intake. Health status linked indirectly to V&F intake by influencing behavioral factors. The key predictor of the support domain was found to be family structure. Preliminary findings strongly suggest family structure is the key predictive factor influencing V&F indirectly through the support pathway. Strategies focused on strengthening family support are necessary for improving V&F intake among low‐income pregnant Latinas. (Funded by NIH/NINR)
Pre‐exercise casein hydrolysate ingestion activates AMP‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway in slow muscle fibers but not in fast fibers
Authors: Matsunaga Yutaka , Tamura Yuki , Minagawa Hidehiro , Nakamura Hirohiko , Saito Noriko , Takeda Yasuhiro , Hatta Hideo
Published: June 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to clarify the effect of casein hydrolysate ingestion on intracellular signal transduction pathway at rest or after exercise in skeletal muscle.

Methods

Eight weeks old male ICR mice were used and ingested either water or casein hydrolysate (0.2 mg/g BW) in this experiment. [Experiment 1: at rest] Mice were randomly divided into control group (CON) and casein hydrolysate ingestion group (CH). After ingestion, blood samples were collected from tail vein of mice (0, 15, 30, 45, 60 min). [Experiment 2: exercise] Mice were randomly divided into exercise group (Ex) and casein hydrolysate ingestion exercise group (CH+Ex). Mice were subjected to treadmill running (20 m/min, 60 min) 30 min after ingestion and blood samples were collected from tail vein of mice. Blood branched‐chain amino acid (BCAA) concentrations and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation were measured as intracellular signal transduction pathway.

Results

[Experiment 1] Positive main effects of casein hydrolysate on blood BCAA concentrations were observed (p<0.05). The phosphorylation status of AMPK showed no significant differences between the two groups. [Experiment 2] In plantaris muscle, the phosphorylation status of AMPK showed no significant differences between the two groups as with the case at rest. In contrast, in soleus muscle, the phosphorylation status of AMPK in CH+Ex group was significantly higher than that in Ex (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Pre‐exercise casein hydrolysate ingestion activates AMP‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway in slow muscle fibers but not in fast fibers.
Effects of Dark Chocolate on Exercise Capacity in Sedentary Older Subjects: Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Villarreal Francisco , Ramirez‐Sanchez Israel , Moreno‐Ulloa Aldo , Roman Luis , Ceballos Guillermo , Patel Minal , Higginbotham Erin , Taub Pam
Published: June 2021

We previously shown in patients with heart failure and type II diabetes that treatment with dark chocolate (DC) improves mitochondrial structure, indicators of mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative stress in skeletal muscle (SkM). For this study, 17 sedentary subjects (mean age 50 years old) were randomized to placebo (n=8) or DC groups (n=9). In a double blind manner, subjects consumed either 2 squares of Hersheys' Extra Dark chocolate or placebo (20 g) for 3 months. Subjects underwent bicycle ergometry to assess VO2 max and power, lipid profile and SkM biopsy to investigate underlying mechanisms. In the DC group, there was a trend for an increase in V02 max (p=0.056 before vs. after) with no changes with placebo. In the DC group post‐treatment there was an increase in maximum exercise related work (watts) achieved (p=0.03). The DC group showed significant increases in HDL levels (p=0.005) and a trend for decreases in triglycerides (p=0.07). SkM biochemistry showed significant increases in protein for metabolic and/or mitochondrial biogenesis control enzymes (PGC1‐alpha, AMPK and LKB1), in their phosphorylation levels and in citrate synthase activity with DC. In conclusion, treatment of sedentary, older subjects with DC improves HDL cholesterol in association with upstream regulators of SkM metabolic control. There were improvements in maximum work and in VO2 max, which may suggest that DC enhances SkM mitochondria efficiency.
Fluid and Carbohydrate Absorption by Small Intestine After Duodenojejunum Perfusion with Hypertonic Sports Drinks in Healthy Young Men
Authors: Tharabenjasin Phuntila , Achalanan Narin , Cherdrungsi Pipat , Lewchalermwongse Buarong , Pholpramool Chumpol
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to test whether hypertonic sports drinks (SD) containing multiple types of carbohydrate (CHO) promote fluid absorption in healthy young men. Eight healthy males (20‐30 y old) were randomly infused with three SD containing multiple types of CHO (6‐13% total CHO, 336 ‐ 678 mOsm/kg) at a rate of 15 ml/min using a triple‐lumen nasojejunal tube. Fluid samples collected from the proximal and distal ports located at approximately 10 and 50 cm from the pyloric sphincter were analyzed for osmolality and concentrations of a non‐absorbable marker PEG, CHO, sodium and potassium. Infusion of SD with 6% CHO (336 mOsm/kg) resulted in net fluid absorption whereas SD with 11‐13% CHO (653‐678 mOsm/kg) induced fluid secretion in the test segment and reductions in luminal fluid osmolality towards isotonicity. Rates of CHO absorption were similar among, and net secretion of Na+ and K+ were observed in, all SD tested. SD having 11‐13% CHO induced a higher rate of electrolyte secretion than those with 6% CHO. Plasma glucose was doubled at 30 min after infusion of all test solutions. Thus, the presence of multiple types of CHO in the hypertonic test beverages could not offset the influence of hypertonicity on fluid absorption. Moreover, rates of CHO absorption seem independent of CHO concentrations in the SD (Gatorade Sports Science Institution, USA)
Differences in Bone Turnover and 25(OH)D Change in Indoor Athletes
Authors: Teager Cassidy , Redzic Maja , Cassity Evan , Thomas D.
Published: June 2021

Differences in bone mineral density and bone turnover have been observed in several athlete types. However, athlete bone change in relation to vitamin D status has not been well characterized, especially in low impact sports such as swimming. The purpose of this study was to determine how vitamin D (25(OH)D) status is associated with bone turnover in collegiate swimmers and divers. Over 6 months, body composition (DXA), 25(OH)D, and bone turnover markers [Bone Specific Alkaline Phosphatase (BSAP), and N‐terminal telopeptide (NTx)] were measured (13 female, 19 male; age 19.4±1.4 years). Participants were categorized into high, moderate, or low bone turnover groups at each time point. Mean 25(OH)D at baseline was 57±16ng/mL with an average 6 month change of ‐7.1±15ng/mL. At endpoint, mean BSAP and NTx were 33.4±13.6μg/L and 18.5±5μg/L respectively. At midpoint and endpoint, athletes with the highest rate of bone turnover had significantly different patterns of 25(OH)D change (midpoint: ‐16.5ng/mL; endpoint: ‐16.9ng/mL) compared to athletes with minimal turnover (‐2.2ng/mL, ‐3.3ng/mL; n=22, n=23)(p<.05) without significant differences in weight and body fat. Participants who shifted to a higher bone turnover group (n=5) lost more 25(OH)D than those who shifted to a lower turnover group (n=6; p=.002). These data suggest that monitoring vitamin D status may provide insight on bone turnover independent of body composition changes. Future studies should examine multiple markers of bone turnover to further elucidate the effects of vitamin D status on bone health of athletes.

This project was supported by NIH CTSA UL1TR000117.
Relationship between Body Fat and Physical Fitness in Army ROTC Cadets
Authors: Steed Carly , Krull Benjamin , Morgan Amy , Tucker Robin , Ludy Mary‐Jon
Published: June 2021

The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), consisting of timed sit‐ups, push‐ups, and run, is the Army's method for measuring physical performance. The Army uses height and circumference measurements (HCM) to calculate percent body fat (%BF). Study objectives were to: 1) determine relationships between APFT results and %BF and 2) compare accuracy of body fat assessment methods: air‐displacement plethysmography (ADP), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and body mass index (BMI). Subjects were Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets (n=11M, 2F, 21.6±3.5y) from a Midwestern university. At a single visit, %BF was assessed using HCM, BIA, ADP, and BMI. The ROTC director provided APFT results. HCM, ADP, and BIA were strongly correlated (r>0.7, p<0.01). Composite APFT score was not correlated with any body fat assessment method. Push‐up number was negatively correlated with %BF by HCM, ADP, and BIA (r>‐0.7, p=0.001). Run time was positively correlated with %BF by HCM, ADP, and BIA (r>0.6, p<0.05). No correlations were found between %BF by HCM, ADP, or BIA and sit‐up number. BMI was not correlated with any variable. For this young, active population very strong correlations between HCM, ADP, and BIA suggest that HCM is a reasonable tool to estimate %BF of ROTC cadets. As %BF increases, number of push‐ups performed decreases and run time increases. However, the limited sample size may have impeded detection of other relationships between %BF and physical fitness, and did not allow for examination of sex differences.
Comparison of Select Nutrients in the Nutrition Facts Panel to Analytical Values in Greek Yogurt
Authors: Somanchi Meena , Simpson Taylor , Exler Jacob , Pehrsson Pamela
Published: June 2021

Yogurt has been consumed for approximately 7,000 years and is still a popular consumer commodity. Greek yogurt has seen a dramatic increase in consumption in recent years. The Nutrient Data Laboratory uses the National Food and Nutrient Analysis Program (NFNAP) and the label data on cartons or websites for populating the nutritive value of foods in the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. The objective of this study was to observe if there were differences in select nutrients between the Nutrition Facts Panel (NFP) and analytical data. Through the NFNAP program, 11 Greek yogurt samples were analyzed chemically by standard AOAC methods for protein, total lipid, calcium, sodium, and cholesterol and compared to their corresponding NFP. As per the FDA 80/120 rule for class 2 nutrients, percent differences between the two methods were calculated. The percent differences were used to calculate the frequency of differences in two categories: 蠄80% than label for protein and calcium; 蠅120% than label for total fat, cholesterol and sodium. Results showed that all types of Greek yogurt were 蠄80% for protein, and 10 types were 80% for calcium. For total lipid and sodium, none of the types were 蠅120%. However, cholesterol in two types was 蠅120%. While the majority of the labels provide accurate nutritive value information, some caveats exist. Knowledge about these limitations can provide dietitians, health professionals and consumers a more pragmatic perspective.
Fermented Dairy Products Consumption and Impact on Nutrients Intake and Nutritional Status by Anthropometric Data in Russian Adults: RLMS‐HSE
Authors: Martinchik Arsenii , Baturin Alexander , Keshabyants Evelina , Mihaylov Nikolay , Picard‐Deland Éliane , Marette André
Published: June 2021

We analyzed the consumption of dairy products and association with the nutritional status of adults based on “Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey, RLMS‐HSE” 1994‐2012. Dietary intake (24h recall) and anthropometric data were collected by trained interviewers in >135,000 subjects during observational period. Per capita consumption (PCC) of drinking milk (including milk from prepared meals like porridges, milk soups, etc.) was varying from year to year but did not change critically during the period. PCC of fermented dairies increased by 3 times, while curd/curd products and hard cheeses increased by 2 times and 1.4 time, respectively. Among fermented dairies, kefir increased from 10.9 to 25.6 g/day and yogurt increased from 0.9g to 8.6 g/day. Yogurt consumption decreased with age in adults of both genders with the minimum values in older adults (蠅 60 yo). Higher kefir consumption, on the contrary, was observed in this latter population. In general, yogurt, kefir or the sum of fermented dairies was associated with higher intake of calcium, vitamin B2 and protein. Anthropometric data showed that adult yogurt consumers had lower mean values of BMI (T‐test P<0,001) and lower prevalence of overweight/obesity (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.68‐0.85, P<0,001) compared to non‐consumers. This was not observed in the group of kefir consumers.

Our study showed that fermented dairies consumption is associated with higher nutrients intake. Results further suggested that yogurt consumption is associated with lower prevalence of overweight/obesity among adults.
The role of food in low‐level arsenic exposure among children from Montevideo, Uruguay
Authors: Kordas Katarzyna , Peregalli Fabiana , Queirolo Elena , Manay Nelly , Vahter Marie
Published: June 2021

Children´s exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a concern because of its effects on growth and development. Food maybe a source of arsenic exposure. We investigated the contribution of diet to iAs exposure and arsenic methylation in 6‐8 y old children (57.3% boys). First‐morning urine samples were analyzed for iAs, MMA, and DMA by HPLC with hydride generation and ICP‐MS. Caregivers provided two 24‐hr recalls of children's diets. Principal component analysis identified 6 dietary patterns: 1) high intake of processed meats and fats, 2) fruits/vegetables (FV) and white meats, 3) yogurt, 4) pasta and sauces, 5) grains, sweets and chips, and 6) fruit. Specific‐gravity adjusted total urinary arsenic concentration (U‐As) and metabolite fractions (%MMA, %DMA and %iAs) were modeled as dependent variables with dietary components as predictors, adjusted for sex, BMI, crowding and SES. 319 children had both urine samples and diet recalls. U‐As was low (median, range: 9.9, 2.8‐48.1 µg/L). Children scoring high on the pasta/sauces pattern had higher U‐As (β±SE: 9.0±2.4 p<0.01). Children consuming more FV and white meat had lower %iAs (‐0.8±0.2 p<0.01) and %MMA (‐0.3±0.1 p<0.1) but higher %DMA (1.1±0.3 p<0.01). Higher consumption of grains/sweets/chips was linked to lower %iAs (0.8±0.3 p<0.01) and higher %DMA (0.6±0.3 p<0.05). Food consumption patterns may contribute to inorganic As exposure in children and affect their ability to methylate iAs.
Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Associated with Dietary Patterns During Pregnancy May Not Be Mediated by Inflammation
Authors: Shin Dayeon , Song Won
Published: June 2021

Maternal dietary patterns before and during pregnancy play roles in developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which prevalence has been steadily rising since 1980s. We aimed to identify dietary patterns that are associated with GDM risks and if the association is through inflammation in US pregnant women. From the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) responses of 205 pregnant women (15‐43 y) included in NHANES 2003‐2006, a total of 216 food items were aggregated into 36 food groups based on MyPyramid and Food Patterns Equivalents Database. Three dietary patterns were identified by reduced rank regression (RRR) specifying GDM‐related nutrients as responses. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% CIs of GDM after control for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, family poverty income ratio, marital status, and without (Model 1) and with log‐transformed C‐reactive protein (CRP) (Model 2). All statistical analyses accounted for the survey design and sample weights. Of 205 pregnant women, 28 (11%) reported GDM. Multivariate AORs (95% CIs) of GDM for comparison between the highest vs. lowest tertile were 0.05 (0.01‐0.40) for Model 1 and 0.05 (0.01‐0.28) for Model 2 for dietary pattern 1 which is characterized by high loading values of dark green vegetables, legumes, and tea. Two other dietary patterns did not show the association with the odds of GDM. The observed association between high intake of dark green vegetables, legumes, and tea during pregnancy and lower odd of GDM are consistent with general health benefits of healthy diets, but warrants further research to understand underlying pathophysiology of GDM associated with dietary behavior.