bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonencapsulated group A Streptococcus associated with human invasive disease (790.1)
Authors: Henningham Anna , Yamaguchi Masaya , Aziz Ramy , Kuipers Kirsten , Dahesh Samira , Yamaguchi Yuka , Seymour Lisa , Ben Zakour Nouri , He Lingjun , Smith Helen , Grimwood Keith , Beatson Scott , Walker Mark , Nizet Victor , Cole Jason
Published: June 2021

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a leading human pathogen, causing 650,000 severe invasive diseases annually with 25% mortality. M1 GAS is the most frequently isolated serotype from invasive disease worldwide; however, a recent occurrence of invasive infections in Australia was attributed to M4 GAS. Here, we use a combined molecular genetics and bioinformatics approach to characterize 17 clinical M4 isolates associated with this invasive disease episode. The M4 isolates were classified into 3 pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis groups, and 2 multilocus sequence types. All isolates lacked hyaluronic acid (HA) capsule, a major antiphagocytic virulence factor, and whole genome sequence analysis of 2 isolates revealed the complete absence of the hasABC capsule biosynthesis operon. Most isolates contained mutations within the covRS two‐component regulator, a hallmark of hyperinvasive GAS. Transformation of a plasmid expressing hasABC into M4 GAS restored capsule production. However, encapsulation neither promoted survival in whole human blood, nor enhanced virulence of wild‐type M4 GAS in a mouse model of systemic infection. Bioinformatic analysis found no hasABC homologs in closely related species, suggesting that this operon was a recent acquisition by ancestral GAS. Together, these data demonstrate that nonencapsulated GAS is capable of causing life‐threatening invasive human infections.

Grant Funding Source: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia; National Institutes of Health
Novel EGFR inhibitors attenuate Ang II‐induced cardiac hypertrophy (794.3)
Authors: Peng Kesong , Pan Yong , Liang Guang
Published: June 2021

Background: Cardiac hypertrophy is a multiple response to physiological and pathological stimuli and an important risk factor for heart failure. The aim of this current study was to examine the effect of EGFR inhibitors on Ang II‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and further identify the underlying cellular/molecular mechanisms in Ang II/EGFR‐involved cardiac hypertrophy pathway. Methods: In vitro cultured rat H9C2 cells were induced hypertrophy by AngII. C57BL/6 mice were given a subcutaneous injection of AngII for two weeks and simultaneously were treated with EGFR inhibitors by daily gavage. Result: Stimulation of either Ang II or EGF significantly activated EGFR pathway and increased EGFR, AKT and ERK phosphorylation, while these increases were dose‐dependently inhibited by EGFR inhibitors. In the meantime, EGFR inhibitors attenuated Ang II‐mediated cardiac hypertrophy. Oral administration with small molecule EGFR inhibitors also decreased the cardiac hypertrophy and dysfuncti on in Ang II‐treated mice. Finally, the results showed that Ang II‐induced EGFR activation was mediated by Src phosphorylation. Conclusion: EGFR plays an important role in Ang II‐induced cardiac hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo, and inhibition of EGFR by specific molecules may be an effective strategy for the treatment of Ang II‐associated cardiac diseases.

Grant Funding Source: China national science foundation
Estrogen mediated regulation of TGFβ pathway signaling in cardiac hypertrophy (795.4)
Authors: Malone Payton , Burton Tyler
Published: June 2021

It is well documented that pre‐menopausal women are protected from heart disease, in part through the effects of estrogen. It has been established that estrogen treatment prevents cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and that estrogen attenuates the prohypertrophy TGFBeta (TGFb) signaling family. However, it has yet to be established whether estrogen is in part mediating its cardioprotective effects via the silencing of TGFb signaling. To address the differential control of the TGFb family member expression in female vs. male mice in the setting of cardiac hypertrophy, we performed transaortic constriction (TAC) to induce hypertrophy. We then analyzed gene and miRNA expression for TGFb family members and potential targeting miRNAs, several of which are known to be induced by estrogen. Next Generation Sequencing was performed to establish miRNA profiles in male and female following the TAC. Differential expression of TGFb targeting miRNAs was confirmed by TaqMan assays. TaqMan also revealed that many of the TGFb family members were preferentially downregulated in female TAC mice as compared to age matched male TAC mice. To define the mechanisms by which estrogen regulates TGFb expression we are performing a series of estrogen receptor activation studies in an in vitro cardiomyocyte hypertrophy model system. Preliminary results show distinct activation of TGFb family members and targeting miRNAs in the traditional nuclear receptors. The direct role for estrogen‐induced miRNAs will be further investigated using antagomirs in vitro. These data taken together will define the underlying estrogen mediated pathways related to TGFb signaling and could lead to new therapeutic targets for heart disease.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by an Institutional Development Award (IDeA) under grant number R15HL108192
Altering beta‐cell phospholipid composition affects diabetic beta‐cell dysfunction (796.15)
Authors: Neuman Joshua , Truchan Nathan , Brill Allison , Brar Harpreet , Kimple Michelle
Published: June 2021

Liberation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or arachidonic acid (AA) from membrane phospholipids is the first step in eicosanoid biosynthesis. Previously, we showed that production of the AA‐derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and expression of one PGE2 receptor, EP3, are both upregulated in type 2 diabetic (T2D) islets and contribute to beta‐cell dysfunction. We also restored diabetic beta‐cell function with an EP3 antagonist, suggesting EP3 as a T2D therapeutic target. In the present study, we explored a different mechanism to improve diabetic beta‐cell function: reducing PGE2 production, thus removing the stimulation of EP3. In addition, we characterized the EPA‐derived eicosanoid, PGE3, for its effect on beta‐cell function, alone or as a competitor of PGE2. First, we optimized an incubation protocol to specifically modulate the AA or EPA composition of isolated islet and insulinoma cell membranes and then treated the cells with agents to induce expression of the PGE2 synthetic enzymes. We observed the expected effects on eicosanoid levels. Dose‐response assays revealed a differential effect of PGE2 and PGE3 on beta‐cell function, which differed in insulinoma cell lines and islets based on their complement of EP receptors. Finally, islets deficient in beta‐cell EP3 were used to confirm specificity of this signaling cascade. Thus, we confirm non‐pharmaceutically targeting PGE2 production as a T2D therapeutic strategy. This work was funded by JDRF, PhRMA Foundation, and UW Madison Department of Medicine.
Autophagy‐mediated growth inhibition of BH3‐mimetic gossypol in malignant glioma cells (796.2)
Authors: Kim Na‐Yeon , Lee Michael
Published: June 2021

In the present study, we evaluated the individual IC50 values of a BH3‐mimetic gossypol for its cell growth inhibitory effects in four glioma cell lines with different BRAF mutational statuses. NMC‐G1, and DBTRG‐05MG cell lines are heterozygous for BRAF‐V600E; T98G, and U‐87MG cell lines are homozygous for wild‐type (WT) BRAF. Gossypol induced similar levels of growth inhibition in all of glioma cell lines. However, gossypol exhibited no significant effect on the phosphorylation of MEK‐ERK in all three cell lines regardless of both BRAF mutation and drug resistance, implying that gossypol activity is independent of MEK‐ERK inhibition. Glioma cells were found to be resistant to the apoptosis mediated by gossypol, which caused only a weak increase in G2/M cells. Rather, gossypol resulted in the progressive emergence of autophagic cells in glioma cells, as determined by GFP‐LC3 puncta/cell counts. Further, autophagy inhibition with 3‐methyladenine partially rescued the growth inhibitory effect of gossypol in DBTRG‐05MG cells, suggesting that the pro‐death autophagic processes may be one of the underlying mechanisms for the sensitization of tumor cells toward gossypol. Collectively, our data suggest that gossypol may contribute to a more effective therapeutic strategy for brain tumor patients that are unable to activate apoptosis.
Combination of ouabain and a specific ROCK inhibitor Y27632 in HeLa cells: implication of therapeutic benefits (797.2)
Authors: Ibisoglu Burcin , Simay Yaprak , Ozdemir Aysun , Ark Mustafa
Published: June 2021

In our previous work we have observed that while the concentrations of ouabain above 100 nM had cytotoxic effects and 30 nM ouabain induced senescence in HeLa cells, ouabain had no noticeable morphological effects on cells at 10 nM and lower concentrations. Therefore in the current work we evaluated the effect of 10nM ouabain on the migration of HeLa cells and the possible involvement of ROCK in this process. The xCELLigence RTCA DP system with CIM‐plates was performed to detect the effect of drugs on cell migration. HeLa cells were exposed to 10 µM Y27632 for 30 min and 0.5 µg/ml CT04 (Rho A inhibitor) for 2h. After preincubation cells were treated with 10 nM ouabain. Cell index was monitored every 15 min for up to 48 h. Our results showed that while 10 nM ouabain had no inhibitory effect on cell migration, combination of ouabain with Y27632 significantly reduced the migrated cell number of HeLa cells. Also Y27632 incubation by itself inhibited the migration of cells. Moreover similar results obtained from CT04 treatment. In contrast with data reported that ouabain has anti migratory properties at nanomolar concentrations, we demonstrated that low nanomolar concentration of the cardiac glycoside did not inhibit the HeLa cell migration. It has been known that ROCK inhibitors have some anticancer properties. In addition, cardiac glycosides have been developed and tested in clinical trial for the treatment of cancer. Therefore our findings imply that combination therapy of ouabain and Y27632 may be beneficial for cancer patients.

Grant Funding Source: This study is supported by TUBITAK in 110S426 project.
Gene expression profile of staphylococcal enterotoxin B and lipopolysaccharide induced human PBMCs (799.1)
Authors: Mendis Chanaka
Published: June 2021

Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), an exotoxin produced by staphylococcal aureus, is commonly associated with food poisoning and capable of triggering flu‐like symptoms resembling those of endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) released from Gram‐negative bacterial cell walls. Even though both exhibit analogous symptoms, each has its unique gene expression profile. Here we have successfully distinguished two toxins that display similar symptoms in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using multiple gene expression analysis. PBMCs are the most easily accessible biofluid, and include informative transcripts as a first line of immune defense for many disease processes and toxin exposures. Thirty genes that provided a unique genetic signature to differentiate exposures to the two toxins were first identified through microarray analysis and then validated by using multiple gene and protein quantitation techniques. We believe that this study will allow to differentiate two similar toxins and also to better predict various disease states.
Loss of DNA cytosine methylation increases ethidium bromide resistance in Escherichia coli (800.4)
Authors: Mandarano Alexandra , Varechtchouk Olga , Simon Robert , Militello Kevin
Published: June 2021

Loss of DNA cytosine methylation increases ethidium bromide resistance in Escherichia coli Alexandra H Mandarano, Olga Varechtchouk, Robert D Simon, Kevin T Militello. Biology, State University of New York at Geneseo, Geneseo, NY In E. coli, the second cytosine in the sequence 5’CC(A/T)GG3’ is methylated by the Dcm enzyme. The sugE gene, which codes for a membrane transporter, has one dcm recognition site in its 5’ flanking region, three in the open reading frame and one in the 3’ flanking region. We used qPCR to measure sugE RNA levels in wild‐type and dcm knockout cells. Our data demonstrate that the sugE gene is overexpressed at early stationary phase in dcm knockout cells. Expression of sugE also increased in the presence of the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5‐azacytidine. Furthermore, stationary phase sigma factor rpoS knockout cells showed significant decreases in sugE expression, which is consistent with a known inverse relationship between Dcm and RpoS expression. The sugE gene has been shown to confer resistance to quaternary ammonium compounds, and has been linked to ethidium bromide (EtBr) resistance. In order to determine if dcm influences the sensitivity to antibacterial compounds through changes in sugE expression, the sensitivity of wild‐type, dcm knockout, and sugE knockout strains was compared using Kirby‐Bauer disc diffusions assays, MIC assays and growth curve analyses. Our data indicate that sugE knockout cells are hypersensitive to EtBr, whereas dcm knockout cells have increased resistance to EtBr. We are continuing to investigate the effects of other drugs on these E. coli strains and aim to elucidate the mechanism of the effect of Dcm on SugE‐mediated drug resistance.

Grant Funding Source: Geneseo Foundation
Disparate regulation of IGF‐1 in primary osteoblasts isolated from MAPK phosphatase‐1 knockout mice involves AKT/ β‐catenin pathway (802.18)
Authors: Datta Nabanita , Datta Tanuka , Mahalingam Chandrika , Chukkapalli Sahiti
Published: June 2021

The role of MAPKs in osteogenesis and in Parathyroid hormone (PTH) signaling has been shown in vitro and in vivo previously. However, the role of MAPK phosphatase‐1 (MKP‐1) in bone formation remains unclear. We observed age dependent sexual dimorphism in bone phenotype of MKP‐1 knock out (KO) mice showing osteopenia in females and osteopetrosis in males. We investigate the involvement of MKP‐1 on b‐catenin, a key mediator of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway and an important regulator of bone forming cells, the osteoblasts. Signal transduction through b‐catenin requires inhibition of GSK‐3b which is also inhibited via phosphorylation by AKT upon insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) signaling. Real‐time PCR analysis of primary calvarial osteoblasts revealed significant down‐regulation of IGF‐1 mRNA expression in osteoblasts isolated from MKP‐1 KO female mice in contrast to KO osteoblasts from males. Inhibition of P‐ERK and P‐p38 with pharmacological inhibitors showed disparate regulation of IGF‐1 expression in WT and KO male and female mice, suggesting MKP‐1/MAPK dependent regulation of IGF‐1. Immunobloting showed diminished AKT phosphorylation and b‐catenin expression in KO osteoblasts in the presence or absence of PTH. Taken together, our findings provide new insight into the role of MKP‐1 in IGF‐1/AKT/b‐catenin pathway in osteoblast which may be of potential biological and pathophysiological importance.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by NIH DK087848 and WSU OVPR
The protein phosphatase isoforms PP1γ1 and PP1γ2 are non‐equivalent in supporting sperm function and male fertility (802.20)
Authors: Dudiki Tejasvi , Sinha Nilam , Kline Douglas , Vijayaraghavan Srinivasan
Published: June 2021

Ser/Thr phosphatase type I isoforms PP1γ1 and PP1γ2 are alternately spliced transcripts of one gene, PPP1CC. Amino acid sequences of PP1γ1 and PP1γ2 are identical except at their extreme C‐termini. PP1γ1 is ubiquitous whereas PP1γ2 is abundant in testis. PPP1CC knockout male mice (‐/‐) are sterile due to impaired sperm morphogenesis. Fertility can be restored in PPP1CC (‐/‐) mice by testis specific transgenic expression of PP1γ2. The purpose of this study was to determine if PP1γ1 is equivalent to PP1γ2 in supporting spermatogenesis and male fertility. We generated four different transgenic rescue mice lines with cDNA containing the entire PP1γ1 coding sequence followed by various portions of its 3’UTR. Testis expression of PP1γ1 occurred only when the transgene lacked a 1Kb segment immediately following the stop codon of the PP1γ1 transcript. Levels of the PP1γ1 transgene in this line were comparable to PP1γ2 levels in PPP1CC (+/‐) testis. Spermatogenesis was restored in these PP1γ1 rescue mice, but males were sub‐fertile due to impaired sperm motility. Our studies suggest that PP1γ1 in mammals is excluded in differentiating spermatogenic cells due to alternate splicing and miRNA mediated instability of its transcript. Thus PP1γ2, the PP1 isoform in mammalian sperm, has isoform specific functions in supporting normal sperm motility and male fertility.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by R15HD068971 and R15HD061869
Activity state of the RhoA GTPase and expression of effector molecules in placentas of women with preeclampsia (802.28)
Authors: Orozco‐Hernández Erika , Clemente‐Guerrero Mónica , Saavedra‐Molina Alfredo , Manzo‐Avalos Salvador
Published: June 2021

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy‐specific multifactorial disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after the 20th week of gestation. The placenta plays an important role in the origin of PE. It has been shown that RhoA proteins are involved in the development of hypertension and vasoconstriction due to contribute to the etiology of the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. These GTPases act as molecular switches interacting with effector molecules to generate cellular responses. The effector molecules of RhoA, such as ROCK, PKN and Dia, are important regulators for actin‐myosin interaction in vascular smooth muscle cells which are implicated in hypertension. Because of its importance and little background of RhoA protein and its effector molecules in placentas with PE, we determined its location in situ and activation status of RhoA, as well as their expression levels of effector molecules in cotyledon, umbilical artery and vein in placentas with PE. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the location of RhoA in umbilical artery and vein in pregnancies with PE is mainly in the inner layer whereas in cotyledon is in blood vessels. By pull‐down assay we observed an increase in the activation status of RhoA in all samples with PE. The expression level of effector molecules was increased in PE (Dia1, PKN and ROCK2 in the umbilical artery; PKN in umbilical vein, ROCK2 in cotyledon and ROCK1 was only detected in the cotyledon). The increase in activation of RhoA in umbilical artery and vein, suggests a possible participation of this proteins in pathological processes that generate vascular contraction in blood vessels during hypertension associated with PE. Besides effector molecules Dia1, PKN and ROCK2, ROCK1 may have an important role in the etiology of the syndrome. Acknowledgements: The authors appreciate the partial economic support from the grants of: CIC‐UMSNH (2.16 to ASM; 2.37 to SMA); CONACYT (169093 to ASM); EGOH is CONACYT fellow.
Phosphorylation of Epac1 by GRK2 inhibits Epac1‐Rap1 signaling and prevents chronic pain (802.7)
Authors: Singhmar Pooja , Huo XiaoJiao , Berciano Susana , Hawke David , Cheng Xiaodong , Mei Fang , Mayor Federico , Murga Cristina , Heijnen Cobi , Kavelaars Annemieke
Published: June 2021

Chronic pain is a major health issue that severely affects the quality of life of patients and it financially burdens the society. The understanding of molecular mechanisms that cause transition from acute to chronic pain remains a challenge and is critical for development of new interventions. G‐protein coupled receptor Kinase 2 (GRK2) is a key molecule in pain signaling. We recently described that GRK2 deficiency in nociceptors promotes transition to chronic inflammatory pain via an Exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) dependent pathway. The objective of this study was to investigate the mechanism via which GRK2 regulates cAMP induced Epac1 signaling. Using co‐immunoprecipitation studies we show that GRK2 binds Epac1 in neuronal cells. Epac1 specifically interacts with the kinase domain of GRK2. In vitro kinase assays revealed that GRK2 is an Epac1 kinase. Overexpression of GRK2, but not of GRK2 kinase dead mutant significantly reduced Epac‐to‐Rap1 signaling. Furthermore, we identified the Epac1 residue that is phosphorylated by GRK2 and this phosphorylation inhibits Epac1‐to‐Rap1 signaling. We conclude that GRK2 acts as an endogenous inhibitor of Epac1‐to‐Rap1 signaling by phosphorylating Epac1. In vivo, GRK2 kinase activity is required to inhibit transition to chronic pain. Thus, we uncovered a novel regulatory mechanism that is critical for regulating the pain response.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy characterizes vitamin deficiencies and infection status during pregnancy (804.1)
Authors: Sanchez‐Galan Javier , Gonzalez‐Fernandez Doris , Murillo Enrique , Scott Marilyn , Burns David , Koski Kristine
Published: June 2021

Background: Near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can identify spectral changes resulting from viral infections but has not been used to examine vitamin deficiencies or infection status during pregnancy.

Objectives: To determine if vitamin status (sufficient/deficient) for A, D, B12, and folate, and presence/absence of respiratory, skin, oral, urogenital infections were reflected in NIR of maternal serum in 2nd (n=90) and 3rd trimester (n=100) in rural Panama.

Methods: Eight functional groups (1600‐2400nm) were selected (CH, SH, POH, ROH, amide, amine, lactate and glucose). Values for each functional group and their ratios were compared by trimester between mothers with/without each deficiency, and with/without each infection using Mann‐Whitney U‐test.

Results: Serum profiles differed by vitamin status in the 2nd trimester for vitamins A (amide:lactate, amine:lactate, lactate:glucose), B12 (POH:amide, ROH:amide) and folate (CH:ROH, SH:ROH). Differences were also observed for oral (CH:SH) and respiratory (amine:glucose) infections. In the third trimester, differences with vitamin D status involved both glucose and amine whereas folic acid deficiency involved differences only in amine. Only lactate differed between women with and without respiratory infections.

Conclusion: NIR spectroscopy identified spectral differences due to nutrient deficiencies and infections.

Grant Funding Source: SENACYT, NSERC
Fast and efficient estimation of micronutrient intake in Brazil (804.16)
Authors: Biesalski Hans , Feuerstein Clarissa , Lambert Christine , Finco Fernanda
Published: June 2021

A fast and efficient detection of micronutrient deficiencies is needed to fight Hidden Hunger, which causes numerous development disorders. In this work we developed a method of detecting micronutrient malnutrition, which is based on intake data of food groups, not on single foods. This facilitates data acquisition for interviewer and respondent as well as time management for data input. The focus is on accurate estimation of intake of the most misrepresented micronutrients in the Brazilian diet (iron, vitamin A, vitamin E, thiamin, calcium, folate).

The Food groups were created from 24‐Hour Dietary Recalls on two non‐consecutive days of 34,003 Brazilian inhabitants, retrieved from the National Dietary Survey 2008‐2009. Traditional food groups, like vegetables or fruits, were refined by isolating food types that considerably bias the average nutrient amount of each group. This has been accomplished by considering population’s consumption variance and by using cluster analysis to isolate food types with an extreme deviating nutrient amount.

As a result, 20 stable food groups were formed, based on their average food consumption and nutrient composition. The average nutrient amount was calculated for population subgroups defined by the 5 geographic regions of Brazil and four income groups.

In conclusion, the program can help to uncover cases of malnutrition and facilitate actively the governmental efforts.
Urinary iodine and goiter in preschool children from the Amhara region, Ethiopia (804.23)
Authors: Gashu Dawd , Bougma Karim , Harding Kimberly , Samuel Aregash , Adish Abdulaziz , Desse Gulelat , Marquis Grace
Published: June 2021

Iodine deficiency (ID) is highly prevalent in Ethiopia. As part of a salt iodization project, children (n=688) 54‐60 months of age were randomly selected from 26 districts of the Amhara region, Ethiopia. Anthropometry, urinary iodine (UI) and goiter were assessed and the presence of visible goiter in the family was queried between October, 2011‐March, 2012. Children’s nutritional status was categorized using WHO standards. UI was determined using the Sandell‐Kolthoff reaction. Goiter was assessed by palpation following the WHO/UNICEF/ICCIDD guidelines. Stunting (<‐2HAZ) was 43.2% while underweight (<‐2WAZ) was 29.9 %. The median UI was 11.4 µg/L and varied widely by district (0‐286 µg/L). Individual values ranged from 0‐502 µg/L. Overall, 20.9 % of children had visible goiter and 23 % had palpable goiter, with variation by district in total goiter rate from 5‐79%. Goiter prevalence was significantly higher in children with visible goiter in the family than in children from families without visible goiter. Median UI was higher (p=0.001) in children from families without visible goiter than from families with visible goiter (20 vs. 4.1 µg/L), respectively. Our data illustrate the severity of ID in Amhara region and the need for rapid and complete implementation of salt iodization. The wide variation in goiter prevalence and UI among districts emphasizes the importance of both national and local monitoring programs

Grant Funding Source: Funded by Micronutrient Initiative and The German Academic Exchange Service
Food iron fortification, high meat intake and HFE gene in a healthy adult male population from Argentina (804.25)
Authors: Airaldi Romina , Castro Marcelo , Sebastiano Vanesa , Donadío Luján , Budetti Cecilia , Rey Jorge , Lardo Marta , Fleischman Silvana , Felipoff Ana , Langini Silvia
Published: June 2021

Wheat flour fortification with iron (Fe) is mandatory in Argentina since 2002, although feeding habits are characterized by high bovine meat intake‐ (54.1 kg/per capita/y, FAO 2009). To estimate heme and nonheme Fe intake, 87 male blood donors (19‐65 y) attending the Hospital de Clínicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina, (2012‐2013) were enrolled in the study. A 135‐item food‐frequency questionnaire including bovine meat, poultry, fish, pork, processed meat, cereal products and bakery products prepared with wheat flour fortified with Fe (30 mg Fe/Kg) was administered. Daily Fe intake was calculated according to ARGENFOODS and USDA National Nutrient Database on Standard Reference. Genotyping for the C282Y, H63D and S65C mutations in the HFE gene was performed (PCR‐RFLP) in samples (n=40) collected with EDTA. Dietary Fe intake (mg/d) was: Mean ± SD (range): Total Fe (T): 24.2±12.5 (8.9‐63); Heme Fe (H): 2.26±1.45 (0.00‐6.84); Nonheme Fe (NonH): 22± 11.8 (7.4 ‐59.8); Fe‐fortified wheat flour (Fe‐WF): 10.5 ±6.9 (2.6‐44). Fe intake was higher (111% ‐ 788%) than RDA (8 mg/d, FNB); Fe‐WF was 47.7% of NonH. Heterozygosity and homozygosity for H63D mutation was 15% and 2.5%, respectively; C282Y nor S65C occurred. These preliminary results alert about potential diet‐related effects of Fe accumulation in a population most probably unaware of any family history of Fe overload.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by Universidad de Buenos Aires 20720120200004BA, Argentina
Retinol and tocopherol status in pulmonary tuberculosis patients in the country of Georgia (804.29)
Authors: Jones Jennifer , Frediani Jennifer , Tukvadze Nestan , Kipiani Maia , Sanikidze Eka , Hebbar Gautam , Booth Sarah , Blumberg Henry , Tangpricha Vin , Ziegler Thomas
Published: June 2021

Objective: Evaluate serial plasma retinol and tocopherol levels in adults with new pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Methods: 129 subjects with pulmonary TB disease were enrolled in a randomized, controlled trial of high‐dose vitamin D3 (D3) + anti‐TB drugs. Plasma retinol, α‐tocopherol, and γ‐tocopherol were measured by HPLC (baseline, wks 8 and 16). Household contacts of TB subjects were baseline controls. Descriptive statistics (mean ± SD) and repeated measures ANOVA were used.

Results: TB subjects exhibited significantly lower baseline plasma retinol (33.3 ± 11.7 vs. 58.8 ± 17.7 µg/dL; p < 0.001) and γ‐tocopherol (33.6 ± 15.6 vs. 40.8 ± 15.5 µg/dL; p = 0.02) levels vs. controls; α‐tocopherol levels were similar. D3 administration did not affect nutrient levels over time. Pooled data in all TB subjects revealed an increase in retinol levels over time (baseline to wk 16, +22%; p < 0.001). Levels of γ‐tocopherol rose at wk 8 (+11%; p < 0.001) but declined to baseline by wk 16. In contrast, α‐tocopherol fell by 9% at wk 16 vs. baseline (p < 0.01). Subjects with a BMI < 18.5 (n = 19), exhibited lower α‐tocopherol levels at wk 16 vs. baseline and wk 8 values (p = .003).

Conclusions: Plasma retinol and tocopherol levels were lower in subjects with TB disease vs. uninfected household contacts. During anti‐TB treatment, plasma retinol increased and α‐tocopherol decreased, particularly in the more malnourished patients.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by NIH K24 DK096574 and Emory Global Health Institute
Micronutrient status during pregnancy and effects of antenatal supplementation with multiple micronutrients versus iron‐folic acid in rural Bangladesh (804.3)
Authors: Schulze Kerry , Shaikh Saijuddin , Shamim Abu , Ali Hasmot , Wu Lee , Christian Parul , Labrique Alain , Klemm Rolf , Mehra Sucheta , Sungpuag Pongtorn , Wasantwisut Emorn , West Keith
Published: June 2021

Women often enter pregnancy with micronutrient deficiencies that are exacerbated by the demands of pregnancy. Yet micronutrient status of pregnant women is uncommonly assessed, even as momentum toward preventing multiple micronutrient (MM) deficiencies increases worldwide. In a substudy of a trial of MM versus iron‐folic acid (IFA) supplementation from first trimester (TM) through 3 mo postpartum in rural Bangladesh, we identified n=1526 women with plasma samples obtained in the 1st TM, prior to supplementation, and in the 3rd TM, in whom to evaluate micronutrient status. In available data (n=234‐1440 per nutrient assay), 6.8% of women were vitamin A deficient (retinol < 0.7 μmol/L), 41.7% had low β‐carotene (< 0.09 μmol/L), 57.7% were vitamin E (α‐tocopherol < 12 μmol/L) and 73.5% were vitamin D (25‐hydroxyvitamin D < 50 nmol/L) deficient. Folate deficiency (plasma folate < 6.8 nmol/L) was 2.6%, while vitamin B12 deficiency (cobalamin < 150 pmol/L) occurred in 29.8% of women. Anemia affected 20.6% of women, but iron deficiency by TfR (4.7% > 8.3 μg/mL) and ferritin (1.8% < 12 μg/L) was uncommon. Alpha‐1 acid glycoprotein > 1 g/L, indicating inflammation, was present in 8.1% of women. Baseline zinc and iodine status, and MM versus IFA effects on micronutrient status by the 3rd TM, will be presented. Vitamin deficiencies are common early in pregnancy in rural Bangladesh, representing preventable hidden hunger.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grant #614
Variation in iodine concentration of salt at the local level following national salt iodization in Ethiopia (804.31)
Authors: Gebreegziabher Tafere , Tsegaye Workneh , Stoecker Barbara
Published: June 2021

Ethiopia launched a salt iodization program in 2011. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentration of iodine in salt 2 years after the national proclamation that all salt for human consumption should be iodized. Salt samples were collected from 193 randomly selected households in Sidama zone, southern Ethiopia. The study participants were from farming communities where more than two‐thirds of the families were subsistence farmers. Iodine concentration of salt was analyzed using a portable digital electronic iodine checker (WYD, UNICEF) and by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). Correlation between the analyses was 0.69 (p<0.001). Mean (±SEM) iodine concentration using the digital iodine checker was 7.8 (8.0) ppm and by ICP‐MS was 9.8 (8.6) ppm. The recommended salt iodine concentration at the household level should be 15 to 40 ppm, but in this survey varied from 0 to 41.1 ppm; only 21% of households had >15 ppm. Salt samples from 10 retail shops and open markets had a mean iodine concentration of 5.3 (4.0) ppm with a range from 0 to 10.9 ppm which was far below the recommended retail level of 20‐40 ppm. The results indicate that salt may not be homogenously or adequately iodized and/or storage and handling may not be appropriate. Hence a strong monitoring strategy from production to household level for Ethiopia’s salt iodization program is of great importance.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by Nestlé Foundation and Oklahoma State University
The association between food insecurity and sleep duration varies by sex (805.10)
Authors: Ding Meng , Zizza Claire
Published: June 2021

Although food insecure adults are at risk for diabetes mellitus, little research attention has been given to their health behaviors. Thus, we examined the association between adult food insecurity and sleep duration. Our population‐based sample included 4549 men and 4224 women (22‐64y) who participated in the NHANES 2005‐2010. Food security status was assessed with USDA’s Food Security Survey Module and sleep duration was based on participants’ self‐reported usual hours of sleep. Multiple linear regression models were used to estimate the association between sleep duration and food security status. The association varied by sex (p< .0001) and thus, analyses were stratified by sex. Those reporting less than seven hours of sleep ranged from 39% in both fully food secure (FFS) and marginally food secure (MFS) to 49% in very low food secure (VLFS) men. The percentage ranged from 32% in FFS to 55% in VLFS women. VLFS women reported significantly shorter sleep duration than FFS women (p = .002). The adjusted mean values of sleep duration for women who were FFS, MFS, low food secure and VLFS were 6.84 h, 6.78 h, 6.71 h and 6.46 h, respectively. In conclusion, VLFS women slept less than FFS women, but no relationship was observed among men. Regardless of food security status, a considerable proportion of both men and women had inadequate sleep, which may lead to adverse health consequences.

Grant Funding Source: This study was supported in part by the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (ALA043)
Food security and livestock production amongst Haitian smallholder farmers (805.7)
Authors: Sinclair Kate , Dallmann Diana , Parent Jasmine , Garcia Miguel , Melgar‐Quinonez Hugo
Published: June 2021

Food insecurity (FIS) is highly prevalent in Haiti with an unequal distribution amongst the rural population. The objective of this study is to examine the contribution that livestock production has to food security in smallholder farmers. The level of FIS of 502 households was determined using the Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale. Households were categorized as severely FIS (62.0%), moderately FIS (28.3%), mildly FIS (7.2%), and food secure (2.6%). Livestock units (LSU) per household were calculated to examine the contribution of livestock to food security. Food secure households had a mean of 11.5 LSU, mildly FIS had 9.3 LSU, moderately FIS had 6.5 LSU, and severely FIS had 5.4 LSU. All differences between categories were statistically significant (P< 0.001). Food secure farmers have also a higher estimated monetary value on livestock than food insecure farmers (P<0.001). Additionally, food secure households produce significantly more milk than all other categories. The findings show that having more livestock units might positively impact the food security status of small farmers, as well as their ability to produce animal source foods. The study shows the importance of animal production among Haitian small farmers, which might be linked to intake of animal source foods.
Self‐reported and pharmacy claims‐based medication adherence in low‐income older Medicare beneficiaries with type 2 diabetes (806.1)
Authors: Sattler Elisabeth , Lee Jung Sun
Published: June 2021

Little is known about the validity of commonly used medication adherence measures in low‐income older adults with type 2 diabetes. This study compared self‐report of cost‐related delaying (re)fills with the total gap in medication (re)fills of metformin, one of the most frequently prescribed diabetes medications, based on pharmacy claims data in 2008. The sample consisted of low‐income Medicare Part D beneficiaries in Georgia with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and >1 metformin (re)fill (n=77, mean age 71.3 ± 5.6 years, 79.2% white, 76.6% female). About 68% of the study sample took >2 diabetes medications and 83.1% received prescription subsidy support, yet 76.6% had >1 diabetes complication. The median (Q1, Q3) total gap in (re)filling metformin during 2008 was 89.0 days (44.0, 193.0). For analysis, the total metformin (re)fill gap measure was categorized into tertiles. There were no significant differences in sociodemographic, economic, and health characteristics of participants across the 3 metformin (re)fill gap groups, nor between those reporting and not reporting delaying (re)fills. In multivariate analyses, the association between self‐reported delaying (re)fills and the level of metformin (re)fill gap did not reach statistical significance (OR 1.2; 95% CI 0.5, 2.8). More research is warranted to find ways to validly assess medication adherence in low‐income older adults with a high medication burden.
Mothers’ perception on weight status was a determinant of obesity among Michigan migrant seasonal farm worker families (806.10)
Authors: Song SuJin , Gonzalez Andie , Shin Da Yeon , Nieves Violeta , Song Won
Published: June 2021

Migrant Seasonal Farm Worker (MSFW) families are vulnerable to many nutritional health risks, but little is known on determinants of obesity in this population. We aimed to identify the gap in knowledge about determinants of obesity among Michigan MSFW families. Study participants were recruited from five pre‐selected Telamon’s Michigan Migrant Head Start (MMHS) centers between July and August 2013. A total of 76 families who had at least one child enrolled in the MMHS were interviewed in English or Spanish, using an online survey questionnaire for collection of data on socio‐demographics, food security, perception on weight status (self and children), and nutrition knowledge. Height and weight were measured for each family member with a portable height and weight scale. The MSFW families were low in socioeconomic status (<130% PIR) with high prevalence of food insecurity (58%) and overweight/obesity (76% of mothers and 48% of children). Mothers had inaccurate perception on weight status for self and their children and poor nutrition knowledge. Mothers with inaccurate perception on weight status were more likely to be overweight/obese and have poor nutrition knowledge compared to those with accurate perception. Among overweight/obese children, the rates of overweight/obese mothers and mothers with inaccurate perception on weight status were higher than those of under/normal weight children. Mothers’ inaccurate perception on weight status might be a determinant of obesity among the MSFW families and it need to be improved by nutrition education to combat obesity.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by Telamon Corporation, MSU Extension, Julian Samora Research Institute, CAMP at MSU
Influences on eating and physical activity: a qualitative study in adolescents in a periurban area in Lima, Peru (806.13)
Authors: Banna Jinan , Buchthal Vanessa , Delormier Treena , Creed‐Kanashiro Hilary , Penny Mary
Published: June 2021

To gain insight into socio‐cultural influences on adolescent eating and physical activity, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 14 adolescents 15‐17 years in periurban Lima, Peru. Interview transcripts were analyzed using content analysis to identify predominant themes of influencing factors. Results indicated that families are key for promoting healthy eating; parents often provided advice on food selection, home‐cooked meals, and fostered cooking skills. With peers, participants reported consuming energy‐dense and micronutrient‐poor items such as sweetened beverages and packaged snacks, but also often spent time with friends being physically active. Participants noted the importance of foods such as legumes and fish for anemia prevention. Adolescents used the Internet frequently for entertainment, communication, and for nutrition information, and viewed Internet sources as credible. Concerns about body image and desire to appear ‘thin’ also influenced intake, particularly in females. Lack of financial resources to purchase food was also mentioned. Further research is warranted to elucidate the roles of factors shaping behavior, particularly that of family. Addressing nutrition‐related issues such as obesity and iron‐deficiency anemia in this population requires consideration of the effect of social and environmental factors in the context of adolescent lifestyles on behavior.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Instituto de Investigación Nutricional
The relationship between self‐rated health and dietary choices of African Americans (806.6)
Authors: Vivas Alejandra , Exebio Joel , Zarini Gustavo , Ajabshir Sahar , Antwi Janet , Cheema Amanpreet , Vaccaro Joan , Huffman Fatma
Published: June 2021

This cross sectional study investigated the relationship between dietary patterns measured with Healthy Eating Index 2005 (HEI‐05) and Self‐Rated Health (SRH) in African Americans (AA) with (n=129) and without (n=120) type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recruitment was by community outreach in South Florida. Socio‐demographic information and SRH were collected using questionnaires or self‐report. Dietary variables were collected using the Willett’s food frequency questionnaire, and then HEI‐05 scores were calculated. Reported SRH of individuals with T2D was lower (33.9%, p=.001) than SRH of those without T2D for excellent/very good category. HEI‐05 scores between T2D (41.10±11.62) and without T2D (44.01±13.54) groups were only marginally significant (p=.088). Linear regression model showed an association between SRH and HEI‐05 (p=.038, B=‐2.758) after controlling for covariates. ANCOVA analysis showed that after controlling for covariates the mean HEI‐05 scores of “excellent/very good” SRH group (46.53 ± 1.81) were significantly higher than HEI‐05 scores of “good” SRH group (41.77± 1.22, p=.029) and also than “fair/poor” SRH group (40.54±1.57, p=.016). African Americans had better dietary choices when they perceived their health as “excellent/very good”.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by NIH/NIDDK sponsored grant. AV was supported by NIH/NIGMS R25 GM061347.
Participation in government nutrition assistance programs and purchase of sugar‐sweetened beverages of low‐income mothers of preschool children (806.8)
Authors: Lora Karina , Branscum Paul , Anderson Michael
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of purchasing sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSB) with low‐income mothers of preschool children participating in government assistance programs such as Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Participants (n=110) provided demographics, purchase frequency of SSB’s for themselves and family members, and responded to a short home beverage inventory. In adjusted models, a logistic regression analysis showed the odds for purchasing SSB increased when one adult lived in the home compared to three or more adults (aOR 11.64, 95%CI 1.012‐133.88), among mothers not participating in WIC (aOR 10.55, 95%CI 1.83‐60.90), and decreased among mothers not participating in SNAP (aOR 0.11, 95%CI 0.02‐0.75) (p<.05). Additionally, chi‐square analyses found there were significant differences in spouse/partner purchases of sports drinks, “big shop” after receiving SNAP benefits, WIC participation, and spouse/partner and children influence on maternal purchase of beverages between SNAP and non‐SNAP participants (p<.05). Participation in SNAP, but not in WIC, was associated with higher likelihood of purchasing SSB, suggesting the need for policies and educational messaging that may help improve dietary quality of low‐income families participating in SNAP.
Development and testing of fact‐ and emotion‐based messages to motivate parents to engage in practices that promote intake of calcium among 10‐13 year‐old children (807.2)
Authors: Gunther Carolyn , Banna Jinan , Bruhn Christine , Cluskey Mary , Wong SiewSun , Richards Rickelle , Reicks Marla
Published: June 2021

Role modeling, making calcium‐rich foods available and setting healthful beverage expectations are parental practices associated with calcium intake among early adolescents. The purpose of this study was to develop and test fact‐ and emotion‐based messages for comprehension and perceived motivation of parents to engage in these practices. A convenience sample of 17 Hispanic and 18 Asian parents of early adolescents in five states (CA, HI, MN, OH, OR, UT) were interviewed based on a standard protocol. Two to six different messages (images and taglines) were developed (fact‐ and emotion‐based) and tested for each of the 3 parental practices. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and responses were grouped by parental race/ethnicity, parental practice and whether they were fact‐ or emotion‐based. Responses were read for common themes with respect to comprehension, cultural and personal relevance, and ability to motivate parents. Two messages for each parental practice (one fact‐based and one emotion‐based) were selected as having the most positive responses from parents. Parents indicated that messages intended to convey facts or to appeal to emotions were consistent with the developer’s intentions. Messages will be revised based on parent comments and tested via an online survey with additional Hispanic and Asian parents nationwide to determine which will serve as the basis for a promotional program for parents.
Overweight elementary school students are more physically active than normal weight students (808.1)
Authors: Chan Charlene , Goto Keiko , Wolff Cindy , Bianco‐Simeral Stephanie
Published: June 2021

The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to examine the association between body mass index (BMI) and fruit and vegetable (FV) intake and BMI and physical activity (PA) by race in three low‐income northern California schools consisting of primarily White and Hmong elementary school students. A total of 244 4th and 5th grade students were classified into three racial groups: White, Hmong and Other. Students were measured for height and weight and completed an in‐class survey assessing FV intake and PA behavior. The Kruskal‐Wallis test was used for data analysis. The overweight and obesity prevalence was 31%. While there was no significant association between BMI and PA among Hmong and Other students, overweight White students had a significantly higher PA level than normal weight White students. Among students from other races, overweight students reported consuming more vegetables than normal weight students, whereas no association between BMI and FV intake was observed among White and Hmong students. Additional research is needed to further understand possible explanations of varied associations between BMI and PA and BMI and vegetable intake among different racial groups. Educators and health care providers may need to consider different strategies when delivering health education to different racial groups.