bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficiency of the DNA glycosylase OGG1 alters muscle mitochondrial dynamics and predisposes mice to diet‐induced metabolic disease
Authors: Sampath Harini , Vartanian Vladimir , Lloyd R. Stephen
Published: June 2021

Previous reports have suggested that markers of mitochondrial fission are upregulated in skeletal muscle of mouse models of obesity. However, the precise mechanisms mediating this change in mitochondrial morphology have not yet been elucidated, and damage to cellular DNA due to oxidative stress has not been investigated as a causal factor in the maintenance of mitochondrial dynamics. We have recently demonstrated that mice lacking the DNA repair glycosylase OGG1, which repairs the major oxidative DNA lesion 8‐OH‐dG, unexpectedly develop obesity and other features of metabolic syndrome upon being fed a high‐fat diet (HFD). Interestingly, while wild‐type mice upregulate mitochondrial fission genes only upon being fed a HFD, Ogg1−/− mice display increased expression of these genes even under chowfed conditions. This alteration in mitochondrial dynamics in Ogg1−/− mice occurs in the absence of changes in body weight or fat mass and is accompanied by a significant reduction in grip strength and an increased propensity to diet‐induced insulin resistance. Feeding Ogg1−/− mice a HFD does not further increase the expression of these key regulators, including dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) and mitochondrial fission 1 protein (Fis1), suggesting that oxidative DNA damage alone may play a pivotal role in maintaining the mitochondrial network in skeletal muscle and whole body metabolic homeostasis. Support: AHA 11POST7480004 to HS, NIH RO1 DK075974 to RSL
A small optogenetic tool for spatiotemporal control of intracellular cAMP
Authors: O'Banion Colin Padraic , Lawrence David S
Published: June 2021

Cellular signaling is highly compartmentalized in both time and space as exemplified by the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway. PKA and associated signaling proteins are sequestered to specific subcellular compartments by A‐kinase anchoring proteins to generate distinct signaling microenvironments. These signaling nodes provide spatial specificity to PKA so that this otherwise ubiquitous signaling pathway is only activated in the right location and at the right time. Although many tools are available to manipulate cellular signaling on a global scale, it is difficult to control intracellular signaling with any degree of spatiotemporal resolution. In order to overcome this challenge, we have generated a light‐activated adenylate cyclase (bPAC) targeted to the plasma membrane, nucleus, outer mitochondrial membrane, inner mitochondrial membrane, and mitochondrial matrix as an optogenetic tool which provides high spatial and temporal resolution over the cAMP/PKA pathway. We used molecular engineering approaches in conjunction with biochemical and cell biology assays such as western blotting and fluorescent microscopy to show that bPAC activation results in compartment specific PKA phosphorylation events upon stimulation with light, and that activity is localized to discrete locations within the cell using mitochondria as a model for compartmentalized signaling.
VE‐cadherin “gap” formation during transendothelial migration is regulated by a novel mechansim involving the lateral border recycling compartment
Authors: Gonzalez Annette M , Cyrus Bita , Muller William A
Published: June 2021

Leukocyte transendothelial migration (TEM) is regulated by two major events: VE‐cadherin gaps forming at cell‐cell junctions and the lateral border recycling compartment (LBRC) trafficking to the site of transmigration. However, the relationship between these two events is unclear. We previously demonstrated that targeting of the LBRC and subsequent TEM were selectively inhibited by colcemide, a microtubule depolymerizing drug. Using a similar approach, we assessed the role of the LBRC in VE‐cadherin gap formation. VE‐cadherin gap formation was blocked under conditions where targeting of the LBRC was inhibited by colcemide. We obtained similar results using live cell imaging microscopy. Phosphorylation of tyrosine residues Y658 and Y731 on VE‐cadherin's cytoplasmic tail has been shown to be required for transmigration. Mutating these residues to phenylalanine inhibited TEM and formation of VE‐cadherin gaps. We expressed VE‐cadherin double‐mutant (Y658F, Y731F) in endothelial cells and found that targeting of the LBRC still occurred under conditions where VE‐cadherin gaps could not form. Together, these data suggest that targeting of the LBRC to the site of transmigration precedes VE‐cadherin gap formation. We hypothesize that recruitment of the LBRC plays a role in clearing VE‐cadherin from the site of transmigration. Supported by NIH grants RO1 HL046849 and R37 HL064774.
Structure, function and assembly of Rubisco activase
Authors: Wachter Rebekka M , Levitus Marcia , Salvucci Michael E. , Henderson J. Nathan , Hazra Suratna , Kuriata Agnieszka M. , Chakraborty Manas
Published: June 2021

In higher plants, the P‐loop ATPase Rubisco activase (Rca) helps coordinate the light and dark reactions of photosynthesis by catalyzing the release of inhibitors from Rubisco. When ATP levels drop or the temperature rises, Rca activity falls off, Rubisco inactivates, and atmospheric carbon fixation ceases. We have used X‐ray crystallography to show that the Rubisco recognition site on Rca involves an insertion into the canonical AAAplus domain that places the specificity‐determining residues around the periphery of ring‐like assemblies. Kinetic assays provide a Michaelis constant for ATP hydrolysis of 15 micromolar and a Ki for ADP of 6 micromolar, in line with moderate product inhibition. In the presence of ADP, positive cooperativity of 2 subunits is indicated. However, when ADP is lacking, positive cooperativity of 3 or more subunits is observed, suggesting an allosteric regulatory mechanism based on the ADP/ATP ratio in the stroma. Using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, we have determined that ADP‐bound Rca self‐associates in a step‐wise fashion to form oligomeric and higher‐order forms from dimeric building blocks. We propose that in vitro, ADP‐bound Rca self‐associates by forming spiral arrays that grow along the helical axis. This work was supported by the US DOE‐BES, Photosynthetic Systems Grants No. DE‐FG02–09‐ER16123 and No. DE‐FG02–08ER‐20268.
Artecxin induced mitochondrial membrane permeability transition (MMPT) pore opening in rat liver
Authors: Adisa Rahmat Adetutu , Ogunyebi Oluwaseun Temitope , Idowu Oluwasegun
Published: June 2021

Artecxin is a brand of Artemisinin combined antimalarial drug containing the biotransformed metabolite of Artemisinin ‐ dihydroartemisinin (32 mg), Piperaquine phosphate (160 mg) and Trimethoprim (90 mg). However, there is paucity of information on the modulatory effects of Artecxin on the mitochondria. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of low (6.8 mg/kg), therapeutic (13.6 mg/kg) and over (27.2 mg/kg) doses of Artecxin on mitochondrial membrane permeability transition (MMPT) pore opening and biomarkers of liver and kidney functions. Twenty male Wistar strain albino rats (150–200g) were divided into four groups of five animals each. Groups I, II, III, IV received distilled water, 6.8 mg/kg, 13.6 mg/kg, and 27.2 mg/kg of Artecxin, respectively. Treatments were administered for 2 days at 0, 8, 24 and 32 hs. Degree of swelling (MMPT) was monitored spectrophotometrically as decreases in absorbance at 540 nm. Artecxin at 6.8, 13.6 and 27.2 mg/kg induced 16.7, 16.7 and 40 % opening of the MMPT pore. In the presence of Ca2+MMPT was opened by 54.9 and 26 % in the 13.6 and 27.2 mg/kg treated rats. Spermine (inhibitor) inhibited Ca2+‐induced pore opening by 66.7, 59 and 56.6 % in the 6.8 mg/kg, 13.6 mg/kg, and 27.2 mg/kg treated rats, respectively. Serum levels of creatinine and urea were not significantly (p<0.05) different from control except at 27.2 mg/kg Artecxin. The presence of visible lesions was confirmed in liver and kidney photomicrographs of rats administered 27.2 mg/kg. These data revealed that administration of Artecxin even at below, therapeutic and over dose could induce mitochondrial mediated apoptosis. The drug tends to predispose mitochondria to non‐responsiveness to inhibitors of MMPT pore opening and apoptosis.
Elucidating the Effect of HDL on the OxPAPC Response in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Emert Benjamin , Hasin Yehudit , Lusis Jake , Berliner Judith
Published: June 2021

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder and the primary cause of cardiovascular diseases. Oxidized 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐ arachidonyl‐sn‐phosphatidylcholine (OxPAPC) accumulates in atherosclerotic lesions and alters the expression of over 1000 genes in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). High‐density lipoprotein (HDL) has been shown to suppress the effects of OxPAPC, thereby protecting the cell from oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we used microarray analysis in 5 HAEC donors, to demonstrate that HDL reduces the transcriptional response of up to 65% of the genes regulated by OxPAPC. We define this effect as the HDL response. Due to the variation in the OxPAPC and HDL responses among the donors, we did not identify specific pathways affected by HDL. Still, we investigated both receptor specific and receptor independent mechanisms mediating the HDL response. Using siRNA mediated gene knockdown, we determined that the HDL response is independent of the expression of scavenger receptor class B‐1. We further demonstrate that cholesterol loading of the cell membrane is able to mimic some but not all of the action of HDL. Taken together, our work provides greater insight into the mechanism by which HDL regulates endothelial cell function.
Structural Basis for Acyl‐substrate Delivery and Product Release by ACP in the Biosynthesis of Lipid A
Authors: Masoudi Ali , Pemble Charles W. , Raetz Christian R.H. , Zhou Pei
Published: June 2021

Acyl‐carrier‐protein (ACP) is the principal transporter of fatty acids, coordinating acyl‐transfer among a vast network of diverse enzymes and biochemical processes. ACP association with protein partners is thought to be exceedingly transient. This paradigm has posed challenges for understanding the molecular basis for acyl‐delivery and dissociation. During biosynthesis of the lipid A component of lipopolysaccharides, ACP shuttles acyl‐intermediates thioester‐linked to its prosthetic 4′‐phosphopantetheine arm among four acyltransferases, including LpxD. LpxD is responsible for transferring a single β‐OH‐C14 acyl‐chain delivered by ACP to uridine diphosphate‐acyl‐glucosamine. We determined the crystal structures of three modified forms of Escherichia coli ACP engaging LpxD, which represent stalled intermediates along the reaction coordinate. The structures reveal the intricate interactions at the interface that optimally position ACP for acyl‐delivery and that directly contact the prosthetic group. Conformational differences among the stalled ACPs provide the molecular basis for the association‐dissociation process. An unanticipated conformational shift between 4′‐phosphopantetheine groups within the LpxD catalytic chamber exposes an unprecedented role of ACP in facilitating product release.
Membrane‐protein structure determination by solid‐state NMR spectroscopy of microcrystals: The autotransport domain of Yersinia YadA
Authors: Linke Dirk , Shahid Shakeel , Habeck Michael , Bardiaux Benjamin , van Rossum Barth
Published: June 2021

Membrane proteins are largely underrepresented among available atomic‐resolution structures. The use of detergents in protein purification procedures hinders the formation of well‐ordered crystals for X‐ray crystallography and leads to slower molecular tumbling, impeding the application of solution‐state NMR. Solid‐state magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy is an emerging method for membrane‐protein structural biology that can overcome these technical problems. Here we present the solid‐state NMR structure of the transmembrane domain of the Yersinia enterocolitica adhesin A (YadA). The sample was derived from crystallization trials that yielded only poorly diffracting microcrystals.

We solved the structure using a single, uniformly 13C‐ and 15N‐labeled sample. In addition, solid‐state NMR allowed us to acquire information on the flexibility and mobility of parts of the structure, which, in combination with evolutionary conservation information, presents new insights into the autotransport mechanism of YadA.

Funding: This work was supported by contract research ‘Forschungsprogramm Methoden für die Lebenswissenschaften’ of the Baden‐Württemberg Stiftung
Structural basis of urea permeation through HpUreI, the urea channel of the human pathogen Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Strugatsky David , McNulty Reginald , Munson Keith , Sachs George , Luecke Hartmut
Published: June 2021

The proton‐gated urea channel, HpUreI of the human pathogen, Helicobacter pylori, plays an essential role in gastric acid survival. We used both crystal structure analysis of HpUreI in its open form and site‐directed mutagenesis to investigate the structural basis of urea passage through the channel. The crystal structure of the HpUreI revealed that the channel is hour‐glass shaped with a wide entry and exit with two constriction sites in the middle of the channel comprised of aliphatic and aromatic side chains highly conserved in all members of the UreI/AmiS superfamily. We mutated conserved residues lining the constriction sites and measured uptake of [14C]‐urea and [14C]‐thiourea, mediated by the mutants expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Mutation of residues L6, F84 and W149 in the periplasmic constriction site severely impaired the urea transport rate, while mutation of residues L13, Y88 and W153 in cytoplasmic constriction site altered both rate and substrate selectivity. Moreover, mutation of other channel conserved residues, L83, T87, W146, L152, affected both transport rate and substrate selectivity of the channel. Therefore, a complex network of residues defines the urea pathway.

Supported by NIH grants: R01AI78000, P30CA062203, R01DK53462, R01DK58333 and NCI institutional training grant 5 T32 CA9054–34.
Characterization of Riboflavin Binding Protein structure
Authors: Alazawi Neam K , Smith Sheila R , Benore Marilee Ann
Published: June 2021

Riboflavin‐Binding Protein (RBP) is a glycophosphoprotein responsible for the transport of the vitamin Riboflavin in oviparous and other species. Evidence of copper binding by RBP suggests that the protein plays a role in copper transport. Identification and characterization of the specific RBP:Copper binding site is hindered by the lack of assay methods for the native or recombinant proteins. An improved protocol to purify and identify RBP was developed using Western blot methods adapted and optimized using rabbit antibody for identification. These methods can be used for purification and identification of recombinant RBP proteins.
The secretion of VEGF165 involves a shedding step from the cell surface
Authors: Guzman‐Hernandez Maria Luisa , Potter Gael , Kim Yeun Ju , Kiss Jozsef Z. , Balla Tamas
Published: June 2021

VEGF165 is the major isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that controls physiological and pathological angiogenesis. While the functional roles of VEGF165 have been extensively studied, its intracellular trafficking and mode of secretion remain largely unknown. In previous studies we reported on the trafficking steps of VEGF165 fused with GFP. We showed that like its native form, VEGF165‐GFP forms dimers and gets glycosylated and exerts biological activity tested on HUVEC cells. VEGF165‐GFP secretion follows the endoplasmic reticulum‐Golgi pathway as indicated by the ability of GTP‐locked Sar1 and Arf1 GTPases to completely prevent VEGF secretion. VEGF secretion is relatively insensitive to temperature drops from 37 to 19 ºC and is stimulated by cytoplasmic Ca2+ increases and PKC activators or inhibitors of the mTORC1 pathway. Exocytosis of VEGF165 requires PIP2 at the plasma membrane and a significant fraction of the externalized VEGF remains associated with the plasma membrane in discrete patchy areas. Here we show that EM analysis reveals that a substantial fraction of VEGF is shedding from the cell surface together with matrix components. Overall our results for the first time identify important steps in the trafficking and secretion mechanism of VEGF providing new information that can be explored to devise new strategies for pharmacological intervention of tumor vascularization.
The dark side of protein kinases: FRET toolbox illuminates a hidden conformation in PKC catalysis
Authors: Swanson Carter James , Ritt Mike , Udarasayan Barath , Wang William , Westfall Margaret , Sivaramakrishnan Sivaraj
Published: June 2021

Kinases have been traditionally viewed as binary switches that are activated or inactivated by varied small molecule second messengers, post‐translational modifications, and allosteric regulatory events. However, an emerging view is that kinases function in a fashion analogous to micro‐processors, coupling varied upstream signals to specific downstream effects. Despite the importance of kinases in myriad signaling pathways and processes, contemporary methods and techniques do not allow for in‐depth study of spatial and temporal co‐ordination of the intra‐ and inter‐molecular interactions that regulate kinase function in cells. Here we present a new FRET‐based approach termed the kinase toolbox that was used to dissect the mechanisms of activation and auto‐regulation of protein kinase C (PKC). Utilizing several FRET sensors embedded into PKCα our studies resolved a second active conformation required for catalysis. The nucleotide binding pocket is allosterically linked with the c‐terminal tail of the catalytic domain and binding of ATP or ADP differentially stabilizes this conformation. Additional stabilization of this second state through inter‐molecular interactions modulates kinase activity by enhancing nucleotide exchange, ascribing a necessary function to the new state. The development of the kinase toolbox outlines how similar mechanistic insights may be gleaned from other AGC kinases.
Determination of RhoA GTPase effector proteins in preeclamptic placentas
Authors: Orozco‐Hernández Erika G. , 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 during PE development. It has been shown that the RhoA GTPase is involved in the development of hypertension and vasoconstriction due to may contribute to the etiology of this disorder. These GTPases act as molecular switches interacting with effector proteins to generate cellular responses. Because of their importance and little background presence of RhoA protein in placentas with PE, the main aim of this work is to determinate the localization of RhoA protein and the identification of effectors proteins in cotyledon, vein and artery from umbilical cord. Our results revealed that RhoA is localized mainly in smooth muscle cells of vein and artery, and blood vessels from cotyledon. The expression level was decreased in preeclamptic placenta. This data suggests a possible role of RhoA protein in blood vessels during the hypertension related with PE.
Interleukin‐4 stimulates collagen production through activation of cardiac fibroblasts via interleukin‐4 receptor α
Authors: Peng Hongmei , Carretero Oscar , Yang Xiao‐Ping , Peterson Edward , Rhaleb Nour‐Eddine
Published: June 2021

Elevated interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) levels have been implicated in cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction in heart failure, hypertension, and aging in both experimental animal models and patients. We sought to determine the pharmacological effects of IL‐4 on cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) in vitro and hypothesized that IL‐4 stimulates collagen production through activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) via IL‐4 receptor α (IL‐4Rα). Using primary rat CFs, we found that 1) IL‐4Rα was constitutively expressed by Western blot and immunocytochemical staining, 2) IL‐4 induced phosphorylation of STAT6 (Fig. 1), 3) IL‐4 at 0.6 to 50 ng/mL concentration‐dependently increased collagen production assessed by hydroxyproline assay (Fig. 2), and 4) IL‐4 concentration‐dependently induced cell proliferation. This study implicates that IL‐4 is a potent cytokine that stimulates collagen production, and could represent a therapeutic target for cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction.

Supported by Henry Ford Hospital Institutional Fund A10163 to N.‐E. Rhaleb.
A 2DE‐Tandem MS Simulation with a Structural Interface
Authors: Sekera Emily Rose , Sawyer Aidan , Craig Paul A.
Published: June 2021

2DE‐Tandem MS is a computer program designed for use in the biochemistry, proteomics, or bioinformatics classroom. The program currently contains two simulations ‐ 2D Electrophoresis and Tandem Mass Spectrometry. These integrated simulations are designed to teach the concept of proteome analysis of simple organisms. 2DE‐Tandem MS can be used as a freestanding simulation or in conjunction with a wet lab, to introduce proteomics in the undergraduate classroom, and is freely available at https://sourceforge.net/projects/jbf/. 2DE‐Tandem MS functions in Mac OSX, Windows, and Linux, ensuring that every student sees a consistent and informative GUI no matter the computer platform they choose. Peptide sequences from the Mass Spectrometer can now be displayed in a familiar structural format through the popular freeware program, Marvin Sketch (http://www.chemaxon.com/products/marvin/marvinsketch/).

Planned future applications include Ion Exchange and Reversed Phase Chromatography.
Influence of Protein Intake and Timing on Whole Body Protein Turnover in Middle‐Aged Men and Women
Authors: Colletto Megan , Rodriguez Nancy
Published: June 2021

Meal protein consumption may be more important than total daily protein intake (TPI) in older adults. This study characterized effects of TPI and protein timing on whole body protein turnover (WBPT) in healthy middle‐aged (50–70 y) adults. WBPT (15N glycine method; flux, Q, protein synthesis, PS, and breakdown, PB) was determined following 2 wk diet intervention with TPI at or double the RDA (AP: 0.8, HP: 1.6 g/kg). AP was further grouped by % TPI consumed at meals (even distribution, APE or back loaded at dinner, APD). TPI was estimated from 7 d diet records. Comparisons (mean ± SE) were made between APE, APD and HP. Age and BMI (kg/m2) were similar for APE (n=6, 58 ± 2 y, 24.3 ± 1.0), APD (n=9, 54 ± 2 y, 25.8 ± 1.0) and HP (n=10, 56 ± 2 y, 25.2 ± 1.0). Q (1.23 ± .16 vs .54 ± .07 vs .75 ± .11), PS (6.49 ± .94 vs 2.69 ± .41 vs 3.86 ± .73) and PB (6.57 ± 1.09 vs 2.95 ± .34 vs 3.60 ± .72 p ≤ .02) was higher for HP vs AP but was similar for APE vs APD (p ≥ 0.1). NET balance (PS‐PB) was not different for HP vs AP. NET was lower for APE vs APD (−.26 ± .20 vs .25 ± .20, p = .05). Higher TPI increased WBPT. APD had a positive NET possibly related to a physiologically significant increase in PS (p = 0.1). Although preliminary in nature, the latter finding suggests when TPI approximates the RDA a single protein bolus may beneficially stimulate PS in middle‐aged adults. Caution in applying this information is warranted until findings are validated with the respective stable isotope method.
Change in meat food Consumption Pattern of Korean
Authors: Kim Se‐Na , Shin Woo‐Jung , Lim Seong‐Hee , Ji Su‐Jin , Kim So‐Young , Kim Jung‐Bong , Cho Young‐Suk
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to define change in meat food consumption pattern of Korean from 1995 to 2010. Base on the Korea national Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 1995 to 2010, We compared 1 portion size of frequently consumed meat food. And we calculated nutritional values of portion size, base on the Korea national Food Composition Tables. The results follow as : The kinds of mainly consumed meat food was increased from 27 to 33 kinds. The most frequently consumed meat was beef plate. Beef plate is mainly used to make the gravy that is basis of the Korean cuisine. Consistently consumed meat are Chicken(lean), pork(rib, belly), pork products(ham, bacon, vienna sausages, etc.) and beef(loin, plate, shank, small intestine, blood). The most consumed meat was duck meat with a portion size of 165g(since 1998). In recent years, Korean eat foreleg, loin, neck lean only, shank, ham of pork that are contains less fat.;.
Relationship between self‐rated health and 10‐year coronary heart disease risk among African Americans participating in a life‐style intervention: HUB City Steps
Authors: Connell Carol , Landry Alicia , Mohn Rich , Molaison Elaine , Yadrick Kathy
Published: June 2021

Coronary heart disease (CHD) continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. with African Americans ranking second in CHD prevalence among racial/ethnic groups. Morbidity and mortality have likewise been associated with self‐rated health (SRH). Previous studies have utilized SRH as a predictor of coronary events and/or death. We evaluated the associations between 10 year risk scores for CHD and SRH among a sample of African Americans participating in a lifestyle intervention. CHD risk was calculated for each participant with complete data at baseline (n=267), 3‐(n=223), 6‐(n=190) and 18‐ months (n=167) using sex‐specific algorithms developed by Wilson et al. (1998). A single 5‐point Likert scale item measured SRH (1=excellent). Pearson correlations for SRH and 10‐yr CHD risk score increased at each time point (baseline r=.039; 3‐months r=.092; 6‐months r=.139), but were not significant until 18‐months (r=.194, p=.012). Establishing this relationship in a health disparate population provides opportunity to identify moderators of risk. Further analysis may also help establish SRH as an inexpensive screening tool in community based lifestyle interventions such as HUB City Steps.
The Spontaneous Plants’ Recipes Project for enhancing Mediterranean Diet profile change: A sustainable strategy for obesity prevention in childhood, and for contributing to biodiversity maintenance. An intervention of the Italian Food and Nutrition Public Provincial Service
Authors: Trovato Guglielmo M. , Alonzo Elena , Cacciola Salvatore , Cannizzaro Virginia , La Carrubba Rosanna , Pisana Patrizia , Purrello Agata , Raiti Maria Enza , Fardella Maristella
Published: June 2021

Since 2009 the SIAN is monitoring BMI and dietary habits of 5.220 children, (48.6% males) aged 3–14 years, providing a multi‐sectoral community‐oriented intervention. It was articulated with a core focus on Mediterranean Diet, a proxy of healthy nutrition recommendation. Traditional food and cookery recipes were collected and processed by children. Different types of cultivated and spontaneous plants are still a niche component of Mediterranean dietary profile and wild beet, chard (beta vulgaris), borage, chicory, fennel, cabbages and cardoons are still used in Mediterranean cookery: addressing children to recognizing, collecting, cooking and eating spontaneous plants is a strategic tool supported by the collaboration of teachers, relatives (grandmothers), parents and volunteers. Preliminary results. Initial prevalence of Obesity was 27.6%. At the second year of intervention, a significant drop to 21.27% was already reported with a concurrent increase of Mediterranean Diet Adherence. No such effect was observed by the current educational programs provided nationwide (Italy prevalence: 34.0%). Within the Spontaneous Plants’ Recipes Project at the third year of intervention there is a satisfactory adherence.

Conclusion

This exercise allows a closer approach to natural environment, traditional food, green plants, fresh and cooked, and to a more active daily life, moving children in the countryside.
Stunting at birth: An under‐recognized phenomenon with implications for maternal health and nutrition
Authors: Chomat Anne Marie , Vossenaar Marieke , Ruíz Elena Maria Diaz , Wren Hilary , Koski Kristine G , Scott Marilyn E , Solomons Noel W
Published: June 2021

Background

Measurements of length at birth or in the neonatal period are challenging to obtain and often discounted for lack of standardization and validity. Classical “under‐five” stunting rates derive from surveys on children from 6 to 59 mo of age.

Objective

To assess length‐for‐age (LAZ) within the first 1.5 mo of life among infants from urban (U) and rural (R) sites in the Quetzaltenango Province in the Western Highlands of Guatemala.

Methods

Supine length was measured to the nearest 0.5 cm by standardized anthropometrics on a SECA 210 infantometer. 104 infants (39% F) were enrolled in 8 rural Mam‐speaking R villages at 2–46 d of life. 106 infants (50% F) were recruited at an urban U health clinic at 4–33 d of life. Stunting was defined as ≤2 SD of LAZ in relation to the 2006 WHO growth standards.

Results

In R sites, 100% were indigenous (Mam); in the U site, 27% were of indigenous ascent and 73% non‐indigenous. The median R LAZ was −1.55 and prevalence of stunting was 36.5%; the respective U values were −1.41, and 25.5%. The Pearson correlation coefficient of LAZ vs maternal stature for combined U+R was r=0.202 (n=210, p=0.02).

Conclusion

As linear growth failure in this setting begins in utero, its prevention cannot begin at birth, but must be linked to maternal care strategies during gestation, or even before. Funded by the Nestle Foundation, McGill University, and Graduate Women in Science
Prevalence of malnutrition in infants, young children, and school‐age children in Milot Region, Haiti
Authors: Rollet Michelle , Siew Elaine , Previl Harold , Etienne Nadia , Forrester Janet
Published: June 2021

This cross‐sectional study, conducted May–July 2012, measured underweight, stunting, and acute malnutrition in the Milot region of Haiti. Type and severity of malnutrition were determined using z‐score calculations and WHO international growth standards. Children 0–15 years were recruited, with caregiver consent, through random door‐to‐door field visits in four communities. Anthropometric measurements were taken for all surveyed children, and caregivers were asked questions about the child's health history.

A total of 358 children were measured and surveyed. Among infants and young children, 55% were underweight, 50% were stunted, and 45% were acutely malnourished. Among school‐age children, 50% were underweight, 44% were stunted, and 42% were too thin for their age and height. Two‐thirds (69%) of all children age 0–15 years were affected by at least one type of malnutrition of differing severity (mild, moderate, severe). For children under age 5, 42% of mothers ended exclusive breastfeeding before the recommended 6 months.

This study provides local data that can serve as evidence for informing interventions in the Milot region and nationwide. Reducing high levels of malnutrition requires a multi‐pronged, integrated approach combining effective community outreach and monitoring, inpatient and outpatient nutrition therapy, and partnerships with regional, nutrition‐related organizations.

Grant Funding Source: None
Potential impact of the national food fortification program on adequacy of vitamin A intake among women in Cameroon: simulations using nationally‐representative 24‐hour recall data
Authors: Engle‐Stone Reina , Nankap Martin , Ndjebayi Alex O , Brown Kenneth H
Published: June 2021

The WHO recommends assessing food and nutrient intakes to design food fortification programs, but national‐level dietary data are seldom available in low‐income countries. Prior to initiation of food fortification in Cameroon, we measured intake of vitamin A (VA) and fortifiable foods (oil and sugar) and simulated the effects of fortification with different foods and VA levels on VA intake and dietary inadequacy. 24h recalls were conducted among 912 women (with duplicates in a subset) in a nationally‐representative, cluster survey. Usual intake distributions were estimated by the NCI method. Nationally, the median (25th, 75th percentile) VA intake was 431 (279, 650) μg RAE/d, and 60% of women had usual intakes < 500 μg RAE/d, although the results differed by region (South, 28%; North, 100%; Cities, 52%). 54% of women consumed refined oil, 54% consumed sugar, 73% consumed either and 35% consumed both in the previous 24h. The current fortification level (12 mg VA per kg oil) would decrease the prevalence of inadequate intakes to 36% nationally (South, 19%; North, 64%; Cities, 16%) without affecting the prevalence of intakes >; 3000 μg RAE/d (< 0.5%). Increasing the VA in oil or fortifying a second food (sugar) would further decrease the proportion of women with VA intake < 500 μg RAE/d. Food fortification should substantially improve dietary VA adequacy without increasing the risk of excess intake among women in Cameroon.

Grant Funding Source: Michael and Susan Dell Foundation; Sight & Life
Antenatal care quality and its effect on nutrition interventions
Authors: Phillips Erica Lyn , Pelletier David , Stoltzfus Rebecca , Michaud Lesly , Gracia Lionel
Published: June 2021

Essential nutrition interventions for pregnant women such as iron‐folic acid and calcium supplementation are most frequently delivered through clinic‐based antenatal care (ANC). However, ANC is frequently of poor quality, reducing the impact of these interventions and women's uptake of these services. In order to evaluate ANC quality and describe recipient and provider perspectives of ANC quality, we performed a mixed‐methods study composed of direct observations of ANC consultations (n=999), an exit survey with ANC recipients (n=582) and qualitative interviews with ANC providers (n=20) in central Haiti.

Observation results revealed that few providers deliver ANC in accordance with national or WHO guidelines. When asked to identify components of high‐quality care, ANC providers cited physical measurements, such as blood pressure and uterine height, necessary equipment and nutrition supplements. Few providers identified non‐tangible components such as counseling, education or communication as elements of high‐quality ANC. Consequently, a low proportion of women could state why they received the services they did or were informed of their own lab results. These findings show that ANC providers tend to give less emphasis to information, education and communication, which is likely to limit the effectiveness of nutritional interventions of ANC.
Effect of timed and targeted counseling (ttC) by peer mothers in changing infant and young child feeding practices among mothers of children 0 to 18 months in four districts in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Beyero Mesfin , Reider Kathryn , Mekonnen Yared
Published: June 2021

Objective

To evaluate changes in infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices resulting from peer mother's visits delivering age‐appropriate messages on breast feeding and complementary feeding to mothers of children 0 to 18 months after two years of project implementation.

Methods

The evaluation used a quasi‐experimental study design in four implementation and four control districts. The sample size included 1600 children with 800 mothers interviewed from each of the intervention and control districts i.e. 400 for 0 to 5.9 months and 400 for 6 to 23.9 months group.

Results

Initiation of breast feeding within one hour of birth increased from 65.5% to 75.2% (p<0.05); colostrum feeding increased from 71.2% to 83.0% (p<0.0001); exclusive breast feeding increased from 57.9% to 82.8% (p<0.05) in the intervention areas after adjusting for women's education, age, religion, number of children ever born, and economic status. Minimum dietary diversity increased from 7.2% to 10.0% (p<0.0001); minimum acceptable diet increased from 5.0% to 7.5% (p<0.0001); and stunting has decreased from 32.3% to 29.0%.

Conclusion

Age – appropriate counseling coupled with demonstration on complementary food preparation is an effective way of improving IYCF practices in rural Ethiopia. Dietary diversity remains a challenge and the changes are gradual.

Source of research support:

FHI360 through the Alive & Thrive Project.
Dietary sugars and body weight: systematic review and meta‐analyses of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Morenga Lisa Anne Te , Mann Jim , Mallard Simonette
Published: June 2021

The objective was to summarise the evidence on the association between intake of dietary sugars and body weight in adults and children. Electronic databases were searched for randomised controlled trials published up to December 2011 that reported an effect of total sugars, a component of total sugars or sugar‐containing foods or beverages on a measure of adiposity. Weight loss trials or trials confounded by other medical or lifestyle interventions were excluded. Weight change data were pooled using inverse variance models with random effects. 30 of 7895 RCTs identified in the electronic search met inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis of trials in adults which involved ad libitum reduction of free sugars in the intervention arm compared with the control arm suggested a 0.80kg(95% CI: 0.39, 1.21) lower body weight in those with lower intakes of sugars. Increasing dietary sugars was associated with a comparable weight increase (0.75kg[95% CI: 0.30, 1.19]). Isoenergetic exchanges of dietary sugars with other carbohydrates showed no change in body weight (0.04kg[95% CI: −0.04, 0.13]). Trials in children showed no change in body weight. In free‐living people consuming ad libitum diets, intake of free sugars is a determinant of body weight. The change in adiposity appears to be mediated via changes in energy intakes since isoenergetic exchange of sugars with other carbohydrates is not associated with weight change.
NEEDs for Bones is a tested, effective osteoporosis education intervention for middle school youth
Authors: Lohse Barbara , Mazich Maria
Published: June 2021

NEEDs for Bones (NFB), a 4‐lesson osteoporosis‐prevention curriculum for grades 6–8, was presented to 525 students in SNAP‐Ed eligible PA schools. Students (51% male; 68% 7th grade) were from 29 classes in 2 school districts. On a scale of 1 (least) to 5 (most) learning about calcium in fast foods generated the most interest (3.50 ± 1.2, median 4). Only 8% of students expressed disinterest in all lessons and 51% were very interested in at least 2 lessons. Girls were interested in more lessons than boys (1.9 ± 1.5 vs. 1.6 ± 1.4; P=.03), especially lessons on fast food and convenience store calcium sources. Tasting experiences included refried beans, vanilla soymilk, sunflower seeds, calcium‐fortified juice, and Swiss cheese. Only 14% had tasted all foods, 6% hadn't eaten any, and 2 to 4 foods were novel for 61% of students. Over 45% of the students had not yet tasted the calcium‐fortified juice, soymilk, or refried beans. Gender differences in tasting history or response were not significant. Compared to girls, boy were more relaxed about eating (P=.02), tending toward a higher eating attitude score (P=.07). Cluster analyses revealed gender, rather than tasting experience, lesson interest, or eating attitude, was the greater cluster predictor. Students learned calcium food sources, weight bearing activities, and calcium‐related diseases, supporting NFB as a strong option for osteoporosis prevention education. USDA Funding
Instrument testing of behavior change questionnaires for the PAWS Club: peer‐education about weight steadiness study
Authors: Nelson Sarah Ann , Corbin Marilyn A. , Nickols‐Richardson Sharon M.
Published: June 2021

Behavior change models guide nutrition education efforts by identifying psychosocial mediators of obesity‐related behavior change. A peer nutrition education program, the PAWS Club, will assess mediators of behavior change among youth (ages 11–14 y) and their parents using questionnaires grounded in Social Cognitive Theory. Questionnaires will assess social/family support, self‐efficacy, self‐regulation and outcome expectations for balancing calories to manage body weight, reducing certain foods and food components, increasing selected foods and nutrients and building healthy eating patterns. Methods for instrument testing of questionnaires before formal administration to study participants enrolled in the PAWS Club study will be described. Questionnaires will be distributed to 6th and 7th grade students and their parents at two time points within a one‐week period. Internal consistency of social/family support, self‐efficacy, self‐regulation and outcome expectation sections will be assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Spearman correlation coefficients for test‐retest reliability between time 1 and time 2 for each item will be calculated to assess internal reliability. Findings will be used to modify questionnaires before formal administration in the PAWS Club study.
Postpartum changes in the endocannabinoid metabolome of human breast milk
Authors: Wood JodiAnne T. , Durham Holiday A. , Vadivel Subramanian K. , Makriyannis Alexandros , Lammi‐Keefe Carol J.
Published: June 2021

The endocannabinoid system, made up of receptors, enzymes and endogenous ligands, plays a diverse role in reproductive health and central nervous system development, function and protection. Human breast milk has detectable levels of specific endocannabinoids which stimulate the suckle reflex in the baby's brain promoting feeding. Our motivation for this work is to characterize the endocannabinoid metabolome in human milk and explore how the post‐partum period (2, 6, 10 weeks) modulates the metabolome in breastmilk from women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Using mass spectrometry, the fatty acid esters and their corresponding glycerols are easily detected in 50 μL of human milk. The ethanolamides are present in lower concentrations and require a larger milk sample for detection. Two‐way ANOVA treatment of our results demonstrates a decrease in arachidonoylglycerol (AG), eicosapentaenoylglycerol (EPG) and eicosanoylglycerol (EG) over the 10 weeks post‐partum. Oleoylglycerol (OG) peaked at 6 weeks postpartum and then declined. Additionally, endocannabinoids in milk samples from healthy women and women who were diagnosed with GDM behaved similarly. This study provides an opportunity for exploring and understanding the mechanism by which endocannabinoids are regulated in human milk.
Short‐chain milk oligosaccharide levels in human milk and infant plasma
Authors: Radzanowski Gwendolyn G. , Garrett Philip N. , Li Xi , Anita M
Published: June 2021

A complex mixture of oligosaccharides comprises approximately 3–19 g/L in human milk. These human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are thought to play myriad roles in host defense, immunity and potentially neurodevelopment. However, little is known about the relationship between dietary intake of HMO and plasma concentrations of HMO. Short‐chain milk oligosaccharides were quantified in human milk and infant plasma from a total of 55 mother‐infant dyads representing three countries: the Philippines, Oman, and Mexico. Concentrations of 3′sialyllactose (3′SL), 6′sialyllactose (6′SL), 2′fucosyllactose (2′FL) and 3 fucosyllactose (3FL) were determined by HPAEC and LC‐MS/MS. Concentration ranges were determined in human milk (3′SL: 54.3–225 mg/L, 6′SL: 29.3–726 mg/L, 2′FL: 0–3.8 g/L and 3FL: 0.04–1.10 g/L) and infant plasma (3′SL: 0.10–0.78 mg/L, 6′SL: 0.05–0.68 mg/L, 2′FL: 0–2.25 g/L). Regional differences were observed between levels of 2′FL and 3FL in the milk samples. Infant plasma 3′SL was weakly correlated and 6′SL was strongly correlated to mother's milk content. A moderately strong positive correlation was seen between 2′FL in breast milk and plasma samples. These data suggest concentration of HMO in mother's milk can impact plasma levels of HMO in breastfed infants.
Assessment of overweight and obesity in patients receiving psychopharmacological placed in long‐stay units (1A and 1B) from Psychiatric Hospital “Dr. Samuel Ramirez Moreno “
Authors: Zamarripa Carlos Alberto Jiménez , Rodríguez Marco Antonio Estrada , Luna Oscar Meneses , Muñoz Marlen Gómez , García Carlos Rivera , Mendoza Claudia Camelia Calzada
Published: June 2021

Introduction

It is well known that patients with severe mental illness often have metabolic alterations and therefore can develop co‐morbidities, which reduce their life expectancy compared with general population. In addition, they intake drugs that induce overweight and obesity, which is a risk factor for diseases such as metabolic syndrome.

Objective

Identify the association between overweight and obesity with consumption of psychotropic drugs in patients in long‐stay units (1A and 1B) from Psychiatric Hospital “Dr. Samuel Ramirez Moreno”.

Results

17.8% and 8.3% of patients had obesity in units 1A and 1B, respectively. Additionally, the BMI was similar in both groups and there was no relationship between BMI and number of psychotropic drugs consumed. Before indicates that dietary management is effective in the control BMI of patients, despite having predisposing factor to obesogenics psychoactive drugs, suggesting lower risk of developing co‐morbidities.

Conclusions

Psychiatric patients units 1A and 1B, have an incidence of overweight and obesity lower than the national average.
Hedyotis diffusa Ameliorates fatty liver in mice fed a high‐fat and high‐sucrose diet
Authors: Kang Min‐Jung , Kim Jung‐In
Published: June 2021

Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver. The purpose of this study is to examine effect of Hedyotis diffusa on hepatic steatosis in C57BL/6 mice with diet‐induced obesity. Four‐week‐old C57BL/6 mice (n=21) were divided in to three groups after 1 week of adaptation period. The animals were fed AIN‐93G diet (Normal group, NC group), a high‐fat and high‐sucrose diet (35% fat and 25% sucrose, HFHS group), or HFHS diet containing 1 % ethanol extract of Hedyotis diffusa (HFHS‐HD group) for 12 weeks. Serum adiponectin levels were measured by ELISA. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities were measured. Hepatic lipids were extracted and triglyceride and cholesterol levels were measured. Hedyotis diffusa significantly decreased body weight compared with HFHS group (p<0.05). Serum adiponectin levels of HFHS‐HD group were significantly higher than those of HFHS group. Serum ALT and AST activities of HFHS‐HD group were significantly lower than HFHS group. Hepatic triglyceride and cholesterol levels were significantly reduced by consumption of Hedyotis diffusa compared with HFHS group. Thus we conclude that Hedyotis diffusa could be beneficial in improving hepatic steatosis in C57BL/6 mice fed a HFHS diet. This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2010–0011980).
Obesity and insulin resistance, risk factors for gingivitis in children?
Authors: Friedman Silvia , Casavalle Patricia , Gonzales Chaves Maria M. , Antona Maria E. , Lifshitz Fima , Rodriguez Patricia
Published: June 2021

Insulin resistance (IR) may be present in overweight/obesity (O/O). Obesity and periodontitis were studied in adults. Our aim was to evaluate whether IR in (O/O) children was associated with gingivitis. A cross‐sectional, prospective, observational, descriptive and a comparison study of independent samples were undertaken. Thirty‐four children between 8–14 years of age with diagnosis of O/O attending the Pediatrics Section of Buenos Aires Hospital, were included. Based on HOMA, children were grouped according to HOMA>;2.5 (IR) and below it was non IR (NIR). Plaque index (IP) (Silness‐Loe,1964), gingival index (GI) (Loe‐Silness,1963) and bleeding on probing (BoP) (Muhlemann, 1975), were recorded. Fischer‐test, p<0.05.

Results

HOMA>;2.5 was found in 50% O/O children. In IR, PI=57.2%(28.8–82.3) vs. 42.8 % (17.6–71.1)(p=0.728), GI=54.8%(36.0–72.6)vs. 45.2%(27.4–63.9)(p=0.227) and BoP=70.6%(41.0–86.7)vs. 29.4%(10.3–56.0)(p=0.038). These results suggest a high prevalence of IR in O/O children, associated with oral manifestations. New studies will be designed to establish whether the progression of gingivitis in IR children is favored by the systemic disease. Awarded by UBACyT 20020100100613 & CO02.