bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum vitamin D levels in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with or without non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Authors: Goktas Zeynep , Atilgan Zeynep Tugba Donmez
Published: November 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has an increasing prevalence in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Although PCOS is considered as a reproductive disorder, it is also a metabolic disorder due to its involvement in insulin resistance. Obesity and insulin resistance are the main factors related to NAFLD in PCOS.

The purpose of this study was to assess NAFLD status in PCOS and analyze vitamin D serum levels in fertile individuals diagnosed with PCOS. A total of 68 female subjects, between the ages of 18 to 38, were recruited to the study. All the subjects were diagnosed with PCOS according to 2003 Rotterdam Revised Consensus by a gynecologist. A questionnaire evaluating general characteristics, physical activity and nutritional habits was administered by a trained dietitian. Abdominal ultrasonography was administered by a radiologist for NAFLD diagnosis. Blood samples were collected. Elecsys® Vitamin D total kits (Roche, Switzerland) were used to analyze the serum vitamin D levels.

A total of 35 subjects (48.5%) was diagnosed with NAFLD. Mean serum vitamin D level was deficient at 11.7 ± 5.57 ng/mL however, vitamin D levels were not significantly different between subjects without NAFLD and subjects with NAFLD (10.5 ± 5.74 ng/mL and 13.0 ± 5.17 ng/mL, respectively, p>0.05). Mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 31.8 ± 6.07 kg/m2 and BMI was significantly higher among subjects with NAFLD than subjects without NAFLD (34.9 ± 5.45 kg/m2 and 28.9 ± 5.13 kg/m2, respectively, p<0.001). Serum vitamin D levels did not significantly differ among subjects with normal vitamin D levels, subjects with insufficient vitamin D levels and subjects with deficient vitamin D levels. In this study, vitamin D level is observed to be <20ng/mL in 91.6% of the individuals having PCOS.

NAFLD and vitamin D insufficiency seem to be common disorders among individuals with PCOS. Individuals with PCOS should be examined in terms of NAFLD and serum vitamin D levels.
The analysis of protein consumption patterns in patients with SIBO
Authors: Isakov Vasily , Pilipenko Vladimir , Vlasova Alina
Published: November 2023

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is common in patients with gastrointestinal diseases. SIBO symptoms are improved with antimicrobial treatment, but recurrence rate is high (approximately 40%). Dietary modification is essential for prevention of recurrence of SIBO however there are no detailed studies of nutrition in SIBO patients. Protein consumption is considered important for SIBO, as the proteins from animal source are essential for growth of CH4/H2‐producing microorganisms.

The aim of the study was to assess the protein consumption patterns in patients with different types of SIBO.

Three‐day food diary was collected from 574 patients, undergoing CH4/H2 lactulose breath test. The photographs used to estimate the size of the portions eaten. According to food composition and portion all dishes in food diary were converted into constituent products by food groups. Each food group were compared with the normal levels of a healthy diet pyramid based on daily calories (normal value = 1.0). According to the breath test results the patients were divided into 4 subgroups of different SIBO types (H2, CH4, H2 and CH4) and a subgroup with no signs of SIBO (Tab. 1).

All types SIBO patients consumed less meat than control (no signs of SIBO), however patients with hyperproduction of CH4 only demonstrated highest consumption of fish, and it was a trend in patients with isolated H2‐hyperproduction to consume more poultry than other groups. There were no differences between groups in consumption of processed meat foods or eggs.

In conclusion, there are specific animal protein consumption patterns related to the type of the SIBO, which can be used for the planning of dietetic interventions in patients for prevention of SIBO recurrence.

Consumption of protein products in SIBO patients.

Food
No SIBOn=65
H2 SIBO (> 20ppM) n=312
CH4 SIBO (> 12ppM) n = 77
H2/CH4 SIBOn = 123
Significance

Meat
0.58±0.71
0.37±0.58
0.42±0.67
0.31±0.45
p=0.015 no SIBO vs H2 SIBO;p=0.017 no SIBO vs H2/CH4 SIBO;p=0.059 no SIBO vs CH4 SIBO

Poultry
0.38±0.49
0.52±0.63
0.41±0.50
0.39±0.48
p=0.074 H2 SIBO vs H2/CH4 SIBO

Eggs
0.11±0.19
0.14±0.22
0.13±0.21
0.10±0.17
NS

Fish
0.27±0.37
0.22±0.43
0.56±0.75
0.33±0.77
p=0.001 CH4 SIBO vs H2 SIBO;p=0.004 CH4 SIBO vs H2/CH4 SIBO;p= 0.024 CH4 SIBO vs No SIBO

Processed meat products (sausages, etc)
0.08±0.11
0.12±0.14
0.07±0.11
0.08±0.12
NS
Anti‐inflammatory effects of Pleurotus eryngii (mushroom) in the colon: role of gut microbiota
Authors: Yuan Biao , Gu Min , Han Yanhui , Ma Gaoxing , Hu Qiuhui , Xiao Hang
Published: November 2023

For many centuries, edible mushrooms have been used as functional and medicinal foods for various health benefits around the world. In this study, the protective effects of Pleurotus eryngii mushroom against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were determined in the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐treated mice. Dietary administration of freeze‐dried mushroom powder alleviated colonic inflammation induced by DSS in mice, which was evidenced by decreased disease index, increased colon length, and reduced production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in the colonic tissues. Sequencing the V3–V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA genes of microbiota demonstrated that DSS treatment significantly altered the composition of fecal microbiota, which correlated with exacerbated colonic inflammation in DSS‐treated mice. Interestingly, dietary treatment with mushroom partially reversed the alteration of fecal microbiota induced by DSS treatment. Furthermore, the levels of short chain fatty acids and antioxidant capacity of colonic contents were significantly increased by dietary P. eryngii mushroom in DSS‐treated mice. Overall, our results for the first time demonstrated anti‐inflammatory effects of P. eryngii mushroom in the colon, and their association with altered gut microbiota.

Support or Funding Information

This research work was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No. 31471927.
Liver steatosis and redox status alterations in obese Zucker rats
Authors: Melnyk Stepan , Korourian Soheila , Evans Teresa , Pavliv Oleksandra , Hakkak Reza
Published: November 2023

Obesity in the United States and other developed countries has been at epidemic proportions for more than two decades and continues to grow. The obese population has high comorbidity and mortality rates due to a variety of chronic diseases including cancer. The development of liver steatosis is a common consequence. This disease, ranging from simple hepatic steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to cirrhosis, is a major health problem in the USA and worldwide. The negative effect of liver steatosis is recognized by its significant impact on the metabolic profile in humans. Our previous results demonstrated that obesity in Zucker rats was accompanied with an increase of oxidative and nitrosative stress in liver, perturbation of methylation (SAM/SAH) ratio and significant morphological changes in liver: increase in fatty steatosis to small foci of mononuclear infiltration. However, metabolic details that are leading to these changes in liver of obese rats are less known. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the possible mechanisms that create such metabolic abnormalities. After one week of acclimation, six‐week old female lean (n=26) and obese (n=20) Zucker rats were fed AIN‐93 G diet and sacrificed 155 days later. Liver samples were snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at −80° C until later. We used high sensitivity HPLC‐ECD and LC‐MS methods to assess the metabolic profile related to the methionine cycle and oxidative and nitrosative stress. Our results show that obese rats had significantly higher levels of essential amino acid Methionine (P<0.0001) and free Homocysteine (P<0.01) but lover level of free Cysteine (P<0.01) compared to lean rats. In contrast, the Cystine (oxidized Cysteine) and the Cystine/Cysteine (oxidative stress ratio), was significantly higher in obese rats (P <0.01 and P<0.001 respectfully) compared to lean rats. Additionally, obesity caused a significant (P<0.01) drop in liver HADPH/HADP ratio (redox ratio) and significant (P<0.02) drop in fHomocysteine/Methylation (methylation ratio). In summary, higher levels of oxidative/nitrosative stress in the liver of obese Zucker rats are the results of complex metabolic processes which include decreased levels of free reduced Cysteine as rate limiting amino acid in de‐novo Glutathione (GSH) synthesis; decreased reduction capacity (NADPH/NADP ratio) in liver what leads to lower rate of free Glutathione restoration from oxidized form (GSSG); increased intracellularly level of oxidized (GSSG, Cystine) products; reduction of methylation reactions activities (Homocysteine/Methionine ratio).

Support or Funding Information

Arkansas Biosicence Institute to RH and SM.
Voice in Digital Education: The Impact of Instructor's Perceived Gender & Age on Student Learning & Evaluation
Authors: Weinkle Laura J , Lee Lisa MJ
Published: November 2023

Studies demonstrate that students' implicit gender and age bias strongly influences how they evaluate instructors based on in‐class interactions. Instructors perceived to deviate from conventional gender and age roles can receive lower evaluation ratings and more negative feedback. Instructor positions require leadership and authority, traditionally male‐oriented behavior traits. Consequently, when female instructors exhibit such traits, their evaluations are often negatively impacted. Students' implicit bias also extends into digital environments. In a recent study, dental students were reported to evaluate digital resources and instructors differently based on perceived vocal characteristics, in spite of positive learning outcomes. As digital resources have become integral to many educational environments, and commonly feature only audio cues from instructors, it is imperative to investigate the impact of implicit bias in evaluations of digital resources and instructors. This study aimed to assess the impact of this phenomenon in undergraduate and graduate science education. Undergraduate and graduate students in human anatomy courses were randomly assigned to view one of five online tutorials. Four of the five tutorials featured identical spinal cord anatomy content, but were narrated by individuals of different gender and age. One tutorial was a control video, featuring visual origami instructions without audio. Learning outcomes were measured by prequiz vs. postquiz comparison across the five groups. Participants completed an evaluation of the tutorial and instructor and the results were analyzed and compared across the five groups. Results demonstrated a statistically significant increase in postquiz performance in the four experimental groups compared to the control. The increased learning outcome was not significantly different across the four experimental groups, suggesting that learning occurred regardless of the gender and age of the narrator. Qualitative survey of the resource revealed no significant difference in overall rating across the four experimental tutorials. Nonetheless, the experimental tutorials were consistently rated higher than the control tutorial. Narrators of the experimental tutorials were evaluated significantly higher than the instructor of the control video. For instructor survey items such as approachability, acceptance, inclusiveness and caring of student learning, younger male and younger female narrators received higher ratings than the older narrators. As the role of digital resources becomes increasingly important, the results of this study may have important implications in the future landscape of education and the educator work force model.
Weight Loss and Self‐Efficacy in Obese/Overweight Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease in a Lifestyle Intervention Pilot Study
Authors: Woolf Kathleen , Ganguzza Lisa , Pompeii Mary Lou , Hu Lu , St‐Jules David E. , Jagannathan Ram , Goldfarb David , Katz Stuart , Mattoo Aditya , Li Huilin , Sevick Mary Ann
Published: November 2023

Background

Patients with nutrition‐related chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), benefit from counseling from registered dietitians (RDs). However, in‐person counseling approaches can be inconvenient and expensive, making them difficult to implement and maintain. Technology‐based methods of remote contact provide patients with accessible and inexpensive opportunities to reduce disease risks.

Objective

This pilot study examined differences in weight loss and self‐efficacy after 6 months in a remotely‐delivered lifestyle intervention.

Methods

Participants were randomized to an intensive Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)‐based lifestyle intervention (n=7) or a standard behavior treatment (SBT) group (n=7). The intervention group was provided with an iPad to participate in SCT‐based live WebEx sessions with an RD, access to MyNetDiary (an online tool to log dietary intake, exercise, and body weight), and email feedback from an RD weekly for the first month and biweekly thereafter. Height and weight were measured at baseline and 6 months. The Weight Efficacy Lifestyle (WEL) and Self‐Efficacy for Exercise (SEE) questionnaires were completed by participants at baseline and 6 months. The Mann‐Whitney U Test examined differences in percent weight loss and percent change in self‐efficacy scores (baseline, 6 months). Because of the small sample size, the Last Observation Carried Forward method was used to handle missing data.

Results

The participants were predominantly white (71.4%), male (71.4%) and currently or living as married (57.1%) with a mean age of 65.9±9.7 years and body mass index 34.8±5.4 kg/m2. At 6 months, the intervention group had a significantly greater percent weight loss (median = 3.7%, n=7) than the SBT group (median = 0%, n=7), U = 6.0, z=−2.42, and p=0.016, with a large effect size (r=0.65). No significant differences were noted in percent change for the WEL and SEE scores (WEL median = 0%, n=7, p=0.883; SEE median = 0%, n=7, p=0.472).

Conclusion

At 6 months, the intervention group demonstrated significantly greater weight loss. While improvements in self‐efficacy were observed for some participants, no differences were noted overall due to this small sample. These results support the development and implementation of technology‐based programs for patients with T2D and CKD. Additional research is required to determine the role of the SCT‐based counseling methods.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by NIH K24 NR012226 and NIH R01 DK100492 (PI MA Sevick)
The Effect of Different High Fat Diets on Plasma Concentration and Hepatic Expression of Retinol‐Binding Protein 4 in Rats
Authors: Brown Jo Ann , Russell Kate , Thomas Kadeem , Axen Kenneth , Axen Kathleen
Published: November 2023

Retinol‐binding protein 4 (RBP4) has been associated with insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. Production of hepatic insulin resistance by high‐fat diets depends on their fatty acid composition. Here, the effect of three high‐fat diets on plasma concentration and hepatic expression of RBP4 (Rbp4) was compared with respect to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis.

Weight‐matched groups (N=10/group) of male Sprague‐Dawley rats received one of four diets for eight weeks: low‐fat control (LF, 15% kcal as fat), or a high‐fat (HF, 55% kcal as fat) safflower oil (polyunsaturated), olive oil (cis‐monounsaturated, MUFA) or a trans‐fat (trans‐MUFA) diet. Blood samples were collected as a time course study at wks 3, 6, and 9 (N=16), and after an eight‐week feeding in the fasted or refed (fat‐free, high carbohydrate meal) state (N=40). Liver samples were collected at wk 9 in the fasted or refed state to compare plasma concentration and hepatic expression of RBP4 (Rbp4) and its response to insulin. Plasma RBP4 concentrations were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hepatic expression of Rbp4 and other genes (e.g. Srebf, Fasn) was measured by real‐time PCR.

Body weights and percent body fat of all HF groups were similar at wk 9. Plasma RBP4 concentrations were higher in the trans‐fat vs. the LF group at wk 3, 6, and 9 (p< 0.05). The olive oil and the trans‐fat group had elevated plasma RBP4 at wk 9 vs. the LF group (p<0.05). Liver expression of Rbp4 under fasted or re‐fed conditions did not differ among the groups, a finding consistent with a non‐hepatic (e.g. adipose tissue) source of RBP4. The olive oil group had higher fasting plasma insulin levels (p<0.05), higher HOMA‐IR values (p<0.005), higher liver lipid concentration (p < 0.05) vs. other groups. Expression of hepatic genes in the lipogenic pathway was positively correlated with plasma triglyceride levels in both the olive oil and trans‐fat groups (p< 0.05), and the olive oil group had greater stimulation of lipogenic gene expression by refeeding than did other groups (p<0.05). The HF safflower group did not show differences from the LF group at wk 9.

The HF olive oil (cis‐MUFA) diet was associated with elevated plasma RBP4, hyperinsulinemia, hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance, as well as an enhanced hepatic expression of lipogenic genes. The HF trans‐fat (trans‐MUFA) diet was also associated with elevated plasma RBP4 and increased lipogenic gene expression, and both MUFA groups showed this expression to be correlated with plasma triglyceride levels. These findings show that HF diet‐induced increases in RBP4 are dependent on the type of fat and suggest that non‐hepatic RBP4 may promote hepatic expression of lipogenic genes.
Omega‐3‐Fatty Acids Hold Therapeutic Potential for the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Maciejewski J. Claire , Harris Matthew P. , Schaller Megan L. , Umbaugh David S. , Sandoval Karin E. , Witt Ken A. , Wooten Joshua S. , Guilford Brianne L.
Published: November 2023

Diabetic neuropathy is a debilitating complication of diabetes, affecting over 50% of diabetic patients. Overweight humans display manifestations of diabetic neuropathy before developing overt diabetes and mice fed a high fat diet exhibit signs of neuropathy including mechanical hindpaw hypersensitivity and neuronal inflammation, suggesting diet‐induced inflammation may play a role in the development of neuropathy. Omega‐3 fatty acids have anti‐inflammatory properties and may hold therapeutic potential as a preventative treatment for prediabetic and diabetic patients at risk for neuropathy.

PURPOSE

Investigate the impact of diet composition on signs of neuropathy. We hypothesized that a diet rich in omega‐3 fatty acids would attenuate hindpaw hypersensitivity during prolonged feeding of a high fat diet.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were randomized into four diet groups (n = 12/group) for 32 weeks: 10% low fat‐fish oil (LFFO), 41% high fat‐fish oil (HFFO), 10% low fat‐lard (LFL), or 41% high fat‐lard (HFL). Neuropathy was characterized at baseline and every other week thereafter using the von Frey behavioral test for hindpaw mechanical sensitivity. A glucose tolerance test was performed at end study, and total area under the curve (AUC) was calculated using the trapezoidal method.

RESULTS

At end study, body weight was greater in HFL compared to all other groups. Body weight was also greater in HFFO compared to LFFO. Fasting glucose and glucose AUC were higher in HFL compared to LFFO and HFFO. Following the same pattern as body weight, fasting glucose was higher in HFFO compared to LFFO. Although percent paw withdrawal was greater in HFL compared to HFFO and LFFO, there were no significant differences for LF vs. HF for fish oil or lard.

CONCLUSION

A HFL diet induced signs of neuropathy including hindpaw hypersensitivity, whereas a fish oil diet was protective against hindpaw hypersensitivity. Moreover, omega‐3 fatty acids may hold therapeutic potential for neuropathy prevention in nondiabetic and diabetic patients.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by NIH R21NS090282‐01

End Study Values (32 wks)
Low Fat Fish Oil (LFFO)
High Fat Fish Oil (HFFO)
Low Fat Lard (LFL)
High Fat Lard (HFL)

Body weight (g)
34.3 ± 0.6
39.5 ± 1.6a
37.2 ± 1.1
44.3 ± 1.7a,b,c

Fasting glucose (mg/dl)
129.1 ± 5.6
152.0 ± 7.7a
148.1 ± 5.2
158.8 ± 8.8a

Glucose AUC total (mg/120 min/dl)
5368.1 ± 678.9
7282.6 ± 1144.4
7384.3 ± 685.4
9149.6 ± 1013.8a

Percent paw withdrawal (%)
22.5 ± 4.5
29.2 ± 6.4
37.5 ± 7.2
54.2 ± 5.7a,b

P < 0.05 vs. LFFO;

P < 0.05 vs. HFFO; and

P < 0.05 vs. LFL
Fatty Acids and Desaturase Enzyme Estimates are Associated with Growth Stunting in 2‐to‐6 Year Old Northern Ghanaian Children: A Cross‐sectional Study
Authors: Adjepong Mary , Yakah William , Jain Raghav , Harris William , Annan Reginald Adjetey , Fenton Jenifer
Published: November 2023

In Ghana, 19% of all children below five years of age are stunted, but there are important regional differences. In Northern Ghana, 33% of children are stunted due to economic disparities in the country. Further, growth stunting is still prevalent even with interventions including vitamin and mineral supplementation. Few studies have focused on the association of fatty acids (FA) and growth stunting, yet FA are critical for growth and development. We recently reported that essential fatty acid deficiency was prevalent in Tanzania and associated with growth. However, whole blood FA levels in Ghanaian children and their relationship with growth parameters are poorly described. The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to determine association between both whole blood FAs and FA‐based estimates of desaturase enzyme activities and growth parameters in Ghanaian children 2–6 years of age. A total of 313 children from 5 communities in Savelugu‐Nanton municipality were recruited for this study. A drop of blood was collected on an antioxidant treated card and analyzed for FAs as a % of total whole blood FA levels (OmegaQuant Analytics). Weight and height were measured and z‐scores were calculated. In addition, malaria status and hemoglobin levels were assessed. Relationships between FAs and growth parameters were analyzed by linear regression and Pearson correlation. We found that 29.7% of the children were stunted, and 8% were essential FA deficient (Triene/Tetraene ratio > 0.02). Height‐for‐age z‐score (HAZ) was positively associated with arachidonic acid (AA, p=0.0001), di‐homo gamma linolenic acid (DGLA, p=0.03), docosatetraenoic acid (DTA, p=0.002) and delta‐6‐desaturase (D6D, p=0.008). HAZ was inversely associated with stearyl CoA desaturases [SCD n‐7 (p=0.05) and SCD n‐9 (p=0.03)]. Weight‐for‐age was positively associated with AA (p=0.05), DGLA (p=0.03) and DTA (p=0.002). HAZ was inversely correlated with oleic acid (−0.113, p<0.05), total monounsaturated FAs (MUFA, −0.0124, p<0.03) and total n‐9 (−0.112, p<0.05). In conclusion, since total MUFA, total n‐9 FAs, and several other FAs were associated with growth, increasing intakes of these FAs in this population may be a strategy to curb stunting. Further, FA desaturase (D6D and D5D) enzyme estimates responsible FA conversion increased with increasing stunting levels. More studies are needed to ascertain the association of FA biomarkers and FA intakes with growth.

Support or Funding Information

Borlaug Higher Education Agricultural and Research Development (BHEARD) and Borlaug Leadership Enhancement and Agriculture Program (Borlaug LEAP)
Whole Blood Saturated Fatty Acids Are Negatively Associated with Executive Function in 2 to 6‐Year‐Old Ghanaian Children
Authors: Yakah William , Adjepong Mary , Annan Reginald , Pontifex Matthew , Fenton Jenifer
Published: November 2023

Several studies demonstrate the importance of fatty acids (FAs), in particular essential FAs and the long chain polyunsaturated FA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on overall cognitive function and brain development. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between whole‐blood FAs and executive function in children from Northern Ghana. A total of 313, 2 to 6‐year‐old children attempted four levels of the dimensional change card sort (DCCS) tasks to assess executive function, and dried blood spot samples were analyzed for FA content by OmegaQuant (Sioux Falls, SD). Associations between executive function and whole blood FA levels were determined by regression analysis using SPSS. 49% (160/313) of children who could not pass the first test were considered to have failed, while 51% (153/313) passed one or more levels. 54% of children who passed were males (82/153) while 46% (71/153) were females. Of the children who passed the first test, 56% (86/153) passed all levels of the DCCS. The highest pass rate was in 5–5.5 year‐olds, with 67% passing all test levels. Significant differences in mean % total whole blood fatty acids were observed when comparing children who failed the first DCCS test to those who passed. In those children who passed, the omega‐3 index (p=0.03), DHA (p=0.01), and total omega‐6 (p=0.009) were significantly higher. Compared to children who failed the first DCCS test, children who passed had significantly lower total saturated fatty acids (p=0.02), palmitic (p=0.001), myristic (p=0.002) and lower T/T ratio (p=0.03). Mean whole‐blood levels of essential FAs, linoleic and □‐linoleic acids, were not significantly different between the groups. In a regression analysis controlling for malaria and hemoglobin, DHA (□=0.28, p=0.08), total omega‐6 (β=0.09, p=0.02) and dihomo gamma‐linolenic acid (β=1.16, p=0.003) remained positively associated with DCCS performance. Whole blood levels of total saturated FA (□=−0.18, p=0.03), arachidic (□=−3.22, p=0.03), palmitic (□=−0.14, p=0.01), and myristic acid (□=−1,94, p=0.02) were negatively associated with executive function, while the trans FA palmitelaidic acid (□=−8.41, p=0.03) had the strongest negative association with performance. In this population, children were more likely to pass the DCCS test of executive function if the had higher blood levels of DHA and total n‐6 and lower levels of SFA's. These results suggest that low omega‐3 intake and higher saturated FA intake are associated with poorer performance on DCCS tests. Previously, our laboratory has shown that higher blood SFA was associated with poorer DCCS performace in Tanzanian children. Further research is needed to investigate the role of SFA and cognitive development in children.

Support or Funding Information

BHEARD (Borlaug Higher Education Agricultural and Research Development) and Borlaug Leadership Enhancement and Agriculture Program (Borlaug LEAP).
Effectiveness of an Eight Week Pecan Intervention Improving Lipid Panels in Individuals with Pre‐Diabetes
Authors: Brannan Rebecca , Huebner Grace , Swope Dana , McCormick Samuel , Gibson Karen , Morgan‐Bathke Maria
Published: November 2023

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus has become an epidemic among Americans in both adulthood and childhood. Previous research studies have shown the effectiveness of monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) in controlling blood glucose levels in individuals with pre‐diabetes as well as improving the overall lipid panel of these individuals.

Pecans were chosen as the source of MUFAs for this pilot study that measured the effectiveness of pecans in improving lipid panels and blood glucose values in individuals with pre‐diabetes.

A total of ten participants were recruited for the study; four in the control group and six in the pecan intervention group.

For baseline measurements, all participants were screened for a full blood lipid panel and fasting blood glucose reading. Control participants were instructed to continue following their usual diet and intervention participants were instructed to consume 1.5 oz of pecans daily between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

At the end of the eight‐week intervention, all of the participants returned to complete the fasting blood glucose and lipid panel readings.

At baseline, results for the control group were: total cholesterol: 208.25 mg/dL±23.08; HDL 44 mg/dL ± 20.8; LDL 139.5 mg/dL ± 4.56; VLDL 17.25 mg/dL ± 2.76; triglycerides 126.75 mg/dL ±14.27; and glucose 92.5 mg/dL ± 2.96. For the pecan group: Total Cholesterol: 215.33 mg/dL ± 24.53; HDL 55 mg/dL ± 12.01; LDL 136 mg/dL ±17.93; VLDL 24.3 mg/dL ± 9.56; triglycerides 105.5 mg/dL ± 12.00; and glucose 105.17 mg/dL ± 12.14. There were no significant differences between the two groups.

Post‐dietary intervention control group measurements were: total cholesterol: 222 md/dL ± 32.13; HDL: 51.8 mg/dL ±13.35; LDL: 142.5 mg/dL ± 23.56; VLDL: 27.8 mg/dL ± 8.22; triglycerides: 138.5 mg/dL ± 13.38; and glucose: 95 mg/dL± 6.89. The experimental group averages were: total cholesterol: 208.25 mg/dL ± 27.19; HDL: 58.75 mg/dL ± 6.74; LDL: 134.81 mg/dL ± 23.05; VLDL: 28.25 mg/dL ± 11.57; triglycerides: 176.25 mg/dL± 48.03; and glucose of 111.5 mg/dL ±14.34. There were no significant differences between the groups. There was also no difference in the values between the pre‐experiment baseline data and the post‐experiment end point data for the experimental (pecan) group.

Although the results were not what we hypothesized it lays the corner stone for future research. Further analysis into the dietary intake of our participants will be crucial to determine if perhaps, the monounsaturated fats in the pecans is not enough to counteract a regularly poor dietary intake. In addition, it may be that eight weeks is not sufficient time for MUFAs to improve an individual's lipid panel or blood glucose values.

Support or Funding Information

Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Viterbo University

Charles D. Gelatt Endowment Fund

Texas Pecan Grower Association
Effect of melatonin treatment on AKT1 and P38 protein kinases expression in thymic and splenic lymphocytes
Authors: Luzikova Elena , Sergeeva Valentina , Valentina Gordova N.
Published: November 2023

Melatonin modulates the wide spectrum of physiological functions in lymphoid tissues. Several studies described the involvement of protein kinases (P38 and AKT1) in signaling pathways of many biological mechanisms such as cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and selection. Little is known about the effect of melatonin on AKT1 and P38 protein kinases expression in lymphoid organs.

This study checked the log‐time effect of melatonin on protein kinases Р38 and AKT1 expression in thymic and splenic lymphocytes of two months old male mice. The animals were divided in two groups: the control group got standardized drinking water ad libitum. The experimental group received ad libitum the same water containing 4 mg/liter melatonin (“Melaxen” Unipharm, Inc., US) for 28 days. Isolated thymus and spleen were embedded in paraffin and immunostained with antibodies against the P38 and AKT1. Images were analyzed using light microscope MIKMED 5.

Melatonin treatment resulted in reduction of Р38 expression in cortical (CS) and medullary substance (MS) of thymic lobules in 1.7 (p ≤ 0. 001) and 1.6 (p ≤ 0.0001) times respectively. In spleen of control animals the P38‐positive cells were detected in red pulp, subcapsular zone, lymphoid nodules and marginal sinuses. Administration of melatonin reduced the P38‐positive cell number in red pulp in 1.3 times (p ≤ 0. 001) and in subcapsular zone in 7.4 times (p ≤ 0.0001), but up‐regulate in marginal sinuses in 4.6 times (p ≤ 0. 001). In spleen's white pulp the number of Р38‐positive cells was 3.3 (p ≤ 0. 001) higher in comparison with control.

In thymocytes of CS and MS of thymic lobules from control animals AKT1 kinase was expressed intracellular (inactive form), and on plasma membrane (active form). The first type of cells was detected mostly in the CS of lobules. The second type ‐ in the subcapsular zone of the CS and in the MS. Administration of melatonin resulted in increasing number of thymocytes per field of view in CS in 4.2 times (p ≤ 0. 001), but the AKT1 expression in thymocytes plasma membrane was down‐regulates. The common number of AKT1 positive cells in subcapsular zones of thymic lobules was reduced. The immunoreactive signal of AKT1 expression in spleen shows the evenly weak distribution of kinase, especially in marginal zones of lymphoid nodules. Melatonin administration leads to the increasing number of lymphoid nodules in 3.5 times (r ≤ 0.001), up‐regulation of AKT1 expression in lymphocytes of nodules and reduction of AKT1 expression in the subcapsular zone of red pulp.

Melatonin‐induced enhancement of lymphocytes proliferation in the thymus and spleen is accompanied by decreasing of Р38 and AKT1 expression in thymus and up‐regulation of these kinases in spleen.
Anti‐Inflammatory Effects Of Tart Cherry Polyphenols In RANKL‐Stimulated RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophages
Authors: Thomas Amber , South Sanique , Lucero Jacquelynn , Prasad Chandan , Imrhan Victorine , Vijayagopal Parakat , Juma Shanil
Published: November 2023

Bone is maintained by an intricate balance between bone formation and bone resorption. The cells that participate in the breakdown of bone, osteoclasts, require stimulation by RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand), a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. The presence of inflammation can contribute to an imbalance in bone homestasis by enhancing osteoclastogenesis. Polyphenols such as flavonoids found in plant‐derived foods have been shown to have anti‐inflammatory effects in various tissues. Tart cherries are a rich source of such polyphenolic compounds. Using mouse macrophage cells (RAW 264.7), we examined whether tart cherry polyphenols (TCP) could dose‐dependently inhibit the differentiation and activity of RANKL‐induced osteoclastic cells under inflammatory conditions. Tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and staining of TRAP positive multinucleated osteoclasts, used as indicators of osteoclast differentiation and activity, decreased in a dose‐dependent manner with TCP treatment. A significant increase of nitrite, cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), interleukin 1‐beta (IL‐1β), and bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) concentrations were observed with lower dosages of TCP (50 and 100 μg/ml media). However, at higher doses (200 and 300 μg/ml media) TCP decreased concentrations of these markers demonstrating an anti‐inflammatory role. TCP treatment reduced osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression in a dose‐dependent manner, likely indicating a decrease in osteoclastic activity. Preliminary western blot analyses showed a dose‐dependent reduction in expression of COX‐2 protein. Overall, these findings suggest that tart cherry polyphenols would inhibit the negative effects of osteoclasts on bone health during inflammation. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which TCP affect osteoclastogenesis under inflammatory conditions.

Support or Funding Information

Partially Supported by Human Nutrition Fund at Texas Woman's University
Anti‐melanogenic and Anti‐oxidative Properties of Fermented Pueraria lobata Extract
Authors: Sohn Eun‐Hwa , Lee Jin‐Woo , Park Yuna , Choung Eui‐Su , Lee Jong‐Sub , Jang Seon‐A , Kwon Jung Eun , Kang Se Chan , Koo Hyun Jung
Published: November 2023

Pueraria lobata (Leguminosae) has been widely used as a traditional oriental medicine for the treatment of early symptoms of common cold and various diseases. The present study investigated the anti‐oxidative and anti‐melanogenic effects of Pueraria lobata extract fermented with intestinal bacteria, Lactobacillus rhamnosus vitaP1 (FPR). Anti‐melanogenic activity was determined by intracellular melanin content and tyrosinase activity in α‐MSH (melanin stimulating hormone)‐stimulated B16F10 cells. The anti‐oxidative property of FPR was measured using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging free radical activity assays. FPR significantly suppressed the production of melanin and the tyrosinase activity in α‐MSH‐induced cells. FPR also showed the significant tyrosinase inhibitory activity and the DPPH/ABTS radical scavenging activities under cell‐free conditions. These results suggest that FPR could be used as an ingredient in cosmeceutical skincare products.

Support or Funding Information

This work was carried out with the support of Cooperative Research Program for Agriculture Science & Technology Development (Project No. PJ01128102) Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.
Effects of different cooking methods on bioactive compound content and antioxidant activity of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica)
Authors: Hwang Eun‐Sun , Thi Nhuan Do
Published: November 2023

Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica), green leafy vegetable, belongs to the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae). It is a commonly found in Vietnam and other tropical countries and rich source of phytochemical compounds. Recent studies have reported that water spinach has inhibitory effects against prostaglandin synthesis, liver diseases, eye diseases, and constipation, and has an oral hypoglycemic effect in healthy subjects. Water spinach extract has also been found to alleviate antioxidant‐related disorders, reduce blood sugar, and protect against nosebleed and high blood pressure. Water spinach is usually boiled or steamed, or eaten fresh when prepared as soups. This study aims to determine the effects of different cooking methods (fresh, boiling, and steaming) on total bioactive compounds and evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activity in 80% ethanolic extracts of water spinach by spectrophotometric methods. We identified the best extraction solvent and compared the effects of different cooking methods on phytochemical contents and antioxidant activity of water spinach. Steamed water spinach extracted with 80% ethanol had the highest amounts of 35.0 mg/g total chlorophylls, 7.1 mg/g carotenoids, 35.6 mg/g total polyphenols, and 40.4 mg/g total flavonoids. The steaming process showed higher antioxidant activity than the uncooking or boiling process. The 80% ethanol extract showed a higher level of antioxidant activities than the water extract. The antioxidant activity was measured with the DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl and superoxide anion racial scavenging assays as well as the reducing power activity assay were increased in a concentration dependent manner. The overall results support that water spinach contains bioactive compounds and they may play a positive role in our health.
Acute Effects of Watermelon on Vascular Function and Serum Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Ellis Amy , Dudenbostel Tanja , Crowe‐White Kristi
Published: November 2023

Background

Vascular dysfunction is an early independent predictor of future cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Vascular endothelial function declines with age, largely due to decreased nitric oxide (NO) and increased oxidative stress. It is plausible that multiple bioactive compounds naturally found in watermelon (lycopene, ascorbic acid, arginine, citrulline, and glutamine) may act in synergy to improve endothelial function by increasing bioavailable NO and antioxidant capacity.

Objective

To determine whether a one‐time dose of 100% watermelon juice favorably affects vascular endothelial function and endogenous antioxidant capacity in older adult women.

Methods

Ten women ages 60–70 years were asked to consume a 12‐ounce serving of 100% watermelon juice after an 8‐hour overnight fast. At baseline and two hours after juice consumption, vascular endothelial function was assessed by flow‐mediated dilation (FMD%) and blood was collected for assessing the antioxidant capacity (AC) of deproteinated serum using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay.

Results

Average FMD% improved by 3.7% after juice consumption, and systolic blood pressure decreased by an average of 2.4 mmHg, although changes did not reach statistical significance. While hydrophilic AC was not significantly different between the two time points, lipophilic and total AC were significantly lower two hours post‐consumption which suggests that acute intake of the bioactive compounds in watermelon provided a short‐term (<2 hour) post‐prandial antioxidant effect (p=0.012 and 0.028, respectively).

Conclusions

Data from this pilot study suggest a dose‐duration response. A longitudinal intervention examining recurring intake among a larger sample size is warranted in order to determine the potential clinical impact of this food‐first intervention.

Support or Funding Information

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation / Healthy Aging Practice Group
Effect of konjac glucomannan soluble fiber, on clinical lipid targets: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs
Authors: Vuksan Vladimir , Ho Hoang Vi Thanh , Jovanvoski Elena , Zurbau Andreea , Mejia Sonia Blanco , Sievenpiper John , Jenkins Alexandra , Au‐Yeung Fei , Duvnjak Lea , Leiter Lawrence
Published: November 2023

Background

Current evidence suggests that the consumption of konjac glucomannan (KJM), a viscous soluble fiber, may significantly reduce LDL cholesterol. However, it is less known whether KJM has an effect on two newer clinical lipid targets in cardiovascular disease risk management.

Objective

To quantify the effect of KJM fiber on LDL cholesterol, non‐HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B reduction in a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the general population.

Design

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL was searched. Data were extracted by two independent reviews. Eligible studies included RCTs of ≥ 3 weeks follow‐up duration assessing the effect of KJM on LDL cholesterol, non‐HDL cholesterol, or apolipoprotein B. Using the statistical software RevMan (v5.3), the data were pooled using the generic inverse variance method with random effects models and expressed as mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity was assessed by the Cochran Q statistic and quantified by the I2 statistic.

Results

A total of 12 studies (n = 370), 8 in adults and 4 in children, were included in the meta‐analysis. KJM significantly reduced LDL cholesterol (MD = −0.35 [−0.46, −0.25] mmol/L) and non‐HDL cholesterol (MD = −0.32 [−0.46, −0.19] mmol/L). It did not appear to affect apoB, based on the results from 6 trials.

Conclusion

Consumption of approximately 3 g/d of KJM reduced significantly LDL cholesterol and non‐HDL cholesterol by 10% and 7%, respectively. The information may be of interest to health agencies in crafting future dietary recommendations related to cardiovascular disease risk management.
23‐Hydroxy Ursolic Acid Protects Atherosclerosis‐Prone Mice From Monocyte Dysfunction
Authors: Nguyen Huynh Nga , Short Johnny , Asmis Reto
Published: November 2023

We showed that ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid with anti‐inflammatory properties, reduces atherosclerotic lesion size and improves kidney function in diabetic mice. We proposed that the atheroprotective effects of UA are due to its ability to protect monocytes against metabolic stress‐induced dysfunction or “priming”, i.e. the hyper‐responsiveness to chemokine‐induced cell adhesion and migration. Based on structure‐function analyses of nine of UA's naturally occurring structural analogs, we identified and synthesized a compound with a structural feature that we predicted to enhance both bioavailability and the protective effects of UA against monocyte dysfunction both in vitro and in dyslipidemic atherosclerosis‐prone mice. This UA analogue, 23‐hydroxy ursolic acid (23‐OHUA), protected THP‐1 monocytes and human blood monocytes from metabolic priming with a similar potency to UA. Both phytochemicals protected monocytes from metabolic stress by preventing the degradation of MAPK phosphatase‐1 (MKP‐1), a master regulator of monocyte chemotaxis and macrophage function. To test the efficacy of 23‐OHUA in protecting mice against monocyte dysfunction and atherogenesis, we fed atherosclerosis‐prone LDLR−/− mice a high fat diet (HFD) or a HFD supplemented with either 0.05% UA or 0.05% 23‐OHUA. Monocytes were primed and hyper‐reactive to chemokines as early as 6 weeks after initiating HFD‐feeding as shown by our in vivo chemotaxis assay. HFD‐fed mice also exhibit an increase in the pro‐atherogenic Ly6Chi subset. Both dietary UA and 23‐OHUA significantly reduced monocyte priming and prevented the increase in pro‐inflammatory Ly6Chi monocytes. After 20 weeks, mice fed 23‐OHUA showed a significant inhibition in weight gain compared to HFD‐fed control mice and reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation. The anti‐obesogenic and anti‐atherogenic effects of 23‐OHUA was more pronounced than those of UA. Both compounds appear to exert their anti‐inflammatory, anti‐obesogenic and anti‐atherogenic effects through a novel but common mechanism involving the protection of blood monocytes against metabolic stress‐induced priming and dysfunction. Our results suggest 23‐OHUA and UA are viable candidates for low‐cost dietary supplements for the prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases associated with metabolic disorders.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported with a grant for R.A. from NIH R01 AT006885 and HNN from NIH TL1 TR001119.
Associations of Dietary Intakes of Red Raspberry Fruits with Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kirakosyan Ara , Seymour E Mitchel , Gutierrez Enrique , Bolling Steven
Published: November 2023

Therapeutic approaches for managing type 2 diabetes include reducing starch hydrolysis by a‐amylase inhibition or limiting glucose absorption by a‐glucosidase inhibition. Red raspberry (RS) may be a functional food to reduce the risk of diabetes. The functional properties of RS were assessed using an array of in vitro assays including antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory capacities and inhibitory effects on a‐amylase, a‐glucosidase, angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), and lipoxygenase. RS extract exhibited almost no lipoxygenase inhibitory activity and only slight inhibition of α‐amylase, but displayed strong inhibition of ACE and α‐glucosidase. In addition, RS showed strong antioxidant ability. It is well known that insulin signaling and cellular uptake of glucose are activated during food consumption. Insulin‐resistant rats are vulnerable to multiple pathophysiologies as a result of prolonged hyperglycemia, including development of non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or type 2 diabetes. In addition, the diabetic cardiovascular disease is associated with decreased adiponectin and increased oxidative stress. Therefore, in follow‐up study, the effect of RS was assessed in obesity‐prone, Zucker Fatty rats as a model of cardiometabolic risk. For 8 weeks, rats were fed a higher‐fat diet (45% of kcal) containing 2% (wt/wt) freeze‐dried whole raspberry powder (RSP) or added sugars (CON) to match macronutrient and calorie content. Cardiac tissue harvested from the control and experimental rats was evaluated for relative gene expression of key genes involved in the mechanism behind NIDDM, which is frequently accompanied by obesity and metabolic syndrome. The positive effects of RS on cardiovascular risk phenotypes were previously been determined by our group; raspberry significantly reduced cardiac pathology. With regard to cardiac molecular mechanisms, current results indicate that RS upregulates the expression of myocardial adiponectin, its receptor 2, and apolipoprotein E, likely impacting plasma cholesterol and triglyceride homeostasis. The lipoprotein lipase gene was down regulated, suggesting a positive regulation of fatty acid uptake into heart tissues. On the contrary, RS did not alter PPAR and NF‐kB‐related mRNA in heart tissue of obese, diabetes‐prone rats, but did alter nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt) mRNA. Nampt protein likely has multiple functions in different pathophysiological conditions related to obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by National Processed Raspberry Council grant