bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
eDSME: Convergence of Behavioral and Instructional Design Theory Online to Provide Diabetes Self‐Management Education/Support
Authors: Brown Linda , Ilich J
Published: June 2021

Diabetes affects 382 million people worldwide and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) predominates. The American Association of Diabetes Educators has identified seven behaviors (AADE7™) needed to reach clinical targets for people with diabetes and prediabetes. The objective of this study was to test the eDSME, a pilot web based Diabetes Self‐Management Education (DSME) and Diabetes Self‐Management Support (DSMS) intervention. eDSME utilizes theoretical constructs from instructional design and behavior change to address all AADE7™ behaviors with Web 2.0 technology (W2T). W2T allows greater interactivity and collaboration between clinician and patient. Methods used to converge these diverse disciplines are described and the first results will be presented. Lesson design follows Gagne's Events of Instruction which address the conditions necessary for adult learning.Lessons and interactivity operationalize constructs found in the Health Belief Model, Theory of Planned Behavior and the Social Cognitive Theory. Glucose meter and pedometer uploads provide data for the clinician to guide weekly coaching sessions. The expected clinical outcome is 5% reduction in A1C. Expected behavioral outcomes are reduced diabetes related distress, increased performance of AADE7™ behaviors and diabetes related self‐efficacy. To our knowledge, this is the first intervention to include DSME, DSMS and monitoring with feedback in an online environment designed for use by a clinician outside a governmental or research setting. eDSME has potential to expand the reach of clinicians and cost effectively improve clinical outcomes in patients with T2DM or prediabetes.
Using an “App” for Online Nutrition Education with Participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
Authors: Whited Taylor , Kim Loan , Whaley Shannon
Published: June 2021

As technology advances, users are shifting from desktop computers to mobile phones as tools for online learning. With these advances, there is demand for health educators to develop new platforms for learning which are tailored to individual needs. WIC is a national program that reaches more than 8.5 million low‐income mothers and children monthly and provides valuable nutrition education to their participants. The PHFE WIC Program is the largest local WIC agency in the country, serving approximately 4% of the nation's total and 23% of California's total WIC participants. As a leader and innovator in nutrition education, PHFE WIC seeks to continually improve the delivery of online nutrition. Preliminary data of online nutrition education in the PHFE‐WIC program in CA from 2011‐2014 found a significant shift from desktop computers to mobile devices as platforms for online nutrition education, with over 50% of participants using mobile devices. Use of an iPhone/Apple device was 18.5% in 2013, and 24% so far in 2014. Use of an android device was 36.1% in 2013 and 34.3% so far for 2014. Recognizing that more participants are accessing online nutrition education with their mobile devices, we are currently piloting an online nutrition education project which compares the use of a mobile phone “app” with the traditional online presentation platform. The “app” will utilize interactive forms of learning as well as presentation style learning, with the goal of increasing the efficacy of the current platform. We will present preliminary findings from survey and focus group data and discuss possible implications for future online nutrition education with mobile device “apps”.
Fruit and Vegetable (FV) Guide Development for Parents of Preschoolers: Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Delaney C , Martin‐Biggers J , Byrd‐Bredbenner C
Published: June 2021

FV have many benefits, yet intakes continue to fall short of recommendations. Thus, a guide promoting FV intake and availability in the home was developed using social cognitive theory concepts and motivational interviewing techniques. Parents of preschoolers (n=216) were surveyed to determine current FV intake; 18 participated in the 1st round of cognitive test interviews conducted by trained researchers and 19 participated in the 2nd round to determine guide comprehension, aspects perceived as useful and needed improvements. Two‐thirds of surveyed parents ate >2 fruits 蠅5 days/week; ~half ate >2 vegetables >5 days/week. Qualitative content analysis of round 1 revealed that Spanish (n=10) and English speakers (n=8) understood content, felt the information was useful, especially sections on FV benefits, reflective questions, observational learning and tips for increasing intake. English‐speakers suggested shortening the guide, reducing repetition, and clarifying portion size information. Spanish‐speakers expressed concern about cost of increasing FV intake, were confused about benefits of canned FV, and requested recipes and ideas to make FV more appealing. The guide was revised using Round 1 results, formatted as a mini‐magazine then underwent a 2nd round of cognitive testing. Spanish (n=10) and English (n=9) parents expressed satisfaction. Spanish speakers were motivated by content about the nutrition of FV whereas English speakers were motivated by tips given by other parents. The guide was well‐received; parents expressed great interest in the content, felt the guide was easily understood and beneficial, with minor suggestions for improvement. The refined FV guide has the potential to increase FV intake in families with preschoolers. USDA NIFA #2011‐68001‐30170
Evaluating Effectiveness of the Arkansas Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program on Changing Food Resource Management and Nutrition Practice Outcomes
Authors: Brite‐Lane Allison , Phelps Josh , Fuller Serena , Crook Tina , Hakkak Reza
Published: June 2021

Participation in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) has favorably improved dietary behaviors of low‐income families; however, Arkansas EFNEP has not been studied. To identify effectiveness of EFNEP on changing Arkansan participants' behaviors, as measured by the EFNEP Behavior Checklist, two domains, Food Resource Management (FRM) and Nutrition Practice (NP), were probed and relationships between specific behaviors and related outcomes explored. Data were provided from 1,927 EFNEP participant entry/exit Behavior Checklists. Results showed good internal consistency in Food Resource Management and Nutrition Practice domains of the Behavior Checklist (αentry=0.708 & αexit=0.779 FRM; αentry=0.757 & αexit=0.791 NP). Significant differences were identified at exit for all items tested by Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests (p<0.01). Binary logistic regression analysis indicated positive change in “running out of food less often at the end of the month” was related to improved behaviors of “shopping with a grocery list” (OR 1.86; CI 1.49, 2.34; p<0.001) and “planning meals ahead of time” (OR 1.35; CI 1.09, 1.69; p=0.008); positive change in “how often participants thought about healthy food choices when deciding what to feed the family” was significantly (p<0.003) related to improvements in several behaviors. These findings support a positive association between participation in Arkansas EFNEP and improved behavioral outcomes.
Does Coconut Oil Have Side Effects
Authors: Harris Margaret , Fernandez Jami , Hutchins Andrea
Published: June 2021

Virgin coconut oil (CO), high in medium chained fatty acids (MCT), is metabolized quickly. Few cases report intolerance or allergy with oil intake. Some practitioners recommend at least 30‐60 g of CO/day for health benefits but side effects from this amount of oil are unexplored. This analysis compares side effects of CO to high oleic safflower oil (SO), which is primarily a polyunsaturated fat. A mixed‐methods analysis examined data from a randomized cross‐over clinical trial of 12 postmenopausal females. Participants consumed either CO or SO for 28 days without altering normal diet with a 28 day washout. Side effect surveys were given at each testing period. Qualitative analyses of survey comments were categorized by theme, codified, and compared to identify relationships hierarchically. One subject had an intolerance to coconut oil as evidenced by a scratchy throat and general feeling of malaise that improved after stopping the oil. More subjects reported no change in gastric issues on SO than CO. About 30% of subjects experienced an initial increase in gas after CO that disappeared when they incorporated the oils slowly. Improved skin softness was notable with CO compared to SO (+67% vs +15%, p=0.03 Mc Nemar's test). About 30% reported decreased cravings and appetite on both oils. Though 39% of participants reported feeling heavier while using SO, there was no meaningful weight change with either oil. Participants reported feeling more satiated with CO though had a smaller appetite on SO. We conclude that allergy/intolerance to CO is possible. Negative side effects are minimized with slow oil consumption. To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring side effects of CO in a Caucasian US population. Additional research on appetite & satiety is needed to determine whether CO is helpful in attaining weight loss goals.
Innate Immune Sensing of a Bacterial Protein in the ER of the Intestine by IRE1b
Authors: Cho Jin , Lencer Wayne
Published: June 2021

The plasma membrane and all membrane‐bound organelles except for the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are equipped with pattern‐recognition molecules to sense microbes or their products and induce innate immunity for host defense. Here, we report that Inositol‐REquiring‐1b (IRE1b), an intestinal epithelial cell‐specific ER membrane protein, is activated to induce inflammation by Cholera toxins and Shiga toxins as they co‐opt the ER to cause disease such as inflammatory bowel disease. This inflammatory response depends on the RNase activity of IRE1b. These observations implicate Regulated IRE1a‐Dependent Decay of mRNA (RIDD) in a novel innate immune mechanism of host defense originating from within the ER lumen of the intestine.
Hepcidin, Iron Status and Inflammation in School‐Aged Nepalese Children
Authors: Baker Sarah , Schulze Kerry , Wu Lee , Christian Parul , West Keith
Published: June 2021

Iron deficiency (ID) is common throughout life in developing countries, but concurrent inflammation (INF) challenges interpretation of conventional iron status indicators. Hepcidin, an iron‐regulatory hormone, may improve iron status assessment when ID and INF coexist. Hepcidin is elevated in the presence of iron stores and INF, thereby preventing iron absorption. We assessed plasma hepcidin among 6‐8 year old children of rural Nepal (n=498) to determine its association with ferritin, transferrin receptor (TfR), and INF (C‐reactive protein, CRP > 5.0 mg/L, α‐1 acid glycoprotein, AGP > 1.0 g/L, or both), measured previously. Variables were ln‐transformed to normalize distributions. Ferritin was adjusted downward when INF was present by a multiplicative factor of 0.756, based on the ratio of the geometric mean of ferritin in the absence relative to presence of INF. Median (interquartile range) of hepcidin was 12.0 (6.7, 21.1) μg/L. ID as ferritin<15 mg/L occurred in 11.0% while INF occurred in 30.7% of children. Estimates of hepcidin values based on regression were geometric mean (95%CI): 11.6 (10.6, 12.7) with no INF and no ID, 3.8 (2.9, 5.0) with no INF and ID, 15.8 (13.3, 18.5) with INF and no ID, and 6.4 (4.3, 2.2) with INF and ID. Similar analyses with TfR did not reveal a significant impact of concurrence of ID (adjusted TfR>8.3 mg/mL) and INF on hepcidin, despite a higher prevalence of ID by elevated TfR (36.4%). These data are consistent with evidence that hepcidin is positively associated with iron stores and INF, but suggest a stronger role for compromised iron stores than inflammation in this setting.

Supported by Gates Foundation grants OPPGH5241 and GH614 (Global Control of Micronutrient Deficiency).
R‐α‐lipoic acid potentiates fasting‐induced transcription and secretion of hepatic fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21)
Authors: Moreau Regis , Xia Mengna , Pashaj Anjeza
Published: June 2021

Recombinant FGF21 (rFGF21) is an experimental polypeptide therapy against type‐2 diabetes and lipid anomalies. However, the high costs of producing rFGF21 and the mode of delivery by injection are important limitations to its wide therapeutic use. The stimulation of endogenous FGF21 production through diet is being explored as an alternative approach. Our research showed that naturally occurring dietary organosulfur compound R‐α‐lipoic acid (LA) stimulated liver Fgf21 expression (+175%) and blood FGF21 levels (+330%) and replicated the adaptive metabolic response to fasting evoked by FGF21 in vivo. In the present study, we examined the mechanism(s) by which serum manipulation and LA induce FGF21 in HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Serum starvation markedly induced FGF21 mRNA levels (50 fold) and FGF21 secreted in the media (19 fold). LA induced FGF21 mRNA 7 fold above DMSO‐treated control cells and FGF21 secretion 3 fold. These effects were several‐fold greater than those of PPARα agonist, Wy14643, an inducer of FGF21. The use of transcription inhibitor, actinomycin D, revealed that de novo mRNA synthesis drives FGF21 secretion in response to serum starvation and LA, and FGF21 does not accumulate in HepG2 cells to a significant degree. Previously unrecognized loci of FGF21 distal promoter were nucleosome depleted and transcriptionally active revealing new putative transcription factors. We conclude that LA activates FGF21 distal promoter resulting in FGF21 secretion by liver cells. LA may prove to be a safe and affordable means to stimulate FGF21 production. Supported by UNL ARD Hatch, and Layman Seed Award.
The Role of Serine Hydroxymethyltransferase and Methylene‐Tetrahydrofolate Dehydrogenase in Genome Stability
Authors: DiRisio Aislyn , Kamynina Elena , Stover Patrick
Published: June 2021

The conversion of tetrahydrofolate (THF) to 5,10‐methyleneTHF is catalyzed by the isozymes serine hydroxymethyltransferase 1 and 2 (SHMT1, SHMT2) and the trifunctional enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 (MTHFD1). 5,10‐methyleneTHF is a cofactor for the enzyme thymidylate synthase (TYMS) in the conversion of deoxyuridylate (dUMP) to thymidylate (dTMP) via one‐carbon metabolism. De novo dTMP synthesis is critical to prevent uracil misincoporation and double stranded breaks (DSBs). The objective of this experiment is to observe the effects of SHMT and MTHFD1 knockdown and arsenic exposure on the thymidylate biosynthesis pathway and genome stability. Reduced SHMT1, SHMT2, and MTHFD1 expression, either alone or in combination, led to a greater percentage of average nuclear area displaying the signal for γH2AX phosphorylation, indicating that knockdown of these proteins increases the extent of DSBs in DNA of affected cells. Arsenic induced uracil incorporation into DNA and increased the extent of genome instability without affecting de novo purine biosynthesis. These data indicate that both SHMT and MTHFD1 contribute to maintenance of genome stability. Supported by Public Health Services grant HD059120 to PJS.
Maternal Folic Acid/Vitamin B12 Imbalance Programs Hepatic Gene Expression in Female Offspring
Authors: Aljaadi Abeer , Aleliunas Rika , Glier Melissa , Green Tim , Miller Joshua , Devlin Angela
Published: June 2021

Epidemiological studies reported an association between gestational exposure to high maternal folate and low vitamin B12 (B12) status and greater adiposity and insulin resistance in children. The objective of this study is to examine the effect of developmental exposure to maternal folic acid (FA)/B12 imbalance on programming of adiposity, liver gene expression, and methyl metabolites in adult female offspring. Female C57BL/6 mice were fed a high FA/adequate B12 (HFA+B12), high FA/no B12 (HFA‐B12), or control diet 6 weeks prior to mating and through pregnancy and lactation. Female offspring mice were weaned onto the control diet or a Western diet, and fed for 35 weeks (n=6 mice/group). Independent of post weaning diet, female offspring from dams fed the HFA‐B12 diet had lower Mtr mRNA. Further, offspring from dams fed the HFA‐B12 diet had higher Mthfr and lower Ppara mRNA when they were fed the Western diet, compared to offspring from dams fed the HFA+B12 diet. Western diet‐fed offspring from dams fed the HFA‐B12 diet also had lower hepatic S‐adenosylmethionine concentrations, compared to those from control‐fed dams. Unlike the Western diet‐fed, control‐fed offspring from dams fed the HFA diet (independent of maternal B12) had greater abdominal fat mass. Offspring serum B12 concentrations were positively associated with abdominal fat mass. These findings suggest that developmental exposure to maternal high FA/low B12 programs expression of genes in the liver of adult offspring mice, and that serum B12 concentrations are related to visceral adiposity.

Supported by NSERC
Effects of iron supplementation on DNA damage of lymphocytes in rats
Authors: Ma Aiguo , He Limin , Sun Yongye , Cai Jing , Zhang Huaqi , Wang Yajin , Wu Dayong
Published: June 2021

Iron‐induced oxidative stress has been shown to cause a variety of cell damage. In the current study we investigated the effect of different doses of iron supplementation on DNA damage of lymphocytes in rats. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four diet groups:1) control (4.5 mg iron/kg·bw), iron deficiency (1.5 mg iron/kg·bw), 10x supplementation (45 mg iron/kg·bw) and 20x supplementation(90 mg iron/kg·bw). Iron was administered by intraperitoneal injection of 0.72ml iron dextran every other day for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, serum iron levels were determined by spectrophotometyand lymphocytes DNA damage was assessed using comet assay. We found that the serum iron levels in iron deficiency group (53.54 μmol/L) were significantly lower compared tothe control group (77.62μmol/L)(P<0.001), while the serum iron levels in both 10x group (104.77μmol/L) and 20 x group (205.30μmol/L) were significantly higher compared to the control group (P<0.001). We also found that the DNA damage in 10x group (82.80AU) and 20x group (169.50AU) was significantly higher compared to the control group (21.13AU, P<0.001). In addition, the DNA damage induced by 10μmol/L H2O2 showed a significantly higher oxidative DNA damage in 10xgroup (293.80AU) and 20x group (308.88AU) compared to the control group(259.00AU, P<0.001). In conclusion, iron overload as supplemented with 10x and 20x of the adequate (control) level may induce oxidative damage tolymphocyte DNA .

Supported by NSFC‐81373000.
Antioxidant properties in functional kimchi
Authors: Kang Soon Ah , Kim Mi‐ja , Kim Tae‐Soon , Jang Ki‐hyo , Cho Eun Ju , Park Kun‐Young
Published: June 2021

Antioxidative activities of functional kimchi, which were made of mustard leaf, Chinese pepper, mushroom, and sea tangle juice to standard kimchi were using total phenolic contents, DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS anion scavenging, FRAP reducing power, and ORAC value. Kimchi is famous health food in the world. It has a high concentration and a wider range of functional and bioactive substances. Many researchers reported that Kimchi has many health benefits such as antioxidant, anti‐cancer, antimicrobial, and anti‐diabetic effects. As results, DPPH radical and ABTS anion scavenging activities of functional kimchi were significantly higher than those of standard kimchi by 2.7 and 1.7 fold, representatively (P<0.05). Also, The FRAP reducing power and ORAC value of functional kimchi showed increase compared to standard kimchi by 1.6 and 1.1 fold, representatively. Our results suggest that functional kimchi may be a potent antioxidant source and development of antioxidant enhancing functional food that may be utilized for the effective treatment of oxidant conditions.
Scavenging of Toxic Acrolein by Resveratrol and Hesperetin: Reaction Kinetics and Adducts Identification
Authors: Wang Weixin , Rocca James , Sarnoski Paul , Jia Aiqun , Gu Liwei
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the ability of resveratrol and hesperetin to scavenge acrolein in pH 7.4 at 37 oC. Acrolein is a toxic α, β‐unsaturated aldehyde that exists in human body and foods due to lipid oxidation. At equal molar concentrations, resveratrol and hesperetin quenched 93.6% and 94.8% of acrolein in 12 hours, respectively. These were accompanied by a decrease of 55.0% resveratrol and 30.7% hesperetin. A resveratrol‐acrolein adduct and a hesperitin‐acrolein adduct were isolated using Sephadex LH‐20, reversed and normal phase chromatography. Their structures were elucidated by MS and NMR spectrum. It was shown that an acrolein reacted with a benzene ring of resveratrol at the C2 and C3 positions through nucleophilic addition to form an additional heterocyclic ring. A similar monoacrolein‐conjugated adduct was identified for hesperetin in a mixture of epimers, where an acrolein added onto the C5 and C6 positions on the A‐ring to form a heterocyclic ring. Yield of adducts was low at pH=5.4 but increased at the pH 7.4 and 8.4. Higher pH also promoted the formation of di‐acrolein adducts. The scavenging of acrolein by resveratrol and hesperetin followed fifth and third order kinetics at pH 7.4, respectively. These results suggest that resveratrol and hesperetin exert health benefits in part through neutralizing toxic acrolein in human body.
Estimation of Dietary Flavonoid Intake and Major Food Sources of Korean Adults‐ the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2007‐2012‐*
Authors: Jun Shinyoung , Shin Sangah , Kim Seongah , Min Chanyang , Park Soyoung , Joung Hyojee
Published: June 2021

Epidemiological studies suggest flavonoids have preventive effects on chronic diseases. In this study, we aimed to estimate the intakes of total and individual flavonoids of Korean adults, their major dietary sources, and the association with sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. We constructed the flavonoid database for all foods reported by the 24‐h dietary recall (DR) of the KNHANES 2007‐2012 using data from Rural Development Administration of Korea, US Department of Agriculture, Japan Functional Food Factor Database, and other analytic studies. This database, which covers 50.0% of all food items, was linked with 24‐h DR data of 33581 subjects aged 蠅19 years in the KNHANES 2007‐2012. Mean daily total flavonoid intake of subjects was 245.12 mg/d, from flavonols (24.3%), isoflavones (22.3%), flavanols (21.8%), flavonones (16.0%), anthocyanins (15.2%), and flavones (0.4%). The major food sources were fruits(52.7%), vegetables(25.5%), legumes and legume products(17.6%), beverages and alcohols(2.5%). By food items, apple was the highest contributor to the total flavonoid intake, followed by mandarin, tofu, and onion. In addition, the flavonoid intake increased with age (P=0.0007) and education level (P<0.0001). Antioxidant capacity of flavonoids in the diet and the health benefits of dietary flavonoids need further investigation using the database and estimates in this study.

*This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) grant funded by the Korea government(MSIP) (2014R1A2A2A01003138).
Network‐based Characterization of Inflammation Biomarkers, Phytochemicals and Disease
Authors: Kamanu Frederick , Zirkler Estelle , Obin Martin , Ordovas Jose , Parnell Laurence , Smith Caren
Published: June 2021

Chronic inflammation is often a major contributor to the onset and progression of cardiometabolic dysfunction. Whether through effects on the inflammatory response system or independent of inflammation, plant‐derived polyphenols comprise a micro‐nutrient class important in cardiovascular disease and other cardiometabolic traits. Well‐known effects of these compounds include reducing blood glucose, acting as a diuretic, and raising HDL cholesterol. Using a computational approach, published phytochemicals and disease interaction information was mined from the literature and integrated with publicly available phytochemical data, including those relating specific phytochemicals to food items. The resulting federated database can be interrogated for the purpose of constructing molecular networks that depict relationships between diet, cardiometabolic traits, aging and inflammation. This nutrition‐inflammation interactome is a useful tool to understanding the diet‐disease‐inflammation axis and is also a vehicle for generating testable hypotheses in the laboratory setting.

Funding: FY 15 Genomics account ‐ H020001 DA9519
Fish Oil Supplementation May Improve Partial Thromboplastin Time in Individuals with Blood Type A
Authors: Thompson‐Felty Claudia , Johnston Carol , Ryder Ashley
Published: June 2021

Individuals with non‐O blood types are at an increased risk for developing and dying from heart disease. Non‐O blood type also increases risk for pulmonary embolism. Thrombotic occlusion is often the cause of both myocardial infarction and embolism. Increased levels of the von Willebrand factor (VWF) have been associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombosis, and VWF concentrations are higher in the plasma of individuals with non‐O blood types compared to those with the O blood type. Some research suggests that fish oil supplementation will reduce the hypercoaguable state in individuals with shortened partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Forty‐eight healthy individuals (24 blood type A [BTA] and 24 blood type O [BTO]; M/F, 12/36; 26.5±8.5 y, BMI, 24.5±3.6 kg/m2)were recruited for an 8‐wk trial to evaluate the impact of fish oil supplementation on PTT. Participants were stratified by blood type, gender, age, and BMI and randomly assigned to one of two supplement groups: fish oil (2000 mg/d) or coconut oil (2000 mg/d). At baseline, there was a significant mean difference in PTT between the BTA and BTO groups (27.9±1.9 and 29.2±1.7 sec, respectively) (p=0.013). Moreover, a higher percentage of BTA individuals fell into the hypercoaguable category (PTT < 30 sec) compared to the BTO individuals, 87% versus 54% respectively (p=0.033). Preliminary data (18 of 48 participants have completed the intervention) reveal an increase in PTT in the BTA group ingesting fish oil supplements daily (+0.6 seconds) versus the BTA group consuming coconut oil daily (‐0.7 seconds) (p=0.057). There were no differences in PTT between the two BTO groups. This trial will offer insights regarding the relationship of fish oil supplementation and the hypercoaguable state in BTA.
The Effect of Wild Blueberry Juice Consumption in Women at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Stote K , Sweeney‐Nixon M , Kean T , Baer D , Novotny J , Flaherty NL , Chandrasekaran A , Carrico P , Melendez JA , Gottschall‐Pass K
Published: June 2021

Wild blueberries have a high content of polyphenols, but there is limited data evaluating their health benefits in people at risk for type 2 diabetes. The objective of the study was to investigate whether 100% wild blueberry juice (WBJ) consumption causes biomarker changes in glucoregulatory control or in those that reflect protection against oxidative stress, inflammation or vascular status, all of which are associated with diabetes risk. A single‐blind randomized cross‐over design study was conducted in which women (n = 19, ages 39‐64 y) at risk for type 2 diabetes consumed 240 ml WBJ or 240 ml of a control beverage as part of their free‐living diet for 7 days. Outcome variables included biomarkers of glucose regulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Vascular status, assessed by EndoPat, and blood pressure were also evaluated. WBJ consumption produced no significant changes in biomarkers of glucose regulation and surrogate markers of insulin resistance (glucose, insulin, HOMA‐IR and QUICKI); oxidative stress (total 8‐isoprostanes and LDL‐oxidation); inflammation (IL‐6, IL‐10, CRP, TNF‐alpha, ICAM, VCAM, SAA); and vascular status. However, WBJ consumption showed a trend for lowering systolic blood pressure when compared to the control beverage: 120.8 ± 2.2 mmHg in the placebo group vs 116.0 ± 2.2 mmHg in the WBJ group (P = 0.088). Short term intake of WBJ consumption did not have harmful effects on biomarkers of glucose regulation, oxidative stress, inflammation and vascular status in women at risk for type 2 diabetes. In addition, WBJ may improve systolic blood pressure.
Macadamia Nuts and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Stewart Maria
Published: June 2021

Nuts are associated with reduced risk cardiovascular disease, primarily due to their fatty acid composition. The United States Food and Drug Administration approved a qualified health claim for tree nuts and the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, some nuts, such as macadamia nuts, were specifically excluded from the qualified health claim. The aim of this scientific review is to summarize the nutrient content of macadamia nuts and evaluate the scientific evidence linking macadamia nuts to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Macadamia nuts are a tree nut rich in palmitoleic acid and oleic acid, both of which are unsaturated fatty acids. Other bioactive compounds in macadamia nuts, such as vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, protein, and phytochemicals may affect chronic disease risk. Six peer‐reviewed scientific articles have investigated the effect of macadamia nuts on blood lipids and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. Although the macadamia nut dose and the study design differed among the studies, all six articles reported improvements in risk factors for cardiovascular disease, particularly decreased total blood cholesterol and LDL‐cholesterol. This paper concludes that there is adequate scientific evidence to support the therapeutic role of macadamia nuts in lowering blood cholesterol, a well‐recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Pulicaria jaubertii Extract Prevents Triglyceride Deposition in 3T3‐L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Picklo Matthew , Rousova Jana , Kubatova Alena , Al‐Naqeb Ghanya
Published: June 2021

Currently, levels of obesity in Middle Eastern countries are increasing. Phytochemicals have anti‐obesogenic properties as evidenced by prevention of adipocyte differentiation. In Yemen, Pulicaria jauberti E.Gamal‐Eldin (PJ) is a food additive and a traditional medicine. We tested the ability of extracts derived from PJ to inhibit the differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. Methanolic extracts of PJ blocked triglyceride accumulation and leptin expression, but not expression of fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), indicating that methanolic extracts of PJ block triglyceride accumulation but not adipocyte differentiation. Previous data demonstrate that elevation of NADPH:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) blocks triglyceride accumulation. Treatment of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes increased NQO1 content in part as a response to glutathione (GSH) depletion. PJ treatment increased the expression of glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit and glutathione reductase suggesting that PJ activates the anti‐oxidant response element pathway. Further fractionation of the methanolic PJ extract with hexane and dichloromethane (DCM) showed that the DCM fraction, but not the hexane fraction, recapitulated the effects of the methanolic extract. GC‐MS analysis of the fractions revealed multiple compounds including carvotanacetone as most abundant in hexane fraction. Occurrence of catechin‐like polyphenolics was proposed based on GC‐MS and LC with high resolution MS analysis. Funding: USDA‐ARS and the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program.
Detection of Estrogenic and Anti‐estrogenic Activities of Dietary Plant Extracts by InVitro Reporter Assays
Authors: Basu Paramita , Dixon Dinu , Varghese Sherin , Varghese Gladys , Varghese Gladwin , Maier Camelia
Published: June 2021

Phytoestrogens are plant polyphenolic compounds which structurally and functionally mimic the mammalian estrogen hormone. This study aimed to establish the estrogenic agonism and antagonism of some dietary plants in Ericaceae, Moraceae, Rosaceae, and Vitaceae families. A steroid‐regulated transcription system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing a human estrogen receptor alpha expression plasmid and a β‐galactosidase gene reporter plasmid was employed in this study. Estrogenic activities of plant extracts were detected by assessing their effects on estrogen receptor mediated transactivation of the reporter gene as compared to estradiol. The degree of the weak estrogenic activities of ethanolic fruit extracts ranked as follows: California grape (Vitis californica) > red raspberry (Rubus ideaus) > strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) > Blackberry (R. fruticosus). Fruit extracts of blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and black raspberry (R. occidentalis) exhibited no estrogenic activities. Some extracts showed anti‐estrogenic properties by lowering the transcriptional activity induced by estradiol in transgenic yeast. Black and red raspberry extracts showed anti‐estrogenic activities in dose‐dependent manner. Blackberry, blueberry, and jackfruit extracts lowered estradiol activity by 25‐35% at all concentrations used. Strawberry extract exhibited partial antagonism of estradiol at low concentrations and partial agonism at high concentrations. This study reports for the first time anti‐estrogenic activities of the above plant extracts and it may lead to detection of new more potent phytoestrogens for possible chemopreventive effects and cancer treatments.
Interaction between Protease Resistant Potato Protein and Intestinal Membrane
Authors: Lim Jinkyu , Chen Xiaocen , Kim Sunghee , Choi Jaesun
Published: June 2021

Potato has been known to offers protection against colon cancer, improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, and lowers plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations. Potato proteins contain protease inhibitors, which are potentially effective appetite suppressor to increases satiety, and possibly even reduce fat storage. As our previous studies suggest that potato proteins are resistant to digestive proteases and interact with intestinal endothelial cells, we hypothesized that the protease resistant potato proteins might interact with the small intestinal mucosa layer, then, trigger certain functional signals for the satiety control and nutrient absorption. To study the function of protease resistant potato proteins on intestinal mucosa, the interacting proteins between potato and small intestinal membrane were isolated by affinity purification and identified by mass spectrometric analysis. To reduce the nonspecific binding intestinal membrane, proteins was fractionation by fractionation sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Also, cell signaling triggered by potato proteins to the intestinal cell line, Caco‐2, were accessed by phosphoproteomic analysis.
In vitro Evaluation of Ayurveda Herbs (Centella asiatica, Bacopa monnieri, Rhizoma polygonata) for Potential Carbohydrate Hydrolyzing Enzyme Inhibition
Authors: Fortier Kevin , Racicot Kenneth , Apostolidis Emmanouil
Published: June 2021

Three Ayurveda herbs (C. asiatica / Gotu Kola, B. monnieri / Brahmi and R. polygonata / Fo‐Ti) were extracted in water and evaluated for their phenolic content and alpha‐glucosidase inhibitory activity. The phenolic content was evaluated using the Folin‐Ciocalteau's Assay and we observed that Fo‐Ti had the highest phenolic content (1.45 mg/mL GAEq), followed by Gotu Kola (0.41 mg/mL GAEq) and Brahmi (0.31 mg/mL GAEq). When we evaluated the dose‐dependent inhibitory activity of the three extracts against alpha‐glucosidase, Fo‐Ti had the highest inhibitory activity (55%). Gotu Kola and Brahmi had similar and very low inhibitory activities (13% and 22%, respectively). These results are expected since previous reports had shown that alpha‐glucosidase inhibitory activity is phenolic dependent and Fo‐Ti had significantly higher phenolic content, when compared to the other two tested samples. Currently, LH‐20 fractionation of Fo‐Ti is underway to identify the possible bioactive fractions responsible for the observed activity. Fo‐Ti and the resulting fractions will be evaluated for their specific sucrase and maltase inhibitory activity. Completion of this research will provide a better understanding of the possible mechanism of action of Fo‐Ti for potential type 2 diabetes prevention.
Carnosic acid suppresses liver lipogenesis and adipocytes differentiation in ovariectomized C57BL/6J mice fed high‐fat diet
Authors: Lee Yoon‐Hee , Sung Mi‐Kyung , Lim Wha Sun
Published: June 2021

In postmenopausal women, loss of systemic estrogen availability induces body fat accumulation which is linked to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease and several cancer development. Carnosic acid (CA) is reported to have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐adipogenic effects. The study was aimed to determine the effect of high‐fat diet (HD) and CA on lipogenesis in ovariectomized (OVX) animals. OVX or sham‐operated mice at 8 weeks of age were fed with normal diet (ND), HD, ND+CA, or HD+CA for 12 weeks. Results indicated that both HD and OVX significantly increased total fat mass which was suppressed by CA supplementation. Circulating concentrations of insulin, leptin and TG were significantly higher in HD and OVX+HD mice compared to those of ND mice while CA supplementation effectively reduced the concentration of these molecules only in OVX+ HD mice. Liver protein expressions of pAMPK and pACC were increased by CA supplementation in OVX+HD mice. The mRNA expressions of liver SREBP1c and FAS were significantly increased by OVX+HD and the expression levels were reduced by CA supplementation. These results suggest that CA suppresses OVX and/or diet‐induced dysregulated lipid metabolism. [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 (20110011669). This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIP) (20080062618)]
Tolerance and Efficacy of a Probiotic Supplement Delivered in Capsule Form
Authors: Labellarte Gina , Cooper Scott , Maher Margaret
Published: June 2021

Probiotic supplementation may promote a healthy microbiome, alleviate diarrhea and constipation, and improve some metabolic parameters. Bacillus subtilis, used in fermentation of some foods, may also be tolerated and effective in a concentrated supplement form. Forty healthy male and female adults (23 ± 3.9 years of age) were randomly assigned, in a double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial, to probiotic (approximately 1.9 x 109 CFU/capsule) or placebo groups for an average of 20 days. Subjects were instructed to maintain their usual diet and activity levels over the course of the study. Fecal and fasted serum samples were collected before and after capsule consumption. Dietary and daily bowel movement (BM) frequency and consistency records were reported by subjects. Fecal DNA was subject to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real‐time PCR (qPCR) for microbial detection and quantification. Metabolic, lipid, and C reactive protein levels remained within normal ranges from pre‐ to post‐ capsule consumption, however serum glucose was significantly reduced in the probiotic group (91.0 to 85.9 mg/dL, α 蠄 0.05; P = 0.012). A significant increase in average number of BMs reported per day was seen in the placebo group (α 蠄 0.05; P = 0.015). No significant differences in fecal microbe content were seen in qPCR analysis, though some trends were indicated with qPCR and fecal plate count analyses. Daily consumption of B. subtilis was well tolerated and may be effective as a supplement for those with glucose intolerance and diabetes, and promote regularity of bowel movements. Limitations of the study included lack of dietary and alcohol intake control and an inadequate number of fecal subsamples for follow‐up analyses. This study was funded by Deerland Enzymes Inc.
Antioxidant Properties and Safety Evaluation of Curcumin (CurcuWINTM)
Authors: Juturu Vijaya , Sahin Kazim , Pala Ragip , Tuzcu Mehmet , Sahin Nurhan , Ozdemir Oguzhan , Deshpande Jayant
Published: June 2021

Curcumin (CurcuWINTM) a polyphenolic compound isolated from Curcuma longa L. and has a long history of use in Indian medicine. The curcumin formulation(CurcuWINTM) is a combination of hydrophilic carrier, cellulosic derivatives and natural antioxidants significantly increases curcuminoid appearance in the blood (46 fold increase over other forms). CurcuWINTM demonstrated antidepressant, antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Twenty‐eight (28) male Wistar rats (age: 8 Wk, weight: 180 ± 20 g) were divided into four treatment groups (i) control [no Ex, Group I (C)] (ii) C + Cur [no Ex, Group II] (iii) C + Ex [Group III] and (iv) C + Ex+ Cur [Group IV]. Cur [100 mg/ kg, contains approximately 20 mg of curcuminoids] was administered daily as an oral supplement per d for 6 weeks. Safety end points including liver, heart and kidney functions were measured for curcumin (CurcuWINTM) treated groups and compared with control. Tissues such as lung, kidney, spleen, heart, pancreas, small and large intestines, stomach, testes, skeletal muscle and skin were observed for micro and macroscopic changes during the treatment period. No treatment related clinical signs and mortalities were observed. Similarly, no treatment related changes in liver and kidney functions, body weight, feed consumption; organ weights, no gross lesions and no changes in histopathology were observed. Muscle MDA was significantly decreased; SOD, GPx and GSH were significantly improved in curcumin treated groups. Therefore, it is concluded that curcumin (CurcuWINTM) is safe and has antioxidant properties.
Cortactin is Differentially Expressed in B‐cell Precursor Cells: Implications for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: VELAZQUEZ AVILA MARTHA , DORANTES ACOSTA ELISA , LOPEZ MARTINEZ Briceida , SCHNOOR MICHAEL , PELAYO ROSANA
Published: June 2021

Cortactin and HS1 are actin‐binding molecules known to be overexpressed in leukemic B‐cells from adult patients with chronic lymphoid leukemia. Both proteins are required for proper actin remodeling in virtually all cell types. While cortactin overexpression is associated to invasiveness of various solid tumor cells, HS1 is correlated with poor prognosis of chronic leukemia in adult patients. However, the role of cortactin and HS1 in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL) has never been studied. Here, we analyzed mRNA levels of both cortactin and HS1 in model cell lines for ALL and primary bone marrow (BM) cells from B‐ALL patients, and found substantial increases for both cortactin and HS1 in leukemic cells compared to controls. Furthermore, protein levels of cortactin were highest within primary primitive Lin‐CD34+ stem and progenitor cell compartments, while lineage committed CD34‐CD19+ and non‐B cells displayed low expression levels. By contrast, HS1 expression was high but did not change during differentiation. Unraveling the importance of differential expression of cortactin and HS1 in leukemia initiating cells for the population dynamics and development of childhood acute leukemias may open novel treatment strategies to prevent progression of the disease with infiltrations into other organs.
Modulation of COX‐1 and COX‐2 Protein Levels by Selective and Non‐Selective NSAIDs
Authors: Schneider Ryan , Whited Tawna , Adams Bryce , Miller Ian , Stang Christopher , Kim Lindsay , Dudley Richard , Kinder David
Published: June 2021

Since prostaglandins are critically involved in tumorigenesis, COX inhibitors, which reduce prostaglandins, have been investigated for anti‐cancer effects. We and others have shown that the COX‐2 selective inhibitor, celecoxib, induces apoptosis in various cancer cell lines. However, the role of COX inhibition in these anti‐cancer effects remains uncertain. Previously, we reported that celecoxib and another COX‐2 selective inhibitor, etodolac, increased COX‐2 protein levels in several human cancer cell lines (A375 melanoma, CRL‐1620 glioblastoma and HT‐29 colon carcinoma). A non‐selective inhibitor, ibuprofen, failed to increase COX‐2 expression in all but A375 cells. It is well known that COX‐2 is inducible by various stimuli. However, COX‐1 is constitutive and thought to be less dynamic. Here, COX‐1 levels were examined via western blotting to determine whether they were dynamic in response to treatment with various COX inhibitors. Celecoxib treatment for 24 hours induced COX‐1 in A375 cells. In contrast, COX‐1 levels were stable in celecoxib‐treated HT‐29 cells but were decreased in CRL‐1620 cells. COX‐1 levels were unaffected by etodolac treatment in all three cells lines. Ibuprofen treatment for 24 hours induced COX‐1 in A375 and CRL‐1620 cells, but not in HT‐29 cells. Meloxicam, another COX‐2 selective inhibitor, reduced COX‐1 levels but increased COX‐2 levels in CRL‐1620 cells. These results suggest that while COX‐1 is considered a constitutive enzyme, its levels can be modulated by COX inhibitors.
Higher Frequency of PMS2 Loss in Colorectal Tumors in Colombian Population
Authors: Shamekh Rania , Cives Mauro , Mejia Jaime , Coppola Domenico
Published: June 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the fourth most common cause of death worldwide. It accounts for over 9% of all cancer. One of the pathogenic factors of CRC is germ line mutation, leading to alteration and inactivation of the mismatch repair (MMR) genes.

The aim of the study is to compare the frequency of alterations in MMR protein expression in CRC of Caucasian as compared to Colombian patients.

Forty five Colombians (21F: 24M; age ranging between 27‐91 years; median 63 years) and 48 Caucasians (21F:27M; age ranging between 35‐92 years; median 65 years) with CRC were studied. The tumors microsatellite instability (MSI) status was determined in primary CRC by immunohistochemistry using the automated Ventana Ultra.

The combined loss of MLH1 and PMS2 was the most common alteration in both Colombians (11%, 5 out of 45) and Caucasians (12%, 6 out of 48) CRC patients. Interestingly, the loss of PMS2 expression in the presence of intact MLH1 was the second most common alteration in Colombians (8%, 4 out of 45) which was never seen in the Caucasians cohort ( p‐value: 蠄0.05). The loss of MLH1 alone and the combined loss of MSH6 and PMS2 expression was only observed in one out of 45 (2%) in Colombians but not in Caucasians. The combined loss of MSH2 and MSH6 was not observed in any of the patients studied. The current findings highlight the significant difference in alterations of MMR protein expression in CRC patients from Colombia compared to Caucasians. These findings are novel and warrant further studies in larger cohorts.