bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative effectiveness of popular diet programs on changes in android and gynoid body composition in women (LB301)
Authors: Springer S , Lockard B , Baetge C , Jung Y , Levers K , Galvan E , Jagim A , Simbo S , Byrd M , Oliver J , Koozehchian M , Dalton R , Khanna D , Kresta J , Sanchez B , Horrell K , Leopold T , Cho M , Rivera A , Cerda C , Chang C , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine if different diet and exercise programs differentially affect android and/or gynoid body composition changes in sedentary women. 127 sedentary women (46±12 yr, 45.5±5% body fat, BMI 35.1±5) were randomized to participate in a control group (C) or the Curves Complete® program with online support (CC), Weight Watchers® Points Plus (WW), Jenny Craig® (JC), or Nutrisystem® Advance Select™ (NS) weight loss programs for 12‐wks. DEXA body composition with android (A) and gynoid (G) measurements were obtained. MANOVA revealed a significant time (p<0.001) and group x time (p=0.006) effects. Participants in the CC group generally lost more A‐FM (C ‐8±421; CC ‐479±462; WW ‐162±410; JC ‐275±406; NS ‐237±456 g, p=0.01), A‐BF (C ‐0.3±2.6; CC ‐2.9±3.6; WW ‐0.4±3.7; JC ‐1.3±3.2; NS ‐1.2±2.5 %, p<0.04), G‐FM (C 73±335; CC ‐823±658; WW ‐392±458; JC ‐709±871; NS ‐430±631, p<0.001), and G‐BF (C 0.0±2.1; CC ‐3.3±2.9; WW ‐0.7±2.6; JC ‐1.6±2.4; NS ‐0.6±1.9 %, p<0.001) with less loss in G‐FFM (C 112±476; CC ‐10±605; WW ‐319±559; JC ‐285±451; NS ‐335±540, p=0.01). No significant differences were seen among groups in A/G ratio, trunk/leg body fat ratio, or trunk/leg lean mass ratio. Results indicate that different types of diets can differentially affect changes in A and G body composition.

Grant Funding Source: Curves International, Inc. (Waco, TX)
Evidence of energy deficiency, using doubly‐labeled water, among adolescent endurance runners (LB316)
Authors: Barrack Michelle , Nichols Jeanne , Rauh Mitchell , Van Loan Marta
Published: June 2021

Background: Inadequate energy intake has been hypothesized to partially contribute to runners’ low BMD levels.

Purpose: To assess the nutritional adequacy of adolescent runners’ diets and identify relationships between runners’ energy status, menstrual function, relevant hormones, biomarkers of bone metabolism, and bone mass.

Methods: Twelve adolescent runners (age 16.0 ± 0.3y) completed a 7‐d food log, daily 24‐hr recalls, and assessments of serum hormones, biomarkers of bone turnover, anthropometrics, menstrual function, sports participation, and training volume. Additionally, they underwent a doubly‐labeled water protocol. Runners provided a baseline urine sample and consumed body weight‐specific cocktails 0.12g·kg‐1 of 2H2O and 0.25g·kg‐1 of H218O. Follow‐up first‐void urine samples were collected on days 1, 3, 5, and 7.

Results: Among the adolescent runners (BMI= 19.7 kg/m2), who ran 31.2 (±11.1) miles/wk, mean (SD) 7‐day energy intake and expenditure values were 2,213.3 (±374.1) kcal and 3,131.6 (±403.3) kcal, respectively. Thus, runners consumed 918.3 (±449.9) kcal less than expended. Current weekly running mileage was inversely related to body weight (r= ‐0.78, p= 0.003), BMI (r= ‐0.66, p=0.02), gynecological age (r= ‐0.58, p= 0.05),serum estradiol (r= ‐0.64, p= 0.02), spine BMD (r= ‐0.77, p= 0.004), spine BMC (r= ‐0.79, p= 0.002), and spine BMD Z‐score (r= ‐0.63, p= 0.03), but positively related to CTX (r= 0.62, p= 0.03),.

Conclusion: Among the runners, energy expended was significantly higher than energy consumed. This energy deficit may have contributed to low BMD, as miles of running per week, a proxy of exercise energy expenditure, correlated with a marker of bone resorption, and was inversely related to body mass, menstrual variables, and bone mass.
Bioactives of Artemisia dracunculus L. ameliorates insulin sensitivity by attenuating inflammatory signalling in human skeletal muscle culture (LB333)
Authors: Vandanmagsar Bolormaa , Haynie Kimberly , Wicks Shawna , Bermudez Estrellita , Mendoza Tamra , Ribnicky David , Cefalu William , Mynatt Randall
Published: June 2021

Obesity‐associated, low‐grade, systemic inflammation is major contributor to obesity‐induced insulin resistance. Impaired insulin signalling in skeletal muscle is a key feature of type 2 diabetes. Bioactives of Artemisia dracunculus L. (termed PMI 5011) have been shown to improve insulin action by increasing insulin signalling in skeletal muscle. However, it has not known if PMI 5011’s effects are retained during an inflammatory condition. We examined the attenuation of insulin action and whether PMI 5011 enhances insulin signalling in the inflammatory environment with elevated cytokines. We found increased inflammation in skeletal muscle tissue of diet‐induced obese mice with upregulated Mcp1, Tnfα, Cxcl5, Cxcl10 and Tnfr1, Tnfr2 gene expressions.

In line with this we detected increases in gene expression of MCP1 and TNFα, and basal activity of the NFkB pathway in myotubes derived from diabetic‐obese subjects as compared to myotubes derived from normal‐lean subjects. Multiplex protein analysis revealed that basal Akt phosphorylation (Ser473) was significantly higher, while insulin‐stimulated phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473) was lower in myotubes from normal‐overweight and diabetic‐obese subjects compared to normal‐lean subjects. PMI 5011 treatment reduced basal phosphorylation of Akt and enhanced insulin‐stimulated phosphorylation of Akt in the presence of cytokines in human myotubes. PMI 5011 treatment led to an inhibition of cytokine‐induced activation of inflammatory signalling pathways such as Erk1/2 and IkBα‐NFkB and moreover, NFkB target gene expression, possibly by preventing further propagation of the inflammatory response within muscle tissue. Thus PMI 5011 improved insulin sensitivity in diabetic‐obese myotubes to the level of normal‐lean myotubes despite the presence of pro‐inflammatory cytokines.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by grants NCAMM (P50AT002776 NIH), ADA (1‐10‐BS‐129), NIH (RO1DK089641), COBRE (NIH 8P20GM103528), NORC (NIH 2P30‐DK072476)
Influence of tomato and lycopene supplementation on the cardiac remodeling after acute myocardial infarction (LB337)
Authors: Minicucci Marcos , Pereira Bruna , Azevedo Paula , Zornoff Leonardo , Polegato Bertha , Okoshi Katashi , Batista Diego , Silva Renata , Gonçalves Andrea , Okoshi Marina , Turini Renan , Santos Priscila , Paiva Sergio
Published: June 2021

Due to its antioxidant properties, tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and one of its primary constituents, lycopene have been evaluated in clinical and experimental studies. Our objective was to evaluate the influence of tomato and lycopene supplementation on the cardiac remodeling after acute myocardial infarction. Wistar rats were assigned to 6 groups: SHAM group, in which animals were submitted to simulated surgery (SHAM group; n=15); SHAM group that received lycopene 1mg/kg of body weight/day in the chow (SHAM‐L group, n=9); SHAM group that received tomato in the chow (SHAM‐T group, n=10); myocardial infarction (MI) group, in which animals were submitted to coronary artery ligation (MI group, n=16); MI group that received lycopene 1mg/kg of body weight/day in the chow (MI‐L group, n=12); and MI group that received tomato in the chow (MI‐T group, n=15). The amount of tomato supplemented had the same quantity of lycopene that was given for the groups supplemented only with this carotenoid. The rats were observed for 3 months. One‐way ANOVA was performed for infarct size comparison and two‐way ANOVA for the others comparisons. Infarct size was not different between groups (MI: 35.0 ± 11.5%; MI‐L: 33.6 ± 11.4%; MI‐T: 33.9 ± 9.7%; p=0.94). In the echocardiographic analysis the MI groups had higher values of left cardiac chambers and mass index compared with the SHAM groups. In addition, diastolic and systolic functions were worse in the MI groups. In this in vivo analysis, lycopene and tomato supplementation did not influence left ventricular morphology and function. Isolated heart study (Langendorff preparation) also showed no effect of lycopene and tomato supplementation in cardiac function. In conclusion, lycopene and tomato supplementation did not attenuate cardiac remodeling after MI.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by FAPESP and CNPq
Knowledge of and Accordance to Dietary Sodium Restrictions in Heart Failure Patients (LB346)
Authors: Mozer Marisa , Sarcinella Kali , Holland Sarah , Tangney Christy , Betz Melanie , Pisani Barbara , Mendez Jose , Rasmussen Heather
Published: June 2021

Lack of knowledge and accordance to the low‐sodium diet (< 2,000 mg) in heart failure (HF) patients has been associated with worsening symptoms, a decrease in quality of life, and hospital re‐admittance rate. Therefore, we surveyed 88 HF patients (mean age ± SD, 54 ± 14 years) from the outpatient clinic at Rush University Medical Center about practical sodium knowledge using the Parkland Sodium Knowledge test (low knowledge 0‐3; high knowledge 4‐10) and accordance to a low‐sodium diet (< 2,000 mg) using the Nutrition Quest Block Sodium Screener. The majority was non‐Hispanic Black (69.3%) and male (56.8%), and median (IQR) for months since HF diagnosis was 14 (3, 28). Median (IQR) knowledge was 7 (3, 10) on a scale of 1 to 10, reflecting high knowledge (71.6% knowledgeable). Many (53.4%) of the patients correctly sorted high‐ and low‐sodium food containers. Only 33% knew the sodium guidelines, and 50% read the sodium component on the food label correctly. Despite high knowledge, 64.8% of HF patients were not accordant to the diet (mean ± SD sodium intake, 2,602 ± 1,412 mg). Barriers to accordance included low‐sodium foods not tasting good (35.2%), low‐sodium foods being expensive (11.4%), and difficulties eating outside the home (28.4%). There was no association between knowledge and accordance to the diet (p = 0.92). Discordance in sodium knowledge and accordance (high knowledge, low accordance) provides evidence for registered dietitians to focus on incorporating behavioral strategies during patient education that address barriers to accordance.
Immunosuppressive effect of deer bone oil extract on LPS‐activated murine macrophage (LB358)
Authors: Im Suji , Choi Hyeon‐son , Suh Hyung Joo
Published: June 2021

Deer antler velvets are known to have effects that they improve various health problems by boosting immune system. We assumed the active ingredients with anti‐inflammatory effects in the deer antler velvets would be in the deer bone and so is the deer bone oil. In this study, we aimed to evaluate anti‐inflammatory action of the deer bone oil in LPS‐induced murine macrophage (RAW264.7 cells). Cytotoxicity of the sample was determined by MTT assay at the concentration range of 0 to 2 mg/ml in DMEM supplemented with 10% (v/v) fetal bovine serum and 1% penicillin/streptomycin. Anti‐inflammatory effects on sample‐treated cells were evaluated by measuring nitric oxide production in the culture medium. Levels of mRNA and protein expressions are analyzed by real time PCR and western blot, respectively. The nitric oxide production and the levels of mRNA and protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were significantly decreased by deer bone oil fraction. In addition, the expressions of mRNA of several inflammatory mediators induced by LPS treatment including COX‐2, IL‐1β, and 1L‐12β were also significantly suppressed by the oil treatment.
Assessment of key food skills among Canadians; results from the Canadian Community Health Survey rapid response modules on food skills (LB380)
Authors: Dorais Véronique , Gilbert Jo‐Anne , Zeitouney Joelle , Gibson Deborah , St‐Pierre Sylvie
Published: June 2021

Food skills contribute to healthier eating; yet, some studies suggest that these skills are declining. This project aims to strengthen our understanding of food skills in Canada and to provide baseline data for monitoring population trends.

Two Canadian Community Health Survey modules on food skills were conducted in Nov‐Dec 2012 (n=9559) and Jan‐Feb 2013 (n=10156) among a representative sample of Canadians aged 12 years and older. Questions focused on measuring cooking ability, the transference of skills to children, meal planning, shopping practices and mechanical cooking skills.

With regards to cooking skills, most Canadians reported that they can prepare most meals (39%) or cook most dishes with a recipe (24%). Approximately 15% of Canadians do not participate in meal preparation. Most adults living with children share a family meal, sitting at the table together either every day (48%) or almost every day (25%). Further, children make suggestions for family meals (67%), help prepare meals (60%) and participate in shopping for groceries (68%) in most households with children. When shopping for groceries, most Canadians plan their meals (62%) and use a grocery list (74%) and nutrition labels (63%). While most Canadians reported being very good at peeling, choping or slicing (63%) and cooking raw meat/chicken/fish (61%), many reported basic to no skills in canning (63%) and freezing (31%).

These findings will help inform the development of intervention and promotion programs focused on improving foods skills in Canada.
Calcium and fat balance and gastrointestinal tolerance in normal term infants fed infant formulas containing a monoglyceride‐based vs triglyceride‐based fat‐blend (LB403)
Authors: Lasekan John , Westcott Jamie , Lai Chron‐Si , Hartley Susan , Oliver Jeffery , Kleiner Hannah , Krebs Nancy
Published: June 2021

Objectives: We investigated effects of monoacylglyceride (MG) and free fatty acids (end products of fat hydrolysis in the gut) inclusion in infant formula’s fat‐blend on calcium and fat absorption.

Methods: A randomized, blinded, 4 wk crossover study evaluated calcium and fat absorption and gastrointestinal tolerance in 2‐4 mo old healthy term infants fed an experimental milk‐based powdered formula containing MG palmitate and soy calcium fatty acids (EF) vs a similar commercial control formula containing triacylglyceride‐based fat‐blend (CF). Balance and tolerance data was based on 12 and 13 evaluable subjects, respectively.

Results: Balance data indicated that percent (%) calcium absorption (primary study variable) was not different (p=0.85) between EF (38+5; mean±SEM) and CF (37+6). Absorbed calcium (mg/kg/day) was numerically higher (16%) with EF, but not statistically different. Percent fat absorption was 5.2% lower (p=0.01) with EF vs CF, but absorbed fat (g/kg/day) was numerically greater (9.4%) with EF. Tolerance data indicated that mean rank stool consistency was firmer (p=0.02) and stool frequency was higher (p=0.01) with EF vs CF. Percentage of yellow stools was higher (p=0.03) and percentage of green stools (p=0.03) was lower with EF vs CF. Mean rank fussiness was lower (p= 0.01) with EF vs CF.

Conclusion: The EF demonstrated similar calcium absorption and good GI tolerance vs the CF, which was a standard formula containing a fat blend with proven efficacy and safe use in normal infants.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by Abbott Nutrition
Nutrient essentiality revisited (LB407)
Authors: Jew Stephanie , Antoine Jean‐Michel , Bourlioux Pierre , Milner John , Tapsell Linda , Yuexin Yang , Jones Peter
Published: June 2021

The objective of this project was to present case studies providing supportive rationale for expanding the definitions and criteria for nutrient essentiality. An environmental scan was conducted for terms used to describe food constituents which may not be considered essential in the traditional sense, yet still provide additional health benefits. A panel of international experts reviewed classic and emerging criteria for essentiality and examined various food constituents not currently considered to be essential, but which possess desirable health effects. The panel considered fiber and plant sterols as good candidates for case studies and presented evidence to justify expanding the list of food constituents regarded as meeting criteria for essentiality. Fiber and plant sterols, although not considered essential for growth, development or survival, were deemed by the panel as essential for sub‐populations such as hypercholesterolemic groups. Furthermore, fiber in the form of prebiotics was regarded as essential as a foodstuff for part of the gut microbiotia. In summary, existing categorization of nutrients as essential needs to be expanded to reflect advances in current science, as well as evolving definitions of the concepts of essentiality. A review of non‐classical compounds, now known to have bioactivity, should be considered for their potential essentiality.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by: Danone Institute International, Palaiseau, France
Green tea extract (GTE) enhances the biliary secretion of dioxin in rats (LB414)
Authors: Juyeon Kim , Sang K. Noh , Sung I. Koo
Published: June 2021

Recently, we have shown that GTE lowers the lymphatic absorption of 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) in rats. The present study was conducted to examine the effect of GTE on the biliary secretion of TCDD in rats. Male rats were fed an AIN‐93G diet with or without (control) GTE at 5 g/kg diet for 2 wk. At 2 wk, rats with bile duct cannulae were infused at 3.0 mL/h for 8 h via a duodenal catheter with a lipid emulsion containing TCDD labeled with 3H (3H‐TCDD) and 396.0 μmol Na‐taurocholate with or without (control) 76.1 mg GTE in PBS buffer. Bile was collected hourly via bile cannulae for 8 h. No significant difference was noted in bile flow (7.7 ± 0.5 mL in GTE‐infused vs. 7.3 ± 0.5 mL in control rats). However, the biliary secretion of 3H‐TCDD was significantly enhanced in rats with GTE (7.2 ± 0.4% dose/8 h), compared with those infused with the lipid emulsion alone (6.5 ± 0.2% dose/8 h). Likewise, GTE significantly increased the biliary output of cholesterol and phospholipid. The results indicate that GTE has a stimulatory effect on the biliary excretion of TCDD in rats. The mechanism(s) by which GTE enhances the biliary secretion of dioxin remains to be elucidated.
Indole‐3‐carbinol (I3C) lowers the lymphatic absorption of cholesterol (CH) in rats (LB415)
Authors: Noh Sang , Kim Juyeon , Choi Hansol , Kong Daecheol
Published: June 2021

Evidence indicates that dietary I3C decreases serum CH and fat. This study was conducted to examine if luminal I3C would affect the lymphatic absorption of CH and other lipids in rats. Adult male rats with lymph cannulae were infused at 3.0 mL/h for 8 h via a duodenal catheter with a lipid emulsion containing 1.0 mg CH labeled with 14C (14C‐CH), 452.0 μmol triolein, 3.1 μmol α‐tocopherol and 396.0 μmol Na‐taurocholate without (13C‐0) or with 16 mg (I3C‐1) or 40 mg I3C (I3C‐2) in PBS buffer (pH, 6.4). Lymph was collected hourly for 8 h. I3C dose‐dependently lowered the lymphatic absorption of 14C‐CH. The cumulative absorptions of 14C‐CH in rats infused with I3C‐0, I3C‐1 and I3C‐2 were 36.3 ± 4.7, 25.7 ± 3.0 and 9.0 ± 1.9% dose, respectively. Likewise, 13C decreased the lymphatic outputs of total fatty acids and α‐tocopherol in a dose dependent manner. I3C at a high dose (I3C‐2) lowered the lymphatic output of total phospholipids, whereas there was no such effect at a lower dose (I3C‐1). The results indicate that I3C has a profound inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of CH and other lipids in rats. Currently, studies are underway to determine whether I3C would affect the absorption of other lipophilic compounds such as persistent organic pesticides.
Metabolic and Inflammatory Signaling are Influenced by Consumption of Polyphenol‐rich Whole‐Fruit Extracts and Purified Phytochemicals in High‐fat Fed Mice (LB419)
Authors: Shay Neil , Sullivan Debra , Hamilton‐Reeves Jill
Published: June 2021

A number of reports show that many different phytochemicals favorably influence metabolism and reduce inflammatory markers. Our trial tested the relative potency of purified compounds or whole foods in parallel, using the high‐fat fed C57BL/6J mouse model. The model tested and ranked effects of fruit extracts derived from apple peel, whole sweet cherries and grapes, along with purified compounds including quercetin, resveratrol, and ellagic acid in an attempt to design more‐potent combinations. Polyphenol‐rich fruit extracts and purified compounds were mixed into a high‐fat (60% of total kcal) obesigenic rodent diet and fed to mice along with low‐fat and high‐fat control diets for 10 weeks. Serum circulating factors were measured using a magnetic bead multiplex assay (Milliplex, Millipore Corp.). Mice fed the high‐fat control diet became obese and lost normal glucose control. Serum insulin levels were >1500 pg/mL in the high‐fat controls versus 90% of the high‐fat level (P< 0.01). Quercetin and extracts from grape, cherry, and apple peel also showed improved insulin levels. C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were higher in all high‐fat diet groups except the mice fed a high‐fat diet containing a grape powder product. Our results point to future research in which we plan to compare the relative impact of mixtures of different commonly‐available whole foods on chronic inflammation.

Grant Funding Source: Blue Mountain Horticultural Society
Relationships between depression and nutrient intake as well as oral health status in community‐dwelling middle‐aged Koreans (LB452)
Authors: Lee Heejin , Hwang Ji‐Yun , Kim Seo‐Jin , Seo Deog‐Gyu , Lee Seung Ku , Shin Chol , Park Yoon Jung
Published: June 2021

Depression becomes one of the worldwide concerns. In Korea, the prevalence of depression has risen sharply and understanding of depression‐related health issues becomes critical. This study aims to examine the relationship between depression and nutrient intakes as well as oral health status among Koreans aged 39‐69 years. We examined 5,020 adults from the Ansan Cohort of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study at baseline. People with and without depression were compared for nutrient intakes, serum indicators and oral health status. Depressed group (DG) had higher levels of serum AST, ALT, r‐GTP, TG, and total cholesterol than non‐depressed group (NDG) did in females. The difference of nutrient intakes between groups was greater in females. Energy intakes had no difference between groups, while protein and fat intakes were lower in DG than NDG. DG less consumed vitamins such as Vit.B2, B3, B6, Vit.C, folate, and Vit.E and minerals such as Ca, K, P, and Zn, even after adjustment for age and BMI. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) for depression was lower in female with higher quartile of Vit.B6 and Fe intake. Intriguingly, depression was related with oral health status. The adjusted OR was increased in DG with the presence of oral dryness than NDG. The results indicated that depression was related with poor nutrient intakes and oral dryness. Further work is needed to clarify the causality association between factors.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by Korea CDC (2001‐347‐6111‐221 and 2002‐347‐6111‐221) and Korean NRF (22A20130012143)
Innervation of cardiac ventricles: an immunohistochemical study in bats (LB46)
Authors: Pauza Audrys , Rysevaite Kristina , Ruksenas Osvaldas , Pauza Dainius
Published: June 2021

Neuroanatomy of cardiac ventricles in bats that are adapted for 5‐7 month long hibernation was not identified so far. We used fluorescent immunolabeling for PGP9.5, TH, ChAT, nNOS, SP, and CGRP in order to detect general, sympathetic, vagal and sensory neural structures on ventricles of three species of hibernating bats. We found ventricles in bats to be highly innervated by a dense ganglionated nerve plexus scattered up to heart apex. Ventricular neurons were mostly positive (+) for ChAT, fewer – for TH or nNOS. Small intensely fluorescent cells, strongly TH(+), were identified as well. Epicardial nerves possessed the CGRP(+) and SP(+) nerve fibers. Employing immunohistochemistry for PGP9.5, we revealed numerous sensory nerve endings distributed widely beneath the mesothelium. These nerve endings were solely positive for PGP 9.5 and possessed a complex morphology that was not demonstrated previously. The present findings offer insights into further studies of the hibernating myocardial cells that are fully resistant to long term hypoxia and apparently controlled by autonomic nervous system in perfection.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Research Council of Lithuania (MIP‐031/2013)
Time trends of cardiovascular disease risk factors in China (LB463)
Authors: Li Yanping , Hu Frank
Published: June 2021

Fueled by rapid urbanization and changes in dietary and lifestyle choices, cardiovascular and other chronic diseases have emerged as a critical public health issue in China. To estimate the time trends of cardiovascular disease risk factors in China, we conducted a systematic review of the national representative studies of cardiovascular disease risk factors in China. The results indicated that the prevalence of hypertension in 2010 reached 33.5% (an estimated 330 million hypertensive patients), and the awareness and control rates were extremely low. Type 2 diabetes is an increasing epidemic in China with more than 100 million people affected. Although the Chinese population has a lower BMI than the global average level, abdominal obesity has become especially common in Chinese adults. Despite tobacco control efforts, the prevalence of smoking in China remains at a high level and domestic production of cigarettes continues to rise. Meanwhile, work and transportation‐related physical activity levels have declined sharply. In conclusion, in parallel with unprecedented pace of urbanization, China has experienced escalating epidemics of obesity and chronic diseases over the past decades, which not only affects physical health and quality of life, but also has serious economic and social consequences.
Use of benthic polychaetes to assess anthropogenic impacts in the southern Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast (LB485)
Authors: Alfarraj saleh
Published: June 2021

Use of benthic polychaetes to assess anthropogenic impacts in the southern Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast SALEH A. AL FARRAJ This paper studied the polychaete community structures and their response to anthropogenic impacts in the southern Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast. Samples were collected from four stations, i.e. Jazan Port, Fisherman’s Port, Corniche North Park and Al Qunfudah, along the southern Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast for benthic polychaetes and environmental variables during July 2012. A total of 75 polychaete taxa were identifi ed from the study area. Spatial trends showed Jazan Port and Fisherman’s Port to have low species abundance, richness and diversity compared to the reference site (Al Qunfudah). Species richness, abundance and diversity were intermediate at Corniche North Park The reference station had the highest species richness, species diversity and evenness with the following dominant polychaete species: Owenia fusiformis, Pista macrolobata, Euclymene africana, Maldane sarsi and Syllis gracilis. Capitella capitata, Cirratulus cirratus and Heteromastides bifi dus were most abundant at Fisherman’s Port and Jazan Port. The study revealed that polychaetes of the southern Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast are sensitive to various types of pollution. The data obtained serve as a baseline against which data obtained on subsequent monitoring can be compared. It is recommended that relevant authorities should carry out a continual assessment on the levels of pollutants in the studied area.

Grant Funding Source: king saud university
Effects of iodinated contrast media on a novel model of vasospasm due to subarachnoid hemorrhage (LB504)
Authors: Nikitina Tatiana , Zavaritskaya Olga , Semenyutin Vladimir , Patzak Andreas , Sendeski Mauricio
Published: June 2021

Objective: Application of iodinated contrast media (CM) in patients with vasospasm after subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) may influence the vascular function of spastic brain vessels, with possible consequences for SAH morbidity and mortality. We developed an in vitro model of vasospasm post SAH to investigate the effects of CM on spontaneous myogenic tone and myogenic response of brain vessels.

Methods: We used a model of isolated, pressurized rat superior cerebellar arteries. Coagulated blood was deployed in the chamber of a perfusion myograph to simulate SAH. Either vehicle or iodixanol was applied intraluminally. Vessel diameter was monitored in stable conditions and during controlled changes of intraluminal pressure. The myogenic response was quantified as the change in the diameter after each change in intraluminal pressure.

Results: Vessels treated with coagulated blood developed a stronger spontaneous myogenic tone compared to the control groups (65.7% and 62.1% in comparison to 77.8% and 78.6% of initial diameter), as well as a significant decrease of the myogenic response. CM did not worsen the myogenic tone and the myogenic response. However, the myogenic response was significantly less impaired for higher pressure changes in vessels exposed to coagulated blood and CM in comparison to coagulated blood alone. The variability of the myogenic response was decreased in the groups receiving CM.

Conclusion: Our in vitro model of cerebral vasospasm reflects the clinical evidence that the autoregulation of cerebral blood flow may be impaired after SAH. CM had no negative influence on vessel spontaneous myogenic tone and myogenic response in this model.
Nematodes Rotifers Tardigrades and Diatoms as Vehicles for the Panspermic Transfer of Microbes (LB51)
Authors: Alharbi Sulaiman , Wainwrigh Milton , Amasha Reda , Al‐Johnny Bassam , Khiyami Mohammad
Published: June 2021

Nematodes Rotifers Tardigrades and Diatoms as Vehicles for the Panspermic Transfer of Microbes

Sulamain Ali Alharbi 1, Mohammad A. Khiyami3, Reda Hassan Amasha 2, Bassam Al‐Johnny 2 and Milton Wainwrigh1,3

1 Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455 Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.

3King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia

2 Biological Sciences Department, faculty of Science‐ KAU, P.O Box: 42799 Jeddah 21551, Saudi Arabia

3 Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, S102TN, UK

3Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, UK

Abstract_Nematodes, rotifers and tardigrades are extremotolerant invertebrates which can survive long periods of stasis brought about by extreme drying and cold. They can also resist the effects of UV radiation, and as result could act as vehicles for the panspermic transfer of microorganisms. Here we show that NRT contain a variety of bacteria and fungi within their bodies in which environment they could be protected from the extremes of the space and released into new cosmic environments. Diatoms were also shown to contain a viable alga and Escherichia coli and so could also act as panspermic vehicles for the transfer of these and perhaps other, microbes through space. Although not studied here, NRT, and possibly diatoms, also carry protozoa and viruses within their bodies and could act as vehicles for the panspermic transfer of an even wider range of microbes than shown here.
The pulmonary vessel adventitia: role in the pathology of fat embolism (LB511)
Authors: Kesh Susamita , Molteni Agostino , Stevens Todd , Herndon Betty
Published: June 2021

Background/rationale: Fat embolism (FE) a clinical presentation where fat droplets from site of injury are intravasated into the venous system and sequestered into the lungs is common following long bone fractures. Although considered subclinical, severe cases occur with mortality. Our animal models have shown progressive pulmonary fibrosis from FE with early respiratory distress. Vascular adventitial layer has recently been identified as a first responder to vascular stress or injury, characterized by chemokine/cytokine generation that activates functional vessel wall remodeling. Does FE progress through adventitial responses? Methods. With University clearance, FE was created in rats with 0.2 mL marrow‐like lipid I.V. (triolein) [n=18]or saline [n=18) followed at 6 weeks by a “second hit” on the lung by low dose LPS or saline (9 each dose/group). Lungs were studied at 48 hr following the LPS or saline, with emphasis on the pulmonary response to FE, exacerbated or not by LPS. BAL cells were counted, vessels stained (H&E, trichrome). Arterial layers were measured at 400x by researchers unaware of treatment groups.

Results: PMN counts increased by 15% in the FE group over saline at 6 weeks. LPS produced a PMN BAL count threefold over saline. FE‐treated lungs at 6 weeks were inflamed with greater cellularity in the adventitial layer. When LPS was added to FE‐treated lungs the adventitia thickness difference vs saline showed p=0.11. Controls alone showed p=0.58.

Summary: Arterial adventitial layer in lungs after FE is increased in thickness and cellularity; added LPS increases thickness. Percent PMN in BAL is significantly elevated by FE alone. Identification of the cells (and their secretions) that proliferate in the adventitia after FE remains an immediate goal.

Grant Funding Source: Geldmacher Foundation Grant to GS
Physical training performance in the prevention of hepatic steatosis induced by a high fructose intake (LB519)
Authors: NAKAMOTO DEBORA , FARAH DANIELA , ANDRADE ROMARIO , NUNES JONAS , JUNIOR EDUARDO , FIORINO PATRICIA , FARAH VERA
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was examine the effects exercise training into prevent the hepatic steatosis induced by a high fructose intake in rats from weaning to adulthood.

Weaned male Wistar Rats with 21 days old (50‐60g) were divided into (n=5 each): Sedentary control (SC); Trained control (TC); Sedentary fructose (SF) and Trained fructose (TF).

Fructose‐drinking rats received D‐fructose during 8 weeks (100 g/l). The trained animals were assigned to a treadmill training protocol during 1 h/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks. Measurements of triglyceride concentrations, white adipose tissue and piruvate tolerance test and glucose tolerance test were carried out to evaluate metabolic profile. At the end of the e experimental protocol, the animals were euthanized and a piece of the liver was collected for histological evaluation.

Fructose induced dyslipidemia and glucose intolerance in SF and TF groups. Moreover, SF showed a decrease in the pyruvate tolerance test when compared to SC. Despite it was not observed significant changes in body weight between the groups, fructose induced an increase in adiposity mass. The liver weight was not different between the groups, however fructose induced an increase in % of liver fat cells in SF when compared to SC (8.3% ± 0.48 vs. 5.6% ± 0.61, p<0.001) and in TF compared to TC (3.5% ± 0.2 vs. 1.9% ± 0.30, p<0.0001). When we compared TC vs. SC the percentage was significantly higher in AS (5.6% ± 0.61 vs. 1.9% ± 0.30, p<0.0001). And the last analysis showed higher percentage in SF when compared with TF (8.2% ± 0.48 vs. 3.5% ± 0.23, p<0.0001) Findings indicate that a high fructose diet significantly increase the percentage of fat in the liver, which may lead to Hepatic Steatosis. This study suggests that physical exercise can be used as a non‐pharmacological treatment, since we found a decrease in the percentage of fat in the liver in trained animals.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by MACKPESQUISA/PIBIC CNPQ
Exercise training and MAPK protein expression in rats with heart failure (LB521)
Authors: Gomes Mariana , Martinez Paula , Campos Dijon , Damatto Ricardo , Pagan Luana , Lima Aline , Bonomo Camila , Matsimbe Ana , Juma Buanansa , Okoshi Katashi , Okoshi Marina
Published: June 2021

This study examined whether exercise training influences physical capacity, cardiac remodeling, and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) expression in skeletal muscle of rats with pressure overload‐induced heart failure. Methods: Twenty weeks after inducing aortic stenosis (AS), Wistar rats were assigned to four groups (n=8): sham sedentary (Sed), Sham exercise (Ex), AS, and AS‐Ex. Physical training was performed 5 times per week for 8 weeks in a treadmill. Physical performance was assessed by exercise test on a treadmill with a gradual speed increase before and after the training period. Transthoracic echocardiogram was performed before and after training. Protein expression was analyzed by Western blot in soleus muscle. Statistical analyzes: ANOVA and Tukey test. Results: Before training, echocardiographic parameters did not differ between AS and AS‐Ex groups. Physical training improved functional capacity without changing cardiac structures or left ventricular function. Right ventricle weight was higher in both AS than Sham groups [Sed 0.23 (0.21‐0.24); Ex 0.26 (0.22‐0.29); AS 0.45 (0.36‐0.56); AS‐Ex 0.46 (0.40‐0.56) g]. Total p38, p‐p38 and total JNK did not differ between groups. Phosphorylated‐JNK was lower in AS‐Ex than AS group (Sed 1.00±0.17; Ex 0.95±0.17; AS 1.34±0.17; AS‐Ex 0.57±0.18; p=0.007). Conclusion: Exercise training improves physical capacity without changing left ventricular remodeling, and decreases p‐JNK in soleus muscle of heart failure rats. Support: FAPESP and CNPq.
High fat diet administration increases circulating 12‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid levels in a mouse model of inflammatory disorders (LB535)
Authors: Fung Victor , Hough Greg
Published: June 2021

Introduction: 12‐hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12‐HPETE) is a product of oxidation of arachidonic acid (C20:4). HPETEs are prooxidant molecules that can lead to stimulation of several metabolic pathways resulting in an inflammatory condition in many organs. Fortunately our organism has evolved to use mechanisms to convert the potent 12‐HPETE to a lesser active molecule 12‐ hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, 12‐HETE. Still elevated levels of 12‐HETE are undesirable in most circumstances. We sought to determine the effect of a high fat diet in an animal model of inflammation namely ApoE deficient mouse. Methods: Three to four month old apoE deficient mice (n=20 per treatment group) were maintained on chow or Western type (WD) diet. After two weeks, the mice were fasted overnight and blood was removed, carefully protected from oxidative modification (addition of 20 uM BHT) and was cryopreserved. Using SepPak columns and a Q 4000 mass spectrometer, the plasma levels of 12‐HETE were determined. The data was analyzed using the software supplied by the manufacturer and statistical significance determined using ANOVA. Results: a high fat diet amplified the circulating levels of 12‐HETE which can activate pathways that produce inflammatory molecules. Conclusion: reducing fat consumption can lead to reduced level of plasma oxidized fatty acids which help alleviate the inflammatory pressure.
microRNA 146a is a critical regulator of inflammation that contributes to development of diabetic nephropathy (LB538)
Authors: Bhatt Kirti
Published: June 2021

microRNA 146a is a critical regulator of inflammation that contributes to development of diabetic nephropathy Kirti Bhatt, Linda Lanting, Ye Jia, Marpadga A Reddy, Mark Boldin, Rama Natarajan Departments of Diabetes and Molecular Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010 Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the leading causes of End Stage Renal Disease. Innate immunity and inflammation are known to play a role in the pathogenesis of diabetes and the associated complications. MicroRNAs have recently emerged as potent regulators of DN. However, the role of microRNAs in inflammation associated with the development of DN is not clearly understood. Here we examined the hypothesis that the anti‐inflammatory microRNA, miR‐146a may be dysregulated in DN and modulates disease progression. miR‐146a up regulation was consistently observed in the peritoneal macrophages as well as renal cortical tissues of diabetic mice. Importantly, key parameters of DN were significantly greater in diabetic miR‐146a deficient mice relative to wild type (WT). 16 weeks after induction of diabetes with streptozotocin, significant increase in proteinuria, macrophage infiltration, glomerular hypertrophy and fibrosis were observed in the miR‐146a null mice as compared to the WT group. Mechanistically, the expression of pro‐inflammatory (MCP‐1, TNF‐α) and pro‐fibrotic (TGF‐β, CTGF, Col1a2) genes was significantly elevated in the kidneys of diabetic miR‐146a null mice relative to WT. Furthermore, miR‐146a target genes Traf 6 and Irak 1 were up‐regulated in the renal cortical tissues of diabetic miR‐146a null mice as compared to the WT mice. Together, these results suggest that miR‐146a plays an anti‐inflammatory role in the kidney by negatively regulating inflammatory signaling and fibrosis to confer protection from the development of DN. They also suggest the novel involvement of inflammation and immune modulatory microRNA‐dependent mechanisms in DN.
PPARα agonist protects Aristolochic acid‐induced nephropathy by increasing mediated lipid metabolism (LB554)
Authors: Yeh Ching‐Hua , Wei Tsui‐Shan , Hsing Chung‐Hsi
Published: June 2021

Backgrounds: Aristolochic acids is a nephrotoxic compounds found in some Chinese herbal medicine which induces aristolochic acids‐induced nephropathy (AAN). This study aimed to investigate the role of PPARα□and it mediated lipid metabolism in AAN. Materials and Methods: In vivo, mice were intreperitoneally injected with AA 5 mg/kg for continuous five days to induce AAN. Clofibrate (150 mg/kg) and statin (1 mg/kg) were administrated by gavage for two weeks before AA injection. Kidney injury and renal function changes were observed in AAN mice. The gene expression related to lipid metabolism as well as inflammation, fibrosis and cell death in the kidney of AAN mice were analyzed by RT‐PCR and western blot. In vitro, PPARα□and cellular lipid regulating gene changes in rat renal tubular (NRK52E) cell were analyzed under AA stimulation with or without PPARα□agonists including clofibrate, fenofibrate and OEA treatment. The protective effects of statin or clofibrate on cell viability were determined by MTT and LDH assays. The biomarkers for renal damage such as BMP‐7, Bcl‐xL, caspase 3 and connexin 43 were also analyzed. Results: In the AA‐injected mice, clofibrate, but not statin, improved the renal function and increase the renal PPARα expression. Clofibrate recovered the expression of lipid metabolism‐related genes such as adipocyte protein 2(aP2), lipoprotein lipase(LpL), CD36, fatty acid synthase(FAS) and ApoE in the kidney of mice which decreased by AA treatment. In addition, clofibrate treatment decreased inflammatory genes, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, MCP‐1, iNOS, Cox‐1 and Cox‐2 in the kidney of AAN mice. Moreover, clofibrate increased renal expression of BMP‐7, Bcl‐xL and connexin 43 expression while reduced TGF‐β, collagen IV, fibronectin, RAGE and caspase 3 in AAN mice. In AA‐stimulated NRK52Es, PPARα agonists prevented AA‐induced renal cell death, inflammation and abnormality of lipid metabolism. The renal protective effect of PPARα in NRK52E cell was blocked by treating with PPARα antagonist, MK886. Conclusion: Clofibrate could attenuates aristolochic acid nephropathy by increasing PPARα activity and it mediated lipid metabolism.
Changes in cytoplasmic calcium in endothelial cells and monocytes treated with estrogen (LB58)
Authors: Baig Maarij , Love Maia , Phelan Doug , Cho Ellen , McGuinness Michael
Published: June 2021

Estrogen is a hormone which exerts its effects in different physiological processes including the initiation and progress of inflammation. In addition to nuclear receptors, estrogen binds to plasma membrane receptors and activates signal transduction pathways. This study explores the role of calcium in estrogen regulated signal transduction from the plasma membrane. For this, Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVEC) and monocytes (THP‐1) were treated with estrogenic compounds (200nM) and calcium labeled using a calcium green indicator and cells were visualized and measured using confocal microscopy. In THP‐1 cells and HUVEC cells, calcium decreased in the perinuclear cytoplasm. Decreases in Calcium were measured in THP‐1 cells treated with 17β‐estradiol (16 fold), Diethylstilbestrol (DES, 4 fold), Genistein (6 fold), and Daidzein (14 fold). Similarly, decreases were observed in HUVEC cells treated with 17β‐estradiol (9 fold), DES (1 fold), Genistein (3 fold), and Daidzein (6 fold). Overall levels of intracellular calcium were not altered. Thus, the changes in perinuclear cytoplasmic calcium may be due to the movement of calcium to the plasma membrane in response to estrogen treatments.
Baccatin III inhibits the accumulation and suppressive activity of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in tumor‐bearing mic (LB584)
Authors: Lee Chong‐Kil , Lee Young‐Hee , Park Chan‐Su , Im Sun‐A
Published: June 2021

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) mediate tumor‐associated immune suppression in both cancer patients and tumor‐bearing animals. Reduction or elimination of MDSCs reduces the rate of tumor progression and improves cancer therapies that employ mechanisms of immunity. Here we show that baccatin III, which is the precursor for the semisynthesis of paclitaxel, exerts antitumor immunomodulatory activity in very low doses (0.05 ‐ 0.5 mg/kg), although it is regarded as an inactive derivative of paclitaxel. Oral administration of baccatin III significantly reduced the growth of tumors induced by engrafting mice with either 4T1 mammary carcinoma or CT26 colon cancer cells. Antitumor activity was immune‐mediated because baccatin III was not directly cytotoxic. Baccatin III decreased the accumulation of MDSCs in the spleens of the tumor‐bearing mice. Furthermore, MDSCs isolated from baccatin III‐treated mice, compared with those isolated from vehicle‐treated mice, had a significantly reduced suppressive effect on T cells treated with the anti‐CD3 and anti‐CD28 monoclonal antibodies. Moreover, these cells produced significantly reduced amounts of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide. These results demonstrate that baccatin III reduced tumor progression by inhibiting the accumulation and suppressive function of MDSCs.
Ceramide is necessary for cigarette smoke‐induced reduced heart mitochondrial function (LB649)
Authors: Tippetts Trevor , Bikman Benjamin
Published: June 2021

Cigarette smoke exposure increases risk of multiple cardiovascular complications, including heart failure, heart attack, and atherosclerosis. Given that ceramides are both produced in the lung with smoke exposure and are known to alter cardiovascular function, we hypothesized that ceramides may mediate the deleterious effect of smoking on heart mitochondrial function. Employing cell and animal models, we explored the effect of cigarette smoke on myocardial cell mitochondrial function. Muscle cells were treated with conditioned media from cigarette smoke extract (CSE)‐exposed lung cells, followed by analysis of ceramides and assessment of mitochondrial function. H9C2 cardiomyocytes cells treated with CSE‐exposed conditioned medium suffered a dramatic reduction in mitochondrial respiration. These effects were mitigated when lung cells were treated with the ceramide inhibitor myriocin prior to and during CSE exposure. Mice were exposed to daily cigarette smoke for 12 wk and received either PBS or myriocin injections. At the conclusion of the period, heart ceramide and mitochondrial function was determined. Daily cigarette smoke exposure in PBS‐, but not myriocin‐treated animals, resulted in elevated heart ceramide levels and reduced ceramide mitochondrial respiration. Thus, ceramide inhibition appears to prevent heart mitochondrial dysfunction with smoke exposure.