bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plan for the Registered Dietitian Identification and Documentation of Adult Inpatients
Authors: Browning Maria , Roberts Beth , Kingery Joanna , Carter Kimberly , Hines Courtney , Gardus‐Pizlo Irmina , Roberts Scott
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the policy was to support the change in procedure to identify and document malnutrition in adult patients admitted to Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital.

Retrospective data analysis was used to identify the current state of patients diagnosed with malnutrition at Indiana University Health. Once the new policy was complete and initiated a second data analysis was completed to see if there was a change in the incidence and specificty of the malnutrition diagnosis on patients discharge from IU health Methodist and university hospitals.

Intial results indicated that less than 1% of patients discharged form Indiana University Health Methodist in August of 2013 were coded for severe malnutrition or moderate malnutrition. This is significantly less than the predicted 30% of patients in acute care settings. After implementation of the malnturition policy, the incidence of malnutrition diagnosis from August 2014 increase more than 500% to 5%of patients discharged from Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital

August 2013
August 2014
%Change

Severe Protein Calorie Malnutrition
13/2668 (0.5%)
83/2682 (3.1%)
+538%

Moderate Malnutrition
9/2668 (0.34%)
52/2682 (1.9%)
+477%

Although there is still a long way to go in improving the diagnosis of patients with malnutrition, the first month of implementation showed the new policy and procedure to be much more effective in identifying and documenting malnutrition in adult patients hospitalized at Indiana University Health.
Delivery Mode and Neonate Gut Microbiota
Authors: Mueller Noel , Pizoni Aline , Goldani Helena , Werlang Isabel , Matte Ursula , Goldani Marcelo , Shin Hakdong , Dominguez‐Bello M
Published: June 2021

Background

C‐section (CS) babies have elevated risk of obesity, perhaps due to differences in gut microbiota during critical windows of metabolic programming. While known that the newborn gut microbiota differ by delivery mode, it is unclear when these differences emerge.

Aims

Here we examine how delivery mode is associated with microbiota in neonate 1st (meconium) and 2nd stool.

Methods

Our study comprises 62 neonates born by elective CS and 21 by vaginal delivery (VD) from Porto Alegre, Brazil. Bacterial V4 16SrRNA region was sequenced with the Illumina platform. Analyses were performed using QIIME. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) method, which integrates statistical significance and biologic relevance, was used to compare the gut microbiota between CS and VD babies.

Results

In the meconium, there were no differences in microbial diversity or community structure between CS and VD babies. However, in the 2nd stool, compared to CS babies, VD neonates had greater relative abundance of 4 phylotypes, including Bacteroides genus, and lower relative abundance of 19 phylotypes.

image

Compared to VD babies, the 2nd stool from CS babies also appeared to have more microbial diversity, but this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.33). Findings were similar across pregnancy weight strata.

Conclusions

CS babies have disrupted gut microbiota compared to VD babies, but, in our study, these differences do not emerge until the 2nd stool. Further research is needed to elucidate what determines the microbial composition of meconium, and whether the differences in 2nd stool microbiota by delivery mode have long‐term health consequences.
Metabolite Profiling In Plasma and Tissues of ob/ob‐/‐ and db/db‐/‐ Mice Identifies Novel Markers of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Giesbertz Pieter , Spanier Britta , Rein Dietrich , Daniel Hannelore
Published: June 2021

Metabolomics approaches in humans have identified around 40 plasma metabolites associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D often coincides with obesity. To be able to separate diabetes‐associated from obesity‐associated effects on plasma metabolites we used two mouse models, one with pure obesity (ob/ob‐/‐) and another with diabetes in addition (db/db‐/‐). In these mice, we profiled plasma, liver, skeletal muscle and adipose tissue using GC‐MS and LC‐MS/MS. We identified 24 metabolites specifically associated with diabetes but not with obesity. Amongst those known markers such as 1,5‐anhydrosorbitol and 3‐hydroxybutyrate as well as glyoxylate were identified. New metabolites in the diabetic model were lysine, O‐phosphotyrosine, and branched‐chain fatty acids. In addition, we identified 33 metabolites that were similarly altered in both models, represented by branched‐chain amino acids, glycine, serine, pantothenic acid, trans‐4‐hydroxyproline, and a large number of lipids and derivatives. Correlation analyses showed stronger associations for concentrations of amino acids between plasma and adipose tissue in db/db‐/‐ mice as compared to ob/ob‐/‐ mice, suggesting an increased role for adipose tissue in the diabetic state. Taken together, by studying mice with metabolite signatures that resemble the metabolic syndrome in the human condition, we have found new metabolite entities that offer starting points for studies in human cohorts.
Mixed methods approach to characterize longitudinal food insecurity and coping strategies in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Ambikapathi Ramya , Yori Pablo , Rothstein Jessica , Paredes Olortegui Maribel , Lee Gwenyth , Kosek Margaret , Caulfield Laura
Published: June 2021

Food insecurity, defined as the capacity to acquire preferred food at all times, can manifest into many levels. Following the methods of Frongillo et al in Bangladesh and Burkina Faso, we used experience‐based measures in the Peruvian Amazon, including measures of food purchases (staples, meat, vegetables, fruits, condiments), frequency of purchase, location of acquisition (market, corner store, city), food expenses and coping mechanisms (gardening, crediting, gifting, fishing) in the last 7 days as a proxy for food insecurity. Initially, interviews with community workers were used to identify frequently purchased food items, local coping practices and food acquisition strategies (57 items). The survey was piloted among 35 randomly selected participants from the Peru Malnutrition Enteric Disease (MAL‐ED) birth cohort. After pile sorting the surveys, the tool was reduced to 39 items and used monthly to survey families of 195 children 18‐51 months of age from November 2013‐2014. In this analysis, we show data (6 months follow‐up) on reliability and validity of this tool developed in Santa Clara, Peru. Food purchase (20 items) has a Cronbach's α of .71 and frequency of purchase has α of .81. The median food expense per person per day is USD 0.85 (IQR 0.58, 1.13) and at least 27% of the families at any time point purchased food on credit. We aim to establish construct validity through economic assets, food intakes and dietary adequacy. By evaluating the reliability and validity, we aim to characterize changes in coping strategies and levels of food insecurity over time, particularly in relation to the adequacy of diets among children under 5 years of age in this community.
Influence of Inflammation on Breast Milk Retinol Concentrations of Apparently Healthy Women in Rural Zambia
Authors: Palmer Amanda , Chileshe Justin , Barffour Maxwell , Hall Andrew , West Keith , Haskell Marjorie
Published: June 2021

Breast milk retinol concentration may be less influenced by inflammation than plasma retinol. However, evidence is available from only a single study which was conducted in early lactation. We investigated this question in a cross‐sectional sample of apparently healthy, lactating mothers (n=144) at 4‐12 months postpartum in rural Zambia. We measured milk and plasma retinol by HPLC and inflammatory proteins by ELISA. Inflammation (CRP > 5 mg/L and/or AGP > 1 g/L) was highly prevalent (69.2%), even though women with malaria parasitemia and/or fever or diarrhea in the past week were excluded from the study. Women with inflammation were older and had both higher parity and BMI. Unadjusted analyses suggested an elevated prevalence of low plasma retinol (7.4 vs. 2.3%; p=0.23), but reduced prevalence of low milk retinol (51.5 vs. 65.1%; p=0.14), with concurrent inflammation. In adjusted models; however, only plasma retinol was significantly associated with inflammatory proteins (p=0.04 for test of CRP and AGP parameters). Inflammatory proteins were not associated with milk retinol, expressed either as vitamin A per volume (μmol/L; p=0.63) or per gram milk fat (μg/g fat; p=0.37). Our findings are consistent with prior research, suggesting that breast milk retinol concentration may be useful for evaluating vitamin A interventions in populations with a high prevalence of infection and/or subclinical inflammation.
Identification and Characterization of Tocotrienols in Muscadine Grape Seed Oil and their Inhibitory Effects on Adipogenesis and Inflammation
Authors: Zhao Lu , Yagiz Yavuz , Xu Changmou , Jiang Lu , Chung Soonkyu , Marshall Maurice
Published: June 2021

Tocotrienols are unsaturated forms of vitamin E that accumulate in adipose tissue where they exert potent anti‐adipogenic and anti‐inflammatory effects compared to saturated vitamin E, tocopherols. Tocotrienols have been known to exist in a limited variety of vegetable oils such as rice bran and red palm oil. However, we have recently found that muscadine grape seed oils (MGSOs), byproducts of wine making, contain high levels of α‐ and γ‐tocotrienol. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of MGSOs in reducing adipogenesis and inflammation by using primary human adipose‐derived stem cells (hASCs). Differentiating hASCs were treated with MGSOs in comparison with rice bran and olive oil. TG accumulation was significantly lower in MGSOs‐treated hASCs than the other edible oils. A tocotrienols rich fraction (TRF) from MGSOs was prepared by solid phase extraction and used to treat hASCs. The MGSOs‐derived TRF significantly reduced the mRNA and protein expression of genes that are crucial to adipogenesis (e.g., PPARg and aP2). Furthermore, TRF from MGSOs markedly reduced LPS‐induced proinflammatory gene expression and cytokine secretion to the media (IL‐6 and IL‐8). Taken together, our results demonstrated that MGSOs are a significant source for tocotrienols that may attenuate hyperplastic obesity and obesity‐induced adipose inflammation.
Frontline Worker (FLW) Knowledge and Motivation Influence Maternal Exposure to Complementary Feeding Counseling at Home
Authors: Avula Rasmi , Kim Sunny , Tyagi Parul , Chakrabarti Suman , Menon Purnima
Published: June 2021

Home‐visit based counseling is a proven intervention to improve complementary feeding (CF) practices. In India, CF counseling is to be delivered by FLWs ‐ Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) but program experience with CF counseling is limited. We surveyed 588 FLWs and 1183 households in Odisha state to assess the status and determinants of delivery of counseling and other nutrition interventions. Regression analysis was used to study FLW and maternal determinants of maternal exposure to CF counseling. Outcome variable: mother received CF advice at home visit; independent variables (FLW): FLW characteristics, knowledge, sources of motivation, training; independent variables (maternal): demographic characteristics and socio‐economic status. Although most mothers received home visits from FLWs (76% from AWWs and 88% from ASHAs), <30% received CF advice in those visits. FLW motivation to help others (AWW: OR=2.9; CI: 1.61, 5.20; ASHA: OR = 2.2; CI: 1.19, 4.17) and CF knowledge (AWW: OR=2.3; CI: 1.28, 4.39; ASHA: OR = 3.6; CI: 2.12, 6.19) were associated with higher maternal exposure to CF advice. ASHAs' motivation to work for income lowered the odds of exposure to CF advice (OR=0.20; CI: 0.114, 0.371); ASHAs typically receive performance‐based incentives, which could limit their motivation to deliver non‐incentivized interventions. Our study highlights the role of FLW CF knowledge, intrinsic motivation to help others and extrinsic motivation from income as determinants of maternal exposure to CF counseling. Investments in building FLW knowledge and incentivizing or regularizing payment for counseling could improve CF counseling coverage. Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, through POSHAN, led by IFPRI
A Diet Containing EGCG and Beta‐Alanine Decreases Mortality and Improves Balance in Aged Mice, but Does Not Affect Cognitive Function
Authors: Pence Brandt , Bhattacharya Tushar , Park Pul , Sun Yi , Rytych Jennifer , Allen Jacob , McCusker Robert , Kelley Keith , Johnson Rodney , Rhodes Justin , Woods Jeffrey
Published: June 2021

We have shown that 40 days on a diet containing epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and beta‐alanine (B‐Ala) was not effective in improving cognitive or muscle function in aged (18 mo) mice (Gibbons et al. Behav Brain Res 2014). However, ECGC+B‐Ala diet reduced oxidative stress in the brain, and previous studies using longer interventions have documented beneficial effects on cognition. Therefore, we investigated the effect of 6 mo of ECGC+B‐Ala on measures of cognitive and muscle function in mice. Male Balb/c mice (12 mo, N=15/group) were fed AIN‐93M containing 0.15% EGCG and 0.34% B‐Ala or standard AIN‐93M for 6 mo, then underwent tests for cognitive and muscle function. Interestingly, a higher percentage of mice receiving EGCG+B‐Ala (80%) survived to study end compared to control (40%, p=.02). ECGC+B‐Ala did not affect novel arm preference in the Y‐maze (p=.74) and did not alter performance in an active avoidance test (p=.16). ECGC+B‐Ala increased rotarod performance (p=.03), did not affect grip strength (p=.91), and decreased time to exhaustion in a treadmill test (p=.02). In conclusion, ECGC+B‐Ala may reduce mortality, but this did not directly relate to changes in cognitive or muscle function.
Relationship between Infant Breast Milk Exposure and Impulse Control during Adolescence
Authors: Darcey Valerie , Stevens Benson , VanMeter John , Rose Emma , Fishbein Diana
Published: June 2021

Infant diet influences neurodevelopment, yet the direct impact of early diet on neural circuits that underlie impulse control, which are critical for regulating risky behaviors, is not well understood. Here we examined teen prefrontal cortical (PFC) structure and behavioral outcomes in relation to breast milk intake during the first 6 months of life

Participants were alcohol‐naïve teens enrolled in a longitudinal neuroimaging study. Mothers completed a survey on infant diet. Exclusively breastfed (BF) were matched to exclusively formula‐fed (F) teens (each N=14).

Exclusive Breastfed (BF)
Exclusive Formula (F)
p (2‐tailed)

Matched characteristics

N
14
14
‐‐

Age (years)
12.5+0.6
12.2+0.9
NS

Gender (% female)
64.3%
64.3%
NS

Race (% Caucasian)
35.7%
35.7%
NS

Maternal education (% > high school education)
64.3%
64.3%
NS

Other characteristics

Maternal age at delivery (years)
31.9+4.7
34.0+6.8
NS

Teen BMI (kg/m2)
19.2+3.9
22.9+5.2
0.042

Teen birth weight (oz.)
118.1+29.7
117.3+19.8
NS

Teen birth length (inches)
20.2+1.5
20.7+1.2
NS

Impulsivity and risk‐taking were assessed via Go/No‐go and Wheel of Fortune tasks. Parents rated teens on the BRIEF Inhibition subscale. PFC gray matter volumes (GMV) were derived from 3T T1 MPRAGE images. Images meeting quality standards (11 BF; 10 F) were analyzed via VBM.

Compared to BF teens, F teens were less inhibited and tended toward greater impulsivity, but did not differ in risky choices. There was a trend toward interaction of group and GMV in the middle orbital gyrus predicting risky choices in F teens.

Exclusive Breastfed (BF)
Exclusive Formula (F)
p (2‐tailed)

BRIEF‐Inhibition score
12.9+3.1
16.1+3.9
0.021

Go/No‐Go (% commission errors)
45.0+16.5
55.3+13.7
0.084

Wheel of Fortune (average % high risk selections)
51.0+6.0
49.0+6.0
NS

Average GMV in Frontal Middle Orbital Gyrus, R (BA11)
0.23+0.02
0.22+0.02
NS

image

This preliminary analysis suggests exclusive breast milk in the first 6 months of life facilitates impulse control years later. In contrast, exclusive formula diet may influence neurodevelopment in a manner that predicts risky choices. Determining how this complex relationship is mediated by dietary factors that benefit brain maturation and mitigate risk taking may improve health outcomes.
Higher Intakes of Fruits and Vegetables, α‐Linolenic Acid, Vitamin E and β‐carotene are Associated with Improved Periodontal Healing after Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Ward Wendy , Dodington David , Fritz Peter , Sullivan Philip
Published: June 2021

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease and risk factor for tooth loss. While a link between diet and periodontal health exists, the relationship between diet and healing following periodontal therapy has yet to be investigated. This study determined if higher intakes of foods and nutrients with antioxidant or anti‐inflammatory activity in patients (n=63) with chronic generalized periodontal disease are associated with greater healing – measured as reduced probing depth (PD) ‐ following scaling and root planing (SRP). SRP is a first line cost‐effective treatment to manage periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss. PD was assessed at baseline and between 8 and 16 weeks following SRP. Intakes of fruits, vegetables, β‐carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, α‐linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were estimated using the Block 2005 food frequency questionnaire and a supplement use questionnaire. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured using an automated immunoassay. PD (% sites > 3 mm) was modeled in multiple linear regression analyses and adjusted for age, sex, BMI, baseline PD, examiner and gingival bleeding. PD was associated with fruit and vegetable intake (β = ‐0.29, p = 0.012), dietary β‐carotene intake (β = ‐0.26, p = 0.027), dietary vitamin E intake (β = ‐0.26, p = 0.043), and dietary ALA intake (β = ‐0.24, p = 0.035) but not other intakes or supplements or serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D. In conclusion, higher intakes of fruits and vegetables, ALA, vitamin E and β‐carotene are associated with reduced PD after SRP and may optimize healing after a periodontal procedure.
A Healthy Lifestyle Score is Associated with Inflammation Markers among Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Sotos‐Prieto Mercedes , Bhupathiraju Shilpa , Falcon Luis , Gao Xiang , Tucker Katherine , Mattei Josiemer
Published: June 2021

The role of multiple lifestyle components analyzed in combination on inflammatory markers remains understudied. We aimed to assess the association between a Healthy Lifestyle Score (HLS) that includes five behavioral components (diet, physical activity and sedentary behaviors, smoking, social support and network, and sleep) and inflammatory markers in Puerto Rican adults. In a cross‐sectional study, the HLS, ranging from 0 (unhealthy) to190 (healthiest), was developed in 842 Puerto Ricans living in Boston (aged 45‐75 y). Multivariable‐adjusted models were used to test association between the HLS and biomarkers of inflammation. The HLS was inversely associated with interleukin (IL)‐6 (β±SE =‐0.55 ± 0.13; P<0.001) and tumor necrosis factor‐alfa (TNFα) (‐0.39 ± 0.13; P=0.004) after adjustment for potential confounders. The dietary and the smoking components of the HLS were independently associated with inflammatory markers. Significant inverse associations were observed for each 20‐unit increase in HLS and IL‐6 and TNFα for participants with hypertension (‐0.57 ± 0.17; ‐0.35 ± 0.17, respectively) and with obesity (‐0.56 ± 0.14; ‐0.48 ± 0.15, respectively), but not for those with diabetes or heart disease. The HLS was not associated with C‐reactive protein, after adjustment for potential confounders. In conclusion, higher adherence to multiple lifestyle behaviors was associated with lower concentrations of biomarkers of inflammation. Because hypertension and obesity may be mediated through inflammation, following an overall healthy lifestyle may help reduce risk of these diseases.
Epigenetic Mechanisms by Which Chemoprotective Natural Compounds Promote RXR/FXR Signaling and Reduce Colon Cancer Progression
Authors: Triff Karen , Knight Jason , Ivanov Ivan , Zhou Beiyan , Chapkin Robert
Published: June 2021

Chemoprotective natural compounds include amphiphilic n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) found in fish oil, and butyrate, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, generated in the colonic lumen via the fermentation of fiber by gut microbes. Using preclinical models, we have demonstrated that n‐3 PUFA and butyrate synergistically reduce colon tumor development by increasing targeted apoptosis of DNA damaged cells, thus reducing tumorigenesis. Therefore, we assessed epigenetic reprogramming using high‐resolution transcriptome and chromatin state maps from epithelial cells isolated from rats injected with a colon‐specific carcinogen (AOM) and fed a combination of fermentable fiber (butyrate) plus n‐3 PUFA vs control.

Colonocyte transcriptional profile analysis (RNA‐Seq and ChIP‐Seq) of n‐3 PUFA/butyrate vs control rats at the cancer progression stage, 10 wks post AOM exposure, revealed 26 differentially expressed genes related to the RXR/FXR signaling (IPA pathway analysis p<0.001). Differential H3K9ac occupancy concurrent with the induced pathway genes included hepatic transport proteins (ABCA1 and ABCA2), metabolizing enzymes (CYP2B6, GSTA3), biosynthesis enzymes (CYP7A1), RXR ligand synthesis (ALDH8), and nuclear hormone receptor (FXR) linked to increased metabolism, transport and biosynthesis of lipid, bile acid and xenobiotics. In conclusion, we propose that the chemoprotective effects of n‐3 PUFA/butyrate combination during cancer progression include activated transcription and chromatin acetylation of RXR/FXR function and lipid metabolism associated genes.
Carnitine is a Pivotal Contributor for Butyrate Oxidation in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Han Anna , Donohoe Dallas
Published: June 2021

Butyrate, derived from colonic microbial fermentation of dietary fiber, is the primary energy substrate of the colonocyte. Butyrate also regulates gene expression in the colonocyte via inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs). The main objective of this study was to identify mechanisms that influence butyrate oxidation in cancerous colonocyte (HCT116). We hypothesized that carnitine, which is used to mainly shuttle LCFAs into the mitochondria via CPT1, would be required to achieve full butyrate oxidation in the cancerous colonocyte. The Seahorse XF24 Analyzer was used to measure butyrate oxidation in HCT116 cells with and without carnitine. The oxidation of butyrate in HCT 116 cells incubated with carnitine was significantly higher than those without carnitine (p<0.05). Next, we predicted that if carnitine increased butyrate oxidation, it would lower intracellular butyrate, suppress HDAC inhibition, and diminish butyrate induced histone acetylation. This was indeed the case as the relative H3 acetylation induced by butyrate is significantly decreased in HCT116 cells treated with carnitine (p<0.05).. Furthermore, we found that only butyrate oxidation was shown to be carnitine dependent when compared to other SCFAs (p<0.05). This suggests that carnitine is an important contributor toward butyrate oxidation and butyrate‐induced histone acetylation in colorectal cancer cells.
Bouts of sedentary time and cardiovascular risk factors in children
Authors: Oken Emily , CANTORAL Alejandra , Thompson Jennifer , Baccarelli Andrea , Svensson Katherine , Tellez‐Rojo Marta M , Wright Robert O
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Sedentary behavior is being widely recognized as a factor independently associated with several health outcomes. The aim of the present study was to examine the association between measured sedentary activity and cardiovascular risk factors in children between 4 and 5 years old. Methods: In a subsample of 132 children of the PRGRESS cohort in Mexico City, bouts of sedentary time were measured with an accelerometer for seven days, and the following biomarkers were determined: glucose, triglycerides, total‐cholesterol, HDL‐Cholesterol and LDL‐Cholesterol. Linear regression models were performed to estimate the association between bouts of sedentary time and the anthropometric and biochemical variables. Models were adjusted by sex, age in months, energy intake, BMI Z‐score and moderate physical activity

Results

The mean of sedentary bouts was 7.9 per day (SD +2.45), for each bout of sedentary time blood glucose and LDL‐cholesterol significantly increased (b= 0.90mg/dL, CI: .05, 1.74 and b=3.89mg/dl, CI: 0.67, 7.12 respectively); also as the bouts increased total‐cholesterol and triglycerides increased as well, although these association were not statistically significant (β= 3.23, CI: ‐0.59,7.05 and β=3.26, CI: ‐1.03, 7.55, respectively).

Conclusion

The number of bouts of sedentary time was associated with cardiovascular risk factors independently of moderate physical activity.
A Comparison of Nutrition Knowledge and Behaviors of Low Income Pregnant Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Ellis Megan , O'Brien Kimberly , Cooper Elizabeth , Pressman Eva , Whisner Corrie
Published: June 2021

Low income, pregnant adolescents have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, delivery of low birth weight babies and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) that increases the risk of postpartum overweight and obesity. Dietary intake is a modifiable risk factor that may impact maternal health and fetal outcomes. To evaluate the effectiveness of a social media intervention on improving prenatal health beliefs and diet quality, 24 racially diverse pregnant women (12 teens and 12 adults; 54% Black and 33% White) were recruited. Participants completed pre‐ and post‐intervention nutrition knowledge questionnaires and up to 3 diet recalls across gestation to assess dietary behaviors. Self‐reported pre‐pregnancy BMI was 26.7 ± 5.5 kg/m2 with a median (IQR) GWG of 12.0 (9.9, 16.8) kg over gestation (40.1 ± 1.0 weeks). While 41.7% of the participants were enrolled in WIC, diet quality remained poor with median fat and sugar intakes of 33% and 22% of calories, respectively. Dietary fiber intake did not differ by age group (23.4 ± 14.1 g vs. 18.5 ± 11.9 g) but insoluble fiber intake was significantly greater among pregnant adult women (P < 0.02) compared to adolescents. While most participants were able to identify sugary foods, adolescents had limited knowledge of fiber‐rich foods. Teens consumed greater quantities of sugar‐sweetened beverages and fast food items low in fiber. Overall, the inadequate dietary behaviors observed in this study suggest that future interventions should focus education on specific dietary nutrients such as added sugars and fiber in order to improve the diet quality of high‐risk pregnant populations.
Social Support and Sabotage: The Influence of Relationships on Health Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors in Rural Adults
Authors: Sriram Urshila , Morgan Emily , Graham Meredith , Folta Sara , Nelson Miriam , Paul Lynn , Kenkel Donald , Seguin Rebecca
Published: June 2021

Social environments exert an important influence on nutrition and physical activity behaviors, yet few studies have examined the meaning of social ties in relation to the health of rural communities. This work explored how social relationships influence the adoption and maintenance of health‐related behaviors among midlife and older rural adults. Seventeen focus groups were conducted with 126 sedentary, overweight/obese adults aged 40‐91 years residing in government designated “medically underserved” rural Montana towns (average population <3,000). Groups were stratified by age (40‐64 and 蠅64) and gender. Transcripts were examined thematically according to social facilitators and barriers to healthy eating and physical activity. Results indicated that social ties had both health‐promoting and health‐damaging effects. Support from and accountability to family and friends were common facilitators of behavior change and maintenance. However, expectations to conform to social norms in these isolated communities often hindered healthy eating and physical activity. Participants reported feeling that ingrained ideas of what constituted a meal (e.g. meat and potatoes) and obligations to eat at social gatherings were barriers to adopting/maintaining healthier eating. These findings suggest that interventions targeting adults in rural settings need to consider the impact of social relationships in both supporting and sabotaging health behavior change and maintenance strategies

Funded by NIH/NHLBI, R01 HL120702‐01.
Raising omega‐3 and lowering omega‐6 in military diet recipes: effects on blood fatty acids
Authors: Hibbeln Joseph , Champagne Catherine , Montain Scott , Hawes Michael , Berry Kevin , Marriott Bernadette
Published: June 2021

Elevating dietary intake of omega‐3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 HUFAs) is widely recommended. Increasing tissue n‐3 HUFAs by foods alone, without supplements, is preferred. We compared serum fatty acids after consuming three diets (Control, Medium, High: C,M,H, respectively) with food item or ingredient substitution in standard American military recipes. Experimental diets (M and H) had higher omega‐3 and lower omega‐6 fats. Diets included either a placebo smoothie (C and M) or a 1 gm n‐3 HUFA smoothie (H). Seventy one adults consumed only the prepared diets for 10 weeks. Control homogenized diet was higher in omega‐6 than diets M and H (LA/100gm, Mean±SD) (C: 1.5± 0.33; M:0.54±0.15 H: 0.55± 0.14, p<0.0001). Baseline plasma n‐3 HUFA (ug/ml) did not differ among diet groups, but differed after 5 weeks (C: 58± 30.0; M: 107± 27.0; H: 155± 48.7, p<0.0001) and 10 weeks (C: 62± 22.7; M:108± 38.4; H: 158± 52.6, p<0.0001 ). Omega‐3 and 6 tissue status comparable to Mediterranean diets can be achieved by dietary ingredient substitutions (n‐6 % in HUFA, C=80, M=65, H=55, p<0.0001). Research support:W81XWH‐06—0009 USAMRAA & MOMRP, NIAAA
Consumption of Ahiflower Oil Is Safe and Increases Tissue EPA Levels Compared to Flaxseed Oil – Results of a Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Lefort Natalie , LeBlanc Rémi , Giroux Marie‐Andrée , Surette Marc
Published: June 2021

Ahiflower oil is a dietary oil rich in stearidonic acid (SDA, 18:4 n‐3) extracted from Buglossoides arvensis seeds. We report herein a randomized, double blind, placebo‐controlled Phase I Clinical Trial. This is the first study of this novel dietary oil in humans. Healthy subjects (n=40) supplemented their diets (28 days, 9.8 g/d) with Ahiflower oil (46% α‐linolenic acid (ALA), 20% SDA) or with flaxseed oil (59% ALA). Safety parameters were blood and urine chemistries, blood lipid profiles, hepatic and renal function tests and hematology. No clinically‐significant safety‐related values were measured in either group. Fasting plasma, RBC, polymorphonuclear (PMN) and mononuclear cells (MC) were collected at baseline, 14 and 28 days and fatty acids were measured by gas chromatography. Linear mixed models (repeated measures design) probed for differences in time and time x treatment interaction using gender, age and BMI as covariates. Amongst significant tissue fatty acid changes, EPA (20:5 n‐3) as % of total fatty acids increased from baseline to day 28 in both the Ahiflower (plasma, RBC, PMN and MC, respectively: 0.46 vs 1.34, 0.44 vs 0.74, 0.15 vs 0.24 and 0.20 vs 0.48; all p<0.05) and flaxseed (0.43 vs 0.76, 0.42 vs 0.55, 0.16 vs 0.19, 0.20 vs 0.27; all p<0.05) groups. Notably, EPA accrual in plasma and cells was greater in the Ahiflower group (time x treatment interactions, p<0.05) and the change in plasma EPA at day 28 was 2.5‐times greater in the Ahiflower group. In conclusion, Ahiflower oil is a safe and sustainable seed oil for enrichment of tissues with n‐3 PUFA and is more effective than flaxseed oil. (Funded by: CIHR, Atlantic Innovation Fund, Technology Crops Intl)
An Evaluation of Two Methods to Measure Hemoglobin Concentration among Women with Genetic Hemoglobin Disorders in Cambodia: A Method‐Comparison Study
Authors: Karakochuk Crystal , Janmohamed Amynah , Whitfield Kyly , Barr Susan , Vercauteren Suzanne , Kroeun Hou , Talukder Aminuzzaman , McLean Judy , Green Timothy
Published: June 2021

Genetic hemoglobin (Hb) E variants are common in Cambodia and result in an altered and unstable Hb molecule. There are no known studies on the accuracy of Hb measurement using these methods in individuals with Hb E variants.

Methods

We measured Hb concentration in capillary blood using a hemoglobinometer (HemoCue) and in venous blood using a hematology analyzer (Sysmex XT‐1800i) in 420 Cambodian women (18‐45 y).

Results

Bias and concordance appeared similar between methods among women with no Hb disorders (n=195, bias=2.5, pc=0.68), women with Hb E variants (n=133, bias=2.5, pc=0.78), and women with other Hb variants (n=92, bias=2.7, pc=0.73). The overall bias (difference in Hb means between methods) was 2.6 g/L , resulting in a difference in anemia prevalence of 11.5% (Hemocue 41% vs. Sysmex 29.5%, p <0.001). Based on concordance plots, the HemoCue device appears to underestimate Hb concentrations in capillary blood as compared to Sysmex (venous blood) at lower Hb concentrations, and to overestimate Hb concentrations in capillary blood as compared to Sysmex at higher Hb concentrations.

Conclusions

Bias and concordance were similar among all groups, suggesting the two methods were comparable in measuring Hb among women in all groups. We highlight the bias between the two methods to caution programming staff, researchers, and policy makers in the interpretation of data and the impact that even a small bias can have on anemia prevalence rates.
Macronutrients Differentially Regulate PFKFB3 Expression and Increase Inflammation in Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Botchlett Rachel , Hu Xiang , Qi Ting , Zhao JiaJia , Li Honggui , Wu Chaodong
Published: June 2021

The gene PFKFB3 encodes for inducible 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase, an important regulatory enzyme of glycolysis that is increased in small intestine (SI) in response to high‐fat diet (HFD) feeding. However, it is unclear how macronutrients individually regulate PFKFB3 in small intestinal epithelial cells (IEC), the primary site of nutrient absorption and nutrient host‐cell interactions. Also, how the inflammatory status of IECs changes in response to different macronutrients and altered PFKFB3 is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate nutrient regulation of PFKFB3 and inflammatory cytokines in IECs isolated from SI. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a low‐fat diet (LFD) or HFD for 12 weeks and at harvest the SI was removed and IECs isolated and preserved. Also, CMT93, the mouse intestine‐derived cell line, was used to determine which macronutrients differentially regulate PFKFB3 and inflammatory cytokines. Cells were grown in low glucose (LG) or high glucose (HG) medium and treated with bovine serum albumin (BSA; control) or palmitate for 4 or 24 hrs. Analyses of primary IECs showed decreased PFKFB3 and increased inflammatory cytokines in HFD‐ vs LFD‐fed animals. In addition, both PFKFB3 and inflammatory cytokines were increased in cells grown in HG+BSA for 24 hours, as compared to LG+BSA. Interestingly, PFKFB3 was decreased and inflammatory cytokines increased in response to 24 hours of palmitate, regardless of glucose concentration. These findings indicate that PFKFB3 and the inflammatory response in IECs seem to be differentially regulated by carbohydrates and fatty acids. Specifically, saturated fatty acids reduce PFKFB3 amount and contribute to intestinal inflammation. This study was funded by NIH.
Inflammation Attenuates Adaptive Thermogenesis via Autophagy and ER Stress‐Associated Mechanism
Authors: Okla Meshail , Wang Wei , Kang Inhae , Chung Soonkyu
Published: June 2021

Adaptive thermogenesis and browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) is the cellular process to generate heat in response to environmental stimuli including cold temperature. Decrease of adaptive thermogenesis is a contributing factor to exacerbate obesity. The aim of this study is to determine the molecular mechanisms by which obesity compromises adaptive thermogenesis. We hypothesized that a low‐grade chronic inflammation in obesity inhibits WAT browning. C57BL/6 mice were exposed to cold temperature for 2 weeks with injection of either saline or low‐dose LPS to mimic chronic low‐level inflammation. LPS injection significantly decreased thermogenesis than saline as evidenced by lower core body temperature and reduced heat release captured in thermal imaging. LPS‐mediated inflammation markedly decreased WAT browning in subcutaneous fat by dampening down UCP1 and PGC1a expressions, mitochondria‐specific protein levels, and mitochondrial DNA contents suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction. LPS‐mediated inflammation was also associated with an elevated levels of ER stress markers (GRP78, p‐eIF2a, and CHOP) as well as concurrent autophagic activation (increase in beclin‐1, Atg5/Atg12, LC3II). Taken together, our data suggest an existence of novel signaling axis linking adipose inflammation, ER stress, and autophagic activation, which may be responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction and compromised adaptive thermogenesis in obesity.
The presence of colon polyps is associated with specific plasma oxylipids in obese men
Authors: Pickens Austin , Sordillo Lorraine , Comstock Sarah , Fenton Jenifer
Published: June 2021

Oxylipid, oxygenated fatty acid (FA), changes are associated with increased inflammation, inflammation‐induced colon carcinomas, and colon tumor survival. Therefore, oxylipid changes may be indicative of colon polyp presence. The objective of this study was to identify associations between non‐esterified plasma oxylipids and colon polyp presence in obese men. Plasma from obese men (48‐65 years) was pooled into either: obese (median BMI: 34) with colon polyps or obese (median BMI: 31) without colon polyps. Plasma non‐esterified oxylipids were analyzed using solid phase extraction and quantified using a targeted HPLC tandem mass spectrometric analysis. The presence of colon polyps was associated with increased omega‐6 soluble epoxide hydroxylase (SEH) end products 9,10‐ and 12,13‐Dihydroxy octadecaenote, 1.42 and 1.17 fold respectively, and increased omega‐3 SEH end products 14,15‐ and 17,18‐Dihydroxy eicosatetraenoate, 2.24 and 1.84 fold respectively. SEH end products were negatively correlated with their respective omega‐6 and omega‐3 epoxides in individuals with colon polyps. Potent omega‐6 derived anti‐inflammatory oxylipids such as lipoxinA4, as well as 9‐ and 13‐hydroxy octadecaenoate, were 0.75, 0.66, and 0.64 respectively, times lower in plasma of men with colon polyps. Elevated expression of SEH enzyme activity has been described in inflammation‐induced colon cancer. In our population, elevated plasma SEH end products, and decreases in plasma epoxides, are likely reflective of altered colon polyp biology. Future studies should examine plasma SEH end products and colon polyps in larger populations. Research Support: NIH R03CA142000 and MSU CTSI
Early Life Lung Antioxidant Levels and Response to Ozone: Influence of Sex and Maturation in Wistar Rats
Authors: Dye Jan , Gibbs‐Flournoy Eugene , Richards Judy , Hines Erin , Kraft Katherine , Norwood Joel , Hatch Gary
Published: June 2021

Epidemiologic studies of air pollution effects on respiratory health report significant modification by sex. Studies of children suggest stronger effects among boys in early life and girls in later childhood. In adults, particularly the elderly, studies report stronger effects among women. Differential inflammatory or antioxidant responses are purported. Herein we examined sex or maturation influences in prepubertal Wistar rats [a strain prone to ozone (O3)‐induced lung injury/inflammation] on (A) lung antioxidant and related enzyme levels and (B) antioxidant response to O3. Female (F) and male (M) 14, 21, and 28 d (pre‐, at, post‐weaning) pups were exposed to air, 0.5 or 1 ppm O3 x 2h. In air controls, no sex‐based differences in lung antioxidant levels were observed. From 14‐28 d, weight increased (F: 1.7‐2.7‐fold; M: 1.7‐3.1‐fold); with M>F at 28 d. Likewise, lung uric acid increased (1.1‐1.2‐fold), as did ascorbic acid (1.4‐2.7‐fold), glutathione (GSH) peroxidase (1.0‐3.5‐fold), GSH transferase (1.0‐2.9‐fold), GSH reductase (1.2‐4.2‐fold), and G‐6‐PDH (10‐fold) (per gwet wt). Conversely, SOD declined 30‐42%. Lung GSH was relatively stable. At 0h, 1 ppm O3‐exposed F 14 d pups had decreased GSH and related enzyme activity. At 21 d, exposure was without effect on GSH; and males showed O3‐induced increases in uric acid. At 28 d, no antioxidant changes were apparent. Together, data suggest health risk due to early life pollutant exposure is greatest in very immature females. With maturity, especially post‐weaning, rat lung antioxidant reserve increases, thus reducing susceptibility to pollutant‐induced oxidative stress. (Abstract does not reflect USEPA policy)
Cell‐specific Wnts Regulate Liver Zonation And Regeneration After Partial Hepatectomy
Authors: Preziosi Morgan , Yang Jing , Okabe Hirohisa , Diegel Cassandra , Williams Bart , Monga Satdarshan
Published: June 2021

Our lab has previously shown that β‐catenin regulates liver zonation basally, and regeneration in a partial hepatectomy (Phx) model, under the control of Wnt and the canonical signaling pathway. Using cell‐specific Wntless (Wls) knockout mouse models, we determined epithelial cells are not the source of these Wnts. However, macrophage‐specific Wls knockouts demonstrated normal zonation but delayed regeneration, suggesting they are a contributing source of Wnts. We sought to further identify the source and identity of Wnts using stellate cell‐specific and endothelial cell‐specific Wls knockout models (HSC‐KO and EC‐KO, respectively). The HSC‐KO showed no deficit in regeneration or zonation, suggesting HSC are not the source of these Wnts. Interestingly, EC‐KO showed decreased zonation markers GS and Cyp2e1 at baseline, suggesting a contribution to zonation. Notably, macrophages and EC demonstrate high levels of Wnt2 and 9b at baseline, which significantly increase after Phx. Immunohistochemistry reveals Wnt2 and Wnt9b to be pericentrally localized to hepatocytes and EC, and diffuse throughout the liver one‐to‐three hour after Phx. Taken together, these results suggest that EC secretion of Wnt2 and Wnt9b is required for zonation and regeneration after Phx.
Development of a highly sensitive mouse monoclonal antibody for screening ALK‐rearrangements in lung cancers
Authors: Shen Yi , Jin Mulan , Wu Yipan , Zhang Yungang , Yuan Kehu , Chu Boyang , Qi Lili , Liu Huibo , Wang Chenlin , Wang Guangli , Shu Youmin , McDowell Julie , Wei Haitao , Chen Caiwei , Ma Donghui , He Weiwu , Chen Jian
Published: June 2021

The anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements, mostly EML4‐ALK fusion, occur in 3‐7% of lung cancer patients and define a patient population that could respond to receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor Crizotinib and Ceritinib. Currently, ALK testing is mostly conducted by either fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods, either of which has its own limitations. The detection of the ALK protein in lung cancer patient tissues by IHC was found to be difficult mostly due to the low abundance of its fusion product. To overcome this limitation, we have developed an ALK mouse monoclonal antibody (clone 1A4) that is more sensitive than a current rabbit ALK antibody D5F3. Our initial analyses revealed that 1A4 can correctly identify all 5 EML4‐ALK positive samples that were previously confirmed by QPCR tests, while did not yield significant background on all 30 EML4‐ALK negative lung cancer samples. By using a different IHC detection system, we further tested 1A4 on 17 ALK‐positive and 10 ALK‐negative lung cancer biopsy specimens that have been validated by either FISH or PCR from another hospital. The IHC result of the antibody 100% agreed with the previous molecular diagnosis. The high concordance of the IHC results by the novel ALK antibody with other DNA/RNA based detection methods suggested that 1A4 could be used routinely for screening ALK‐rearrangement genetic events among patients.

This research is partly supported by Chinese 863 research grant number 2014AA020909.
Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: Can Mesothelin Expression Help us to Classify them Better?
Authors: Avadhani Vaidehi , Ahrens Dagny , Kapur Varun , Brower Steven , Wayne Michael , Ghali Violette , Levi Gabriel
Published: June 2021

Mesothelin is a cell surface protein and a differentiation antigen of mesothelial cells. Rcently, Mesothelin expression has been reported in mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas. The aim of this study is to study the expression of Mesothelin in Intraductal pancreatic mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and to see if this can be used to identify lesions with increasing dysplasia

A retrospective search of our Surgical database from 2008‐2014 was done. 30 cases of mucinous cystic lesions of the pancreas were identified. Clinical data including the age, size of lesion, main or branch duct involvement and pathological features including size of lesion, presence of adenocarcinoma, histopathology of the lesion were collected. All the cases were reviewed to select a representative section with the worst lesion on histopathology. The block was recut to obtain 2 unstained slides per block. One was stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and the other was stained for Mesothelin (Leica RTU Clone5B2). Mesothelin staining pattern was evaluated as shown:

Mesothelin stain

Pattern
Cytoplasmic
Luminal/Apical

Intensity
Weak, Intermediate, Strong
Weak, Intermediate, Strong

73% of the mucinous cystic lesions were IPMN, with 21 female patients and 9 male patients. The mean size of the lesion was 3.1 cm.

A. Histopathology
Number
Mesothelin positive
Apical stain positive

1. IPMN
16
13
4

2. IPMN with high grade dysplasia
3
3
3

3. IPMN with adenocarcinoma
3
2
2

4. Mucinous cystadenoma
2
1
0

5. Mucinous cystic neoplasm
6
1
0

B. Relation to duct

1. Main duct
8
7
6

2. Branch duct
8
6
2

3. Mixed
3
2
0

4. Not reported
3
2
1

Mesothelin shows strong luminal expression in IPMN associated with high grade dysplasia and adenocarcinoma. It can possibly be used to identify lesions which might recur or as a marker of poor prognosis, hence helpful in stratifying patients who need close follow up. It shows cytoplasmic granular positivity in neoplastic epithelium and is negative in benign pancreatic and duodenal epithelium, which may help in identifying lesional tissue. This feature may also be useful in stratifying FNA specimen which usually have scant cells. Long‐term follow up studies can be helpful to study association with recurrence and prognosis, and identify cases which require close follow‐up.