bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Insights into a Novel Esterase EstDL136
Authors: Kim Sanghoon , Rhee Sangkee
Published: June 2021

Chloramphenicol (Cm) and florfenicol (Ff) are broad‐spectrum antibiotics that inhibit protein synthesis. Therefore, both antibiotics are a bacteriostat but differ in their chemical structure in that a fluoro group is attached to C3 of Ff. Specifically, both antibiotics prevent a formation of the peptide bond by irreversibly binding to a receptor site on the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome. It is well established that chloramphenicol acetyltransferase inactivates Cm by first recognizing the hydroxyl group of C3 in Cm and then specifically acetylating the hydroxyl group. Due to this specificity, Ff cannot serve as a substrate of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase. Interestingly, EstDL136, which was recently characterized by metagenome screening, inactivates both antibiotics possibly by hydrolysis of those antibiotics, suggesting that EstDL136 could be a novel enzyme in inactivating both Cm and Ff. Sequence analysis of EstDL136 indicates that its sequence is highly similar to those of microbial hormone senstive lipase. Consistent with this comparison, EstDL136 contains Ser156 in the GxSxG motif and Asp252 and His282, the catalytic triad conserved in the family of microbial hormone senstive lipase. In order to understand this novel enzymatic feature, we are carrying out X‐ray crystallographic analysis of EstDL136. Our studies will provide new structural insights into antibiotics hydrolysis. This work was supported by a grant from the Next‐Generation BioGreen 21 Program (Plant Molecular Breeding Center) by Rural Development Administration of Republic of Korea.
Lethal Arg9Cys phospholamban mutation increases the mitochondrial fission protein (Drp‐1) activity
Authors: Yokoe Shunichi , Zvaritch Elena , Sizova Olga , Miyake Tetsuaki , Teng Allen , Gramolini Anthony , MacLennan David , Asahi Michio
Published: June 2021

An Arg9 to Cys point mutation in phospholamban (PLN) is the leading cause of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in both humans and in transgenic mice (TgPLNR9C mice). An earlier proteomics analysis of these mice showed that many proteins classified under the Gene Ontology (GO) term functional categories of ‘reduced mitochondrial function' and 'disruption of energy production' were significantly reduced. Here, we show that COX activity measured in mitochondria isolated from ventricles of these mice was significantly reduced compared to wild type. At the same time, electron microscopy showed extensive mitochondrial damage. Since PLN is a regulator of the sarco/endo plasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA2a), we examined the translocation of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) to speculate Ca2+ store in SR. STIM1 formed punctae in R9C cells, indicating a reduction in the size of the Ca2+ store. This change in the Ca2+ store was associated with ER stress and changes in the phosphorylation status of several proteins; in particular, phosphorylation of the mitochondrial fission protein 1 (Drp1) was decreased. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence in whole cells showed enhanced dephosphorylation of Drp1, increased cytochrome c release and enhanced cleavage of caspase‐3, associated with mitochondrial damage in 8‐week old TgPLNR9C mouse hearts. We propose that the dephosphorylation and activation of Drp1, leading to enhanced mitochondrial fission, may play an early role in the progression to DCM, triggered by Ca2+ dysregulation in TgPLNR9C mice.
Notch and Hypoxia Inducible Factor Cooperate in the Generation of Hemangioblast and in Sprouting Angiogenesis
Authors: Calderon Alexander , Ramírez‐Bergeron Diana
Published: June 2021

Adaptive responses to low Oxygen tension (hypoxia) are integral to embryogenesis, tumorigenesis, and tissue ischaemia, and during embryonic development, promoting the development of the cardiovascular system. Hypoxic responses mediated by Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF) as well as Notch signals mediated by the ligand Delta‐4 (Dll‐4) stimulate the generation of cardiovascular progenitor cells, hemangioblasts, and their subsequent differentiation into haematopoietic and endothelial cells (ECs). In addition to Notch's involvement in cell‐cell signaling, cell‐fate determination, and binary cell fate decision, it promotes sprouting angiogenesis. Because of the known physical interaction between cleaved‐Notch (NICD) and the HIFα subunit, we propose that noncanonical biochemical crosstalk between these two pathways are critical during these vascular events. We utilize a differentiation system with mouse Embryonic Stem Cells (mESC) to analyze the cooperation of Notch and HIF during the early emergence of hemangioblasts. We also manipulate the activity of HIF and Notch to dissect the effects of hypoxia on Notch‐dependent sprouting of ECs. To do this we utilize genetic (DNMM) and biochemical (γ‐secretase inhibitor, and hypoxia) approaches to ascertain the biological responses of our systems. Our data thus far shows differential transcriptional regulation of Notch downstream targets, specifically down regulation of Hrt‐1 and Hrt‐2, up regulation of Notch ligands Jag‐1 and Dll‐4 and down regulation of Vegf. There are also differences in sprouting assays concerning the number of sprouts and length of sprouts under various biochemical conditions.
Role of calcium in regulating the production of urine by the Malpighian tubules of Rhodnius prolixus.
Authors: Hassan Noman , Gioino Paula , Katselis George , Ianowski Juan
Published: June 2021

Background

R. prolixus Malpighian tubules require very efficient transport machinery and regulatory mechanisms to prevent catastrophic imbalances in intracellular ion composition. Recently, we have demonstrated that tubules stimulated with the diuretic hormone serotonin (5HT) trigger intracellular calcium (Ca2+) waves that play a pivotal role in the regulation of ion transport.

Questions:

What is the intracellular second messenger pathway triggered by 5HT? What is coded in the intracellular Ca2+ waves?

Methods

Mass spectrometry (MS) techniques were employed to analyze the changes in intracellular proteome between non‐stimulated (control) and 5HT‐stimulated tubules. The effect of individual protein changes on the regulation in M. tubules was studied using pharmcology. Intracellular Ca2+ imaging was used to study the effect of altering the ion transport properties of the tubule on 5HT‐stimulated Ca2+ waves.

Results

5HT‐stimulated intracellular Ca2+ signaling are blocked by treatment with PLC and IP3 receptor inhibitors. Ca2+ waves are modulated by blockers of ion transporters (bumetanide). MS analysis showed differences between control and 5HT‐stimulated groups. We detected kinases WNK and OSR1 that have been shown to regulate ion transport in vertebrate system. This is the first time that these kinases are reported in R. Prolixus.

Conclusion

Intracellular Ca2+ is triggered by PLC and IP3 and modulated by ion and fluid flux. We propose that the amplitude modulation of the Ca2+ signal may be important in coding for the ion transport state of the cells. The global proteomics analysis indicates that WNK and OSR1 may be involved in the regulation of 5HT‐stimulated fluid secretion.
Activation of Caspase‐Dependent Apoptosis by Intracellular Delivery of Cytochrome c‐based Nanoparticles
Authors: Gonzalez‐Robles Tania , Morales‐Cruz Moraima , Figueroa Cindy , Griebenow Kai
Published: June 2021

Cytochrome c (Cyt c) is an essential mediator of apoptosis when it is released from the mitochondria to the cytoplasm. In this work we designed a novel nano‐sized smart Cyt c drug delivery system to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Cyt c was precipitated with a solvent‐displacement method to obtain protein nanoparticles. The surface of Cyt c nanoparticles was decorated with poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid‐SH via the linker succinimidyl 3‐(2‐pyridyldithio) propionate to prevent premature dissolution during delivery. A cell‐free caspase‐3 assay revealed more than 80% of relative caspase activation by Cyt c after nanoprecipitation and polymer modification when compared to native Cyt c. Incubation of HeLa cells with the Cyt c based‐nanoparticles showed significant reduction in cell viability after 6 hours while native Cyt c showed none. Confocal microscopy confirmed the induction of apoptosis in HeLa cells when they were stained with 4,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole and propidium iodide after incubation with the Cyt c‐based nanoparticles. Our results demonstrate that the coating with a hydrophobic polymer stabilizes Cyt c nanoparticles allowing for their delivery to the cytoplasm of target cells. After smart release of Cyt c into the cytoplasm, it induced programmed cell death.
A Quantum Mechanical Study of Tautomeric Triggers of Bergman Cyclization
Authors: Jaini Arjun , Parish Carol
Published: June 2021

Enediynes have the potential to be effective anti‐cancer pro‐drugs. Enediynes cyclize via the well‐studied endothermic Bergman Cyclization Reaction in order to form para‐benzyne. Para‐benzyne is a diradical that destroys cancerous cells by extracting hydrogen atoms from tumor cell DNA. Although this reaction can be initiated with light or heat, an efficient way to trigger Bergman Cyclization specifically in the presence of a cancerous cell has yet to be found. Keto‐enol tautomerization was studied as a possible trigger for Bergman Cyclization. The activation barriers and reaction energies of Bergman Cyclization of various tautomeric structures were calculated and compared using density functional theory with a 6‐31G** basis set and a UB3LYP functional. The data displayed several key relationships between tautomerism, structure, and the energetics of the Bergman Cyclization Reaction. Overall, the results of this experiment highlight the potential for using tautomers to trigger Bergman Cyclization.
New α‐(N)‐Heterocyclic Thiosemicarbazones Compounds Including The Cu2+ And Pd2+ Complexes: Applications Towards Potential Anti‐Cancer Agents
Authors: Scott Rebekah , McGill Bradley , Carroll William , Lisic Edward
Published: June 2021

Our research team has synthesized new compounds involving the reaction of α‐(N)‐heterocyclic substrates, including methyl‐imidazole‐2‐carboxaldehyde, with several commercially available thiosemicarbazides (TSC's) to form many new α‐(N)‐heterocyclic thiosemicarbazone compounds, which act as tridentate monoanionic ligands with Cu2+ and Pd2+. These ligands were synthesized in the lab, recrystallized, and analyzed via ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy using ¹H detected ¹³C and 15N Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence (HSQC) and Heteronuclear Multiple‐Bond Correlation (HMBC) experiments. The NMR spectra show evidence for the proposed structures for the ligands. We have performed anti‐proliferative MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) studies using seven different microbes with the ligands and the metal complexes in order to determine the anti‐microbial properties of each TSC compound synthesized, and have found that the Cu and Pd metal complexes of these ligands have significant anti‐proliferative activities. We relate these anti‐microbial properties to activity against Topoisomerase IIa.
Identification of novel chemotherapies targeting mitochondrial‐cell communication.
Authors: Paudel Iru , Giulianotti Marc , Welmaker Gregory , Chambers Jeremy
Published: June 2021

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. OC mortality is associated with a high rate of recurrence (~80%). Recurrent OC is typified by treatment resistant cells; thus, conventional therapies are often ineffective. Therefore, it is imperative to find novel drugs to eliminate recurrent OC cells. We propose that targeting mitochondrial‐cell communication in recurrent OC will increase chemotherapeutic efficacy. Preliminary data demonstrate that increasing the concentration of the mitochondrial scaffold protein Sab sensitizes OC cells to paclitaxel by inducing apoptotic priming. These studies suggest that increasing Sab levels in OC will induce a pre‐apoptotic state and sensitize the tumor cells to conventional therapies, thus rendering resistant OC cells sensitive. We developed a high throughput assay to screen a scaffold ranking and positional scanning library in order to identify novel chemicals that increase Sab expression in SK‐OV‐3 cells. An In‐Cell Western (ICW) assay was used to detect Sab levels, and this assay was optimized for screening (z‐score of 0.81). The Sab ICW was co‐stained with the TO‐PRO‐3 DNA stain for normalization and to assess viability. We screened 50 scaffolds in SK‐OV‐3 cells. Scaffolds selected for further evaluation increased Sab expression greater than 30% and demonstrated minimal toxicity. Using this method we identified six candidate scaffolds. Of these, N‐Methyl‐1,4,5‐tri‐substituted‐2,3‐diketopiperazines were considered to be the best candidates. We predict that this approach will identify novel chemotherapeutic drugs that will improve OC treatment and mortality.
Milk Composition Produced from Malawi Zebu‐Friesian Crosses and Susceptibility to Environmental Stress
Authors: Allen Jonathan , Neba Sopani
Published: June 2021

Milk intake in developing countries like Malawi is low, contributing to intake of calcium below recommendations; increasing milk availability from local sources could significantly improve nutrient intake in this population. Government programs promote the use of Friesian cows and cross breeding of traditional Malawi zebu and Friesians to improve the performance of zebu cows and increase milk production.

The objective of this study was to compare the milk composition and heat stress response among Malawi zebu (Z), Friesian (F), and cross‐bred (C) cows in Malawi as a component of the effort to increase dairy product intake and economic return to small‐holder dairy farmers. We hypothesized that the crossbred cows would have a heat shock protein (HSP) response similar to zebu that could affect fitness, milk yield, or milk composition in hot environments.

Blood and milk samples were collected from randomly selected groups of approximately 20 each F, C and Z lactating cows. HSP‐70 was measured by ELISA. Milk Na and K were measured by ion‐selective electrodes. Lactose, protein and fat were measured chemically.

HSP70 concentration in blood, and milk [Na], and [fat] did not differ significantly between breeds although mean HSP 70 was highest in F and lowest in Z. Milk [K] was 1.17±0.08, 1.32±0.06, and 1.42±0.05 g/L in Z, C and F, respectively (P<.02). Milk [lactose] was 4.59±0.03, 4.43±0.01 and 4.16±0.02 g/dL in Z, C, and F (P<.001). Milk [protein] was 3.03±0.018, 2.90±0.004, and 2.75±0.009 g/dL in Z, C and F (P<.001).

The trends in milk composition are consistent with lower producing animals having higher lactose and protein concentrations. Efforts to increase milk production in tropical regions may have impacts on milk composition and heat tolerance.
Ethnobotanical Cultural Values and Uses of Nutritional and Medicinal Plants in Rural Panama
Authors: Bermudez Isaias , van der Have Thomas , Bermudez Odilia , dePerez Juana
Published: June 2021

Objective

To identify nutritional and medicinal plants commonly used and with high cultural values among residents of the community of El Cacao, Capira, Panama.

Methods

A community mapping and interviews were conducted in 90 households (90%) in the mentioned community to elicit the knowledge, uses and attributed cultural values assigned to nutritional and medicinal plants. For the interpretation of results, we applied the TRAMIL indicator for prevalence of uses and the Index for Cultural Value (ICV).

Results

The people of El Cacao possessed knowledge of 110 medicinal plants that were documented by their botanical origins. The most commonly used plant parts were the whole plant, leaves, flowers, fruits and rhizomes. All households cultivated several of the identified plants in their home gardens. The plants with the highest TRAMIL indices were peppermint, lemon balm, aloe vera, sage and “mastranto” with 60%, 58%, 56%, 52% and 46%, respectively. Those same plants listed above also received the highest ICVs. They were used for their healing attributes, including for colds, fever, spasm, rheumatism,diabetes, obesity, skin problems and various pain types. Most of those plants (e.g. peppermint, lemon balm and sage) were also used as meal condiments for the local families.

Conclusions

This study documented the ethnobotanical knowledge and cultural values given to traditional plants in the studied community, revealing that even that Panama is a country in the midst of its nutritional transition, rural communities still retain a wealth of local knowledge and cultural value attributed to nutritional and medicinal plants.
Understanding Differing Household Consumption of Native and Traditional Crops in Cochabamba, Bolivia
Authors: Keleman Alder , Humphries Debbie , Cadima F. Ximena , Abasto Susan
Published: June 2021

Background

Bolivia exhibits the highest rates of child malnutrition in South America, despite being the center of diversity of many highly‐nutritious native and traditional crops (NTCs). This research explored household consumption processes Cochabamba Department, to understand how NTCs contribute to household food security and nutrition.

Methods

Five communities were purposively selected to represent four ecotypes (puna, sub‐puna, sub‐tropical, and urban/valles). Three focus‐group discussions were carried out in three communities, and two in the others. Participation targeted female household heads, and utilized participatory methods such as group drawing and mapping of NTC harvesting, processing and preparation.

Results

In all five communities, participants identified the post‐planting season (Nov‐Dec) as the period of highest food insecurity, while NTCs were most available during the harvest and post‐harvest period (Mar‐Jul). Many NTCs require labor‐intensive preparation processes, and depend on the availability of other resources, including abundant water and cooking fuel. Some NTCs have important commercial value, and present challenges in post‐harvest storage, increasing incentives for market sale. The differing in‐ and out‐migration profiles of individuals and communities also influence their knowledge of and propensity to use NTCs in each place.

Conclusions

Household NTC consumption is linked to resource availability, post‐harvest storage capacity, market value, and the life histories of food preparers.
Associations between Linear Growth and Language Development in Ghana, Malawi, and Burkina Faso
Authors: Prado E , Abbeddou S , Adu‐Afarwuah S , Arimond M , Ashorn P , Ashorn U , Brown K , Hess S , Lartey A , Maleta K , Ocansey E , Ouedraogo JB , Phuka J , Somé J , Vosti S , Yakes Jimenez E , Dewey K
Published: June 2021

Stunted growth and brain development are linked, though the strength of the association varies between contexts and few studies have examined moderating factors.

Our objectives were 1) to examine the strength of the association between linear growth and language development in the iLiNS Project in Ghana (n=909), Burkina Faso (n=1116), and two cohorts in Malawi (n=1124 and 569) and 2) to examine the relative strength of the association during different periods of development. Participants were randomized to receive various formulations of lipid‐based nutrient supplements (LNS) during pregnancy and infancy or infancy alone, or to control groups. We examined the association between 18‐mo language scores and a) 18‐mo length‐for‐age z‐score (LAZ), b) LAZ at age 6 or 9 mo and c) the change in LAZ between infancy (6 or 9 mo) and 18 mo.

The coefficients for the associations of language with concurrent LAZ were significant and similar across cohorts (B=0.10‐0.21), and the coefficients were similar for the periods before and after 6 or 9 mo (B=0.09‐0.30), except when maternal LNS was provided. Maternal LNS eliminated the association between language and 6‐mo LAZ (B=0.00‐0.03), but the association with change in LAZ from 6‐18 mo remained significant whether or not infant LNS was provided (B=0.09‐0.30).

Linear growth faltering both before and after 6‐9 mo is linked with poorer language development, but the link for the early interval is attenuated by maternal LNS.

Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Surviving the Sexodus Project: How STEM Women Approach Career Challenges
Authors: Brinkworth Jessica , Shanahan Marie‐Claire
Published: June 2021

That many women leave science somewhere between undergraduate studies and senior scientist positions has been well noted. Honest discussion of the challenges women face within and outside the STEM pipeline is required to highlight the reasons women advance to senior STEM positions in lower numbers than men. Importantly, such discussion offers a unique opportunity for women who have “been there” to share how they have coped with career obstacles and aid others facing the similar problems. The “Surviving the Sexodus” project began as a discussion between long‐time friends of how they walked the paths of two very different scientific careers. It resulted in an overwhelming response from other women scientists willing to share their stories to support, mentor and encourage others. In this talk we will examine the patterns and themes that have emerged from these stories. Why do women want to share their stories in this way and what do they feel it can offer to colleagues and students? Which survival strategies emerge at different career stages and which cross disciplines to be widely valuable for women? We will address these trends and how they fit with the larger culture of support for women in science and share insights both from our own stories and those that have been told to us.
Perinatal Choline Supplementation Reduces Amyloidosis and Increases Cholinergic Marker Expression in the Hippocampus of the APPswePS1dE9 Alzheimer's Disease Model Mice
Authors: Mellott Tiffany , Huleatt Olivia , Shade Bethany , Pender Sarah , Liu Yi Bessie , Blusztajn Jan
Published: June 2021

Prevention of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major goal of biomedical sciences. In previous studies we showed that high intake of the essential nutrient, choline, during gestation prevented age‐related memory decline in a rat model. In this study we investigated the effects of a similar treatment on AD‐related phenotypes in a mouse model of AD. We crossed wild type female mice with hemizygous APPswe.PS1dE9 (APP.PS1) AD model male mice and maintained the pregnant and lactating dams on a control AIN76A diet containing 8 mmol/kg of choline or a choline supplemented (36 mmol/kg) diet. After weaning all offspring consumed the control diet. As compared to APP.PS1 mice reared on the control diet, the hippocampus of the perinatally choline supplemented APP.PS1 mice exhibited: 1) reduced levels of solubilized amyloid Aβ40 and Aβ42 peptides; 2) reduced number and total area of amyloid plaques; 3) preserved levels of choline acetyltransferase protein and 4) absence of astrogliosis. The data suggest that dietary supplementation of choline during fetal development and early postnatal life may constitute a preventive strategy for AD.

Supported by BUADC pilot grant and NIRG‐10‐17273 from the Alzheimer's Association to TJM
Predicting iron‐dependent changes in energy expenditure from changes in EEG power as a function of cognitive workload
Authors: Tate L , Wenger M , Murray‐Kolb L , Haas J
Published: June 2021

Variations in iron status have been shown to affect cognitive performance as well as brain dynamics. Given that one of the potential effects of ID is a reduction in the amount of energy that can be expended in cortical function, there is a need for a method of estimating brain energy use during cognitive work. The present effort was asked whether measures on EEG can be used as indirect estimates of brain energy expenditure (EE). A total of 20 iron‐deficient women and 17 age‐, education‐ and activity‐level‐matched controls provided blood samples for measures of iron status and performed a visual Sternberg task with a concurrent mental math task. The Sternberg task was designed as a cognitive analog to tests of physical work (e.g., treadmill tests), with the critical manipulation being increases in the difficulty of the task. While performing the visual Sternberg task, participants' brain and metabolic states were measured using eletroencephelography (EEG) and measures of heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumed (VO2), with VO2 used to estimate total EE. Increases in workload produced significant significant increases in reaction time (RT), VO2, EE, and normalized γ‐band power in the EEG data. In addition, significant positive correlations were observed between VO2 and both body iron (BdFe) and Hb. Critically, EE at each level of workload was significantly predicted by γ‐band power. Taken together, these results suggest that variations in iron status can limit the amount of cortical work, and that measures on the EEG data can be used as an indirect estimate of the energy expended.
High Maternal Choline Consumption During Pregnancy and Nursing Alleviates Deficits in Social Interaction and Improves Anxiety‐like Behaviors in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf /J Mouse Model of Autism
Authors: Langley Erika , Krykbaeva Marina , Blusztajn Jan , Mellott Tiffany
Published: June 2021

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with multiple genetic and environmental risk factors. Choline is an essential nutrient for brain development and high choline intake during prenatal and/or early postnatal periods is neuroprotective. We examined the effects of perinatal choline supplementation on anxiety, social and repetitive behaviors in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse model of autism. The BTBR or the control C57BL/6J (B6) females were fed a control or high‐choline diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. After weaning to a control diet, juvenile and adult offspring were evaluated using open field (OF), elevated plus maze (EPM), marble burying, and three‐chamber social interaction tests. As expected, control‐diet BTBR mice had higher OF locomotor activity, impaired social preference, and increased marble burying compared to control‐diet B6 mice. Choline supplementation decreased digging behavior and elevated the percentage of entries and time spent in open arms in the EPM by BTBR mice without effects on locomotion. Choline supplementation remarkably improved impairments in social interaction in BTBR mice at both ages and had no effect in B6 mice. We note that the behavioral‐phenotype‐related genetic quantitative trait loci in BTBR mice contain genes associated with the biochemistry of choline: Chrna3, Chrna5, Chrnb4, Pcyt1b, Chpt1, Pld1, Ppap2c, Mthfd1, Mthfs, Slc19a1, Dnmt3l, Mecp2. In conclusion, high choline intake during early development can prevent or reduce deficits in social behavior and anxiety in an autistic mouse model, revealing a strategy for the treatment/prevention of autism spectrum disorders.
Gut Hormone Levels in Preterm Infants as Predictors of Feeding Intolerance
Authors: Hart K , Kim L , Zaman M , Grimont C , D'Onofrio D , Freedman S , Martin C
Published: June 2021

Background

Feeding intolerance (FI), defined as delayed advancement to full enteral feedings, in the preterm infant leads to growth failure and may play a role in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis, the leading gastrointestinal cause of death in the NICU.

Methods: Serum gut hormone (GH) levels in 64 preterm infants born at < 30 weeks gestational age (GA) were measured on day of birth and at postnatal day 7 (Millipore, USA). Univariate linear regression was performed between GH levels and GA and between GH levels and days to full feedings.

Results: Mean GA was 28.1 ± 1.3 wks and birthweight 1038.6 ± 276.6 gms. Leptin and gastrointestinal inhibitory peptide (GIP) on the day of birth (p=.04; p=.006) and leptin and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) at day 7 (p=.004; p=.01) were positively correlated with GA. Higher PP levels on the day of birth (p=.02) were correlated with FI while lower levels of GIP, polypeptide YY (PYY) and glucagon‐like peptide 2 (GLP‐2) at day 7 (p=.001; p=.0001; p=.03) were associated with FI independent of GA.

Conclusions

While some gut hormones are markers of gestational maturity, others are independent of GA and thus are potential biomarkers in predicting FI in preterm infants. In the latter, lower levels of GIP, PYY, and GLP‐2 at day 7 may predict impaired neuroendocrine responses and lack of intestinal growth in infants who are at risk of FI. Future multivariate analyses will adjust for the influence of nutritional parameters on GH levels.

This study is supported by the AOA Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, Abbott Nutritionals and Alcresta.
Mixed Methods Assessment of Health Tracking Use by Diverse, Urban Youth
Authors: Schaefer Sara , Carter Ching Cynthia
Published: June 2021

Health tracking technologies are changing the way people engage with health and lifestyle management. Healthy behaviors acquired early in life are most effective for disease prevention, but feasibility of health tracking among youth is unclear. This study explored how urban youth engage with health tracking to identify effective avenues for using health tracking in health education in under resourced communities that stand to benefit the most. Diverse youth (n=33, age 12.6 y) in an after school program in urban Sacramento were asked to use a Fitbit™ physical activity monitor that displays users' actualized data (ie, step count, calorie burn) and wirelessly syncs to an online profile to log data over time. Log data were used to quantitatively assess objective device engagement. Engagement (calculated as % time the device was actually used) was ~30% over 4 months. When research or technical support weren't available, engagement dropped even more. Researchers conducted focus groups to assess student reported experiences, behavior change, motivators and barriers with the device. While students weren't as engaged with online tracking, they reported using the immediate data from the display (ie, competing with peers for steps). They reported initial unsustainable changes to their activities (ie, shaking the device, running in place), but over time began to make more sustainable changes (ie, participating more in PE). Thus, health tracking in diverse youth may be feasible for teaching healthy behaviors if combined with educational curricula but adequate training, programmatic support and technology access are also needed to sustain ongoing engagement. Supported by the National Science Foundation Cyberlearning grant IIS‐1217317.
Young Children's Screen Time and Obesity in the U.S. Affiliated Pacific: The Children's Healthy Living Program
Authors: Li Fenfang , Nigg Claudio , McGlone Katalina , Fialkowski Marie , Wilkens Lynne , Paulino Yvette , Belyeu‐Camacho Tayna , Bersamin Andrea , Areta Aufa'i , Novotny Rachel
Published: June 2021

Screen time is associated with adverse health outcomes among young children, including obesity. The purpose of this study is to describe screen time in young children and relate it to obesity from five U.S. Affiliated Pacific jurisdictions in the Children's Healthy Living Program.

In a sample of 3,331 children (2‐8 yo), mean overall screen time was 4.2 hours (h) per day (d) (sd=2.9), 4.1 h/d (sd=3.0) for weekdays, and 4.5 h/d (sd=3.3) for weekends. Mean time spent watching TV was 2.3 h/d (sd=1.4); playing inactive video games, 1.0 h/d (sd=1.2), and playing active video games, 0.9 h/d (sd=1.2). A linear regression model with screen time as the dependent variable found significant differences by child's sex, age, race, BMI status (based on CDC's definition of obesity), and jurisdiction. Mean screen time was higher by 0.43 h in girls than boys (p<.001), by 0.26 h in 6‐8 than 2‐5 year olds (p=0.01), and by 0.24 h in overweight/obese than healthy weight children (p=0.02). Mean screen time was higher among Asians and multiracial children than Whites (p<.001). Alaska had the lowest mean (3.3 h) while Guam the highest (4.9 h).

Similar results were found for TV watching and playing active or inactive video games by sex, age, race and jurisdiction. Mean time on active video games was 0.11 h higher in overweight/obese than healthy weight children (p=0.02). Mean TV time was 0.1 h higher in overweight/obese than healthy weight children (p=0.06).

Compared to healthy weight children, overweight/obese children had more screen time, and in particular, for playing active video games and TV viewing. Such findings have important intervention implications.
Health Disaster in Least Developed Countries because of Low Nutrition and Affordability
Authors: Rizwan Dr Attiya
Published: June 2021

Least developed countries in general and Pakistan in particular has a massive population of almost 20 millions. For the last ten years plus it's largely affected by the activities of extremists and shift of inhabitants from affected areas. Moreover 70 present population is serving with low nutrition diet. This segment of the population has high child birth rate minimum 4‐5 children per family. Low nutrition value not only affected the mother but also the born children. The one having wealth have 1‐2 childern and have healthy nutrition. Because of economic policies, country health care implementation plan there are likely chances that country will lead to massive health disaster side because of low nation diet getting by major sector of the population. Currant rate of population increase vis‐a vis‐a nutrition and health care support available to them is not comparable to developed countries.

Aim of this work is to present a complete program level Nutrion Improvement methodology and implementation plan in order to save the mother and child suffering from low NETRUTION and save this country from Health Disaster. This will not only support deprived segments of the country but also help them to engage in productive work so that they can support themself economically and participate in improving family diet.
Anthropometric measures of obesity and insulin resistance in Turkish patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sukhram Shiryn , Moore Calandra , Raiola Ryan , Huffman Fatma
Published: June 2021

Examining modifiable diabetes‐related risk measures could add to important insights to treatment and management in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study examined the associations between measures of obesity and insulin resistance (IR) in patients with T2D. A total of 110 Turkish participants, aged 30 years and older, were recruited in a cross‐sectional design. Height and weight were determined using a wall‐mounted stadiometer and a digital electronic scale. Waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were measured with a non‐stretchable measuring tape. Body mass index (weight/height), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WC/HC), and waist‐to‐height ratio (WC/height) were calculated. Fasting venous samples were obtained. Plasma glucose was measured by enzymatic method. Plasma insulin levels were determined using ELISA method. Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) index was used to determine IR based on the formula described by Matthews et al [fasting glucose (mmol/L) x fasting insulin (um/ml) / 22.5]. Correlation tests to evaluate the associations yield the following: WC has a significant association with HOMA‐IR (r = 0.26, p = 0.005), HC has a significant association with HOMA‐IR (r = 0.20, p = 0.03), weight has a significant association with HOMA‐IR (r = 0.20, p = 0.03). Further stratification within gender or age did not yield any significant association. Prospective studies to determine ethnic‐specific anthropometric cutoff values to predict IR are recommended to further verify these findings.
Heavy Metal Contents in Celosia argentea,Lycopersicon esculentum and Aloe Vera Planted on Contaminated Abule Egba Dump Soil
Authors: Oyelola Olukemi , Banjoko Immaculata , Ajiboshin Isaac , Ajayi Ayo , Babatunde Ibitoniola
Published: June 2021

Most residents use dump soil as manure to plant vegetables and Aloe Vera in their garden without knowledge of the level of heavy metal contaminated in the soil. It was this concern that prompted the determination of heavy metals in the edible part of Celosia argentea, Lycopersicum esculentum and Aloe Vera younger clone plants planted on the dump soil and the control on Yaba College of Technology Botanical garden. The plants were allowed to grow for eight weeks before harvested. The harvested samples were digested with acid and heavy metal concentrations were determined using Atomic Adsorption Spectrophotometry. The concentration of heavy metal in Celosia argentea from dump soil and the control in mg/g are Cu (13.21, 0.62), Zn (29.30, 0.76), Fe (48.51, 7.82), Cd (2.27, ND), Pb (3.64, ND) Ni (1.48, ND) respectively. The concentration in the edible part of Lycopersicum esculentum are: Cu (36.53, 2.16), Zn (46.84, 12.70), Fe (64.34, 18.23), Cd (3.70, ND), Pb (5.35, ND), Ni (2.57, ND) respectively. The concentration in the Aloe Vera tissue are: Cu (19.82, 1.86), Zn (28.19, 1.15), Fe (32.74, 2.43), Cd (1.22, ND), Pb (2.62, ND), Ni (1.17, ND) respectively. The heavy metal concentrations uptake in the plants is higher than the permissible levels set by FAO/WHO. These results show that the level of heavy metal contamination in dump soil is very high and not suitable as manure because of health hazard associated with the level of heavy metal contamination.
Research of the Head Family Food's Conception Perceived by the Different Age Groups
Authors: Chung Hae‐Kyung , Kim Mi‐Hye
Published: June 2021

The research aimed to provide an accurate and basic data that compares the different perceptions of head family's food and food for religious ceremonies depending on the age; the research was designed to set a right direction for the development of the traditional Korean food in order for it to be sustained and continued for future. The age diversity was: 211 participants (23.7%) in their 20 to 30s, 215 participants (33.3%) in their 40 to 50s, and 220 participants (34%) in their 60s or higher. The older generation appeared aware of the head family's definition, or 'the eldest's house of the head family', and the concrete concept of the one's family five generations ago than the head family of the younger generation. The family's role and meaning were more likely as 'succession of tradition' and as 'cultural symbols' for the younger generations; the older generations saw the family significance mainly as 'hallmark of the head family'. The experience of family ancestral rites and the head family's food apparently had a positive influence in shaping in the awareness of the head family's food. Moreover, the ones with experiences in practicing family ancestral rites approved of the necessity that the head family's food should be more popular. More positive the people were with the family's food, the more open minded they were with the possibility in which the head family's food could go mainstream. In conclusion, the positive perception of the head family's food and traditional pride resulted as a crucial environmental factor for the public support for the head family's food to become popular and more accessible to the public than in the past.

This work was supported by a grant from the Korean Rural Development Administration (PJ00997602).
Probabilistic Bioactive Food Compound Intakes in the European BACCHUS Project
Authors: Pigat Sandrine , O'Connor Rosalyn
Published: June 2021

Objective

The EU funded BACCHUS project aims to develop tools and resources to study relationships between bioactive food compound intakes and cardiovascular health in humans. To handle variation and uncertainty of bioactive levels in foods a probabilistic model of bioactive intakes was used to estimate distributions of population intakes.

Methods

To assess food bioactive intake distributions in Europe, national food intake surveys were used from the UK, the Netherlands, Norway and Spain. To account for variability and uncertainty of bioactive concentrations within foods, the foods consumed were linked to discrete bioactive concentration distributions using published data on plant based foods as captured in the eBasis database. Daily bioactive population intakes were calculated using a probabilistic intake model in the Creme Nutrition® software.

Results

Data shows apple (g/day) and catechin (mg/day) intakes from apples and apple products in the four countries.

Daily intakes (mg/day)
Ireland
UK
Spain
Norway

Mean (95%ile)
Mean (95%ile)
Mean (95%ile)
Mean (95%ile)

Apple + Apple Products
33 (135)
32 (129)
42 (183)
78 (300)

Catechin
1±0.1 (5.8±0.4)
1±0.1 (5.2±0.3)
1.3±0.06 (8±0.4)
2.5±0.14 (14.8±1.0)

Epicatechin
13±0.6 (56.5±3.5)
12.9±0.65 (54.5±3.6)
16.7±0.48 (73.1±2.4)
29.8±1.06 (119.6±6.0)

Epigallocatechin
22.4±0.9 (92.2±4.1)
21.7±1.0 (88.2±4.9)
28.9±0.8 (125.2±6.8)
53.1±1.8 (204.9±7.7)

Epicatechin‐gallate
0.1±0.0 (0.3±0.0)
0.1±0.0 (0.2±0.0)
0.1±0.0 (0.3±0.0)
0.1±0.0 (0.6±0.0)

Conclusion

This study enables the link between bioactive concentration levels in foods and representative population intakes, using probabilistic intake models to better estimate full intake distributions in a population.
A Review and Meta‐Analysis of Red Meat Consumption and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bylsma Lauren , Miller Paula , Alexander Dominik
Published: June 2021

This review aimed to update the state of the epidemiologic science by conducting a systematic review and meta‐analysis to estimate the potential association between red meat consumption and type 2 diabetes. A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify relevant prospective studies. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were conducted to generate summary relative risk estimates (SRREs) between intakes of total red meat and individual items and risk of type 2 diabetes. Heterogeneity was examined in sub‐group analyses. Meta regression, sensitivity, influence, and publication bias analyses were performed. A total of 20 studies were included and meta‐analyzed. Meta‐analysis of 13 independent cohorts of red meat intake and type 2 diabetes resulted in an SRRE of 1.18 (95% CI: 1.10‐1.26), but statistically significant heterogeneity was present (p‐H < 0.001, I2 = 64.08). Most meta‐analysis models produced summary associations ranging between 1.0 and 1.3, but statistically significant heterogeneity was present across the majority of the analyses. These results should be interpreted cautiously, as associations were relatively weak, confounding was significant across the individual studies, and methodological and statistical heterogeneity was considerable. It may be the interaction of dietary balance with favorable lifestyle choices that may provide the most meaningful impact on reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Funding provided by Meat & Livestock Australia
Vitamin K Status in Black and White Older Adults and its Relationship with Cardiovascular Disease Risk
Authors: Shea Kyla , Booth Sarah , Brinkley Tina , Kritchevsky Stephen
Published: June 2021

Vitamin K (VK) dependent proteins, such as matrix gla protein (MGP), are present in cardiovascular tissue. VK supplementation reduces arterial calcification, a marker of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Observational studies suggest higher VK intake is associated with lower CVD risk. Nutritional biomarkers are more objective measures of nutrient status than self‐reported intakes but the association between VK biomarkers and incident CVD has not been reported. We determined the association between VK status and incident CVD by measuring plasma phylloquinone (PK, vitamin K1) and uncarboxylated MGP (ucMGP) in 319 black and 385 white community‐dwelling older adults free of clinical CVD (67%F, 74±3yrs). Compared to whites, blacks were significantly less likely to have low plasma PK (defined as <0.2nM) [OR(95%CI) 0.46(0.21‐0.98)] and high ucMGP (reflective of lower VK status; defined as highest tertile) [OR(95%CI) 0.30(0.20‐0.46)]. There were 92 incident CVD events in whites and 78 in blacks after 12 years. In models adjusted for demographics, lifestyle factors and CVD risk factors, the HR(95%CI) for incident CVD associated with low plasma PK was 1.46(0.69‐3.09) in whites and 1.18(0.47‐3.01) in blacks. The adjusted HR(95%CI) for incident CVD associated with high ucMGP was 0.78(0.48‐1.28) in whites and 0.88 (0.47‐1.63) in blacks. VK status was not associated with incident CVD in blacks or whites, but the precision of our estimates suggests larger racially‐diverse studies are needed to clarify the relevance of VK nutritional status to CVD among racial groups. That low VK status was more prevalent in whites compared to blacks merits consideration in future studies of VK nutrition.
Greater Fasting Insulin is Associated with Prevalent Hypertension and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Black and White Adults
Authors: Gower Barbara , Bush Nikki , Pearson Keith , Judd Suzanne , Shikany James , Howard Virginia , Soliman Elsayad , Howard George
Published: June 2021

We tested the hypothesis that higher insulin is associated with prevalent Hypertension (HTN) and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH), and that dietary carbohydrates (CHO) are associated with insulin. Data were analyzed on 14,729 non‐diabetic participants of REGARDS, an observational study of adults aged >45 y. Logistic regression was used to examine the association of insulin quintile with prevalent HTN and LVH, adjusting for covariates. Participants with higher insulin were younger, had higher BMI, and were more likely to be black, male, live in the Southeast, and have a lower income and education. Participants in the highest quintile of fasting insulin had 3.4 times the odds of having HTN than those in the lowest quintile [OR 3.4, (3.04, 3.81), P for trend<0.001]. The relationship was stronger in whites [OR 3.70, (3.24, 4.24), P trend <0.001] than in blacks [OR 2.56, (2.06, 3.18), P trend <0.001; P<0.05 for race x insulin interaction]. The relationship with LVH was similar [OR 2.77, (2.23, 3.45), P trend <0.001]. Quintiles of % CHO, glycemic index, or glycemic load were not associated with insulin (P = 0.08‐0.13). In conclusion, greater insulin was associated with increased prevalence of HTN and LVH in both whites and blacks. Research is needed to determine if this association is causal, and if insulin‐related CVD risk can be decreased by modifying dietary CHO quantity or quality.
Mapping Nutrition Competencies Across the Medical Curriculum in an Entry Level Medical Course.
Authors: Nowson Caryl , Wells Jason , Perlstein Robyn
Published: June 2021

It is difficult to ascertain exactly how much nutrition is taught within entry‐level medical courses. To enable mapping of nutrition competencies within the medical curriculum we developed an online‐nutrition curriculum mapping tool. The aim was assess the nutrition content of the first two years of a 4‐year post‐graduate medical course. The tool was designed to map four knowledge and five skill based nutrition competencies and captured reported occasions of delivery of nutrition content and the form and location of assessment. Information was obtained from course and subject co‐ordinators. Out of a total 1757 learning objectives 156 (9%) were reported by a subject co‐ordinator to include coverage of nutrition competencies, which was made up of 368 teaching occasions. Review of the learning objectives indicated nutrition was explicitly mentioned in 49 (31%) of the 156 reported nutrition related learning objectives. The most common nutrition competencies were: “Demonstrate an understanding of the basic sciences in relation to nutrition”, “Demonstrate knowledge on the interactive role of nutrition in health and the prevention of disease” and “Demonstrate knowledge of the evidence based dietary strategies for prevention and treatment of disease. Subject co‐ordinators report that nutrition is included to a much greater degree than is reflected in the written learning objectives. Although there appears to be a significant amount of nutrition included, further review is required to clarify the extent to which nutrition competencies are formally assessed within the curriculum to confirm adequate coverage of basic nutrition competencies.