bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naltrexone Accelerates Full‐Thickness Cutaneous Wound Healing by Enhancing Remodeling
Authors: Immonen Jessica , Zagon Ian , McLaughlin Patricia
Published: June 2021

Patients with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) risk complications from impaired wound healing, and the pathophysiology of wound repair is poorly understood. Delayed repair of full‐thickness cutaneous wounds in T1D rats is reversed by blockade of the opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) with topically applied naltrexone (NTX), an opioid antagonist. NTX accelerates wound closure and angiogenesis of cutaneous wounds in both T1D and normal rats. To evaluate wound remodeling, streptozotocin‐induced T1D rats, and normal rats, with 6 mm cutaneous wounds, were topically treated with NTX or sterile saline in moisturizing cream (3x/day) for 20 days. Tissue specimens were evaluated for tensile strength, matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) expression and collagen maturation. Collagen maturation, as measured by Sirius red staining, revealed that T1D NTX‐treated wounds showed a 45‐fold increase in maturation compared to T1D controls after 20 days of treatment. On day 20, T1D controls had significantly less MMP‐9 expression within the wound compared to T1D NTX‐treated and normal rats. By day 60 post‐wounding, tensile strength values of wounds in T1D rats treated with NTX were comparable to those in normal rats, whereas vehicle treated T1D wounds displayed significantly lower tensile strengths. In summary, blockade of endogenous opioids by NTX provided a non‐toxic biological treatment that accelerated wound remodeling in T1D rats.

Grant Funding Source: American Diabetes Association
Craniofacial Suture Fusion in Primates
Authors: Cray James , Smith Timothy , Burrows Anne
Published: June 2021

Timing of craniofacial suture fusion is important to questions of demographics and primate ontogeny. There has been much work concerning the fusion of calvarial sutures over the last century, but little work focusing on facial sutures. Here we assess the relationships of facial suture fusion among primates. 1436 skulls of Homo, Pan, Gorilla, Pongo, Hylobates, Macaca and Papio were observed at 5 facial suture sites for stage of fusion. Calvarial volume (early) and dental eruption (late) were utilized as indicators of stage of ontogeny. Patterns of fusion were assessed by Gutmann scaling. Homogeneity of slopes and ANOVA were used to determine differences in timing of fusion. All groups demonstrated reproducible patterns of fusion within groups but variation suggesting slightly different sites of onset and termination of suture fusion between species groups. For calvarial growth, groups segregated by regression slopes, Homo having a very steep slope, indicating remodeling throughout ontogeny, less steep slopes for Pongo, Macaca, and Papio, and flat regression slopes Pan, Gorilla, and Hylobatiadae, indicating very early facial suture remodeling. Similar patterns are observed when dental eruption is used for staging. Thus, Homo appears to be unique in its delay and patency of sutures into late ontogeny. Only Gorilla and Hylobatidae are observed to, as a general rule, fuse all facial suture sites by senescence.

Grant Funding Source: N//A
Orbital growth in perinatal primates: a CT and histological study of soft tissue‐bone interfaces
Authors: Smith Timothy D , DeLeon Valerie B , Kentzel Ethan S , Cunningham Jayna M , Bruening Amanda E , Jankord Kathryn D , Trupp Sara J , Bonar Christopher J , Rehorek Susan J
Published: June 2021

Extant primates are notable for their relatively convergent, or forward‐facing orbits, although some other mammals exhibit similarities, such as a postorbital bar supporting the eye laterally. Here, we use a novel approach of co‐registering micro‐computed tomography (CT) scans of late fetal nonhuman primates with serial histological sections, to infer how orbital morphology emerges during ontogeny. We use three primates (loris, tarsier, tamarin) that have absolutely or allometrically large eyes, and draw a contrast to the tree shrew (Tupaia glis), which may more closely resemble ancestral primate cranial form. Serial slices were annotated to create three‐dimensional cranial reconstructions that reveal the distribution of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Reconstructions revealed that the superomedial orbit is resorptive in all primate species, although the amount of medial resorption is greatest in the tarsier and tamarin. In contrast, the orbit of Tupaia is depositional except for small inferomedial foci adjacent to infraorbital nerves. Broadly, orbital growth remodeling patterns in primates may be explained by the degree of orbital convergence, which far exceeds that in Tupaia. However, the three primates vary in the degree of orbital convergence and frontation, suggesting that a different factor (e.g., proportional eye size) may influence the similarities in orbital growth patterns.
Palatal allometry of cercopithecines and hominoids
Authors: Hotzman Jennifer Lane
Published: June 2021

Palate morphology influences mechanical environment since it affects load distribution. Body size also necessarily influences palate morphology, but what is the general effect of body size on palate size and shape? Palatal and facial dimensions from 23 species of cercopithecines and hominoids were measured and then subjected to allometric scaling analysis. Facial measurements were used as a proxy for body size since weight was unknown for these specimens. For the analysis, the species were grouped phylogenetically.

Using skull length as the size proxy resulted in papionins and colobines having palatal dimensions disproportionate at larger body sizes given the results of positive allometry. Therefore their palates increased in size disproportionately to their skull. Some palatal dimensions of the hominoids also increased disproportionately compared to facial or skull size while others were proportionate. The phylogenetic groups scaled idiosyncratically, so there does not seem to be a general “anthropoid” scaling pattern based on the palate. Many species showed positive allometry for several palatal dimensions indicating the palates are increasing disproportionately to skull and facial size. However this statement must be made with caution since the facial dimension used as a size proxy affected the outcome of the results.

Grant Funding Source: None
Mirroring human monoamine oxidases A and B: Similar structures with opposite mechanisms of C‐H bond cleavage
Authors: Orru Roberto , Aldeco Milagros , Edmondson Dale E
Published: June 2021

Due to their importance in age‐related degenerative diseases, mammalian monoamine oxidases A and B (MAO A and B) have been the object of extensive studies. The mechanistic description for the MAO‐catalyzed oxidation of amines is controversial resulting in three different proposed mechanism including a hydride ion abstraction (Fitzpatrick, 2010), a proton abstraction involving an intermediate covalent adduct on the flavin (Miller and Edmondson, 1999), or a proton abstraction following a radical pair formation (Lu et al., 2002). It is largely assumed that MAO A and MAO B follow the same mechanistic pathway. Comparison of the influence of para substituents on reaction rates by steady‐state and stopped‐flow kinetic analysis has been used to determine electronic effects of various benzylamine analogs. Human MAO A exhibits a positive ρ (+1.4) characteristic of a H+ abstraction while human MAO B exhibits a negative ρ (−0.9) characteristic of a Habstraction. These results suggest the two enzymes follow differing catalytic mechanisms thus demonstrating the assumption they follow identical mechanisms is not correct.

Supported by grant GM‐29344 from the NIH.
The visualization and localization of glycogen in Caki‐2 renal carcinoma cells
Authors: Lundbeck Briana , Danielson Carl , Parker Glendon
Published: June 2021

Glycogen is a polymer of glucose that is used to store glucose in cells. Glycogen is found in abundance in clear carcinoma cells. Although the processes surrounding the metabolism and synthesis of glycogen have been well studied, less is known about the intracellular location of glycogen and the pattern of glycogen use. We have developed a method to visualize glycogen in renal carcinoma cells that utilizes a glucose derivative, 2‐{N‐[7‐ nitrobenz‐2‐oxa‐1, 3‐diazol 4‐yl] amino}‐2‐deoxyglucose (2 NBDG), which incorporates into glycogen and fluoresces upon exposure to ultra violet light. The treated cells can then be visualized using fluorescent microscopy. Results have shown that glycogen is distributed throughout the cell, with accumulation on endoplasmic membranes. When we co‐incubate the cells with both 2‐NBDG and an endoplasmic reticulum specific fluorescent dye, we observe a high degree of co‐localization. This method will be used to compare the glycogen patterns in the cells over short time frames, and determine the relationship between glycogen and intracellular structures. We hypothesize that changes will be seen in the distribution and amount of glycogen in the cell in response to variations in physiological conditions, such as short term glucose levels, hormone treatments, such as insulin treatment, and iron depletion which we have shown to induce glycogen accumulation. This work has been supported by the Scholarly Activity Committee at Utah Valley University.
Characterization of a Glycoprotein of TTP4000 – A Soluble Decoy RAGE Antagonist
Authors: Freeman Jennifer L.R. , Zhou Bin , Meuth Joseph L. , Abu‐Hashem Nadim , Mjalli Adnan M.M. , Kostura Matthew J.
Published: June 2021

RAGE is a member of the Ig supergene family that binds amyloid beta with nanomolar affinity. Amyloid beta is implicated in the pathology of neurodegenerative Alzheimer's disease. We have developed TTP4000, a novel fusion protein that has similar ligand binding characteristics as sRAGE but a superior pharmacokinetic profile. TTP4000 was shown to significantly reduce soluble, brain Aβ levels in a mouse model of Alzheimers disease which correlates with a decrease in plaque load, reduction in inflammatory cytokine levels and improved measures of behavior. In this study we investigated the role of glycosylation on TTP4000 ligand binding activity. Incubation of wildtype TTP4000 with PNGase F and endoglycosidases to remove glycans results in improved ligand binding activity. Treatment of cells with 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose results in reduced glycosylation and a slight increase in Aβ binding activity. We also show a relationship between reduction of TTP4000 glycosylation and increased ligand binding activity following mutation of N‐linked glycan sites that prevent glycosylation of TTP4000 at asparagines 2, 58, and 288. The N2Q‐R198A mutant showed 48 fold greater affinity in the Aβ binding assay when compared to wildtype. We also observed reduced expression levels of TTP4000 mutants when too much glycan was removed. The data herein demonstrate the importance of glycosylation for both stability and ligand binding activity in the design of a RAGE peptide antagonist.
Temporal and combinatorial control of pro‐resolution eicosanoid formation in TLR4 primed, purinergic receptor stimulated macrophages
Authors: Norris Paul , Dennis Edward
Published: June 2021

Macrophages are critical immune cells for initiating the innate immune response, partly through generation of pro‐inflammatory lipid mediators including eicosanoids. Using LC‐MS lipidomics we have previously characterized the effects of fish oil omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation on TLR4 and purinergic eicosanoid signaling in RAW264.7 and resident macrophages. Supplementation of EPA or DHA leads to inhibition of COX‐1 and COX‐2 arachidonic acid derived pro‐inflammatory prostaglandins, but not inhibition of 5‐LOX in these cells. Consequently, fish oil supplementation can increase production of 5‐LOX AA, EPA and DHA‐derived mono‐hydroxylated metabolites after purinergic stimulation. More recently, we have observed endogenous formation of the pro‐resolution mediator, 15‐epi lipoxin A4, which was dependent on long‐term TLR4 priming followed by P2X7 stimulation with ATP. While mostly trans‐cellular mechanisms have been proposed to explain the switch to pro‐resolution eicosanoid signaling, our finding suggests macrophages can do this through a novel, independent route that requires temporal and combinatorial receptor‐mediated control. We are now characterizing the effects of fish oil omega‐3 supplementation on this mechanism.
Differential roles of Opi1 and Pah1 in the metabolism and regulation of phospholipid biosynthetic genes
Authors: Gaspar Maria , Chang Yu‐Fang , Henry Susan
Published: June 2021

In yeast, phosphatidic acid (PA), a common metabolic precursor to both phospholipids and triacylglycerol, influences the localization of Opi1, a negative regulator of transcription of phospholipid biosynthetic genes. PA levels are also regulated in part by the activity of the yeast lipin Pah1. We are investigating the extent to which Opi1 and Pah1 compete for the same PA pool in the endoplasmic reticulum. Since changes in PA levels regulate expression of phospholipid biosynthetic genes, such as INO1, we analyzed the derepression of this gene in wild type and pah1Δ strains during the transition from inositol supplementation to medium lacking inositol. Wild type cells exhibit a peak of INO1 derepression at about 3 hours after removal of inositol while the pah1Δ strain reaches its maximum at 5 hours. In both strains INO1 expression decreased precipitously after reaching its peak. We are currently exploring the relationships between changes in PA content and relocalization of Opi1 to the perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum in wild type, pah1Δ and a series of Pah1 nonphosphorylatable alanine mutants from Carman laboratory.

Supported by NIH grant GM‐19629 to SAH
HYPERGLYCEMIA INDUCES AN ANTI‐ANGIOGENIC MILIEU IN FIRST TRIMESTER CYTOTROPHOBLAST CELL
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Nasir , Horvat Darijana , Roth Amanda L. , Pringle Kirsty G. , Allen Steven R. , Jones Richard O. , Zawieja David C. , Kuehl Thomas J.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Gestational diabetes occurs in 3–14 % of all pregnancies and has a 3–12 fold increased risk of developing preeclampsia (PreE). The first trimester cytotrophoblast (CTB) cells are involved in the vascular remodeling during placental development and PreE is believed, in part, to be caused by the dysfunction of CTBs. The aim of this study is to determine whether excess glucose induces anti‐angiogenic effects in CTBs in vitro.

Methods

Human extravillous CTB cells (Sw.71), derived from first trimester placenta were treated with 90, 180, 450 and 900 mg/dl glucose for 72 h. Thereafter, the cell lysates were utilized to measure vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐1, angiotensin 1 (AT1) and AT2 receptor expression, while the levels of angiogenic and anti‐angiogenic factors were measured in the cell culture media.

Results

AT2 receptor expression was significantly upregulated in ≥ 180 mg/dl glucose‐treated CTBs compared to basal; however, the AT1 and VEGFR‐1 receptor expression were downregulated at ≥ 450 mg/dl. sFlt‐1 and sEnd secretion were increased while VEGF and PIGF were decreased in the culture media of CTB cells treated with ≥ 180 mg/dl glucose.

Conclusions

Exposure of CTB cells to glucose causes an induction of anti‐angiogenic profile by: (i) upregulating the AT2; and (ii) downregulating AT1 and VEGF‐1; (iii) increasing secretion of sFlt‐1 and sEnd; and (iv) decreasing secretion of VEGF and PlGF.
Incorporating genome annotation with the Genomics Education Partnership (GEP) in an undergraduate biochemistry course
Authors: Bednarski April Elaine
Published: June 2021

A computer‐based lab was developed to accompany the second semester of a year‐long biochemistry sequence. The goal for this lab was to emphasize the importance of computers in modern biochemical research. Lecture covered signaling, metabolic pathways, and genome structure and organization. Students began by using the bioinformatics programs BLAST, OMIM, and KEGG, to analyze the impact of a DNA mutation on protein structure and function in a biochemical pathway. In the second module students learned about microarrays through research articles and online curriculum from GCAT (www.bio.davidson.edu/gcat) then worked with a microarray data set. The third module on genome annotation spans the final eight weeks of the laboratory. This module used curriculum generated by the GEP (www.gep.wustl.edu) and included three weeks of introduction to the UCSC Genome Browser and FlyBase followed by four weeks of annotating raw sequence data from Drosophila and a week of project presentations. During this module, students received data and had access to tools from the GEP. Assessment results indicate that students had a better understanding of how computers are used in biochemical research, gained understanding of genome organization, and enjoyed the collaborative nature of the genome annotation research project.
The Pre‐health Collection within MedEdPORTAL's iCollaborative: Faculty resources to prepare students for the MCAT2015.
Authors: Jakubowski Henry Vincent , Zapanta Laura S.
Published: June 2021

The new MCAT2015 exam is demanding a reexamination of course content and outcome requirements. This is especially true as assessable competencies rather than specified courses gain increasing emphasis and specific content becomes a vehicle to promote the critical thinking skills of analysis, application and evaluation. To assist undergraduate teaching faculty in preparing students for the biochemistry competencies of the MCAT2015 exam, the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) has developed the Pre‐Health Collection within MedEdPORTAL's iCollaborative. The iCollaborative provides faculty and students at medical schools with web‐based, peer‐reviewed instructional materials. The Pre‐Health Collection contains web resources to help faculty who teach undergraduate students incorporate high quality teaching material which are specifically reviewed to address pre‐health competencies. To increase the number and quality of teaching resources for biochemistry within the Pre‐Health Collection, a community of users and contributors are needed. A description of the Pre‐Health Collection and the process for participating and making contributions will be presented. Support provided by the AAMC.
Eating attitudes, behaviors, and associated psychographic characteristics of college students: Are there differences in those with and without nutrition majors?
Authors: Quick Virginia , Byrd‐Bredbenner Carol
Published: June 2021

Previous research has cautioned against including nutrition majors in health behavior studies based on the assumption that these students are more cognizant of health behaviors. Thus, this study examined whether eating attitudes, behaviors, and associated psychographic characteristics differ in students with and without nutrition majors. College students (n=2444; 56% White; 63% female) enrolled at 3 large, public U.S. universities completed an online survey that included reliable, valid instruments assessing eating behavior and associated psychographic characteristics. ANCOVA, controlling for weight status and gender, revealed few significant differences between those with (n=543) and without nutrition majors (n=1901). The only significant (p<0.05) differences were that non‐nutrition majors had greater weight concerns, more likely to measure themselves and their self‐worth by their appearance, tended to categorize food dichotomously (i.e., “good” or “bad”), and recalled more stress during childhood mealtimes than nutrition majors. Findings suggest that eating attitudes and behaviors are not significantly different between nutrition and non‐nutrition majors; however, psychographic characteristics associated with eating behaviors may differ. Future research should provide substantiated rationales for excluding nutrition majors in health behavior research.

Grant Funding Source: This research was supported in part by the intramural research program of the National Institutes of Health, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the Kappa Omicron Nu Research Fellowship.
A Rural Small Food Store Intervention Improves Healthy Food Availability: Results of the Maryland Healthy Stores Pilot
Authors: Steeves Elizabeth T Anderson , Rowan Megan T , Thomas Linda , Penniston Erin , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

In the U.S., obesity rates are greater among rural residents than their urban and suburban counterparts. Store‐based nutrition interventions have been tested as a strategy to increase healthy food availability in urban areas, yet it is unknown how well these interventions translate to a rural setting. Four small food stores in rural Maryland received a 4‐month, quasi‐experimental pilot intervention, and 4 stores served as comparison. Study stores were selected by evaluating food availability in each eligible store, then randomly selecting and recruiting from a sampling frame of stores with low and medium food availability. From pre to post‐intervention, stocking of healthy foods increased in intervention stores, compared with control stores, and psychosocial factors of intervention storeowners trended positively compared to control storeowners. The study demonstrated that rural small store interventions to increase the stocking and promotion of healthy foods can result in increased healthy food availability and increases in store owners stocking and sales expectations. Working in small stores in low‐income rural settings may be a feasible means of improving the availability of healthy foods in rural communities with the potential to increase consumption of healthier foods. Supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (grant number 3U58DP001972–01S2).
Interdependency between physical education and food environment in school on students’ energy balance: an agent‐based model
Authors: Chen Hsin‐Jen , Xue Hong , Wang Youfa
Published: June 2021

Background

Requiring students to attend physical education (PE) class can promote their physical activity (PA) in school, while vending machine and soda are prevalent in middle schools in the US.

Objective

To test the complex interactions between students’ PA, school environment, and students’ water/beverage drinking choices and energy intake.

Methods

Agent‐based models (ABM), a system science model, simulated students’ energy expenditure (EE) during PE, their dehydration, and fluid intake through soda vending machine and/or water fountains. The models incorporated physiological dynamics of human body water during exercise and individual economical decision making rules.

Results

The models showed higher prevalence of dehydration status for longer PE duration, which took time after PE to rehydrate. Average offset of EE due to the presence of vending machine in school ranged 40–70 kcal/person. The offset expanded with longer PE, but shrank with more water fountains in school.

Conclusions

The simulation revealed the benefit of extending PE on EE, its potential effect on students’ dehydration, and the competition between soda vending machines and water fountains on the offset of EE. Systems models can help evaluate the benefits and unintended consequences of environment intervention programs, by integrating behavioral rules on the complex relationships between environment and human behaviors.

Grant Funding Source: NIH (3U54HD070725–02S1, 1R01HD064685–01A1)
Plasma and breastmilk selenium in HIV‐infected Malawian mothers is positively associated with infant selenium status at 2 or 6 and 24 weeks post‐partum but is not associated with maternal supplementation
Authors: Flax Valerie L. , Bentley Margaret E. , Combs Gerald F. , Chasela Charles S. , Kayira Dumbani , Tegha Gerald , Daza Eric J. , Kourtis Athena P. , Jamieson Denise J. , van der Horst Charles M. , Adair Linda S.
Published: June 2021

Low dietary selenium (Se) intake coupled with low plasma Se concentrations in HIV infection could result in low breastmilk Se intake by exclusively breastfed infants of HIV+ women. HIV+ Malawian mothers in the Breastfeeding, Antiretrovirals, and Nutrition study were randomized at delivery to receive daily lipid‐based nutrient supplements (LNS) containing 1 RDA of Se or no LNS. In a sub‐sample of 514 mothers and their uninfected infants, we measured plasma and breastmilk Se concentrations at 2 or 6 wk (depending on availability of infant samples) and 24 wk postpartum. Using linear regression, we found no association between LNS and maternal plasma or breastmilk at any time point. Subsequently, we analyzed the combined study arms. Mean maternal (81.1–86.1 ng/mL) and infant (55.6–60.7 ng/mL) plasma Se increased, while breastmilk Se levels declined (14.4–9.8 ng/mL) from 2 or 6 to 24 wk (all p<0.001). Estimated mean infant Se intakes (10.2 μg/d at 2 or 6 wk and 7.6 μg/d at 24 wk) met WHO recommendations. Higher breastmilk Se was associated with higher infant plasma Se at 2 or 6 and 24 wk (p<0.001), regardless of LNS arm. Similar patterns of change in Se levels in breastmilk and maternal and infant plasma have been documented and are probably physiological. The lack of Se supplementation effect may be related to the low dose (75 μg/d) compared to other trials. Support: CDC (U48‐DP000059–01), Gates Foundation (OPP53107)
Trend in sources of sodium in the US diet over the last decade: Analysis of What We Eat In America (WWEIA)/National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2010
Authors: Fulgoni Victor L , Spence Lisa A , Samuel Priscilla
Published: June 2021

WWEIA data were used to assess sodium intake and sources in the diets of those 2+ years of age (N=42,151) over the last decade. Regression analyses were conducted to determine a p‐for trend across the five NHANES data releases, 2001–2010. Average, covariate adjusted, sodium intake over the decade was 3406 ± 9 mg/d. Major contributors of sodium (mean ± SE, mg/d) in the diet across the decade were Grains (1317 ± 10); Meat, Poultry, Fish (MPF) and Mixtures (985 ± 10); Vegetables (393 ± 6); and Milk and Milk Products (293 ± 3). Sodium intake has increased across the decade by 63 mg/d per 2 yr release (p‐for trend <0.0001). The largest increase in sodium was from MPF and Mixtures (45 mg/d per release, p<0.0001) with Poultry increasing 20.3 mg/d (p<0.0001) and MPF with Nonmeat Items increasing 14.1 mg/d (p<0.05) per release, respectively. There were smaller increases in Vegetables (10 mg/d per release, p<0.05) and Sugars, Sweets, and Beverages (11 mg/d per release, p<0.001). There was also a small, but significant, decrease in sodium from Fats, Oils, and Salad Dressings (7 mg/d per release, p<0.0001).While sodium from Grains was consistent across the releases, White Bread, Rolls and Salty Snacks From Grain Products decreased 9.2 (p<0.0001) and 4.2 (p<0.05) mg/d per release while Mixtures Mainly Grain, Pasta, or Bread increased 14.1 mg/d per release, respectively. Sodium intakes have continued to increase over the last 10 years and solutions to help decrease dietary intakes are greatly needed. Funded by Tate & Lyle Health & Nutrition Sciences.
Nutritional correlates of latent tuberculosis infection in the United States (1999–2000)
Authors: Yu Elaine A , Mehta Saurabh
Published: June 2021

Nutritional status modulates immune response to infections and can alter risk of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis. We assessed correlations between nutritional status indicators (micronutrient serum biomarkers; anthropometry) and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2000 (n=7386). LTBI was evaluated by mean induration in response to tuberculin skin test (TST). LTBI prevalence was 4.2%, as previously reported (5.1% males, 3.2% females). Positive TST was observed in 0.8% of individuals with low (<10th percentile), 4.0% of those with normal (10–75th percentile), and 5.8% of those with high (>;75th percentile) subscapular skinfold thickness. >; 75th percentile subscapular skinfold thickness was associated with positive TST (>;1.5‐fold increased odds), adjusting for known sociodemographic and health‐related risk factors, including foreign birth, household contact with TB case, and BCG scar. Available micronutrient serum biomarker levels and mid‐upper arm circumference were not associated with TST (p>;0.05), controlling for covariates. Smoking was also positively associated with LTBI (OR 2.09, 95% CI: 1.40–3.11).

Grant Funding Source: None
Does early or frequent pumping increase milk production and exclusive breastfeeding among mothers delivering preterm?
Authors: Murase Masahiko , Taki Motohiro , Mizuno Katsumi , Miyazawa Tokuo , Nakano Yuya , Aizawa Madoka , Nommsen‐Rivers Laurie , Morrow Ardythe , Itabashi Kazuo
Published: June 2021

It is optimal for preterm infants to receive their mother fs own milk, but mother's milk output is often too small to meet infant needs. We reviewed medical records for mothers delivering at <32 wk (Jan/2008–Dec/2010) to determine if early or frequent pumping increases mother fs milk output. Early Group (EG, n=20) mothers initiated pumping <12 h, while the Late Group (LG, n=20) initiated pumping >;12 h, after delivery. LG mothers were randomly selected to frequency match EG mothers on gestational age; EG and LG mothers did not differ on birth weight, maternal age, delivery mode or parity. EG were more likely than LG mothers to have above median (p=0.004) milk output on postpartum day 1, but not for days1–5. However, frequency of pumping predicted above median milk output over days 1–5 (p=0.035). Further, more frequent pumping on day 3 was associated with more exclusive breastfeeding at discharge (p=0.047). Thus, in this sample of Japanese mothers who delivered preterm, we did not observe differences in milk output after day 1 in those who initiated pumping within 12 h of delivery, but pumping frequency was associated with milk output over days 1–5 and exclusive breastfeeding at discharge. A larger study of early and frequent pumping is ongoing.
Do you know obesity when you see it? A study of the relationship between Body Mass Index and health indices
Authors: Arnhold Michelle
Published: June 2021

As the number of obese individuals in our communities increases, is obesity becoming the new “normal”? The inability to visually discriminate between healthy weight and obesity may contribute to the obesity epidemic. This study used a survey to determine eating habits, activity levels, and the ability to identify correct weight status (determined by Body Mass Index [BMI]) of images of volunteers. Additionally we calculated BMI of all study participants using height and weight and measured blood pressure and resting heart rate as health indices. Survey questions were categorized and point values were assigned to survey answers and health indices. Relationships between participant BMI and various survey categories and health indices were examined. Interestingly, when categorizing weight status, participants underestimated the weight status of healthy volunteers as underweight. Overweight or obese volunteers were categorized as healthy or overweight respectively. These data suggest that individuals are unable to correctly identify weight status, and in fact, consistently underestimate weight status. As the obesity epidemic grows and overweight and obese individuals see more people that look like them, they may be less likely to take action and manage their weight.
Phosphorus Supplementation Increases Thermic Response to Glucose Solution in Healthy Lean Subjects
Authors: Bassil Maya , Zeeni Nadine , Obeid Omar
Published: June 2021

Thermic effect of food (TEF) is believed to be largely related to ATP production that is known to depend on phosphorus (P) availability. We hypothesised that the addition of P to a glucose load would enhance ATP production resulting in an increase in TEF. To test this hypothesis, we measured the TEF of glucose solution with or without P in seven healthy subjects (3M 4F; Age=21.1±0.8y; BMI= 23.2 ±1.3kg/m2) in a cross over design with 1 week washout period. After a 10‐h overnight fast, subjects drank a standardized 296mL solution containing 75g glucose, with P (500mg) or placebo pills. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was measured every 30 min for 3 hours. Baseline fasting resting metabolic rate (RMR) and VO2 did not differ between the 2 studies (1.2±0.2kcal/min and 250±37mL/min, respectively; p=0.92). Addition of P was associated with higher increase in VO2 (959±315 vs. 534±274 mL/60min; p= 0.03) which corresponded to higher TEF (5.7±1.6 vs. 3.6and±1.3kcal/60min; p=0.03 equivalent to 8% vs. 5% increase from RMR) during the first 60 min. VO2 and TEF did not differ between the studies afterwards. In conclusion, postprandial energy expenditure was further stimulated after drinking glucose solution with than without P. These results highlight the role of P in energy expenditure and thus energy balance.
Evaluation of a new whole room indirect calorimeter for measurement of resting metabolic rate
Authors: Whyte Kathryn J. , Rising Russell , Albu Jeanine J. , Pi‐Sunyer Xavier
Published: June 2021

Objective

Compare a new whole room indirect calorimeter (WRIC) for measuring resting metabolic rate (RMR) against a metabolic cart (MC).

Methods

Simulated RMR (kcal/d), RQ (VCO2/VO2) and air flow (L/min) were obtained by performing 10 one‐hour propane (99.5% purity) combustion tests within the new WRIC (Promethion GA‐6 and FG‐1, Sable Systems Intl, Las Vegas, NV) and then with a MC (Vmax Encore, Carefusion Inc, San Diego, CA) utilizing a modified canopy hood. The propane was weighed before and after each test. Both the WRIC and MC were calibrated prior to each test according to the respective manufacturer's instructions. Calculated RMR and RQ from propane combustion were compared to simulated metabolic values. All data were extrapolated to 24‐hours and analyzed using SPSS (Ver.13).

Results

Calculated and simulated RMR for the WRIC ranged from 1861.4 to 3021.1 and 1828.2 to 3067.8 while that for the MC were 1450.6 to 2082.6 and 1353.6 to 2304.0, respectively. RQ for the WRIC and MC from propane ranged from 0.59 to 0.62 and 0.57 to 0.60, respectively. Compared to propane simulated RMR for the WRIC and MC varied by 0.80±1.5 and 2.0±8.8%, respectively. However, in comparison to calculated individual values, there was greater variability of simulated RMR (−10.8 to +13.1%) across the 10 propane combustion tests for the MC versus that for the WRIC (−1.6 to 2.3%). Finally, air flow for the WRIC and MC were 98.95 ± 0.38 and 44.40 ± 1.50, respectively.

Conclusions

The WRIC was more precise than the MC. The imprecision of the MC may contribute to intermittent large errors of RMR thus possibly effecting outcomes when used for calorie prescription.
Birth Weight and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in U.S. Children and Adolescents
Authors: Zhang Zhiying , Kris‐Etherton Penny , Hartman Terryl
Published: June 2021

The present study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between birth weight and cardiovascular disease among youth. We studied eligible children and adolescents (6–15 y) using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles 2001–2010. Survey and examination data included demographic and early childhood characteristics, history of diabetes and use of related medications, current health status, physical activity information, and anthropometric measurements, dietary data (total energy, fat, sodium, and total sugar intakes). Cardiovascular disease risk factors included systolic blood pressure (SBP), plasma C‐reactive protein (CRP) and lipid profiles. Results indicated that birth weight was inversely associated with SBP among girls; SBP levels increased 1.7 mmHg for each 1,000g decrease in birth weight (p<0.001) after controlling for potential confounders. In general, the associations between CRP and lipid profiles and birth weight were not significant overall; however, the associations with low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels varied across racial groups. Among Mexican Americans, LDL‐C increased 4.9 mg/dL for each 1,000 g increase in birth weight (p=0.028); among non‐Hispanic Blacks, LDL‐C increased 4.7 mg/dL for each 1,000g decrease in birth weight (p=0.017); however, there was no significant relationship among non‐Hispanic Whites (p=0.147). In summary, these results support a role for low birth weight, independent of the strong effects of current body weight status, as a contributor to CVD risk status in youth. Since CVD begins in childhood, low birth weight may be an important contributing factor to coronary events later in life.
Association between ABCA1 R230C polymorphism, dietary intake, anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters in subjects with and without metabolic syndrome
Authors: Medina‐Vera Isabel , Guevara‐Cruz Martha , Aguilar‐Lopez Miriam , Erazo‐Tapia Edmundo , Vazquez‐Manjarrez Natalia , Flores‐Lopez Adriana , Jimenez‐Rolland Edith , Lopez‐Romero Patricia , Tovar Armando R , Torres Nimbe
Published: June 2021

Approximately, 20% of the adult Mexican population shows a polymorphism (SNP) in the ABCA1 gene (R230C) associated with low HDL‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) concentration, obesity and diabetes. On the other hand, 40–50% of the adults have metabolic syndrome (MetS). Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the presence of the ABCA1 polymorphism and food intake on blood lipids, anthropometric measurements, physical activity and energy expenditure in 298 Mexican subjects with and without MetS (71 men, 227 women). The frequency of the non‐common allele (T) was 11%. The frequency of homozygous for the non‐common allele (C230C) and heterozygous (R230C) was 19.3%. The frequency of R230C and C230C of ABCA1 gene was similar in patients with and without MetS. However, the subjects with and without MetS with R230C and C230C SNP, as the energy intake increased the serum HDL‐C increased. However, HDL‐C remained constant as the energy intake increased in women with MetS and R230C and C230C SNP. Grant CONACYT 181685 (to MGC).

Grant Funding Source: CONACYT
The Effects of Various Consumption Levels of High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) and Sucrose on Circulating Glucose, Insulin, Leptin, Active Ghrelin and Triglycerides.
Authors: Fullerton Zhiping , Lowndes Joshua , Sinnett Stephanie , Rippe James
Published: June 2021

This study examined the metabolic effects of HFCS and sucrose on energy regulating hormones and metabolic substrates at three different levels of consumption.

138 overweight or obese individuals aged 20–60 years old incorporated 1% fat milk sweetened with either sucrose or HFCS into their usual diet for ten weeks. Consumption levels were set so the added sugar contributed 8%, 18% or 30% of calories required for weight maintenance (25th, 50th or 90th percentile of adult fructose consumption levels respectively). Prior to and after the 10‐week intervention, 24 hour blood samples were collected. Area under the curve (AUC) for glucose, insulin, leptin, active ghrelin, and triglyceride were measured.

AUC for the 24 hour duration was unchanged for glucose (p.0.05) and active ghrelin (p>;0.05), while there were increases for insulin (p<0.05), leptin and triglyceride (both p<0.001). The amount or type of sugar did not affect any of the observed responses (interaction p>;0.05).

There is no difference in the metabolic effect of HFCS and sucrose at low, medium, and high levels of consumption. The impact of HFCS and sucrose on energy regulating hormones at these three doses is the same.
The Role of Substrate Oxidation on Food Intake Regulation in Normal‐Weight Boys and Men
Authors: Hunschede Sascha , El Khoury Dalia , Smith Chris , Antoine‐Jonville Sophie , Thomas Scott , Anderson Harvey
Published: June 2021

The effect of metabolic flexibility and the associated changes in substrate oxidation (measured via respiratory exchange ratio; RER) on short‐term food intake (FI) is not well understood. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between RER after a glucose drink (GL) and exercise (EX) on FI and energy balance (EB) in normal body weight (BW) boys (N=15;age:9–12y) and men (N=15;age:20–30y). Subjects participated in 4 conditions in random order. They received either water or the GL followed by moderate EX or rest. Measures included RER, energy expenditure (EE), FI at a pizza meal and EB as the sum of GL+FI minus EE. FI/kg BW was lowered by GL (p<0.0001) and further reduced by GL with EX (GL by EX interaction p = 0.0025). EB/kg BW was reduced by EX (p<0.0001) and increased by GL (p=0.031). RER was higher after both GL (p<0.0001) and EX (p=0.004). The increase in RER, indicating higher carbohydrate oxidation, was negatively correlated with FI/kg BW (r=−0.20;p=0.029). It can be concluded that FI/kg BW is reduced when the portion of energy coming from carbohydrates is increased and that EB/Kg BW is lowered by EX induced anorexia at low to moderate EX intensities in both boys and men.

Grant Funding Source: Canadian Institutes of Health Research ‐ CIHR
Analysis of antioxidant activity of silicon in vitro and murine macrophages
Authors: Choi Mi‐Kyeong , Kim Eun‐Jin , Bu So‐Young , Sung Mi‐Kyung , Jo Chae‐Won , Kang Myunghwa
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activity of silicon (Si) in vitro. The antioxidant activity of Si was investigated by using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical‐scavenging, hydroxyl radical scavenging, hydrogen radical scavenging and SOD‐liked activity. Also murine macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7) was utilized to determine the effect of Si on the production of nitric oxide. DPPH radical scavenging activity was 16.7% in 10 uM, 18.0% in 50 uM and 20.0% 100 uM of Si. SOD‐liked activity was 20.5% in 50 uM, 28.0% in 100 uM and 40.9% in 10 mM of Si. Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity of Si was not found at a low concentration but the effect was found at a concentration of 1 M of Si. Hydrogen radical scavenging activity was 24.2% in 25 uM, 26.1% in 50 uM, 29.9% in 100 uM and 29.3% in 10 mM of Si. Macrophages were plated for 6 hours, stimulated with either LPS (10ng/ml) as an inflammatory reagent or LPS with Si (1, 5, 10, 25, 50 uM), doses of which does not affect cell viability. By 24 and 48hrs treatment, Si dose‐dependently decreased the LPS‐induced nitric oxide production. As results, we conclude that Si has an antioxidant property in test tube and biological condition. “This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (2011–0010880)”
Zn deficiency promotes calcification in vascular smooth muscle cells independent of ALP action and in part by Pit1 up‐regulation
Authors: Kwun In‐Sook , Alcantara Ethel H. , Shin Mee‐Young , Beattie John H.
Published: June 2021

Zn deficiency more recently has been related to the development of cardiovascular disease, which involves aberrant calcification. ALP is a key regulator in osteogenic calcification to increase local inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration. Even though vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) generally do not express alkaline phosphatase (ALP), its presence has been reported on calcified VSMCs. However, under Zn deficiency, our initial findings showed undetectable level of ALP activity in VSMCs at calcifying conditions. We therefore hypothesized that Zn deficiency‐induced calcification may not be initiated by ALP in VSMCs. To test this hypothesis, we cultured rat aortic A7r5 VSMCs using β‐glycerophosphate (β‐GP, as ALP substrate, 0–15 mM) or Na phosphate (NaP, as non‐ALP substrate, 0–7 mM) as source of Pi under Zn deficiency (1 μM) for up to 15 days to induce VSMC calcification. Under Zn deficiency, P and Ca accumulation (calcification) increased with increasing NaP concentration (3–7 mM) but not with β‐GP treatment in which requires ALP activity to generate Pi. ALP activity was neither affected by β‐GP nor by NaP concentrations. In addition, Zn status did not affect ALP activity in VSMCs. However, Pit1 as a sodium‐dependent phosphate transporter into the cells, was upregulated under zinc deficiency. Our findings illustrate that Zn deficiency‐induced calcification in VSMCs is not initiated by ALP action but in part by Pit1 upregulation. Supported by the fund of National Research Foundation of Korea (No. NRF‐2008–220‐F00013).
Dietary grape seed extract inhibits glucose intolerance and loss of metabolic flexibility induced by high‐fat diet
Authors: Griffin Laura E , Dorenkott Melanie R , Goodrich Katheryn M , Fundaro Gabrielle , McMillan Ryan , Hulver Matthew W , Ponder Monica A , Neilson Andrew P
Published: June 2021

Previous studies have shown that grape seed extract (GSE) inhibits diet‐induced obesity and biomarkers of type 2 diabetes. However, the exact mechanism of action is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine if reduced metabolic endotoxemia and improved metabolic flexibility are associated with reduced obesity and improved glucose tolerance due to GSE administration during high‐fat feeding. Male C57BL/6J mice (JAX, Bar Harbor, ME) were fed control (10% kcal fat) and high fat diets (45% kcal fat) containing GSE doses of 0, 10, 50, 100 mg/kg body weight (n=8/treatment) for 16 weeks. High fat feeding caused significant increases in weight gain, body fat %, and fat mass gain compared to control diet, and these increases were not significantly inhibited by GSE. High fat feeding significantly increased 12 h fasting blood glucose and 4 h oral glucose tolerance 160±11 mg/dL, 550160±11 35 mg*h/dL) compared to control (116±3.2 mg/dL, 391160±15 mg*h/dL), and GSE significantly inhibited these increases in (120±13 mg/dL, 439160±1128 mg*h/dL). GSE was not effective at improving insulin resistance induced by high‐fat feeding. Following sacrifice, skeletal muscle metabolism and metabolic flexibility were evaluated. No differences were observed in the ability of skeletal muscle to metabolize palmitic acid or glucose substrates. High fat feeding did significantly decrease substrate metabolic flexibility (as measured by both acid soluble metabolites and total metabolites), and GSE partially restored lost metabolic flexibility. These data suggest that altered metabolic flexibility (substrate switching) may be a mechanism by which GSE modulates glucose intolerance induced by high‐fat feeding.
Protective effect of D.mari and Carr. Extracts on oxidative stress in Hydrogen Peroxide‐treated Rat Chondrocytes
Authors: Nam Da‐eun , Kim Ok‐kyung , Ho Jin‐nyoung , Lee Jeong‐min
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of hot water extract from D.mari and Carr. extracts on cell cytotoxicity and effect on matrix regeneration in rat chondrocytes. The cytotoxic effect of D.mari and Carr. extracts was investigated by MTT assay to determine chondrocyte proliferation against oxidative damage induced by 300 μM H2O2. The treatment of D.mari and Carr. extracts recovered chondrocytes into a near normal level in a dose‐dependent manner from cytotoxicity by 50%. To examine the effect of plants extracts on matrix regeneration, we measured mRNA expression of proteoglycans and MMPs in chondrocytes. In proteoglycans related to matrix anabolism, type I, II collagen, and pro‐collagen X were strongly expressed with treatment of plants extracts, whereas only MMP‐3 in catabolic signs was reduced compared to untreated control. In conclusion, D.mari and Carr. extracts may be effective to protect chondrocytes proliferation from cell cytotoxicity, and matrix regeneration in chondrocytes could be enhanced by increased expression of proteoglycans such as type I, type II collagen, and pro‐collagen X, and reduced expression of MMP‐3. Thus, D.mari and Carr. extracts could be a possible applicant for ameliorating the degenerative arthritis.