bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effect of Isothiocyanate on Apoptosis Caused by iNOS Induction in Heart Left Ventricle infected by LP‐BM5 retrovirus a Murine AIDS Model
Authors: Yang Jiwon
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was identifying the inhibitory effects of isothiocyanates originated from crucified vegetables on apoptosis induced by iNOS in heart left ventricle in murine AIDS model. Mice were infected by LP‐BM5 retrovirus except uninfected control group and divided into 6 groups; 4 isothiocyanate(I3C, ICZ, BITC, PEITC and sulforaphane) treatment groups, non‐treatment of LP‐BM5 infected group and uninfected control. Survival test, iNOS mRNA induction, iNOS and NF‐kB detection by western blot, Bcl‐2 and Bax mRNA expression, caspase pathway and cell cycle arrest were measured in left ventricle. 70% of mice LP‐BM5 retrovirus infected were dead after 16 weeks of survival test and non‐infected control group was all survived. Sulforaphane among isothiocyanates tested in this study transcriptionally inhibited iNOS induction in left ventricle of heart tissue infected LP‐BM5 retrovirus. Sulforaphane inhibited iNOS induction by inactivation of cytoplasmic NF‐kB. Sulforaphane, PEITC, and BITC(but sulforaphane was most effective) inhibited the apoptosis in heart left ventricle by increasing Bcl‐2/Bax ratio and blocking caspase‐3 signaling pathway and cell cycle arrest. In conclusion, a certain isothiocyanates originated from crucified vegetables may have a potential to reduce AIDS‐related heart dysfunction.
Cadmium uptake is not affected by iron in an experimental model of the neonatal small intestinal epithelium
Authors: Öhrvik Helena , Tallkvist Jonas
Published: June 2021

The aim of the present study was to examine if iron (Fe) affects cadmium (Cd) uptake in partially differentiated Caco‐2 cells, as an in vitro model of the neonatal small intestinal epithelium. Caco‐2 cells were allowed to differentiate 7 or 21 days post‐confluency (DPC) in control (CM) or Fe supplemented (FeM) media. At both time points, 109Cd and 59Fe uptake was examined and quantitative gene expressions of DMT1 and DMT1‐IRE measured. DMT1 protein was also localized using an antibody recognizing both DMT1 and DMT1‐IRE. Our results showed that 109Cd uptake was not affected by FeM 7 DPC, whereas a reduction in 109Cd uptake was observed in FeM treated cells 21 DPC. 59Fe uptake showed the same characteristics. FeM neither affected DMT1 gene expression at 7 nor 21 DPC, whereas DMT1‐IRE mRNA was downregulated by FeM at both 7 and 21 DPC. In 7 DPC cells DMT1‐protein only exhibited intracellular localization. However, in 21 DPC cells DMT1 was also detected at the apical membrane. The results obtained in the present study supports the hypothesis that there are developmental differences in the handling of both Cd and Fe in neonates (7 DPC Caco‐2 cells) as compared to adults (21 DPC Caco‐2 cells), which may be related to the function and cellular localization of DMT1. Furthermore, the experimental model used herein constitutes a promising system for more detailed studies concerning these developmental differences.
The Ethanol Extract from Fermented Curcuma long L. Increases Expression of LPL on Lipolysis of Differentiated 3T3‐L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Yang Jiwon , Jang Ja‐Young , Jeon Hye‐Lin , Lee Jeongmin , Jun Woo‐Jin , Hwang Kwon‐Tack , Lee You‐Yeon
Published: June 2021

In the present study, we investigated the effect of Fermented Curcuma longa L. ethanol fraction(FCE) on underlying mechanisms of lipolysis in differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. The intracellular lipid droplets were stained with Oil red O dye and observed by microscope. Compared to the control, lipid accumulation was significantly decreased at concentration of 40~100 μg/ml with 24 h, 48 h and 72 h treatment of FCE. In consistence with the data, intracellular triglyceride content was reduced at concentration of 40~100 μg/ml. To determine the mechanism of reduction in triglyceride content, the level of glycerol release was measured. After 6 h incubation of 3T3‐L1 adipocytes with FCE significantly increased the cellular level of glycerol in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the level of free glycerol released into the cultured medium was dramatically increased with treatment of FCE. As subsequently measured by quantitative RT‐PCR, mRNA level of LPL was increased at concentration of 40~100 μg/ml. This study demonstrated that FCE partially stimulated lipolysis through induction of LPL gene expression, resulting in increased glycerol release.
Maternal α‐linolenic acid supplementation during gestation and lactation alters postnatal brain development in the offspring
Authors: LUPU DANIEL , RAGAB AMR S , CRACIUNESCU CORNELIU N , NICULESCU MIHAI D
Published: June 2021

Perinatal nutrition influences postnatal brain development, with long‐lasting effects on learning, memory and brain aging. ω‐3 fatty acids are essential for normal brain development. This study established that maternal perinatal α‐linolenic acid (ALA) availability modulates postnatal hippocampal development.

C57BL/6 female mice were fed either an ALA control (C, 2 groups) or an ALA deficit diet (D, 2 groups) for 30 days prior to, and during gestation. One day prior to delivery and during the lactation period (20 days), mice from one C group and one D group were switched on an ALA supplemented diet (CS and DS, respectively). The remaining two groups continued on their initial diet until postnatal day 20 (P20, CC and DD, respectively). At P20, mothers and pups were sacrificed. Within the dentate gyrus of male pups (DG), mitosis and early neuronal differentiation were increased in the CS group, while apoptosis was increased in the DD group. Fatty acid (FA) profiling in the maternal livers and serum, and in the pups’ brains revealed changes of several ω‐3, −6, −9, and saturated FAs.

Perinatal ALA availability contributes to the postnatal development of the DG by altering the proliferation and early neuronal differentiation of neural precursors. Changes within FAs are induced by maternal ALA availability.

Funded by a grant to MN from the UNC Center for Excellence in Children's Nutrition sponsored by Mead Johnson Nutrition.
Milking apparatus for rats to analyze changes of fee amino acids in milk throughout lactation
Authors: Gabriel Ana Maria San , Chotechuang Nattida , Hirota Mariko , Goda Yoshiki , Nakamura Eiji , Uneyama Hisayuki
Published: June 2021

To collect successive milk samples throughout lactation in Sprague‐Dawley rats and analyze changes in free amino acids in milk, we used an aspirator with a silicon suction cup attached to a peristaltic pump. The suction cap was adapted to the shape of the teat and the aspirator with the peristaltic pump mimicked the oral negative sucking pressure inside the mouth: 3 pulses per minute with maximum pressure of 20 kPas. Using this method, we obtained enough milk (0.5 to 2 mL) for amino acid analysis. Milk contains a pool of free amino acids that may have an important role during postnatal physiology. Although the pool of free amino acids in rat milk is not as high as in human milk, we examine whether the rat is a good model to study free amino acid regulation in milk. As others have previously reported, in average taurine was the most abundant free amino acid in rat milk followed by alanine and glutamic acid. However, while taurine and alanine remained constant throughout lactation, glutamate and aspartate sharply increased at the late stages (day 12 and day 18) as they do in human and pig milk. These results corroborate that the rat is a good laboratory model for the study of free amino acid changes in milk during lactation.
Significant increase in plasma osteocalcin in response to isoflurane induced anaesthesia in guinea pigs
Authors: Tabatabaei Negar , Rodd Celia , Kremer Richard , Weiler Hoper
Published: June 2021

The effect of the inhaled anaesthetic, isoflurane was studied on osteocalcin (OC) and total deoxypyridinoline (tDPD) in pigmented guinea pigs. Ten female guinea pigs were anaesthetized at five and nine weeks of age with isoflurane. The duration of anaesthesia was similar (20–25 min) in all guinea pigs across both age. Blood samples were collected at both time points, before and after the induction of the anaesthesia. Osteocalcin and tDPD were measured using ELISA (Quidel Corp.). Osteocalcin concentration increased due to isoflurane from 30.1±4.9 to 57.9±11.2 nmol/L (p<0.001) and from 29.1±7.5 to 62.9±15.9 nmol/L (p<0.001), at five and nine weeks of age, respectively. The effect of isoflurane on tDPD was inconsistent for the fifth and ninth week of age. Isoflurane increased tDPD (8.6±1.9 to 10.3±3.0 nmol/L) at five week of age while it decreased it (12.3±4.0 to 10.5±1.7 nmol/L) at nine week of age. The results demonstrate that administration of isoflurane changes both OC and tDPD. Therefore the interpretation of results obtained from animals anaesthetised by isoflurane on bone biomarkers should be made with caution since they may be highlighted or masked by the effect of the anaesthetic. Measurements prior to anaesthesia are recommended for better consistency and comparability in research. This study was funded by CIHR.
Effects of essential amino acid supplementation on markers for anabolic and catabolic response to resistance exercise in female subjects
Authors: Mascher Henrik , Apró William , Pontén Marjan , Ekblom Björn , Blomstrand Eva
Published: June 2021

The anabolic effect of essential amino acids (EAA) in connection with resistance exercise is well documented. Among the EAA, leucine has been suggested to play a key role, however, this has not previously been studied in female subjects. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of EAA with and without leucine (EAA‐leu) on the anabolic response through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. In addition, gene expression of two ubiquitin ligases (MAFbx and MuRF‐1) was measured as they are involved in muscle protein breakdown. Eight female subjects performed leg press exercise twice, separated by one month, during which they were randomly supplied one of the two supplements in flavored water. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis before exercise and 1 and 3h following exercise. Ingestion of EAA led to a 3‐fold larger increase (p<0.05) in p70S6k phosphorylation 1h after exercise, whereas phosphorylation of mTOR increased similarly in both conditions. The mRNA content of the two ubiquitin ligases was reduced 3h following exercise (MAFbx 35%, ns and MuRF‐1 40%, p<0.05) when a mixture of EAA was ingested, but no significant changes were seen when EAA‐leu was ingested. The results support the idea that leucine has a particularly important role in stimulating p70S6k, a key enzyme regulating protein translation, but may also reduce expression of genes involved in protein degradation.

The study was supported by funds from the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, Stockholm, Sweden.
Targeting Saliva for the Purpose of Modulating Feeding Behavior
Authors: Hurtado Daniela Maria , Acosta Andres , La Sala Michael , Zolotukhin Sergei
Published: June 2021

In this report, we show that murine and human saliva contains gut peptide YY (PYY3‐36), a hormone characterized by its physiological function of increasing satiation but not altering appetite. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether changes in salivary PYY3‐36 concentration induced either pharmacologically (acute augmentation) or genetically (gene therapy) would modulate food intake (FI) and body weight (BW) in C57Bl6 mice. Short‐term augmentation resulted in transient decrease in FI followed by compensatory feeding. On the contrary, sustained PYY transgene expression in the salivary gland resulted in a significant reduction of FI and 24% decrease of BW in diet‐induced obese mice over the eight weeks study. A conditioned taste aversion (CTA) test was used to determine the mechanism of FI reduction. Intra‐peritoneal administration of PYY3‐36, or LiCl produced CTA to the paired flavored chow, whereas no such response was documented in response to the augmentation of the salivary PYY3‐36. Furthermore, hypothalamic c‐fos activation had been investigated in response to the acute salivary PYY3‐36 augmentation. Interestingly, the treatment induced hypothalamic nuclei similar to the ones activated during re‐feeding. In conclusion, we describe the existence of an alternative satiation pathway mediated by salivary PYY3‐36 suggesting novel pharmacological and/or genetic approaches to treat obesity.
Supporting Breastfeeding: A Course for Hospital‐Based Nurses
Authors: Baker Susan S , Auld Garry , Weddig Jennifer
Published: June 2021

Objective

To determine if a one‐credit online course and practicum results in changes in the knowledge, behaviors, skills, and attitudes of hospital‐based nurses’ in relation to breastfeeding best practices.

Methods

The course and practicum were designed to increase nurses’ knowledge in the area of breastfeeding initiation. Data were collected from the treatment (n=50) and comparison (n=45) groups before and after the course and practicum to assess change in knowledge, behaviors, skills and attitudes.

Assessment tools included the Coventry University Breastfeeding Assessment, an online attitudes and skills pre/post test created and tested for reliability and validity; and a hospital chart review of a subset of nurses to assess changes in nursing skills and behaviors in breastfeeding initiation best practices.

Results

Data have been collected. Preliminary analyses indicate that the treatment group increased knowledge, improved attitudes, and improved breastfeeding initiation support behaviors while the comparison group did not have any improvement in knowledge, attitudes or behaviors.

Conclusions

The course is an effective way to educate healthcare professionals about evidence‐based breastfeeding initiation best practices.

This research was partially funded by Medela and the Colorado Breastfeeding Coalition
Effects of high carbohydrate and high protein diets on markers of metabolic syndrome (MS) in women participating in the Curves® fitness program
Authors: Byrd M , Culbertson J , Cannon C , Oliver J , Mardock M , Simbo S , Jung Y , Khanna D , Koozehchian M , Dalton R , Kim H , Lockard B , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

223 sedentary women (49±10 yrs, 163±7 cm; 95±17 kg; 45±4% body fat) with at least 3 NCEP‐ATP III criteria for MS were assigned to a normal diet (ND) group or a high carbohydrate (HC) or high protein (HP) diet group while participating in the Curves circuit‐training fitness program 3‐d/wk. Diets were 1,200 kcal/d for 1‐wk and 1,600 kcal/d for 9‐wks and contained 30% fat with either 55% CHO in the HC group and 50–63% P in the HP group. Data were analyzed by MANOVA with repeated measures and are presented as means ± SD changes from baseline. Subjects dieting lost more body mass (ND −0.5±2.2; HC −3.8±3.5; HP −4.3±3.7 %, p=0.001) and DXA fat mass (ND −3.2±4.1; HC −7.0±6.6; HP −6.9±6.3 %, p=0.001). TG decreased to a greater degree in the HP group (ND 6.0±38; HC −4.6±30; HP −12.8±29 %, p=0.005). Although significant time effects were observed, no differences were seen among groups in changes in waist circumference (ND −0.8±4.4; HC −2.1±9.1; HP −3.0±7.8 %, p=0.32), glucose (ND −2.6±15; HC −3.2±15; HP −2.9±14 %, p=0.98), total CHL (ND −4.4±19; HC −4.9±21; HP −5.8±17 %, p=0.91), HDL (ND −0.2±18; HC −3.4±18; HP −0.2±19 %, p=0.43), SBP (ND −2.0±14; HC −4.3±12; HP −4.3±13 %, p=0.57), or DBP (ND −2.3±13; HC −4.9±13; HP −3.3±14 %, p=0.52). Results indicate that exercise and dieting can positively affect clinical markers of MS in individuals with MS and that adherence to a HP diet may promote more favorable changes in TG levels.
Clinical profile of women with and without metabolic syndrome (MS)
Authors: Mardock M , Byrd M , Simbo S , Oliver J , Culbertson J , Cannon C , Jung Y , Khanna D , Koozehchian M , Dalton R , Kim H , Lockard B , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

720 sedentary women (47±12 yrs, 163±7 cm; 92±17 kg; 45±5% body fat) underwent comprehensive clinical assessments prior to participating in an exercise and diet intervention trial. Subjects were divided into those with less than (n=369) or more than 3 NCEP‐ATP III criteria for MS (n=336). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and are presented as means ± SD for the non‐MS and MS groups, respectively. Subjects who had MS were significantly older (45.3±12; 48.0±11 yrs); had significantly greater weight (88.5±17; 96.0±17 kg), waist circumference (99±16; 107±15 cm), hip circumference (119±13; 123±13 cm), resting heart rate (70±10; 73±11 bpm), SBP (121±12; 131±15 mmHg), DBP (78±8; 84±9 mmHg), bone mineral content (1,767±263, 1,820±251 g), DXA fat mass (37.1±10, 41.2±10 kg), DXA fat free mass (44.9±7, 48.2±7 kg), glucose (93±13, 111±33 mg/dl), TG (107±46, 175±84 mg/dl), total CHL (198±37, 208±45 mg/dl), LDL (116±30, 127±35 mg/dl), CHL:HDL ratio (3.5±0.8, 4.6±1.1), uric acid (4.6±1.1, 5.6±4.3 mg/dl), resting energy expenditure (1,574±271, 1,725±281 kcal/d), and peak SBP (159±23, 168±25 mmHg); and, significantly lower HDL (58±13, 48±12 mg/dl), peak aerobic capacity (6.1±1.3, 5.6±1.1 METs), and peak HR (163±18, 156±19 bpm). Results indicate that a high percentage of women interested in participating in a fitness and weight loss program have 3 or more criteria for MS (47%) and that women with MS have less favorable clinical profiles.
Effects of diet cycling on weight loss and resting energy expenditure in women participating in the Curves® fitness program
Authors: Culbertson J , Mardock M , Byrd M , Simbo S , Oliver J , Cannon C , Jung Y , Khanna D , Koozehchian M , Dalton R , Kim H , Lockard B , Rasmussen C , Kreider R
Published: June 2021

This study examined the efficacy of cycling diet phases in order to promote weight loss and maintenance of REE. 44 sedentary women (34±7 yrs, 89±19 kg; 43±5% body fat) were assigned to a high carbohydrate (HC, n=25) or high protein (HP, n=19) diet group. During the first 30‐days, subjects consumed 1,200 kcals/d for 1‐wk followed by ingesting 1,500 kcals/d for 3‐wks. Subjects then followed a 2,200 kcals/d maintenance diet for 4 wks and then repeated the 30‐day diet. Diets were 45% CHO, 30% PRO, and 25% F or 45% PRO, 30% CHO, and 25% F. Subjects participated in the Curves circuit training program 3‐d/wk and walked for 30‐min 3‐d/wk. Data were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA and are presented as means ± SD changes from baseline after 1, 2, & 3 months for the HC and HP groups, respectively. Significant time effects (p=0.001) were observed in weight loss and fat loss with no differences between types of diets in weight loss (HC −3.7±4.3, −5.4±5.5, −7.2±7.6; HP −5.8±4.9, −7.3±5.8, −8.9±6.6, lbs Q p=0.12) and fat loss (HC −3.1±3.5, −5.0±4.4, −5.4±4.9; HP −3.5±3.6, −5.6±4.6, −7.0±5.1 lbs, p=0.33). Mean REE values declined and rebounded over time (Q p=0.01) with no differences between groups (HC −0.92±2.5, −0.83±3.1, −0.33±3.0; HP −0.39±2.1, −0.76±2.4, 0.09±2.4 kcal/kg/d, p=0.78). Results suggest that following 30‐day cycles of dieting/maintenance can promote weight loss while maintaining REE.
Decursinol protects PC12 cells from β‐amyloid25‐35‐induced neurotoxicity via the activation of NF‐E2 related factor 2
Authors: Jung Sang‐won , Li Li , Li Wei , Park Sung‐ki , Kim Yong‐ho
Published: June 2021

One of the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease is the progressive accumulation of beta‐amyloid(Aβ) and Aβ insult to neuronal cells has been identified as one of the major causes of the disease. Decursinol, found in the roots of Angelica gigas Nakai, has been traditionally used to treat anemia and other various diseases. In this study, we investigated protective effects of decursinol on beta‐amyloid25–35(Aβ25–35)‐induced cell death in PC12 cells. Following exposure PC12 cells to 25μM Aβ25–35 for 24 hrs significant increased the lipid peroxidation(MDA), decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes(superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase) and the level of glutathione(GST) content which were accompanied by decreased cell viability, activity of GST and transactivation of activator NF‐E2‐related factor‐2(Nrf2) which mediates GST gene transcription. Besides, pretreatment of PC12 cells with decursinol for 3 hrs significantly reversed the effect of Aβ by decreasing the oxidative stress and increasing the activation of Nrf2 and GST activity level. These data indicate decursinol protected PC12 cells against Aβ‐induced neurotoxicity through the inhibition of oxidative damage through activation of Nrf2.

This research is supported by Biohealth Products Research Center(BPRC) of Inje University.
Maternal awareness of the WHO guidelines on infant feeding is related to HIV status, feeding practices, and stunting in Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Singh Akriti , Ramakrishna G. S. , Grizas Alexandra P. , Humphries Debbie
Published: June 2021

Family Health International's Balasahyoga program provides child growth monitoring and nutrition counseling to HIV/AIDS affected households in Andhra Pradesh.

Objectives

To assess awareness of the WHO guidelines on infant feeding among HIV+ and HIV− mothers, and to determine whether awareness of the guidelines is related to feeding practices and infant nutritional status.

Methods

A cross‐sectional assessment of Balasahyoga program participants (HIV+ N=44) and neighborhood controls (HIV− N=41), with infants 6–12 months of age, was conducted in Guntur and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh. The mothers were interviewed regarding feeding practices and anthropometric measurements were taken of mothers and infants.

Results

HIV+ mothers were 3.23 times more likely to be aware of the WHO guidelines than HIV− mothers (unadjusted, p=0.02). Infants of HIV+ mothers were 5.88 times more likely to be stunted than infants of HIV− mothers (unadjusted, p=0.01). Guideline‐aware HIV+ mothers were more likely to have ever breastfed (p=0.003) and less likely to have stunted infants (p=0.01) than guideline‐unaware HIV+ mothers.

Conclusion

Among the HIV+ mothers, awareness of the WHO guidelines is positively associated with breastfeeding and infant nutritional status. This initial finding emphasizes the importance of guideline implementation and evaluation of further educational interventions for HIV+ mothers.
Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) for children under the age of two years: two validation studies
Authors: Neufeld Lynette M , Mejía‐Rodríguez Fabiola , Ponce‐Castañeda MVeronica , Selhub Jacob , Paul Ligi , Cújar C , Hernández A , Orjuela Manuela
Published: June 2021

Aim

To validate a FFQ using questionnaires of complementary feeding practices (CFP), a 24‐hour recall (R24‐Hr), and blood nutrient levels in healthy children under the age of 2 yrs.

Methods

We interviewed 90 mother‐child pairs using CFP at ages 3,6,9 months and R24‐Hr given on 2 nonconsecutive days at 12,18 and 24 months of ages and a FFQ administered 4–6 years later, querying on diet in the 1st (YR1) and 2nd yr (YR2) of life. We queried 61 additional Mothers with FFQ and measured blood from their healthy child (age 1–5 years) for plasma B6, B12 and erythrocyte (RBC) folate levels with microbial & radio‐immuno assays. Data analysis used Spearman correlation and Wilcoxon tests.

Results

CFP correlated highly with FFQ for age of introduction of food and type of food consumed in YR1. In YR2 of life, energy intake in the R24‐Hr and FFQ were similar, and correlations after energy adjustment were significant for B12 (r=0.25, p<0.05) and borderline for B6 (r=0.18,p=0.9). After including supplement intake, correlations were: r=0.74 for folate, r=0.81 for B6 and r=0.29 for B12 (p<0.001 for each). RBC folate correlated with FFQ folate in YR2, (r=0.29, p<0.06). Correlations for Plasma and FFQ B6 were r=0.28(p<0.03) in YR1, r=0.31 (p<0.02) in YR2; for B12 r=0.51(p<0.001) in YR1 and r=0.38, (p=0.003) in YR2. This FFQ administered at ages 4–6 years provides a reasonable estimate of intake of key micronutrients during the first 2 yrs of life.
Effects of Oligonol Supplementation on the Appearance of Skin Photo‐aging, Wrinkles, Hyperpigmrntation and Lentigines
Authors: Fujii Hajime , MacKenzie Albert R. , Kitadate Kentaro
Published: June 2021

Research has documented the oligomerized flavonoid Oligonol's positive effects on oxidative stress prevention, signal transduction, blood circulation and metabolic syndrome. This may result in skin improvement due to changes in endothelial function and cytokine profiles. We conducted a three month clinical pilot study in the United States to evaluate the effects of the oral supplementation of Oligonol on the appearance of skin photo‐aging, wrinkling, hyperpigmentation and lentigines.

The outcome (n=eleven), confirmed known positive effects and the discovery of other possible effects: (A) Six subjects showed improvement in CRP levels, a marker for in vivo inflammation, IL‐6 and other cytokines. (B) Cross‐polarized DermLite® photographs showed a decrease in fine lines on eight subjects. Deeper wrinkles were lessened in two subjects. (C) There was a consistent overall lightening and brightening of complexion, less redness and blotchiness, fading of freckles and brown pigmented blotches. (D) Optical profilometry on skin molds supported subjective and observer noted improvement of fine lines in two cases. (E) Three subjects noted that their hair felt thicker, believed they had more hair and noted new hair growth along their hairline. (F) Positive results were noted on participants’ final questionnaire on overall health including mental functioning. Study research sponsor is Amino Up Chemical Co., Ltd.
EFFECT OF NUTRITION SUPPLEMENTS ON MALONDYALDEHYDE CONCENTRATIONS IN HEAVY SMOKERS
Authors: Bamonti Fabrizia , Novembrino Cristina , De Giuseppe Rachele , Vigna Luisella , Gregori Dario , Cighetti Giuliana
Published: June 2021

Long‐term cigarette smoking can cause lipid peroxidation generating molecules such as malondialdheyde (MDA). MDA exists both in free form (fMDA), chemically active and potential damaging agent, and bound (bMDA), excreted in urine, index of an old injury.

To evaluate effects of two different encapsulated formulas, consisting of primarily mixed juice powder concentrate, a randomized double blind placebo‐controlled study was performed on 101 heavy smokers (>20 cigarettes/d, duration >10y, median age 47; 41–57 y, 63 M) before and after 3‐m supplementation. Subjects were randomized into three groups, well matched for sex and age: A‐placebo; B‐fruit/vegetable; C‐fruit/vegetable/berry. In 75 (46 M) compliant (>95%) subjects plasma total MDA (tMDA= fMDA+bMDA) and fMDA concentrations were measured by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry with isotopic dilution and bMDA was calculated.

Median values were compared (t‐test for paired data); data are reported as mean delta values (± standard deviation).

Compared to placebo both active groups showed a significant decrease in fMDA levels accompanied by a slight increase in bMDA concentrations, probably due to fMDA conjugation.

Support: NSA, Collierville, TN

A (placebo)
B (fruit/veg)
C (fruit/veg/berry)

tMDA (μmol/L)
0.23 (±0.90)
0.04 (±0.85)
0.26 (±0.75)

fMDA (μmol/L)
0.26 (±0.45)
−0.14 (±0.45)*
−0.11 (±0.36)*

bMDA (μmol/L)
−0.03 (±0.9)
0.18 (±0.9)
0.37 (±0.89)

p<0.01 vs placebo
Gum Chewing Improves Adolescents’ Math Performance in an SAT Preparatory Course
Authors: Johnston Craig A , Palcic Jennette L. , Tyler Chermaine , Foreyt John P.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the current study was to determine the effect of gum chewing on students’ performance in a preparatory course for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). A total of 182 adolescents enrolled in an SAT preparatory class were randomized into one of two treatments: 1) gum chewing condition (GCC) that provided Wrigley's sugar‐free gum to chew during the SAT prep class, SAT prep homework, and testing situations or 2) a control condition with no gum (NGC). Students were administered a practice test at baseline during which all participants did not chew gum and again at two months. Students randomized to the GCC chewed gum during the 2 month practice test, while students in the NGC did not chew gum. A total of 116 students completed both practice tests. All students showed improved scores at 2 months in math, reading, writing, and total score (F=21.5, p<.001; F= 20.7 p<.001; F=63.6 p<.001; F= 51.9, p<.001). Differences in improvement between the NGC and the GCC were examined. Students in the GCC demonstrated a greater improvement in their math scores compared the NGC (F=6.52, p<.0125). However, there were no differences in improvement between the GCC and NGC for the reading, writing, and total scores. These results suggest that chewing gum may be a cost‐effective and easily implemented method to improve math scores in testing situations similar to the SAT. Supported by a grant from The Wrigley Science Institute.
Tools for early detection of risk for developing insulin resistance
Authors: Ursell Luke J. , Parker Brooks A. , Lawrence Robert M. , Borum Peggy R.
Published: June 2021

Insulin resistance (IR) is becoming of increasing concern in pediatric populations, and HIV positive pediatric patients may be at an increased risk for developing IR. We developed novel, multifactorial tools, the GlucIndex (GI), LipidIndex (LI), and Cumulative Indices Assessment (CIA), which incorporate the fasting glucose to insulin ratio (FGIR), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), computer version of the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA2‐IR), insulin sensitivity index (ISI), and triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein ratio (TG/HDL). High risk and low risk for developing IR according to each index is indicated by a + or −, respectively. These novel tools were used to assess 46 HIV positive pediatric patients’ risk for developing IR at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL. The table indicates risk based on each index. Notably, no patient had impaired fasting glucose values during the study. These tools may be beneficial for detecting risk for developing IR before glucose values become impaired.

Index
Percent of Patients

GI−,LI− (no detectable risk)
61%

GI+,LI− (risk for glucose intolerance)
17%

GI−,LI+ (risk for dyslipidemia)
13%

GI+,LI+ (risk for glucose intolerance and dyslipidemia)
9%
Proximity to Food Stores May Not Predict Use
Authors: Hurvitz Philip M , Moudon Anne V , Aggarwal Anju , Drewnowski Adam
Published: June 2021

Proximity to supermarkets at the census tract level has been linked to improved diet quality and better health.

The Seattle Obesity Study examined the key distinction between the nearest supermarkets and those reported as primary food stores using a stratified random sample of 2001 households in King County, WA. The survey asked about locations of two primary stores, food expenditures, shopping habits, demographics, and health outcomes. The addresses of all supermarkets in King County as well as the respondents’ home and work addresses were geocoded GIS network analysis generated closest paths from respondents’ home and work locations to their self reported food stores, as well as to their nearest supermarket.

Results showed that only 15% of respondents shopped for food within their home census tract. Although the closest supermarket was only 2.0 km from home, the mean distance to the primary supermarket was 4.8 km. Nonwhite respondents lived the same distance to the closest supermarket than Whites, but traveled further to their primary store. College graduates lived closer to supermarkets and shopped closer to home than non‐graduates. No significant effects were found by income.

These findings suggest that the proximity to supermarkets may not predict exposure. Studies of the impact of the built environment on health should include measures of individual food shopping behavior.

Supported by NIH Grant 5R01DK076608.
Evaluation of Clinical Efficacy of Rubus Coreanus Extract for Erectile Dysfunction: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pilot study
Authors: Oh Mi‐Ra , Kim Sun‐Young , Back Hyang‐Im , Kim Min‐Gul , Jeon Ji‐Young , Chae Soo‐Wan , Park Jong Kwan
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to test the effect of Rubus Coreanus extract on erectile dysfunction. This was a 12 week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pilot study. 20 subjects with ED (IIEF≤ 21) were erectile failure in sexual intercourse above four for screening period. A total of 20 subjects were randomly divided to a Rubus Coreanus extract group (n=10, 200ml/day) or placebo group (n=10, 200ml/day). Efficacy assessments included the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and safety. IIEF questionnaire was conducted 4 times (in study weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4). Finally 19 subjects were finished in this study. Rubus Coreanus extract group had significantly increased score from baseline to the end of treatment on three domain of the IIEF (erectile function p=0.04, orgasm function p=0.02, total IIEF score p=0.038). There was no change of IIEF score (intercourse satisfaction p=0.093, sexual desire p=0.069, overall satisfaction p=0.503) compared with before and after treatment. Also there was no significant difference between Rubus Coreanus extract and placebo group. These results suggested that Rubus Coreanus extract had in favorable effect on erectile dysfunction.
Distribution and analysis of stem and progenitor cell populations in large mammal and human kidneys
Authors: Basu Joydeep , Genheimer Christopher , O'Reilly Dawn Delo , Sangha Namrata , Guthrie Kelly , Bertram Timothy A , Ludlow John W , Jain Deepak
Published: June 2021

Zonal identification of stem cell‐associated marker distribution within adult kidneys may facilitate development of assays to monitor efficacy of regenerative medicine approaches to treating renal disease. In this study, we used quantitative RT‐PCR to analyze stem and progenitor cell marker distribution (e.g., CD117, CD146, CD133, CD271, CD34, Oct‐4A, and SOX2) within discrete compartments of canine kidneys and found that adipose tissue associated with the major calyx and renal pedicle contains potential stem and progenitor cell populations. Primary canine renal cultures also contained cells with multi‐lineage differentiation potential, as determined by growth‐factor mediated expression of epithelial, endothelial, smooth muscle, adipocytic, and osteogenic markers. Extending this analysis to primary human renal cells isolated from cadaveric donors with and without kidney disease suggested that human kidneys may also contain cells capable of multi‐lineage differentiation. Multiple stem and progenitor markers, including CD117, CD146, CD133, and CD271, were up‐regulated in cells isolated from diseased human tissue compared to healthy, consistent with the hypothesis that stem and progenitor populations are activated and/or mobilized in response to renal disease. Taken together, these data may serve as a foundation for the development of molecular assays to monitor the regenerative response.
Farmers’ Market Use among Families in North Carolina
Authors: Racine Elizabeth , Laditka Sarah B
Published: June 2021

Background

The number of farmers’ markets (FM) has more than tripled in the last 15 years. Little is known about factors that influence FM use.

Objective

To examine the relationship between FM use, dietary behavior, participation in supplemental nutrition programs, and demographic characteristics.

Design

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis using the 2008 North Carolina Child Health Assessment and Monitoring Program (CHAMPS) data (n= 2,932). We examined the relationship between use of FM 12+ times in the past year by WIC participation, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation, Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) participation, fruit consumption, vegetable consumption, and race/ethnicity.

Results

Families with children who eat 3+ servings of vegetables a day were more likely to use FM (p<.0001). FM use among families participating in WIC or SNAP was not significantly different from FM use among those who did not participate. Children in families enrolled in WIC and living in counties that offer the FMNP were more likely to eat 3+ servings of fruit a day compared with those not enrolled in WIC and not in a county participating in FMNP (34.3% vs. 18.2%; p=.007).

Conclusions

FM use and availability of FM subsidies in the form of FMNP vouchers may positively impact fruit and vegetable consumption among children.

This analysis was not funded.
Nutrient profiling as a tool to improve diet quality: Impact on energy and nutrient intakes and diet quality using an NHANES‐based segmentation model
Authors: Kovacs Eva M.R. , Barraj Leila M. , Murphy Mary , Bi Xiaoyu , Balentine Douglas A.
Published: June 2021

Nutrient profiling is a scientific approach aimed at helping to identify better food choices. A recent example is the Smart Choices Program (SCP). SCP was developed by a coalition of academics, industry partners and NGO's facilitated by the Keystone Group. This study evaluated nutrient intakes and diet quality in the U.S. based on the fraction of the diet obtained from foods meeting SCP category‐specific criteria. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) provided a measure of diet quality. Using dietary recall data in NHANES 2005–06 (2+ y), all SCP eligible foods were classified as SCP‐non compliant or SCP‐compliant. Low and High consumers of SCP foods were identified based on the lower and upper quartile distributions of g of SCP‐compliant foods per total 1000 kcal. The mean % of energy from SCP‐compliant foods by Low and High SCP consumers was 8 and 25%, respectively. Mean energy intake was lower in the High vs. Low SCP group (1720 vs. 2355 kcal). Mean intakes of nutrients to limit (total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, added sugar, sodium) were lower in the High SCP group, while the reverse was true for nutrients to encourage (fiber, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, E & C) other than calcium. The total HEI score was 66.0 in the High SCP group and 49.8 in the Low SCP group. These findings support the hypothesis that nutrient profiling can be an effective tool for helping to improve diet quality.

Research supported by Unilever.
Low micronutrient intake is associated with low socioeconomic status and low diet cost
Authors: Monsivais Pablo , Aggarwal Anju , Drewnowski Adam
Published: June 2021

Low socioeconomic status (SES) is typically associated with poor dietary patterns. This bias might be due to the fact that lowest‐cost foods often contain more energy than nutrients. The Seattle Obesity Study examined the association between indicators of SES and micronutrient intakes in a stratified random sample of over 1,200 adults in King county, WA between August 2008 and March 2009. Dietary intakes were assessed using a food frequency‐based questionnaire that yielded estimated daily diet costs in addition to standard estimates of nutrient and energy intakes. Participant characteristics were reported in a telephone survey. Multiple linear regression models were used to measure the association of income and education with the intake of nine micronutrients. After controlling for covariates, lower income was associated with significantly lower intakes of vitamins B‐2, B‐12, C, E, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Similarly, least‐educated respondents had significantly lower intakes of vitamins A, B‐12, C, E, magnesium, potassium and folate. Moreover, lowest‐cost diets in this sample were found to contain significantly lower amounts of all nine nutrients than more costly diets. These findings support the hypothesis that lower monetary cost of less nutritious diets might at least partly explain the observed links between low SES and the diet quality of individuals. Supported by NIH grant R01DK076608
Induction of A:T mutations is dependent on cellular environment but independent of target gene location
Authors: Wang Ji‐Yang , Kano Chie
Published: June 2021

The somatic hypermutation of the immunoglobulin (Ig) genes is initiated by the activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID), which catalyzes the deamination of cytosine to uracil and generates a U:G DNA lesion. Consistent with its substrate specificity, ectopic expression of AID in fibroblasts induces predominantly C:G mutations in a GFP reporter gene. In contrast to fibroblasts, AID induces a high proportion of A:T mutations in Ig genes in the germinal center (GC) B cells. To investigate whether the ability to generate A:T mutations is dependent on cellular environment or target gene, we introduced a GFP gene into a GC B‐like cell line Ramos and compared the AID‐induced mutations in the endogenous Ig VH and the transgenic GFP genes. Remarkably, a high proportion of A:T mutations was induced in both genes. Moreover, using a lacZ‐transgenic system to detect endogenous genome mutations, we found that GC B cells exhibited a much higher proportion of A:T mutations as compared with naïve B, non‐GC B and cells of other tissues. These results demonstrate that the ability to generate A:T mutations is dependent on the GC B cell environment but independent of the target gene location.
Effects of supplemental animal source foods on diet and blood markers of micronutrient status among reproductive‐age women in rural Vietnam
Authors: Hall Andrew , Ngu Tu , Nga Hoang Thu , Quyen Phi Ngoc , Anh Pham Thi Hong , Dirren Henri , King Janet
Published: June 2021

Our objective was to determine the effects of daily mid‐morning supplemental animal source foods (ASF) on usual diets and blood markers of iron, zinc, vitamin A and B12 status among reproductive age women in rural Vietnam. 117 non‐pregnant women 18 to 30 years old consented to participate, and were randomized to receive either daily ASF (median 144 kcal, 9 mg iron, 3.3 mg zinc, 1000 μg RAE vitamin A, 7 μg vitamin B12 and 20 g protein/supplement) or a control snack composed primarily of tofu (median 149 kcal, 0.9 mg iron, 0.8 mg zinc, 0 μg RAE vitamin A, 0 μg vitamin B12 and 8 g protein/supplement) 5 days/wk for 6 months. Usual diets were determined by random, non‐consecutive repeated 24‐hr recalls at baseline, 3, and 6 months (10 recalls per participant). No displacing effect on usual diet was observed. Based on diet, 24% were at risk for deficiency of iron, 32% for vitamin A, 54% for zinc, and 88% for B12. Initially, anemia was found in 15% of the women and 81% had low levels of plasma zinc. None of these women had low blood levels of vitamin A of B12. After 6 months of ASF supplementation, hemoglobin increased significantly (p < 0.01), but no significant changes were observed in plasma zinc, vitamin A or serum B12.
Exploring the in vivo and in vitro metabolism of glucosinolates by human gut microbiota
Authors: Li Fei , Hullar Meredith AJ , Beresford Shirley AA , Lampe Johanna W
Published: June 2021

Glucosinolates (GS), phytochemicals found in cruciferous vegetables (CRV) that may have anti‐carcinogenic effects, are metabolized to bioactive isothiocyanates (ITC) by certain bacteria in the human gut. We hypothesized that individual differences in gut microbiota contribute to the observed substantial individual variation in urinary ITC excretion after CRV feeding in previous studies. We recruited 23 individuals and fed them a standardized meal containing 200 g cooked broccoli. 24‐h urinary ITC excretion was measured after the meal. Study participants with the highest (n=5) and the lowest (n=5) ITC excretion provided fecal samples for in vitro cultivation with 50 μM glucoraphanin, a GS. Microbial fingerprints of fecal and in vitro culture microbiota were analyzed by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism of the eubacterial 16S rRNA gene. There was no significant overall difference in fecal or in vitro culture microbiota between the high and low ITC excreters. However, when grown in vitro, fecal bacteria from the high ITC excreters degraded more GS than those from the low excreters (P=0.05). In conclusion, in vitro fecal bacterial GS degradation was associated with in vivo bacterial GS metabolism capacity but no direct link to specific bacterial species could be established, possibly due to the complexity and functional redundancy of the gut microbiota. Supported by NCI grant R01 CA070913.
Regulation of hepatic branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase kinase in a rat model for type 2 diabetes mellitus at different stages of the disease
Authors: Doisaki Masao , Katano Yoshiaki , Ishigami Masatoshi , Hayashi Kazuhiko , Goto Hidemi , Fujita Yuko , Kadota Yoshihiro , Kitaura Yasuyuki , Bajotto Gustavo , Kazama Shunsuke , Tamura Tomohiro , Tamura Noriko , Feng Guo‐Gang , Ishikawa Naohisa , Shimomura Yoshiharu
Published: June 2021

Branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) kinase (BDK) is responsible for the regulation of BCKDH complex, which is the rate‐limiting enzyme in the catabolism of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs). In the present study, we investigated the expression and activity of hepatic BDK in spontaneous type 2 diabetes using hyperinsulinemic Zucker diabetic fatty rats aged 9 weeks and hyperglycemic, but not hyperinsulinemic rats aged 18 weeks. The abundance of hepatic BDK mRNA and total BDK protein did not correlate with changes in serum insulin concentrations. On the other hand, the amount of BDK bound to the complex and its kinase activity were correlated with alterations in serum insulin levels, suggesting that hyperinsulinemia upregulates hepatic BDK. The activity of BDK inversely corresponded with the BCKDH complex activity, which was suppressed in hyperinsulinemic rats. These results suggest that insulin regulates BCAA catabolism in type 2 diabetic rats by modulating the hepatic BDK activity
Effects of trans‐resveratrol supplementation on mRNA expression of metabolically relevant proteins in response to an oral glucose tolerance test in obese females
Authors: Hudson Geoffrey M , Shelmadine Brian D , Cooke Matthew B , Genovese Joseph , Greenwood Mike , Willoughby Darryn S
Published: June 2021

It has been shown that resveratrol (RV) supplementation can increase glucose uptake. The current study investigated the effects of trans‐RV on glucose and insulin levels and mRNA expression of metabolically active genes in response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Sixteen women (27.56±5.99y; 37.94±8.66kg/m2; 45.86±5.33% body fat) were randomized to either a RV (n=8) or cellulose placebo (PL, n=8) group and instructed to ingest 250mg of their respective supplements twice daily for 5 days. On day 6, participants ingested 500mg prior to donating a baseline blood and muscle samples. A 75g glucose solution was then ingested and subsequent blood samples were taken at 30mins, 1hr, and 2hrs, while an additional muscle sample was obtained at 1 hr. Statistical analysis used a repeated measures ANOVA. Serum glucose significantly increased by 48.19±7.91mg/dl after 30mins (p < 0.001) and by 29.94±25.09mg/dl after 1 hr (p = 0.007), with no differences between groups. There was also a significant increase by 0.052±0.012 AU in PPARα expression at 1hr (p=0.02), with no differences between groups. A significant interaction (p=0.014) was observed for PPARγ expression where the PL group decreased by 0.041±0.037 AU and the RV group increased by 0.051±0.031 AU after 1hr. No other significant changes were observed. In summary, RV supplementation enhanced PPARγ gene expression in response to an OGTT.