bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Angiotensin Receptor Trafficking by an Upstream Short Open Reading Frame in the mRNA 5′ Leader Sequence
Authors: Kadam Parnika , Mueller Susette , Ji Hong , Sandberg Kathryn
Published: November 2023

Background

A seven amino acid peptide (PEP7) encoded within a short open reading frame (sORF) in exon 2 of the 5′ leader sequence (5′LS) of the angiotensin type 1a receptor (AT1aR) mRNA is highly conserved in rats, mice and humans.

Aim

Our goal is to investigate the mechanism by which PEP7 modulates AT1aR signaling cascade.

Method

The start codon of the sORF was mutated at adenine ‐108 (A−108 to T−108) to create E1,2(−108T),3‐AT1aR and cloned into the pEGFP‐N2 plasmid (construct). Human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells were transfected with intact or the disrupted sORF construct. Live cell imaging in the presence of a LysoTracker dye (staining lysosomes), immunostaining and western blot analysis were performed after treatment with Ang II (100 nM).

Results

While the rate of vesicle formation after Ang II treatment was decreased by disrupting the PEP7 sORF [t1/2(s): E1,2,3‐AT1aR, 203s vs E1,2(−108T),3‐AT1aR, 328s; p<0.05; n=15], disruption of the PEP7 sORF did not alter the transport of AT1aR‐GFP to lysosomes within the first 25 minutes of Ang II stimulation. Immunostaining suggested that disruption of PEP7 sORF alters Ang II‐induced colocalization of AT1aR‐GFP with β‐arrestin and pERK1/2 with β‐arrestin. Western blot analysis showed that disruption of PEP7 sORF decreased the level of ERK activation in transfected HEK 293 cells. [pERK1/2 /total ERK1/2: E1,2,3‐AT1aR, 1.2 ± 0.1 vs E1,2(−108T),3‐AT1aR, 0.79 ± 0.0002, p<0.05; n=2]

Conclusion

PEP7 sORF regulates Ang‐II induced AT1aR internalization and signal transduction through the β‐arrestin‐pERK1/2 pathway by increasing ERK1/2 activation.

Support or Funding Information

NIH R01‐HL121456 to KS.
Toward Facile Automated Glycan Synthesis: Current Progress and Remaining Challenges
Authors: Pohl Nicola Lucia
Published: November 2023

Structure/function studies related to the biochemistry and molecular biology of carbohydrates has lagged those of proteins and nucleic acids in part due to the challenges in obtaining structurally well‐defined glycans. Fortunately, a 2012 report by the National Academy of Sciences1 outlining the specific problems has spurred investment by the U.S. National Institutes of Health through its Common Fund2 in developing the chemical methods and overcoming the building block limitations to make automated oligosaccharide synthesis widely available. Interestingly, individual investigators funded through this synthesis program are expected to coordinate and synergize efforts rather than work in isolation and to develop standardized, vetted protocols. This talk will discuss progress to date3 and the challenges still ahead in making a wide variety of discrete oligosaccharide structures readily available through automated methods.

Support or Funding Information

National Institutes of Health (5U01GM116248‐02)
The expanding glycouniverse: diverse glycan modifications in lower eukaryotes
Authors: Wilson Iain B. H. , Yan Shi , Hykollari Alba , Eckmair Barbara , Vanbeselaere Jorick , Paschinger Katharina
Published: November 2023

The classical view has been that N‐linked oligosaccharides in ‘lower’ eukaryotes (protists, fungi, plants and invertebrates) are simple. However, recent data shows that, other than plants, the diversity of N‐glycan modifications in non‐vertebrate species is extremely high. From our own studies on Dictyostelium, Trichomonas, Penicillium, Acanthamoeba, mosquitoes and other insects, Caenorhabditis and other nematodes, molluscs and planaria, a wide range of new glycan modifications have been demonstrated using an off‐line HPLC/MALDI‐TOF‐MS workflow. Particularly underrepresented in older studies are the ‘charged’ modifications of N‐glycans from lower eukaryotes, such as glucuronic acid, sulphate, phosphoethanolamine, aminoethylphosphonate and phosphorylcholine. In addition, unusual galactosylation, fucosylation and mannosylation events (on the core and bisecting positions) increase the range of possibilities. Thus the concept of ‘simple’ organisms possessing only ‘simple’ glycans is no longer a true reflection of the actual glycosylation capacity of invertebrates. The coming years are certain to result in further glycomic surprises, certainly reflecting the presence of an unexplored treasure chest of Golgi enzymes in the analysed species.

Support or Funding Information

This work has been funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF; grants P26662, P25058 and P23922 to A.H., K.P and I.B.H.W.) and by the European Union (GlycoPar Initial Training Network; PITN‐GA‐2013‐608295).
The Human Lectin Galectin‐3 Recognizes Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycans (CSPGs) and Sulfated Glycosaminoglycans
Authors: Dam Tarun , Talaga Melanie , Fan Ni , Fueri Ashli , Brown Robert , Bandyopadhyay Purnima
Published: November 2023

Glycan‐binding proteins are classified in two major but distinct groups: lectins and glycosaminoglycan (GAG)‐binding proteins (GAGBPs). The multifunctional human lectin galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) is a member of the first group. GAGBPs, on the other hand, include a variety of non‐lectin proteins such as growth factors, cytokines, morphogens and ECM (extracellular matrix) proteins. The general structures of the binding sites of lectins, their preferred glycan structures and their mode of action are fundamentally different from those of GAGBPs. A member of one group rarely possesses the characteristics of both groups. Our data, however, show that Gal‐3 is a notable exception to that rule. In the present study, we report several significant findings. First, calorimetric and spectroscopic data show for the first time that Gal‐3 behaves like a GAGBP. The lectin interacts with unmodified sulfated GAGs (heparin and chondroitin sulfates) and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) at physiological pH and NaCl concentration. Second, the binding of sulfated GAGs and CSPGs to Gal‐3 is not a result of non‐specific interactions, rather sulfated GAGs and CSPGs specifically bind to Gal‐3, apparently, via the LacNAc/lactose binding site of Gal‐3. Finally, while heparin and chondroitin sulfate B (dermatan sulfate) are found to be monovalent ligands of Gal‐3, chondroitin sulfate A (CSA), chondroitin sulfate C (CSC) and bovine CSPG engage in multivalent binding with Gal‐3. Such multivalent binding leads to the formation of noncovalent cross‐linked complexes, which is reversible by lactose and different sulfated GAGs. Hill plot analysis of calorimetric data show that the binding of CSA, CSC and bovine CSPG to Gal‐3 is associated with progressive negative cooperativity effects. The present study provides a foundation for discovering new functions of GAGs and CSPGs mediated by Gal‐3 [1].

Support or Funding Information

National Science FoundationMichigan Technological University
Using Recombined RNA Aptamers to Specifically Change O‐GlcNAcylation on a Protein
Authors: Zhu Yi
Published: November 2023

O‐linked β‐D‐N‐acetylglucosamine (O‐GlcNAc) is an abundant post‐translational modification (PTM) that has been reported on more than 4,000 intracellular proteins. In contrast, there are only two enzymes known to carry out its addition and removal: O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O‐GlcNAcase (OGA). And it remains poorly understood how these enzymes recognize each of their substrates. As a result, researchers are limited in experimental approaches that specifically change O‐GlcNAc levels on a protein, and this is greatly hindering us from dissecting the regulatory roles of O‐GlcNAc. Once called “nucleic acid antibodies”, aptamers are usually short single‐stranded DNA or RNA, which bind their targets with high affinities and specificities. In this research, we developed a method that is capable of changing O‐GlcNAcylation on a specific protein, using recombined RNA aptamers. We performed Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX), an iterative in vitro selection with a random RNA library, and identified an RNA sequence that recognizes the nucleocytoplasmic isoform of OGT (ncOGT) with high affinity (Kd~50nM). This aptamer binds to the tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domain of ncOGT and does not impair its enzymatic activity. We recombined this aptamer with another aptamer that recognizes GFP, and overexpressed the recombined aptamer together with a GFP‐tagged protein in HEK293T cells. Data from Immunoprecipitation (IP) and Western Blot showed that O‐GlcNAcylation on the GFP‐tagged protein was significantly increased in the presence of this recombined aptamer. The interaction between OGT and the GFP‐tagged protein was promoted as well, based on Co‐Immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) results. Using this method, we were able to specifically increase O‐GlcNAcylation on several GFP‐tagged proteins, including transcription factors and kinases. Taken together, these results suggest recombined RNA aptamers as promising tools to specifically change O‐GlcNAcylation on individual proteins, which will further provide researchers a method to study the regulatory function of O‐GlcNAc with more details.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by NIH P01HL107153, R01DK61671 and R01GM116891. Dr. Hart receives a share of royalty received by the university on sales of the CTD 110.6 antibody, which are managed by JHU.
Prevalence of anemia is significantly higher in six month old infants than in their mothers in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreeziabher Tafere , Stoecker Barbara J
Published: November 2023

Anemia, defined as hemoglobin (Hgb) < 12 g/dL for non‐pregnant women and Hgb < 11 g/dL for infants is one of the major nutritional problems in the world. Although there are multiple causes of anemia, in young children iron deficiency anemia is a major concern. There are currently very limited data in Ethiopia on the prevalence of anemia in infants at six months of age. In this study we assessed iron deficiency, iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and anemia in 150 mothers and anemia in their six month old infants. In our sample, 19.1% of the mothers and 41.7% of the infants were anemic. The mean (SD) Hgb in mothers was 13.5 (1.2) g/dL and in infants was 11.6 (1.2) g/dL. Mothers had significantly higher Hgb than their infants (p = 0.001) and more infants were anemic (p < 0.001); maternal Hgb correlated with infant Hgb (r = 0.16, p < 0.047). Maternal Hgb also was correlated with TfR (r = −0.49, p = 0.001), plasma iron (r = 0.26, p = 0.001), alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) (r = −0.243, p = 0.003), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (r = −0.178, p = 0.028) but not with ferritin. Of the women 14.5% were iron deficient (ferritin < 15 mg/L) and 4.7% had IDA (anemia with ferritin < 15 mg/L). However measurement of TfR indicated that 10% of women had low functional iron status (TfR > 8.3 μg/mL). In conclusion, maternal anemia would be defined as a mild and infant anemia as a severe public health problem. These results emphasize the need for timely introduction of complementary foods containing bioavailable iron to supplement the limited iron in breast milk.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by Nestlé Foundation and Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station.
Screening of Dried Matrix Spot Collection Devices to be Used for Nutritional Biomarker Analysis
Authors: Arredondo Francisco X , Craft Neal E
Published: November 2023

Dry Matrix Spots (DMS) are dried spots of body fluids, including blood, serum, urine, saliva and breast milk. DMS have been employed as a convenient sample matrix to collect in non‐clinical and remote settings. DMS can be collected by staff with minimal training, and for a limited time, they can be stored and transported without a cold‐chain. Historically, nutritional biomarkers (NB) were collected using S&S (now Whatman) 903 cards in the form of dried blood spots (DBS). This form of blood collection provided multiple benefits, but limitations existed related to volume estimates, chromatographic affects, and storage stability. Using this type of sample collection, the separation of erythrocytes (RBCs) from serum does not occur. Aging of the blood, exposure to elevated humidity and temperature can alter the concentrations of most analytes.

Objective

To evaluate blood collection devices to identify ones best suited to obtain DMS for measurement of NBs.

Methods

We obtained samples of 10 commercial blood collection devices. Criteria were established to identify successful collection devices. Ideally, devices should separate RBCs from serum without gradient or chromatographic effects, provide adequate and quantifiable volume, reproducibility, moderate stability with minimal refrigeration, and simple collection. NBs were chosen from those identified by BOND working groups1. The analytical methods to evaluate the NBs must be sensitive (≥ppb), affordable, reproducible (±15%), accurate (±15%) and rugged.

Results

Essentially all commercial products did not meet the criteria. Many do not separate RBCs from serum, do exhibit chromatographic effects, or provide too little serum for analytical testing. We have identified a device (Vive‐Bio, Atlanta, GA) that allows the separation of RBCs in a vertical fashion with the concurrent separation and collection of a hemoglobin‐free serum sample into a highly absorbent collection pad. The transfer efficiency is high providing adequate volume to perform analytical tests (~60%, ~10uL). We have conducted preliminary short‐term stability studies on several NBs.

Conclusions

A blood collection device has been identified which achieves the verticle separation of RBCs from serum. Advantages of this device over traditional DBS include: availability of RBCs for quantification of RBC folate, better serum volume estimation, direct serum measures of zinc, ferritin, RBP, AGP, CRP, thyroglobulin, homocysteine, methylmalonic acid, vitamins B12 and D.

Support or Funding Information

Funding provided by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Blood Lead Toxicity is not Associated with Anemia and Iron Deficiency in Children from Bhaktapur, Nepal
Authors: Chandyo Ram K , Shrestha Binob , Zhao Beibo , Ulak Manjeswori , Shrestha Prakash S , Shrestha Rita , Bodhidatta Ladaporn , Mason Carl , Shrestha Laxman , Strand Tor , Shrestha Sanjaya
Published: November 2023

Background

Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, is still common among children from resource poor settings. Besides inadequate intake of iron rich foods, lead toxicity may be an important underlying cause for anemia and iron deficiency. However, there are lack of data on lead toxicity and its relation with anemia and iron deficiency.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 225 healthy children at 15 months of age who were participating in a cohort study on malnutrition and interaction with enteric infection (MAL‐ED). Blood was analyzed for leads hemoglobin, plasma ferritin, and transferrin receptor concentrations.

Results

The prevalence of anemia (Hb <11 g/dl) was 51% and 54% of children were iron deficient as indicated by low ferritin and/or high transferrin receptor concentrations. The mean (SD) blood lead concentration was 12.8 μg/dl (7.6) and 60% of children were having high lead concentrations (>10 μg/dl). Sixty‐three percent of the anemic children had high blood lead concentrations compared with 56% among the non‐anemic children (p=0.2). Similarly, high lead concentration was found among 61% children with iron deficiency and in 54% of the non‐deficient (p=0.2).

Conclusion

Anemia, iron deficiency and high blood lead concentration was common among healthy infants in Bhaktapur. However, higher lead concentration was not associated with anemia and iron deficiency.

Support or Funding Information

The Etiology, Risk Factors and Interactions of Enteric Infections and Malnutrition and the Consequences for Child Health and Development Project (MAL‐ED) is carried out as a collaborative project supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Foundations for the NIH and the National Institute of Health/ Fogarty International Center. The authors thank the staff and participants of the MAL‐ED Network Project for their important contributions.
Micronutrient Deficiencies in Ghanaian Women before Pregnancy
Authors: Gernand Alison D , Aguree Sixtus , Pobee Ruth , Murray‐Kolb Laura E
Published: November 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies have received little attention compared to other global health issues, in spite of their extreme importance for reproductive outcomes. Pregnancy increases nutritional demands due to rapid physiological changes and requirements by the growing placenta and fetus. Inadequate stores or intake of micronutrients during pregnancy can have adverse effects on maternal and child health. Except for folate, little is known about the effects of deficiencies existing before pregnancy. Women in low‐ and middle‐income countries may enter pregnancy with multiple micronutrient deficiencies which could have irreversible effects on pregnancy outcomes by affecting critical developmental processes that begin very early in gestation.

We aimed to examine micronutrient status and overall health in 100 prepregnant women living in Asesewa, Ghana (a semi‐rural area). Women were eligible if they reported an expectation to become pregnant within the next 6 months. Enrolled women participated in one visit at the regional hospital where they self‐reported health history and socio‐demographic characteristics and we measured blood pressure, height, weight, and hemoglobin. We collected an 8 mL venous blood sample. Serum and plasma were shipped to Penn State for analysis. Markers of iron status (iron, ferritin, total iron‐binding capacity) were measured in serum by ELISA and transferrin saturation (TSAT) was calculated. Zinc and copper were measured in plasma by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Retinol was measured in serum by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography.

Women had a mean (SD) age of 26.5 (5.1) years, 10.2 (2.8) years of school, and BMI of 25.4 (5.3) kg/m2. Almost all women reported being in a committed relationship (96%) and 40% of women reported no previous pregnancies. Fifty‐four percent had a history of malaria, 15% reported previous night blindness, and only 2 women reported taking micronutrient supplements. Most women reported use of a latrine shared among more than one household and, over 90% of women had electricity and a mobile phone in their household. Twenty percent of households had food insecurity in the past month. For nutritional status, 39% of women were overweight or obese and 34% were anemic. Iron deficiency was seen in 10% (ferritin <12 μg/L and TSAT<16%) of the women, zinc deficiency in 15% (<70 μg/dL), copper deficiency in 9% (<80 μg/dL), and vitamin A deficiency in 7% (retinol <20 μg/dL). Forty‐one percent of women had one deficiency and 10% of women had two deficiencies.

In a population of prepregnant women in Ghana, anemia was common and most women were deficient in one or more micronutrients. Micronutrient status should be given more attention among women who expect to become pregnant and future research should examine the impact on subsequent pregnancy outcomes for the mother and her offspring.

Support or Funding Information

Penn State Africana Research Center and other internal Penn State funding
Risk factors for M. tuberculosis infection in vitamin D deficient Mongolian school children
Authors: Ganmaa Davaasambuu , Khudyakov Polyna , Munkhjargal Oyunsuren , Jargalsaikhan Badamtsetseg , Baigal Delgereh , Ochirbat Batbayar , Buyanjargal Uyanga , Martineau Adrian
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Mongolia has one of the highest TB incidence rates in the Asia Pacific Region (170 per 100,000 population per year estimated in 2014). Schoolchildren are at high risk of acquiring M. tuberculosis infection. However, the prevalence of M. tuberculosis infection and risk factors for acquiring it have not previously been investigated in this setting.

Methods

We screened children aged 6–13 years attending 15 public schools in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, for M. tuberculosis infection using a commercial Interferon‐Gamma Release Assay (QuantiFERON‐TB Gold in‐tube assay, QFT‐G). Information on risk factors for acquisition of Mtb infection was collected from study participants. Regression analysis was conducted to identify independent risk factors for QFT‐G positivity.

Results

The QFT‐G test was performed on a total of 9,137 participants from September 2015 to May 2016: of these, 908 (9.9%) had a positive result, 8,225 (90.0%) had a negative result and 4 (<0.1%) had an indeterminate result. QFT‐positivity was independently associated with increasing age [relative risk (RR) associated with each additional year of age, 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI)1.11 to 1.29)], exposure to cigarette smoke in the home [RR=1.21, 95% CI1.07 to 1.36], presence of a case of active TB in the home [RR=4.01, 95% CI 3.45–4.67] and season of enrolment (Winter vs. Autumn, RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.41; Spring vs. Autumn, RR=1.30, 95% CI 1.10–1.55]. Among the sub‐set of 327 children with a history of household exposure to a case of active TB, QFT‐G positivity was independently associated with increasing age (RR associated with each additional year of age 1.10, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.19) and number of index cases to whom they had been exposed (RR 1.72, 95% CI 1.37 to 2.17).

Conclusions

The prevalence of M. tuberculosis infection was 10%. Risk of infection was independently associated with household exposure to an infectious index case, increasing age, passive smoking and sampling in Winter or Spring

Support or Funding Information

NIH/NHLBI 1R01HL122624‐01
Prolonged fasting increases the cholesterol efflux capacity and anti‐inflammatory functionality of HDL particles in human subjects.
Authors: Rhodes Christopher Holland
Published: November 2023

Prolonged Fasting (>24hrs of 0 caloric intake; PF) has consistently been shown to be associated with a reduction in circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines and improvements in clinical parameters of immune disease in humans. These studies suggest a direct and potent link between PF and immune functionality however, the precise mediators and mechanisms underlying this link have remained largely unstudied. High density lipoprotein (HDL), though typically associated with its role in reverse cholesterol transport (RCT), has also been shown to be a potent regulator of multiple aspects of the human immune system and its composition and functionality is highly sensitive to nutritional interventions such as PF. Given this role in immune regulation and its nutritional sensitivity, HDL seems uniquely poised to play a role in exerting a portion of the beneficial effects associated with PF, however there have been no studies investigating the relationship between PF and HDL functionality. To address this knowledge gap, we have isolated the HDL of human subjects during various timepoints of a 48hr water only fast and tested these HDL for fasting induced alterations in their immunomodulatory and RCT functionalities. Based on these assessments we found that PF induces stark improvements in the functionality of HDL particles. PF increases the ability of HDL to promote cholesterol efflux from cholesterol‐loaded THP‐1 monocytes and increases the ability of HDL to suppress TNF‐α secretion from primary macrophage stimulated with pro‐inflammatory citrullinated‐fibrinogen immune complexes. Furthermore, increased fasting duration was directly associated with increased RCT ability and increased anti‐inflammatory capacity of HDL with the maximal effect being reached after 36hrs of fasting. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that PF is capable of improving the RCT ability of HDL and modifying the immunomodulatory functionality of HDL towards a more anti‐inflammatory phenotype. These results thereby suggest that HDL may represent a novel mechanism by which PF exerts a portion of its systemic anti‐inflammatory and cardioprotective effects. Future studies of the influences of PF on HDL should focus on further assessing the full scope of the HDL functional alterations induced by PF and elucidating the compositional changes to HDL particles that underlie these functional effects.
Variation in Nutritional Quality of School Lunches with Implementation of National School Lunch Program Guidelines
Authors: Joyce Jillian , Rosenkranz Sara
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

In order to receive reimbursement, schools must meet nutrition standards that are based on the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). Nutrition standards for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) are improving, however they leave open the possibility for significant variation in overall nutrition.

OBJECTIVE

Thus, the objective of this study was to determine whether there are significant differences in nutrient content and nutritional quality between a typical school lunch menu (TM) and a nutritionally focused school lunch menu (NFM).

METHODS

Using a cross‐sectional content analysis, we compared a typical school lunch menu (TM) from an actual school district to a nutritionally focused school lunch menu (NFM) created by a Registered Dietitian with the goal of optimizing nutrition regardless of feasibility. The NFM was based on best practices from the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and recommendations for a healthy meal pattern from the 2015 DGA. Menus were chosen from the fall season and portioned for analysis for the sixth to eighth grade NSLP requirements. Daily nutrient content of all macro‐ and micronutrients was determined for each portioned menu system using Nutritionist Pro ™ Diet Analysis Software. Nutritional quality was computed for each day of each menu system using the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI). Independent t‐tests of mean differences were used to determine differences between menu conditions for macro‐ and micronutrient content as well as HEI scores.

RESULTS

For NSLP nutrients required for analysis, the NFM were lower in calories (mean±SD, NFM=637.6±31.1kcals, TM=733.7±154.3kcals, p=0.001), saturated fat (NFM=6.6±3.1g, TM=11.3±6.0g, p<0.001), and sodium (NFM=562.8±139.6mg, TM=1223.1±519.6mg, p<0.001) and higher in fiber (NFM=16.0±11.7, TM=7.4±2.8g, p<0.001). For other nutrients of concern, the NFM were lower in total fat (NFM=18.4±5.6g, TM=26.9±14.0g, p=0.003) and higher for vitamin A (NFM=6674.7±6867.8IU, TM=2305.9±2236.8IU, p<0.001) and magnesium (NFM=154.4±32.2mg, TM=100.8±24.7mg, p<0.001). The NFM had higher overall nutritional quality according to the HEI scores (NFM=91.8±5.1, TM=75.1±5.8, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the significant differences in nutrient content and overall nutritional quality, it is possible for significant variation in nutrition provided by school lunches meeting NSLP requirements. Using best practices from the CACFP and recommendations for a healthy meal pattern from the 2015 DGA may have a significant impact on the overall dietary quality of school lunches meeting NSLP requirements.
Association of Self‐Reported Oat and Milk Consumption with Markers of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Olson Audrey , Frankenfeld Cara L , Wallace Taylor C , Johnson Jodee
Published: November 2023

Background

Consumption of oats has been shown to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Milk consumption is also associated with certain health benefits and these may also include reduction of risk for cardiovascular disease.

Objective

To evaluate the association of oat consumption, with or without concurrent milk consumption on the same day, with cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Methods

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data (1999–2014) was used. Oat and milk consumption was identified from 24‐hour recall data and intakes were classified as (1) no oat, no milk, (2) yes oat, no milk, (3) no oat, yes milk, or (4) yes oat, yes milk. Linear regression was used to evaluate relationship of intake categories with CVD risk factors. Regression analyses were adjusted for demographics, smoking, saturated fat, fiber, and fruit and vegetable intake. We used no oat/no milk as a reference interval to assess the effects of oat, milk and oat with milk consumption on markers of CVD. The oat/no milk group was then used as the reference standard to further determine if a synergistic relationship between concurrent oat and milk consumption existed past that of regular oat consumption alone.

Results

Self‐reported oat intake was associated with improvements in some biomarkers of CVD risk. A statistically significant decrease in the incidence of abdominal obesity measured as waist circumference [OR, 0.57 (95% CI, 0.44 – 0.75)] and 3+ risk factors of metabolic syndrome [OR, 0.69 (95% CI, 0.55 – 0.87)] was observed in the yes oat/yes milk group as compared to non‐consumers (no oat/no milk). Similar effects were also found in the yes oat/no milk group. When the yes oat/no milk group was used as the reference standard we did not find any additional synergistic effects of concurrent consumption of oats with milk (yes oat/yes milk) on markers of CVD.

Conclusion

These results are consistent with clinical data that show oat consumption to be associated with improvements in some biomarkers of CVD risk, however the addition of milk to a diet that already contains oats does not appear to be beneficially or adversely associated with CVD risk factors in this self‐reported dataset.

Support or Funding Information

Funding for this research was provided by PepsiCo Global R&D.
A randomized clinical trial for the effects of rice‐based Korean diet on Cardiovascular risk factors in Korean adults
Authors: Kim Seong‐Ah , Ha Kyungho , Ahn Seoeun , Ham Dongwoo , Kim Subeen , Joung Hyojee
Published: November 2023

Background

Korean dietary pattern rich in vegetables, fish, and whole grains is considered healthy diet. However, few clinical studies examined the effect of Korean diet on human health such as cardiovascular diseases.

Objective

This study was performed to assess the effects of rice‐based Korean diet on cardiovascular risk factors in overweight Korean adults, compared to typical American diet and diet recommended by dietary guidelines for Americans.

Methods

The study was a randomized controlled crossover feeding study conducted in twice from November 2015 to March 2016 and from October 2016 to January 2017. Total 60 subjects aged over 25 years old were randomly assigned one of six sequences for consuming the three kinds of diet. The subjects consumed each the Korean diet, diet recommended by dietary guidelines for Americans, and typical American diet for 4 weeks, and the period was separated by 2 weeks for wash‐off. Body weight was maintained at constant levels. Anthropometric data such as waist circumference and body fat percent, blood pressure, blood lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and insulin were measured at the baseline and the end of each diet period.

Results

In first trial conducted between November 2015 and March 2016, among 29 individuals who enrolled in the study, 25 subjects completed the study. After 4 weeks of feeding, body fat percent and total cholesterol significantly decreased in the Korean diet (p <0.05). Whereas triglycerides significantly decreased on DGA diet and TA diet (p <0.05). No diet had significant effect on fasting glucose and insulin. In second trial started in October 2016, 32 subjects have participated in the trial.

Conclusions

The results of this study will provide important evidence concerning the effect of rice‐based Korean diet on cardiovascular risk factors.

Support or Funding Information

This work is carried out with the support of ‘Research Program for Agricultural Science and Technology Development’, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea (Project No. PJ011637022017).
Dietary diversity in Mexican adults from the 2016 National Nutrition Survey.
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ramírez Sonia , Martínez‐Tapia Brenda , Gaona‐Pineda Elsa Berenice , Arango‐Angarita Andrea , Shamah‐Levy Teresa
Published: November 2023

Objective

To estimate the dietary diversity in Mexican adults from the 2016 National Health and Nutrition Survey.

Methods

We analyzed information from adults ≥20 y (n=7690) from a probabilistic, multi‐stage and representative sample. Dietary data were collected using a 7‐day Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) of 140 food items. Foods were classified into 12 groups. These food groups were: six recommended groups because of their health benefits (fruits and vegetables, legumes, non‐processed meat, dairy products, eggs, and water), and six non‐recommended group because of their content of sugar and fat (processed meat, fast food, salty and sweetened snacks, sweetened cereals, sweetened dairy and non‐dairy beverage). Dietary diversity was estimated as a continuous variable of number of food groups. Also, we calculated the percentage of consumers of each food group. The analysis are presented at national level, by residence area (urban/rural), and region of the country (North, Center, Mexico City and South). Estimations were weighted according to the survey design.

Results

The percentage of consumers of fruits and vegetables was higher in urban area and center and Mexico City regions. Legumes were consumed by more adults in rural area. More than 80% of the adults consumed sweetened non‐dairy beverage. The mean of dietary diversity was 6.5 food groups at national level, and the dietary diversity was lower in rural area and South region.

Conclusion

Although the dietary diversity is not low, high percentage of adults consumes non‐recommended food groups.
Role of Nutrients in Metabolic Health: Updates in 2016
Authors: Kern Hua Jing , Mitmesser Susan Hazels
Published: November 2023

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated chronic disorders including cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are public health concerns in the U.S. and worldwide. The annual combined cost (direct and indirect expenditures) of cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, heart disease, and stroke) and diabetes in US amounted to $650 million in 2003 and is projected to be 1.96 trillion by 2023. “Good health is an investment in economic growth” and nutrition is one of the recommended preventive measures to manage these chronic diseases. However, it is unclear whether and to what extent nutrients could be beneficial to the improvement of these complicated conditions. To help answer this question, we performed a systematic literature search of the emerging human data on individual nutrients & MetS/CVD/T2DM: PubMed was searched from 1 January 2005 to 13 June 2016 using combination of the following keywords: “nutrient” OR “vitamin” OR “mineral” OR “nutraceutical” AND “metabolic syndrome”. The summary of literature comprises proteins, fatty acids, dietary fiber, sugar‐sweetened beverages, dietary antioxidants, vitamin D, folate, biotin, magnesium, chromium, nutraceuticals, gut microbiota, circadian rhythm, and nutrition in early life. Observational studies have shown positive evidence on the beneficial role of a number of nutrients in metabolic health. Although results of some clinical trials are consistent with the observational data, causality remains inconclusive due to either an overall contradicting data or sparsity of well‐designed relevant interventional studies. Instead of the traditional “single‐nutrient” concept, a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to integrate nutrients, lifestyle influencers (i.e. diet, physical activity, and sleep), early risk exposure (i.e. in‐utero, infancy), and population relevance (i.e. healthy, at‐risk, or diseased) may be worth considering in designing confirmatory intervention trials on nutrients and metabolic health.

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Kimchi consumption and the incidence of metabolic syndrome in Korean adults: results from a 10‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Hyun Taisun , Seo Suk‐Hyeon , Han Young‐Hee , Song Yoonju
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of Kimchi consumption and the incidence of metabolic syndrome based on community‐based cohort data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Among 10,030 men and women aged 40 to 69 years participated in the baseline, those who did not attend follow‐up study or who had missing data, or had the energy intake of less than 500 kcal or more than 4,000 kcal, or who had been diagnosed with chronic diseases were excluded. A final cohort of 3,560 adults was included in the analysis. Consumption frequency of Kimchi was assessed with food frequency questionnaire, and the subjects were classified into three groups: ‘three times a day group’, ‘once or twice a day group’, and ‘occasional group’. After controlling for potential confounders such as age, education, income, area, alcohol and energy intake, the consumption frequencies of rice and legumes were significantly higher, and the consumption frequencies of beef, pork, milk and dairy products were significantly lower in ‘three times a day group’ compared to ‘occasional group’. The average intakes of energy, carbohydrate, phosphorus, iron, potassium, sodium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, carotene, and dietary fiber were significantly higher, and fat and retinol were significantly lower in ‘three times a day group’ compared to ‘occasional group’. There was no significant difference of the risk of metabolic syndrome according to the consumption frequency of Kimchi. But the multivariate hazard ratios of low HDL‐cholesterol after controlling for age, education, income, area, alcohol and energy intake was 0.63 (95% CI: 0.40–0.98) for women in the ‘three times a day group’ when compared to those in the ‘occasional group’. The results of this study suggest that consumption of Kimchi at every meal significantly decrease the risk of low HDL‐cholesterol in women.
Impact of Eggs on Dietary Nutrient Adequacy and Cardiovascular Risk in U.S. Adults
Authors: Melough Melissa Moser , Chung Sang‐Jin , Fernandez Maria Luz , Chun Ock K
Published: November 2023

It is well known that eggs are rich sources of micronutrients including choline, selenium, vitamin B12, and carotenoids. It has not been well assessed, however, how egg consumption contributes to overall nutrient adequacy in the American diet, and how consumption of eggs may affect cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine how egg consumption contributes to nutrient intake and affects blood biomarkers of CVD risk in U. S. adults ≥ 19 years (n=4,297) using a nationally representative sample from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2012.

Consumers and non‐consumers of whole egg products were identified from two days of 24‐hour dietary recalls in the NHANES data, and egg consumers were separated into tertiles of intake level. Approximately 63% were classified as egg consumers with mean intake of 52 g/d. In an adjusted model, men were more likely than women to be high consumers of eggs. Those aged 40–59 years were more likely to be egg consumers than those in other age groups. Differences in egg consumption patterns also existed among ethnicities, with African Americans consuming eggs more frequently than any other group. Egg consumption was associated with greater intakes of protein, saturated fat, mono‐ and poly‐unsaturated fats, magnesium, calcium, selenium, riboflavin, and choline. The odds of meeting the RDA for choline in the highest tertile of egg consumption were 14.8 times that of the non‐consumers. Similarly, the odds of achieving the recommended intakes for riboflavin, vitamin A, and vitamin K were 2.0, 1.8, and 1.4 times that of non‐consumers, respectively.

Egg intake was positively associated with dietary cholesterol, but not with serum total cholesterol (TC) when adjusted for energy intake, age, gender, ethnicity, BMI category, and multiple lifestyle factors. Triglyceride/HDL‐cholesterol ratio was significantly decreased with egg consumption. Egg consumption did not significantly alter triglycerides, apoliporotein B, LDL‐cholesterol, TC/HDL‐cholesterol ratio, LDL‐cholesterol/HDL‐cholesterol ratio, fasting glucose, or insulin.

Eggs are important dietary contributors of many essential nutrients, including mono‐ and poly‐unsaturated fats, choline, and several vitamins and minerals. Egg consumption improves triglyceride/HDL‐cholesterol ratio and does not alter other important CVD risk biomarkers including TC, LDL‐cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by the Allen Foundation Research Grant (PI: Ock K. Chun).
Effects of Dietary Inflammatory Index and History of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Insulin Resistance
Authors: Shin Dayeon , Lee Kyung Won , Tande Desiree L. , Hur Junguk , Shivappa Nitin , Wirth Michael D. , Hébert James R.
Published: November 2023

Objective

The combined impact of previously diagnosed gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and dietary sources of inflammation on insulin resistance have yet to be fully examined. The objective of this study was to explore the effect modification of history of GDM on the association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII)TM and beta‐cell function and insulin resistance, using homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR).

Research Design and Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2007 through 2012 were used. A total of 2,674 women (mean age=52 y) including patients with type 2 diabetes who completed one‐day 24‐hour dietary recall with information on history of GDM and HOMA‐IR were included. The DII was calculated to examine inflammatory potential of diet. Insulin resistance was estimated using the HOMA‐IR. Multivariable logistic regressions models were examined to estimate the association between history of GDM, current DII scores and insulin resistance after adjusting for age, body mass index, race/ethnicity, education, family poverty income ratio, and marital status.

Results

A history of GDM was reported by 7% (n=176) of women. The difference in HOMA‐IR levels (mean ± standard error) between women with a history of GDM and women without a history of GDM was of borderline significance (4.3 ± 0.4 vs. 3.5 ± 0.1, P=0.06). Among the women without a history of GDM, women who were in the highest (most pro‐inflammatory) tertile of DII scores had increased risk for insulin resistance compared to the lowest (most anti‐inflammatory) tertile of the DII (adjusted odds ratios=1.56; 95% CI=1.07–2.27). However, no such association was observed among the women with a previous GDM diagnosis.

Conclusions

Within a nationally representative sample, the DII was associated with insulin resistance only in women without a history of GDM. Reducing inflammatory properties of diet may be a strategy for reducing the risk of insulin resistance and eventually type 2 diabetes mellitus among women without a history of GDM.
Lithocholic Acid Induces Apoptosis Of Breast Cancer Cells MCF‐7 And Inhibits Lipogenesis
Authors: Bard Jean‐Marie , Luu Trang Huyen , Carbonnelle Delphine , Chailloux Chloé , Huvelin Jean‐Michel , Bobin‐Dubigeon Christine , Nazih Hassan
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Bile acids are products of cholesterol metabolism and their principal function is the solubilization of fats and liposoluble vitamins in the intestine.

After their secretion into the intestine, primary bile acids are converted into secondary bile acids by intestinal bacteria. Two major secondary bile acids lithocholic acid (LCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) are produced from cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, respectively.

It has been reported that bile acids, particularly LCA have anti‐carcinogenic properties in several cancer cell models such as colon cancer, neuroblastoma cells, and prostate cancer.

On the other hand, it is now recognized that the levels of the FASN enzyme (Fatty Acid Synthase) and lipogenesis are increased in the cancer cells.

The aim of our study was to assess the effect of LCA on MCF‐7 breast cancer cells proliferation and apoptosis and to evaluate its influence on lipogenic enzymes and transcription factors related to lipogenesis.

Material and Methods

Anti‐proliferative properties of LCA were studied using the cell viability MTT assay and analysis of phospho‐Akt protein by FACS method. Apoptosis of MCF‐7 cells was examined by flow cytometer using Annexin‐FITC. QPCR and western blotting were used to study the expressions of genes and proteins involved in apoptosis (P53, Bcl‐2 and Bax) and in lipogenesis (LXR, SREBP‐1, FASN, ACC (Acetyl‐CoA Carboxylase) and SCD‐1 (Stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase‐1). Staining lipids by Oil Red O was used to study the lipid storage.

Results

LCA decreased the cell viability of MCF‐7 cells in a dose (25 to 200 microM)‐ and time (24 and 48h)‐ dependent manner. LCA also reduced Akt phosphorylation in a dose dependent manner (50% reduction at 100 microM, 24h).

We also observed a decrease in the anti‐apoptotic protein Bcl‐2 and an increase in pro‐apoptotic protein p53, compared to untreated cells.

Analyses by qPCR and Western blotting showed that LCA decreased at least by half the expression of LXR, SREBP‐1, FASN and ACC compared to untreated cells by LCA. Staining lipids by Oil Red O showed that MCF‐7 control cells contained abundant lipid droplets in comparison to LCA‐treated cells.

Conclusion

These data show that LCA has anti‐proliferative and pro‐apoptotic properties in MCF‐7 cells. Our study also suggests the potential capacity of LCA to induce apoptosis cancer cells by inhibiting the storage of lipids.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by Ligue contre le Cancer
Inhibitory Effects of DHA and its peroxidation product 4‐HHE on proliferation of breast cancer cells.
Authors: Chen Ging , Tang Feng Yao
Published: November 2023

Background

Fish oil and its constituent, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have learned to inhibit inflammation and have chemopreventive effects on many kinds of cancer. Epidemiological studies suggest that consumption of fish oil is correlated with reduced risk of breast cancer. In this study we examined effects of DHA and its peroxidation product 4‐hydroxyhexenal (4‐HHE) on breast cancer cells. Lipid peroxidation products may regulate tumourigenesis process and we aimed to compare DHA and 4‐HHE effects on breast cancer cells and investigate if DHA's anticancer effect is due to 4‐HHE.

Materials/Methods

Breast cancer cells (MDAMB‐231 and MDAMB‐468) were treated with DHA and 4‐HHE (at concentrations of 0, 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 μM) for 24 and 48 hours by MTT, cell cycle and western blotting assay. For detection of cell signaling pathway, cancer cells were treated with DHA and 4‐HHE for 1 hour with the concentrations mentioned above.

Results

Treatment of DHA and 4‐HHE decreased cell viability in breast cancer cells in dose and time dependent manners. Both DHA and 4‐HHE treatments induced S phase arrest in MDAMB‐231 breast cancer cells at 24‐hour time point and G2/M phase arrest at 48‐hour time point. G2/M phase arrest was seen in MDAMB‐468 breast cancer cells at 48‐hour time point. Cell cycle regulatory protein expression were also modulated in breast cancer cells. P‐STAT3 protein expression was reduced with DHA and 4‐HHE treatments does dependently in breast cancer cells.

Conclusion

DHA and 4‐HHE inhibited cell cycle progression and cell viability through suppression of p‐STAT3 pathway in human breast cancer cells. 4‐HHE seemed to be a more effective agent on the inhibition of cell survival in breast cancer cells, especially in MDAMB‐231 cells.

Support or Funding Information

Department of Nutrition, China Medical University, Taichung, Tiawan.