bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short and Long‐term Pro‐Inflammatory Mediator Responses in Prostate Adenocarcinoma Progression in TRAMP Mice after Goniothalamin Therapy
Authors: Cagnon Valeria , Kido Larissa , Montico Fabio , Costa Debora , Carvalho Joao , Pilli Ronaldo
Published: June 2021

The role of pro‐inflammatory mediators has been widely investigated due to their relevance in prostate cancer (CaP). The aim of the study was to evaluate the short and long term responses of pro‐inflammatory mediators correlated with different grades of CaP in TRAMP mice after Goniothalamin treatment. The control groups were TC8, TC12 and TC22 (8, 12 and 22 week‐old mice). The treated groups received Goniothalamin (150mg/Kg, orally) for 4 weeks (from 8 to 12 week‐old mice) and were sacrificed at different ages, (T1GTN group/12 week‐old mice and T2GTN group/22 week‐old mice). The ventral lobe was collected for light microscopy, ELISA and Western Blotting analyses. Low‐grade and high‐grade PIN in TC8 and TC12 groups were observed. Well‐developed and undifferentiated adenocarcinoma characterized the prostate in the TC22 group. The Goniothalamin treatment led to a decrease of lesion frequency in the treated groups. Decreased NF‐κB and p‐STAT3 levels were seen in TRAMP mice immediately after the treatment. Despite having higher levels of these molecules in the T2GTN group, these levels still showed a decrease in relation to the TC22 group. TNF‐α, IL‐17 and IL1‐β serum levels showed a tendency to decrease with the treatment. The Goniothalamin reduced pro‐tumorigenic effects related to inflammation in the prostate in early and late neoplastic development. Also, the reduction of NF‐kB and p‐STAT3 transcription factor levels led to decreased proliferative process frequency. Thus, the Goniothalamin significantly lessened the pro‐inflammatory signaling, retarding lesion progression and highlighting the relevance of the inflammatory process in early CaP development. Fapesp 2013/01294‐8, 23049‐5
Steroid Hormone and Reactive Stroma Evaluation in Different Grades of Prostate Cancer in TRAMP Mice Following Anti‐inflammatory Treatments
Authors: Cagnon Valeria , Sauce Rafael , Kido Larissa , Montico Fabio , Carvalho Joao , Costa Debora , Pilli Ronaldo
Published: June 2021

Inflammation and stromal reactivity have been related to cancer development. This study evaluated estrogenic and androgenic responses in relation to molecules involved in prostatic reactive stroma in TRAMP mice after either celecoxib or goniothalamin therapies. TRAMP mice were divided into negative control groups (8, 12 and 22 week old mice) and treated groups with celecoxib or goniothalamin. Animals were treated for 4 weeks since the age of 8 weeks old and were sacrificed either immediately after treatment (12 week old mice) or later (22 week old mice). Structural, immunohistochemistry and protein level analyses were carried out for α‐actin, AR (androgen receptor) ERα (estrogen receptor) and vimentin in the prostate. The control 22 group showed well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma. Both treatments led to a decrease of cell proliferation and inflammation, however celocoxib was more efficient in post response to the treatment. Increased α‐actin levels were identified in both anti‐inflammatory treatments. Increased vimentin levels were found for control 12 group, and decreased vimentin levels were found immediately after celocoxib treatment. Both anti‐inflammatory treatments led to decreased AR levels, and stromal responses were verified in the control 22 group and immediately after goniothlamin treatment. Increased estrogenic receptor levels were verified in both celocoxib and goniothalamin treatments. Thus, both anti‐inflammatory treatments led to a delay in cancer progression, and indicated an androgen paracrine signaling in early cancer grades. Vimentin indicated involvement in early cancer development. An estrogen pathway was activated, despite anti‐inflammatory treatment.
A Novel Immunity Boosting Strategy through Hypoxia‐Inducible Factor‐1 (HIF‐1) against Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Lin Ann , Beasley Federico , Olson Joshua , Keller Nadia , Shalwitz Robert , Hannan Thomas , Hutlgren Scott , Nizet Victor
Published: June 2021

Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) is the primary cause of urinary tract infections (UTI), affecting approximately 150 million people worldwide. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 a (HIF‐1α) is a master transcription regulator that coordinates gene expression involving innate immunity. Here, we hypothesize HIF‐1α is important in mounting innate defense against UPEC‐mediated UTI. We used AKB‐4924, a HIF‐1α stabilizing agent, to examine its impact on human uroepithelial cells HTB‐9 and C57BL/6 mice during UPEC infection. UPEC adherence and invasion were significantly compromised in HTB‐9 cells with accumulated HIF‐1α protein. Moreover, cells treated with AKB‐4924 suffered significantly reduced cell death and exfoliation. Likewise, less UPEC was recovered from urine, bladders and kidneys of AKB‐4924 treated mice, whereas more bacteria were recovered from bladders with HIF‐1α deletion. Bladders and kidneys of AKB‐4924 treated mice developed less inflammation marked by decreases in pro‐inflammatory cytokine release and neutrophil activity assessed by ELISA, myeloperoxidase and immunolocalization assays. We also found AKB‐4924 treatment lead to an enhanced production of nitric oxide and antimicrobial peptides cathelicidin and β‐defensin 2. This is the first to report that HIF‐1α boosting of antimicrobial productions in uroepithelial cells is an essential defense strategy for bacterial resistance in the urinary tract.
Fostering Critical Thinking Skills in a Master's‐Level Course via in‐Depth Analysis of Primary Literature
Authors: Tour Ella , Abdullah Christopher , Parris Julian , Lie Richard , Guzdar Amy
Published: June 2021

Critical thinking skills are crucial for success in the modern workforce, particularly for graduate students, who often aim to become physicians or researchers. Primary literature provides an excellent opportunity to practice these skills. We describe a course that includes a structured analysis of four recent papers from diverse fields of biology. To facilitate a critical approach to primary literature, we included a paper with questionable data interpretation and two papers investigating the same biological question, yet reaching opposite conclusions. We report a significant increase in students' self‐efficacy in analyzing data from research papers, evaluating authors' conclusions, and designing experiments. However, using our critical thinking skills test, we observed a statistically significant increase in students' performance in experimental design, but not in analysis or evaluation. Our analysis of students' responses to the question: “What aspects of reading and analyzing primary literature do you find most challenging?” revealed post‐instructional changes in students' perceptions. After instruction, we observed a shift in the cognitive level of challenges our students associated with primary literature, from Lower Order to Higher Order Cognitive Skills. These changes are also consistent with the transition from a novice to a competent reader.
Increases in Neuroinflammation and Astrocyte Activation in a Murine Model of Mixed Dementia
Authors: Helman Alex , Beckett Tina , Niedowicsz Dana , Kohler Katharina , Reeves Valerie , Lee Tiffany , Wilcock Donna , Murphy Michael
Published: June 2021

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are risk factors for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia. This disease pathology includes small strokes, cerebrovascular occlusions, and cerebral microhemorrhages. To examine this unique disease state we developed a db/AD mouse model: a cross between the db/db diabetic mouse and the APP(ΔNL)/PS1(P264L) double knock‐in model of amyloid pathology. The diabetic phenotype causes unique vascular changes, including aneurysms, microhemorrhages, and microinfarcts. Gene expression profiles were collected using microarray data analysis and array cards probing for neuroinflammatory markers. Microglial activation, astrocytic dysfunction, and neurovascular coupling were assessed via immunohistochemistry. The db/AD mice had significant differences in metabolic pathways and a general increase in neuroinflammation, including astrocyte and microglial activation. Additionally, we saw changes in the aquaporin‐4 water channel, the calcium‐dependent potassium channel Kir4.1, and several matrix metalloproteinases, indicating astrocyte dysfunction. We have created a mouse that models a mixed dementia disease state that can be used to better understand how obesity and type 2 diabetes contribute to the development of dementia. Further elucidating the roles of inflammation and astrocyte activation in the development of pathology will be important for improving our understanding of the disease, and for the design of potential therapies. Funded by NIH (ES024158, AG045809, NS083692).
The Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor Modulates the Effects of Testosterone on White Adipose Tissue Metabolic Activation through Estrogen Independent Mechanisms
Authors: Constantinou Caterina , Natsos Anastasios , Karavyraki Marilena , Papakosta Eugenia , Kypreos Kyriakos
Published: June 2021

AIM

The aim of the study was the delineation of the role of estrogens in the functional cross‐talk between LDL receptor (LDLR) and testosterone (T).

METHODS

In vivo indirect calorimetry studies, and metabolic and biochemical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Though sham operated male Ldlr‐/‐ mice fed western‐type diet for 12 weeks became obese, their castrated littermates were resistant to diet‐induced obesity. T replacement confirmed that TD was crucial in the resistance in diet‐induced body weight gain of castrated Ldlr‐/‐ mice. Sham operated Ldlr‐/‐ mice treated with exemestane, a third generation irreversible aromatase inhibitor, showed a similar body weight gain to placebo‐treated animals, providing a first indication that the resistance of castrated Ldlr‐/‐ mice towards diet‐induced obesity was specific to TD and not due to estrogen deficiency. Ovariectomized female Ldlr‐/‐ mice further confirmed that the resistance of castrated Ldlr‐/‐ mice towards diet‐induced obesity is directly due to TD. Additionally, these experiments showed that estrogen counteracts the functions of testosterone in the regulation of plasma triglyceride levels in Ldlr‐/‐ mice. The observed elevated metabolic activity of castrated Ldlr‐/‐ mice was directly attributed to the markedly increased mitochondrial cytochrome c and UCP1 protein levels in white adipose tissue (WAT) of castrated mice providing strong evidence of metabolic activation (browing) of WAT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that LDLR modulates the effects of testosterone on WAT metabolic activation through estrogen independent mechanisms.
Engineering T Cell Receptors to Optimize Recognition of Target Antigens
Authors: Riley Timothy , Baker Brian
Published: June 2021

The activation of the adaptive immune response involves the interaction between a T‐cell receptor (TCR) and a peptide from a foreign antigen presented by the Major Histocompatibility Complex proteins (MHC). When measured in solution, TCR affinity for a peptide/MHC is relatively weak (KD values range from 1‐200μM). There is evidence to suggest that binding affinity correlates with in vivo potency, which has led to the generation of several high affinity TCR variants. However, increases in affinity can result in cross‐reactive, off target recognition. The potential negative consequences of TCR cross‐reactivity has led to the suggestion that the most critical property for an engineered TCR is a high affinity, high specific interaction. Structure guided design of TCRs preserves specificity by designing and constructing targeted interactions. Our laboratory has implemented this approach using the Rosetta software suite to optimize TCR‐peptide/MHC interactions. When combined with a custom energy function, this approach was able to identify several affinity‐enhancing mutations in the A6 and DMF5 TCRs, with a strong correlation between predicted and measured changes in binding energy. However, our preliminary data indicates that the approach taken with A6 and DMF5 is not as successful with other TCRs, indicating further development is needed to develop a generally applicable approach for enhancing TCR‐peptide/MHC binding.
Radical Propagation in E. coli Class Ia Ribonucleotide Reductase Initiated by a 2,3,5‐trifluorotyrosyl Radical Cofactor
Authors: Ravichandran Kanchana , Minnihan Ellen , Stubbe JoAnne
Published: June 2021

Escherichia coli class Ia ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) catalyzes the formation of all four deoxynucleoside 5′‐diphosphates from their corresponding nucleoside 5′‐diphosphates. Class Ia RNRs are composed of two homodimeric subunits, α2 and β2, that form the active complex. A stable tyrosyl radical (Y122•) in the β2 subunit generates a transient cysteine radical (C439•) located 35 Å away in the α2 subunit by a mechanism that is proposed to involve the concerted movement of protons and electrons (proton‐coupled electron transfer or PCET) through several aromatic amino acid residues (Y122 ‐ [W48] ‐ Y356 in β2 to Y731 ‐ Y730 ‐ C439 in α2). 2,3,5‐trifluorotyrosine (2,3,5‐F3Y) has been site‐specifically inserted at Y122 using a polyspecific aminoacyl tRNA synthetase to modulate the driving force of radical propagation. The diferric‐2,3,5‐F3Y• radical cofactor self assembles in vitro producing 0.8‐1.0 F3Y•/β2. The reaction of Y122(2,3,5)F3Y‐β2, α2, substrate and effector generates 0.3‐0.5 equiv. of a putative Y356• that is kinetically and chemically competent in nucleotide reduction. At 5°C, complete re‐oxidation of 2,3,5‐F3Y by Y356• is recorded and represents our first observation of the disappearance and reappearance of the stable radical at position 122. Altering the driving force for radical propagation by simply 10 mV partially lifts the protein conformational gate that governs radical transport allowing mechanistic insight into the details of PCET.
Characterization of an IMP Cyclohydrolase in Haloferax volcanii
Authors: Pasier Michelle , Sarisky Catherine
Published: June 2021

Purine biosynthesis is a fundamental metabolic pathway present in nearly all life forms. Archaea, unlike bacteria and eukaryotes, do not universally conserve enzymes in this pathway. Additionally, some archaeal purine biosynthetic enzymes are not homologous to non‐archaeal enzymes. The final reaction in de novo purine synthesis pathway is the conversion of 5‐formamidoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribotide (FAICAR) to inosine‐5′‐monophosphate (IMP). In Haloferax volcanii, a halophilic archaeon, this reaction is catalyzed by an archaeal‐type IMP cyclohydrolase. The genome of H. volcanii is sequenced, but the characterization of its genes has not yet been completed. HVO_0011 was cloned, overexpressed in E. coli, and shown to have IMP cyclohydrolase activity in a HPLC‐based assay. Work is in progress to purify the enzyme and to demonstrate complementation in an E. coli knock‐out system, but the work has been challenging due to unusually high salt requirements. The H. volcanii enzyme is the fourth archaeal PurO‐type IMP cyclohydrolase to be functionally characterized, and the first from a halophile.
Latent Luciferase Activity in Fatty Acyl‐CoA Synthetases Revealed by Synthetic Luciferins
Authors: Mofford David , Reddy Randheer , Miller Stephen
Published: June 2021

Insect bioluminescence is largely confined to a small subset of beetles, most notably the firefly. However, beetle luciferases are thought to have evolved from fatty acyl‐CoA synthetases found in all insects. Both classes of enzymes activate fatty acids with ATP to form acyl‐adenylate intermediates, but only luciferases can activate and oxidize D‐luciferin to emit light. Recently, we found that the Drosophila fatty acyl‐CoA synthetase CG6178, which cannot use D‐luciferin as a substrate, is a latent luciferase due to its ability to catalyze light emission from the synthetic luciferin analog CycLuc2. Bioluminescence can be detected from the purified protein, endogenous CG6178 in live Drosophila Schneider 2 cells, and from mammalian cells transfected with CG6178. Here we show that additional luciferin analogs can support bioluminescence with CG6178, highlighting the generality of the light emitting chemistry and the catalytic promiscuity of this enzyme. We also find that additional insect fatty acyl‐CoA synthetases possess luciferase activity when treated with an appropriate synthetic luciferin. These results demonstrate that the introduction of a new substrate can reveal latent enzymatic activity that differs significantly from an enzyme's normal function and suggest that the chemistry of a small molecule substrate can help drive evolution of new enzymatic functions.
Role of N‐glycosylation in the stability of CaVα2δ1
Authors: Tetreault Marie‐Philippe , Segura Emilie , Bourdin Benoite , Lesage Sylvie , Parent Lucie
Published: June 2021

L‐type CaV1.2 channels play a key role in the excitation‐contraction coupling in the heart. They are formed of a pore‐forming CaVα1 subunit in complex with the intracellular CaVβ and the disulfur‐linked CaVα2δ accessory subunits. CaVα2δ significantly increases peak current densities of CaV1.2. The mechanism underlying this effect is still under study but requires that CaVα2δ be trafficked at the cell surface. CaVα2δ contains 18 putative N‐glycosylation sites. A study was carried out to identify the role of N‐glycosylation in the trafficking and protein stability of the subunit CaVα2δ. Site‐directed mutagenesis was used to modify the asparagine residues (individually or in combination) to the conservative glutamine residue. Surface density and protein stability were evaluated using a flow cytometry assay using a constitutively fluorescent CaVα2δ construct. Preliminary data show that the cell surface and total protein densities of CaVα2δ decreased proportionally to the number of mutations. Functional analysis of the same constructs using whole‐cell patch clamp recordings in HEK cells, confirmed that the peak current density of CaV1.2 decreased in the presence of the CaVα2δ mutants. These results confirm that the surface expression of CaVα2δ plays a critical role in the function of L‐type CaV1.2 channels. Work is under way to identify the most critical residues in this process. Ultimately, our studies will shed light on the molecular mechanism accounting for the modulation of L‐type Ca2+ currents by the auxiliary CaVα2δ subunit.
Prevalence of Salmonella spp. and serogroups found in venomous and nonvenomous snakes maintained in a zoological collection
Authors: Stark Eden , Valitutto Marc , Bobbitt Kathleen , Corbo Chrisopher
Published: June 2021

This study set out to identify Salmonella species and serogroups found in the fecal matter from the snake collection, including venomous snakes, from a local zoo. Snakes are known asymptomatic carriers ofSalmonella spp. Previous studies have shown that Salmonella subspecies arizoniae can cause osteomyelitis in Ridgenose Rattlesnakes (Crotalus willardi). This study examining the carriage rate of serogroups in multiple snake species can help determine the possible spread of clinically significant Salmonella spp. within the collection and possible disease manifestations in both humans and snakes. All fecal samples were collected by professionally trained reptile keepers. Feces were placed in buffered peptone water using aseptic technique. The samples were then enriched using selenite broth and plated for isolation on hektoen enteric agar. Single colonies that tested positive motility, negative indole reaction, and negative for urease were sequenced using 16s ribosomal sequencing techniques. The samples were also serogrouped using a latex agglutination test. A total of thirty‐two samples were taken from twenty‐six species of snakes. Of the samples, 84.38% (27/32) had positive Salmonella colonies. The twenty‐seven positive Salmonella colonies were isolated and sequenced from 22 species of snakes. Serogrouping revealed clinically significant Salmonella serogroups C, A, B, and E or G. Clinically significant Salmonella spp. were found to be prevalent in the venomous and nonvenomous snakes. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is being conducted to examine the pathogenicity islands from the isolates.
Kinetics of Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Zellmer Timothy , Heuertz Rita
Published: June 2021

Biofilms are structured communities attached to surfaces that have been implicated in increasing antimicrobic resistance and infections that are chronic or medical device‐associated. This study focused on quantitative assessment of biofilm formation by S. aureus (either MRSA, methicillin‐resistant or MSSA, methicillin susceptible) and P. aeruginosa in a kinetic manner. Bacteria assessed were ATCC strains and clinical isolates from an area hospital laboratory and incubation conditions were static or shaking (250 rpm) during incubation (2‐48 hours). A microplate assay allowed for quantitative spectrophotometric (A590) evaluation of crystal violet‐stained biofilm adherent to microwells at indicated time points. Results indicated that clinical isolates of MRSA and MSSA produced different amounts of biofilm (with MRSA producing twice as much as MSSA) but had similar timing of biofilm peaks and declines. Clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa produced less biofilm than MRSA but as much as MSSA. Interestingly, results suggested that half of the P. aeruginosa were delayed biofilm producers indicating kinetic diversity that differed from a striking similarity among the S. aureus, especially clinical MRSA isolates. Results suggested that ATCC strains closely approximated results of clinical isolates from hospitalized patients thereby justifying use of ATCC strains for future studies. Finally, results indicated that there was no difference between shaking and static incubation conditions for biofilm formation. Future studies will focus on reversible versus irreversible bacterial adherence to better define steps of biofilm formation

Financial support for TDZ was received from the DeNardo Education and Research Foundation.
Levels of some Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Hematological Parameters in Cancer Patients from Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Ayanshina Oluwamuyiwa , Adeola Segun , Igwo‐Ezikpe Miriam
Published: June 2021

The onset of oxidative stress occurs as a result of an imbalance between free radical scavenging capacity of antioxidants and reactive oxygen species (ROSs). This leads to the induction and progression of many disorders including cancer. The overall aim of this study was to establish the interaction between oxidative stress and carcinogenesis. Venous blood samples of cancer patients (n=30) receiving chemotherapy regimen in Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria and human volunteers (n=50) with no previous history of cancer were collected. Plasma levels of nitric oxide (NO), total glutathione (TGSH), cortisol and some haematological parameters were determined spectrophotometrically. Results showed that there were significant (plt;0.05) differences in the levels of plasma NO, TGSH and cortisol in cancer patients compared to the control. The levels of NO, TGSH and cortisol were observed to be independent of the histopathological grade of cancer and non‐parametric clinical data such as age and sex. NO positively and significantly (plt;0.001) correlated with TGSH (r=0.588). Haematological analysis showed that the levels of White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Hemoglobin (HGB) and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) were significantly (plt;0.05) lower in cancer patients compared to the control. Present investigation has shown that NO, TGSH and cortisol can indicate oxidative stress and therefore they can be used as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis. Likewise, results also indicated that changes in haematological parameters may be eminent in cancer patients.
Imaging Tumor Targeted Delivery using FRET in vivo
Authors: Rudkouskaya Alena , Anderson Kate , Rajoria Shilpi , Zhao Lingling , Sinsuebphon Nattawut , Intes Xavier , Barroso Margarida
Published: June 2021

Our goal is to develop in vivo non‐invasive optical imaging assays for optimization of anti‐cancer drug targeted therapy. We have established a fluorescence lifetime Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FL‐FRET) non‐invasive whole‐body in vivo tomographic imaging technique that can discriminate bound and internalized near‐infrared (NIR)‐labeled transferrin (Tfn) from free, soluble NIR‐Tfn. This FRET assay exploits the homodimeric nature of transferrin receptor (TFR) that binds two molecules of Tfn in close proximity to determine dimerization and internalization of TFR‐Tfn complexes into cancer cells. The Tfn FRET assay has been validated in vitro by visible and NIR FRET microscopy. FL‐FRET imaging in vivo has been used to measure the internalization of tail‐vein injected NIR‐Tfn into human breast T47D tumor xenografts in live nude mice. Quantification of FRET donor % (FD%) in T47D tumor xenografts, indicates a higher proportion of FD% with increasing acceptor:donor ratio, demonstrating tumor uptake of NIR‐Tfn. Furthermore, relative high FD% for holo‐Tfn (iron‐loaded) compared to that of apo‐Tfn (iron‐depleted) demonstrates specific TFR‐mediated uptake of holo‐Tfn by T47D tumor xenografts. In conclusion, we have successfully demonstrated the quantitative receptor‐mediated uptake of Tfn into human breast tumors in vivo using a novel non‐invasive NIR FL‐FRET tomographic imaging assay.
Effectiveness of A Community‐Based Participatory Nutrition Promotion Program to Improve Linear and Ponderal Growth in Children 6 to 24 Months of Age in Rural Eastern Ethiopia: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Kang Yunhee , Sinamo Sisay , Kim Sungtae , Christian Parul
Published: June 2021

Appropriate complementary feeding and hygiene may reduce child undernutrition. We designed a community‐based participatory nutrition promotion (CPNP) program, adopting in part the theory of positive deviance, in Ethiopia. This program through group sessions engaged mothers in “learning by doing” around infant feeding and hygiene and utilization of affordable resources. This program was implemented in addition to the existing government nutrition programs and tested in a cluster‐randomized trial to examine its effectiveness in improving child growth. 1,790 children 6 to 12 months of age were enrolled in the trial and measured for their height and weight every three months for 12 months. 38.9% of children enrolled in the intervention area attended the CPNP program. In multi‐level mixed‐effect regression models based on longitudinal data controlling for clustering effects, children in the intervention area had a significantly greater length‐for‐age z score (LAZ)/month of 0.017 (95% CI 0.004, 0.030) and weight‐for‐age z score (WAZ)/month of 0.015 (95% CI 0.003, 0.026) compared to children in the control area. Significant differences in LAZ and WAZ scores between two groups were apparent after 6 months of program implementation and continued up to a year. Stunting, underweight, and wasting were 5–7 percentage points lower in the intervention area than the control area after a year. This new program approach was effective in improving child growth in the rural Ethiopian context. This trial was funded by KOICA, World Vision Korea, and WITH.
Nutritional Status of Children in Primary Schools in the Oio and Cacheu Regions in Guinea‐Bissau
Authors: Schlossman Nina , Saltzman Edward , Shea M Kyla , Balan Ela , Fuss Paul , Batra Payal , Pruzensky William , Griffith John , Coglianese Nicole , Wood Lauren , Santoso Marianne , Roberts Susan
Published: June 2021

There has been no survey of nutrition status among primary school children in Guinea‐Bissau. To fill this gap, a USDA funded pilot project and Cluster Randomized Control Trial to improve nutrition in the population were conducted. We assessed weight‐for‐age, height‐for‐age, BMI‐for‐age Z‐scores (WAZ, HAZ, BAZ) and anemia in 4,807 children.
Nutrition status of children in primary school is a concern (23.8% WAZ <‐2, 6.9% WAZ <‐3, 16.0% HAZ <‐2, 3.8% HAZ <‐3, 15.7% BAZ <‐2, 3.5% BAZ <‐3, 18% mild anemia, 21.6% moderate anemia, and 5.5% severe anemia). Boys scored worse than girls on all measures. 40.0% of children surveyed were older than the expected age range (6‐12 years old); up to 18 years. These 12‐18 year‐old boys have a much worse nutrition status (p<0.05) compared to those aged 6‐12 years on all measures and compared to 12‐18 year old girls. Nutrition status of 12‐18 year old girls was similar to those aged 6‐12 years of age. Nutrition status among boys and girls aged 6‐12 years was similar.
There is a high rate of malnutrition among children in primary school in rural Guinea‐Bissau. A larger than expected number of children in primary schools were older than 12 years of age. Those planning nutrition programs for primary school in rural Guinea‐Bissau should be prepared to address the special nutrition needs of adolescents. The school platform can be an important channel to address nutrition in this age group that is often underserved by the public health system.
Comparison of a Novel Brief Nutrition Screening Tool and the Nutrition Subjective Global Assessment at Bach Mai Hospital (BMH), Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Manders A J , Lien TKD , Ly LN , Quoc Anh N , Henry EG , Young LS , Oliver L , Collier SB , Tham TT , K DA , Hien TT , Phuong HN , Mai NT , Tuyet CT , Lenders CM
Published: June 2021

Methods

A cross‐sectional, retrospective chart review of 300 adults admitted to the ICU, nephrology or endocrinology wards between 9‐12/2013. Data included questions from a novel screening tool (Fig. 1), questions from the SGA (weight change, change in dietary intake, gastrointestinal symptoms), ward, current age, height, weight, gender; and usual body weight. Patients with SGA score B or C were considered at risk for malnutrition. Sensitivity, specificity, and ROC analyses were performed.

Results

300 inpatients age 47.5 ± 13.7 y were studied, 171 (57%) were male, 120 (40%) were admitted to the endocrinology ward, 120 (40%) to the nephrology ward, and 60 (20%) to the ICU. Rates of underweight, moderate and severe thinness were 16.7%, 6.7%, and 5%. For patients with SGA score B or C, sensitivity of the novel screening tool was 83.3%, specificity 86.7%. Area Under Curve (AUC) was 0.85. Oral intake 蠄 50% than typical was also predictive of SGA score B or C, sensitivity 80.8%, specificity 79.4%, AUC 0.80. Other combinations of parameters were studied, but AUC were well below 0.80.

Conclusion

This brief novel nutrition screening tool may be clinically relevant in hospitals in Vietnam.

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Support provided by Abbott Fund.
Breastfeeding Intentions and Practices among Women in the U.S. With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Doughty Kimberly , Reeves Katherine , Ronnenberg Alayne , Qian Jing , Sibeko Lindiwe
Published: June 2021

Objective

To compare breastfeeding intention and behaviors in women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a U.S. sample.

Methods

We used chi square tests to investigate the associations between GDM, intention to breastfeed exclusively, ever breastfeeding, and ever exclusively breastfeeding. To assess associations between GDM and duration of any breastfeeding, duration of exclusive breastfeeding, and breastfeeding intensity, Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests were used. Further analysis using multivariable regression modeling with adjustment for potential confounders will be undertaken.

Results

Significantly fewer pregnant women with GDM planned to exclusively breastfeed their infants (49.7% vs. 57.9% in women without GDM, p=0.005). Compared with new mothers without GDM, fewer women with GDM pregnancies initiated breastfeeding (79.6% vs. 85.8%, p=0.02) and breastfed exclusively for any period of time (29.1% vs. 44.9%, p<0.001). Likewise, breastfeeding intensity in the infant's first 6 months of life was lower among women with GDM (p=0.02). GDM was significantly associated with duration of exclusive breastfeeding (p<0.001), but not duration of any breastfeeding (p=0.14).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that pregnant women with GDM were less likely than their counterparts without GDM to intend to breastfeed exclusively. After delivery, these women were also less likely to initiate breastfeeding and to breastfeed exclusively for any length of time. We plan to explore the factors that mediate these relationships in subsequent analyses.
Anthropometric & Lifestyle Outcomes after a Family‐Based Lifestyle Intervention
Authors: Baker Bryan , Briggs Early Kathaleen , Sorrells Robert , Yi‐Frazier Joyce , Gottlieb Kate
Published: June 2021

Introduction

ACT is an evidence‐based family‐centered behavioral intervention developed by Seattle Children's Hospital. In 2012, Yakima WA was identified as the 4th fattest US city with 14% obesity rate among 8th graders. ACT was brought to Yakima due to a large Hispanic population where a culturally appropriate program was needed.

Methods

Participating kids with BMI‐for‐age 蠅85th%tile were referred by providers. ACT was held at the YMCA in English and Spanish x 12 weekly sessions. Anthropometrics were recorded at baseline and follow‐up. Diet and physical activity were assessed via Block screeners. SPSS v22 was used to calculate all descriptive and inferential statistics using a mixed ANOVA with a priori post‐hoc tests of simple effects.

Results

Eighty‐eight percent completed the intervention (n=128), which included 84 kids (8‐14 years) and 61 adults (29‐51 years). Most participants were Hispanic (74%) and 48% participated in Spanish. Both kids and adults significantly improved waist circumference (p<.001), BMI (p=.017) and body fat (p=.007). Kids significantly reduced saturated fat (p = .024), calorie (p = .026), and carbohydrate intake (p=.022). Estimated total energy expenditure for both kids (p=.032) and adults (p=.006) improved.

Conclusions

ACT improved eating and activity behaviors and anthropometrics among both Spanish and English groups, indicating the program is culturally appropriate. Low‐cost interventions in partnership with hospitals and community stakeholders are an effective way to improve health outcomes among families with obesity in this community.
Development of Smart Phone Application “HAPPY ME” for Obesity Prevention and Acceptability Study among Elementary School Students
Authors: Jung Ji‐Hye , Jeon So‐Hye , Bae Hyun‐Jung , Kang Jea‐Heon
Published: June 2021

A healthier choice for food and physical activity correlate with children's health and weight status. So, in order to prevent and manage obesity in elementary schools, we have developed an application named “HAPPY ME” focused on fourth to sixth grade of elementary school students based on the level of cognitive development. In addition, our research team measured feasibility and satisfaction of developed application for children. Those fourth to sixth graders who used smart phones were recruited from 2 elementary schools and community child care centers, in Seoul, Korea. Participated students were required to fill in a questionnaire about their health behavior and used the prototype of “HAPPY ME” application for 4 weeks. The feasibility and satisfaction of the application were evaluated and analyzed via SPSS program. The studies were shown that the record rate of diet diary was very low(0.057%), Quest form application utility was very frequently(27.3 times/28 days). The evaluation for the feasibility of this application was analyzed by 5‐point scale. The eveluation showed a relatively high score, average score of 3.6 for all questions. Therefore, regarding the satisfaction of the following application, most of participants felt that “HAPPY ME” application influenced their diets and exercise behavior(3.9/5.0), and agreed that this program was helpful. These results suggest that modified “HAPPY ME” application may prevent and manage obesity by improving healthy eating behavior and increasing physical activity. This research was supported by the R&D Program for Society of the National Research Foundation funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning (2013M3C8A2075911).
Gestational diabetes and large for‐gestational age (LGA) infants are common in a multiethnic population of low‐income pregnant women in Montreal.
Authors: Menard Veronique , Weiler Hope
Published: June 2021

Background

Pregnancy is a critical period where maternal nutrition and lifestyle choices have major influences on maternal and child health. Low income, prevalent in single parents who tend to be women (19.7%) and recent immigrants (16.4%), increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. These pregnant women may not have resources to afford food, shelter and other necessities and may experience health inequities that impact pregnancy. Community‐based interventions using the Higgins' method aim to improve pregnancy outcomes in low‐income women through education and provision of food and supplements, although its consequences on pregnancy outcomes are not clear.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to describe frequencies and temporal shifts of adverse pregnancy outcomes between 2008 and 2013 in women attending the Montreal Diet Dispensary.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was undertaken to establish the frequency of pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), maternal anemia as well as low birth weight (LBW) and large‐for‐gestational age infants.

Results

Between 2008 and 2013, 5689 pregnancies were reviewed. Pregnancy complications included 1272 (22%) women with maternal anemia, followed by 683 (12%) and 424 (7%) with GDM and LGA infants, respectively but prematurity (n=231; 4%), LBW (175; 3%), high blood pressure (n=155; 2.7%) and preeclampsia (n=6; 0.001%) were below the general population frequency.

Conclusion

These data suggest that prevention of LBW and prematurity are well supported by the Higgins method and outcomes such as GDM and LGA infants need to be addressed in low‐income pregnancies.
WAVE Pilot Study: Comparison of High School Soccer Players and Parents' Confidence, Expectations, and Practices in Food and Nutrition to Support Youth Sports Performance
Authors: Meng Yu , Wong Siew Sun , Manore Melinda
Published: June 2021

Objective

The WAVE Pilot Study, a 2yr obesity prevention intervention for high‐school soccer players (14‐19y) aim to understand the knowledge and skills needed by high school soccer players and parents to support sports performance.

Methods

Forty‐two parent and child dyads independently completed a self‐administered survey about their confidence, expectations, and applications of food and nutrition knowledge and skills, healthy life habits, including screen time. Parent‐child agreements were compared to identify potential needs for the WAVE Pilot Study to meet.

Results

The top three skills that children (n=55) rated themselves lacking include: gardening (63%), cooking (47%), and grocery shopping (40%). Parents (n=42) rated themselves lacking in gardening skills (46%), sports nutrition knowledge (38%), and meal planning ideas for before/during/after game (31%). The highest agreement in the dyads was parental role modeling of healthy eating (57%). The two lowest dyad agreements were: 1) parents setting rules and expectations for what their children should eat (29%), and 2) how long children are allowed to spend on screen time (29%).

Conclusions

These results help identify key topics of interest for active children and parents, which can be expanded on to promote targeted healthy living messages. Areas of disagreement open up further discussion and opportunities for targeted intervention to prevent childhood obesity.

Sponsor

NIFA AFRI Award No. 2013‐67001‐20418
Process Evaluation to Monitor and Guide a Multi‐Level, Multi‐Component Obesity Prevention Program for Low‐Income, African American Youth
Authors: Gittelsohn Joel , Yang Tracy , Kharmats Anna , Steeves Elizabeth Anderson , Rastatter Sarah , Welsh Claire , Shipley Cara
Published: June 2021

Multilevel, multicomponent (MLMC) interventions are needed to address the complex, multifactorial obesity epidemic. Such interventions work in several settings simultaneously, including schools, food stores, restaurants and households. However, limited work has been done to use MLMC program implementation data to guide program delivery. In July 2014, implementation of B'More Healthy Communities for Kids MLMC trial began. It's goal is to reduce obesity among low income African American youth (10‐14 years) by partnering with policymakers, wholesalers, small food stores, carryouts, recreation centers, and families through environmental change, education, structural incentives, and social media. Detailed process evaluation is conducted by regularly assessing 88 implementation standards for reach, dose delivered and fidelity. Every two months, the latest process data is reviewed to improve the program. For example, during the first review, reach to children during corner store intervention delivery periods did not meet the standard of 10 interactions/session (mean: 6.7, range: 0‐20). The # of new items stocked per food store was low. In a second review, reach to children during store interactive sessions increased (mean: 8.7). Additionally, recreation center session reach decreased from 15.7 to 7.6 interactions/session. These findings led to rescheduling intervention delivery times to when more youth were present, and increasing the duration of sessions. Detailed process evaluations using defined standards are essential for continuous improvement of MLMC intervention trials.
Indices Of Sleep Disturbances Among Children With Autism In Oman: A Case Control Study
Authors: Al‐Farsi Yahya , Al‐Farsi Omar , Al‐Sharbati Marwan , Waly Mostafa , Al‐Adawi Samir
Published: June 2021

Background

Among developing countries, there is dearth of information related to sleep problems among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their sequel on parents health.

Objective

To explore indices of sleep disturbances among children with ASD compared to control groups, and the association between sleep disturbances and stress among parents.

Methods

A population‐based case control study was conducted among 122 cases of children with ASD children (ASD group), and randomly‐selected two control groups: 81 children with intellectual disabilities other than ASD (ID group) and 90 typically developed children (TD group). Standardized and validated Arabic versions of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire (CSHQ), and Parental Stress Scale (PSC) have been used to asses sleep behavior of children and parental stress.

Results

Overall, the mean score of CSHQ for ASD group was higher compared to ID group and TD group (51.3, 50.0, and 46.9; P‐value 0.002), which indicated that ASD children had less quality of sleep compared to control groups. Proportionately, more incidences of bed resistance, sleep onset delay, parasomnia, and day time sleepiness were reported among ASD group compared to control groups. The correlation was significant between parenting stress and ASD children poor quality of sleep (P‐value=0.001, r2=0.2).

Conclusions

The study provides a suggestive evidence that children with ASD in Oman are at higher risk of suffering from sleep disturbances and consequential parental stress compared to non‐ASD children.
Potential Modulation of Vascular Function Relating to Baseline Hydration Status in Healthy Human Participants in a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Sayegh Marietta , Ray Sumantra
Published: June 2021

Endothelium plays a pivotal role in vascular homeostasis. Vascular and endothelial function can be measured objectively in human volunteers using macro and micro vascular measures and other classical cardiovascular risk markers. Evidence is scarce regarding the possible effect that water (hydration) or its lack (dehydration) may have on relatively well validated surrogate measures of vascular structure and function. This study aimed to quantify the associations between hydration status measured using several hydration markers on key vascular function markers in males and females. Forty overweight and obese but otherwise healthy participants were recruited for this analysis between July 2013 and June 2014. Participants were fasted for 12 hours prior to their visit. Participants attended the MRC Human Nutrition Research unit for a baseline visit where hydration status was estimated both on the day and using 24 hour urine volume. Vascular function was also measured on the day. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses revealed that 24 hour urine volume was statistically associated with augmentation index (AIx) calculated using PWA in women (P<0.05). Similarly, volume of water consumed per minute, USG and 24hrs urine osmolality were significantly associated with LDI in women (P<0.05). Age and urine osmolality were found to be statistically associated with LDI in men (P<0.01). No other significant differences were observed. These data suggest that future nutrition and vascular function research studies may have to adjust for hydration status especially where PWA and LDI are key measures in order to increase accuracy of results.
Incorporating Social Franchising (SF) Principles in Government Health Services Improves Breastfeeding (BF) Practices in Vietnam
Authors: Rawat R , Nguyen P , Kim S , Hajeebhoy N , Tran H , Ruel M , Menon P
Published: June 2021

Alive &Thrive (A&T) applied principles of SF to improve quality of infant & young child feeding (IYCF) counseling in >800 government health centers in Vietnam. We assessed the impact of the SF model on IYCF practices for children < 24 mo and attained linear growth for children 24‐59 mo using a cluster‐randomized evaluation design. Forty communes were randomly assigned to either 1) A&T‐intensive (A&T‐I) (standard government health services (SGHS), mass media (MM), and SF IYCF counseling), or 2) A&T‐mass media only (A&T‐MM) (SGHS and MM). Cross‐sectional surveys [N~2000 children/group] at baseline (2010) and endline (2014) were used to derive cluster‐adjusted double‐difference estimates (DDE) (differences in changes over time between groups). Large, significant impacts were seen on exclusive BF (18.9→ 57.8 in A&T‐I, p<0.001 for DDE); and not using prelacteals (50.3→ 52.2 in A&T‐I vs. 44.8→ 29.0 in A&T‐MM, p<0.001 for DDE). Compared to 2010, early initiation of BF was stable over time in A&T‐I (58.8→ 54.4), but decreased in A&T‐MM areas (58.1→ 43.4; p<0.05 for DDE), suggesting that A&T‐I services were protective. Minimum diet diversity was high (>70%) at baseline and increased to >90% in 2014 in A&T‐I and A&T‐MM (DDE n.s.). Child stunting in 24‐59 mo, already low at baseline, reduced from ~23% to ~17% between 2010 and 2014 in both groups (DDE n.s.). A SF approach to strengthening and scaling up IYCF counseling improved BF, particularly EBF, and is an effective model for integration into the health system in Vietnam and similar contexts.

Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, through Alive & Thrive, managed by FHI360.