bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HISTIDINE‐TAG‐SPECIFIC OPTICAL PROBES
Authors: Elverson Heather E. , Hellman Lance M. , Melikishvili Manana , Zhao Chunxia , Whiteheart Sidney W. , Fried Michael G.
Published: June 2021

The (His6)–nickel(II)–nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni2+–NTA) system is a universal tool for affinity purification of recom‐binant proteins. This interaction can be exploited for the attachment of fluorophores and chromophores to proteins at user‐defined locations. (Ni2+–NTA)2–Cyanine dyes bind model His6 proteins with moderate affinity (K~1.5 ( 106M−1) without detectable loss of enzyme activity. Binding is readily reversed by EDTA or imidazole allowing recovery of the native protein. In the absence of EDTA or imidazole, exchange between His6‐motifs is slow (under standard conditions, in the presence of 1 μM His6 peptide, t1/2 ~50h). Binding is highly‐specific for oligohistidine motifs, allowing the detection of His6‐proteins in mixtures containing other proteins, even in solutions of biological complexity. Here we demonstrate applications of this technology, including FRET assays and analytical ultracentrifugation analyses of concentrated protein mixtures. Supported by NIH grant GM 070662, to MGF.
Gold Nanoparticle associated to Berberine induces vasorelaxation and cytosolic Ca2+ decrease in rat aorta
Authors: Santos Naiara Teodosio , Silva Bruno Rodrigues , Bendhack Lusiane Maria , Lunardi Claure Nain
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effect of berberine (BS) and modified surface of gold nanoparticles thioglycolic acid associated to berberine (AuNPTGA‐BS) on rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells calcium ions concentration and aorta relaxation. Vascular reactivity was studied in denuded rat aortic rings and efficacy (ME) and potency (pD2) of BS in solution and in AuNPTGA and AuNPTGA‐BS were determined. Concentration‐effect curves for BS were constructed in phenylephrine (PE) pre‐contracted aorta. BS in solution, induced PE‐contraction reversal response with ME: 103.3 ± 4.2%, pD2: 5.47 ± 0.15 (n=6) and in AuNPTGA‐BS (ME: 81.9 ± 12.9%, pD2: 5.49 ± 0.25, n=5). The compound AuNP alone failed to induce rat aortic ring relaxation. The effects of the compounds on the cytosolic calcium ions concentration was measured by the fluorescence intensity decrease percentage (%ΔFI) of the calcium ions sensitive dye FLUO‐4AM by laser scanning confocal microscope. We have observed that the addition of BS decreased the fluorescence of the dye with (ΔIF: 39.5 ±5.4% (n=3) and for AuNPTGA‐BS (ΔIF= 65.0±4.7% n=3). On the other hand, AuNPTGA alone had no effect on the fluorescence emission. In conclusion, the vasorelaxation induced by BS and AuNPTGA‐BS is due to the cytosolic calcium ions concentration decrease. Supported by FAPDF, FAPESP, CAPES, CNPq, FINATEC and DPP‐UnB.
Association of Berberine into hydrogel as drug delivery system
Authors: Souza Camila R , Lunardi Claure N
Published: June 2021

Hydrogels are hydrophilic polymer networks having the capacity to absorb water, ranging from about twenty to thousand times their dry weight. Berberine (BS) is a natural product, a quaternary ammonium salt from the group of isoquinoline alkaloids found in medicinal plants as Berberis Vulgaris. It has been reported that BS has some activity against and has already been used to treat dysentery, hypertension, inflammation, and liver disease in China and Japan. In this work, berberine was used as a model drug to study the its association with different types of hydrogel of Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA 10%); gellan gum (GG 2%) and gellan gum‐PVA crosslinked with cysteine (cys) (GG2%PVA2%2%cys) preparations. Parameters such as fraction of retained water (Wf); hydration percentage (%H); Swelling (DSw) and time course profile (t=100%) (TC) were evaluated.

The results showed that the GG2%PVA2%cis was able to retain more water and swelling than the other preparations. The time course of release of the BS to the medium was greater for GG2%PVA2%cys making it a candidate to drug delivery studies in biological assays. Supported by FAPDF, CAPES, CNPq, FINATEC and DPP‐UnB.
Using flow cytometry to identify the orientations of P6 protein in Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae and Escherichia coli
Authors: Snyder Joy , Czup Katerina , Sharma Sharad , Pichichero Michael , Michel Lea Vacca
Published: June 2021

Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is a pathogenic bacteria and the cause of several illnesses, including pneumonia and otitis media. Thus, the development of a vaccine for NTHi would be highly beneficial. The outer membrane protein P6 is currently a top vaccine candidate for NTHi. Past studies have demonstrated that P6 can interact with molecules both inside AND outside of the cell, but its sequence and structure suggests that it does not cross the outer cellular membrane. Results from our flow cytometry experiments confirm that P6 is surface exposed and able to interact with extracellular antibodies. Other studies from our group have shown that P6 is also located inside of NTHi cells. Thus, we propose that P6 exhibits two orientations in the outer membrane of NTHi, a novel biological phenomenon only recently described for one other bacterial lipoprotein. We used flow cytometry to show that the P6 homolog, Pal, in Escherichia coli (E. coli) is also surface exposed, suggesting Pal also exhibits a dual orientation in the outer membrane of E. coli. This study was funded by the Rochester Institute of Technology, NIH NIDCD RO1 08671 (to MEP), and by an ASBMB UAN Undergraduate Research Award.
Calcium‐mediated regulation of the Ran gradient and karyopherin nuclear transport receptors.
Authors: Grenet Ashley , Woodward Stephanie , Resendes Karen K
Published: June 2021

Several cellular stresses, such as UV radiation, heat shock, and oxidative or hyperosmotic stress can cause a disruption of two key regulators of nuclear protein transport, the Ran gradient and karyopherin transport factors. We have demonstrated that cellular stress induced by increasing cellular calcium, either by the introduction of Thapsigargin, an inhibitor of Ca2⁺ uptake into the endoplasmic reticulum, or Ionomycin, which releases calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum, disrupts nuclear transport in HeLa cells. We sought to determine if variation of cellular calcium levels affected nuclear transport through alterations of Ran or karyopherins. We revealed that altering calcium levels leads to an accumulation of Ran in the cytoplasm. Additionally, cells treated with thapsigargin or ionomycin experience relocation of several karyopherins such as Crm1, Importin alpha, Importin beta, and Transportin. Persistent exposure to either drug leads to cellular death. However, the disruption of the Ran gradient can be reversed and rescue is enhanced by the presence of a calcium chelator, BAPTA. These results suggest that alteration of cellular calcium levels, causes the localization of Ran to be disrupted along with that of the nuclear transport factors, suggesting that their is indeed a role for calcium as a regulator in the traditional Ran‐mediated nuclear transport pathways.
S. cerevisiae ENV7 encodes a novel vacuolar membrane kinase involved in delivery or function at the vacuole and is an ortholog of human ser/thr kinase STK16
Authors: Gharakhanian Editte , Manandhar Surya , Cocca Stephanie , Ricarte Florante
Published: June 2021

Yeast vacuoles are functionally analogous to mammalian lysosomes. A genome wide screen by our lab has identified novel genes involved at endosome and vacuole interface (ENV). Here we present multifaceted characterization of the novel ENV7 gene product. A combination of confocal microscopic and biochemical studies confirm localization of tagged Env7p to vacuolar membranes. Bioinformatic analyses identified a highly conserved ser/thr kinase domain. We report that Env7p is a novel protein‐kinase capable of mediating both autophosphorylation and phosphorylation of exogenous substrates in vitro. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis strongly supports Env7p as an ortholog of human STK16, a ser/thr kinase localized to the endomembrane system with no known function. E269A site‐directed mutant of ENV7 is kinase‐dead. Interestingly, E269A mutant is unstable in vivo and shows aberrant patterns of membrane association. The mutant protein is significantly stabilized by chemical as well as genetic block of the proteasomal system. Based on these findings, we conclude that Env7p is a novel and conserved vacuolar membrane kinase whose phosphorylation and correct membrane association are essential for its in vivo stability. We also propose that misfolded or mislocalized Env7p is a substrate for proteasomal degradation.
A Model System to Investigate Antibody Bipolar Bridging Mediated by gE‐gI, a Herpes Virus Fc Receptor
Authors: Ndjamen Blaise , Farley Alexander , Bjorkman Pamela J.
Published: June 2021

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV‐1) expresses two membrane glycoproteins (gE and gI) that bind the Fc region of host immunoglobulin G (IgG), which allows HSV‐infected cells to escape recognition by Fc‐dependent immune cells. HSV‐1 gE‐gI can further undermine the immune system by participating in antibody bipolar bridging (ABB), a process by which the antigen‐binding fragments of the IgG bind a viral antigen while the Fc binds to gE‐gI. The fate of the gE‐gI/IgG/viral antigen ABB complex is still unknown. In this study, we engineered an in vitro ABB system to determine whether the gE‐gI/IgG/viral antigen complex is internalized and targeted for degradation in host cells. This system involves HeLa cells transiently expressing HSV‐1 gE‐gI and HSV‐1 gD; and two forms of the monoclonal anti‐gD antibody: one in which the Fabs were fused to a human IgG1 Fc (hIgG), which can bind to gE‐gI via its Fc and to gD via its Fabs, and one in which the Fabs were fused to a mouse IgG2a Fc (mIgG), which can bind to gD but not to gE‐gI. A hIgG against an irrelevant HIV‐1 antigen was used as a control. Time‐lapse confocal imaging showed that gE‐gI internalized hIgG/gD but not mIgG/gD; internalized IgG and gD were targeted into degradative compartments. These results suggest that gE‐gI plays an active role in clearing the infected cell surface of both host IgG and viral antigens, providing HSV‐1 with a mechanism to evade the immune responses.
Relating coumarin molecular structure to biological and chemical properties
Authors: Hefter Emily , Caruso Francesco , Rossi Miriam
Published: June 2021

Coumarins are plant derived compounds that display a range of biological properties, e.g. Warfarin, as well as interesting fluorescent properties. Natural substituents on the coumarin phenyl rings can be replaced with moieties that increase the desired biological function. Here we investigate the crystal structures of several coumarin compounds and attempt to relate specific functional groups to the observed biological or physical properties displayed. The crystal structures of the compounds are first compared to spectral data to attempt to correlate key substituents to observed fluorescent activity. Using this relationship between structure and function, coumarins can potentially be employed in various detection and analytical techniques. Using protein modeling software, coumarin compounds are examined as inhibitors at the active site of critical proteins involved in the HIV life cycle. The goal is to correlate certain functional groups present on the coumarin compounds to the observed biological properties with the idea of increasing the effects of coumarin compounds on the desired targets by altering moieties present on coumarin derivatives.
Science of Cooking – An interdisciplinary approach to teaching a non‐science majors lab and lecture course
Authors: Provost Joseph J
Published: June 2021

Teaching non‐science major courses is a particularly important and a concomitantly challenging task. Cooking is one of the oldest applications of biology and chemistry and can provide an interesting vehicle to attract students to science in a meaningful way. Science of Cooking is an interdisciplinary course taught to 150 liberal studies students each semester. The course includes both in‐class and take‐home laboratory experiences, negating a requirement for multiple lab sections making the course more efficient in terms of faculty load. Course content is designed around foods and cooking and the appropriate chemistry, biochemistry and physics is introduced as needed to explain what is happening in the kitchen. Topics include making cheese, hot sauce and salsa, what is taste, and wine & beer. This poster will present the course, laboratory experiments and the many in‐class demonstrations created to address this critical need. Assessment of student learning and attitudes toward science from students in this course (n>425) will be presented. Finally, a proposed textbook supporting future similar courses will be shared.
A Medical Humanities Perspective of Frida Kahlo – An Opportunity for Recruitment into the Health Sciences
Authors: Antelo Fernando
Published: June 2021

With the national population projected to increase to 392 million by 2050, the United States of America must have a workforce trained to support a growing health care industry. Efforts to address this need will undoubtedly focus on the recruitment of college, high school, and middle school students. Traditional efforts often expose students directly to gross anatomy and microbiology with the purpose of stimulating interest in the health care professions and research. However, some students many not participate in these recruitment programs due to intimidation by the subject matter. Recruitment efforts must be creative in order to attract students from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic strata. For past five years, the author has talked to undergraduate students about the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo (1907–1954) from a medical humanities perspective. Through a presentation entitled “Frida Kahlo ‐ The Forgotten Medical Student”, the author discusses Kahlo's interest in medicine and the detailed illustration of anatomy and classical genetics in her artwork. Moreover, the discussion explores the numerous medical conditions of Kahlo and how she created a visual record of health through her paintings.
Case‐Control Study of Eating Behaviors of Young Adults with and without Diet‐Related Chronic Health Condition (DRCHCs)
Authors: Quick Virginia , McWilliams Rita , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol
Published: June 2021

Young adults with DRCHCs (i.e.,type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome) must adhere to dietary restrictions to control their diseases. These restrictions may put them at risk for disturbed eating. This study aimed to determine if young adults (18–26 years) with and without DRCHCs differed with regard to disturbed eating behaviors (Binge Eating; Inappropriate Compensatory Behaviors; Eating, Weight, and Shape Concerns; and Restraint scales from Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire; Emotional and Disinhibited Eating from Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire; and Night Eating Questionnaire). Each DRCHC participant (cases=166) was matched with 4 healthy participants (controls=664) based on gender and BMI (±0.50 BMI units). Conditional logistic regression analyses indicated cases were twice as likely to have been diagnosed by a healthcare provider with an eating disorder (p=0.08, OR=1.99, CI90 [1.03–3.83]). Cases were significantly more likely to use excessive exercise to manage their weight (p=0.04, OR=1.41, CI95 [1.02–1.94]) and more likely to misuse medicine (e.g., laxatives) to control their weight (p=0.04, OR=1.14, CI95 [1.00–1.29]) than controls. Findings indicate that healthcare professionals should screen DRCHC patients for disturbed eating behaviors and eating disorders.

Funding: Kappa Omicron Nu Fellowship

Society Topic Area: ASN‐5002 Nutrition interventions for risk factor modification in chronic disease
Does lowering glycated hemoglobin reduce hypogonadism in type 2 diabetic men with low PSA levels on low glycemic index diets?
Authors: Augustin Livia , Kendall Cyril WC , Mirrahimi Arash , Chiavaroli Laura , Blanco Sonia , Jenkins David JA
Published: June 2021

Objective

hypogonadism is linked to type 2 diabetes, the metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Very low testosterone levels have been directly associated to insulin resistance, muscle weakness and adipose tissue hypertrophy, three important aspects of glycemic control. We therefore investigated whether improving glycemic control through diet may reduce hypogonadism.

Research Design and Methods: post‐hoc analysis in 64 men with type 2 diabetes randomized to either low GI‐high diets or high fiber cereal diets. A1c, PSA and testosterone levels were analyzed.

Results

Lowering glycated hemoglobin (A1c) was significantly correlated with increases in very low PSA levels of <0.5ug/L (r=−0.56, p<0.03).

Conclusions

improving glycemic control may reduce insulin resistance and hence improve very low testosterone levels.
A longitudinal study on the preventive effects of dumbbell exercise and gum‐chewing training on the sarcopenia and dementia in old people in Korea (2009–2019)
Authors: Suzuki Masashige , Lee Sang-Jik , Kim HR
Published: June 2021

Introduction

With increaing age, muscle strength decreases and may eventually reach a level at which weakness starts to restrict the ability to perform usual activities and also normal brain functions. In the very old, loss of muscle mass and strength are suggested to be important factors in the process of increased frailty and dementia. Grip‐strength has been used as an indicator of overall muscle strength and is directly supporting the usual activities such as eating, toileting, cloth‐changing, bathing, face‐, mouth‐, and hair‐arranging, wheel‐chair driving, etc. Fingers grip‐open and chewing exercises increase blood flow in the brain tissue. Suzukiˈs Standard Dumbbell Exercise after a high‐protein snack could increase the muscle mass and grip‐strength to improve the MMS test score of old people with light dementia.

Objectives and Methods

To longitudinally investigate the preventive effects of dumbbell exercise and gum‐chewing training on the increases in the grip‐strength and chewing ability to prevent the frailty and dementia for ten years, 839 out of 1139 old peoples (65yrs<) in Gyeongiu were recruited. The physical characteristics, grip‐strength, chewing ability, MMS test, and the self‐care abilities of usual daily activities were obtained for basal data.

Results

Grip‐strength was positively correlated with chewing ability and recognition ability.
Supplementing the Nutrition Screening Initiative survey to characterize nutritionally at risk older adults
Authors: Wunderlich Shahla M. , Bai Yeon , Brusca Joseph , Gaits Susan
Published: June 2021

The Nutrition Screening Initiative (NSI) was developed as a quick and easy method to determine if an older individual may be at nutritional risk. It has been widely used to determine, by scoring, those at nutritional risk. The questions on the NSI targeted to identify seven risk factors such as inappropriate food intake, poverty, social isolation, dependency/disability, acute/chronic conditions, chronic medication use, and advanced age. The purpose of the current study is to further characterize at risk older adults. A supplemental questionnaire (SQ) was developed and administered to 69 participants who were identified as high‐risk based on NSI checklist. Participants’ responses on SQ were analyzed with demographic characteristics such as gender, ethnicity and education. Education level was a major contributor to influence eating behaviors among older adults p≤0.01. Fifty five percent (55%) of those participants who graduated college consumed 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day compared to (11.9%) of high school graduates and (16.7%) of middle school graduates (p <0.001). Examining the risk factors on NSI can help health providers to determine whether further nutrition intervention is needed. However, more in depth questions should be added to determine the basis for the nutritional risk score.
Nutrition Environment Measures Survey examining food price, availability, and quality, before and after relocation of Atlanta public housing residents
Authors: Ndirangu Murugi , Oakley Deirdre , Anderson Anjenique
Published: June 2021

In an effort to deconcentrate poverty, Atlanta became the first city in the U.S. to completely eliminate public housing by relocating about 10,000 residents. Research has shown that the health status of public housing residents is worse than any other population. There is also an inverse relationship between neighborhood availability of healthy, affordable foods and diet intake.

The aim of this study was to compare the price, availability, and quality of food items in the public housing residents’ communities, before and after relocation. Using Nutrition Environment Measures Survey, a total of 42 food store audits were conducted. Data was collected in July and August 2009 (pre‐relocation) and April to Aug 2010 (post‐relocation).

Overall residents seem to have moved to neighborhoods where food prices were comparable to their previous residences. However food security was likely to be negatively impacted as residents had greater expenses in utilities and transport. Availability of certain healthy foods, low fat milk was greater after relocation. However as observed in the baseline survey, residents may choose to buy the unhealthy options, therefore education was important.

These results suggest that public housing residents relocated to food environments that were similar to their previous environment. Relocation of public housing residence did not improve access to food.
School environment and its relationship with obesity in the state of Mexico
Authors: Levy Teresa Shamah , del Carmen Morales-Ruan María , Castellanos Claudia Amaya , Coronel Aracelí Salazar , Aguilar Alejandra Jiménez , Humarán Ignacio Méndez Gómez
Published: June 2021

Objective

To examine the role of individual‐level, school student composition, and school built environment on the overweight and obesity in schools, involved in the strategy “nutrition on the go”.

Methods

We built school environment classifications based on food availability representing six groups (milk; dairy products, juices and nectars, pastries and fried foods, oilseeds and pulses). We used averages per school from individual information: socioeconomic index, physical activity, television viewing time, and the ratings of knowledge and self‐efficacy of feeding and physical activity. The classification of school environment was made using Wardˈs cluster method; we choose 3 clusters. A logistic regression model was used to study the association between overweight and obesity with the school environment.

Results

The 3 school environments are: 1) Class 1: medium consumption and high in the rest. 2) Class 2: average consumption and low the rest; and 3) Class3: low consumption, knowledge and self efficacy of feeding and physical activity, intermediate the rest. The effect of school environment on the probability of overweight and obesity in children is protective when it was in class 2 and 3,and when the children are involved in the intervention group (p=0.01).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that school composition highly influences obesity rates beyond individual‐level factors.
Beyond 5‐A‐Day: The relationship of fruit and vegetable consumption with nutrient intake adequacy among Mexican Americans
Authors: Chavez Adrian , Farr Kristin J , Lindberg Nangel M , Vega-López Sonia
Published: June 2021

To assess whether fruit and vegetable (F/V) intake is associated with adequate nutrient intake in 65 healthy Mexican Americans (22 M/43 F, age=37.3±9.7 y; BMI=28.6±5.3 kg/m2) dietary data were gathered using the Southwestern Food Frequency Questionnaire. Mean energy (E) intake was 2254±1075 kcal with 31±4% and 17±2% of E from fat and protein, respectively. Mean F/V intake (combined) was 5±3 servings/d. Participants who consumed at least 5 daily servings of F/V (n=26; 38%) consumed significantly more F/V (8.1±2.1 vs. 3.0±1.1; p<0.001) than those who did not meet daily recommended intake (DRI). They also consumed more fiber (2.1±0.8 g, p<0.01), vitamin A (1928±598 IU, p<0.01), and potassium (181±78 mg, p<0.05) per 1000 kcal. However, 65% and 31% of participants meeting F/V intake did not meet the DRI for fiber and vitamin A, respectively, and only 27% had adequate potassium intake. Moreover, 15%, 50%, 96%, and 35% of participants in this subgroup did not meet the DRIs of vitamins C, D and E, and calcium, respectively. In addition, 54% and 58% of respondents exceeded the DRI of saturated fat (10% E) and cholesterol (300 mg), respectively, and 81% exceeded the recommended upper limit for sodium (2300 mg). These data suggest that despite a purported adequate F/V intake among Mexican Americans, nutrient intake adequacy may be compromised by consumption of foods with low nutrient density. Funded by Arizona State University.
Self‐reported lactose intolerance in Canadian adults
Authors: Barr Susan Irene
Published: June 2021

Little is known about the prevalence of self‐reported lactose intolerance (LI) in the Canadian population, and its implications for intakes of nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. Accordingly, an on‐line survey was completed in September 2011 by a nationally‐representative sample of 2554 English‐ or French‐speaking adults aged ≥19 y. The survey included a semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire to assess intake of milk products and soy beverages, questions on use of calcium and vitamin D supplements, a scale to assess health beliefs toward milk products, and questions on LI. Overall, 16% of Canadian adults reported LI. This was significantly more common in women than men (20% vs 12%), in younger than older adults (18% vs 13%), and in non‐Caucasians than Caucasians (23% vs 15%), but did not vary by education level. Those with self‐reported LI had less positive beliefs about health benefits of milk products (mean ± SE score out of 5: 3.1 ± 0.05 vs 3.7 ± 0.01), were less likely to meet recommended intakes of milk products and alternatives (23% vs 41%), and were more likely to use supplemental calcium (52% vs 48%) and vitamin D (58% vs 42%). They had a higher prevalence of inadequate intakes of calcium (68% vs 58%) although vitamin D adequacy did not differ. Aspects of the results suggest the need for additional education on managing perceived LI. Supported by a grant from the Canadian Agri‐Science Cluster Initiative.
Food insecurity, nutrition knowledge, and cooking skills are barriers to healthy eating among food pantry users
Authors: Hale Robyn Nicole , Chhabra Surbhi , Zipfel Ashley , Holben David H. , Vaughn Lisa M. , Falciglia Grace , Lee Seung-Yeon
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to examine household food security, cooking confidence, and nutrition knowledge and beliefs of food pantry users. In‐person interviews were conducted with 54 food pantry users (55.6% male) from an urban food pantry in Cincinnati, OH. Food security status was determined using the 18‐item US Household Food Security Survey Module. Nutrition knowledge and beliefs were assessed using a shortened US Department of Agriculture Diet and Health Survey. Cooking skills were assessed using a modified questionnaire originally by the UK Health Education Authority. Participants were 50.5±9.1 years of age and primarily Black Americans (88.9%) living in households characterized as food insecure (81.5%; 22.2% low food security, 59.3% very low food security). Food pantry users were confident in their cooking skills (87.0%), but many still thought that their ability to cook healthy meals was a barrier to healthy eating (42.6%). Participants reported that nutrition label reading was useful for making better food choices (90.7%), but the information was hard to interpret (59.3%). Yet, they were interested in learning how to use food labels to choose a nutritious diet (87.1%). Nutrition education for food pantry users may be an essential part of interventions for the food insecure within the constraints of limited food access.

Startup funding by University Research Council, University of Cincinnati

Grant Funding Source: none
FOOD INSECURITY ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN POOR MEXICAN HOUSEHOLDS
Authors: Mundo-Rosas Verónica , Shamah-Levy Teresa
Published: June 2021

Objetive

Assess food insecurity (FI) in poor Mexican households and its association with social and demographic characteristics.

Methods

410 households with children were classified into 4 levels those were defined as: food security (FS); mild (MIFI), moderate (MFI) and severe (SFI) food insecurity using the Scale Latin American and Caribbean Food Security (ELCSA). Logistic regression models were tested in order to measure the association between levels of food insecurity and economic and demographic characteristics as follows: age and maternal education, housing conditions as floor material and overcrowding.

Results

34.7% of households were classified as MIFI, 28.7% as MFI and 23.3% as SFI. Overcrowding was a factor significantly associated with some category of FI (OR=5.9, p=0.015) and ground floor with SFI (OR=2.8, p=0.001).

Conclusion

The proportion of Mexican households whit FI at this sample was very high such as their poverty indicators association.
Are food insecure adults more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes mellitus?
Authors: Ding Meng , Zizza Claire
Published: June 2021

Food insecure adults are at risk for chronic diseases, including diabetes. Although they are vulnerable, no study has been conducted to examine the association between food insecurity and undiagnosed diabetes. Our population‐based sample included 10452 participants (≥ 20 y) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2008. Food security status was assessed by USDAˈs 18‐item Food Security Survey Module. Undiagnosed diabetes was determined by comparing self‐reported and clinical examination results. Logistic regression models controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, health insurance, family income and level of education were used to estimate the association between food security status and undiagnosed diabetes. Compared with those who were food secure, adults with marginal food security had 1.81‐fold increased odds of undiagnosed diabetes (95% CI, 1.25–2.61), and those with low food security had a 1.63‐fold increased odds of undiagnosed diabetes (95% CI, 1.13–2.34). There was no association with very low food security. In conclusion, food insecure adults may be more vulnerable because they may not be aware of their disease status.
Risk of protein inadequacy among young children from rural, low‐income populations of Uganda, Kenya and Bangladesh
Authors: Suri Devika , Urbanek Joanna , Ghosh Shibani
Published: June 2021

Background

Previous work found >30% risk of protein inadequacy in Sub‐Saharan African and South Asian populations dependent on starchy staple crops. This has not been evaluated at an individual level. This study examined the risk of protein inadequacy in young children in Uganda, Kenya and Bangladesh.

Methods

Secondary dietary data was obtained for children age 2–6 from low‐income, rural populations. Mean intakes of “utilizable” protein (adjusted for quality, digestibility using PDCAAS) and % calories from starchy staples (cassava/rice) were calculated. Risk of protein inadequacy (percent of population below protein EAR) was calculated using WHO protein requirements and methodology.

Results

On average 48% of calories were from cassava and rice in Uganda, 53% cassava in Kenya and 62% rice in Bangladesh. Mean utilizable protein intakes were 31.5 ± 21.4, 12.9 ± 10.9g, 15.6 ± 6.7, and mean PDCAAS scores were 0.70 ± 0.19, 0.58 ± 0.2, 0.72 ± 0.11, respectively. Risk of protein inadequacy was 31% in Uganda, 34% in Kenya, 56% in Bangladesh.

Conclusion

Risk of protein inadequacy was >30% in children in the three countries. As dietary protein quality was low, it was important to calculate risk of protein inadequacy using “utilizable” not total protein. These findings 1) support the risk of protein inadequacy calculated using national data and 2) underscore the need to evaluate protein and its quality in at‐risk populations.
Weight Regulation Practices of Young Adults: Predictors of Restraint Eaters
Authors: Quick Virginia
Published: June 2021

Young adults frequently use restraint eating (i.e., going for long periods [≥8 hours] without eating to influence their shape or weight) to control their weight. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of restraint eating in young adults, compare eating behaviors of restraint and non‐restraint eaters (NREs), and predict restraint eaters (REs). A diverse (56% white, 63% female) sample of young adults (n=2449) completed an online survey that included eating behavior scales (Restraint, Eating, Shape, and Weight Concerns, and Inappropriate Compensatory Behaviors from the Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire, Emotional and Disinhibited Eating from the Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire, and Night Eating from the Night Eating Questionnaire) and demographics. A quarter of women and 20% of men were classified as REs. Independent t‐tests and chisquare analyses revealed REs had significantly (p<0.001) higher BMIs and were more likely to diet than NREs. REs also had significantly higher scores on all eating behavior scales than NREs even after controlling for potential confounding factors (BMI, race). Stepwise regression revealed eating, shape, and weight concerns, inappropriate compensatory behaviors, night eating, female gender, and BMI were strong predictors of being a RE (R2=0.27). This study can help healthcare professionals be more aware of weight control practices of young adults and create appropriate interventions. Funding:Kappa Omicron Nu

SOCIETY TOPIC CATEGORY: 5215‐ASN: Behavioral Science and Eating Behavior Change
Media coverage and awareness of the release of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and MyPlate
Authors: Epstein Shoshana B. , Jeanpierre Kaleena , Lynn Stefanie , Kant Ashima K.
Published: June 2021

Studies suggest that the level of awareness of past versions of DGA among Americans is low; however, the reasons for this poor awareness are not known. We examined the newspaper, television, and magazine coverage of the release of 2010 DGA (released 1/31/11) and MyPlate (released 6/02/11) in the New York metropolitan area to understand their possible contribution to this awareness gap. From Jan. 2011 to Oct. 2011, four newspapers with the largest circulation in the NY area (New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Daily News, and New York Post) published 12 stories; three non‐cable network television channels (ABC, CBS, and NBC) reported 14 stories; and five magazines with largest circulation among African‐American women or general women readers (Cooking Light, Ebony, Essence, Jet, and O! The Oprah Magazine) reported two stories on the release of this guidance. We also surveyed community dwelling adults aged > 50 years (n=200), college students (n=219), and college‐educated, African‐American women (n=167) about their awareness of the 2010 DGA and MyPlate. Less than 25% in each group mentioned that they were aware of this guidance. In conclusion, we found that newspapers and television (but not magazines) did cover the release of both the 2010 DGA and MyPlate in the NY metro area; however, the awareness of this recently released guidance in our convenience sample was lower than previously reported.
Following a diet and hemoglobin A1C in Cuban Americans with and without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Huffman Fatma G. , Vaccaro Joan A. , Zarini Gustavo G. , Dixon Zisca
Published: June 2021

Objective

An important measure in prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes is adherence to a diet. Cuban‐Americans are at higher risk for diabetes and diabetes related complications than non‐Hispanic Whites. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between reporting following a diet and glycemic control for Cuban‐Americans (CA) with and without type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis in N=367 Cuban‐American adults (n=190 with, and n=175, without type 2 diabetes) with consent.

Results

Cuban‐Americans who reported following a special diet had better glycemic control (lower A1C blood levels) than CA who reported not following a special diet adjusting for diabetes status, gender, age, blood triglycerides and waist circumference [B= − 0.017(−0.032, −0.002), p = 0.030].

Conclusions

Lower A1C associated with reporting following a diet, adjusting for diabetes status, suggests the importance of diet adherence in blood glucose regulation. Policy change to include dietary counseling for routine medical treatment would be implied upon validation of this study. Funding for this research was provided through and NIH/NIDDK sponsored grant.
Glycemic response to muscadine grape components, comparing healthy weight and overweight individuals
Authors: Cvitkusic Sanja
Published: June 2021

Currently, 25 million people in the US are diabetic, with an additional 79 million characterized as prediabetic. Antioxidant‐rich foods, such as muscadine grapes, have been reported to improve diabetes outcomes. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of muscadine grape components (skin, pulp, and seeds) on blood glucose in normal weight and overweight individuals (n = 29; 8 male and 21 female; ages 18–28). Anthropometric data was obtained to determine normal (BMI < 25) versus overweight status (BMI > 25). Testing occurred over five days, with a six‐day rest period between treatments. Subjects recorded blood glucose after an overnight fast and before consuming samples (standardized at 50 g glucose) at intervals of 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after consuming the sample. Glycemic response was computed using the incremental area under the curve calculation. Peak glucose concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in overweight versus normal weight individuals. Skin, pulp, whole grape, and seed purees lowered glycemic responses by 72%, 66%, 43%, and 5%, respectively. Only the muscadine skin treatment significantly lowered glycemic response at (p < 0.05). Grape skins positively affected glycemic responses in both normal and overweight subjects.
Prevalence of nutrient inadequacy in pregnant women in the United States
Authors: Chung Carolyn , Juan WenYen , Yamini Essie , Trumbo Paula
Published: June 2021

Studies are lacking on the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy (PNI) from food and food and dietary supplements (total) among pregnant US women ages 14 to 50 yrs old. This study evaluated the PNI for vitamins A, C, E, D, B12, and folate, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium and prevalence of nutrient adequacy (PNA) for potassium and choline in pregnant women (n=612). NHANES (2003–2006 or 2005–2008) consumption data were analyzed to estimate usual nutrient intake distributions using the National Cancer Institute and the Iowa State statistical methods. A probability approach method was used to determine nutrient inadequacy for iron. The PNI was determined by the proportion of pregnant women with usual nutrient intakes below the population‐weighted Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). For potassium and choline, the PNA was based on the Adequate Intakes (AIs). Pregnant women had PNIs for vitamins A, E, and D, folate, magnesium, and calcium of 36, 95, 88, 40, 57, 21% from food only; and 22, 51, 48, 28, 55, and 19 % from total intake, respectively. Lower PNIs were found for vitamins C and B12, iron, and zinc. Only 4 and 13% of pregnant women had usual intakes above the AIs for potassium and choline, respectively. The prevalence of nutrient inadequacy in pregnant women is high for certain nutrients despite supplement use. Examination of food sources for pregnant women may inform choices for improving intakes of inadequate nutrients.
Commercially prepared single serving meals as lunch meal replacements produce energy deficit and weight loss
Authors: Reimers Kristin J , Sinnett Stephanie , Papadopoulos Terry , Nguyen Von , Yu Zhiping , Rippe James
Published: June 2021

Replacing conventional meals with portion‐controlled meals is an effective component of a weight loss program. However, little is known about the efficacy of meal replacements outside the context of a weight loss diet. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of replacing participants’ typical cafeteria or restaurant lunch with a prepared single serving meal, with no additional dietary intervention. Thirty five participants (ages 20–55 years, BMI 27–37) consumed their usual lunch at the cafeteria or restaurant. Energy composition of the lunch was determined using the duplicate plate method. For 30 days thereafter participants replaced their typical lunch with a frozen or shelf stable single serving meal. Compared to baseline, daily energy intake decreased by 374 kcal/d (2010 ± 550 vs. 1636 ± 463 kcal/d, p < 0.01), with the decrease occurring primarily at lunch (−443 kcal, 766 ± 250 vs. 323 ± 69 kcal, p<0.001). No significant (p > 0.05) energy differences were observed at pre vs. post breakfast (−40 kcal, 286 ± 158 vs. 327 ± 183 kcal), dinner (+33 kcal, 704 ± 281 vs. 737 ± 338 kcal) and snacks (+30 kcal, 234 ± 246 vs. 264 ± 266 kcal). Resulting weight loss was 2.8 pounds (p<0.01). This study demonstrates that lunch meal replacement with prepared single serving meals, not part of an overall weight loss program, is an effective method to produce energy deficit resulting in weight loss over 30 days.

Supported by ConAgra Foods
Effect of fat claims on consumer perceptions about product helpfulness for weight management
Authors: Schermel Alyssa , Qi Ying , Lou Wendy , Mendoza Julio , Henson Spencer , L'Abbe Mary R
Published: June 2021

Participants from an online consumer panel (n=3000) were randomly assigned to 1 of 9 treatment conditions in a 3X3 factorial design for fat claim (no claim, trans fat free or low fat claim) and nutrition information (no Nutrition Facts Table (NFT), low fat/low calorie, or low fat/high calorie), for both a breakfast cereal and frozen meal package. Compared to products with high calorie NFTs, products with low calorie NFTs were rated by participants as lower in calories, whether or not the product had a fat claim. Compared to those who did not see a claim or NFT, participants who saw frozen meals with a trans fat free claim and no NFT rated products as healthier and more helpful for weight management, while participants who saw breakfast cereals with only a low fat claim rated products as less healthy and participants were less willing to purchase these products. When shown the NFT, the likeliness that participants would favour low over high calorie products increased for products with fat claims compared to products without claims. These results demonstrate that consumers use fat claims in conjunction with the NFT to inform decisions, rather than the claim alone. Thus, fat claims may help consumers, rather than mislead them, to choose products that are better for weight management. However, while fat claims may help with decision‐making, they have been shown to negatively affect consumers’ eating behaviours.
Plasma metabolomics biomarkers for caloric intake and dietary macronutrient composition
Authors: Kristal Bruce , Shurubor Yevgeniya I , Matson Wayne R , Willett Walter C , Hankinson Susan E , Stavrovskaya Irina G , Krasnikov Boris F , Marur Vasant R , Sniatynski Matthew , Porter Caryn L , Sheldon Diane
Published: June 2021

Excessive caloric intake [CI] and suboptimal dietary macronutrient choices are arguably the major environmental stressor in individuals living in Western societies. Unraveling the specifics of this inter‐relationship is complicated by the well‐known difficulty in accurately assessing diet in human populations. Our goal is thus to discover and confirm plasma metabolomic biomarkers for overall [CI]/expenditure, and for class‐specific fats (eg, saturated, trans), glycemic index, and for shifts between fats, protein, and carbohydrate as the major macronutrient. We leverage data and move biomarkers between rats (N~1000), clinical trials with defined intakes (OMNIHEART, CALERIE, N~ 350), and epidemiology cohorts (Nursesˈ Health Study [NHS], N~3500) with diet and disease outcome data (Type II diabetes, breast cancer). The intended applications are: (i) to improve assessment of nutrition in epidemiology studies and clinical trials, and; (ii) to develop and to improve personalized risk prediction based on dietary influence on disease. For example, we have used metabolomic profiling by HPLC w/Coularray detection to identify profiles that reflect caloric intake (CI) in rats and validated them across species for national level human studies. The rat profiles, without optimization, blindly ˈpredictsˈ questionnaire‐defined quintiles of CI in humans (r2=0.843), and reflects breast cancer risk within NHS.
Identification of an Early Metabolic Marker Panel and the Role of Individual Metabolites in Type‐2 Diabetes
Authors: Rein Dietrich , Nikiforova Victoria , Padberg Inken , Liebenberg Volker
Published: June 2021

Early detection of and intervention in type 2 diabetes reduces the risk of developing complications. Even though metabolic changes can be detected several years prior to a clinical diabetes phenotype their relevance in pathophysiology are poorly understood. Metabolic changes are likely to play a causal role in diabetes development and a better understanding helps identifying new ways of intervening with disease progression.

Metanomics Health GmbH studied diabetes associated early metabolic profiles in human blood and identified changes suitable for diagnosis and further elucidation of disease. We generated and interpreted gas‐ and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry based metabolite profiling data from 478 subjects at high risk of developing diabetes followed for up to six years. Data from broad profiling was analyzed by ANOVA models and hierarchical network analysis to associate known and novel small molecules in plasma with diabetes. Subsequently a diabetes specific targeted analysis was developed focusing on the most relevant small molecules (n=80). A minor metabolite was associated with type 2 diabetes for the first time. It directly appears to be involved in generation and accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts that are associated with diabetes complications.
Use of 13C‐labelled carbohydrates to trace microbial metabolism in the colon; light in the tunnel!
Authors: Venema Koen , Maathuis Annet J.H. , Steijart Marvin N. , de Graaf Albert A.
Published: June 2021

The aim of this research was to study the fermentative processes by the microbiota in the human colon using stable isotope (13C)‐labeled carbohydrates. The technology was set up in TNO's validated, dynamic, computer‐controlled in vitro model of the colon (nick‐named TIM‐2). Using Stable‐Isotope Probing the 13Cincorporation in microbial biomass was determined. Using LC‐MS and NMR, the production of 13C‐labeled microbial metabolites were traced. Microbiotas originated from babies, adults or elderly, and a range of different 13C‐substrates were used. Differences in production of the major microbial metabolites, the short‐chain fatty acids, were observed. For instance, the baby microbiota did not produce propionate on fructo‐oligosaccharides. Instead, lactate was the major metabolite produced by the baby microbiota. Appearance of label in minor metabolites such as glycerol, ethanol and several amino acids could be detected. In a pilot study, a nasal catheter was used to infuse 13C‐labeled lactose in the colon of 4 human volunteers. Label could be traced into metabolites sampled from the lumen of the colon and plasma, as well as in exhaled CO2. The technology allows for detailed characterization of colonic fermentation, a process which is still considered to be a black box, and therefore provides light in the tunnel of the GI‐tract. This research was supported by TNO, Top Institute Food & Nutrition, and Abbott Nutrition