bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy: A Longitudinal and Multi‐tiered Model for Preparing the Next Generation of Biomedical Scientists
Authors: Chapa Irene , Hensler Julie , McManus Linda , Giuffrida Andrea
Published: November 2023

The Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy (VBRA) is a unique training program for high school students in the San Antonio area. VBRA allows talented high school freshmen (VBRA Scholars) to conduct a 3‐year long research project in biomedical sciences with faculty at the UT Health Science Center‐San Antonio. The VBRA experience incorporates personalized mentorship, guidance for preparation for college, leadership development, and awareness of career opportunities in science. VBRA applications have increased from 60 applicants in 2009 to 121 in 2015. A cohort of 20–22 selected Scholars is enrolled in the program each year. To date, 7 cohorts have been admitted to the Academy (145 students). These Scholars represent 44 different high schools, are ethnically diverse, (Hispanic, 46%; Caucasian, 32%; Asian, 13%; African American, 9%) and have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Academy, as 97% of them have completed the program. All senior Scholars have graduated from high school scoring significantly higher on SAT exams than their high school peers. In addition, 100% of the Scholars are attending 4‐year universities and 88% of them are pursuing STEM related majors (88%). Eighty‐two VBRA Alumni serve as role models for current VBRA Scholars and interact daily with their younger counterparts. The Alumni offer presentations on the college experience (College Connection) and continue their own professional development by serving as teaching assistants and lecturers. VBRA Alumni can further grow their research experience, technical skills and scientific knowledge by becoming VBRA Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (VBRA SURF); these Fellows work full time in a research laboratory during the summer months and participate in supplemental didactic activities. A key feature of the Academy is the contribution of ~ 40 medical students, graduate students and post‐doctoral fellows to the education and mentoring of VBRA Scholars and Alumni. These VBRA Junior Mentors are valuable members of the VBRA Admissions Committee, provide didactic activities and individualized training in specific laboratory techniques, and/or clinical perspectives relevant to translational research. In summary, the VBRA model represents a multi‐tiered approach to professional development in biomedical sciences through the integration of programs for high/professional school and college students with hands‐on research experiences, mentoring and networking opportunities. This model creates an innovative ecosystem that could be integrated or added to existing training programs to support the development of the next generation of biomedical scientists and professionals.

Support or Funding Information

Supported in part by the Max and Minnie Tomerlin Voelcker Fund
The Balance of a PUI Career. What is the tightrope you walk?
Authors: Benore Marilee , Provost Joseph John , Aguanno Ann , Vega Quinn
Published: November 2023

Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) and the larger, land‐grant research‐focused universities all share the mission of teaching, research and service. While the mix between each component is shifted to focus more on teaching than medical or research‐intensive institutions, the range of research, teaching and service expectations is diverse. Likewise, the factors at PUIs that add into tenure and promotion (PT) expectations are equally diverse. For PUI biochemistry and molecular biology faculty, an understanding of these expectations informs external evaluations, internal decisions on tenure and promotion and assessment of the productivity of a department. Unfortunately there is no source to identify the standards and trends of peer institutions. This creates confusion when finding the level of activities for peer institutions and diminishes the ability to communicate a clear way to move forward for PT and program evaluation for PUIs. Our goal is to begin to collect information on factors used in individual and program evaluation in terms of faculty research productivity, teaching assessment, and level of service expectation. We would also like to determine common methods to support probationary faculty in establishing evidence for their career progression. We will present the various expectations at a range of institutions, and gather information before, during and after the poster session. The work will be analytics of the collected data will be assessed and disseminated at the 2017 Experimental Biology / ASBMB Annual Meeting.
Women in Scientific Discovery or Medicine (WISDOM): Engaging K‐12 and Undergraduate Students in the Basic and Health Sciences
Authors: Woitowich Nicole Catherine , Pamarthy Sahithi
Published: November 2023

Women in Scientific Discovery or Medicine (WISDOM) is a science outreach organization which promotes the advancement and retention of women and underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) through mentorship. The organization was created and is run entirely by graduate students at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS). WISDOM participates in science outreach and education at both the undergraduate and K‐12 levels. The undergraduate programming pairs graduate or professional students in the basic and health sciences with undergraduate students interested in those fields. In addition to one‐on‐one or group mentorship, WISDOM hosts career seminar series and professional development activities for both graduate and undergraduate students. These programs provide young women with direct access to mentors and role models along with opportunities for networking. WISDOM's K‐12 outreach is focused on engaging students in STEMM disciplines through classroom visits, hands‐on activities, and field trips to the RFUMS campus. Through these activities WISDOM aims to create a pipeline that promotes undergraduate and graduate education in STEMM.
Building the Capacity of STEM Graduate Students to Mentor in an Informal Afterschool Program
Authors: Matias Audeliz , Ortiz Phillip , Elphick Gwendolyn F , Duncan‐Poitier Johanna , Lansing Jill , Groome Meghan , Breton Kristian
Published: November 2023

The United States is facing a crisis: Not enough students are being trained in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to support and foster economic growth. In response, during 2013–2015, the State University of New York (SUNY) and the New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS) trained over 100 SUNY graduate students and post‐doctoral fellows to deliver STEM content and mentor underserved middle‐school students in an afterschool program funded by the National Science Foundation. Many studies have examined how students are positively impacted through this kind of program, however, the impact of mentoring on the mentors themselves is not well documented.

Program training included teaching the graduate students and post‐doctoral fellows the pedagogy and skills necessary to teach STEM content through a 15‐week online course developed at SUNY Empire State College. The mentors also participated in weekly interactions with on‐campus program coordinators and were supplied curricula materials from NYAS. Mentors were then placed at a local school participating of the program where they mentor the middle‐school students. Follow up interviews and focus groups showed a positive impact of the program on the mentors. Specifically, mentors referenced increased confidence in their teaching skills and ability, as well as applicability of these skills in other areas of their lives. Furthermore, mentors felt they had a positive impact on the students in the areas of STEM learning and in motivating them to become STEMists after high school. Mentors’ attitudes about the value of mentoring experiences for themselves in future career choices and employment also increased. Additionally, mentors stated that this experience would increase their employment opportunities in STEM fields.

Support or Funding Information

This program was supported by the National Science Foundation under the collaborative awards NSF‐1223531, NSF‐1223303, and NSF‐1223284.
The Importance of Timing of Gestational Weight Gain for Infant Birth Size in Vietnam
Authors: Young Melissa Fox , Nguyen Phuong H , Addo O. Yaw , Pham Hoa , Truong Truong V , Nguyen Son , Martorell Reynaldo , Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: November 2023

While studies have examined the impact of total gestational weight gain on adverse infant birth outcomes, we lack an understanding of the relative importance of specific timing of weight gain. This information would be valuable for targeting interventions and informing counseling messages for women. Our objective was to examine the importance of timing of maternal conditional weight gain (CWG) during 3 key windows: 1‐ early (pre‐pregnancy, PP ‐ < 20 weeks gestation), 2‐ mid (20 – 29 weeks) and 3‐ late pregnancy (30 weeks ‐ delivery) on infant birth size (weight, length, head (HC), mid upper arm (MUAC) and abdomen circumferences (AC)) and risk for small for gestational age (SGA). Prospective data was collected on women starting pre‐pregnancy through delivery from the PRECONCEPT randomized controlled trial in Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam (n= 1436, included only singleton live births). We examined the influence of CWG for each window throughout pregnancy (from uncorrelated, conditional measures, independent of PP BMI) using advanced statistical conditional modeling techniques. The relative importance for timing of CWG and birth outcomes was assessed using generalized linear models, adjusting for potential confounding factors (pre‐pregnancy BMI, child gender, gestational age, maternal age, education, treatment group, household SES, and time from enrolment to conception). Overall, three‐quarters of women gained weight below the Institute of Medicine recommended guidelines (average weight gain was 10 kg), and these women were 2.5 times more likely to give birth to a SGA baby. Early maternal CWG, had the greatest association on all infant outcomes, followed by the mid CWG window. For infant birth weight, a 1 SD increase in weight gain in early pregnancy had nearly 3 times the impact on infant birth weight compared to the same gain in late pregnancy (111 g vs. 39 g). Similarly for infant length, a 1 SD increase in early CWG was associated with increase of 0.45 cm compared to 0.29 cm for late CWG. For other infant measures (HC, MUAC and AC), early and mid GWG also had a significant impact with the greatest impact in the early period. Early CWG (1 SD increase in weight gain) was also associated with a 43% reduction in risk of SGA (OR (95% CI): 0.57 (0.46–0.70). There is a need to target women before or early in pregnancy to ensure adequate nutrition to maximize impact on birth size.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Thrasher Foundation, Micronutrient Initiative & the Mathile Institute for Advancement of Human Nutrition
Maternal membership of community groups is associated with dietary diversity among children 6 to 12 months of age in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Kang Yunhee , Seo EunKyo , Kim Jane
Published: November 2023

Few studies are available examining the association between maternal social capital and child nutritional status. Dietary diversity, as a key indicator of child feeding practices, is suggested as a pathway through which social capital may influence child nutrition. Cross‐sectional data at enrollment from a cluster randomized effectiveness study in Habro and Melka Bello districts in Ethiopia were used to assess the association between maternal social capital and dietary diversity among children aged 6 to 12 months. The measure of social capital in the previous year comprised community group membership, having emotional or economic support from individuals, involvement in citizenship activities, and cognitive social capital. Adapted Social Capital Assessment Tool (SASCAT) was used to assess maternal social capital. Dietary diversity score (DDS, range: 0–7) in the last 24 hours among children were assessed using a 24 hour dietary recall. Linear regression analyses were used, adjusting for confounding factors (e.g. socio‐economic status) and clustering effect. Out of 1,704 mothers surveyed, 61.8% had one community group membership and 27.1% had 2 or more memberships; 37.1% received support from 1 or more individuals; 67.2% were involved in citizenship activities; and 34.3% showed high score of cognitive social capital. Higher DDS was significantly associated with 2 or more group memberships (β‐coefficient=0.41, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.74), compared to those who had no group membership. However, DDS was not related to support from individuals (β=0.26, 95% CI: −0.06, 0.57), citizenship activities (β=0.01, 95% CI: −0.30, 0.32), or cognitive social capital (β= −0.15, 95% CI: −0.39, 0.09). Mothers’ participation in community groups may improve child dietary diversity by promoting knowledge sharing in rural Ethiopia. We suggest that policymakers consider existing community groups, where mothers are easy to access and participate, as platforms to implement child nutrition programs in underdeveloped settings.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by World Vision Korea and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), South Korea.
Iodine Status Has Changed between 2001 and 2012 in US Adults
Authors: Lee Kyung Won , Cho Mi Sook , Shin Dayeon , Song Won O.
Published: November 2023

Urinary iodine concentrations (UICs) in the US have been reported to be stable since 1988–1994 at the national level in recent years although those in selected subgroups remained low. Further efforts are called for monitoring iodine status at the national and subgroup levels using multiple recommended criteria and biomarkers on an ongoing basis. Thus, we aimed to investigate iodine status among adults aged 20 years and over and subgroups by selected sociodemographic and health‐related variables by two different criteria of assessing iodine deficiency in population. We utilized NHANES datasets for the survey periods of 2001–2004, 2005–2008, and 2009–2012, and conducted chi‐square test and linear logistic regression while adjusting for multiple covariates. The prevalence of <50 μg/L UIC increased from 2001–2004 to 2009–2012 from 11.6% to 13.2% at the national level, and in subgroups of young adults, non‐Hispanic blacks, and non‐users of iodine‐containing supplements (all, P <.05). Over the 12‐year survey period, the adjusted odds ratios (AORs [95% CI]) increased for young adults (1.54 [1.11–2.15], P=.0007) and non‐Hispanic blacks (1.70 [1.15–2.52], P=.0078). Median UICs confirm women and non‐Hispanic blacks being in borderline iodine status. Risks for iodine deficiency have persisted in the US in such selected subgroups as childbearing‐aged women and non‐Hispanic black women. Recognizing the critical importance of adequate iodine status in maternal child health, regular monitoring of iodine status is viewed important for public health in the US.
Sarcopenic Obesity in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Effect of a Pulse Based‐Diet and Exercise Intervention
Authors: McBreairty Laura E , Zello Gordon A , Gordon Julianne J , Chizen Donna R , Chilibeck Philip D
Published: November 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age and leads to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, infertility and endometrial cancer. Sarcopenic obesity is a term used to describe low appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) relative to total body mass and, although most commonly associated with the aging population, women with PCOS share many of the characteristics associated with this condition including increased visceral adiposity, chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. We hypothesized that a pulse‐based diet (e.g. beans, lentils) would have a positive effect on body composition as analyzed by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Sixty‐seven women with PCOS aged 18–35y were enrolled in the study with 44 completing the randomly assigned intervention of either a pulse‐based diet (n=25) or the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC) diet (n=19) for 16 wk while participating in an exercise program. At baseline, the average % ASM was 24.2 ± 3.1% and 56% of women with PCOS were classified as sarcopenic obese as defined by having a % ASM 2 standard deviations below the mean for healthy young females studied by our group (30.4 ± 3.2%; n=14). Following the intervention, BMI was lower in both groups (p<0.001; Pulse −1.0 vs TLC −0.7) as well as percent fat mass (p<0.005; Pulse −0.5 vs TLC −0.8 %). Although there were no changes in lean body mass following the intervention, % ASM was higher in both groups (p<0.005; Pulse +1.0 vs TLC +1.3 %), suggesting that a pulse based diet is equally effective as the TLC diet when combined with exercise to reduce the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity in women with PCOS.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, Agriculture Agri‐Food Canada (Cluster Program) and Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation
The sensory characteristics of whole and puréed navy beans: effect of processing
Authors: Luhovyy Bohdan L. , Martynenko Alex , Chiu Teresa , Mather Kathleen , Boachie Ruth , Hamilton Andrew , Chen Yougui
Published: November 2023

The frequent consumption of navy beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is associated with improved nutrient intake and reduced cardiometabolic risk factors. While the consumption of whole pulses, including navy beans, is low in Canada, their processing to puréed products presents the opportunities to introduce puréed beans to variety of products such as baby foods, fillings for tortillas and similar products, special foods for consumers with age‐related disorders associated with chewing and swallowing problems, and other applications in conventional and functional foods. The objective of this study was to investigate the sensory characteristics of whole navy beans and navy beans purées obtained under different processing methods.

Methods

whole cooked navy beans were puréed using blade blender (BB) to crude purée and fine purée or using hydrothermodynamic (HTD) processing for 1, 10 and 30 min. Forty participants were testing six samples provided in random order including five purée products: crude BB, fine BB, HTD‐1′, HTD‐10′, HTD‐30′, and whole navy beans as a control. The pleasantness of the samples was assessed with 100 mm visual analogue scale while other parameters including taste, sweetness, acidity, bitterness, flavour, texture, mouth feel and aftertaste were measured with 9‐point hedonic scale.

Results

the subjective perception and rating for pleasantness, taste, flavour, texture, mouth feel and aftertaste were higher for whole navy beans compared to puréed products (P<0.05).There was no difference between puréed samples on perceived pleasantness, taste, sweetness, bitterness, acidity, flavour and aftertaste. There was no difference in perceived sweetness between fine BB and whole beans, and in perceived texture between HTD‐10′ and whole beans. HTD‐10′ resulted in higher subjective rating of texture and mouth feel compared to crude BB (P<0.01).

Conclusion

the methods of navy bean processing to puréed products determines their sensory characteristics. The processing of cooked navy beans with HTD technology for 10 min results in pureed product with better sensory characteristics compared to other tested puréed products.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Carbohydrate Fractions in Chickpeas, Lentils and Dry Peas
Authors: Haytowitz David B
Published: November 2023

Pulses, which include dry peas, lentils and chickpeas, have been domesticated since Neolithic times and comprise a healthy component of the diet. The Scientific Report of the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee acknowledges the consumption of pulses as having a positive outcome for a number of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. The report further identifies fiber as being under‐consumed and also indicates that pulses are good sources. Fiber is of particular interest due to its role in the maintenance of a healthy microbiome, which is increasingly identified as an important contributor to good health. Although pulses are included in USDA's National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference (SR), they were last analyzed over 30 years ago; no data on cultivar, growing conditions and agricultural practices were obtained at that time. At that time, only total dietary fiber by the enzymatic‐gravimetric method was determined; no values were obtained for sugars or starch. The aim of this project is to obtain and provide updated and more detailed information on the nutrient content of pulses and expand the data to include compounds of emerging public health interest. Samples from the 2014 harvest for dry peas (9 cultivars green; 8 cultivars yellow), lentils (3 cultivars green; 1 cultivar red) and chickpeas have been collected from four high producing states (Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and Washington).Samples were analyzed using accepted methods (AOAC), in qualified labs and under rigorous quality control procedures. Starch values in dried peas range from 42.5 – 49.6 g/100g, while in lentils values range from 40.4 – 48.6 g/100g. The most common sugar in pulses is sucrose and values range from 0.59 – 1.62 g/100 in raw lentils and from 1.47 – 3.62 g/100g in dried peas. Sucrose values in chickpeas range from 2.62 g/100g in small chickpeas to 3.62 g/100g in large Kabuli. Values for glucose and fructose are found in lower quantities, while galactose and lactose were not detected. Maltose was found in a few lentil samples, but was not detected in most. Dietary fiber is being analyzed by both the new Codex Method (AOAC 2009.01 and 2011.25), as well as the existing enzymatic‐gravimetric method. These new data will be disseminated in future revisions of the SR. Expanding the data on carbohydrate fractions in pulses will facilitate research on their role in the microbiome and its impact on health.

Support or Funding Information

USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council and USDA
Acute Effects of Lentil Fractions on Satiety and Glycemic Responses Before and After a Meal in Healthy Young Men
Authors: Fabek Hrvoje , Rajadurai Akilen , Arshad Muhammad Umair , Smith Chris E , Bailo Bibiana Garcia , Kubant Ruslan , Anderson G. Harvey
Published: November 2023

Aims

Lentils are a rich source of nutrients and are high in protein, starch and dietary fiber, which promote certain health benefits, such as reducing post prandial glycemia and subsequent food intake (second meal effect). However, it remains unclear which component(s) are responsible for these effects. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of consuming lentil preparations of increased macronutrient content (fiber, starch and protein) on subjective appetite, blood glucose (BG) and insulin before and after a pizza meal, served either 30 or 120 min later, in healthy young men.

Methods

Two randomized, cross over, repeated measures experiments were conducted. Forty eight healthy males consumed iso‐volumetric (300 ml) tomato soup alone (control), or with the addition of 20 g of one of the following lentil preparations: lentil protein (75%) isolate, lentil protein (55%) concentrate, lentil starch (60%) or lentil fiber (55%). Treatment consumption was followed by a fixed‐energy pizza meal (12 kcal/kg body weight), served at either 30 minutes (exp‐1) or 120 minutes (exp‐2) later.

Results

In exp‐1, with the exception of the increase in pre‐meal BG after the lentil starch preparation (p<0.0001), there was no effect of treatment composition. The lentil protein isolate and concentrate, but not lentil starch or lentil fiber, treatments lowered post‐meal glycemia compared to the control (P<0.0001) without increasing blood insulin concentrations. No effects were seen on pre‐meal measures of satiety; however, in addition to post‐meal BG subjective appetite was also lower (P<0.05) after consumption of both lentil protein isolate and concentrate compared to the control. In contrast to exp‐1, lentil starch resulted in lower pre‐ and post‐meal subjective appetite compared to the control in exp‐2 (P<0.05); however, consumption of lentil starch also led to higher BG values. The post‐meal effects of the lentil protein preparations on lowering blood glucose were greater after the 120 min than 30 min meal.

Conclusion

Lentil protein is the macronutrient that contributes most to the low glycemic properties of lentils. Additions of these, or similar preparations, to high glycemic foods may aid in post‐prandial glucose control.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada (AAFC) and Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (SPG), Canada, Reference 497290
Peer Mentoring to Prevent Obesity in First Year College Students: Get Fruved
Authors: Colby Sarah , Zhou Wenjun , Yan Wangcheng , Dahlman Sarah , Olfert Melissa , Barr Makenzie , Kattelmann Kendra , Leischner Krista , Mathews Anne , Shelnutt Karla , Vilaro Melissa , Brown Onikia , Kidd Tandalayo , Horacek Tanya , White Adrienne
Published: November 2023

The Get Fruved project is a peer‐led, social marketing and environmental intervention promoting healthful lifestyles (dietary, physical activity, and stress management) to ultimately reduce the development of obesity among older adolescents. College students are at increased risk for weight gain in their first year of college. This weight gain often tracks into adulthood and may be associated with the development of numerous chronic diseases. The peer‐led portion of the Get Fruved Project involves upperclassmen at four state universities (WV, FL, SD, and TN) working with freshmen to help them prevent weight gain through promoting overall healthful behaviors in their first year in college. Upper classmen were recruited in the fall of 2014 and took a multi‐university online course in the spring of 2015. Course content was developed by experts from around the country on the topics of healthful eating, physical activity, stress management, sexual health, effective communication, crisis management, environmental influences on health, healthy body image, substance abuse prevention, residence life and financial health, and leadership. A peer matching algorithm that was statistically predictive of friendship was generated by student/close friend dyads (N=97) taking a survey of 20 “fun” questions (e.g., What is your favorite color? If you could be any animal what would it be? If you won the lottery, what would you do?). Incoming freshmen participants (N=534) took the same survey in fall 2015 and were matched to the trained peer mentors (N=181) based on their responses; the match ratio ranged between 1:1 and 1:6. Peer mentors are working with their mentees in the 2015–2016 school year. Monthly data on frequency and quality of contact are being collected. Effectiveness of the peer mentoring component of the Get Fruved project will be assessed via surveys and interviews with peer mentors and mentees. Successful components of the peer led approach and the peer matching algorithm can be incorporated into future interventions to more effectively influence healthful behaviors associated with weight management in this population.

Support or Funding Information

This material is based upon work that is supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2014‐67001‐21851.
Demographic Factors Influencing Obesity Risk Reduction Behaviors among Chinese Americans
Authors: Liou Doreen , Bauer Kathleen , Bai Yeon
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this survey research was to examine psychosocial predictors of obesity risk reduction behaviors in Chinese Americans residing in the New York metropolitan area. A self‐administered questionnaire based on the Theory of Planned Behavior was administered to a convenience sample of 443 U.S.‐born and foreign‐born Chinese American men and women aged 18 to 60 years. Participants were recruited from religious and cultural institutions, representing a wide range of educational backgrounds and socioeconomic status. Nineteen obesity risk reduction behaviors were measured along with psychosocial constructs derived from the theoretical framework. Participants reported food behaviors over the previous month related to weight management, portion size control, consumption of high nutrient dense foods, engagement in physical activity, and stress management. Descriptive statistics indicated that the average age of the sample was 35.6 years. The majority of the participants were female (65%) with U.S.‐born individuals accounting for 40.4% of the entire sample. Regression analysis of obesity risk reduction behaviors indicated that 27.1% of the variance in behavior was accounted for by intention, attitude, and perceived behavioral control. For male adults, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control emerged as salient factors while attitude was significant for female participants alone. Subjective norm was important for younger individuals between ages 18 to 39 while attitude and perceived behavioral control were prominent for older individuals spanning 40 to 60. Nutrition educators and health professionals working with Chinese Americans need to address their pre‐existing intention and attitudinal predisposition to perform health behaviors conducive to obesity prevention. Social normative influences in adopting food‐related behaviors need to be highlighted in male and younger individuals.

Support or Funding Information

Partial funding was provided by Montclair State University's Separately Budgeted Research Funds
Perceptions, Beliefs, and Implementation of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Consumer Messages by Low‐Income Parents
Authors: Chea Molika , Mobley Amy R
Published: November 2023

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) contain seven key consumer messages related to the consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, water, lower‐fat milk, sodium, and portion sizes. The objective of this mixed‐method study was to assess interpretation, clarity, feasibility, and implementation of the DGA consumer messages by low‐income families with children ages 3 to 10 years old. One‐on‐one interviews were conducted with low‐income parents (n = 98) and were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for themes using the classic analysis approach. Participants were primarily women (97%) and from diverse ethnic or racial backgrounds (34% Hispanic, 33% black). The analysis revealed that the majority of participants perceived they understood all seven DGA consumer messages, and reported messages easy to implement. Some messages were reported as more feasible by participants, such as the message encouraging replacement of sugary beverages with water, while the message related to increasing fruit and vegetable consumption was the most challenging. The interpretation of messages also varied among participants, where they either recognized a call to action associated with the message (drink water) or, erroneously interpreted the content in the message (related to whole grains) or the intended purpose to change a food decision behavior (compare sodium in foods). While most low‐income parents reported understanding the DGA consumer messages, the interpretation of the messages and associated barriers may affect how they are ultimately implemented. Future research efforts should focus on further testing and tailoring of the messages for at‐risk populations to promote behavior change.

Support or Funding Information

Diet and Health Initiative, UConn
Examining the Implementation of a Regulatory Food Policy in High Schools: Experiences of Principals and Food Service Administrators
Authors: Jensen Melissa L , González Wendy , Frongillo Edward A , Monge Rafael , Chinnock Anne Jensen
Published: November 2023

Overweight and obesity affect 20.8% of adolescents in Costa Rica. The school food environment plays an important role in determining what adolescents choose to eat during their day. Regulating food sales in schools has proven effective in some contexts to promote consumption of healthy foods and restrict consumption of unhealthy foods. An executive decree came into effect in Costa Rica in 2012 to regulate the foods and beverages that are sold to students in sodas (competitive food stores within each high school), which requires that sodas offer fruits and vegetables daily and restricts the offer of products and preparations with a high content of sugar, fat, sodium, and energy. The executive decree was made without substantial prior discussion and advocacy with stakeholders, and whether it is proves effective rests with how stakeholders implement it. This study aimed to understand the extent to which the decree is being implemented, the response to the decree in the schools, and the reasons for their response and implementation.

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with high school principals and food service administrators of 20 public and private high schools of San José, as well as structured observations. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for analysis using an open inductive coding process.

Implementation of the decree resulted in a negative reaction due to economic losses and the restriction of availability of foods that are preferred by students. Revenue from sodas is used as complementary income for the school meal program, which places additional stress on high school principals, who are willing to promote healthy choices to students in sodas but also need the profit generated. Interviewees referenced inability to control sales outside of schools, and difficulty in implementing guidelines because of lack of training and not knowing which products do or do not comply. Sodas continue to sell prohibited products, reflecting inadequate implementation of the decree.

Policies within the National School Meal Program must change so that sodas are perceived as a service for both students and teachers rather than a supplementary income source for the Meal Program. Additionally, actions must be taken to translate the technical guidelines into practical information, e.g., provide a list of foods and preparations that do or do not comply. Likewise, periodic monitoring of the foods sold by sodas and corresponding corrective measures would enhance implementation.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by the Vice‐Rectory of Research of the University of Costa Rica, Project #450‐B4‐377: “Hábitos alimentarios de los adolescentes de centros educativos públicos y privados de la provincia de San José, Costa Rica.”
Characterization of Spontaneous Chondrogenesis During Tail Regeneration of the Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
Authors: Subramaniam Noeline , Jacyniak Kathy , McDonald Rebecca Paula , Vickaryous Matthew Kenneth
Published: November 2023

Many lizards are capable of spontaneous tail regeneration following tail loss. Although the regenerate tail superficially resembles the original, it is not identical. One of the main differences is that a cartilaginous cone replaces the original bony vertebrae of the axial skeleton. Here we characterize spontaneous chondrogenesis during tail regeneration in the leopard gecko. Following tail loss, the first sign of regenerative outgrowth is the formation of a blastema, an aggregation of proliferating mesenchymal‐like cells localized at the site of tail loss. Cartilage regeneration begins within the blastema 8–14 days post‐injury. Presumptive cartilage first appears as a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and type II collagen (Col2) positive condensation that surrounds the newly regenerating spinal cord. With continued regenerative outgrowth, this condensation forms a hollow cone‐like structure. Presumptive cartilage cells express phosphorylated Smad2 (pSmad2), indicating activation of the canonical transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signalling pathway. Curiously, early pSmad2 expression is not matched by TGFβ1 or TGFβ3 expression, indicating that a different member of the TFGβ pathway is involved in early chondrogenesis. Furthermore, the transcription factor Sox9, often described as the master regulator of chondrogenesis, is not expressed until several days after the first appearance of Col2 and GAG in the newly forming tail. Chondrogenesis is complete within ~30 days, yielding a distinctly cell‐rich/matrix‐poor structure. Our findings indicate that regeneration‐mediated chondrogenesis in the lizard tail is not a simple recapitulation of embryonic cartilage development.

Support or Funding Information

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Discovery Grant 400358
Contrast Enhanced Imaging Approaches for Studying Vertebrate Form and Function
Authors: Holliday Casey M
Published: November 2023

Recent advances in imaging techniques have spurred numerous, exciting new lines of inquiry into animal form and function. Among these approaches, Diffusible Iodine Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (diceCT) using Iodine Potassium Iodide (I2KI, Lugol's Iodine) has been embraced by vertebrate morphologists as a non‐destructive, inexpensive, high resolution means to visualize soft tissue structures of animals. Here I present a series of examples illustrating how diceCT can be employed to investigate the form and function of the musculoskeletal system of vertebrates, as well as offer new avenues for outreach and education. Gross morphological patterns of nerve, vessel and muscle topology easily guide later dissections, surgeries and other destructive techniques. Muscle fiber architecture can be tracked using 3D computational methods and projected into ternary space to better determine muscle resultant vectors necessary for the development of biomechanical models. Volumes, positions, and attachments of muscles, aponeuroses, cartilages and other soft tissues can be readily calculated for comparative morphometric analyses. Finally, 3D models of reconstructed soft tissues can be rendered for dissemination and web hosting making them key tools for anatomical atlases, educational modules, and public consumption. The relative ease of these methods guarantee their widespread adoption by morphologists while the resulting data offer abundant new insights into vertebrate anatomy and evolution.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by NSF IOS 1457319, Missouri Research Board, Missouri Research Council, and the Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences.
Community Perspectives of Health Care and Education Provided Through a Student‐Run Free Clinic in an Urban Setting
Authors: Phelps Josh , White Lanita , Parker Stephany
Published: November 2023

A critical element in promoting an atmosphere of patient‐ and family‐centered care (PFCC) in a health care setting is listening to the voices of patients and their families. Patients and their families are stakeholders in the process of developing and delivering health care and education programs. Through a series of interviews (n=18) guided by the tenets of grounded theory, this study explored community members’ perspectives regarding the process of care and education delivered at a student‐run free clinic in an urban setting. For the sake of this project, community referred to a collective of individuals receiving services. As each individual has a role in directing the impact of the delivery and reception of care, each interviewee was viewed as a stakeholder in the care process. Investigating this collective of perspectives on the delivery process of care and education provided an opportunity to gain an insider's point of view. Through initial and in vivo coding, links between data sources were developed. Two researchers trained in qualitative data analysis listened to audio recordings of interviews. Through this process, initial and in vivo codes were discussed and agreed upon with the support of observational field notes. These coding processes revealed common issues across patient interviews relating to perspectives on the process of health care. Regarding patient concerns, everyday stressors were commonly discussed including bill payment, medication costs, and adequate funds for eating every day. Community issues were discussed and included communal concern for children, neighborhood environments, senior service availability, abandoned areas including unequal distribution of city services and outlets to support healthy living. A general sense of fear and distrust with government and its services, and a feeling of living in the margins of service availability and forced constructs, such as the Affordable Care Act were prevalent among participants. Clinic services were viewed as meeting essential health care needs in areas where resources and services are scant. Patients were exceptionally grateful and appreciative of the humane and equal treatment received, as past experiences with health care providers in other settings were not viewed as respectful or caring. Patients’ views of services at this clinic were emotional, with tears of gratefulness and relief being expressed. Emerging as a pressing need is dental care; even those patients with health insurance were without dental insurance and could not afford care. These preliminary findings point to the need for expansion of free services to meet the needs of people who are not benefiting from the current system of health care services. Additional analyses will be used to further conceptualize data to develop salient program expansion and training acknowledging strategic, functional, and structural attributes.

Support or Funding Information

Funding supported by an MRE grant to JP.
Differences in Whole Grain Consumption Patterns by Ethnicity: Results from NHANES 2011–2012 and the Food Patterns Equivalents Database 2011–2012
Authors: Gugger Carolyn K , Bidwai Samruddhi , Joshi Nandan , Garcia‐Bailo Bibiana
Published: November 2023

This study describes whole grain (WG) intake across major ethnic groups in the United States. We used the day 1 24‐hour recall from NHANES 2011–12 and the USDA Food Patterns Equivalents Database 2011–2012 to examine mean consumption and major sources of WG in children aged 2–18 yr (n=2985) and adults 19+ yr (n=4878). Overall, WG consumption patterns varied by ethnicity. Non‐Hispanic (NH) Asian adults had the highest mean WG intake (1.3 oz eq/d), followed by NH Whites (1.0 oz eq/d), NH Blacks (0.8 oz eq/d), and Hispanics (0.7 oz eq/d). Among children, NH Asians also consumed the most WG (0.9 oz eq/d), followed by NH Whites (0.8 oz eq/d), Hispanics (0.7 oz eq/d), and NH Blacks (0.6 oz eq/d). Food sources of WG differed across ethnic groups. Among Hispanic children, ready‐to‐eat (RTE) cereals were the top source of WG (33% of daily total), compared to yeast breads/rolls for other children. In adults, yeast breads/rolls were the top source of WG, ranging from 34% in Hispanics to 46% among NH Asians. However, other sources of WG differed. Rice/pasta (22%) and oatmeal (10%) were key sources for NH Asian adults, whereas RTE cereals (20%) and salty snacks (13%) were main contributors for NH Whites. Oatmeal (12%) and salty snacks (11%) were leading contributors in NH Blacks, and RTE cereals (21%) and oatmeal (15%) were important sources for Hispanics. Given mean WG intakes were less than the recommended 3 oz eq/d across all ages and ethnicities, a better understanding of cultural consumption patterns is necessary to encourage adequate WG intake for all Americans.

Support or Funding Information

Funded by the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition, General Mills, Inc.
Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity was Associated with Reduced Blood Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in U.S. Adults
Authors: Kim Kijoon , Vance Terrence M. , Chun Ock K.
Published: November 2023

Evidence from epidemiologic studies has shown that dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as stroke and heart failure. However, studies on the association of dietary TAC with blood CVD risk factors in the US population are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the association of TAC from both diet and supplements with CVD risk factors among US adults in NHANES 2007–2012. This cross‐sectional population‐based study included 2,680 US adults aged 19 years and older from NHANES 2007–2012. Average daily TAC from both food sources and supplements was estimated from two 24‐h dietary recalls using the NHANES supplement ingredient database, the expanded USDA flavonoid, isoflavone, and proanthocyanidin databases. Top contributors to TAC were tea, antioxidant supplements, vegetable mixture, orange juice, berries and wine. Antioxidant supplement users had 1.7 times higher TAC than non‐users. TAC was associated with reduced serum triglycerides (TG), TG to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) ratio, total cholesterol (TC) to HDL‐C ratio and C‐reactive protein (CRP) after adjusting for potential confounders. Interestingly, TAC was positively associated with HDL‐C for men but not for women. This study showed that greater TAC was associated with improved TG, TG/HDL‐C ratio, TC/HDL‐C ratio and CRP. Further studies are warranted to confirm the finding of an inverse association of dietary TAC with blood CVD risk factors.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported by Allen Foundation Research Grant.
Red Blood Cell Fatty Acids and Incident Diabetes Mellitus in the Women's Health Initiative Memory Study
Authors: Harris William S , Luo Juhua , Pottala James V , Margolis Karen L , Espeland Mark A , Robinson Jennifer G
Published: November 2023

Context

The relations between dietary and/or circulating levels of fatty acids and the development of type 2 diabetes is unclear. Protective associations with the marine omega‐3 fatty acids and linoleic acid, and with a marker of fatty acid desaturase activity delta‐5 desaturase (D5D ratio) have been reported, as have adverse relations with saturated fatty acids and D6D ratio.

Objective

To determine the associations between red blood cell (RBC) fatty acid distributions and incident type 2 diabetes.

Design

Prospective observational cohort study nested in the Women's Health Initiative Memory Study.

Setting

General population

Subjects

Postmenopausal women

Main outcome measures

incident type 2 diabetes

Results

There were 703 new cases of type 2 diabetes over 11 years of follow up among 6379 postmenopausal women. In the fully adjusted models, baseline RBC D5D ratio was inversely associated with incident type 2 diabetes [Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81–0.95) per 1 SD increase. Similarly, baseline RBC D6D ratio and palmitic acid were directly associated with incident type 2 diabetes (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04–1.25; and HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.14–1.35, respectively). Cumulative Nelson‐Aalen hazard estimates of incident diabetes by baseline D5D ratio, D6D ratio and palmitic acid level are shown in the Figure. None of these relations were materially altered by excluding incident cases in the first two years of follow‐up or by excluding women with glucose >125 mg/dL at baseline. There were no significant relations with eicosapentaenoic, docosahexaenoic or linoleic acids.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm those of past researchers showing that altered blood fatty acid desaturase activities and/or palmitic acid levels are significantly associated with future risk for diabetes. Whether these fatty acid abnormalities are causally related to the development of type 2 diabetes cannot be determined from this study, but our findings suggest that measuring RBC fatty acid distributions may help to identify subjects at increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

Support or Funding Information

This study was supported in part under a contract with the NHLBI (BAA 19).