bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BPGAP1 and Pin1 co‐regulate Rho, Erk and cortactin signaling in cell dynamics
Authors: Pan Catherine Qiurong , Low Boon Chuan
Published: June 2021

Rho small GTPases are molecular switches that regulate actin and microtubule cytoskeleton networks during cellular morphogenesis, motility, invasion and proliferation. Although these processes are also under the control of MAPK/Erk pathway and cortactin (a cortical actin‐binding protein that facilitates actin branching and polymerisation), it is unclear where and how the signaling of Rho, Erk and cortactin converge and are co‐regulated inside the cells. We recently identified BPGAP1 as a potent multi‐domain Rho GTPase‐activating protein (GAP) that not only biochemically acting to inhibit RhoA activity via its RhoGAP domain, it also promotes Erk activity and cell motility via its BNIP‐2 and Cdc42GAP Homology domain and the Proline‐rich Region (PRR). We earlier showed that PRR targets cortactin and endophilin towards cell protrusions and for EGF receptor endocytosis, respectively; both by involving their SH3 domains specifically recognizing the prolines 184 and 186 of the 182‐PRPPLP‐189 moiety. Interestingly, part of the PRR, 186‐PPLP‐189, which subtly overlaps with the cortactin‐binding site, is also a prime target of the WW domain of peptidyl‐prolyl cis/trans isomerase Pin1. Consequently, binding of Pin1 to BPGAP1 enhances its RhoGAP activity but it suppresses BPGAP1‐induced acute Erk activation and cell motility. These results raise the question on whether Pin1 could also affect the function of BPGAP1 with cortactin and whether this effect, if any, is linked to or distinct from Erk regulation. Here, we showed that Pin1 overexpression could enhance the binding of cortactin to BPGAP1. Consistently, such binding is significantly reduced in Pin1 knockdown cells. Furthermore, Pin1 overexpression also modulates the dynamic disposition of BPGAP1 and its impacts on cellular morphogenesis. How such process would involve BPGAP1 and Pin1 co‐regulating the activity of cortactin, in relation to its reduced acute Erk but enhanced RhoGAP activity in both space and time, is now being investigated.
Rab38 trafficking and membrane targeting mediated by a potential c‐terminus palmitoylation mechanism
Authors: Zhang Linghui , Lee Meng‐Tse , Lambright David , Huang Shaohui
Published: June 2021

Rab38, a small GTPase regulating surfactant trafficking in lung alveolar type II cells, contains a c‐terminus CaaX motif suggesting a farnesylation and palmitoylation mechanism similar to those of Ras proteins. Mutations to the cysteine residue (C208) and the upstream one (C205) separately or in combination abolish WT EGFP‐Rab38 labeling of the late endosome (LE) and lysosome (LY) membranes in MLE‐15 cells. Consistent with the palmitoylation hypothesis, EGFP‐Rab38 is found to extensively colocalize with ERGIC (Rab1) and Golgi (giantin) markers. However, EGFP‐Rab38 is not present in the Rab8A‐positive exocytic vesicles originated from TGN, suggesting palmitoylation targets Rab38 to LE/LB but not to the plasma membrane of the lung epithelium cell line. We have been working on a metabolic labeling protocol using “click” chemistry and fluorescence detection to elucidate the details of the farnesylation/palmitoylation mechanism. Supported by NIH 5T32HL007748 and P01HL19737.
Novel Phage Displayed Human GIP‐Binding Peptides Inhibit the Growth of Cancer Cells
Authors: Banerjee Monimoy , Zoetewey David L , Samoylova Tatiana I , Mohanty Smita
Published: June 2021

Human Glutaminase Interacting Protein (GIP) is a soluble protein containing one PDZ domain. GIP interacts with the C‐termini of its target proteins. Here we extend our analysis of GIP and identify novel peptide ligands that are present within several human proteins. The identification of these ligands for GIP advances our understanding of the structure and function of PDZ domains. In this study, novel peptide ligands that interact with GIP were found through screening a phage‐displayed peptide library. Several spectroscopic techniques were used to find the structural information and mechanism of interaction with GIP. Through mutagenesis, we found two amino acid residues within the peptides that are important for the interaction with GIP. Furthermore, we found that GIP and the phage displayed peptides can co‐localize inside human cancer cells. MTT results suggest that one of the peptides was able to decrease cell growth in a dose dependent manner. The insights shown here about these new targets of GIP will be useful for uncovering GIP's function and novel roles for GIP in cancer cells. Taken together, these data will help us develop small molecule cancer therapeutics.
A Combination of Low Doses of Curcumin and Gramicidin Selectively kills Cancer Cells that Express Multidrug Resistance‐linked ABCG2 Transporter
Authors: Rao Divya K , Ambudkar Suresh V , Mayer Michael
Published: June 2021

The ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) G2 (also called breast cancer resistance protein, BCRP) is a transporter that provides malignant cells with a mechanism to evade chemotherapy by developing multidrug resistance (MDR). This phenomenon has led to wide spread interest in developing strategies to circumvent ABC transporter‐mediated MDR in cancer cells. This study reports a strategy to selectively kill cancer cells that overexpress the ABCG2 transporter. The control vector‐transfected HEK 293 and HEK 293‐ABCG2 cells were treated with curcumin, the bioactive compound in turmeric, and gramicidin A (gA), a pore‐forming peptide from Bacillus brevis. The treatment of cells with sub‐toxic doses of curcumin, or gA had no effect on the viability of HEK‐control cells or HEK‐ABCG2 cells. However, the simultaneous administration of sub‐toxic doses of curcumin (2 μM) and gA (35 nM) selectively killed HEK‐ABCG2 cells and inhibited the transport function of ABCG2 as measured by flow cytometry, while HEK 293‐control cells remained unaffected. Consistent with previously published data, curcumin stimulated ATP hydrolysis by ABCG2, while gA did not have an effect on basal and curcumin‐stimulated ATPase activity of this transporter. These results suggest that gA enhances the cytotoxic effect of curcumin without interacting directly with the ABCG2 transporter. Taken together, these findings provide a potential strategy to target, in particular, those malignant cancer cells that develop MDR due to overexpression of ABCG2 transporter.
A novel protein engineering approach for investigating GPCR/ligand interactions
Authors: Witteveen Natalie Anne , Gooley Paul R , Stone Martin J , Bathgate Ross A D
Published: June 2021

Relaxin family peptide receptors (RXFP) 1 and 2, receptors for relaxin and insulin like peptide‐3 (INSL3) respectively, are G‐protein coupled receptors possessing large N terminal domains consisting of 10 leucine rich repeats (LRRs) and a low density lipoprotein Class A (LDLa) module. Ligand mediated activation requires primary binding to the LRRs as well as a secondary interaction involving the extracellular loops (ELs) of the transmembrane domains. The LDLa is necessary for activation possibly by a specific interaction with the ELs.

The project aims to identify residues of RXFP1 and RXFP2 ELs involved in ligand/LDLa binding by mounting them onto a soluble protein scaffold and mapping specific ligand interactions using NMR. We have produced soluble scaffolds containing RXFP1 and RXFP2 EL1 and EL2 and are conducting ligand/LDLa titrations for NMR analysis before residue assignment. Preliminary NMR results show peak changes upon relaxin titration with the RXFP1 scaffold suggesting specific interactions are occurring. Identified interacting residues will be mutated in RXFP1 and functional characterisation will confirm their importance for receptor function.

Understanding mechanisms of RXFP1 and RXFP2 activation will aid design of relaxin and INSL3 analogues for therapeutic use. This work is supported by project grant 628427 (to RADB and PRG) from the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia.
Binding‐folding induced regulation of the AF1 transactivation domain of the glucocorticoid receptor
Authors: Kumar Raj , Khan Shagufta H
Published: June 2021

The precise mechanism by which the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) regulates the transcription of the target genes is largely unknown. This is, in part, due to the lack of structural and functional information about its AF1 transactivation domain, which exists as an ensemble of largely unstructured conformers or intrinsically disordered (ID). It has been shown that transactivation domains of several transcription factors undergo a disorder/order transition upon interaction with proteins from the basal transcriptional machinery. It is interesting that the ID GR AF1 directly interacts with the TATA box binding protein (TBP), the critical protein that forms the basis for the multiprotein transcription initiation complex. However, the precise mechanism of this process is unknown. In this study we tested whether TBP binding induces structure formation in the GR AF1 such that AF1's interaction with steroid receptor coactivator‐1 (SRC‐1), a critical coactivator which is important for GR‐mediated transcriptional activity, is facilitated. Our data show that TBP binding induces structure formation in otherwise ID AF1such that its interaction with SRC‐1, and subsequent AF1‐mediated transcriptional activity is significantly enhanced. Our results may provide a potential mechanism through which GR passes its signals to regulate the expression of its specific target genes. Supported by a grant from NIH (DK058829).
Vitamin B12, Cognition, and Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measures
Authors: Tangney Christy C , Aggarwal Neelum T , Li Hong , Wilson Robert S , Evans Denis A , Morris Martha Clare
Published: June 2021

Background

Low total brain volume (TBV) and high white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) have been related to cognitive impairment; vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency has been associated with cognitive decline.

Objective

To investigate whether serum markers of B12 nutriture (B12, homocysteine, methylmalonate, cystathionine, 2‐methylcitrate) are related to brain volumes and to cognitive performance in a bi‐racial population sample in four Chicago neighborhoods

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of a prospective bi‐racial study of 121 older adults of the Chicago Health and Aging Project

Outcome Measures

Magnetic resonance imaging measures of TBV, WMHV and cerebral infarcts and tests of cognitive performance

Results

Both serum homocysteine and methylmalonate levels were inversely associated with global cognitive function; only methylmalonate levels were associated with episodic memory and perceptual speed. Homocysteine was related to WMHV and levels of both markers were inversely associated with TBV. The association between homocysteine and TBV was stronger among persons with hypertension.

Conclusions

Poor vitamin B12 status as evidenced by elevated homocysteine and methylmalonate levels may be associated with reduced TBV and impairment in several cognitive domains. This common, treatable condition may be important role in cognitive decline with aging.
The Effects of Cholesterol‐Lowering Diets with Lean Beef on Blood Pressure and Vascular Health: Results from the BOLD (Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet) Study
Authors: Roussell Michael Antonio , Gaugler Trent , West Sheila , Heuvel John Vanden , Kris‐Etherton Penny
Published: June 2021

Observational and clinical studies show benefits of additional plant and dairy protein on systolic blood pressure (SBP). However, the effects of a moderate protein diet rich in animal protein on SBP has not been examined. We hypothesized that a moderate protein DASH‐like diet containing lean beef would significantly reduce SBP.

Forty moderately hypercholesterolemic individuals (LDL‐C >110 mg/dL) were enrolled in a randomized crossover controlled feeding study. Participants were fed an Average American control diet (AAD; 33% total fat, 12% SFA, 49% carbohydrate (CHO), 19% protein (PRO), 0.7 oz beef/d], DASH (27% total fat, 6% SFA, 50% CHO, 19% PRO, 1.0 oz beef/d), BOLD (28% total fat, 6% SFA, 54% CHO, 19% PRO, 4.0 oz beef/d), and BOLD+ (28% total fat, 6% SFA, 46% CHO, 28% PRO, 5.4 oz beef/d) diets for 5 weeks with a 1 week washout period between diets. In addition to SBP, endothelial function and vascular elasticity via EndoPat were measured. SBP was significantly decreased on the BOLD+ diet (−4.24 mm Hg) compared to AAD. Augmentation Index (AI) was significantly reduced in participants on the BOLD diet (−4.1%) compared to AAD. There were no significant effects of the dietary treatments on reactive hyperemia index.

In conclusion, a moderate protein diet including lean beef improves SBP. The inclusion of lean beef in a DASH‐like diet also improves vascular elasticity. Supported by: Beef Checkoff.
Relationship between body mass index and perceived body size among African American churchgoers in Baltimore City
Authors: Ganz Ollie T , Pamela Surkan , Martins Paula , Summers Amber , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Perceptions of body image vary between different ethnic groups. We explored the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and body image among African‐American churchgoers. Participants included 139 adult respondents, 32% males and 68% females from 6 African‐American churches in Baltimore. The data was collected as part of the Healthy Bodies Healthy Souls study, a program aimed at preventing diabetes by improving diet and exercise among African‐American church goers in Baltimore City. Body self image, preferred body type, and healthy body type were assessed at baseline using a 9‐item scale of figure drawings intended for urban African‐Americans. We calculated discrepancy between the individual's assessment of his/her own body type to what he/she considered ideal and healthy. For participants with higher BMIs there was a larger discrepancy between his/her perceived body size to preferred body type (R =0.56, p <0.001) as supposed to those with lower BMIs. Higher BMI was also associated with large discrepancies between perceived body size and healthy body size (R =0.64, p <0.001). African‐American congregants with higher BMIs had a larger discrepancy between their perceived body self‐image and the body type they consider desirable and healthy, implying that such individuals may be motivated to adopt health behaviors to lower BMI.

Grant Funding Source: American Diabetes Association
Relationships between income, food expenditures and purchasing choices in African American churchgoers in Baltimore City
Authors: Graham Karlene , Martins Paula , Rikoon Amy , Mahendraratnam Nirosha , Frick Kevin , Rowan Megan , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Healthy Bodies Healthy Souls, a church‐based diabetes prevention program, will be evaluated in a sample of 375 non‐diabetic adult respondents, using psychosocial (knowledge, self‐efficacy, intentions), behavioral (diet, physical activity) and health (BMI, blood pressure, waist circumference) measures. Analysis of the baseline data on the first 138 respondents showed that over 78% have a high school degree and 73% have household incomes more than $30,000. Using the Chi‐Squared test, an association was found between having an annual income greater than $30,000 and monthly grocery expenditures greater than $180 (p=0.004). Expenditures on single meals at carry out, fast food, and sit down restaurants did not vary significantly with household income. Respondents from households that grossed more than $30,000 annually were more likely to purchase 100% whole wheat bread at least once (p=0.03) and fresh fruit greater than three times (p=0.045) in the 30 days prior to responding to the questionnaire. However, no association was observed between the purchasing frequency of high fiber cereals, multigrain bread, brown rice, and cooking spray. These findings can help guide future programs aimed at influencing food purchasing decisions in African American communities.

Grant Funding Source: American Diabetes Association
Depressive symptoms in urban African‐American churchgoers in relation to self‐efficacy for healthy behaviors
Authors: Surkan Pamela , Chen Lenis , Martins Paula , Flamm Laura , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Overweight and obesity are at epidemic levels in the US, with especially high rates in African Americans. Given the associations between depression and many health behaviors, we sought to understand its relationship to antecedents overweight and body mass index (BMI). Using baseline data from a church‐based diabetes prevention program in Baltimore, Healthy Bodies Healthy Souls (N=133), we studied how depressive symptoms are related to self‐efficacy and behavioral intentions. The ten‐item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms. As dependent variables, we created self‐efficacy and behavioral intention scales related to healthy eating and engaging in physical activity (Cronbach's α=0.54 and 0.40, respectively). In adjusted regression models, higher depressive symptoms were associated with lower self‐efficacy for healthy eating and physical activity (β= −0.3, p<0.001). No relationship was observed between depressive symptoms and intentions to perform these behaviors (adjusted β= −0.009, p=0.8). Likewise, higher depressive symptoms were not associated with participant BMI. Results imply that depressive symptomatology may be a risk factor for low self‐efficacy related to healthy eating and physical activity. Given the lack of association with BMI, larger prospective studies are needed to assess actual health behaviors and to confirm these results.

Grant Funding Source: American Diabetes Association
Post‐Liver Transplant Weight Gain and its Effect on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors
Authors: Stogsdill Gracen , Gonzales Dana , Hays Nicholas , Hakkak Reza
Published: June 2021

Objective

To determine if post liver transplant weight gain results in increased cardiovascular disease risk by increasing risk factors such as blood pressure and lipid levels after transplant.

Methods

Data on 69 patients who received a liver transplant from 2006–2008 at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Liver Transplant Program was collected by electronic medical record review. Descriptive statistics were calculated to describe differences between groups. BMI, blood pressure and lipid levels were evaluated to examine a correlation between the groups.

Results

Overweight and obesity were common after liver transplant with 72% of the population overweight or obese at 1 year post transplant and 75.6% overweight or obese at the most recent time point analyzed. Blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides all increased after transplant, while HDL‐cholesterol decreased. A significant relationship exists between blood pressure, HDL‐cholesterol and BMI after liver transplant.

Conclusion

Increase in blood pressure, lipid levels, BMI and overweight/obesity after liver transplant is common. Pre‐transplant patient education on the risk of weight gain, overweight and obesity, HTN, and dyslipidemia after transplant as well as ongoing follow up post transplant for weight management is warranted. Supported by: Department of Dietetics and Nutrition.
Effects of fruits and vegetables and dairy foods on platelet activity
Authors: Kirsten Hilpert , West Sheila G , Bagshaw Debrah , Most Marlene , Lefevre Michael , Hinderliter Allen , Kris‐Etherton Penny PM
Published: June 2021

Our past research has shown that a dairy‐rich diet produces an ideal intracellular environment (significantly lower intracellular calcium (Ca)i to magnesium ratio) compared with two low dairy/calcium diets. This study examined the effect of dairy foods on platelet activity, which is regulated by (Ca)i. Adults with untreated hypertension (n=16) were fed 3 experimental diets (5 wk each) in a randomized crossover study design. Diets included a dairy rich, high fruits and vegetables diet (D‐F&V; 30% fat, 7% saturated fat [SFA], 3.4 servings [svg]/d dairy, 9.6 svg/d F&V), a high fruits and vegetables diet (F&V; 30% fat, 7% SFA, 0.4 svg/d dairy, 9.6 svg/d F&V), and an average Western diet (AWD; 36% fat, 15% SFA, 0.4 svg/d dairy, 3.6 svg/d F&V). (Ca)i mobilization in platelets was measured after treatment with vasopression (VP) by flow cytometry. As expected, VP induced a rapid elevation in (Ca)i from baseline on all diets (p's < 0.01). Peak change in (Ca)i was 130% higher on AWD vs D‐F&V and F&V diets (p's < 0.05). Serum P‐selectin, a marker of platelet activation, was higher on AWD vs. D‐F&V diet (p < 0.02), while the F&V diet was not different from either. Taken together, the AWD appears to detrimentally affect platelet properties in hypertensive subjects compared with diets high in fruits and vegetables; and dairy foods may offer additional benefits.

Funding: National Dairy Council, GCRC of Penn State University NIH M01 RR10732
Impact of food environment intervention on household food supply: Results from the Baltimore Healthy Eating Zones program
Authors: Cook Micaela , Rowan Megan , Coutinho Anastasia , Lwin Julia , Shin Ahyoung , Christiansen Karina , Martins Paula , Suratkar Sonali , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

Low‐income African‐Americans in Baltimore City live in neighborhoods with limited healthy food access. The Baltimore Healthy Eating Zones (BHEZ) program aimed to increase healthy food access and improve youth dietary behavior by employing multi‐pronged interventions at recreation centers and nearby food retailers. Intervention activities, including point‐of‐purchase interactions, peer mentoring, cooking demos and taste tests, were conducted over a 9 month period and encouraged foods such as low‐fat dairy (skim and 1% milk), cooking spray, low‐sugar beverages, and high‐fiber cereals and breads. Using a paired t‐test, we observed no significant change in total household healthy food supply (n=83) within intervention (mean healthy foods present out of 16: 11.85 baseline, 11.71 post, p=0.784) and control (mean healthy foods out of 16: 11.67 baseline, 11.57 post, p=0.682) zones. Using a McNemer test, supply of 1% / skim milk significantly increased among both populations (control: 26.5% to 52.9%; p=0.035, intervention 18.4% to 57.1%; p<0.001), while supply of 2% milk significantly decreased for the intervention group (control: 50% to 32.4%; p=0.210, intervention: 63.3% to 34.7%; p=0.004). These preliminary data suggest BHEZ had no impact on overall household food supply among low‐income African‐American caregivers, but appears to have led to a small shift toward lower fat milk usage.

Grant Funding Source: The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
HUB City Steps: Impact of a 6‐month community‐based, motivational interviewing‐enhanced walking intervention targeting African Americans on blood pressure, anthropometrics, and fitness
Authors: Connell Carol , Zoellner Jamie , Madson Mike , Molaison Elaine , Webster Michael J , Reed Vickie , Wang Bo , Yadrick Kathy
Published: June 2021

This study measured blood pressure (BP)using an average of 2 readings, hypertension(HTN)/medication history, body mass index(BMI), waist circumference (WC) in cm, and a 6‐minute walk test (6‐MWT) at baseline, 3‐ and 6‐months among community members participating in a motivational interviewing‐enhanced walking intervention (n=269). 190 participants retained at 6 months were stratified by HTN/medication history (normotensive: NT, hypertensive taking medication: HTM, hypertensive not taking medication: HNTM). BP measures were compared by repeated measures ANOVA. Other measures were compared with paired t‐tests. From baseline to 6‐months, mean systolic BP was significantly decreased for both NT and HTM (5.0 ± 13.8 mm Hg (p<.001); 9.8 ± 17.7mm Hg (p<.001), respectively), but not among HNTM. Mean diastolic BP was significantly decreased in all three groups (NT: 3.7 ± 10.3 mm Hg (p<.001); HTM: 4.6 ± 11.8 mm Hg (p<.01); HNTM: 6.0 ± 10.3 mm Hg (p<.05)). Among all participants from baseline to 6‐months, BMI decreased 0.4 ±1.8 (p=0.008) and WC decreased 2.0 ± 14.3 cm (p=0.066). Mean distance walked during the 6‐MWT increased 6.4 ± 10.3 meters from baseline to 6 months (p=0.09). The community‐based intervention had the most impact on both systolic and diastolic BP among NT and HTM; however, HNTM also realized benefits in diastolic BP. Supported by: NIH/NCMHHD 3R24MD002787‐01 S1. Content is sole responsibility of the authors.
Pilot environmental assessment of carry‐outs menus in low‐income neighborhoods of Baltimore City
Authors: Good Michael , Lee Seung Hee , Hwang Diane , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

A high proportion of the diet of low income urban African Americans comes from conveniently located prepared food sources. However, little information is available on the menu selection of the hundreds of carry‐out restaurants located in low income areas of Baltimore. We conducted an assessment of healthy food options available in carryouts in the low income neighborhoods of East and West Baltimore using an observational checklist. We assessed 144 prepared food sources to determine their healthy menu score (# of lower fat and/or lower sugar foods offered out of 42 possible). The mean menu score was 9.2, ranging from 1 to 18, out of 42. Despite our overall findings, a few healthier food items were commonly found on menus, including 77.8% offering low fat turkey/chicken, 71.5% offering water, 69.4% offering diet soda, 49.3% offering grilled chicken, 47.9% offering a vegetable entrée, 37.5% offering salad with greens, and 26.4% offering cooked greens. These findings will be used to develop an intervention to increase the availability of healthy options in local carry‐outs by focusing on foods that have already been shown to be acceptable to consumers.

Grant Funding Source: Diabetes Research and Translation Center
Description of baseline customer survey data from pilot environmental intervention trial in low‐income neighborhood Baltimore City carry‐outs
Authors: Hoffman Vanessa , Lee Seung Hee , Feroz Qais , Martins Paula , Hamouda Mohamed , Hwang Diane , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

High rates of overweight, obesity and diabetes exist among African Americans. African Americans in low‐income neighborhoods spend a significant amount of money on and get a large portion of their caloric intake from calorically dense prepared foods. We conducted customer surveys (n=29) at two carry‐outs in low‐income areas in Baltimore City to examine customer characteristics and purchasing habits of healthier options available at carry‐outs. Most customers surveyed (79%) live within two miles of the carry‐out. Among the people who visited carry‐outs more than 3 times a week, 59.1% were overweight or obese, compared to 42.9% for people who visited carry‐outs up to 3 times per week (NS). Over half of the respondents (60.7%) reported convenience as one of the main reasons for coming to the carryout, and better quality (35.7%), taste of foods (35.7%), and lower cost (14.3%) were other reasons. When customers were asked how often they ate healthier options at carry‐outs, respondents indicated an average intake of two chicken sandwiches, one turkey sandwich, 2.4 servings of cooked greens, 3.6 servings of fresh fruit and 6 bottles of water per week. These findings provide guidance for developing intervention strategies that will be acceptable to the population and feasible to implement.

Grant Funding Source: Diabetes Research and Traning Center
Baltimore Healthy Eating Zones (BHEZ) intervention program improves food related knowledge among low‐income inner‐city youth
Authors: Gass Anthony , Shin Ahyoung , Coutinho Anastasia , Young Rachel , Lwin Julia , Martins Paula , Cook Micaela , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

The Baltimore Healthy Eating Zones (BHEZ) program consisted of a 9‐month intervention in Baltimore City recreation centers and local corner stores. BHEZ sought to increase access to healthy foods and positively influence psychosocial factors and eating behaviors among youth and caregivers in low‐income, predominantly African‐American neighborhoods. The study was evaluated in 71 African American youths aged 10 to 14 and their primary caregivers, recruited from 7 intervention and 7 control recreation centers. The impact of the intervention was measured by pre‐ and post‐ intervention surveys, compared by a paired sample t‐test. Intervention group youth significantly improved their food‐related knowledge as assessed by 12 questions (mean improvement of 1.1 correct answers, p‐value < 0.001), while control group youth did not improve their knowledge significantly (mean improvement 0.419, p‐value = 0.266). These preliminary findings indicate that the BHEZ intervention made a significant impact in improving the food‐related knowledge among Baltimore African‐American youths.

Grant Funding Source: The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
“Choice”: what we mean by it and what that means for obesity prevention
Authors: Porter Christine M.
Published: June 2021

Much public debate about obesity prevention policy, particularly in relation to food, centers on notions of “choice.” This research surfaces values underlying some of this discourse and discusses implications in the context of larger ethical and philosophical debates in public health. Through coding and discourse analysis of 105 stakeholder interviews conducted in the Northeast of the US, it identifies three main “choice” frames: choice as freedom, choice as moral responsibility, and the influence of context on choice. The corresponding dominant values for the first and second frame, respectively, are autonomy and personal accountability. Most people using the third frame also held these values, but focused on conditions required to enable people to be accountable for their choices and to make truly free choices. A small subset thought outside the frame of individual choice, valuing, as one person put it, a “social contract.” This paper discusses these results in relation to public health debates about autonomy/paternalism, agency/structure, and individual/group and concludes with implications for obesity prevention strategies that respect the values underlying these three “choice” frames. Support for transcriptions: Hatch and Smith‐Lever funds.
A pilot study of community gardening and its relationship to produce intake and food spending among rural households in Appalachia
Authors: Hopkins Laura Christine , Holben David H.
Published: June 2021

This pilot study examined the relationship of household food security status, produce intake and behaviors, health, and social capital among community gardeners in rural Appalachian Ohio in 2009 and 2010. Gardeners were surveyed annually (n=121), with preliminary results indicating a 41% response rate. Respondents were primarily Caucasian and female. The majority of respondents were food secure, but preliminary results indicate that approximately 18% of respondents were food insecure. Preliminary findings indicated that participants eat more produce (n=38, 76%), make better choices about eating (n=36, 74%), spend less money on food (74%), are more physically active (n=33, 66%), and have made new friends (n=37, 74%). Food insecurity was associated with eating more fruits and vegetables (p<0.05) and spending less money on food (p=0.05) due to the produce from the garden. Community gardening appears to be positively associated with both improved produce intake and decreased food spending among food insecure households, which warrants further exploration.
Effect of Carotenoid Supplementation on Plasma Carotenoids, Inflammation and Visual Development in Preterm Infants
Authors: Rubin Lewis P , Chan Gary M , Barrett‐Reis Bridget M , Fulton Anne B , Ashmeade Terri L , Mackey Amy D , Dimmitt Reed A , Hartmann E Eugenie , Adamkin David M
Published: June 2021

Dietary carotenoids possess antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and light‐absorbing characteristics. Lutein is also the major component in infant retinal pigment. Preterm infants represent a population in which increased inflammation and oxidative stress are associated with common diseases of prematurity. Infants (n=203) < 33 wks GA were randomized to a regimen of preterm formulas with added carotenoids (SF) or control formulas without added carotenoids (CF) fed until 50 wks post‐menstrual age (PMA). Electroretinography at 50 wks PMA was used to evaluate photoreceptor response parameters. We found plasma lycopene, lutein, and beta‐carotene levels were higher in SF compared to CF at hospital discharge to 50 wks PMA (p < 0.0001). SF compared to CF had lower plasma C‐reactive protein at 40 wks PMA (p < 0.001). Plasma lutein concentrations at 50 wks PMA correlated with the saturated response amplitude in rod photoreceptors (r = 0.361, p=0.05). SF group had a greater rod photoreceptor sensitivity than CF (LS means 6.1 vs 4.1; p<0.05). Results from this trial indicate that carotenoid supplementation in preterm infant formula increases plasma concentrations to levels observed in human milk‐fed term infants. The data also suggest a protective mechanism for lutein in photoreceptor health through light absorbing and antioxidant activities. Carotenoid supplementation may also decrease inflammation in this population.
Rapid method for measuring carotenoid and retinoid concentration in blood and breast milk for dietary intervention assessments
Authors: Burri Betty J , Turner Tami , Haskell Marjorie , Jamil Kazi , Jamil Maleka
Published: June 2021

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major public health problem in many developing countries. β‐carotene (BC) and β‐cryptoxanthin (CX) can be converted to VA and are important sources of this nutrient. CX appears to have higher bioavailability than current estimates and may be an unappreciated source of VA. We are assessing the impact of dietary interventions with foods rich in CX and BC on plasma and breast milk concentrations of VA, BC, and CX. We randomly assigned exclusively breastfeeding women to receive a VA supplement, tangerines, orange sweet potatoes, or white potatoes 6 days a week for 3 weeks. Concentrations of CX, BC, and VA are measured in plasma and breast milk at baseline and after 3 weeks. Due to the large number of samples in this study, we compared extraction methods, and developed a fast isocratic reverse‐phase HPLC method to analyze VA, BC, CX, and other carotenoids in biological samples. Run times were complete in less than nine minutes. Repeatability was between 1.0 and 5.1 percent (RSD) within and between day trials except for lutein and zeazanthin, that co‐elute. Limits of detection were between 1.3 and 15 ηg/ml. These methods provide efficient processing of large quantities of blood and breast milk for the analysis of carotenoids and retinoids. Supported by AFRI/NIFA Grant 2008‐01889.
Temperature effects on the carotenoid content of provitamin A‐biofortified maize kernels during four months of storage
Authors: Davis Christopher , Pixley Kevin V. , Tanumihardjo Sherry A.
Published: June 2021

Maize is a staple crop that has been targeted for biofortification with provitamin A carotenoids in an effort to achieve a more sustainable means of reducing vitamin A deficiency in at‐risk populations. Previous results in our laboratory suggest that the degradation of carotenoids during storage as maize flour is a concern when considering its effectiveness in providing vitamin A. In this study, carotenoids were analyzed from five varieties of maize stored at four different temperatures, −70°C for baseline, −20°C, room temperature, and 33°C to simulate the warmer climates in which these varieties of maize are grown. The samples were analyzed in triplicate by HPLC for lutein, zeaxanthin, cis/trans β‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin, and α‐carotene at nine time points over the course of four months. Baseline carotenoid concentrations ranged from 31 to 42 nmol/g, and as expected have shown greater losses in the room temperature and 33°C samples than those stored at −20°C. Degradation rates of specific carotenoids will be compared to determine if different carotenoid species are more stable throughout the first four months of storage. (Supported by HarvestPlus 8202).
Methyl jasmonate‐treated broccoli and prostate carcinogenesis in TRAMP mice
Authors: Liu Ann G , Berman‐Booty Lisa D , Clinton Steven K , Jeffery Elizabeth H , Erdman John W
Published: June 2021

Cruciferous vegetables are rich in bioactive components that may impact cancer risk, such as sulforaphane and indole‐3‐carbinol. Our objective is to determine if standard broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Green Magic) or the same variety of broccoli treated with 250 μM methyl jasmonate (MJ) during growth, producing indole glucosinolate levels 5 times greater than standard broccoli, would impact prostate carcinogenesis in the aggressive TRAMP model. Male mice (n=99) were randomized into 3 diet groups at 5–7 weeks of age: AIN‐93G control, 10% control broccoli powder, or 10% MJ broccoli powder. Diets were fed throughout the study until termination at 20 weeks of age, and no differences in body weight were observed between groups. Mean prostate weights were: 0.136 g in control group, 0.119 g in broccoli group (P<0.05 vs control), and 0.118 g in MJ broccoli group (P<0.05 vs control. P=0.99 vs broccoli). Histopathologic evaluation is underway and will be presented. The horticultural manipulation of broccoli to alter phytochemical concentration is a feasible approach to optimizing the potential for cancer prevention, yet optimal patterns of phytochemicals remain to be characterized.
Ambient fecal reactive oxidative species (ROS) buffering capacity as a function of geography and habitual diet: A comparison of rural and urban Guatemalan subjects
Authors: Orozco Monica Ninnette , Arriaga Claudia , Soto Maria Jose , Hernandez Liza , Campos Raquel , Solomons Noel W. , Schümann Klaus
Published: June 2021

Background

In the ambient state, fecal matrix has a powerful capacity to buffer ROS induction in an in situ assay system.

Objectives

To examine factors influencing the buffering capacity of stools across differing dietary habits, with emphasis on dietary fiber (DF), and between sexes.

Methods

Ambient stool samples were collected on 2 nonconsecutive days in 20 rural women (RW) and 20 urban women (UW), with concurrent 24‐h recalls, and on 3 consecutive days in 27 urban men (UM). An assay for Fe‐induced adducts of salicylic acid in mg/mL units gauged fecal buffering. Stool non‐heme Fe was measured by a colorimetric test.

>Results

RW consumed 2.5 X the DF as UW: 40±21 vs 16±8 g, p<0.001, but ROS generation was identical across areas: 0.077±0.015 vs 0.078±0.019 mg/mL, p=0.86. UM had ROS levels 150% higher than women: 0.20±0.11 mg/mL, p<0.0001. Fecal non‐heme Fe associated poorly with ROS production, r=−0.05 (p=0.71), and failed to explain sex difference in buffering capacity.

>Conclusion

High and low DF intakes have no influence on ROS buffering in women, but sex strongly determines ambient oxidative quenching in stools. The latter could explain gender disparities for certain intestinal diseases.

Funded by Hildegard Grunow Foundation
Effect of Adipocyte‐Conditioned Media and Phytochemicals on Galectin‐3 Expression in Rat Intestinal and Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Kim Jong‐Sang , Han Min Young , Lim Ji Sun , Hong Ye‐seul , Kim Hyo Jung , Sung Mi‐Kyung , Seo Young‐Rok
Published: June 2021

In a prior study, we demonstrated galectin‐3 (Gal‐3), a 31 KDa ?galactoside‐binding lectin family. This protein is reported to be involved in tumor metastasis and cellular transformation, has been found to be regulated by conditioned media (CM) collected from pre‐adipocyte, differentiated adipocyte, and macrophage cultures. In order to test hypothesis that obesity cause inflammation which, in turn, promotes colon carcinogenesis, we speculated that cytokines secreted by pre‐adipocyte, differentiated adipocyte and macrophage into conditioned media affected de novo synthesis of Gal‐3 in rat intestinal epithelial cells and human colon carcinoma cells such as HT‐29, HCT‐116. That is, this study was aimed to identifying cytokines (s) or phytochemicals which can regulate Gal‐3 expression. We speculated that phytochemical such as genistein, glyceollins, delphinidin, and daidzein enhanced the expression of Gal‐3 by CM collected from pre‐adipocyte, differentiated adipocyte and macrophage cultures in IEC‐6 cells and colon cancer cell lines. This study also showed that cellular level of galectin‐3 was reduced by some phytochemicals including genistein, glyceollins, delphinidin, and daidzein in IEC‐6 cells and HT‐29, HCT‐116 cells, suggesting their anti‐metastatic potential.
Improving the Food Environment in Baltimore City through Policy Change
Authors: Rowan Megan T , Palmer Anne , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2021

The food environment, including availability and price, can greatly influence chronic disease risk. Policy interventions have the potential to institutionalize and sustain improvements in the food environment. This study was initiated in response to a request from Baltimore City (BC) lawmakers to develop feasible criteria for improving small food stores. Our mixed methods design included a literature review of small store interventions (N=18), in‐depth interviews with program staff (N=11), and a structured survey with an expert panel of stakeholders (N=54). Using our initial findings, we created a set of 15 criteria, which were ranked by the panel for anticipated effectiveness. The highest ranked criteria included: 1) stocking fresh fruit; 2) using shelf labels; 3) displaying point of purchase posters; 4) adhering to food stamp and WIC guidelines; 5) stocking fresh vegetables. We then developed 10 key policy recommendations including: 1) the designation of “high risk zones” (<.25 miles from a school; >.25 miles from a supermarket and >40% of population below poverty line); 2) mandated adherence to criteria 1–5; 3) regular Health Department inspections; 4) license probation for noncompliance; 5) a graded incentivization program; 6) a stakeholder advisory board. These recommendations and the associated criteria have the potential to directly impact BC legislation, and improve the health of its residents.

Grant Funding Source: Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future
The Influence of WIC Changes on the Retail Food Environment in New Orleans
Authors: Rose Diego , Dunaway Lauren Futrell , Dornelles Adriana , O'Malley Keelia , Bodor J. Nicholas , Rice Janet C.
Published: June 2021

Policy‐makers are increasingly interested in the issue of healthy food access, but little attention has been paid to how demand‐side policies could affect the food environment. This research, based on a natural experiment, examines whether changes to the WIC Program food package influenced the retail environment of food stores in New Orleans. Baseline measures in WIC (N=51) and non‐WIC (N=88) stores were taken in 2009, prior to implementation of the new food package. In‐store observations by trained enumerators included availability and prices of WIC foods, and shelf length measures of fruits, vegetables, and energy‐dense snacks. In‐store observations have just been repeated, a year after baseline, in the same stores. Among small stores at baseline, mean shelf length of fresh fruits and vegetables (13.6 ft) and sodas (45.9 ft) was greater in WIC stores than in non‐WIC stores (7.4 ft and 36.5 ft, respectively). The mean number of fruit and vegetable varieties was also higher in these WIC stores. These differences will be netted out when follow‐up data are incorporated into difference‐in‐difference models assessing store environment outcomes. The major change to the WIC food package in the fall of 2009 offers an important opportunity to understand the impact of a demand‐side policy on the food environment. Such studies are helpful for balanced decision‐making on how to improve food access.
Subsidies Encourage Healthier Lunch Choices Compared to Taxes
Authors: Smith Laura Elizabeth , Schulze William D. , Kaiser Harry M. , Just David R. , Wethington Elaine , Sobal Jeffery , Cawley John H. , Wansink Brian C.
Published: June 2021

Some new efforts to encourage restaurant patrons to eat more healthy have encouraged the taxing of less healthy alternatives. The alternative economic strategy would be to subsidize the healthier alternatives. To investigate whether an economic carrot or stick was most effective, a study was conducted across three weeks of lunches with university staff and students. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions where they were either 1) taxed 20% for purchasing less healthy sandwiches or side orders, 2) given subsidies (rebates) of 20% for purchasing healthier sandwiches or side orders, or 3) assigned to the control condition. Those given subsidies made 23% healthier choices than the control condition. Interestingly, those who were in the tax condition ate 14% less well than the control condition. Follow‐up analyses suggest that taxes generated a reactance in individuals in these conditions where small amounts of money are involved on a limited time basis. These results suggest that perhaps – at least in restaurant situations – subsidies may be more effective than taxes.
Hypocholesterolemic effects of soyasaponins and soyasapogenol B
Authors: Smith James D , Salyer Joe , Esawarnanadam Satchithanandam , Lee Sun‐Ok
Published: June 2021

Elevated blood cholesterol levels are associated with the development of heart disease. Soyasaponins have been suggested as a factor capable of decreasing plasma cholesterol. Soyasaponins are naturally occurring triterpenoids found in soybeans and sugars are cleaved from soyasaponins in the digestive tract leaving the aglycone form, soyasapogenol B. The objectives of this study are to determine cholesterol‐lowering efficacy and bioavailability of soyasapogenol B and soyasaponins. Forty‐eight hamsters were assigned to one of four dietary treatment groups and fed for 4 weeks; 1) low fat control (LFC), 2) high fat control (HFC), 3) high fat diet with soyasapogenol B (SPG, 0.9 mmol/kg diet), 4) high fat diet with group B soyasaponins (SSP, 1.8 mmol/kg diet). When caloric intake was accounted for, the SPG group had a significantly lower total cholesterol concentration than the HFC groups (P<0.05). Compared with high fat control, soyasaponin and soyasapogenol B treatments were shown to decrease non‐HDL and triglyceride cholesterol levels, but the decrease was not significant. SPG had a significantly greater fecal excretion of soyasapogenol B than the SSP group (P<0.05). The soyasapogenol B group demonstrated a greater reduction in cholesterol levels due to the bioactivity of the aglycone form.

Funded by EPSCoR‐P3 Grant, Arkansas Center for Plant‐Powered Production, University of Arkansas.
Effect of chestnut pericarp on plasma and liver lipids, platelet aggregation and erythrocyte Na leak in rats fed cholesterol containing diet
Authors: Hwang Hye Jin , Kang Min Sook , Kang Young Hee , Kang Jung Sook
Published: June 2021

We compared bioactivity of 10% chestnut pericarp (CP) powder and 3% CP extract in hypolipidemic, antiplatelet and antioxidant effects by examining lipid profile, platelet aggregation, erythrocyte Na leak and TBARS production in rats fed 0.5% cholesterol diet. Plasma total cholesterol was significantly decreased (p<0.05) with significantly increased in HDL/total cholesterol ratio (p<0.05) in rats fed CP powder compared to the control. Maximum platelet aggregation tended to decrease in rats of CP powder and extract, but no significant difference. There were no difference in hemolysis and erythrocyte Na leak among groups, suggesting no antioxidant effect on membrane. Liver TBARS production was significantly reduced in rats fed CP powder and CP extract compared with the control (p<0.05). GOT and GPT were significantly decreased in rats fed GP power compared with other groups (p<0.05, p<0.01). In conclusion, chestnut pericarp that is rich in tannin may have cholesterol lowering and liver protective effects. Chestnut pericarp which has been inedible waste material can be used as a complementary and alternative medicine for cardiovascular diseases.