bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the educational experience of summer interns through a laboratory techniques bootcamp
Authors: Silveyra Patricia , Crowder Roslyn , Matters Gail
Published: November 2023

Underrepresented college students’ interest in STEM fields poses challenges, the most critical of which is having students stay the science course beyond their sophomore year until graduation. The Penn State College of Medicine provides annual summer internship opportunities for students interested in medicine and science careers through pipeline programs. One of the most challenging aspects for incoming summer students, particularly those coming from minority‐serving institutions, is their lack of hands‐on experience and knowledge of common laboratory methods and basic research techniques. To overcome these difficulties, we dedicated the summer programs’ first full week to introducing students to contemporary technologies, which would both improve their knowledge base and simultaneously impart instruction in techniques they may be required to perform in their laboratories. The goal of the course was to smooth the transition of summer students into their summer research labs and enhance student preparation and research productivity. The technologies were broad in scope and were explored five hours a day over the first four days of the summer program. Protocols were disseminated electronically, and instruction was provided by junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, some of which also served as junior mentors for the students. The nature of the Bootcamp's capstone experience provided available time to step outside of the laboratory and learn valuable concepts and common laboratory practices like buffer preparation, calculations, and general good laboratory practices. The summer bootcamp experience terminated with a student lunchtime get‐together in which techniques were revisited, technical problems were dissected, data were analyzed, and students presented and discussed the results of their mini‐experiments. Overall, the student's feedback was positive and the course was well‐received by both students and research faculty. The success of the program resulted in its extension to all incoming students in its third year.

Support or Funding Information

NIH NHLBI R25 HL103166 (M. Chorney, PI)

NIH NIDDK R25 DK078381 (W. Reeves, PI)
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Rich Bridge Program to Health Professional School
Authors: Taylor Mark
Published: November 2023

The Master of Arts in Medical Sciences (MAMS) degree at Heritage University, a predominantly Native American and Hispanic‐serving institution, is a one year bridge or pipeline program to graduate health professional schools. MAMS students are typically first generation, minority, late‐blooming, or disadvantaged individuals. Coursework taken alongside first‐year medical students at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences coupled with standardized exam preparation, service‐learning opportunities, and access to medical school faculty/staff provide MAMS students with the capability to strengthen their applications as well as demonstrate their readiness for professional school. The curriculum is biochemistry rich and focuses on the molecular basis of health and disease. Nearly one half of the coursework is biochemistry and molecular biology in nature covering topics such as immunology, embryology, microbiology, biochemical metabolism, genetics, pharmacogenomics, medical physiology, histology, and research theory. Additional instruction is provided in medical skills and the psychosocial basis of disease and treatment. Delivery of course content utilizes lectures, in‐class discussion, case‐based learning, small‐group learning, computer‐facilitated learning, and laboratory activities to maximize student comprehension of fundamental basic science principles. Since the program's inception in 2012, 100% of students have graduated, 49% of students have been minorities, over 90% of graduates have gained admission into a health professional school of their choice, and 100% of MAMS students in professional schools have remained in good academic standing. MAMS students have been admitted to medical, dental, optometry, podiatry, and physician assistant schools. MAMS students admitted to professional schools have achieved equivalent or superior class grades and board scores compared to other admitted students.
Partial Purification of Hen Egg White Lysozyme: A Short Laboratory Exercise
Authors: Van Stry Melanie , Austin Tyler , Brice Tambra , Fuller Kent , Gaines Gerald , Johnson Nayriah , Pollion Courtney , Taylor Jada
Published: November 2023

This laboratory exercise was developed as part of a protein purification and enzymology module for the Biochemistry Laboratory Course at Lane College, a small, historically black college. The overall learning objective of the module is to demonstrate the basic principles of buffer preparation and protein techniques, including protein purification, separation, quantification, and determination of enzyme activity. The objective for the exercise described here is to demonstrate the basic principles of protein purification, including separation of proteins by precipitation with salt or organic compounds. This approach engages the students in a research‐like setting, where they learn that protein purification is not straightforward, often requiring trial and error. While many procedures for the purification of lysozyme laboratory exercise have been described elsewhere, they are not suitable for the limitations of a short laboratory class time of one hour and fifty minutes. This protocol for partial purification of hen egg white lysozyme can be completed within one hour using relatively inexpensive reagents and equipment. The students first dilute the egg white 0.05 M NaCl. Next, they adjust the pH of the mixture using acetic acid, and complete the precipitation by diluting the mixture with ethanol. The students then separate the supernatant from the precipitate either by centrifugation in a benchtop microcentrifuge or by filtration through Whatman paper. The students are encouraged to modify the procedure to determine which method works best. In subsequent laboratory exercises, the students then analyze the degree of purification through comparison of their supernatants with hen egg white by quantification of protein concentration with the Bradford Assay, SDS‐PAGE and lysozyme activity assays using standard protocols.

Support or Funding Information

Lane College Division of Natural and Physical Sciences and Mathematics
Effect of Hovenia dulcis fruit extract on alcohol‐induced metabolism, inflammation and hangover following acute alcohol consumption: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Kim Hoe Jin , Park Min Young , Lee Yu Jin , Kim Joo Hee , Kim Ji Yeon , Kwon Oran
Published: November 2023

Hovenia dulcis (H. dulcis) has been used as a food supplement and traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of liver injury and alcohol toxicity. Hepatoprotective and antioxidative effect were investigated in vitro and mice, but not in human yet. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the effect of H. dulcis fruit extract on alcohol metabolism and hangover symptoms as well as alcohol‐induced inflammation in human. We performed a randomized double‐blind crossover trial in 26 healthy young men with ALDH2*1/2 genotype, who has low ability to change acetaldehyde to acetate. At each visit, all subjects consumed 50g alcohol after 30 min from placebo or H. dulcis treatment. We collected blood samples 5 times until 12h after alcohol consumption. Serum alcohol level, acetaldehyde level, and expiratory alcohol level were used as markers for alcohol metabolism. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), Lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP), soluble CD14 (sCD14) were used as markers for alcohol‐induced inflammation. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were used as markers for hepatocyte damage. Hangover questionnaire was used to assess the hangover severity. Serum alcohol, acetaldehyde level and expiratory alcohol level showed no difference between placebo and H. dulcis groups, indicating that H. dulcis does not have an effect on the metabolism of alcohol. LPS and sCD14 were also no difference between groups. However, LBP was higher within H. dulcis group at 12 hour (p<0.05). While the total of hangover questionnaire score had no statistical difference, the hangover severity after peak time was significantly lower within H. dulcis group (p<0.05; especially headache, dizziness, and weakness.) ALT was significantly improved by H. dulcis (p<0.05). In conclusion, acute alcohol consumption does not seem to cause dysfunction of intestine permeability lead to endotoxemia and H. dulcis fruit extract may have potential to improve hangover symptoms and alcohol‐induced hepatic damage.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning (Bio‐synergy Research Project NRF2012M3A9C4048761) and BK21 PLUS through the National Research Foundation.
A sex‐specific energy intake at breakfast improves the correlation between male and female appetite responses to a mid‐morning preload
Authors: Lefranc‐Millot Catherine , Hobden Mark R , Guérin‐Deremaux Laetitia , Commane Daniel , Rowland Ian , Gibson Glenn , Kennedy Orla
Published: November 2023

Knowledge of the satiating properties of foods is key in the context of obesity.

This pilot study aimed at providing data for optimization of future preload investigations with satiety as an endpoint.

We investigated in forty healthy adults how altering the energy content of a sex‐specific versus non sex‐specific breakfast meal, and the time lapse between a mid‐morning orange juice preload and the next lunch test meal, could impact subsequent appetite responses and ad libitum energy intake. Female participants consumed either a 214 kcal (n=10) or a 266 kcal breakfast (n=10), equivalent to 10% of recommended daily energy intakes for females and males, respectively. Male participants (n=20) consumed a 266 kcal breakfast. All participants received a 250 ml orange juice preload 2 h after breakfast, 2 h (n=10) or 2.5 h (n=30) before the ad libitum lunch test meal. Appetite responses and study meal palatability were assessed during the visit using VAS questionnaires.

A sex‐specific breakfast meal improved the correlation between male and female participants for appetite score measures, assessed using VAS, when compared to a non‐sex specific energy provision. Time of lunch test meal provision and time lapse between preload and lunch test meal did not significantly affect subjective appetite nor ad libitum energy intake.

This validated method will be supportive for future testing of nutritional ingredient with satiating potential such as dietary fiber.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by Roquette (France). The funders were involved in the study design, however they had no role in running the experiments, data collection or analysis. Catherine Lefranc‐Millot and Laetitia Guerin‐Deremaux are employees at Roquette.
Interaction of protease‐resistant potato proteins to the membrane proteins on small intestine changes the activities of digestive enzymes and gut microbiome profile in rat
Authors: Lim Jinkyu , Ma Jinsung , Chen Xiaochen , Choi Jaesun , Kim Sung Hee
Published: November 2023

Potato has been known to improve indexes on metabolic syndromes, such as, increasing insulin sensitivity and lowering plasma triglyceride level. In our previous studies, we found that the major potato proteins are resistant to the digestive enzymes. We hypothesized that the protease resistance potato proteins might interact with the small intestinal mucosa layer, then, trigger certain functional changes in the intestine. To investigate the functionalities of potato proteins on the intestine, the interaction complex of potato proteins to the small intestine mucosa layer was isolated by affinity crosslinking and purification, and identified by mass spectrometry analysis. Cell signaling changes by potato protein were analyzed by phosphoproteomic analysis. The identified interacting potato proteins were identified mainly as protease inhibitors. While, the counterpart intestinal membrane proteins could be grouped into digestive enzymes and channel proteins. Potato proteins showed a significant decrease in lipase activity and to increase in α‐glucosidase activity. Gut microbiome profile change were analyzed for the high fat diet fed mice with and without supplementation of potato proteins. The ratio of Fermicutes over Bacteroidetes and the complexity of microbiota were significantly recovered to those of nomal diet fed mice when potato proteins were supplemented to high fat diet.
Effect of Dietary Education and High Energy/Protein Meals on Lean Body Mass during Hemodialysis Treatment in Hypoalbuminemic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Rafferty Aaron , Wang Long , Parsons Tara , Gray Virginia , Reiboldt Wendy
Published: November 2023

Background

Low intakes of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals are common risk factors for malnutrition in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Malnutrition is a known predictor of increased mortality amongst MHD patients. Preliminary research indicates intake of protein rich meals during dialysis replenishes loss from MHD, but studies were limited to a small number of dialysis sessions. Measuring change in lean body mass (LBM) of MHD patients is one way to determine the effects of a nutrition intervention aimed at improving outcomes.

Methods

An 8‐week randomized controlled trial was conducted among 110 MHD participants (18 to 85 years, mean age = 54±15 SD, 48 males, 62 females) with serum albumin <4.0 g/dL recruited from DaVita Dialysis centers in the greater Los Angeles area. The intervention group (n=55) was given high protein/high calorie meals during MHD as well as outpatient nutrition education with a dietitian that focused on lowering dietary phosphorus intake. The control group (n=55) received low protein/low calorie meals during MHD and minimal nutrition education. Dietary intake data were collected from a 3‐day food diary or 24‐hour recall and meal intake forms during MHD treatment. Lean body mass was assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Independent samples t‐tests were used to examine pre‐and post‐study changes in body composition with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.

Results

No significant differences in LBM change (t= ‐1.10, p= 0.28) were found between treatment and control groups. Interestingly, the treatment group had an increase in LBM of approximately 600g post‐intervention and the control group had an increase in LBM of approximately 3300g. Though significant differences between groups were not found, it is to be noted that both groups had an increase in LBM.

Conclusion

This study explored the effects of nutritional education and the rendering of meals to MHD patients during dialysis, an area lacking in the literature. Limitations include inadequate access to community health professionals to interpret the educational information for patients who spoke languages other than English or Spanish. Additionally, level of education, work status, and overall stress may have played a role in outcomes; these factors were not controlled. Lastly, supplementary dietary intake during MHD both prior to and during the study was not monitored. Additional research is needed to further understand effective means of reducing malnutrition and monitoring the changes in LBM as a marker for malnutrition in MHD patients.

Support or Funding Information

Source of Research Support: This study was supported by the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, as part of the Fosrenol for Enhancing Dietary Protein Intake in Hypoalbuminemic Dialysis Patients Study.
Decreased energy density of the diet and its impact on body fat mass and long‐term patients in the Psychiatric Hospital Dr. Samuel Ramirez Moreno
Authors: Moreno Teresa Gonzalez , Mendoza Claudia Camelia Calzada , Llano Aidee Rivera , Hernandez Aldo Alex Ahumada , Diaz Maria Esther Valiente , Librado Luis Angel Altamirano , Zamarripa Carlos Alberto Jimenez
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTION

Food is a complex phenomenon determined by a number of social, cultural and economic factors, which is present in the daily life of all individuals, so it is a vital necessity. However, even when it is imperative to biological reproduction, satisfaction of hunger is very differently according to geographical location, the norms and values associated with food, time, sex, age and the accessibility and availability food, among other factors, at the same time, even though it is a cultural event like any other human activity, has a peculiarity: what we eat has an impact on our body, excesses lead to a number of chronic degenerative diseases, today more than 70% of the Mexican population is overweight or obese, a large percentage of this population has this problem due to bad habits. The energy density measures the amount of energy supplied food per unit weight. Consistent edible especially in processed products, which often have large proportion of fats or sugars generally have higher energy density that edible consisting of fresh food.

OBJETIVE

To provide low energy density foods to reduce obesity, Body Mass Index and Body Fat Percentage of long‐stay patients Psychiatric Hospital “Samuel Ramirez Moreno”.

RESULTS

decreased on average from 300 to 500 kcal diets provide patients from low energy density diets. The values of body mass index and percentage of fat mass in patients with some age groups reflect significant decrease until 6 months of treatment. The correlation between BMI and Body Fat Percentage decrease was observed. (R = 0.700) in the age group of 30–39 years old.

CONCLUSIONS

It was determined that the adjustment in the menus used for power users Psychiatric Hospital Dr. Samuel Ramirez Moreno had results up to 6 months, but only in some groups, and others were kept in the same ranges, showing it can not always obtain the desired therapeutic purpose.

Support or Funding Information

Myself
Anti‐inflammatory properties of ginger extract in an in vitro model of inflamed human intestinal epithelium
Authors: Kim Leeseon , Kim Jiyeon
Published: November 2023

Ginger is rich in phenolic compounds; the beneficial effect of ginger might be attributed not only to the antioxidant properties of the phenolic compounds but also to the modulation of signaling cascades in physiological and pathophysiological conditions such as inflammatory processes. This study assessed the potential anti‐inflammatory activity of a polyphenol‐enriched ginger extract in a cellular model of intestinal inflammation and the effects of ginger extract on tight junction (TJ) molecules by using cytokine‐stimulated Caco‐2 epithelial cells. To develop an in vitro model of the acute phase of intestinal inflammation, Caco‐2 cells were exposed to a mixture of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interferon (IFN)‐γ, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Responses to the mixture of inflammatory mediators were assessed by measuring the secretion level of IL‐6 and IL‐8 and mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (Cox)‐2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In addition, the level of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB activation and phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) were examined. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and expression of TJ proteins, zonula occludens (ZO)‐1, ZO‐2, occludin, junctional adhesion molecule‐1 (JAM), claudin‐1, claudin‐3, and claudin‐4 were measured. Ginseng extract and its constituents such as 6‐shogaol and 6‐gingerol improved the inflammatory responses by decreasing NF‐κB activation and MAPK phosphorylation. It also significantly ameliorated iNOS and Cox‐2 mRNA expression levels. Ginger extract increased the TEER, indicating increased TJ integrity, and upregulated the mRNA expression levels of TJ proteins. These results show that ginger extract may be developed as a functional supplement to maintain gastrointestinal health.

Support or Funding Information
Technological and functional attributes of millet and wheat flour blends; an approach to produce gluten free cookies
Authors: Alamri Mohammed S
Published: November 2023

Millet flour (either water or alkali washed) was replaced with wheat flour at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels. Objectives of the research were to characterize the flour blends for their technical properties and to produce cookies with less or no gluten contents. All types of flour blends were evaluated for their water holding capacities and pasting properties. The cookies were baked and evaluated for their textural and physical attributes. Inclusion of millet flour (both types) in wheat flour resulted in significant reduction in peak and final viscosities while setback viscosities were affected non significantly. Pasting temperature was increased from 65°C (100% wheat flour) to 91°C (100% millet flour). Water holding capacity of pure wheat flour was higher (75%) as compared to pure water washed millet flour (61%) and pure alkali washed millet flour (67%). Cookies hardness was reduced in the presence of millet flour. Hardness of the cookies prepared form pure wheat flour was 7497 grams which was gradually reduced with higher levels of millet flour (4000 grams). Fracturability values of cookies with higher millet flour were higher as compared to control cookies (prepared from 100% wheat flour). Cookies prepared from blends having more that 50% millet flour were not much liked by sensory panelists. Overall, it can be concluded that good quality, low gluten cookies can be prepared by 50% replacement of wheat flour with millet flour.

Support or Funding Information

Research Center at college of Food Sciences and Agricultural
24‐weeks exposure of oxidized tyrosine products is associated with apoptosis of pancreatic β cells in SD rats
Authors: Ding Yinyi , Li Zhuqing , Zhao Qi , Ran Yumei , Shi Yonghui , Le Guowei
Published: November 2023

Oxidative production of protein oxidation is reported to be associated with diabetes mellitus and other metabolic syndrome. SD male rats were divided into 4 groups (n=8). The CON group was fed a standard diet. The Tyr group received standard diet together with 0.4% (w/w) tyrosine. The OTP 1 group received standard diet together with 0.4% (w/w) OTPs. The OTP 2 group received standard diet together with 0.8% (w/w) OTPs. Our results showed that oral OTPs contributed to hyperglycemia and hypoinsulinemia. qRT‐PCR analysis indicated OTPs induced down‐regulation of insulin synthesis related genes’ mRNA level (PDX‐1, MafA, Gck, Glut2, CREB). OTPs also triggered apoptosis in pancreas by changing the anti‐/pro‐apoptosis genes’ mRNA level (Bcl‐2, Bax, Caspase 3, Caspase 9). Moreover, histopathological examination (HE‐staining and TUNEL staining) demonstrated the pancreatic β cells death. Together with all the data above, we suggested that dietary oxidized tyrosine products might induce bio‐function loss of insulin secretion by causing apoptosis of pancreatic β cells, and it could be a potential risk factor of type 1 diabetes.

Support or Funding Information

This work was supported by 12th Five‐year Plan for Science and Technology Development of China (No. 2012BAD33B05) and Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Providence (No. BK20140147).
Ex vivo Analysis of Chorioallantoic Fusion Shows that TMED2 is Required in the Chorion for Normal Placental Development
Authors: Hou Wenyang , Jerome‐Majewska Loydie Anne
Published: November 2023

Development of the labyrinth layer of the mouse placenta proceeds rapidly after a process called chorioallantoic fusion. As a consequence of chorioallantoic fusion the chorion and allantois attach and a subset of chorionic trophoblast cells differentiate into syncytiotrophoblast. Chorioallantoic fusion and subsequent events remains poorly described, partly due to difficulties in ex vivo analysis of the placenta. We report conditions for ex vivo culture of the developing murine placenta and preliminary analysis of placental development in Tmed2 homozygous mutant embryos. Anti‐mesometrial halves of decidua containing pre‐attachment chorions were cultured alone or with explants of allantoides from stage‐matched embryos. Histology, confocal and immunofluorescence microscopy were used for morphological analysis. In situ hybridization and qRT‐PCR were used for molecular analysis. Wildtype Explants cultured without an allantois proliferated with no morphological or molecular initiation of labyrinth layer formation. However, chorions of wildtype explants from eGFP positive embryos co‐cultured with stage‐matched wildtype allantoides from eGFP negative embryos or vice versa remained associated, with rare mixing of eGFP positive and negative cells after 12 hours of culture. By 24 hours, a mosaic pattern of eGFP positive and negative cells was found, with increased proliferation in the allantoic region and branching morphogenesis in the chorionic region. In addition, although expression of the syncytiotrophoblast (SynT) cell type‐II marker Gcm1 increased over culture time, expression of the SynT‐I marker, Syncytin A, decreased and expression of the spongiotrophoblast cell marker Tpbpα was only maintained in explants co‐cultured with an allantois. Recombination of Tmed2 homozygous mutant explants from eGFP positive embryos with wildtype allantoides of eGFP negative embryos, and vice versa, suggest that Tmed2 is required in the chorion for initiation of trophoblast differentiation. In addition, increased cell death was found in tissues from Tmed2 homozygous mutant embryos. Our data show that chorioallantoic fusion and events associated with initiation of labyrinth layer formation can be modeled ex vivo, and reveal a previously unsuspected requirement for chorioallantoic fusion for Tpbpα expression. Our data further suggest that TMED2 is required cell‐autonomously in he chorion for Trophoblast differentiation and cell survival.

Support or Funding Information

NSERC grant number 214976
Increasing dietary nitrate has no effects on bone loss in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Conley Melissa N. , Iwaniec Urszula , Hord Norman
Published: November 2023

Scope

Evidence suggests a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduce bone loss in older adults, although the specific compounds responsible are not known. The objective of the present study was to investigate the capability of dietary nitrate, a component in leafy green vegetables, to reduce bone turnover and loss in an ovariectomized rat model.

Methods and results

Six‐month‐old, female Sprague Dawley rats either sham‐operated (sham) and fed TD.2018 diet (control) or ovariectomized (OVX) were fed either the control diet with no added nitrate, control diet plus 0.1 mmol nitrate/kg bw/day, or 1.0 mmol nitrate/kg bw/day corresponding to OVX control, low‐ (LDN) and high‐ (HDN) dose nitrate, respectively, for three weeks. Serum bone turnover markers (i.e. collagen type 1 cross‐linked C‐telopeptide (CTX) and osteocalcin), bone mass, bone mineral density, histomorphometric parameters, and bone quality parameters were examined. OVX resulted in increased bone turnover and cancellous bone loss. Three weeks of LDN or HDN supplementation had no beneficial effect on the skeleton of an ovariectomized rat model of bone loss.

Conclusions

These in vivo data indicate dietary nitrate does not slow bone turnover and loss in an OVX rat model of osteoporosis.

Support or Funding Information: This work was funded in part by the OSU Environmental Health Sciences Core Pilot Project Grant Program. M.C. is supported by a NSF Interdisciplinary Graduate Education Research Training Fellowship.
Seapolynol attenuates lipid accumulation during adipocyte differentiation in 3T3‐L1 and decreases body fat accumulation in vivo
Authors: Kim Kui‐Jin , Song Ji‐Hyeon , Koh Eun‐Jung , Choi Jia , Lee Yeon‐Joo , Hwang Ji‐Hyun , Seo Young‐Jin , Lee Boo‐Yong
Published: November 2023

Seapolynol (SN) is a polyphenol mixture extracted from Ecklonia cava A number studies suggest SN regulates lipid accumulation in vitro. However, the molecular mechanism of SN on fat accumulation in vitro and in vivo has still not fully understood yet. In this study, we evaluated the effects of SN on lipid accumulation in adipocytes, zebrafish, and mice. SN significantly inhibited lipid accumulation in three experimental models by decreasing adipogenic factors. Triglyceride synthetic enzymes such as diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) and GPAT3 were also down‐regulated by SN in 3T3‐L1. In addition, SN inhibited the expression of Krueppel‐like factor 4 (KLF4), KLF5, CCAAT‐enhancer‐binding protein β (C/EBPβ), C/EBPα, and Protein C‐ets‐2 (ETS2), while SN increase the expression of KLF2 in 3T3‐L1. These genes are associated with the mitotic clonal expansion (MCE), which is correlated with cell cycle. Interestingly, SN repressed the progression of cell cycle through the regulation of cyclin A, cyclinD, and pRb, but not p27. Moreover, SN dramatically decreased fat accumulation in high fat diet induced obese mouse or zebrafish model In conclusion, we showed that SN inhibited lipid accumulation in various models, including adipocyte cell line, mouse, and zebrafish. Our findings suggest that SN inhibits early adipogenic processes by suppressing the MCE stage via cell cycle arrest and its downstream signaling pathways. Our results also indicate SN may be useful in the prevention of obesity.
Anti‐diabetic effect of Seapolynol™ in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes and C57BL/KsJ‐db/db mice
Authors: Lee Yeon‐Joo , Choi Jia , Koh Eun‐Jeong , Hwang Ji‐Hyun , Seo Young‐Jin , Song Ji‐Hyeon , Lee Boo‐Yong
Published: November 2023

Seapolynol™ (SN), a complex of marine polyphenol extracts, is produced in brown algae Ecklonia cava. The Brown algae has been demonstrated that it has anti‐oxidant, anti‐bacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐carcinogenic activity in vitro and in vivo. Also, SN have been reported to possess anti‐hyperlipidemic and anti‐hypercholesterolemia, anti‐obesity and anti‐diabetic activity. But, in type 2 diabetes, the mechanisms of action by SN remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of SN on insulin resistance. To test this, fully confluent preadipocytes were induced by MDI with SN (25, 50, 100 μM) for 8 days. Growth medium was changed every 2 days with SN (25, 50, 100 μM) and insulin. On day 8, differentiated cells were harvested and measured using Western blot analysis with specific antibodies. Results were evaluated by ANOVA and Duncan's test (p<0.05). (CON; control, fully differentiated cells, ND; nondifferentiation, preadipocyte, MDI; differentiation cocktail (IBMX (isobutylmethylxanthine) + dexamethasone + insulin). Male db/db mice were divided into four groups receiving SN (60, 150 mg/kgBW/day), rosiglitazone (10 mg/kgBW/day), or vehicle with chow diet for 6 weeks. Consistent with these observations, in 3T3‐L1 and in mice, the expression of insulin signaling such as PI3K and Glut4 was increased in SN supplement group. These results demonstrate that SN improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes and in C57BL/KsJ‐db/db mice.
Dietary supplementation of Walnuts could reduce MPP+ induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH‐SY 5Y cells
Authors: Essa Musthafa Mohamed , Al‐Adawi Samir , Manivasagam Thamilarasan , Guiilemin Gilles J , Thenmozhi Arokiasamy Justin
Published: November 2023

Objective

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction mediated neuronal apoptosis is reported to play a major role in the pathology of Parkinson's disease. Walnuts are able to offer protection to neurodegenerative disease models and rich in natural antioxidants. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of walnut extract against 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+) induced neurotoxicity in SH‐SY‐5Y cell lines.

Methods

The effect of Walnut extract on MPP+ induced cell viability (MTT ‐ 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazoliumbromide assay), membrane damage ‐(lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), oxidative stress (levels of ROS, nitric oxide and GSH and activities of SOD and catalase), mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis (activity of caspase 3 and protein expressions of cyt. c, Bax and Bcl‐2) were measured.

Results

Our results showed that walnuts extract could be able to reduce the neurotoxicity of MPP+ and offer neuroprotection in vitro.

Conclusion

This protective effect of walnuts might be mediated by its potent antioxidant properties. However, further research is necessary to isolate active compounds and performing preclinical and clinical studies to confirm the neuroprotective effects of walnuts in PD.

Support or Funding Information

The support provided by Internal grant from CAMS, Sultan Qaboos University (IG/AGR/FOOD/14/01) is highly acknowledged.
Bone Geometry and Trabecular and Cortical Microarchitecture are Altered by Type 2 Diabetes, but not Insulin Resistance, in the Hyperphagic OLETF Rat
Authors: Dirkes Rebecca K. , Ortinau Laura C. , Richard Matthew W. , Linden Melissa A. , Rector R. Scott , Hinton Pamela S.
Published: November 2023

Recently, fragility fracture has been added to the list of type 2 diabetes (T2D) complications. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of insulin resistance (IR) and T2D on bone outcomes using the hyperphagic Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rat model of T2D. Long‐Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) and calorically restricted (CR; ~30% reduction vs. OLETF) OLETF rats weight‐matched to the LETO controls were used as lean, normoglycemic controls. The skeletal effects of IR and T2D were evaluated in 20‐ and 40‐week old male OLETF rats. Femur geometry and trabecular and cortical microarchitecture were analyzed using mCT. Cortical bone strength was analyzed by torsional loading of the femur to failure. The effects of IR and T2D on bone outcomes were compared using a two‐way (group, age) ANOVA; body weight (BW) was included as a covariate for body‐size‐dependent outcomes. As expected, the hyperphagic OLETF rats had significantly greater BW than controls. Blood glucose and insulin confirmed that OLETF rats were hyperglycemic and hyperinsulinemic at 20 weeks and at 40 weeks were hypoinsulinemic due to β‐cell dysfunction. At 20 weeks, only the cortical‐to‐total area ratio (Ct.Ar/Tt.Ar) was greater in IR OLETF versus CR controls. However, at 40 weeks bone geometry, microarchitecture, and biomechanical properties differed between OLETF rats and LETO and CR controls. OLETF rats had significantly shorter femur length than LETO and CR controls. Total cross‐sectional area and cortical area were greater in T2D OLETF rats versus LETO and CR controls. Ct.Ar/Tt.Ar and polar moment of inertia were greater in OLETF compared with CR. OLETF rats showed a greater increase in trabecular spacing and greater decreases in connectivity density from 20 to 40 weeks compared with LETO and CR controls; at 40 weeks T2D OLETF rats had reduced percent bone volume. T2D OLETF rats did not show the age‐related decline in torsional stiffness (Ks) observed in controls. Relative to CR, OLETF rats had a greater decline in ultimate tensile strength (Su), and at 40 weeks OLETF rats had reduced shear modulus of elasticity (G). In summary, bone geometry, trabecular and cortical microarchitecture, and biomechanical properties are altered by T2D, but not IR, in the hyperphagic OLETF rat relative to lean controls. The results of this study suggest that early identification and treatment of T2D might reduce the skeletal complications associated with hyperglycemia and β‐cell dysfunction.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by the VA Career Development Award and the Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology at the University of Missouri.
Efficacy of a Novel Food Fortification System to Combat Vitamin D Deficiency in rats
Authors: ALMAJWAL ALI M , Abulmeaty Mahmoud , Andrade Juan
Published: November 2023

Background and aim of the work

Fortification of foodstuffs has proven effective in preventing micronutrient deficiencies. Dairy products are fortified in Saudi Arabia, but still vitamin D (VD) deficiency is highly prevalent. Therefore, development of sable and effective alternative micronutrient delivery technologies is required. The aim of this study is to test the efficacy of the novel vitamin D‐Nanoemulsion (VDN) developed by sonication and pH‐shifting of pea protein in vitamin D deficient rats.

Methods

A total number of 35 healthy adult male albino young rats were used. Rats shortly after weaning (3–4 weeks old, weight 78.70±10.2 g) were divided primarily into two groups: rats of the C group (n=7) were fed on normal balanced growth diet. The remaining rats (n=28) were fed on vitamin D‐deficient, normal calcium and phosphorus diet for 6 weeks. Vitamin D deficient rats were subdivided into: T1 group (n=7) which treated with vitamin D‐Nanoemulsion (3 ml of VDN containing 27 ug/ml VD3) for 1 week. T2 group (n=7) that treated with vitamin D3 in oil (3ml of 27 ug/ml VD3), C1 group (n=7) that treated with 3 ml of Nanoemulsion without VD, and C2 group (n=7) that treated with canola oil without vitamin D for 1 week. Plasma 25 hydroxy vitamin D3 (25OHVD), parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) levels and activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme were estimated and femur bone used to prepare histopathological sections. Image J software was used to measure the histomorphometric changes. Paired T test and ANOVA with post hoc test were used to test statistical significance.

Results

Significant increase of 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 after VDN treatment in T1 group (34.38±7.00 vs 14.65±1.29, P<0.01). Comparison of VDN with VD treated groups revealed significant changes of PTH, Ca, P, & LAP levels (25.22±14.26 vs 86.05±9.67, 9.64±0.60 vs 5.32±1.28, 3.65±0.71 vs1.33±0.32 & 72.37±30.97 vs 182.62±61.83, respectively). In addition, there was a significant improvement of osteoid area and reduction of trabecular separation of the bone sections.

Conclusions

Micronutrient delivery technologies such as VDN is a successful delivery system in improvement of bone status in vitamin D deficient rats. Further research should be conducted about the safety and possibility of use in human.

Support or Funding Information

The Project was funded by the National Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation (MAARIFAH), King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Award Number (12NAN2576‐02)
Consumption of S‐allylcysteine from garlic prevents ischemic injuries by augmentation of neovasculogenesis
Authors: Tang Feng‐Yao , Syu Jia‐Ning , Chiang En‐Pei Isabel
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies suggest that a low level of circulating human endothelial progenitor cells (hEPCs) is a risk factor of ischemic injuries and coronary artery disease (CAD). Consumption of S‐allylcysteine (SAC) is known to prevent CAD. However, the protective effects of SAC on the ischemic injuries are not yet clear.

Objective

We examined whether SAC could prevent ischemic injuries through EPC‐mediated neovasculogenesis.

Results

The results demonstrate that SAC significantly enhances the neovasculogenesis of hEPCs in vitro. The molecular mechanisms for SAC enhancement of neovasculogenesis include the activation of Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling cascades. SAC increased the expression of c‐kit, β‐catenin, cyclin D1 and CDK4 proteins in hEPCs. Daily intake of SAC at dosages of 0.2 and 2 mg/per kg body weight (BW) significantly enhanced c‐kit protein levels in vivo.

Conclusion

Dietary consumption of SAC prevents ischemic injuries by inducing neovasculogenesis in experimental models.
A Double‐Blind, Randomized Human Trial To Evaluate The Safety, Tolerability, And Host Response To Lactobacillus johnsonii N6.2
Authors: Lorca Graciela L , Marcial Guillermo G. , Ford Amanda L , Haller Michael J , Gonzalez Claudio F , Dahl Wendy J
Published: November 2023

Several human trials have successfully showed oral Lactobacillus supplementation alleviates symptoms of disorders ranging from asthma to irritable bowel syndrome. It is increasingly clear that the gut environment may play a central role in the development of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D); however, the use of bacteria to alleviate the onset of this disease has been restricted to studies in rodent models. To date, the ability of a Lactobacillus probiotic to prevent T1D onset in humans has not been evaluated. We isolated and characterized L. johnsonii N6.2, which mitigated the onset of T1D when administered to Biobreeding diabetes‐prone rats. We determined that L. johnsonii N6.2 alters the activity of intestinal indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase‐1 (IDO), correlating with a Th17 bias in the mesenteric lymph nodes of animals protected from T1D onset. Translating this work toward the prevention of T1D in humans required a pilot study in healthy individuals. We performed a human trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and general response to consumption of this microorganism in healthy individuals (n=42; F=30, M=12; 23.2±5.5 y). The 13‐week study was divided into three phases: 1‐week pre‐baseline, 8‐week intervention (1 capsule/d of L. johnsonii N6.2 at 1010 CFU or placebo), and 4‐week wash‐out. Blood and fecal samples were collected and analyzed throughout the study. Stool samples were plated to determine transit survival of L. johnsonii N6.2. The administration of the probiotic did not modify the hemogram and chemistry profiles of participants suggesting general safety. The levels of tryptophan metabolites were determined in serum throughout the study. It was found that in participants who consumed L. johnsonii, the serum levels of kynurenine were decreased while increased amounts of tryptophan were observed. These results are in agreement with observations in rodent models of T1D. The results obtained from this pilot study will provide a solid foundation for the approval of an investigation into prevention of T1D onset by L. johnsonii N6.2 consumption in an at‐risk human population.

Support or Funding Information

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
Sex Differences in the Relationships Between Body Composition and Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Hepatic Resection for Benign and Malignant Neoplasms
Authors: Tauscher Robert , Yin Wu , Idrees Kamran , Silver Heidi
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate relationships between skeletal muscle, visceral adipose, and subcutaneous adipose tissue on hospital length of stay (LOS), postoperative complications, ICU stay, and readmissions in male and female patients undergoing hepatic resection.

Methods

All patients undergoing hepatic resection at Vanderbilt University Medical Center between January 2006 and December 2013 were identified (N=449). Of these, only patients with a high‐quality image (low noise) from CT scan within 3 months prior to surgery were included (N=396). From CT, the L3 vertebra axial slice was analyzed for body composition using an automated version of Slice‐O‐Matic software. Images were corrected for attenuation errors by manual adjustments to assure complete quantification of tissues. Electronic medical record review was performed to acquire data for demographics, tumor characteristics, and outcome measures. Univariate and multivariate analyses evaluating potential predictive factors of short‐term outcomes were performed using SPSS version 23.

Results

Of the four body composition variables quantified – skeletal muscle area (SM), visceral adipose tissue area (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue area (SAT), and skeletal muscle attenuation (SMA) – having low VAT was significantly associated with worse short‐term outcomes in males. Specifically, low VAT was associated with longer hospital LOS (p=0.007), longer ICU LOS (p=0.01), more post‐operative complications (p=0.07), and more readmissions (p=0.008). Indeed, logistic regression analysis revealed that visceral adiposity is a strong and independent risk factor for ICU stay (p=0.04) and readmissions (p=0.01). Moreover, sex was a strong and independent prognostic factor of readmissions (p=0.002), with males having a greater likelihood of readmission than females. Interestingly, in females we found that low SMA (indicating fatty infiltration of muscle) was significantly associated with worse outcomes, specifically longer hospital LOS (p=0.03), longer ICU LOS (p=0.007), and more post‐operative complications (p=0.09).

Conclusions

Overall, the body composition component that was the most robust prognostic factor for adverse short‐term outcomes in patients undergoing hepatic resection was the amount of VAT. In males, increased VAT seems to be protective against adverse short‐term outcomes. However, in females, it appears that low SMA – a reflection of muscle quality – is more associated with adverse short‐term outcomes.
Dietary associations with breast density in women on adjuvant Tamoxifen therapy within the Diindolylmethane Efficacy (DIME) Study
Authors: Strom Meghan , Wertheim Betsy C , Thomson Cynthia A , Maskarinec Gertraud
Published: November 2023

Breast density (BD) describes the distribution of epithelial and connective versus fatty tissue; higher BD is a predictor of higher breast cancer risk. Tamoxifen (TAM) is a commonly prescribed anti‐estrogen adjuvant cancer treatment to reduce breast cancer risk, partially through modulation of breast density. Dietary components, including fiber, fat, and total energy intake, potentially influence BD. The relationship between dietary intake and BD in women prescribed TAM is not fully understood. We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis using baseline data collected from 130 pre‐ and post‐menopausal women taking TAM and enrolled in the Diindolylmethane Efficacy (DIME) Study. BD was measured from digital mammograms, and participants completed the Arizona Food Frequency Questionnaire to assess dietary intake. Mean BD was 25% ± 15%. Linear regression examining dietary exposures of intake and adjusted for age, time on TAM, menopausal status, and body mass index (BMI) indicated no significant association between BD and total energy intake. No other associations between dietary factors and BD were observed, including total fat, protein, and carbohydrate intake as well as intake of fiber, fruit, vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, and alcohol. Dietary intake shows little association with BD among women taking TAM therapy. Alternate preventive mechanisms for diet in women on TAM therapy should be investigated, including potential effects on estrogen and TAM metabolism.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI) funding under 1R01CA149417‐01A1 (Thomson‐PI) and the University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center Support grant funded by NIH‐NCI grant #CCSG‐CA023074 (Alberts‐PI).